What Paint Is Safe for Babies and When Should You Paint Their Room?
Preparing a nursery is one of the most exciting parts of getting ready for a new baby. From picking out furniture to choosing the perfect color scheme, every detail matters. But before you start painting, there’s an important question to consider: Is the safe paint for baby’s room?
Many traditional paints contain chemicals that can be harmful, especially for newborns. In this guide, we’ll break down the safest paint options for a baby’s room, the best time to paint, and key tips to ensure a healthy environment for your little ones.
Why Paint Choice Matters for a Baby’s Room
When you open a can of paint, that fresh-paint smell isn’t just an annoyance—it’s a sign that volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are being released into the air. VOCs are chemicals found in many conventional paints, and they can cause headaches, dizziness, and even long-term health issues with prolonged exposure.
Babies are particularly vulnerable to these chemicals because their immune systems and lungs are still developing. That’s why choosing a non-toxic, baby-safe paint is essential when decorating a nursery.
Best Types of Paint for a Baby’s Room
Not all paints are created equal. If you’re painting a nursery, look for these safe and non-toxic options:
1. Zero-VOC Paint
- The safest option for nurseries
- Contains no (or extremely low) volatile organic compounds
- Minimal odor and reduced risk of harmful off-gassing
- Brands to consider: Benjamin Moore Natura, ECOS Paints, Clare Paint
2. Low-VOC Paint
- Contains fewer harmful chemicals than traditional paints
- Some odor, but much lower than regular paint
- A good option if you need a wider range of colors and finishes
- Brands to consider: BenjaminMoore, Sherwin-Williams Harmony, Behr Premium Plus, Valspar Ultra
3. Natural or Plant-Based Paint
- Made from ingredients like water, clay, chalk, or essential oils
- Free from synthetic chemicals
- Some have a distinct earthy smell but contain no harmful fumes
- Brands to consider: AFM Safecoat, The Real Milk Paint Co., BioShield Paint
4. Water-Based Paint
- Dries faster than oil-based paints
- Easier to clean up and has fewer harsh chemicals
- Often used in combination with low-VOC or zero-VOC formulas
When Is the Best Time to Paint a Baby’s Room?
Timing is everything when painting a nursery. You want to ensure the room is completely dry and free of fumes before your baby arrives. Here’s a recommended timeline:
If You’re Expecting a Baby
- Paint at least 2-3 months before your due date
- This allows time for any lingering odors or VOCs to dissipate
- Keep windows open and ventilate the room as much as possible
If Your Baby Is Already Home
- Move them to another part of the house before painting
- Keep the room well-ventilated for at least a week after painting
- Avoid placing furniture or decorations in the room until the paint has fully cured
How Long Should You Wait Before a Baby Sleeps in the Room?
- For zero-VOC or natural paints: 48 hours
- For low-VOC paints: 7 days
- For regular paint (not recommended for nurseries): 2-4 weeks
Painting Tips for a Safe Nursery
Choosing the right paint is only half the battle. Here are some extra steps to ensure a baby-safe painting process:
1. Pick the Right Finish
•Matte or eggshell: Great for soft, non-glossy walls but harder to clean
•Satin or semi-gloss: More durable and easier to wipe down (ideal for nurseries)
2. Ventilation Is Key
•Open windows and use fans to circulate air
•Keep the room well-ventilated for several days after painting
3. Use the Right Painting Tools
•A low-VOC primer will help paint adhere better and improve air quality
•Choose high-quality, soft-bristle brushes and rollers for a smooth finish
4. Keep Your Baby Away from the Room
•Even with non-toxic paint, babies should not be present while painting
•If possible, plan a short family trip or stay in another part of the house during the process
5. Clean Up Properly
•Dispose of paint cans and brushes safely
•Wash hands and change clothes after painting to avoid carrying any residue
Choosing the Safe Paint for Baby’s Room
Beyond safety, color psychology plays a role in creating the perfect nursery and safe paint for baby’s room. Here are some popular nursery colors and their effects:
- Soft blues and greens → Calming and soothing
- Warm neutrals (beige, taupe, soft gray) → Cozy and comforting
- Pastel pinks and yellows → Cheerful and inviting
- White and off-white → Clean, bright, and adaptable for any décor
Avoid overly bright or dark colors, as they can feel overwhelming in a small space.
Should You Hire a Professional Painter?
While painting a nursery can be a DIY project, hiring a professional painting company like Regal Line Painting ensures:
A flawless, even finish
The use of the safest, highest-quality paints
Faster completion with no mess or stress
Expert advice on colors, finishes, and paint brands
If you want a beautifully painted nursery without the hassle, Regal Line Painting is here to help! We’ve been serving Fairfield County and Westchester County for nearly two decades, bringing expertise and care to every project.
In Conclusion:
Creating a safe, beautiful nursery starts with choosing the right paint. Zero-VOC, low-VOC, and natural paints are the best choices for keeping harmful chemicals out of your baby’s room. Make sure to paint well in advance, ventilate the room properly, and select calming colors to create the perfect environment.
Need help with your nursery painting project? Contact Regal Line Painting today for expert, baby-safe painting services in Fairfield County and Westchester County!
