Healthy Paints

VOCs — or volatile organic compounds — refer to the chemicals released from some interior paints which contribute to the buildup of ozone and may cause health problems if inhaled. Low- or zero-VOC paints help you avoid these toxins.

Luckily, earth-friendly paint collections are easier to find than ever. The following guide will help you weigh the available options and select the best eco-conscious paint for your next project.

Synthetic paints

Low-VOC and zero-VOC

Many major paint companies now offer low- or zero-VOC paint collections (note: zero VOC is a misnomer, as tinting the paint will add some VOCs). The most earth-friendly paint contains no extra chemicals or solvents — look for 5 g/L or less of VOCs.

Pros:

• Low odour
• Dries quickly
• Provides good coverage
• Durable
• Can be used on most surfaces
• Wide range of colours available

Cons:

• May contain additives and solvents
• Can’t be washed down the drain

Brands:

Low-VOC:

Behr, Benjamin Moore, Farrow & Ball, ICI, Para, Sherwin-Williams, Sico, C2 

Zero-VOC:

AFM Safecoat, Yolo Colorhouse

Recycled

Recycled paint is made from water-based latex paints collected from hazardous materials dropoff depots.

Pros:

• Generally Low-VOC, as the solvent will have evaporated over the paint’s lifetime
• Makes use of paints that would otherwise be discarded
• Inexpensive

Cons:

• May contain additives and solvents
• Can’t be washed down the drain

Brands:

Boomerang, Recycle Paint

Natural paints 

Milk paint

A centuries-old non-toxic coating, milk paint is made from casein (a milk protein), water, limestone, clay and powdered pigments. Available in fine powder form, it can be mixed at home in a kitchen blender.

Pros:

• VOC-free
• Low odour
• Won’t chip or peel
• Beautiful soft finish
• Won't fade
• Breathable and inhibits growth of mildew
• Dries quickly
• Safe to wash down the drain

Cons:

• Can only be applied to unfinished, porous materials like wood or plaster but not drywall
• Finish is flat and chalky unless sealed with hemp oil or beeswax
• Can only be washed if sealed
• Few colour options

Brands:

Canadian Old Fashioned Milk Paint Co., Homestead House

Plant and Mineral Paints

Paints made of plant- and mineral- based materials, including essential oils, clays and pigments. Though more widely available in Europe, several North American companies are now making pre-mixed paints with a soy-based resin or silicate as the binder.

Pros:

• Washable
• Opaque
• Breathable and contains anti-fungal properties
• Safe to wash down the drain
• Won’t fade
• Can be applied to most surfaces
• Most are low-VOC and low odour

Cons:

• Some contain volatile citrus-based solvents
• Not as scuff-resistant or scrubbable as conventional paint
• Limited colours available

Brands:

Eco-House, Green Planet