by michael daigle · 9 Jan 2024So you're getting ready to paint your child's room and want to make sure you choose colors and paints that are safe, fun and inspiring. As a parent, your top priority is your little one's health and well-being. The last thing you want is for them to be exposed to harsh chemicals or odors. At the same time, you want their space to spark their imagination and support their development.
Selecting the right paint involves considering both the type of paint as well as the colors. When it comes to paint type, always choose a zero or low VOC paint. VOC stands for volatile organic compounds, and these are the chemicals that give off that strong 'fresh paint' smell. For children's rooms, low or no VOC paint is non-negotiable. As for colors, think about your child's age and interests. Choose colors that will stimulate their senses and encourage creativity and learning. With some thought, you can create a space they will enjoy for years to come.
Choosing Safe Paints for Kids' Rooms
When it comes to choosing paint for a child's room, safety should be your top priority. Look for paints labeled "low-VOC" or "no-VOC," which have little to no volatile organic compounds that can be harmful. Water-based latex or acrylic paints are good options. They're non-toxic, odorless, and easy to clean up.
Avoid oil-based paints, as they contain harsh solvents and strong odors that can irritate children's respiratory systems. Also steer clear of paints with antimicrobial additives, which often contain toxic heavy metals like silver. For the best indoor air quality, choose a paint certified by Green Seal or another third-party organization.
Once you've found a safe paint, think about the psychology of color and how it might affect your child. Blues and greens are calming, reds and oranges stimulate creativity. Bright colors like yellow spark energy and cheerfulness. So choose a color that fits the mood you want for the space.
For toddlers, avoid paints with a sheen or glossy finish which shows marks and stains more easily. An eggshell or satin sheen provides a wipeable surface without too much glare. Older kids will appreciate more durable paints so their creative works of art can be easily displayed.
With low-VOC, kid-friendly paint and some thought about color, you'll end up with a perfect space for your little one to learn and grow. Their health, safety, and happiness are worth the investment.
Lead-Free Paint Options to Consider
When it comes to painting a child's room, safety should be your top priority. Lead-free paint is essential for kids' spaces. Here are some of the best options to consider:
Water-based latex or acrylic paint is a great lead-free choice. It's low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can irritate little lungs. Latex paint is also durable and washable, perfect for kids' rooms.
Milk paint is a natural, eco-friendly alternative that's non-toxic and chemical-free. Made from lime, milk protein, and pigments, milk paint is very durable and washable. It does have a slight odor as it dries, so keep the room well-ventilated.
Zero-VOC paint is just what it sounds like - paint with no volatile organic compounds that can be irritating or toxic. Major brands like Benjamin Moore, Sherwin Williams and Behr all offer high-quality zero-VOC paint in a variety of sheens. For the most peace of mind, look for a label that says "no VOCs" or "zero emissions".
Chalk paint is popular for creating a rustic, distressed look, but many brands also offer chalkboard paint. Either type should be lead-free and low-VOC, but double check to be sure. Chalkboard paint allows kids to draw and erase to their heart's content. Just be sure to seal the walls when done to prevent dust.
The color you choose is also important for a child's wellbeing. Bright, cheerful hues like light blue, green and yellow can improve mood and cognition. Stay away from dark, intense shades which may be overstimulating. Keep the overall color scheme light, bright and fun for a kid-friendly space. Their health and safety should be the top priority when selecting paints and colors for a children's room.
Low-Voc Paints for Better Indoor Air Quality
When selecting paint for a child's room, opt for low-VOC or no-VOC paint. VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, are chemicals that release gasses into the air, potentially irritating the eyes, nose and throat, causing headaches and even more serious issues. Children are especially vulnerable to the effects of VOCs.
Low-VOC or no-VOC paints contain little to no VOCs, producing hardly any odor and creating a healthier environment. Many major paint brands now offer low-VOC and no-VOC options in a variety of sheens. Look for labels that say “low-VOC,” “no-VOC,” “zero-VOC” or “eco-friendly.”
In addition to low or no VOCs, choose a paint that is specifically meant for use in children's rooms or playrooms. These are non-toxic, kid-friendly and easy to clean. Some are even resistant to stains, scratches and marks from crayons or markers. For the ceilings and trim, opt for paints designated as “washable” or “scrubbable.”
When painting the room, be sure to ventilate well by opening windows and using fans to pull fumes out of the space. It's also a good idea for children and pets to avoid the room during and after painting until the smell dissipates and the paint is fully dry.
Consider the psychology of colors when picking shades for a child's room. Blues and greens are calming, while bright warm colors like red, orange and yellow are stimulating. Pair complementary colors like blue and orange or green and red for visual contrast. Let your child help choose colors they love to make the room feel like their own special space.
Keeping indoor air quality and the wellbeing of children in mind when selecting paints and colors for their rooms will create a space that is healthy, happy and perfect for growing and learning. By taking these extra steps, you'll have peace of mind knowing your child's room is safe, secure and built to last.
The Importance of Proper Ventilation During and After Painting
Proper ventilation is essential when painting a child's room. The fumes from paint, primer, and solvents can be hazardous, especially for little ones. Keep the following tips in mind to ensure the space is well-ventilated and the air is clear before letting kids back in the room.
