Painting

Soverthis · October 2015

Hello ladies! I did a search and nothing popped up. I want to paint my nursery. My research is inconclusive. Some say its ok as long as ventilated and some say its not. What are your thoughts of painting while prego? I just know I will do a better job than my hubs!

candicek15 · October 2015

From what I've heard it is okay as long as it is well ventilated. Paints these days are almost always low VOC.

Bear14+ · October 2015

I stay on the cautious side with paint. I say it's not worth the risk.

crdo · October 2015

I asked my doctor yesterday about what home reno projects I should avoid, including oil-based poly, paint, sanding, etc. She said all is fine as long as the area is WELL- ventilated, and I wear a respirator mask. So, ultimately the decision is up to you.

likeabel · October 2015

I believe the biggest risk is falling. The paints now are so low odor but your balance is way off. I painted a few rooms when I was pregnant with DS and almost fell off the ladder. Keep the windows open, fans on and take lots of breaks! And put your phone on the floor - easier to get to if you do fall. Or just make your SO do the painting

blondie1314 · October 2015

I asked dr last time around. He said painting is fine if it's well ventilated. He said paint is not what it used to be.

FutureMrsCAF · October 2015

DH and I are wrapping up some home projects this week, including painting the dining room and hallway. I have dibs on the dining room bc it will have more fresh air than the hallway. Like PPs said, paint is not what it used to be. I remember it being quite stinky as a kid, but I don't notice much of a smell when I paint.

Corts · October 2015

I painted my whole house inside at 6 months pregnant. And the front porch. Damned if it wasn't done perfect. I was fine, baby was fine.

NicknShan · October 2015

A mask won't do anything for painting unless you are sanding... just FYI. If you are sanding, wear a mask.

The concern is over the VOCs in the paint. These days, most paint that you can buy in stores are low VOC, and I would just use them in ventilated areas. I work in industrial hygiene/air quality so as long as it is OSHA safe, it is safe for pregnancy.

If you aren't sniffing paint fumes in a closed room you are fine. Also, don't eat it.

If you really want to go the extra mile for peace of mind, there are no VOC paints available, but the quality and durability will not be as good, and the paint will take forever to dry.

Have fun with the nursery. