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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/wood-rags-oils

CPSC warns that rags soiled with which oils can heat up and ignite?

Linseed and tung oil.

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  1. Linseed and tung oil ✔
  2. Water and soap
  3. Silicone and graphite

Why: Drying oils such as linseed and tung oil give off heat as they dry. A pile of rags can trap that heat and ignite. CPSC says a soiled towel, heat and air together can start a fire.

Huh, didn't know that: CPSC's 1992 warning also covered cloths soaked with ordinary vegetable cooking oil.

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References

Answer: Linseed and tung oil. Drying oils such as linseed and tung oil give off heat as they dry. A pile of rags can trap that heat and ignite. CPSC says a soiled towel, heat and air together can start a fire.

  1. CPSC Hidden Hazard In The Home: Cloths Soiled With Vegetable Oil www.cpsc.gov/Newsroom/News-Releases/1992/Hidden-Hazard-In-The-Home-Cloths-Heavily-Soiled-With-Vegetable-Oil-Can-Start-Fires
    chemically unsaturated oils, such as linseed oil and tung oil
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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