Top 7 Non-Toxic Paint Brands in NZ

Non-toxic paints are safer for your health and the environment. They reduce harmful chemicals like VOCs, which can linger in your home for years, affecting air quality and causing health issues. In New Zealand, these paints are gaining popularity due to their natural ingredients, certifications, and eco-friendly formulations. Here are the top 7 non-toxic paint brands to consider:

1. Natural Paint Co.: Plant- and clay-based, B Corp certified, transparent ingredient lists.
2. Resene (Eco Choice): No added VOCs, Environmental Choice certified, wide availability.
3. Dulux (Breatheasy): Low-VOC options, GreenTag Platinum certified, available at major retailers.
4. Bio Paints: Zero/low VOCs, natural ingredients like plant oils and minerals.
5. Aalto Paints: Low-VOC Scandinavian formulas, 360 rich colors.
6. Porter’s Paints: Low-VOC ranges, Global GreenTag certified, over 400 colors.
7. Breatheasy Paints: Asthma & allergy friendly certified, 99% solvent-free.

Quick Comparison Table

Brand	VOC Content	Key Certifications	Where to Buy
Natural Paint Co.	Zero harmful chemicals	B Corp, LBC Red List Free	Online, select retailers
Resene Eco Choice	<1% VOC	Environmental Choice, Green Star eligible	Resene ColorShops
Dulux Breatheasy	<0.5 g/L VOC	GreenTag Platinum, Eco Choice Aotearoa	Bunnings, paint stores
Bio Paints	Minimal VOCs	EU Ecolabel (some products)	Eco stores, online
Aalto Paints	Low VOC	Eco Choice Aotearoa	Selected retailers, online
Porter’s Paints	Low to 0 VOC	Global GreenTag, PaintBack participant	Porter’s stores
Breatheasy Paints	99% solvent-free	Asthma & Allergy Friendly	Crown Paint stockists

Non-toxic paints improve indoor air quality, reduce environmental impact, and are perfect for families, pet owners, or anyone with chemical sensitivities. Choose a brand that fits your needs and enjoy a healthier home.

NON-TOXIC PAINT: The Safer and Smarter Option

What Makes a Paint Non-Toxic?

Choosing a truly non-toxic paint requires looking beyond flashy marketing claims. Non-toxic paints are designed to minimize risks to both health and the environment by avoiding harmful chemicals that could impact your family’s well-being.

A key factor to consider is the paint’s VOC content. VOCs, or Volatile Organic Compounds, are carbon-based chemicals that evaporate easily at room temperature, releasing gases into the air you breathe. Oil-based paints typically contain 35–50% VOCs, while water-based paints average around 6%. Alarmingly, only half of these VOCs are released in the first year, with the remainder continuing to off-gas for years. This makes it crucial to choose paints with verified low VOC levels.

Some non-toxic paints rely on natural ingredients. However, even natural formulations may include trace amounts of VOCs, so it’s important to understand the specifics of what you’re buying.

VOC Levels to Look For

When shopping for healthier paints, pay attention to VOC levels. The EPA suggests that low VOC paints should contain fewer than 50 g/L. In comparison, the Australian Paint Approval Scheme defines low VOC paints as having between 5–49 g/L, while very low VOC paints contain less than 5 g/L. For the best indoor air quality, aim for paints with VOC content under 25 g/L.

Some companies have taken significant steps to reduce VOCs further. For instance, Resene’s "no added VOC" products contain less than 1% VOCs, a reduction of over 90% since 1980. Meanwhile, Natural Paint Co. emphasizes the importance of avoiding conventional low VOC paints altogether, stating that these still include harmful chemicals that can seep into the air.

Certifications That Matter

Certifications can simplify the process of identifying truly non-toxic paints. In New Zealand, the Environmental Choice New Zealand certification is the country’s official environmental label. Products with the EC-07-17 license also qualify for building credits under GBCA Green Star, NZGBC Green Star, and Homestar programs. Another important certification is Eco Choice Aotearoa, which adheres to ISO 14024 global standards and covers a range of products, including paints, primers, varnishes, and sealants.

