When it comes to renovating your home, choosing eco-friendly paints is an excellent way to reduce your environmental impact while creating a healthier living space. Traditional paints often contain harmful chemicals known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can affect indoor air quality and contribute to pollution. Eco-friendly paints, on the other hand, are safer, sustainable, and just as effective. Here’s a guide to the best eco-friendly paints for your next renovation.
Low-VOC Paints
Low-VOC paints are formulated to minimise the release of harmful fumes. They are widely available and ideal for interior and exterior surfaces. These paints meet strict environmental standards while offering vibrant colours and durability.
Top Picks:
- Dulux UltraAir: Certified low-VOC, this paint is perfect for Australian homes and offers excellent coverage.
- Sherwin-Williams Harmony: Known for its odour-reducing technology, making it great for bedrooms and living areas.
Zero-VOC Paints
Zero-VOC paints are an even safer option, as they contain no volatile organic compounds. These are ideal for sensitive areas like nurseries or homes with people who have allergies or respiratory issues.
Top Picks:
- Porter’s Paints Milk Paint: A natural, zero-VOC option made from casein (milk protein) and lime.
- Benjamin Moore Natura: A premium-quality zero-VOC paint that is both durable and eco-friendly.
Natural Paints
Natural paints are made from ingredients like clay, plant oils, and natural pigments. They are biodegradable and free from synthetic chemicals, making them the most sustainable option.
Top Picks:
- Earthborn Claypaint: A breathable, natural paint perfect for older homes or walls prone to dampness.
- Auro Natural Paints: Made from renewable raw materials, offering a wide range of finishes.
Recycled Paints
Recycled paints are made by reprocessing leftover or unused paints, reducing waste and giving new life to materials that would otherwise end up in landfills.
Top Picks:
- Evolve Paint: An Australian brand offering high-quality recycled paints in a variety of colours.
- Recolour Paints: A budget-friendly option for eco-conscious renovators.
Water-Based Paints
Water-based paints are an environmentally friendly alternative to oil-based paints, as they emit fewer toxins and are easier to clean up without harsh chemicals.
Top Picks:
- Haymes Paint Expressions: A water-based, low-VOC paint that delivers a smooth finish.
- Resene Zylone Sheen: A durable, water-based paint suitable for both walls and ceilings.
Paint with Certifications
When choosing eco-friendly paints, look for certifications that ensure the product meets environmental and health standards. Some trusted certifications include:
- GECA (Good Environmental Choice Australia).
- Green Seal.
- EcoLogo.
Benefits of Eco-Friendly Paints
- Healthier Indoor Air Quality: Reduces exposure to toxic fumes.
- Environmentally Sustainable: Uses renewable or recycled materials.
- Durable and High-Quality: Matches or exceeds the performance of traditional paints.
- Safe for Families: Ideal for homes with children, pets, or individuals with sensitivities.
Tips for Using Eco-Friendly Paints
- Prepare Your Surface: Clean and prime the surface to ensure the paint adheres properly.
- Choose the Right Finish: Matte for walls, semi-gloss for trims, and satin for high-traffic areas.
- Ventilate Your Space: Even with low-VOC or zero-VOC paints, good ventilation ensures faster drying and eliminates residual odours.
Why Eco-Friendly Paints Are the Future
As sustainability becomes a priority, eco-friendly paints are an easy and impactful way to make your renovation greener. With so many high-quality options available, you don’t have to compromise on performance or aesthetics while protecting the environment.
