Best Zero-VOC Paint Brands for a Safe & Healthy Nursery
I know mama, you’ve got a million things on your plate as you get ready for your baby’s arrival. Between reading stroller reviews, researching names (that you and your partner agree on), and dodging well-meaning belly comments from strangers, you’ve got enough to do without worrying about hidden chemicals lurking in paint. But the truth is, most traditional paints contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that off-gas into the air for months—and you don’t want your baby breathing that stuff for hours while they’re snoozing away in their brand-new nursery. Thankfully, there’s good news: Zero-VOC paint brands are here to save the day (and your peace of mind).
Let’s take a look at some of the best zero-VOC paint brands for a safe and healthy nursery—and I’ve even got some tips on how to color match from other brands, just in case you’ve got your heart set on a specific hue.
1. AFM Safecoat: The Non-Toxic Hero
AFM Safecoat is a legend in the low-tox world, and for good reason. This brand is all about keeping your home—and your baby—safe from harmful chemicals. Their paints are free from VOCs, toxic fumes, and other chemicals, making them one of the safest options for your nursery. Plus, they offer a wide range of beautiful, earthy tones, so you’re bound to find the perfect shade for your space.
Why It’s Great: AFM Safecoat is known for being one of the safest, most reliable zero-VOC brands on the market. They even offer a line of products specifically designed to seal and protect surfaces from hidden toxins, which is a bonus when you're trying to create the healthiest environment possible.
Where to Buy: AFM Safecoat is available online here and samples are available here. They are also available regionally in third-party paint centers, you can look for the closest one here.
2. Clare Paint: Stylish & Safe
Clare Paint is quickly becoming a fan favorite among eco-conscious decorators—and for good reason. Not only is it zero-VOC, but it’s also free from other harmful chemicals like formaldehyde and phthalates. Plus, the paint goes on super smoothly with a rich, durable finish. The best part? Clare offers stick-on color swatch samples so you can test your colors mess-free. Their color selection is more limited, which can be good if you get analysis-paralysis, or tricky if you are looking for a very specific hue.
Why It’s Great: Clare Paint makes it easy to transform your nursery with safe, vibrant colors. Their paint is made with a smooth, low-sheen finish, meaning it’s durable, easy to clean, and totally baby-friendly.
Where to Buy: You can purchase Clare Paints and sticker swatches through their website.
3. ECOS Paints: Ultra-Safe, Eco-Friendly
When it comes to eco-friendly, zero-VOC paints, ECOS Paints is a true standout. They are highly transparent about their ingredients, the first paint manufacturer to have a DECLARE label and to be Red List Free. ECOS Paints uses plant-based ingredients and natural pigments, making it one of the safest options available for your baby’s nursery. What’s even better? They’re independently certified for indoor air quality, so you can rest assured that your nursery will be free from any off-gassing or toxic fumes.
Why It’s Great: ECOS Paints is a premium brand that prioritizes both safety and performance. Their formulas are non-toxic, odorless, and perfect for creating a healthy environment in your little one’s nursery. Plus, they’re certified by multiple green-building organizations, making them a top pick for eco-conscious parents.
Where to Buy: ECOS Paints are available online from their website.
4. Benjamin Moore Eco Spec: Accessible & Budget-Friendly
This low-VOC, zero-emission paint is designed to minimize the release of harmful chemicals into the air, making it an ideal option for creating a healthy, non-toxic environment for your little one. With its smooth, durable finish and exceptional coverage, Eco Spec provides both beauty and practicality, as it resists stains and is easy to clean—perfect for a nursery that will see plenty of spills and smudges. Plus, it’s GREENGUARD Gold Certified, ensuring it meets rigorous standards for indoor air quality.
Why It’s Great: Like ECOS Paints, Benjamin Moore’s Eco Spec has a DECLARE label and is Red List Free. It has endless color choices and is a familiar brand to most painters.
Where to Buy: Benjamin Moore paints are widely available in-person at many hardware stores, check here for one closest to you. You can also purchase paints and samples through their website.
5. Behr Pro i300: Zero-VOC & Budget-Friendly
Behr Pro i300 is a zero-VOC paint that offers great coverage, a smooth finish, and easy cleanability—all at a budget-friendly price. Its durable, scrubbable surface makes it a practical choice for nurseries, where little hands (and the occasional mess) are inevitable. This professional-quality latex paint has superior hide and coverage and superior touch-up.
Why It’s Great: Behr Pro i300 is an affordable zero-VOC option that’s easy to find at Home Depot. It’s a solid pick for parents who want a healthier paint without the high price tag.
Where to Buy: Behr Paints are conveniently available at Home Depot.
Why You Should Always Sample Paint First
Paint has a funny way of playing tricks on you—it can look perfect on a tiny swatch but completely different once it’s up on your walls. Natural light, artificial lighting, and even the colors of your floors and furniture all affect how a shade actually shows up in your space. Sampling your paint first gives you a chance to see it in different lighting throughout the day, so you can feel confident in your choice before committing. This is a step even ultra-experienced interior designers never skip—we always make time for a site visit to look at paint samples. A little extra effort now saves you from the headache (and expense) of repainting later!
The Final Word on Zero-VOC Paint for Your Nursery
My mission is to help you see that creating a safe and healthy nursery doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style. By sharing these zero-VOC paint brands, I hope you can rest easy knowing that your little one’s nursery is free from harmful paint fumes. Whether you choose AFM Safecoat, Clare Paint, or another trusted brand, I’m excited for you to create a space that promotes both comfort and health for your little one. Happy painting!
