When preparing for the arrival of a new baby, there are a lot of things to consider, including the safety of the environment they will be living in. One aspect that often goes overlooked is the type of paint used in the nursery. Traditional paint can contain harmful chemicals that can be dangerous for infants who spend most of their time in their rooms. In this article, we will explore the best non-toxic paint options for a nursery that are safe and environmentally friendly.
Why Choose Non-Toxic Paint for Nursery?
Conventional paints contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that emit toxic fumes for years after application. These chemicals can be harmful to your baby’s health and can lead to respiratory problems, allergies, and even organ damage. Non-toxic paints are made from natural and organic ingredients that are safe for you, your baby, and the environment. They are free from harmful chemicals such as VOCs, formaldehyde, and heavy metals.
What to Look for in Non-Toxic Paint for Nursery?
When choosing non-toxic paint for your nursery, there are a few things to consider:
- Low VOCs: Make sure the paint has low or no VOCs. VOCs are a major contributor to indoor air pollution and can cause respiratory problems.
- Natural Ingredients: Look for paints made from natural and organic ingredients such as clay, milk protein, and plant oils. Avoid paints that contain synthetic ingredients, such as acrylic and vinyl.
- Certification: Look for certifications such as Green Seal, Greenguard, or LEED. These certifications ensure that the paint meets strict environmental and health standards.
Top Non-Toxic Paints for Nursery
Here are some of the top non-toxic paints for a nursery:
1. ECOS Paints
ECOS Paints is a company that produces non-toxic, zero-VOC paints. Their paints are made from natural ingredients such as clay, chalk, and soy resin. They offer a wide range of colors and finishes, including matte, eggshell, and semi-gloss. ECOS Paints are certified by Green Seal and Greenguard, ensuring that they meet strict environmental and health standards.
2. Benjamin Moore Natura
Benjamin Moore Natura is a zero-VOC, non-toxic paint that is made from natural ingredients such as clay and milk protein. It is available in a wide range of colors and finishes, including flat, eggshell, and semi-gloss. Benjamin Moore Natura is certified by Green Seal and Greenguard, ensuring that it meets strict environmental and health standards.
3. Sherwin-Williams Harmony
Sherwin-Williams Harmony is a zero-VOC, non-toxic paint that is made from natural ingredients such as soy and acrylic copolymers. It is available in a wide range of colors and finishes, including flat, eggshell, and semi-gloss. Sherwin-Williams Harmony is certified by Green Seal and Greenguard, ensuring that it meets strict environmental and health standards.
4. AFM Safecoat
AFM Safecoat is a non-toxic, zero-VOC paint that is made from natural ingredients such as clay, water, and plant oils. It is available in a wide range of colors and finishes, including flat, eggshell, and semi-gloss. AFM Safecoat is certified by Green Seal and Greenguard, ensuring that it meets strict environmental and health standards.
How to Paint a Nursery Safely
Painting a nursery can be a fun and exciting project, but it’s important to do it safely. Here are some tips:
- Ventilation: Open windows and use fans to ensure proper ventilation while painting. Avoid painting on days with high humidity.
- Protective Equipment: Wear gloves, goggles, and a mask to protect yourself from exposure to paint fumes.
- Preparation: Prepare the room by removing furniture and covering the floor with a drop cloth. Clean the walls thoroughly before painting.
- Application: Apply the paint in thin coats and avoid over-saturating the brush or roller. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next one.
- Post-Painting: Keep the room well-ventilated and avoid entering the room until the paint has dried completely.
The Bottom Line
Choosing non-toxic paint for your nursery is an important step towards creating a safe and healthy environment for your baby. Look for paints that are low in VOCs, made from natural ingredients, and certified by reputable organizations. When painting, take proper precautions to ensure that you and your baby are not exposed to harmful fumes. With these tips in mind, you can create a beautiful and safe nursery for your little one.