Why More Homeowners Are Switching to Eco Friendly Paint in 2025
In this ever-changing, fast moving world many homeowners are not only thinking about the colour and finish of their homes, they’re thinking about what’s in the paint they use and where it came from. Over recent years there has been a growing awareness around environmental impacts and indoor air quality, which positively indicate that eco-friendly paints are beginning to become a smart, safe, and stylish way to style your living space.
But what actually makes a paint eco-friendly? And why should you care?
What Is Eco-Friendly Paint?
Eco-friendly paint might seem like a marketing swizz, but in actual fact - it isn’t. In fact, it is very much designed with people and the planet in mind.
This type of paint typically contains very little, to zero VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds). These VOCs are chemicals that evaporate into the air and cause health issues or unpleasant smells. The process is called ‘off-gassing’, which can go on for days and even weeks.Â
Eco-friendly paints are almost always made up from a majority of natural or recycled ingredients, instead of using synthetic chemicals, like acrylic resins and solvents. Some of these paints may include natural minerals instead like; Plant-based oils, Natural pigments (colouring), Clay, Chalk or Casein (milk protein), and other recycled paint bases from previous manufacturing runs.Â
Additionally, they have minimal environmental impact - from production to disposal. This means that eco-friendly paint brands look at the entire lifecycle of the product - what’s inside, how it’s made, how it’s packaged and then how it’s disposed of.Â
Why VOCs Matter
Volatile Organic Compounds are common in traditional paints and are responsible for that ‘new paint smell’. However, they can also:
- Irritate eyes, nose and throat
- Trigger asthma or headaches
- Contribute to indoor air pollution
- Impact the environment when release into the atmosphere
Thats why opting for low-VOC or zero-VOC paint is becoming the new standard, especially in homes with elderly residents, children or those with respiratory sensitivities.
Benefits of Eco-Friendly Paint for Your Home
Choosing eco-friendly paint isn’t just doing the ‘right thing’, it’s also about creating a space within your home that is genuinely better to live in. While the word ‘eco’ usually gets thrown around as a buzzword, there are real noticeable benefits.
Healthier indoor air = healthier living. When you cut down VOCs, that means better air quality. This is especially important if there are little ones, pets or anyone with asthma or allergies in the household.
Little to no odour. Many of the eco paints are water-based, with low odour so you’re not left airing out the newly painted room for several days after a fresh coat. A simple change, with a big difference.
Durable and high quality. A common misconception about eco-friendly paints is that they don't last long or aren’t hard wearing, which actually couldn’t be further from the truth. Eco paints have come a long way in recent years.
And finally, a better choice for the planet. Most eco-friendly paints are made with sustainability in mind, meaning lower carbon emissions, less water waste and smaller environmental footprint overall.
What Eco Paints Aren’t (And Why That’s Okay)
Let’s be clear - just because a paint is eco-friendly doesn’t mean it’s made entirely from natural ingredients. And honestly, that’s not a bad thing. A lot of the best eco paint brands find a balance between doing what’s right for the planet and still giving you a paint that actually performs well.
Some might still include a bit of synthetic material, but they’re low in VOCs, made more responsibly, and a much cleaner option than your standard paint.
At the end of the day, it’s not about being perfectly green, that would be impossible. But it’s about making smarter, healthier choices where we can.
Eco-friendly paint isn’t just a trend - it’s a smarter, cleaner way to decorate. Whether you’re giving the hallway a refresh or revamping a whole home, it’s a choice that’s better for you and the world around you.
Need help choosing the right one? We’re here to make it easy.
Get in touch with Marsh and Hall today
Whether you're planning a full renovation or simply looking to refresh a room within your home, Marsh & Hall offer expert craftsmanship and a reliable, professional service from start to finish. Don’t hesitate to get in touch—we’ll be delighted to help bring your vision to life.
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