How to Safely Store Linseed Oil Rags for Reuse

Heat is generated from linseed oil as it dries. If this heat is concentrated on balled-up rags, it can not dissipate and may spontaneously combust. Oil on rags becomes fuel for flames. "And given the right atmosphere, the right amount of ventilation, [linseed oil] does self ignite. So that makes it extremely dangerous." says Chief Dennis Rubin, of the Washington, D.C., Fire and EMS. It is important to keep linseed oil rags from reaching the flash point that causes fire. They need to be treated as a possible fire hazard.

Things You'll Need

• Cinder block
• Trash can
• Air-tight container

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Hang rags over a cinder block or on the edge of a trash can to dry. This keeps linseed oil soaked cloths from heating up.

   • 2

     Spread rags out on a cement or other noncombustible surface to dry. After they are dried, they need to be stored in a safe metal container.

   • 3

     Soak rags in water and store in an air-tight can.

   • 4

     Keep air-tight containers away from heat.