Ever walked into a freshly painted room and been hit with that strong “paint smell”? That’s not just an annoying odour—it’s a chemical cocktail of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) evaporating into the air. And here’s the kicker: you’re breathing them in.
What Exactly Are VOCs?
VOCs are chemicals that easily become airborne during and after painting. They’re added to conventional paints to help with drying, adhesion, and durability—but at a cost. Once released into the air, they react with sunlight and other pollutants to create ground-level ozone, a major component of smog. Yep, the same pollution that makes city skylines look hazy is coming straight from the walls of your home.
The Hidden Dangers of VOCs
While a little "new paint smell" might seem harmless, prolonged exposure to VOCs can cause:
Headaches, dizziness, and nausea (ever felt lightheaded after painting?)
Respiratory issues and worsening asthma symptoms
Sick Building Syndrome—when indoor air pollution makes you feel ill in your own home
Environmental damage—VOC emissions contribute to poor air quality and climate change
And get this: some VOCs (like formaldehyde and benzene) are even classified as carcinogens.
VOCs + Sunlight = A Toxic Mix
When VOCs meet sunlight, they oxidize and break down into harmful ground-level ozone. This is why cities with high pollution and hot climates suffer from worse air quality. The same process happens in your home—especially in sunlit rooms where off-gassing continues long after the paint has dried.
Why Low-VOC Paint is the Smarter Choice
Switching to low-VOC or zero-VOC paint isn’t just a trend—it’s a necessity. Harlequin Paints has been at the forefront of creating ultra-low VOC paints that are safe, high-performance, and environmentally responsible.
By choosing a low-VOC paint, you get:✅ Better indoor air quality—no more headaches or lingering toxic fumes
✅ Eco-friendly painting—reducing your carbon footprint without sacrificing durability
✅ A healthier home—especially for kids, pets, and anyone with respiratory sensitivities
Final Thought: Paint Smart, Breathe Easy
Your walls shouldn’t be releasing invisible pollutants into your home. If you’re still using high-VOC paints, you’re basically turning your living room into a gas chamber (okay, that’s a bit dramatic—but not entirely wrong).
Switch to Harlequin’s low-VOC paints and enjoy a beautifully painted home without the toxic consequences.
Comments