The Best Eco-Friendly Paints for a Healthy Home
Are you looking to refresh your living space with colors that not only enhance the aesthetics but also contribute to a healthier environment? As interior decor enthusiasts, it's crucial to stay on top of the latest trends while keeping sustainability in mind.
In this guide, we'll explore the top sustainable paint color trends that are not only eco-friendly but also health-conscious, perfect for those who prioritize both style and well-being in their homes.
Little Greene Mochi
What are the chemicals used to make paint for our home?
When it comes to the chemicals used in making paint for our homes, there are several key components that play a crucial role in the composition of this essential household product.
One of the primary chemicals found in paint is pigment, which provides color to the paint. Pigments can be either natural or synthetic, each offering a wide range of hues and shades to choose from when selecting the perfect paint for your home.
In addition to pigments, another vital chemical in paint is the binder, also known as the resin. The binder is responsible for holding the pigment particles together and ensuring they adhere to the surface being painted.
Different types of binders can be used, such as acrylics, alkyds, or epoxies, each offering unique properties that affect the durability and finish of the paint. Solvents are another crucial component in paint production.
Solvents are used to dissolve the binder and pigments, making the paint easier to apply and ensuring a smooth, even finish. Common solvents include water, mineral spirits, and acetone, each with its own specific applications and benefits.
Lastly, additives are chemicals that are included in paint formulations to enhance specific properties. These can include additives to improve drying time, prevent mold or mildew growth, increase durability, or provide special effects like texture or sheen.
Traditional paints contain harmful chemicals known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can release toxic fumes into the air, contributing to indoor air pollution.
What are Zero-VOC paints and why should you care?
Before delving into the trending color palettes, let's understand the significance of opting for eco-friendly paints.
Eco-friendly paints, also known as low-VOC or zero-VOC paints, are designed to enhance the aesthetics of your living spaces while prioritizing environmental and health considerations.
By being formulated without Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), these paints contribute significantly to indoor air quality by minimizing harmful emissions that can be detrimental to human health and the environment.
Choosing eco-friendly paints not only ensures a healthier indoor environment but also reflects a commitment to sustainable living practices.
These paints are often derived from natural ingredients such as plant oils, minerals, and water-based solutions, making them biodegradable and non-toxic. Furthermore, some eco-friendly paints incorporate recycled materials, further reducing the demand for new resources and promoting a circular economy.
By opting for eco-friendly paints, you are not only safeguarding your health and that of your loved ones but also contributing to the conservation of the environment.
These paints offer a versatile and sustainable alternative to conventional paints, allowing you to express your creativity while minimizing your carbon footprint. Embracing eco-friendly paints in your living spaces is a small yet impactful step towards a greener and healthier future for generations to come.
Tips for Choosing Sustainable Paints
Look for labels that indicate "zero VOC" or "low VOC" to ensure the paint is free from harmful chemicals.
Consider opting for vegan paints that are cruelty-free and do not contain any animal-derived ingredients.
Test the paint colors on a small section of the wall to see how they appear in different lighting conditions before committing to a full paint job.
Explore paint brands that prioritize sustainability and transparency in their manufacturing processes.
What are the Best Eco-Friendly paint brands in the market right now?
When it comes to choosing eco-friendly paint brands, there are several options available in the market that cater to environmentally-conscious consumers.
Graphenstone
Graphenstone integrates tradition, innovation, and technology into their paint formulas to develop a sustainable alternative to traditional paint using natural, non-toxic graphene.
The incorporation of graphene in their products sets Graphenstone apart as one of the most breathable eco-friendly paint brands due to their unique porosity. Rest assured, there are no VOCs or harmful chemicals in their products!
In addition, they have the seal of approval of Michelle Ogudenhin, former editor of Elle Decoration UK who is passionate about achieving home health!
Little Greene Paint
Little Greene paints offer attractive paint finishes that are also eco-friendly. Their water-based paints contain almost no VOCs, while their oil-based paints are vegan and made from sustainable vegetable oils, making them one of the most environmentally friendly options available.
Farrow & Ball Paint
Farrow & Ball is famous for its environmentally friendly practices, continuously improving its paint formulas to create durable and sustainable finishes. While they are well-known for their traditional heritage collection, they also made a significant impact by being the first brand to eliminate oil-based paints from all their products.
