by michael daigle · 9 Jan 2024Have you ever thought much about the paint you use in your home? What's in that can of color, and how does it really affect the air you breathe? The truth is, many common house paints contain chemicals called volatile organic compounds or VOCs that release harmful fumes, even long after the paint dries. Those fumes you smell aren't just unpleasant—they can pose serious health hazards, especially if you have respiratory issues or young children at home.
The good news is, it's easier than ever to choose paints with low or no VOCs. And you don't have to sacrifice quality or color selection, either. In this article, we'll explore your options for healthier, more eco-friendly paint and where to find them. We'll also share some tips for improving ventilation and limiting exposure when you do paint. Your home should be a safe haven, so take a few minutes to make sure the colors you choose won't compromise the air inside. The planet and your family will thank you. It's worth breathing easy!
The Importance of Indoor Air Quality
The air inside your home can be more polluted than outside air. Choosing low-VOC and non-toxic paints is one of the best ways to improve your indoor air quality and your family’s health.
The Dangers of VOCs
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chemicals found in many paints that release harmful fumes. These fumes contain carcinogens and can cause headaches, dizziness, and long-term health issues. Look for paints labeled “low-VOC” or “no-VOC” to avoid these risks.
- Water-based paints like latex and acrylic paints typically have lower VOCs than oil-based paints. They’re a great eco-friendly option.
- Milk paint and chalk paint are popular VOC-free choices. They provide great coverage and a smooth finish without the fumes.
- For the best indoor air quality, consider paints with no added formaldehyde, acetaldehyde or crystalline silica. These chemicals can irritate eyes, nose and throat in the short term, and cause cancer over time.
Other Considerations
Aside from VOCs, check if the paint contains toxic heavy metals like lead, mercury or cadmium, which can contribute to health issues. Paints labeled “eco-friendly,” “green,” or “sustainable” are good options, but check the specifics to ensure they are non-toxic and VOC-free.
Using a paint with low or no VOCs, toxic chemicals and pollutants will help ensure clean indoor air and a safe environment for your family. Your home should be a place where you feel comfortable and at ease — choose paints that won’t compromise your health or peace of mind.
How Traditional Paint Impacts Indoor Air Quality
Traditional paints off-gas volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that pollute the air in your home. VOCs like formaldehyde, benzene, and acetone evaporate as the paint dries and can linger for years after application.
How VOCs Impact Your Health
Breathing in VOCs day after day can lead to headaches, dizziness, and respiratory issues. More seriously, exposure to high concentrations of certain VOCs may cause cancer or damage to the central nervous system, liver, and kidneys.
Children, elderly, and people with respiratory diseases are especially vulnerable to the effects of VOCs. Even low levels of exposure over long periods of time may cause lasting harm.
The Problem with Latex and Oil-Based Paints
Latex and oil-based paints, commonly used for interior home painting projects, are two of the worst offenders for high VOC levels and off-gassing toxic fumes. Both types can continue emitting VOCs for up to five years after application.
There are now many low-VOC and zero-VOC options available that provide good coverage and durability without the air pollution. These eco-friendly paints are made of natural materials and emit little to no VOCs, so you can breathe easy and enjoy your newly painted space right away without adverse health effects.
Choosing paints with low or no VOCs and toxic chemicals is one of the best things you can do for the indoor air quality and health of your home. Your lungs and the planet will thank you.
What Are VOCs and Why Do They Matter?
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chemicals that release gasses into the air, often called off-gassing. They are commonly found in paints, stains, and other building materials. Many VOCs are known carcinogens and respiratory irritants.
When painting indoors, VOCs are released as the paint dries and for some time afterwards. They can cause headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Infants, children, pregnant women and the elderly are especially at risk. High concentrations may lead to organ damage over time. It's best to choose low-VOC and VOC-free options whenever possible.
- VOCs include chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene, and acetone. They are used as solvents and to improve the properties of paint.
- "Low-VOC" or "no-VOC" paints have little to no VOCs, using water as the main solvent and ingredient instead of harsh chemicals. They still provide good coverage and durability.
- Air out the room well during and after painting. Ventilate the area and consider using fans and an air purifier with a HEPA filter to remove VOCs from the air.
- Water-based or latex paints typically have lower VOCs than oil-based paints. They are a good eco-friendly choice.
- Check the specifications to find the VOC levels, listed in grams per liter. The lower the better - under 50 g/L is a good target. Some brands offer paints with 5 g/L or less.
- Consider natural, plant-based paints made from ingredients like citrus, linseed, or mineral oils and waxes. They have zero VOCs and a subtle natural finish.
Choosing low-VOC and non-toxic paint is an easy way to improve the air quality in your home and create a healthier environment for your family. While any paint will release some VOCs, limiting exposure as much as possible is best. When selecting paints, check the specifications and consider how sensitive the room occupants may be. Your home is worth the investment in clean, green materials.
Identifying Low and Zero VOC Paint Options
When choosing paint for your home, considering the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and toxicity is important for health and indoor air quality. Many paints release VOCs that can cause headaches, dizziness, and other issues. The good news is there are low and zero-VOC options available.
