Linseed Oil-Impregnated Rags Pose Fire Risk

Linseed oil is a common choice for protecting wood, particularly outdoor furniture, as it seals pores and repels water. However, Aktion Das Sichere Haus (DSH), based in Hamburg, warns that rags soaked in linseed oil can easily ignite.

"When linseed oil reacts with oxygen in the air, heat is generated," explains DSH Managing Director Dr. Susanne Woelk. This heat can accumulate in textiles, such as cleaning rags, potentially leading to spontaneous combustion.

DSH advises that rags saturated with linseed oil should only be stored in securely closed screw-top jars or other non-combustible, airtight containers. Rags that are no longer needed should be dried on a non-flammable surface before being disposed of in an airtight container.

For cleaning brushes, linseed soap is recommended as a safer alternative that does not carry the same ignition risk.