This is a common question among new and expecting mothers. Painting the nursery is one the first things on the to-do list, or you may have time to paint the walls in your kitchen. So is it safe to paint around a baby? That depends. Here are some things to consider before painting around your child.

Choose Paints With Low VOC

Most paints contain harmful chemicals called VOC’s – VOC stands for volatile organic compounds. They are released into the air when paint drys and can be transferred through skin contact from wet paint. Paint with high levels of VOC can reduce the IQ of developing fetuses, so it’s important for pregnant women to choose paints with low levels of VOC. Whether you’re painting the nursery or getting your kitchen cabinets repainted, choose low VOC. When you hire a professional, be sure to ask about what kinds of paints they use and whether or not they have low levels of VOC. Sound Finish only uses low VOC paints when repainting your kitchen or bathroom cabinets. They will also remove the cabinet doors and drawers and paint them outside your home, making sure you are safe from any harmful chemicals.

Wear Proper Clothing

Since VOC’s can be transferred through skin contact it’s important for pregnant women to wear long sleeves, long pants, and gloves to avoid skin exposure to the chemicals.

Ventilate the House

While painting, take frequent breaks outside to get fresh air, and make sure the room you are painting is properly ventilated. Open windows, turn on fans, and make sure your child isn’t in the room that you are painting. It’s best to keep them as far away as possible.

Hire a Sitter

While taking all of these precautions is helpful, it is safest to have your child out of the house while painting. It’s not the worth the risk of causing long-term effects such as increased risk of cancer, liver damage, kidney damage, central nervous system damage, and brain development problems.

Sound Finish Professional Cabinet Painting and Refinishing Services

Sound Finish Provides the highest quality cabinet coatings in the industry because cabinet coatings are our primary focus and our specialty. With 20+ years of experience, our unique system paints your kitchen cabinets in 2-3 days!
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