Certification	What It Means
Environmental Choice New Zealand	Indicates reduced environmental impact; New Zealand’s official eco-label
Eco Choice Aotearoa	Meets ISO 14024 standards for eco-labeling; includes paints, primers, and sealants
EC-07-17 License	Qualifies for Green Star and Homestar building credits

These certifications are a quick and reliable way to ensure the paint you’re choosing aligns with non-toxic standards.

Tips for Choosing Non-Toxic Paints

To make an informed choice, always go beyond surface-level claims. Request a full list of ingredients and review the product’s Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). Even when opting for natural paints, transparency about the composition is key. Look for the EC logo on product containers or data sheets to confirm compliance with the Eco Choice program.

Non-toxic paints help reduce exposure to chemicals that can cause irritation, nausea, headaches, and respiratory problems. Some VOCs are linked to more severe health issues, such as liver and kidney damage, central nervous system harm, and even an increased risk of cancer.

With New Zealanders purchasing roughly 22 million liters of decorative paint annually, choosing non-toxic options can significantly benefit both personal health and the environment.

How to Choose Non-Toxic Paint Brands

Picking a non-toxic paint brand involves more than just grabbing the first "eco-friendly" label you see. Since indoor air is often more polluted than outdoor air, the paint you choose plays a big role in your home’s air quality. Let’s break down the key factors to consider before making your decision.

Understanding VOC Content Beyond the Label

VOC (volatile organic compound) levels are a major factor, but numbers on the label don’t always tell the full story. For reference, low-VOC paints typically have fewer than 50 grams of VOCs per liter, while zero-VOC paints contain less than 5 grams per liter. However, these labels often don’t account for VOCs added during tinting, which can significantly increase the overall levels.

For example, a "zero-VOC" base paint can turn into a medium-VOC product once tinted. To avoid surprises, ask brands about their tinting systems and whether they use low-VOC colorants.

It’s also important to think about VOC emissions over time. Some paints may have a low initial VOC content but continue to release chemicals (a process called off-gassing) for years. While most latex paints off-gas for three to five years, certain conditions can extend this period to as long as 10 years.

Demanding Full Ingredient Transparency

The best paint brands go beyond vague claims and provide full ingredient lists and Safety Data Sheets (SDS) to help you make informed decisions.

"We share ingredient lists for our products to help you make an informed buying decision." – ECOS Paints

Why does this matter? Some harmful additives, like APEs, PFAS, or endocrine-disrupting antimicrobials, don’t release VOCs but can still pose health risks. Having access to a detailed ingredient list helps you avoid these hidden hazards.

Look for brands that clearly state what they exclude from their formulations. Many so-called "natural" or "zero-VOC" paints can be misleading if ingredient labels are vague or incomplete. Trustworthy companies will also share details about their manufacturing processes and ingredient sourcing, helping you feel confident in your choice.

Trusting Third-Party Certifications

Independent certifications are another way to ensure you’re choosing a healthier option. Certifications like Greenguard, Scientific Certification Systems (SCS), and Green Seal can help identify paints with lower emissions and better safety standards.

For consumers in New Zealand, the Environmental Choice New Zealand certification is a reliable guide. This official labeling program highlights products with a reduced environmental impact compared to similar options. It’s particularly relevant for paints and building materials, ensuring you’re making a safer choice for your home.

When evaluating certifications, focus on those with transparent testing methods, a strong reputation, and recognition within the industry.

Evaluating Durability and Performance

Even the safest paint needs to hold up over time. Look for paints that offer good durability, coverage, and easy maintenance. Water-based paints are a popular choice because they dry quickly and have less odor, while oil-based options tend to emit higher levels of VOCs.

