Question from heavensabvus1
I would like to make sure that I understand the toxicity of the polyurethane that you would either brush on, or wipe on furniture, i.e., something like Minwax.
I believe I read here that the toxicity is in the solvents and once the polyurethane has cured that it is non-toxic.
So is it simply a matter of toxocity while it still smells and is curing and both would be inert once cured (which I think is 48 hours)?
Would that apply to both oil and water-based?
The only rub-on poly (for a hand rubbed look) I can find is oil-based. I do have good ventilation, can run air filters and even put it in a separate room while it cures, but I’m concerned about the difference after it cures (ongoing toxicity). Thanks.
Debra’s Answer
Yes, the toxicity of polyurethane is in the solvent, not the polyurethane itself, and once it dries both are nontoxic.
However, the oil-based solvents are VERY toxic and they do NOT dry in 48 hours. I do not recommend them.
Use the water-based with good ventilation. Water-based should dry in 48 hours.
