New paint smell? If you have opened a tin of paint and noticed how strong it smells, you have experienced volatile organic compounds (VOCS) in paint.

For chemically sensitive decorators, understanding VOCs is an important part of making sure decorating your home does not impact your health. By choosing paints that have negligible VOCs, you’ll achieve better indoor air quality in your home and reduce the risk of effects like irritation, headaches or asthma flare ups.

So what exactly are VOCs in paint, and how do natural paints compare to standard alternatives?

What Are VOCs?

VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, are carbon-based chemicals that evaporate easily at room temperature, releasing them into the space you are painting. Because they have relatively low boiling points, they readily turn into vapour and disperse into the surrounding air.

When paint is applied, VOCs are released into the air in a process often referred to as off gassing. The highest concentrations are typically during application and drying, but lower levels can continue to be released into your home for some time afterwards.

In paint, VOCs are typically found in:

  • Solvents used to keep paint liquid in the tin.
  • Additives that improve flow and application.
  • Drying agents.
  • Preservatives.

Common VOCs historically associated with paints and coatings include toluene, xylene, benzene, ethylbenzene, formaldehyde, ethylene glycol and various alcohols. Some of these chemicals are also found in other household products like air fresheners, carpets and new furniture. That means a home renovation can be very challenging for people with chemical sensitivities.

Are VOCs Dangerous?

Yes, paint VOCs can be dangerous, particularly to those who are vulnerable or have allergies to the chemicals in paint. Short term exposure to elevated VOC levels may contribute to:-

  • Eye, nose and throat irritation.
  • Headaches.
  • Dizziness or nausea.
  • Worsening asthma or eczema symptoms.

People who are chemically sensitive, asthmatic, elderly, or very young are often more susceptible.

Long term exposure to certain VOCs has been associated with more serious health concerns. But for most homeowners the immediate concern is how indoor air quality affects daily comfort and respiratory health.

Understanding VOC Levels in Paint

In the UK and across Europe, VOC levels in decorative paints are legally regulated which means that there are strict rules around terms like “low VOC”, “zero VOC” and “VOC free”.

The Volatile Organic Compounds in Paints, Varnishes and Vehicle Refinishing Products Regulations set maximum VOC content limits in grams per litre (g/L) depending on paint type. Source.

For example, water-based interior matt wall paint has a maximum permitted VOC content of 30 g/L, while some other finishes are allowed significantly higher levels.

Many paint manufacturers label products as “low VOC” if they fall below these legal limits. However, being under the legal maximum does not necessarily mean a paint is ideal for chemically sensitive households.

Can You Get VOC Free Paint?

You may see the terms “VOC free” or “zero VOC” used in marketing, particularly in older materials or in other regions. However, in the UK & Europe the paint industry cannot promote paints using “zero VOC” claims.

Why? Because virtually all paints contain some trace level of VOCs. Even the water used in a water based paint can contribute minute amounts. The processing, drying and purification of raw materials also introduce trace emissions.

As a result, more accurate language today is “trace VOC” or “minimal VOC”.

For chemically sensitive homeowners, the key point is not whether a paint can be described as absolutely free of VOCs, but how low the overall emission level is compared to conventional alternatives.

Conventional Paint vs Natural Paint

All paints emit something. The real questions are how much, what type of compounds, and for how long.

Standard Paints

Conventional solvent based paints traditionally rely on higher levels of petroleum-derived solvents. Even many standard water based paints use synthetic coalescents, glycols and other additives to improve flow, durability and drying time.

These ingredients can contribute to a higher overall VOC load and a stronger odour during application.

Natural and Mineral Paints

Natural, clay, lime and mineral paints are formulated differently. They typically use water, plant oils, clay, lime, chalk or silicate binders rather than synthetic solvent systems.

Because of this, they generally require far less in the way of volatile solvents. The result is often significantly lower VOC content and noticeably milder odour during application.

It is important to be realistic. Natural paints are not completely emission-free. However, many are formulated to trace or extremely low VOC levels, which can make a meaningful difference for sensitive households.

Trace: < 0.1% VOC content.

  • Minimal: 0.1% – 0.29% VOC content.
  • Low: 0.3% – 7.99% VOC content.
  • Medium: 8% – 24.99% VOC content.
  • High: 25% – 50% VOC content.
  • Very High: > 50% VOC content.

Most natural paints we stock have 1g/l voc content or less, and many such as the Auro range have <0.1%.

What Chemicals are in Paint?

For chemically sensitive homeowners, VOCs are only part of the picture.

Some modern water-based paints use preservatives such as methylisothiazolinone (MI) or methylchloroisothiazolinone (MIT) to prevent microbial growth in the tin. These substances have been linked to allergic skin reactions and sensitivities in some people.

Formaldehyde releasers, fragrance and certain glycols may also trigger reactions, even if the paint meets low VOC criteria.

This is why focusing solely on the words “low VOC” can be misleading. A paint may comply with VOC regulations but still contain ingredients that sensitive individuals prefer to avoid.

Many natural and mineral paint ranges are formulated without these particular preservatives and with a reduced overall additive load. However, these chemicals may also be in natural paints, so if you are sensitive it’s best to get advice – do please contact us if you have allergies to any paint ingredients so we can signpost you to the best products for your needs.

Choosing Paint for a Sensitive Home

If you or someone in your household is chemically sensitive, asthmatic or prone to headaches from strong smells, consider the following:

  • Look for paints described as trace or minimal VOC.
  • Check technical data sheets rather than relying only on claims on the tin.
  • Ask about preservatives such as MI or MIT.
  • Use adequate ventilation during and after painting.
  • Allow sufficient curing time before reoccupying freshly decorated rooms.

Natural and mineral paints are not simply a lifestyle choice. For some households, they are a practical step towards reducing overall indoor chemical exposure.

Check out our MI Free Paints & Trace VOC Paints

Looking for Natural Alternatives?

For chemically sensitive homeowners, paints formulated with trace VOC levels and simpler, mineral based ingredients can offer a noticeably gentler decorating experience. When indoor air quality matters, understanding what is in your paint is just as important as choosing the right colour.

Need advice about paint that supports your health needs? Contact us and one of our paint experts will be happy to help.