Every situation is different, so there is no hard and fast rule. In general, the more time you give it to work, the better. Repeated application over a period of days is most effective. The application of heat will accelerate the process. 

Time and ventilation are your greatest allies. The ingredients that cause the odor are volatile (which is a fancy way of saying they evaporate easily at normal temperatures), and the odor will decrease over time as part of that process. 

To speed up the process, you can remove as much of the excess PB as possible with hot water and grease-cutting dishwashing detergent. For fabrics, baking soda or powdered carpet fresheners may help. 

You can also help the volatiles evaporate more quickly through the application of heat (by a hairdryer for instance). 

PB will not affect a factory-quality finish. Lower quality re-paints may be affected. We recommend testing on an inconspicuous area before using PB around such a finish. 

PB B'laster is safe on all metals, including brass, copper, aluminum, etc. 

It depends on the density of the rubber or plastic. Low density (flimsy) rubbers and plastics will deteriorate from long-term exposure to PB. Higher density rubbers and plastics may have some surface softening, but this will not affect its structural integrity. 

PB B'laster is safe for use on your firearms. It does well at cleaning and also leaves behind a petroleum oil that lubricates and protects from corrosion. However, hunters have claimed that deer will smell it "a mile away." 

For clean-up we recommend a simple solution of dish soap and water.

No, PB B'laster Penetrant does not contain silicone.

Yes, PB B'laster Penetrant does not contain silicone and is therefore safe for use in body / paint shop environments.

The actual liquid is considered Combustible by the CPSC, OSHA and the DOT. The CPSC requires that our aerosol labels state "Flammable" because of the possibility that the liquid contents could be atomized. This product has a flashpoint (the temperature at which the liquid will start to emit a flammable vapor) of 150º Fahrenheit. Caution should be used when applying to hot surfaces, especially with a source of ignition present. With small amounts, used in well ventilated areas, it is unlikely that vapors would accumulate in enough concentration to cause great concern.

No, PB B'laster Penetrant is formulated specifically to be a rust penetrant.  However, it may help with the physical removal of flash rust.