Low VOC Paints
Low VOC paints have less than 50 grams of VOCs per liter. Major brands like Benjamin Moore, Sherwin Williams and Behr all offer quality low VOC paints. These are a good compromise if you want an affordable, low-odor option. Popular choices include:
- Benjamin Moore Aura Interior Paint: VOC of 0-49 g/L, low odor and good coverage.
- Sherwin Williams Duration Home Interior Acrylic Latex: 0-49 g/L VOCs, durable and washable.
- Behr Premium Plus Interior Paint: 0-49 g/L VOCs, budget-friendly and scrubbable.
Zero VOC Paints
For the best indoor air quality, choose a paint with zero VOCs. These are slightly more expensive but have virtually no odor or toxic fumes. Some highly-rated zero VOC options are:
- Benjamin Moore Natura Interior Paint: Zero VOCs, no toxic fumes and excellent coverage.
- Sherwin Williams Emerald Interior Acrylic Latex Paint: Zero VOCs, extremely durable and washable with an elegant finish.
- Behr Marquee Interior Paint: Zero VOCs, exceptional coverage and scrubbability.
When shopping for paint, check the specifications to find the exact VOC levels. Any paint with zero or less than 50 g/L is a safe, eco-friendly choice. Choosing a low or no VOC paint, especially if you have children, pets or health issues, will provide peace of mind that you’re creating a healthy home environment. Your lungs and the planet will thank you!
Other Toxic Ingredients to Avoid in Paint
In addition to VOCs, there are other concerning chemicals found in some paints. Watch out for these toxic ingredients and choose paints free from them when possible.
Phthalates
Phthalates are plasticizers added to paint to increase flexibility and durability. However, they have been linked to health issues like asthma, ADHD, and reproductive problems. Look for “phthalate-free” on paint labels or check with the manufacturer.
Isothiazolinones
Isothiazolinones are biocides used as preservatives in paint and other products. They can cause allergic reactions, skin irritation, and respiratory issues in some people. Seek out paints labeled “isothiazolinone-free” or with “no added preservatives.”
Lead
Lead was once commonly added to paint before being banned. Older homes may still have lead-based paint, which can pose serious health hazards especially to children. Always test for lead before renovating or disturbing old paint. For new paint, check that the label clearly states “no lead” or “lead-free.”
Mercury
Some paints contain mercury as a preservative and fungicide. Mercury exposure is toxic and can cause neurological damage, especially in children and pregnant women. Choose paints specifically labeled as “mercury-free” and avoid any that list “phenylmercuric acetate” or “PMA” as an ingredient.
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is used as a preservative and disinfectant in some paints and coatings. It releases toxic fumes that can cause eye, nose and throat irritation, and may lead to more serious effects like asthma or cancer. Seek out paints that are “formaldehyde-free” or with “no added formaldehyde.”
By avoiding paints with these harmful chemicals, you'll be creating a healthier environment in your home and reducing health risks for yourself and your family.
Top 3 Tips for Choosing Healthy, Non-Toxic Paint
When choosing paint for your home, opt for options that are low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and non-toxic. Your health and the health of your family depend on it. Here are some tips to help you pick the healthiest paint for your space:
Check the VOC Level
Look for paint with low or zero VOCs. VOCs are chemical emissions that can cause headaches, dizziness, and other issues. Paints labeled “low-VOC” or “no-VOC” are your best options.
Choose a Trusted, Eco-Friendly Brand
Some highly-rated, environmentally-friendly paint brands are Sherwin Williams Harmony, Benjamin Moore Natura, and EarthPaint. These brands focus on using natural, sustainable ingredients with little or no VOCs or toxic chemicals.
Consider Water-Based Options
Water-based or latex paints are a great non-toxic choice. They have very low odor and fast dry times. Latex paint is also easy to clean up with just soap and water. Oil-based paints, on the other hand, have strong fumes and require the use of harsh solvents for cleanup.
By following these tips when choosing paint for your home, you'll end up with an end result that is not only beautiful but also safe and healthy for you and your family. Your home should be a sanctuary, so do what you can to minimize exposure to toxic chemicals and pollutants. Low-VOC, eco-friendly paint is an easy place to start creating a home environment that promotes health and wellness.
The Best Low VOC and Natural Paint Brands
When it comes to low-VOC and natural paint brands, you have several great options to choose from. These brands are dedicated to providing eco-friendly and non-toxic paints for your home.
Benjamin Moore Natura Paint
Benjamin Moore's Natura paint line is one of the best low-VOC choices. Made from renewable plant materials and recycled plastic bottles, Natura paint is Greenguard Gold certified, meaning it meets strict standards for low chemical emissions. With zero VOCs, it's a safe option if you have chemical sensitivities or want to avoid indoor air pollution.
Sherwin Williams Duration Home
For a budget-friendly low-VOC choice, consider Sherwin Williams Duration Home. This latex paint line has low odor and under 50 grams per liter of VOCs, meeting LEED and Greenguard standards. It provides great coverage and durability. The brand also offers Harmony, an zero-VOC interior paint.