Think about the specific needs of each room. Kitchens and bathrooms benefit from moisture-resistant paints that can handle frequent cleaning, while bedrooms are better suited for low-emission options to support a healthier sleep environment. Some brands even offer specialized formulations for different applications without compromising their non-toxic standards.

Checking Local Availability and Support

A smooth painting project also depends on practical factors like availability and customer support. Make sure the brand you choose is easy to find locally and offers help with issues like color matching, technical guidance, and warranty concerns. Some international brands may have limited color options or longer wait times for special orders, which can cause delays.

Additionally, look for brands that provide clear application instructions and strong technical support. Opt for fragrance-free products and ensure the manufacturer offers advice on proper ventilation and application techniques, especially if you’re painting in New Zealand’s unique climate conditions.

1. Natural Paint Co.

Grace and James Mount founded Natural Paint Co. with a clear mission: to replace petrochemicals and outdated paint formulas with plant- and clay-based alternatives. By incorporating ingredients like titanium dioxide and calcium bicarbonate, they’ve set out to reshape industry standards. Their focus on natural formulations also brings attention to how their approach to VOCs (volatile organic compounds) enhances indoor safety.

VOC Content

Natural Paint Co. partnered with some of New Zealand’s top paint chemists to create formulas that deliver the same – or better – performance as traditional paints, but without harmful chemicals. Co-founder James Mount shared:

"We found some of New Zealand’s top paint chemists, one of them in the industry for 40 years, and we tasked them with basically can we create a product which is as good as or better than what’s on the market, but we don’t want to use any ingredients that have any known health effects on humans or animals during or after painting. And we want to prioritize natural ingredients."

Their paints also feature a low-odor application, making indoor projects more comfortable for homeowners.

Environmental Certifications

Natural Paint Co. stands out as Australasia’s first B Corp coatings company, achieving an impressive B Impact Score of 98.8. They’ve also earned Ākina Certification and LBC Red List Free status, demonstrating their commitment to both environmental and social responsibility. Beyond certifications, the company’s customers have contributed to saving over 4 million square feet of rainforest, with an ambitious goal to protect 107.6 million square feet within the next two years. These achievements highlight their dedication to sustainability and ethical practices.

Ingredient Transparency

Transparency is central to Natural Paint Co.’s philosophy. They’re the only New Zealand paint company that lists every ingredient – both included and excluded – right on the can. Each ingredient undergoes thorough testing to ensure it poses no health risks. This level of openness is particularly important, considering that traditional chemical paints can release toxins into the air for up to a decade after application. With indoor air often being 2–5 times more polluted than outdoor air, their approach offers peace of mind for health-conscious consumers.

Range of Colors and Finishes

Natural Paint Co. stays true to its principles while offering a wide array of colors and finishes. Their product line covers both interior and exterior applications, with formulations tailored to New Zealand’s unique climate. By using natural pigments and steering clear of synthetic colorants, they ensure even the boldest or darkest shades meet strict health and environmental standards.

2. Resene (Eco Choice/No Added VOC Range)

Resene has been a trusted name in New Zealand for years, known for its dedication to environmentally friendly practices. Since joining the Environmental Choice program in 1996, Resene has consistently balanced sustainability with high-quality products. This commitment shines through in their impressive approach to VOC reduction.

VOC Content

Resene’s "no added VOC" paints and tinters are a standout feature. With VOC levels under 1% and primarily water-based formulations, the company has slashed average VOC levels by over 90% since 1980. Currently, only 8% of their decorative paint range is solvent-based. Waterborne paints dominate their lineup, offering the added benefit of quicker drying times compared to solventborne options.

Environmental Certifications

Products certified under EC-07-17 have earned Level A recognition, making them eligible for GBCA Green Star, NZGBC Green Star, and Homestar credits. The Environmental Choice program, backed by the Ministry for the Environment, emphasizes reducing environmental impact throughout a product’s lifecycle – from production to disposal. To ensure you’re choosing an approved product, look for the EC logo on Resene’s product data sheets and paint containers. Beyond certifications, their diverse offerings solidify their status as a leader in the non-toxic paint market.

