The term “VOC Free Paint” is becoming harder to find on paint labels. That’s not because there’s been a reduction in environmental standards in manufacturing, but because of industry pressure about the accuracy of the term.
Technically, everything releases a small amount of VOCs meaning that the paint industry prefers the use of “Minimal VOC” or “Trace VOC”. Even the cleanest of natural paints are now described this way.
Auro 524 Natural Wall Paint Emulsion in White
Trace VOC paints are about as clean and safe as you can get, and almost every paint we stock here at Organic Natural Paints falls into that category. Many are also free from other potential irritants like MIT and MI, so they’re kinder to those with allergies or chemical sensitivities.
What Are VOCs in Paint?
“VOC” stands for Volatile Organic Compounds. They’re gases that evaporate from liquids and solids, including paint, into the air around us. In standard paints, VOCs usually come from petrochemical solvents and additives causing harsh fumes to be released into indoor spaces after use.
They don’t just disappear once the paint is dry. Off gassing can continue for months, sometimes years, gradually releasing these compounds into your home. That familiar “fresh paint smell” is actually a mix of chemicals, and indoors it can affect the air you breathe every day. This can cause issues for those sensitive to chemical fumes or sufferers of respiratory sensitivities or health conditions such as asthma.
Why Low or Zero VOC Paint is Better for Your Health and Home
Reducing VOCs in your home can drastically improve indoor air quality. Less fumes means fewer headaches, no eye irritation, and a reduction in asthma or allergy flare-ups. With natural trace VOC paints there’s usually no overpowering smell, so you can enjoy your freshly painted space much sooner.
It’s not just about the short term. Choosing low or trace VOC paint can help maintain better indoor air quality over time, which is particularly important for children, anyone with respiratory conditions, or those who are sensitive to chemicals.
There’s an environmental benefit too. VOCs contribute to air pollution, and making conventional paints often involves energy intensive petrochemical processes. Natural paints avoid most of this, and some even help regulate humidity or absorb carbon dioxide from the air. Photocatalytic paint actively cleans the air in your home.
Low VOC Paint – What It Means
Low VOC paints contain significantly less VOCs than standard options, but the term “low” is relative – there will still be some present.
Make sure you check the product’s technical data sheet to see exactly how low the VOC content is. VOCs are measured in grams per litre (g/l). If you see petrochemical based products on the ingredients list, the paint will still contain harmful fumes.
VOC Free (or Trace VOC) Paint – The Natural Choice
Trace VOC paints are the closest you’ll get to VOC free, and many are made from natural, breathable ingredients like clay, lime or casein.
They’re ideal for people who want the cleanest indoor air possible, or who are decorating spaces where children, pets or those with allergies spend time.
Natural and Organic Paint Options
Our range of low odour and low fume paints offers natural, safe ingredients for your home and family. Here’s a few examples of the types of paint we stock, how they might be described, and what the terminology all means!
- Lime based paints – breathable, with natural anti mould properties, suited to older buildings and for application over lime plasters, as well as being beneficial for use in damp prone rooms.
- Clay paints – help regulate indoor humidity and give a uniquely textured soft matt finish. Clay paint is made from clay, minerals and is water based. It doesn’t contain oils or acrylics. This paint gives amazing coverage, is highly breathable, and provides a quality finish without the fumes.
- Natural paints – natural paint products are made from ingredients naturally available in the environment via eco-friendly means. So no environmental harm and no fumes.
- Vegan Paints – yes, these exist! They differ from natural paints in that they don’t contain ingredients like beeswax or ox gall which are derived from animals. Vegan paints feature purely plant based ingredients.
See Also: What is clay based paint?
Contact Us For Advice
Trace VOC paints, especially those made from natural ingredients, go further to protect your health, your home’s air quality, and the environment. If you’d like to explore the cleanest, fume free options, take a look at our trace VOC paint range and order a free colour chart to start planning.
Need some expert advice? Contact us and one of our knowledgeable team will be pleased to help.
