Choosing the furniture for your baby’s nursery or kids room is exciting but can also be nerve-wracking in today’s world where toxic chemicals are in basically everything. Babies put everything in their mouth, yes literally everything, even the baby crib will end up in your child’s mouth at some point, I promise! Whether you are choosing to paint furniture yourself or you’re purchasing furniture from a store it’s critical make sure that you’re using the safest option for you’re little one. I put together a list the safest most non-toxic paint choices for your nursery.

Best Non-Toxic Paint for Baby Furniture

Zero-VOC Paint Brands

1. Benjamin Moore has zero-VOC paint line called Gennex® Color Technology with lost of colors and finishes.
2. Sherwin Williams has both interior and exterior paint that is zero-VOC, with their Harmont Line.
3. ECOS Paints specializes in environmentally-friendly and zero-VOC paints, with interior and exterior options available.
4. Behr’s line of Premium Plus Paint & Primer in One is zero VOC, and low odor paint which is great for often sensitive pregnant noses.
5. PPG has a line called GreenSure which are all zero-VOC paints with a range of colors and finishes.

Natural Paint Brands

1. ECOS Paints comes in for the win again, a line of water-based and non-toxic paints that are nature-friendly!
2. Benjamin Moore Natura is also a great choice with its eco-friendly and low VOC paints.
3. The Real Milk Paint Co. and their range of all-natural milk-based paints.
4. Earth Pigments has natural pigments you can use to make your own paint.
5. Livos also offers plant-based and natural paints in various colors.
6. Auro has an extensive selection of natural, organic, and non-toxic paints.

Chalk Paint Brands

1. Annie Sloan is a well-known and widely available brand you can trust. Made with natural ingredients and low in VOCs, it’s a great choice.
2. Country Chic Paint is another popular non-toxic chalk paint. It’s water-based and free of VOCs and harsh chemicals. 3.
3. Rust-Oleum Chalked is also a great option – low in VOCs, water-based, and easy to work with, it produces a smooth, durable finish.
4. Cloth & Paper is a non-toxic chalk paint made with natural ingredients and free from any harsh chemicals. There’s a range of colors to choose from and it’s simple to use.
5. Chalkology is a non-toxic, water-based paint that is low in VOCs and comes in a variety of colors!
6. Dixie Belle Paint is completely free of harmful chemicals and drying to a smooth, durable finish.
7. Waverly Inspirations Chalk Paint also offers a non-toxic option that is low in VOCs and easy to use!
8. Wise Owl Paint offers an equally safe option, utilizing natural ingredients and an array of colors.
9. Maison Blanche Paint Company provides a non-toxic, VOC-low alternative with a range of colors that is easy to apply.

Milk Paint

1. Real Milk Paint Co is a family-owned business that has been making non-toxic, all-natural paint for over 40 years. They have lots of colors and are known for their durability and versatility
2. Old Fashioned Milk Paint Company specializes in traditional, non-toxic paint based on the same formulas used in colonial America. Their paint is easy to use, with a simple mixing process, and comes in a range of colors. 
3. Homestead House is a Canadian company that produces a variety of natural, non-toxic paint and finishes including milk paint. They have many colors and finishes to choose from.
4. Green Depot is a sustainable building supply company that offers a range of green and non-toxic building materials, including milk paint. Their milk paint is made with natural, non-toxic ingredients.
5. Miss Mustard Seed’s Milk Paint is another popular option for DIY and non-toxic alike. It is easy to use because it only needs to be mixed with water. There are also a ton of different finishes to choose from such as matte, smooth, and chipped. She also offers more than just paint such as glazes, waxes and washes to create a variety of different looks.

Acrylic Paint

1. Liquitex Basics is a well-known brand of acrylic paint is both budget-friendly and non-toxic making it very popular. 
2. Winsor & Newton Galeria makes a high-quality and versatile range of non-toxic acrylic paints to choose from.
3. Blick Studio is an artist-grade brand that has a lot of non-toxic acrylic paints are still affordable and popular option for artists and hobbyists alike.
4. Apple Barrel has several non-toxic acrylics that are typically available in big box stores around the United States.
5. Green Planet Paints is an eco-conscious company that creates safe, non-toxic acrylics with natural and organic ingredients; they are a good choice because the entire line is considered non-toxic.