Range of Colors and Finishes

Resene provides a wide range of Eco Choice-approved paints, stains, and specialty finishes for both interior and exterior projects. Their Decorative Colourants deliver a vast selection of colors without adding VOCs. For instance, Resene Zylone Sheen Zero offers all the benefits of the popular Resene Zylone Sheen, but with no added VOCs. Thanks to advancements in waterborne technology, products like Resene Enamacryl, Resene Lustacryl, and Resene SpaceCote waterborne enamels now allow for Environmental Choice-approved options in applications that previously required solventborne paints. Their high-quality tinters ensure consistent color performance for both indoor and outdoor use, with most colors needing just two topcoats for full coverage.

3. Dulux (Breatheasy and low-VOC lines)

Dulux has been a trusted name in New Zealand homes for decades, leading the charge in low-VOC paint innovation since the 1990s. As the largest producer of water-based paints in New Zealand and Australia, the brand has consistently focused on creating healthier indoor spaces while maintaining top-quality performance.

VOC Content

Dulux’s dedication to minimizing harmful emissions is evident in its Airsure range, which is about 99.9% VOC-free, with a VOC content of less than 0.5 grams per liter. This range includes options like Diamond Matt, Vinyl Matt, and Super Matt, all designed to deliver high performance without compromising air quality. While trace amounts of VOCs remain, Dulux adheres to strict transparency standards, avoiding misleading "Zero VOC" claims often seen in the industry. For reference, U.S. standards allow products with less than 5 g/L VOC to be labeled as "Zero VOC".

"As there will always be trace amounts of VOC in paints, there is no such thing as a truly 100% VOC-free or Zero VOC paint." – Dulux Trade Airsure FAQs

The Breatheasy collection further reflects Dulux’s commitment to improving indoor air quality, offering non-toxic solutions that align with their emphasis on health and safety. This focus is supported by extensive certifications and transparent practices.

Environmental Certifications

Dulux goes beyond reducing VOCs by securing certifications that highlight its environmental and health-focused efforts. The envirO₂™ range, for example, has earned Declare® Red List Free certification from the International Living Future Institute and Global GreenTag™ certification. Additionally, UltraAir® products meet GREENGUARD Gold standards, ensuring low chemical emissions and independent verification of their eco-friendly features.

Dulux paints also contribute to green building certifications like Green Star, WELL, LEED, and the Living Building Challenge. In New Zealand, the envirO₂™ range holds Eco Choice Aotearoa recognition (License No: 705019) and has achieved a Platinum rating from Global GreenTag™. These accolades underscore Dulux’s commitment to both sustainability and high-performance building standards.

Ingredient Transparency

Dulux prioritizes transparency with detailed Environmental Product Declarations for its envirO₂™ line. The company also emphasizes sustainable packaging, using pails and lids made from 50% recycled plastic for the envirO₂™ range. Additionally, products in the Dulux Trade Airsure line are designed to have equal or lower carbon footprints compared to standard formulations.

"Dulux is committed to the ongoing research and development of innovation that reduce the environmental impact of our products, without affecting their outstanding performance." – Dulux Trade

Range of Colors and Finishes

Dulux offers a wide variety of colors and finishes across its low-VOC lines. The Simply Refresh collection features a mix of timeless and modern shades, while the Simply Refresh Feature Wall range provides bold, vibrant colors in just one coat. The Easycare Washable & Tough line comes in pre-mixed colors or can be custom-tinted to match any preference. For durability, Airsure Diamond Matt is tough enough to withstand up to 10,000 scrubs. To keep designs current, Dulux’s color experts analyze global trends and select an annual Color of the Year, blending style with health-conscious formulations.

4. Bio Paints

Bio Paints represent a shift toward natural paints that care for both human health and the planet. Unlike traditional paints packed with synthetic chemicals and solvents, these paints are crafted with ingredients like water, plant oils, natural dyes, essential oils, and minerals such as clay and chalk.

