Decorating a nursery in anticipation of a new arrival or redecorating that first “big kid” bedroom is an exciting time. Increasingly, parents are aware of the effects of chemical exposure on babies and children, and want to know that the paints they’ll be using in the home are safe.
Fortunately, baby safe paints do exist and allow the creation of beautiful nursery and bedroom spaces for babies and kids without the toxic fumes, chemical smells, or other hidden nasties.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes a paint genuinely child friendly and which options are best for walls, ceilings, furniture, and toys.
What Makes Paint Baby & Child Safe?
Many mainstream paint products available through large chain stores contain petrochemicals, plastics, and solvents that release Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) into the air in your home.
VOCs are the chemical fumes you smell during the paint drying process. This is known as “off gassing”. What’s less well known about this process is that it can continue for months after the paint has dried, impacting the indoor air quality of your home.
Babies and young children are especially sensitive to their environment, so it makes sense to look for paints that are designed to be safe from the start.
A truly baby safe paint will:
- Contain zero or ultra low VOCs.
- Be water based with natural binders and pigments made from ingredients such as plant oils or minerals rather than plastics and petrochemicals.
- Carry independent certifications such as EN 71-3 Toy Safety, which means it has been tested safe for use on toys and children’s furniture.
- Be transparent about ingredients - check you can access paint TDS (Technical Data Sheets) so you can check exactly what’s inside.
Ingredients Commonly Found in Natural Paints
Unlike conventional paints, natural baby safe paints rely on completely natural and environmentally sustainable ingredients that are non toxic and breathable. Some natural paints actively purify the air in your home.
Depending on the type of paint, you might see:
- Clay - gives natural emulsions their body, breathability, and creates a beautifully matt, uniquely textured finish.
- Mineral pigments - provide colour without synthetic dyes.
- Lime - a traditional, naturally antibacterial ingredient used in many breathable wall paints. Due to its alkalinity, lime is naturally mould resistant to keep rooms spore free and healthy.
- Casein (milk protein) - often found in heritage style paints for strength and smooth application.
- Plant oils and resins - for durability without the need for petrochemicals.
- Natural fillers such as chalk or talc - create a naturally soft, powdery finish while remaining safe for indoor air.
These ingredients work together to create paints that are not only free from harsh chemicals but also perform just as well as standard paints. They are breathable, odour free, and safe for use around babies and children.
The benefits of choosing baby safe paint are clear: no chemical odours, no toxic fumes, and peace of mind that your child’s nursery or playroom is as healthy as it is beautiful.
See also: Pet safe paints
Natural Paint Options for Nurseries & Kids Spaces
There’s a comprehensive range of entirely natural paint options suitable for use in nurseries and kids bedrooms.
- Walls & Ceilings - Natural emulsions provide a smooth, durable finish without any chemical smell. Available in soft whites and a wide range of attractive colours, they’re ideal for nurseries, bedrooms, and family living spaces.
- Furniture & Toys - Certified baby safe wood paints can be used on cots, beds, chairs, toys, and play tables. These are tested to toy safety standards, giving you confidence they’re safe even if little ones chew or touch the surfaces.
- Playrooms & High Traffic Areas - Washable natural finishes are available for use in areas where sticky fingers and daily wear are likely. They give you the practicality of a wipe clean paint without the hidden chemicals.
Baby Safe Paint - FAQs
What paint is safe for babies?
Paints with zero or ultra low VOCs, made from natural ingredients, and independently certified safe (such as EN 71-3 Toy Safety) are best.
How long after painting can a baby sleep in the room?
With natural paints, once the paint is dry the room is safe. Still, it’s a good idea to leave it overnight so dust has settled.
Are chalk paints safe for toys and cots?
Not ideal - many chalk paints are not tested for toy safety and can rub off over time. A natural toy safe certified wood paint is better.
Can paint fumes trigger asthma in children?
Yes, VOCs from conventional paints can irritate lungs and trigger asthma or allergies. Natural paints don’t release these fumes.
Read more: Paint allergies & symptoms | Paint for allergy & asthma sufferers | Pet safe paint | Can you get non toxic paint for walls? | Fume free paint
Enjoy Kid Safe Decor
Creating a safe, soothing nursery or child’s room doesn’t have to mean compromising on style or practicality. Natural paints are just as effective as their petrochemical based counterparts, they’re comparable in performance and kind to the environment and the health of your family.
If you have any questions about the best paint to use on a nursery or kids bedroom, please contact us for expert advice.
You can also order a free paint chart to see the beautiful range of 100% natural paint colours available from the brands we stock.