- Open windows and use fans to pull fumes out. Run an exhaust fan to vent air outside, and place fans in windows to blow air out. Keep windows open for at least 2-3 days after painting.
- Consider wearing a mask. Painter's masks or respirators can filter out paint fumes and other VOCs (volatile organic compounds). Have kids wear one too if they go near the room.
- Don't paint when kids are home. If possible, do painting projects when children are out of the house at school or activities. That way fumes have more time to dissipate before they return home.
- Keep the door closed. While painting and as fumes are airing out, keep the door to the room closed to prevent fumes from spreading to other areas of the home.
- Air purifiers can help. An air purifier with a HEPA filter placed in the room can help reduce fumes and provide clean air circulation. Run it during and after painting.
- Zero- or low-VOC paints have fewer fumes. Choose paints labeled "zero-VOC" or "low-VOC" which contain little or no volatile organic compounds. They produce fewer fumes than regular paint.
- Consider an air quality monitor. An indoor air monitor can track VOCs and other pollutants to let you know when air quality levels have returned to normal safe ranges before re-occupying the space.
By taking the proper safety precautions and allowing adequate time for paint fumes to ventilate, you can complete your project with the peace of mind that the air will be clean and safe for kids when done. Their health and safety should be the top priority.
Paint Finish Options: Flat, Eggshell, Satin or Semi-Gloss?
When it comes to paint finish, you’ll want to consider several options for a child’s room. The finish determines how much light the paint absorbs or reflects, which affects the appearance and durability. For kids’ rooms, flat, eggshell or satin paints are good choices.
Flat Paint
Flat paint has no sheen and absorbs light, giving walls a matte look. It hides imperfections well but stains easily and is hard to clean. For kids’ rooms, flat paint may not withstand the wear and tear. However, it is a good choice if you want to create a chalkboard effect on one wall. The matte finish provides an ideal surface for chalk.
Eggshell Paint
Eggshell paint has a soft, velvety sheen that reflects little light. It resists stains better than flat paint and is easier to clean. Eggshell paint is a great all-purpose choice for kids’ rooms, providing an attractive finish that stands up well to washing and scrubbing marks off walls.
Satin Paint
Satin paint has a medium luster that provides a durable and scrubbable finish. It reflects more light than eggshell, resulting in a shinier look. Satin paint works well for trim and accents but may show imperfections on walls. For kids’ rooms, satin is a good option if you want an easy-to-clean finish for high-traffic, stain-prone areas.
In the end, the best paint finish for a child’s room depends on your priorities. Flat paint creates a chalkboard wall and hides flaws but stains easily. Eggshell resists stains well and has an attractive luster. Satin provides a highly durable and washable finish but may accentuate imperfections. By weighing the pros and cons of each, you can choose a paint that suits both your needs and your little one’s activity level.
Using Color Psychology to Pick the Right Hues
The colors you choose for a child's room can have a big impact on their mood and development. Using color psychology when picking hues is a great way to create a stimulating yet calming space for kids.
Blues
Blue is a naturally calming color and ideal for a child's space. Shades like sky blue or baby blue create a peaceful ambiance perfect for sleeping. Deeper blues can also work well and provide contrast in a room. Just avoid very dark, dramatic blues which can feel depressing.
Greens
Nature-inspired greens, like sage or mint, give a refreshing feel and help connect children to the outdoors. Brighter greens in small doses, such as on an accent wall, add energy to a room without being overstimulating. However, avoid olive and forest greens which tend to feel dull and dreary.
Yellows
Cheerful yellows inspire creativity and optimism. A pale yellow works well for walls and helps make a space feel warm and bright. More vibrant yellows, such as sunflower or dandelion, can be used for accents like pillows, rugs, or storage bins. But limit intense yellows since they may become distracting over long periods of time.
Oranges
Like yellow, orange evokes excitement and creativity in children. Tangerine or peach create an upbeat yet cozy feel when used on walls. For accents, brighter oranges such as persimmon or clementine add a fun pop of color. However, too much bright orange can feel chaotic and distracting, so use it sparingly.
By understanding how different hues influence a child's developing mind and mood, you can create a perfect space for learning, playing, and rest. Using a balanced combination of calming and stimulating colors, with brighter shades in moderation, will give you a room your child will love for years to come.
Recommended Paint Colors for Energizing Kids
When it comes to painting a child's room, safety should be a top priority. Look for low- or no-VOC paints that are specifically meant for use in children's rooms or play areas. These paints release little or no volatile organic compounds that can be irritating or toxic. Popular brands like Benjamin Moore, Sherwin Williams and Behr all offer quality low-VOC paint lines.
- Cheerful Colors
For an energizing space that will uplift your child's mood, consider bright, cheerful colors like:
- Yellow - Associated with happiness, warmth and creativity. Yellow paint creates an upbeat, cheerful space.
- Orange - A vibrant, energetic color linked to adventure, excitement and positivity.
- Red - A bold, stimulating color associated with passion, love and motivation.