VOC Content

One of the standout features of Bio Paints is their ability to achieve zero or extremely low VOC (volatile organic compound) levels. Brands like BioShield offer low-odor options that avoid the harmful emissions typically found in conventional paints. This makes them a safer choice for indoor spaces.

The absence of synthetic solvents and chemical additives in their formulas eliminates the primary sources of VOC emissions. This natural approach not only reduces environmental impact but also promotes healthier living conditions.

Environmental Certifications

Bio Paints have gained recognition through respected environmental certifications, highlighting their commitment to eco-friendly practices. For instance, Baril Coatings’ biobased paints carry the EU Ecolabel and the A+ label, which signify minimal emissions and adherence to strict European environmental standards.

The EU Ecolabel focuses on reducing environmental impact by promoting responsible use of raw materials, energy, water, and waste while limiting hazardous substances and packaging waste. As REACH24H explains, bio-based certifications not only assure consumers of a product’s green credentials but also help businesses connect with the growing market of environmentally conscious buyers.

Ingredient Transparency

Transparency is a core value for Bio Paints. They fully disclose their ingredient lists, catering to consumers who want to know exactly what goes into the products they use. Made from recognizable natural elements instead of synthetic compounds, these paints meet the demand for clarity and non-toxic solutions. Some brands even go so far as to reveal every single ingredient in their formulations.

Range of Colors and Finishes

Although Bio Paints focus on natural components, they don’t sacrifice style. Using plant dyes, essential oils, and mineral pigments, these paints offer a wide range of natural colors to suit various interior design needs. They’re also breathable, which helps prevent mold growth without the need for added antimicrobials or fungicides. This combination of functionality and aesthetic variety makes them a versatile option for non-toxic interior design.

sbb-itb-9c940a9

5. Aalto Paints

Aalto Paints brings over 35 years of experience in crafting paints designed specifically for New Zealand’s unique climate. This locally established brand is known for its commitment to quality and environmental care, making it a popular choice for both homeowners and professionals who prioritize health and sustainability. Here’s how Aalto Paints blends eco-conscious practices with a broad selection of colors.

VOC Content

Aalto Paints stands out as a low-VOC option, meeting stringent air quality standards in both New Zealand and internationally. Their color system relies on low-VOC tinters, ensuring consistency across their entire palette. Additionally, their water-based formulas are free from harmful additives like APEs, formaldehyde, and heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, mercury, and arsenic.

Environmental Certifications

The brand proudly holds the Eco Choice Aotearoa accreditation and is an ISO 14024-certified member of the Global Ecolabelling Network. As Aalto Paints explains:

"In a market filled with ambiguity, the Eco Choice Aotearoa accreditation provides confidence that what you’re buying is better for the planet and safe for you and your family."

Range of Colors and Finishes

Aalto Paints doesn’t just focus on safety – it also delivers a stunning palette of 360 colors. These shades are created using multi-pigmented formulations, incorporating up to 10 colorants to achieve rich, complex hues. Their range caters to both interior and exterior needs, offering finishes like low-sheen, gloss, and satin for exterior projects. For example, the Ultra Premium Exterior Low Sheen line is priced between NZ$61.05 and NZ$273.35 plus GST.

For interiors, Aalto provides water-based enamel options in low-sheen and semi-gloss finishes, as well as satin formulations ideal for high-moisture spaces like kitchens and bathrooms. With a 15-year guarantee on their products, Aalto also makes it easier for customers to select the perfect shade through their online Paint Selector tool.

6. Porter’s Paints (Natural/low-VOC range)

Porter’s Paints has earned a reputation for its thoughtfully curated color palettes and dedication to reducing environmental harm. The brand places a strong focus on lowering indoor air pollutants and minimizing its overall environmental footprint. By offering paints with low volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and adhering to efficient waste management practices, Porter’s Paints ensures both user health and eco-consciousness are at the forefront of their products. Let’s dive into what makes their low-VOC formulations and environmental certifications stand out.

