How to Buy Non-Toxic Interior Paint

Look for an EPA registration number on paint cans. The EPA only regulates paints that contain toxic ingredients. For the same reason, stay away from paints regulated or restricted by OSHA or DOT.

Understand the difference between no or low-VOC paint, and non-toxic, natural paint. Most paint companies designate certain products as low VOC or low odor, which should not be confused with a non-toxic designation. Although low VOC paints have almost no odor and are much safer than conventional interior paints, they still contain harmful chemicals and can irritate the eyes, throat, lungs and skin.

Read paint ingredients carefully. Non-toxic interior paints contain natural, non-hazardous products like plant dyes, essential oils, milk protein, clay and resin.

Add a natural color tint. Conventionally color tints usually increase a paint's VOC content, so purchase premixed colors or buy specially designated non-toxic color additives to achieve a desired shade. Using natural pigments can limit color choices, but paint manufacturers recognize and are now responding to the demand for more non-toxic paint products.

Buy non-toxic paint products for interior project start-to-finish. Paint companies sell non-toxic primers, sealers and paint strippers.

Be prepared to spend a bit more. Non-toxic paint is often more expensive than conventional paint, but remodeling your home with products safe for your family and the environment is worth the additional cost.