- Calming Colors
If your child struggles with overstimulation or has a hard time settling down at night, calming colors may be a better choice. Some soothing options include:
- Blue - A peaceful, tranquil color associated with calmness, stability and focus.
- Green - A refreshing, natural color linked to balance, harmony and restoration.
- Lavender - A soft, dreamy color associated with calm, relaxation and imagination.
- Accent Walls
For visual interest, consider painting one wall in a room as an accent wall in a bolder color, then paint the remaining walls in a more neutral tone. The contrast will make the accent wall the focal point of the room. Kids will love the pop of color, and you can easily change the look by repainting the accent wall in a new favorite shade.
By choosing paints specifically meant for children's spaces and using colors known to have a positive psychological impact, you'll create an area your child will enjoy for years to come. After all, their safety, health and happiness should be top concerns. The rewards of your thoughtful choices will make the effort well worth it.
Soothing Paint Colors to Help Kids Relax
Soothing paint colors can help create a relaxing space for children. Staying away from bright, stimulating hues is key. Some ideal options include:
Pale blues
Light shades of blue, like powder blue or sky blue, have a calming effect. Blue is associated with tranquility and peacefulness. These pale blues work well for walls or as an accent wall.
muted greens
Sage green, seafoam green, or mint green also make wonderful choices for a child’s room. Green represents nature and renewal, with muted green tones being particularly soothing. They create a fresh, natural feel without being too vibrant.
Warm neutrals
Soft tans, beiges and warm grays make cozy, soothing spaces. Neutral walls provide a blank canvas that can be brought to life with colorful bedding, rugs, mobiles and other decor. The natural, earthy feel of these neutrals cultivates comfort and relaxation.
Pastel purples
Delicate shades of lavender, plum or violet can also be quite calming for little ones. Purple is associated with imagination and creativity. Pale purples, especially lavender, evoke feelings of tranquility and peace.
When choosing paint for a child’s room, also consider:
•Zero or low VOC (volatile organic compounds) paint. These release fewer harsh chemicals and odors, better for little lungs.
•Matte or eggshell sheen. These have little or no gloss, avoiding harsh reflections. Satin or semi-gloss can work for trim and doors.
•Primer. For the best coverage in fewer coats, use a primer, especially when going over dark walls. Let each coat dry as directed before adding the next.
•Color psychology. The colors you choose can influence your child’s mood and behavior. Soothing, natural-inspired hues are usually a safe bet for a calm, relaxing space.
•Your child’s input. If old enough, ask your child for color suggestions to give them a sense of control in their own space. Provide color swatches or samples to choose from based on the principles here. Their favorite color could be an accent wall, bedding or rug.
With the proper paint colors and sheen, you can create an oasis of serenity and comfort for your little one to enjoy for years to come. Sweet dreams!
Frequently Asked Questions About Painting Kids' Rooms
Will the paint fumes be harmful to my child?
The fumes from latex or acrylic paints are typically not harmful, but the smell can be unpleasant. Ventilate the room well by opening windows and using an exhaust fan. Low- or no-VOC paints release fewer fumes. For extra safety, consider a paint with an EPA certification like Green Seal. Once the paint is dry, the smell will fade quickly.
How can I make the room cheerful and bright?
For a cheerful space, choose a light, bright color palette with whites, creams and pastels. Add colorful accents with bedding, rugs, or wall decals. A coat of glossy paint will reflect more light. Consider a colorful accent wall or painted shapes, stripes or polka dots. Lots of natural light also helps create a bright, happy space.
What are good color choices for a child's room?
Colors that stimulate a child's imagination and creativity are always a great choice. Think vibrant primary colors like red, blue and yellow or fun brights like orange, green and purple. For a more gender-neutral space, consider light grays, tans or seafoam greens. Let your child help pick colors they love - it will make the room feel more personal and fun.
How can I make the room feel cozy?
For a cozy space, choose a warm color palette of browns, tans and terra cottas. Add plush bedding, rugs, pillows and a comfortable reading nook. Paint the ceiling a darker shade than the walls for a cozy cocoon feel. Add string lights or a dim lamp for ambient lighting. A few decorative touches like framed art or family photos also make a space feel cozy and welcoming.
Will the paint be durable enough for a child's room?
Most interior latex or acrylic paints today are very durable and scrubbable, perfect for a kid's space. For high-traffic or high-wear areas, consider a paint with a satin or semi-gloss sheen, which is more stain-resistant than a flat paint. For the trim and doors, use a glossier paint that can stand up well to repeated washing. With an additional topcoat of polyurethane, even flat paint can become quite durable.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it - a few tips for picking paint colors for your little one's room that don't compromise on safety or style. Choosing a color palette that soothes and nurtures their development is worth the extra effort. Your child's room is their space to feel cozy, stimulated, and able to freely express themselves. With all the options out there now for low-VOC and eco-friendly paints, you can have peace of mind and let your child's imagination run wild within those four walls. While they're creating childhood memories that will last a lifetime, you'll be creating a safe space that gives them room to grow into creative, independent spirits. What more could you ask for as a parent? Sweet dreams!