VOC Content

Porter’s Paints offers products that meet strict APAS classifications, ranging from very low VOC (<5 g/L) to low VOC (5–49 g/L). Their Lime Wash is completely emission-free (0 VOC), and the Acrylic line is designed to be low-odor with very low VOC levels. This is particularly important since indoor VOC concentrations can significantly exceed outdoor levels.

Environmental Certifications

In early 2023, the brand’s Eggshell Finish achieved Global GreenTag GreenRate™ Level A Certification, recognizing its high environmental and performance standards. Heather Goode, Technical, Quality, and Color Services Manager at Porter’s Paints, highlighted the importance of trustworthy eco-labels in the industry:

"Consumers are looking for reputable, environmentally-conscious labels in their paint. There’s a lot of greenwashing in the market."

This certification confirms that the Eggshell Finish is manufactured responsibly, prioritizing ecosystem protection and safer indoor air quality. Beyond this, Porter’s Paints is also a founding participant in PaintBack®, a national program focused on collecting and treating leftover paint. These initiatives underline the brand’s leadership in eco-friendly practices.

Range of Colors and Finishes

Porter’s Paints boasts a collection of over 400 colors, crafted using a precise multi-tinting system. Their finishes include matt, satin, and specialty options, all available in low-VOC formulations. The Capsule Collection offers everything from timeless whites and neutrals to bold, vibrant hues. In March 2019, they added 44 new colors through the Smooth Impasto and Color Collection 16 ranges.

Designer Matt Woods shares his perspective on the brand:

"Porter’s ticks all the boxes for me. A great selection of finishes with natural depth and texture, and with low VOC it’s a no-brainer from a sustainability perspective. I love warm neutrals like Wood Smoke and Lambs Wool, and often use Specialty Finishes like the stunning French Wash, and Palm Beach Black for its versatility with timbers."

To help customers find the perfect shade, Porter’s Paints offers sample pots for testing at home and free consultations with their color experts. This personalized approach ensures customers feel confident in their choices while enjoying the benefits of eco-conscious, beautifully crafted paints.

7. Breatheasy Paints

Breatheasy Paints has carved a niche in New Zealand’s non-toxic paint market by focusing on healthier indoor spaces. Known for its strict testing protocols and efforts to eliminate harmful substances, the brand aims to reduce respiratory irritants and allergens. Crown Paints, the company behind Breatheasy, has developed formulations that blend performance with health-conscious design.

VOC Content

Breatheasy Paints has significantly reduced VOC emissions thanks to advanced formulation techniques. Its paints are 99% solvent-free. This is a critical advantage, as indoor VOC levels can be up to ten times higher than outdoor concentrations.

This achievement positions Breatheasy Paints among the lowest-emission options available in New Zealand, underscoring its commitment to healthier indoor air quality and paving the way for respected environmental certifications.

Environmental Certifications

Breatheasy Paints proudly holds the asthma & allergy friendly® certification, a distinction that sets it apart from many competitors. This certification involved rigorous testing, including placing painted surfaces in controlled environments and monitoring emissions over 14 days. Allergy Standards, the organization behind the certification, also evaluated the raw materials to ensure allergen levels were kept below strict thresholds.

John Murphy, Technical Director at Crown Paints, highlighted the importance of this recognition:

"I truly felt that the Asthma & Allergy Friendly® label had the potential to offer real and meaningful choice and additional benefits to our customers…"

Additionally, Crown Trade’s Clean Extreme Clean Air and Extramatt paints meet BREEAM and LEED regulations, two globally respected green building standards.

Ingredient Transparency

While Breatheasy Paints does not fully disclose its ingredients through Health Product Declarations (HPDs) or Declare Labels, it prioritizes the exclusion of harmful substances. The 99% solvent-free formulation eliminates most petroleum-based solvents, which are common culprits in indoor air pollution.

