When it comes to home painting, indoor air quality may not be the first thing that comes to mind, but it should be. Many people may not know that most new furniture, especially lower-quality options, can release formaldehyde and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, which may linger in your home.
This guide aims to equip you with a deeper understanding of formaldehyde, VOCs, as well as the potential dangers they pose, particularly from new furniture that may release these chemicals into your home environment.
Formaldehyde is a colourless, flammable gas with a strong-smelling odour that is commonly found at room temperature. Although they are widely used for their preservative and disinfectant properties, they are nonetheless also classified as carcinogens, a chemical substance capable of causing cancer when exposed at a high level or extensive period.
As for VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), they are a group of human-made chemicals mainly utilised in household products such as varnishes and cleaning products. When applied, they are often released into the air where they can remain for an extended period, negatively impacting indoor air quality.
When airborne for a long duration, both Formaldehyde and VOCs are capable of causing a range of potential health hazards, such as:
● Headaches
● Nausea
● Nasal Congestion
● Eye, Skin, and Throat Irritation
● Kidney & Liver Damage
● Increased Risk of Cancer with Prolonged Exposure
A collaborative pilot study by Nippon Paint Malaysia and Universiti Putra Malaysia measured formaldehyde and total VOCs in both public and private buildings across Klang Valley. The findings revealed that newer air-conditioned buildings, including homes, had higher formaldehyde levels compared to older structures, though still within safe limits. Despite meeting safety thresholds, the elevated levels in new buildings suggest potential risks to occupant health and comfort.
Despite their major presence in paints, Nippon Paint continues to uphold the importance of sustainability such as Nippon Paint with its eco-friendly Green Choice series. Endorsed by The Singapore Green Label, it uses water-based formulas with near-zero VOCs while containing no presence of mercury or lead, thereby making it an enjoyable, almost odour-free experience during and after painting. Another great choice would be the Nippon Paint Spot-Less Plus series and Nippon Paint Odour-Less AirCare.
Nippon Paint Spot-Less Plus Series is a range of interior paints which not only offers superior hiding power and smooth finishing but also reduced splattering during application. Formulated with Silver Ion Technology, this series prevents the growth of viruses, bacteria, mould, and fungi on surfaces, thereby providing extra protection in indoor environments for both humans and pets alike.
More importantly, Nippon Paint Spot-Less Plus helps to effectively improve indoor air quality by reducing formaldehyde present in the air. Our AirGuard Technology actively absorbs formaldehydes and transforms them into harmless water vapour, creating a safer environment for your family.
Nippon Paint Odour-less AirCare is designed to keep your home not just beautiful, but healthier too. Unlike regular paints, it actively absorbs formaldehyde, a common indoor pollutant found in furniture, carpets, and household products and turns it into harmless water vapour. That means cleaner, fresher air for you and your loved ones every day.
It’s also virtually odour-free, so you can paint without the discomfort of strong smells, and move back into your space sooner. With anti-bacterial protection and easy-to-clean surfaces, your walls stay fresher and more hygienic, even in busy family areas. Plus, its smooth finish and long-lasting colours ensure your home looks as good as it feels.
Choosing a paint that contains anti-formaldehyde and less low VOC matters greatly for children, who are particularly sensitive to pollutants as their respiratory and immune systems are still developing. Babies, with their rapid breathing, are even more vulnerable to airborne chemicals. In fact, a 2010 pediatric study found a strong link between formaldehyde exposure and childhood asthma, highlighting the risks these pollutants can pose for young children and infants.
A plus key attribute of it would be its Anti-Stain Technology. With it, walls stay cleaner and safer for little ones, giving parents a peace of mind in every corner of the home no matter if its pencil scribbles or food stains.
By using certified low-emission paints like Nippon Paint Green Choice Series, Nippon Paint Spot-Less Plus series and Nippon Paint Odour-Less AirCare, you can enjoy formaldehyde-free air and better indoor quality in bedrooms, nurseries, and schools, thereby creating a safer environment for children and infants.
Selecting the right premium quality paint such as Nippon Paint not only delivers a pristine and beautiful finish but also protects the overall wellbeing of your loved ones, enabling them to breathe easily and fully enjoy the ambience of their revamped home.
Note: The colour shades displayed are indicative and not precise representations of our actual paint colours.
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