Beyond the fumes: non-toxic paints gain traction with designers
The rise of healthier homes is fueling a surge in demand for non-toxic paints, offering homeowners a way to mitigate the lingering effects of traditional paint's volatile compounds. Designers are leading the charge, recommending alternatives that prioritize well-being without sacrificing aesthetics.
Why ditch conventional paint?
For years, conventional paints have been a silent contributor to indoor air pollution. Even after the initial odor fades, these paints continue to release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) – chemicals linked to respiratory problems, neurological issues, and even long-term health risks. The shift towards non-toxic options isn’t just a trend; it’s a conscious choice for healthier living environments.
The market offers a range of choices, broadly categorized into bio-based and mineral paints. Bio-based paints utilize renewable resources like casein, clay, and plant resins. While generally lower in VOCs than their conventional counterparts, some may still contain additives like biocides.
Mineral paints, often crafted from materials like lime and silicates, boast even lower VOCs. Their distinct chalky finish is gaining popularity, offering a natural, breathable alternative to traditional finishes. Considered by many to be virtually VOC-free, these paints are naturally mold-resistant and durable.
Top picks from the experts
Alicia Storie of AdesignStorie highlights the benefits of low-VOC paints for immediate air quality improvement, while emphasizing the long-term safety of zero-VOC options. Jonsara Ruth, co-founder of the Parsons Healthy Materials Lab, champions brands like Swedish-based Ottoson Paint, known for its excellent coverage, and Rubio Monocoat Stains for its durability and beautiful finishes. She also praises the linseed oil-based products from the newer English company, Brouns & Co.
Jamie Drake, an AD100 Hall of Fame designer, recommends mineral paints from Alkemis Paint and Benjamin Moore’s EcoSpec. Ruth, meanwhile, favors Keim and Real Milk Paint – the latter suitable for both wood and walls. For limewashes, consider Portola Paints’ Signature Finishes collection, which contains zero VOCs. Vicky Charles, an AD100 designer, utilized Portola Paints limewash and zellige tiles in a Montana guest bath, showcasing the material’s versatility.
Limewash, made from crushed limestone, offers a unique, translucent finish. It soaks into surfaces, requiring typically two coats for an even appearance. Justina Blakeney and Martha Hunt have embraced limewash in their interiors, and interior photographer Douglas Friedman recently launched his own line, Color Atelier.
Cost considerations vary significantly. Entry-level bio-based paints start around $40 per gallon, while premium options can reach $90. Limewash averages $50-$70 per gallon, with silicate mineral paints commanding the highest price point, between $70-$100 per gallon.
The health benefits are clear: limewash often boasts virtually no VOCs, while other mineral paints come close. The transition to non-toxic paints represents a significant shift, driven by a growing awareness of indoor air quality's impact on overall well-being. The numbers are compelling: the non-toxic paint market is projected to reach $9.4 billion by 2030, a testament to evolving consumer priorities.
The quiet revolution in paint is not just about aesthetics; it’s about safeguarding our health within the spaces we inhabit.