The asthma & allergy friendly® certification process also involved a thorough review of raw materials to ensure allergens were minimized. This approach addresses concerns about additives like alkylphenol ethoxylates (APEs) that are often found in conventional acrylic paints.

Crown Trade has further advanced its offerings by developing air purifying technology in its Clean Extreme Clean Air line. This innovation actively absorbs formaldehyde from the air, improving indoor air quality with every coat.

Range of Colors and Finishes

Breatheasy Paints offers an extensive selection of colors and finishes, ensuring low-emission properties across all sheen levels, from matt to satin. These paints perform just as well as traditional options, delivering excellent drying time, scrub resistance, and adhesion while maintaining their health-focused benefits.

The lineup includes specialty products like Clean Extreme Clean Air, which combines low-emission features with active air purification. This demonstrates how Breatheasy continues to push boundaries, creating paints that not only avoid harmful substances but also contribute to cleaner indoor environments.

Brand Comparison Table

Here’s a comparison of top non-toxic paint brands in New Zealand, focusing on VOC levels, certifications, and where you can purchase them.

Brand	VOC Content	Key Certifications	Where to Buy
Natural Paint Co.	Zero harmful chemicals; all ingredients tested	Internal testing protocols	Online direct; selected retailers
Resene Eco Choice	Below 1% VOC; no added VOC formulation	Environmental Choice; ISO 9001, ISO 14001; GBCA Green Star eligible	Resene ColorShops; major retailers
Dulux Breatheasy	Low VOC waterborne formula	Global GreenTag Platinum; Environmental Product Declaration	Bunnings; paint specialists
Bio Paints	Natural mineral and plant-based; minimal VOCs	–	Specialty eco stores; online
Aalto Paints	Low VOC Scandinavian formula	–	Selected retailers; online
Porter’s Paints Natural	Low VOC natural range	–	Porter’s Paints stores
Breatheasy Paints	Low VOC formulation	asthma & allergy friendly®	Crown Paint stockists

This table gives a quick snapshot, but let’s dive into what sets these brands apart.

Understanding the VOC Differences

VOC (volatile organic compound) levels vary significantly between brands. Resene’s "no added VOC" paints, for instance, contain less than 1% VOC – an impressive 90% reduction compared to traditional formulas. However, keep in mind that "VOC-free" doesn’t always mean a completely healthier indoor environment.

Certification Standards Matter

Certifications can be a reliable indicator of a brand’s health and environmental priorities. Dulux’s envirO₂™ range, for example, carries the Global GreenTag Platinum certification and an Environmental Product Declaration. Meanwhile, Breatheasy Paints is certified as asthma & allergy friendly®, making it a solid choice for sensitive households.

Availability Considerations

When it comes to accessibility, brands like Resene and Dulux stand out, thanks to their presence in major retail outlets like Resene ColorShops and Bunnings. On the other hand, specialty brands such as Natural Paint Co. and Bio Paints are primarily sold online or through eco-focused stores. If you’re opting for these, it’s a good idea to plan your purchase in advance to ensure availability.

Finding Professional Painters for Application

Even the best non-toxic paints can fall short without skilled application. Professional painters bring a level of expertise that ensures your eco-friendly paint performs as intended, especially when dealing with specialized low-VOC or environmentally conscious formulations.

Why Professional Application Matters

Using non-toxic paints often involves specific techniques, specialized tools, and unique drying times that differ from traditional paints. This is particularly true for premium brands like Resene’s Eco Choice range or Natural Paint Co.’s formulations.

Professionals ensure surfaces are properly prepared – cleaned, sanded, and repaired – to help the paint adhere effectively. They also manage ventilation, which is crucial even for low-VOC paints, ensuring their benefits are maximized. This preparation is key to achieving a durable, high-quality finish and underscores the importance of hiring a painter familiar with these details.

What to Look for in a Professional Painter

To get the most out of your eco-friendly paint, choose painters with experience using non-toxic and low-VOC products. Look for professionals who have worked with brands like Dulux Breatheasy or Porter’s low-VOC range.

