If the thought of paint fumes puts you off decorating, you're not alone. Many of us associate wood paints with strong smells, stinging eyes and even respiratory irritation. But it doesn't have to be that way. Modern odourless and low VOC paints have changed how we decorate, offering beautiful, durable results without the unpleasant side effects.
At Organic Natural Paints, we've always believed that what goes on your walls and woodwork matters just as much as how it looks. The eco friendly paints we stock are made with renewable, plant based ingredients and almost no harmful solvents, so you can create a healthy, breathable home without compromising on performance or finish.
What Causes Paint Smell?
The distinctive smell of standard paints comes from volatile organic compounds (VOCs) – petrochemical solvents that evaporate as the paint dries. This process is called "off gassing" and can release fumes into your home for months after decoration.
These fumes can contribute to headaches, dizziness and poor indoor air quality. They're particularly noticeable when painting large surfaces or working in spaces with limited ventilation. Low VOC paints use water based binders instead of these solvents, drastically reducing emissions. The result is a paint that feels fresher to use and doesn't fill your home with that heavy "fresh paint" smell.
Why Choose Odourless & VOC Free Paints for Wood?
Choosing an odourless paint for wood isn't just about comfort – it's about creating a healthier home environment for you and your family.
Odourless paints:-
- Keep indoor air cleaner, reducing allergy triggers and chemical exposure.
- Are far more pleasant to apply – no headaches or overpowering smells.
- Are ideal for nurseries, bedrooms and living areas where ventilation is limited.
- Clean up easily with water, without strong solvents.
- Are safer for pets and sensitive users, including those with asthma or chemical sensitivities.
Many natural wood paints are also breathable, meaning they allow moisture to pass through timber rather than trapping it. That helps reduce peeling, cracking and long term damage, especially on older woodwork.
Where to Use Odourless Paint for Wood
Low odour, water based paints are suitable for almost all indoor woodwork, and many can also be used outdoors. They're perfect for:
- Interior trim such as doors, skirting boards and window frames.
- Furniture and shelving.
- Toys and children's furniture.
- Kitchen units and cabinets.
- Exterior joinery such as gates, cladding and garden buildings.
Because they're non toxic and solvent free, they're particularly good for repainting spaces you live in. You can redecorate one day and sleep in the room the next.
Eco Friendly Paint for Wood – Our Top Picks
We've carefully curated a range of natural wood paints with low vocs and strong eco credentials.
Our top recommendations for fume free wood painting are:-
Earthborn Eggshell No. 17 – Odourless & Durable Interior Wood Paint
A tough, virtually odourless paint with a soft silk finish, Earthborn Eggshell No. 17 is ideal for interior wood such as doors, furniture and trim.
It's oil free, low VOC (less than 0.5 g/L), and completely safe for babies and children. The finish is washable and scuff resistant, with coverage around 14 m² per litre. Touch dry in 1-2 hours and recoatable after 6-12, it's easy to use and low maintenance. Available in 72 colours, including matching whites for seamless walls and woodwork.
Auro 517 – Odourless Satin Paint for Wood and Metal
Auro 517 is a VOC free satin paint for interior and exterior wood or metal, using the plant based Decovery binder for a smooth, low odour finish.
Coverage is 12-15 m² per litre, touch dry after 2 hours, recoatable in 6. Certified EN 71-3 Toy Safe, it's perfect for allergy sensitive and family homes.
Prime first with Auro 510 Paint Primer or Auro 519 Rust Primer for metal surfaces.
Auro 516 – VOC Free Gloss Paint for Wood and Metal
For a classic gloss look without the smell, Auro 516 delivers a bright, durable, odourless finish indoors or out.
It's solvent free, VOC free and non toxic, with outstanding flow and wet abrasion resistance. Coverage is around 12-15 m² per litre, dust dry after 2 hours, fully cured within 24.
Certified Toy Safe and saliva resistant, it's ideal for trim, windows and doors. Prime new timber with Auro 510 before applying two coats.
Auro 148 Swedish Red – Natural Exterior Paint
Bring the charm of traditional Falu Rödfärg to your home with Auro 148 Swedish Red. This breathable, solvent free, VOC free exterior paint is made from linseed oil, mineral pigments and iron vitriol for that rich, classic Scandinavian red.
Designed for rough-sawn wood facades, it's durable yet completely natural, with coverage around 4 m² per litre. Safe for playhouses and family spaces, it's an authentic, eco-friendly choice for anyone who loves the timeless Swedish look.
Health, Comfort and Sustainability
All of our low odour natural wood paints are designed with health and sustainability in mind. They're free from petrochemical solvents and microplastics, made with renewable raw materials, and supplied in recyclable tins.
Many are certified safe for toys and baby furniture. That means they're as gentle on you as they are on the planet.
Whether you want a crisp gloss, a contemporary satin finish, or a traditional red for exteriors, these odourless wood paints make it easy to create a beautiful, comfortable home without compromising your values.
See Also: Eco wood paint guide | Best non toxic paints for vegetable gardening
Explore the Range
Order a free colour chart to see the wide range of colours available using natural ingredients. Need advice on the best low odour wood paint for your indoor or outdoor project? Our friendly team of paint experts will be delighted to advise you!
