Non-Toxic Nursery Paints for a Chemical-Free Nursery

As a mum of two, I know how overwhelming it can be when preparing your baby’s nursery. From picking out the crib to choosing soft, organic bedding, every decision feels significant. But one choice I didn’t think about enough years ago when setting up my children’s nurseries was the paint on the walls. When I first decorated my baby’s nursery back in 2000, I didn’t realize how harmful some paints could be. I want to share with you why Non-Toxic Nursery Paints are crucial for your little one’s health and how switching to safer, eco-friendly options can give you peace of mind.

The Problem: Toxic Chemicals in Traditional Paints

When we think about creating a safe, welcoming space for our babies, we focus on the furniture, the toys, and the soft fabrics they’ll be touching. But one often-overlooked aspect is the paint on the walls. Traditional paints can contain harmful chemicals like volatile organic compounds (VOCs), formaldehyde, and other toxins. These chemicals can release fumes into the air long after the paint has dried.

As babies spend a lot of time lying on the floor or playing close to walls, they are more vulnerable to inhaling these toxins. Even if you think the paint has dried, the volatile chemicals can linger in the air for weeks or even months, affecting air quality in the nursery. This can lead to respiratory issues, allergies, and skin irritation, which no parent wants to deal with, especially in those early months.

The Solution: Non-Toxic Nursery Paints

Now, you might be wondering, How can I create a beautiful nursery without compromising my baby’s health? The answer is simple—Non-Toxic Nursery Paints. These paints are free from harmful chemicals like VOCs and formaldehyde. Instead, they use natural ingredients and plant-based solvents to create vibrant, long-lasting colours while ensuring the air in your baby’s nursery stays clean and fresh. Here’s why Non-Toxic Nursery Paints are the perfect choice for any new mum:

Benefits of Non-Toxic Nursery Paints

1. Improved Air Quality

Non-toxic paints don’t release harmful fumes into the air, which means you can breathe easily, knowing the air quality and environment are safe for your baby. Whether your little one is a newborn or crawling around the room, the air they breathe matters, and with non-toxic paint, you can ensure it’s free from pollutants.

2. Safer for Sensitive Skin

Babies have sensitive skin, and traditional paints can cause irritation or allergic reactions. Non-toxic paints are formulated without harsh chemicals, making them much gentler on your baby’s delicate skin.

3. Eco-Friendly & Sustainable

Non-toxic paints are often made with sustainable, renewable resources, so you’re not only protecting your baby’s health but also the planet. Many brands also use recycled packaging, making them a greener choice.

4. Better for Your Health

As a mum, it’s important to think about your health too. Traditional paints can affect your respiratory system, especially if you’re pregnant or sensitive to chemicals. Non-toxic paints are safe for everyone in the family, including pets!

5. Long-lasting & Beautiful Finish

Non-toxic does not mean less durable. Many eco-friendly paints offer a rich, smooth finish that’s just as long-lasting and beautiful as traditional paints. Plus, many come in a variety of soft, calming hues that are perfect for a nursery.

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How to Choose the Right Non-Toxic Nursery Paints

Choosing the right paint might feel daunting at first, but it’s easier than you think. Here are a few tips to help you make an informed choice:

1. Check for Certifications

Look for paints that are labelled as low-VOC or VOC-free. Certifications such as Green Seal, Greenguard Gold, or EcoLabel are great indicators that the paint is safe and non-toxic.

2. Opt for Water-Based Paints

Water-based paints are generally safer than oil-based ones and tend to have fewer chemicals. Plus, they’re easier to clean up with soap and water!

3. Choose Breathable Paints

Non-toxic paints should allow the walls to breathe. This helps to prevent the buildup of moisture, which can lead to mould or mildew.

4. Consider the Finish

Matte finishes are often the best choice for a nursery, as they’re less likely to highlight imperfections on the walls. They also create a soft, cosy atmosphere that’s perfect for a baby’s room.

You will find the volatile organic compounds emissions on the side of a tin of paint. Image credited to British Coatings Federation LTD.

designed by okos koti 

Non-Toxic Nursery Paints

Eco paint also falls under organic, low VOC, VOC free, and non-toxic, and most manufacturers have a label on the side of the tin which will tell you the VOC content and whether it’s high, low or minimal. Although some paint manufacturers state that their paint is VOC-free, many others claim it is impossible to have 100% VOC paint. Both possibilities are possible, but I cannot say with certainty which is the case.

Based on my research, I found that the following paint manufacturers have the lowest VOC levels. Nordfarg, Earthborn, Little Green, Little Knights, Lakeland, and Valspar (specific ranges). However, when looking for eco-paint, always read the label; there is a term known as “green-washing” where a manufacturer can make environmental statements that can be misleading. Regardless of whether something is branded eco-friendly or states eco-friendly, you should review the credentials to ensure it does not make false claims.

Non-Toxic Nursery Paints: Brands you need to know! 

Earthborn Virtually VOC Free Paint 

Earthborn paints are great for allergy and asthma sufferers because they are made from materials that avoid known allergens and their moisture-absorbing properties, which keep the air in the room at a constant humidity level. The clay paint range emits negative ions promoting well-being. www.earthbornpaints.co.uk

Little Knights VOC Free Paint

Little Knights VOC-free paint contains antibacterial properties for people who suffer from allergies, preventing mould and mildew growth and being allergy-free. Aside from being VOC-free, their paint absorbs formaldehyde from the air and is free of harmful chemicals and carcinogens. www.little-knights.co.uk

Lakeland Zero VOC Paint

Paints made by Lakeland are VOC-free, solvent-free, non-toxic, and made in the UK. Lakeland paints’ odourless, breathable, and microporous properties also ensure a healthy humidity level and prevent mould and mildew growth. www.lakelandpaints.co.uk

Valspar Zero VOC Paint 

Valspar Reserve, Signature, Ultra 2000 and Ultra 4000 VOC free paint have achieved GREENGUARD Gold certification. www.valsparpaint.co.uk

Nordfarg

The Nordfarg VAGG (matt interior emulsion) paint has the Allergy UK seal of approval, which means it is suitable for people with allergies and asthma. VAGG is proven ideal for sensitive skin after clinical/dermatological tests showed a significant reduction in allergen content. www.nordfarg.com

Little Green

Water-based paint containing virtually no VOCs tested against European Standard EN 71-3:2019, which means it is safe for children. www.littlegreene.com

Non-Toxic Nursery Paints: Final Thoughts

As new mums, we do everything we can to create a safe, comfortable environment for our babies. By choosing Non-Toxic Nursery Paints, we can rest assured that the air they breathe, the walls they touch, and the space they explore are all free from harmful chemicals. The best part? These paints don’t sacrifice style for safety. You can still create a beautiful, calming nursery that’s both healthy and stylish!

If you’re expecting or planning a nursery makeover, I highly recommend switching to non-toxic paints. It’s one of the best decisions I made for my children’s health, and I know you’ll feel the same once you see the difference it makes. Your baby deserves a safe, nurturing space, and non-toxic nursery paints are a simple but effective step toward creating that.

Have you made the switch to non-toxic nursery paints yet? Feel free to share your experience or ask any questions in the comments below!

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