General guidelines for safe paint options

• water-based paint or water-based latex paint
• natural paints made from natural ingredients such as clay and plant-based oils
• chalk paint with low levels of VOCs and a durable, matte finish
• old fashioned milk paint

1. Water-based paint and water-based latex paints are a great eco-friendly choice because of their low levels of VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), which means fewer fumes that could be harmful for people and the environment. Compared to oil-based paints, latex paint is considered non-toxic and safer to use.
2. Natural paints are made from natural ingredients such as plant-based oils, minerals, and pigments, thereby avoiding any synthetic chemicals, VOCs or preservatives. Some of the common components of these paints include linseed oil, chalk and clay, making them safer for both the environment and human health.
3. Chalk paint is typically considered safe to use around babies, because it is composed of all natural ingredients like calcium carbonate and water, which are low in toxicity. It’s important to properly prep the furniture before painting by ensuring it is free of any dirt, grease, or residue before painting. In my opinion a water-based, low-VOC (volatile organic compound) formula are best, since they won’t release harmful fumes into the air.
4. Latex paint is safe and low in VOCs, while natural paints are completely free of chemicals, and chalk paint is easy to work with and dries to a durable finish. Be sure to also ensure that your chosen paint meets the safety standards set by the CPSC. Ultimately, the best paint for baby furniture will depend on your specific requirements.

How do you choose the best paints for your little ones room and furniture?

There are several things to consider when choosing a non-toxic paint for your baby’s crib, room or furniture. One of the biggest thing to look for is a low VOC (volatile organic compounds) or even zero-VOC paint option that doesn’t contain any harmful chemicals like lead or formaldehyde. You’ll want to ensure that the product meets the requirements of the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

The CPSC has created standards for the paint used on children’s products such as cribs, to make sure they are free of lead and other hazardous substances. Per their guidelines, lead content must not exceed 90 parts per million (ppm) and formaldehyde must not exceed 0.1 parts per million (ppm). Additionally, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) emissions must abide by the CPSC or EPA standards. It is important to remember that the standards outlined by the CPSC can be subject to change, so it is recommended to double-check the CPSC website before making your choice.

While the CPSC is a great starting point in my opinion there are other factors I would consider as well. The CPSC is just the most basic requirements I would want my child’s furniture to abide by. I also like to look for one various certifications below. These certifications are recommended by the EPA as belonging to companies who choose to use less toxic chemicals in their products. I personally have several Green Seal certified products and feel safe using them in my own home.

The following certifications are given to companies and products who choose to use non-toxic and often eco-friendly materials. As with everything be sure to look at the product ingredients to ensure that they align with your personal preferences.

What makes traditional paint unsafe for children?

Traditional paint, also referred to as oil-based or alkyd paint, can be full of potentially hazardous ingredients, for instance:

• Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) – these chemicals become gases and may give rise to air pollution, reduce indoor air quality and pose a risk to human health. As these chemicals are gradually released into the air during the paint drying process, it is particularly important to use non-toxic paints when decorating items for children.
• Heavy Metals – certain pigments used in paint can consist of lead, mercury, or cadmium, which are unhealthy for humans and the environment.
• Formaldehyde – this preservative may cause breathing problems and is considered a carcinogen.
• Petroleum-based solvents – they produce vapours that can irritate the eyes, nose and throat and have further health implications.
• Lead – can severely impact brain development and cause delays in growth if inhaled or ingested in significant quantities

These are a few of the harmful substances often found in conventional paint. To reduce exposure to these detrimental components, select low-VOC or VOC-free paint items and read product labels thoroughly.

Can the harmful chemicals in paint be endocrine disruptors?

Yes many of the chemicals have been proven to be endocrine disrupters in both children and adults. Many of those chemicals interfere with the endocrine system and cause adverse health effects. Phthalates, BPA, lead and cadmium are a few of the biggest ones that can wreck havoc on adults but especially developing little ones. These heavy metals, which are found in paint pigments, have been linked to developmental problems, reproductive problems, and impaired immune system function. This is why it’s so important to find the least toxic version that will work for your family. 

Is acrylic paint a good option for kids furniture?

