We all know that paint is a relatively inexpensive way to update a tired looking room. Most people put a lot of thought into choosing the right paint colour. They search out paint swatches and try paint samples on the wall. They also search for the right sheen for the area they are going to paint. But how many people think about the type of paint they buy and the chemicals in that paint that are harmful to you and your family?
Many paints contain Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). These chemicals are very toxic and can cause breathing problems (especially those with asthma), eye, nose, throat irritation and headaches. Long term exposure to high levels of VOCs can cause cancer.
Although studies show that most people who have short term exposure to low levels of VOCs found in homes may not be affected, there are still ongoing studies to determine the health effects of people with long term low exposure.
So with that in mind, I did some research and came up with the top 5 zero VOC paints; some I have personally used and others have good reviews. These paints come in the same trendy 2022 colours that will look great on your walls, but they do not contain VOCs and are low in toxins.
ECOS Paints
- Free of VOCs and other toxic chemicals
- Provides exceptional coverage
- Durable
- Can be used indoors or outdoors for a variety of projects.
- $37.95USD Based in USA ships worldwide. https://ecospaints.net
The Real Milk Paint Co.
- Non-toxic, environmentally friendly
- Sticks to raw wood, plaster, dry wall, stone, unsealed brick, and concrete
- No Primer need on raw wood and porous surfaces
- Sticks to latex with the addition of Ultra Bond Easy to use, water-based formula
- Does not contain radioactive Kaolin Clays as a filler
- Traditional colour palette, based on antique painted furniture
- Virtually no odour
- No residual odour after drying
- Dries fast
- $62.99 USD /Gallon. Based in USA but ships to many other countries. Canada: They have retailors in Quebec, Ontario and Alberta. https://www.realmilkpaint.com/
BEHR Premium Plus Interior Eggshell Enamel Paint & Primer - Ultra Pure White
- Self-Priming: Seals uncoated and previously painted Surfaces
- Low Odour, Zero VOC
- Suitable for active households; Resists dirt and grime; Soft, velvety appearance
- Exceptional hide and ultimate durability
- 100% Acrylic
- Mildew Resistant Finish. Improves the air quality in your home.
- $43.97 CAD /3.79L Home Depot Canada.homedepot.ca
Benjamin Moore Eco Spec WB Paint – Eggshell
- Zero VOCs and zero emissions
- Low odour
- Excellent touch-up
- 100% Acrylic
- Quick-drying for same-day return to service
- Spatter-resistant
- CERTIFIED Asthma & allergy friendly*
- Green Seal Certified
- Engineered with Gennex® Colour Technology
- For a Benjamin Moore location near you search: Independent, Local, Expert Retailers | Benjamin Moore
- $52.00 Toronto Paint Store paintstoretoronto.com
*The CERTIFIED ASTHMA & ALLERGY FRIENDLY Mark is a Registered Certification Mark of the ASTHMA AND ALLERGY FOUNDATION OF CANADA and ALLERGY STANDARDS LTD.
Glidden EP1C: One Coat Hide Interior Eggshell Paint and Primer in White Base
- Zero VOC
- Low odour paint
- 100% acrylic paint with primer provides extreme durability
- Ideal paint for use in bedrooms, dining rooms, hallways, home offices and family rooms
- A smooth, scrubbable and washable finish with a subtle shine
- Outstanding scrubability, washability, and stain resistance
- 400 one-coat guaranteed paint colours
- Interior paint built for easy clean-up with soap and water
- $43.97 CAD/3.66L. Home Depot Canada. homedepot.ca
Next time you are planning to paint a room why not try one of the recommended paints and see if any of them are right for you.