Why is Non-Toxic Paint So Important?

There are serious health and environmental concerns surrounding paint. Using paints that are free of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) such as benzene and toluene, free of heavy metals such as lead or cadmium, and/or made of post-consumer recycled content can aid in reducing exposure to toxics both for you and your environment.

The potent smell of fresh paint actually comes from the vapors released from the toxic ingredients used as solvents in conventional paints known as VOCs. While there is considerable range in the toxicity of VOCs, many are known carcinogens and neurotoxins; exposure to most VOCs can also exacerbate asthma as well as eye, nose, throat, and skin irritations, and can induce headaches, dizziness, respiratory problems, and even liver and kidney disease. VOCs are also environmentally destructive, as they contribute to ground level ozone (smog), indoor air pollution, and the tainting of groundwater during the wearing process. Fortunately, paints with reduced levels of VOCs or even VOC-free are available.

The fact that a paint is VOC-free does not necessarily mean that it is free of toxics such as formaldehyde, ammonia, acetone or odor masking agents. If it contains masking agents, then that's just another unnecessary chemical that is hiding whatever effects may be occurring. Thus, it is important to consider levels of toxic ingredients such as heavy metals in addition to VOC levels.

When possible use natural and solvent free paints, milkpaints or clay plasters.