When it comes to painting your home, your choices matter.
Choosing your perfect colour is important, but understanding what’s in your paint and choosing a safe paint for your home is more important. Many traditional paints—and even ‘low VOC’ paints can still contain harmful chemicals, so it's important to understand the risks of VOC's.
Here’s everything you need to know about VOCs, and why Verus Paint is the clean, luxurious alternative you can trust.
What are VOC's?
VOCs—or Volatile Organic Compounds—are chemicals that evaporate into the air as paint dries. They’re commonly used in traditional paints as solvents to help with application and fast drying. The “paint smell” you notice after decorating? That’s VOCs being released into your home—a process called off-gassing.
This doesn’t end once the paint has dried. VOCs can continue to off-gas for weeks, months, or even years, impacting your indoor air quality and overall health.
Harmful VOCs commonly found in traditional paints include:
• Benzene
• Formaldehyde
• Ethylene Glycol
• Ethylbenzene
• Toluene
• Xylene
• Hexane
• 1,2,4-Trimethylbenzene
• Cyclohexane
Why are VOC's harmful?
The effects of VOCs range from short-term irritations to serious long-term health risks.
Short-term exposure can cause:
• Headaches
• Dizziness and nausea
• Eye, nose, and throat irritation
Long-term exposure may lead to:
• Chronic respiratory issues such as asthma
• Allergic skin reactions
• Nervous system impairment
• Increased risk of cancer, as some VOCs (like formaldehyde and benzene) are known carcinogens.
Those particularly vulnerable are individuals with health issues, respiratory problems or allergies, children, pregnant women and pets.
The Problem with ‘Low VOC’ and ‘Natural’ Paints
Low-VOC or natural paints claim to reduce toxins, but these options come with their own concerns. Studies, including one from Karlstad University and Harvard, found that even low-VOC water-based paints can release Propylene Glycol Ethers (PGEs), a compound linked to a higher risk of asthma, hay fever, and eczema in children.
Many 'Natural Paints' are made with organic ingredients that can be prone to mould, mildew, and bacterial growth, particularly in damp or poorly ventilated areas. This can compromise your indoor air quality and even lead to health concerns over time.
Why Verus Paint Is Truly Different
100% VOC-Free
Free from harmful off-gassing chemicals, Verus Paint ensures cleaner, healthier air from day one.
Zero Odour
No lingering paint smell—just beautifully painted spaces you can enjoy immediately.
Toxin-Free
Verus Paint contains no harmful toxins, giving you complete peace of mind.
Antibacterial Properties
Verus Paint is formulated with built-in antibacterial properties that prevent the growth of mould, mildew, and bacteria. This ensures your walls remain cleaner and healthier for longer.
A Safer, Healthier Home
With Verus Paint, you can help create a home environment that’s free from harmful chemicals and bacteria.
Luxurious Colour and Lasting Quality
Enjoy stunning, rich colours and premium performance. Verus Paint delivers exceptional coverage, durability, and a flawless finish—without compromising on safety.
Environmentally Friendly
VOCs don’t just harm indoor air quality; they also contribute to outdoor pollution. Choosing Verus Paint reduces harmful emissions and supports a cleaner, greener planet.