The type of wall paint we use affects our health.
The selection of wall paints involves many more factors than many might initially think. The right paint not only influences the aesthetics of the walls but also affects our health. Properties of paints, such as durability, cleanability, and environmental impacts, play a significant role in the products we choose. Before heading to the store, it is worthwhile to thoroughly research the available options on the market.
In addition, the VOC content of paints, meaning the amount of volatile organic compounds, is also an important factor. These substances can contaminate our homes by evaporating from the paints into the air and can cause various health problems. Environmental awareness is becoming increasingly important, so it is advisable to look for products that have eco-certifications.
Thus, selecting wall paint is not just an aesthetic issue; health and environmental considerations also play a significant role. It is crucial to consciously choose paints, taking into account the latest testing results and the ingredients of the products.
The Importance of VOC Levels
VOC, or volatile organic compounds, are substances that evaporate at normal atmospheric pressure and temperatures below 250 °C. These substances can come from various sources, such as outdoor air pollution, smoke from cooking, or even smoking. However, within the home, the most significant sources are furniture, curtains, carpets, as well as paints and other chemicals.
Long-term exposure to VOCs can lead to serious health problems, such as headaches, throat and eye irritation, dizziness, or even fatigue. Prolonged exposure can have more severe consequences, such as damage to the nervous system. Therefore, before purchasing, it is worth closely examining the VOC content indicated on the product label. The lower the VOC level, the better our choice is for our health.
When selecting paints, it is important to note that different manufacturers may offer products with varying VOC levels, so thoroughly reviewing the labels is essential for conscious purchasing. Eco-certified paints generally have lower VOC levels, providing an environmentally friendly solution.
Testing Wall Paints
Various types and brands of wall paints available on the market have been thoroughly tested to determine which are the best considering different aspects. In the tests, 19 different white wall paints were examined, including dispersion, lime, and chalk paints. Several factors were taken into account during the testing, such as coverage, opacity, and durability, all contributing to the final evaluation of the products.
The tests also paid special attention to health effects, such as the presence of allergenic preservatives and the composition of the products. The information content of the labels was also an important aspect, as it is essential for users to know what substances they are using in their homes. In the competition among products, eco-friendly labels also played a decisive role.
The winner of the test was Schöner Wohnen Polarweiss, which achieved the best results in terms of coverage and wet abrasion resistance, and it contains no health-hazardous preservatives and has low VOC content. Lime and chalk paints are also considered favorable choices as they have low or even zero VOC levels. Therefore, searching for eco-certified products not only helps reduce environmental impacts but also protects our health.
Choosing Environmentally Friendly Paints
Choosing environmentally friendly paints is becoming increasingly important for conscious consumers. Eco-certified products not only have a more favorable impact on the environment but also on our health. EU eco-labeled paints are products that have been proven to have a smaller environmental impact than similar alternatives.
Among the tested paints, five out of the top eight have eco-certifications, providing consumers with a wide range of options that ensure the desired appearance while also considering environmental aspects. When selecting the right paint, not only the brand reputation but also the product’s composition and effectiveness are important factors.
For conscious purchasing, it is advisable to thoroughly investigate the properties of different paints and consider the testing results. Environmentally friendly products can not only help beautify the walls but also contribute to creating a healthier home. Today, we no longer have to sacrifice quality for the sake of environmental consciousness; we can choose paints that meet both criteria.
