Hylea
Paint & Varnish
Coatings applied to walls, furniture, and surfaces for color and protection. Conventional paints contain VOCs that off-gas for weeks to months after application.
Why It Matters
VOCs released during application and curing period. Can affect indoor air quality for months. Old paint may contain lead. Children may ingest paint chips.
Chemicals of Concern in This Product
VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds)
A broad category of chemicals that easily evaporate at room temperature, releasing gases into...
Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde Releasers
A colorless gas used as a preservative, disinfectant, and textile finishing agent. In clothing,...
Ammonia
A pungent gas dissolved in water, used as a cleaning agent and in hair dyes to open hair...
Lead
A toxic heavy metal that was once commonly used in paint, plumbing, and many consumer products....
Ingredient Red Flags
Watch for these on ingredient labels:
- Strong paint smell
- Oil-based paints (higher VOC)
- No VOC information
- Paint from before 1978 (may contain lead)
What to Look For
- ✓Zero-VOC or low-VOC formulas
- ✓No added formaldehyde
- ✓Lead-free (mandatory in new paint but check old paint)
Finding Safer Options
Zero-VOC paints from Benjamin Moore Natura, Sherwin-Williams Harmony, or ECOS Paints. Milk paint and clay paint for natural options.
Certifications to Look For
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