Zero emission paint is more expensive that regular paint — but it’s worth it for the health benefits. Interior paints can release toxic emissions into a room for months or even years.
Look for paints that are “zero VOC” –or better — paints that are “zero emission”.
Volatile organic compounds (“VOCs”) are chemicals that, along with oxides of nitrogen and sunlight, create ground level ozone, a major component of smog. Certain VOCs are also harmful when inhaled and pose indoor air quality concerns.
Zero VOC and Low Emission Wall Paints
- Benjamin Moore Natura Paint — zero-VOC and zero emissions — this the greenest paint offered by Benjamin Moore
- Benjamin Moore Aura Paint — a zero VOC paint line
- AFM Safecoat — a very safe line of paint from AFM — founded thirty years ago specifically for chemically sensitive customers
- Clare Paint — all Clare paint is low odor, has zero VOCs and colorants, and is Greenguard Gold certified
- Green Planet Paint — features plant- and mineral-based formulas — no colorants that have VOCs (which is how many low- and no-VOC paints end up with the chemicals in their ingredients)
- Auro Paints — somewhat expensive, but very high quality non-toxic paint
- Backdrop Paint — is low VOCs, odorless, and holds a Greenwise certification
- Magnolia Paint — Joanna Gaines’ paint line — low VOC and completely made of acrylic
- Valspar Paint — zero VOC, 100 percent acrylic, and Greenguard Gold certified for air quality
- Retique Chalk Paint — a traditional chalk-based paint — non-toxic
- Rust-Oleum Simply Home Interior Wall Paint — another chalk-based paint
- Bioshield Paint — offers clay and chalk paints
- Behr Premium Plus Paint — low emission paint, Greenguard Gold Certified for low chemical emissions.