With a strong dedication to reducing waste and preserving the environment, F&B paints have low VOC levels and offer a completely water-based selection.
Farrow and Ball Stone Blue No 86
BioShield eco-friendly paints
One of the leading brands known for its eco-friendly paints is BioShield. BioShield offers a range of paints that are free from harmful chemicals and toxins, making them a safe choice for both the environment and human health.
ECOS Paints - for those who care
Another popular eco-friendly paint brand is ECOS Paints. ECOS Paints prides itself on producing paints that are not only environmentally friendly but also high-performing.
Their paints are low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and come in a wide variety of colors and finishes, making them a versatile choice for any painting project.
Earthborn Paints
For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, Earthborn Paints is a great choice. Earthborn Paints are made from natural ingredients such as clay and plant extracts, making them a sustainable and non-toxic choice for eco-conscious consumers.
Cornish Milk
Cornish Milk is a unique eco-friendly paint company located in Cornwall. Drawing inspiration from beautiful seaside hues and a passion for repurposing, Cornish Milk was established with the aim of steering clear of the harmful chemical solvents and toxins commonly present in conventional paints.
By utilizing natural earth pigments, Cornish Milk paints are safe for the environment, as well as for children and pets.
Paint & Paper Library
Featuring 180 distinct colors, Paint & Paper Library provide a variety of paints suitable for any DIY project, all of which are water-based and have low VOC levels. A top choice for both creativity and quality, their selection of luxurious finishes is crafted in a traditional manner with sustainable materials.
Lick Paint
Lick, a B-Corp, is a recent addition to the scene. Since 2019, this eco-friendly paint company has been dedicated to creating a more sustainable future and reducing waste. Their paint offerings are all water-based, low in VOCs, and come in recyclable packaging.
Overall, when choosing the best eco-friendly paint brands in the market right now, it is important to consider factors such as the ingredients used, the environmental impact of the paints, and the overall performance of the product.
By opting for eco-friendly paint brands, you can not only reduce your carbon footprint but also create a healthier living environment for you and your family.
Trending Colors for Sustainable Spaces
Greens
Embrace the tranquility of nature with soothing shades of green. From soft sage to deep forest tones, green hues not only evoke a sense of calm but also bring a touch of the outdoors inside.
Whether you're creating a green accent wall or painting your entire room, green is versatile and timeless, making it a popular choice for eco-conscious decorators.
Blues
Capture the essence of the sea with shades of ocean blue. Calming and refreshing, blue hues are perfect for creating a peaceful retreat in your home. Whether you opt for a bold navy or a soft powder blue, incorporating shades of blue can instantly elevate your space while staying true to your commitment to sustainability.
Warm Neutrals
Embrace the warmth of earthy neutrals such as terracotta, clay, and sand. These colors mimic the natural beauty of the earth and provide a grounding effect in any room.
Earthy neutrals pair well with a variety of decor styles, making them a versatile choice for those seeking a harmonious color palette that promotes a sense of well-being.
Pastels
For a touch of whimsy and charm, consider incorporating soft pastel shades into your home. Pastel pinks, blues, and greens can add a playful and airy feel to any space, perfect for creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
These gentle hues are ideal for nurseries, kids' rooms, or any area where you want to infuse a sense of light-heartedness.
By incorporating these sustainable paint color trends into your home, you can create a space that not only reflects your personal style but also aligns with your values of environmental consciousness and well-being. Say goodbye to toxic fumes and hello to a healthier, more vibrant living environment with these eco-friendly hues.
Whether you're revamping a single room or embarking on a full home makeover, choosing sustainable paints is a step towards creating a more eco-conscious and stylish living space. Let your walls speak volumes about your commitment to a healthier planet while enjoying the beauty of these trending colors.
So, why settle for ordinary when you can embrace sustainability and style with every brushstroke?
Start your eco-friendly paint journey today and transform your living space into a sanctuary of health and beauty!
Happy painting, eco-conscious decorators!
Jenny Kakoudakis likes to blog about interiors. She launched the award-winning Seasons in Colour in 2014. When she is not chasing criminals out of the financial system (her day job), she gets creative by redecorating her own home.
Download her free bathroom renovation guide here.