Make sure the painter is licensed, insured, and able to provide references from recent projects involving non-toxic paints. Online reviews can also offer valuable insights, especially those that highlight eco-friendly applications. A detailed quote should clearly outline the products they plan to use, the number of coats, and the specific steps for surface preparation.

Finding Vetted Painters Through Builder Connect

In New Zealand, Builder Connect offers access to over 16,745 vetted tradespeople, including 420 painters in Auckland alone. The platform boasts an impressive 4.8 out of 5.0 average rating, based on 314,330 verified reviews.

Recent projects, such as a ceiling in Waterview and an exterior in Penrose, received perfect ratings for professionalism, punctuality, and communication. By specifying your preference for non-toxic paints and naming the brands you’ve chosen when posting your job, you can be matched with painters experienced in eco-friendly products.

Many professionals on Builder Connect also offer warranties on their workmanship and materials. This not only protects your investment but also ensures a healthy indoor environment, all while maintaining the durability and aesthetic of your eco-friendly finish.

Conclusion

Opting for non-toxic paints in your New Zealand home isn’t just about aesthetics – it’s a choice that can significantly improve indoor air quality. According to the EPA, indoor air can be up to ten times more polluted than outdoor air. That makes the type of paint you use a key factor in protecting your family’s health.

The seven brands highlighted here, from Natural Paint Co.’s mineral-based options to Resene’s Eco Choice range, are designed with health in mind. They’re particularly beneficial for households with children, pets, pregnant women, or elderly members.

But it’s not just about health. Non-toxic paints also deliver the durability and performance you’d expect from traditional paints. Many of these formulations come with the added bonus of low or no odors, meaning you can use freshly painted spaces almost immediately without the need for prolonged ventilation.

To get the most out of these benefits, proper application is key. Builder Connect’s network of trusted painters ensures that these high-quality paints are applied correctly, maximizing their health and environmental advantages while providing a long-lasting finish.

FAQs

Why should I choose non-toxic paint for my home in New Zealand?

Using non-toxic paint in your home isn’t just a choice – it’s a step toward creating a healthier space for your family. These paints are free from volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are known to trigger headaches, allergies, and respiratory problems. This is especially important for children or anyone with sensitivities. By choosing non-toxic options, you’re ensuring cleaner air and a safer environment indoors.

There’s also an added bonus: non-toxic paints are kinder to the planet. They help reduce harmful emissions, improve indoor air quality, and are often made using environmentally conscious methods. Whether you’re tackling a home renovation or starting a new project, picking non-toxic paint is a thoughtful way to prioritize both your family’s health and the world around you.

How can I tell if a paint brand is truly non-toxic and environmentally friendly?

To figure out if a paint brand is genuinely safe for your health and the environment, start by looking for certifications from reputable organizations like GREENGUARD or Green Seal. These certifications confirm that the paint has low VOC (volatile organic compound) emissions. Also, check for labels that specify the paint is zero VOC, water-based, or free of harmful solvents. Don’t forget to examine the ingredient list provided by the manufacturer to ensure it aligns with health and environmental guidelines. Choosing paints with these qualities not only promotes a healthier indoor environment but also supports eco-conscious living.

What should I look for when hiring a painter to work with non-toxic paints?

When hiring a painter to use non-toxic paints, look for someone with a solid track record working with low-VOC and eco-friendly options. It’s important to ask if they understand certified non-toxic products and their advantages, like enhancing indoor air quality and contributing to a safer living space.

Also, make sure they use top-quality, environmentally conscious paints and are dedicated to materials that align with your health and sustainability priorities. Selecting a painter who is well-versed in these products can help create a healthier, greener environment in your home.

Related posts

• Home Renovation Cost Guide: NZ Price Breakdown 2025
• Top 6 Home Improvement Projects That Add Value
• Comparing Quotes: Guide to Construction Pricing in NZ