The Latest Updates On Organic, Eco-Friendly Paints

The use of environmentally friendly products is rapidly taking root in the paint industry. For years, most people thought that there was no way of avoiding nausea, headaches, and dizziness that resulted from the smell of freshly painted walls. However, this trend is fast changing as more people become aware of eco-friendly options even though they have always been available.

What Are Eco-Friendly Paints?

The World Health Organisation states that the risk of lung cancer increase by 40% for decorators that use paints. Many people also experience allergic reactions to conventional paints, thanks to the high toxicity levels of the contents of the paints. They include heavy metals, and volatile organic compounds, VOCs. Besides, the production process uses non-sustainable resources leaving a large carbon footprint. One litre of conventional can result in 20 or more litres of toxic wastes.

Eco-paints, on the other hand, are less toxic despite the lack of a clear-cut definition of what constitutes an eco-friendly paint. The most common ones use casein from milk. The paints from Organic & Natural Paint Co are vegan paint. They were the invention of a father who wished to eliminate the aggravating effects of VOCs on his family.

Where to Use Eco-Paints 

There is an eco-friendly paint for every part of the home. The most common usage is in the kid’s room. Today, eco-paints are available in different emulsions and finishes. Other variations include long-lasting wipe-able natural paints for hallways and kitchens as well as masonry paints and primers.

Challenges of Using Eco-Paints 

Like most organic products, these paints cost a little higher than conventional options. Fortunately, there is a continuous decline in the prices as most environmentally conscious manufacturers join the industry. Another pitfall is that paints based on natural oils take a longer time to dry than the others do. However, these challenges are inconsequential in comparison to the long-term health benefits that they provide.

How to Buy Eco-Paints 

Most “eco-friendly” paints out there are not toxic free. Most of them still contain traces of VOCs and other toxic substances. Two considerations are necessary when looking for environmentally friendly paint. They are:

Ingredients: The label is the first place to check when looking for eco-friendly products. Most companies that produce such paints always display their ingredients. Some make this information available upon request.

Manufacturer: Most manufacturers of conventional paints also produce “non-toxic” paints. However, most of them have fungicides and chemical pigments. The process of paint manufacturing also gives an idea of the carbon footprint of the product. The information is sometimes displayed on the paint pot or the manufacturer’s website.

Where to Buy Eco-Paints 

It is still not easy to find non-toxic paints in most brick and mortar stores. Most people order them from online stores or the manufacturer’s website. The latter is more convenient as it limits the chances of buying a counterfeit. Some of the best eco-paints in the UK are Aglaia, Auro, Biofa, EarthBorn, and Ecos.