Product Highlights - A Crash Course on VOCs & Healthy Paints
Did you know that Americans, on average - spend aprroximately 90 percent of their time indoors? In a survey by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the pattern survey for human exposure highlights the link between indoor pollutants and the high duration of exposure people typically are subjected to daily - specifically to the harmful offgassing of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs).
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) - are organic chemicals that readily vaporize at room temperature. They are emitted as gases from certain solids or liquids and can have short- and long-term adverse health effects when present in high concentrations. In the context of paints, VOCs are solvents that help the paint spread easily and evaporate as the paint dries.
When sourcing for paints for your home design projects - we look for certifications and standards, supply transparency, and labels like “Low VOC” or “zero VOC” (this indicates they meet/exceed industry standards for low VOC content.)
See below our favorite vendors that pass the smell test:
Clare
- Zero VOC paint & colorants
- Greenguard Gold Certified
- Low odor
- Free of hazardous air pollutants (HAP) and toxic air contaminants (TAC)
- Energy efficient manufacturing processes
- Ecofriendly packaging
- Black owned business
Backdrop
- Low VOC
- Greenwise Certified
- Low odor
- Carbon neutral company
- Partnership with International Rescue Committee
- Ecofriendly packaging
As we strive for healthier and more sustainable living spaces, mindful sourcing becomes paramount. When it comes to paint selection, choosing low or zero VOC paints offers numerous benefits - so you can be sure that what looks good in your home, is also good for you too.
.png)
