Is it safe to sleep in a room that’s just been painted?

This question is commonly asked by homeowners, especially when children or elderly family members are involved.

The answer depends entirely on what type of paint you use in the bedroom.

• It is completely safe to sleep in a room the same day it is painted if you use Zero-VOC paint. Zero-VOC paint is virtually odorless and does not emit toxic chemicals that can produce long-term adverse health effects when inhaled. Two great VOC-free paints are Benjamin Moore’s Natura® and Sherwin Williams Harmony®.
• If you are using a low-VOC, water-based paint with a “Green Seal” logo of any kind, it is also okay to sleep in the room the same day paint is applied. However, the paint will still smell for 24 hours or more. Typically the smell will lessen in 2-3 days if you keep a window open and/or a fan blowing. If it is a child’s room, you may want to wait 16 -24 hours after painting to let your child sleep in the room.
• Paint that is not eco-friendly or is oil-based may take quite a bit of curing time. Although the paint may dry within 2-8 hours after painting, it could take over 2 weeks for the released toxins to abate. With this type of paint, no one should sleep in a freshly painted room for at least 2 weeks, especially not small children or elderly persons.

In order to play it safe, we recommend using only Zero or Low-VOC paints for all home interiors. However, almost all paints on the market today are safe for the home because of the strict EPA regulations (especially in California), so you don’t have to be overly concerned.

If you have any further questions, contact Chism Brothers at 858-454-3850.