| As a result of the \"green living\" movement, Low or | | | | Non toxic or Natural Paints |
| Zero VOC paints are becoming more mainstream. If | | | | These paints are produced by a variety of |
| you\'re gearing up to paint your baby\'s nursery, here\'s | | | | manufacturers and come in several options. Many of |
| what you should know about these new paint | | | | the paints are now available at mainstream home |
| alternatives. | | | | improvement stores as well as at local specialty paint |
| Traditional Paints | | | | stores. As with many eco-friendly products, there are |
| If you\'ve ever painted a room in the past with | | | | no official federal guidelines regarding labeling, so VOC |
| traditional paint, you probably had to open the windows | | | | standards may vary by manufacturer. Consult the |
| because of the strong odor. Traditional paints contain | | | | paint labels or ask your in-store paint specialist for |
| volatile organic compounds also known as VOCs. | | | | clarification if you have questions. You can also look |
| VOCs are comprised of a variety of chemicals that | | | | for paints that have Green Seal certifications. |
| can adversely affect your health. In fact, according to | | | | Types of Non toxic Paints |
| The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), VOCs | | | | Low VOC: These paints use water instead of |
| can trigger eye, nose and throat irritations, headaches, | | | | petroleum to carry the paint. To be considered Low |
| nausea, and a loss of coordination. Significant exposure | | | | VOC, a paint may only contain 250 grams of VOC |
| may even lead to problems with the kidney, liver and | | | | per liter. Likewise, varnishes are limited to 380 grams |
| central nervous system. | | | | of VOC per liter. However, many reputable paint |
| Many people mistakenly believe that once their paint is | | | | companies offer paints with even lower VOC levels. |
| dry and the smell is gone, the chemicals are too. | | | | Look for Green Seal Certifications. |
| However VOCs tend to concentrate indoors and may | | | | Zero VOC: These paints still contain VOCs but are |
| persist in the air long after painting is finished. To | | | | limited to less than 5 grams of VOC per liter. |
| decrease this risk, consider choosing a non toxic paint | | | | Natural Paints: These safe paints are made solely |
| for the nursery and other rooms in your home as well. | | | | from natural ingredients, including substances like water, |
| There are many benefits to using non toxic paints | | | | clay, chalk, plant dyes, natural latex and even milk and |
| including: | | | | beeswax. You can search for natural paints online. |
| - Easier clean-up with soap and water | | | | Decorating a baby nursery can be a loving way to |
| - Easier disposal options | | | | prepare for your newborn\'s arrival. If your plans |
| - Less odor during application and usually no odor once | | | | involve painting the walls, choosing non toxic or natural |
| the paint is dry | | | | paints is great way to reduce potential household |
| - A shorter waiting period to safely occupy the room | | | | toxins and give your precious baby the gift of healthy |
| - Significant reduction in toxins released into the air | | | | indoor air. |
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