8/16/2024

A Plain-English Guide to Low-VOC and Zero-VOC Paints

What 'low-VOC' actually means, why it matters for nurseries and allergy sufferers, and which lines we trust.

Painter's brushes, rollers, and paint cans laid out on a drop cloth

VOCs (volatile organic compounds) are the chemicals that off-gas as paint cures — the 'fresh paint smell.' Low-VOC means under 50 g/L. Zero-VOC means under 5 g/L.

Our default for nurseries, asthma households, and pregnancy: Benjamin Moore Natura (zero-VOC, GREENGUARD Gold certified) or Sherwin-Williams Harmony. Both are washable and color-fast.

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