Acrylic paint can be another ideal choice for painting furniture for kids, as it is generally safe and non-toxic. Unlike oil-based paints which can linger with a strong and unpleasant smell, acrylic paint is water-based and low on VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds). It is also super easy to clean up with just soap and water. To make sure you choose the best option for your little ones’ furniture, remember to check and see if it meets (CPSC) safety standards or other standards that are most important to you and your family.

Acrylic paint is a great option for a variety of surfaces, including wood, metal, plastic, glass and masonry. It adheres well to wood and dries quickly, creating a hard finish that is resistant to chipping and scratching. On plastic and glass surfaces, the paint dries to a flexible finish that resists cracking and peeling. For outdoor painting, acrylic paint is ideal due to its durability and weather-resistance. It’s important to note that some surfaces may require a special primer for optimal adhesion. Make sure to take into account the specific needs and use of the baby furniture to select the perfect paint for the type of surface and intended use.

What is a safe DIY paint option?

Old fashioned milk paint is a natural, centuries-old painting safe DIY paint option that’s known for its durability, versatility and ease of application. It’s made from a combination of milk proteins( casein), lime and pigments and is free from VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), making it a safe and non-toxic choice for furniture and other surfaces. Milk paint is especially popular for its distinctive chalky finish that can give a piece of furniture an ‘aged’ or ‘distressed’ look.

You can use it on a variety of surfaces, including wood, metal, glass and masonry, and it’s easy to blend with other colours to create custom shades and different colors. Just bear in mind that milk paint is a traditional product and may need some special handling or preparation to guarantee good adhesion and an even finish.

How do you make Old Fashioned Milk Paint?

There are lots of recipes online to try but a popular version is below.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of skim milk powder
• 1 cup of warm water
• 2 tablespoons of lime putty or hydrated lime
• Natural pigments or food coloring (optional)

Directions:

First, whisk the skim milk powder and warm water together in a medium bowl until combined. Then slowly add the lime putty or hydrated lime while continuously whisking until the mixture is smooth. If you want, add natural pigments or food coloring to get the shade you like. After that, pour the paint into a container with a tight-fitting lid and let it sit undisturbed for 24-48 hours. Finally, give it a stir and use a brush or roller to apply it to whatever surface you’re painting. It’s worth noting that the consistency could vary depending on the type of milk powder and lime putty used, so you may need to experiment a bit to get the desired result.

It’s also important to note that this may not be as durable or last as long as commercial paint options and sealing with a non-toxic option is recommended.

Are all zero-VOC paints non-toxic?

It’s important to note that not all zero-VOC paints are necessarily considered safe or non-toxic. Despite containing very low or no levels of VOCs, which can be harmful to our health, some zero-VOC paints may include other less-than-ideal ingredients. For instance, they may contain heavy metals such as lead and synthetic elements which have not been sufficiently tested. To guarantee that you’re using a safe, non-toxic zero-VOC paint, look out for certifications from organizations like Green Seal or the EPA (environmental protection agency). This signifies that the paint has been evaluated for safety and meets environmental and health standards.

If I am painting an old piece of furniture myself with new paint, what steps should I take?

If you’re planning to paint an old piece of furniture yourself, these steps will help you to do it safely and successfully:

• Start with preparation: Give the surface a good clean to get rid of any dirt, grime or oils. If there are any rough spots, sand them down, and fill any cracks or holes with wood filler.
• Pick the right paint: Choose a non-toxic, low-VOC paint that is suitable for the surface you are working on – check the safety standards set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
• Put on a primer: Apply a primer that is designed for the surface you are painting to help the paint stick better.
• Time to paint: Use a brush or roller to apply the paint in thin, even coats. Allow each coat to dry completely before adding more.
• Complete the project: Once the last coat of paint has dried, you may want to add a clear coat or sealer to protect the surface and increase the longevity of the paint.

Remember to work in a well-ventilated area and always wear protection gear like a respirator mask to protect yourself from dust particles.

Let me know which of these paint options you are considering swapping for conventional paints. Paint is such an easy way to change the entire feel of a room and choosing a safe option is always a good idea since it’s not something most people are typically swapping our constantly.

If you are looking for more safe non-toxic kid options check out toy guide!