Clare Paint
Clare Paint is an eco-friendly brand that offers paints with zero VOCs, formaldehydes, and other harmful chemicals. Their paints are made from natural and recycled materials, and come in a variety of sheens for walls, trim, ceilings and cabinets. While a bit pricier, Clare Paint is a great option if you have environmental or health concerns.
ECOS Paints
ECOS Paints specializes in zero-VOC paints made from renewable plant-based materials. Their paints come in vibrant colors and different sheens, from flat to semi-gloss. ECOS also offers natural wood stains, sealers and floor coatings. All of their products are certified cruelty-free, vegan and meet the strictest green building standards.
The Real Milk Paint Co.
For a natural paint option, check out The Real Milk Paint Co. As the name suggests, their paints are made from milk protein, lime and natural pigments. The paints have zero VOCs, harsh chemicals and plasticizers, and provide a durable, velvety matte finish. Milk paint is a great choice if you want an organic, sustainable product for your home.
Painting With Low VOC Paints - Safety Tips
When painting indoors, it’s important to consider the air quality and fumes that paint can emit, especially if you have children, pets or respiratory issues. Choosing low-VOC and non-toxic paints is the best way to ensure good indoor air quality during and after your paint project.
Look for “low-VOC” or “no-VOC” on the label
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are toxic chemicals found in many paints that are released as gasses, polluting the air. Seek out paints labeled as “low-VOC” or “no-VOC” to minimize these fumes. These eco-friendly paints are just as durable and vibrant as regular paint.
Ventilate and wear a mask
Even with low-VOC paint, ventilation is key. Open doors and windows to keep air circulating. Run an exhaust fan to vent fumes outside. Wearing a mask, especially when painting overhead or in an enclosed space, will prevent inhalation of any chemicals. Take breaks to go outside for fresh air.
Wash hands and seal cans
Carefully seal any paint cans when not in use and thoroughly wash hands after painting before touching door knobs, electronics or anything else. This prevents the transfer of chemicals to surfaces.
Keep pets and kids away
Until the paint is fully dried, keep pets, kids and anyone with respiratory issues out of the space. Fumes can irritate airways and may be toxic if inhaled in large amounts, especially for small animals and children.
Dispose of waste properly
Never pour excess paint down the drain. Let paint dry completely in the can or on disposable trays before throwing in the trash according to local regulations. Rinse brushes with water instead of solvents when using latex or water-based paints.
By choosing safer paint options and taking some basic precautions, you can paint your home confidently while also protecting your indoor air quality. Freshly painted rooms should not compromise your health or the environment. Following these eco-friendly painting tips will help you breathe easy in your newly decorated space.
Frequently Asked Questions on Paint and Indoor Air Quality
- What are VOCs and why do they matter?
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chemicals that release gasses into the air. Many paints, stains and varnishes contain VOCs that can pollute indoor air quality. Choosing low-VOC or no-VOC paints helps ensure good indoor air quality and health.
- What health issues are linked to VOC exposure?
VOCs have been associated with eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches, loss of coordination, nausea, and damage to the liver, kidneys and central nervous system. Some VOCs are known carcinogens. Minimizing exposure is especially important for children, elderly and pregnant women.
- How do I know if a paint is low-VOC or no-VOC?
Check the product specifications or technical data sheet. Low-VOC paints have less than 50 grams per liter of VOCs. No-VOC or zero-VOC paints have 5 grams per liter or less. Natural, organic paints labeled as “eco-friendly” or “green” also typically have little to no VOCs.
- What are good low-VOC and no-VOC paint options?
Popular low-VOC and no-VOC paint brands include Benjamin Moore Natura, Sherwin Williams Harmony, Behr Premium Plus Ultra and Valspar Signature. Milk paint, clay paints, limewashes and mineral paints are natural options with zero VOCs. For the lowest VOCs, choose water-based latex or acrylic paints over oil-based options.
- Will low-VOC or no-VOC paint cost more?
Eco-friendly paints are often slightly more expensive upfront. However, they provide savings in reduced health costs and environmental impact. Many stores now offer sales and discounts on green paint products. Check for coupons and shop sales to find the best deals.
- How else can I improve indoor air quality when painting?
Ventilate well by opening windows. Run an exhaust fan to remove fumes and gasses. Consider wearing a respirator mask, especially if you're painting in an unventilated space. Seal any leftover paint before storing to prevent off-gassing. Once done painting, ventilate the room for at least two days before occupancy. These steps will help ensure good indoor air quality in your home.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, the lowdown on paint and air quality in your home. As you've learned, the chemicals in paint can have a big impact on the air you breathe every day. Now that you're armed with information about VOCs, toxicity, and eco-friendly options, you can make the best choice for your home and health. Pick paints with low or no VOCs and avoid the toxic stuff. Your lungs and the planet will thank you. And when you open that first can of fresh paint, you'll breathe easy knowing you're making your space safer and more sustainable. Sweet smell of success! You've got this. Make your house a home - the healthy way.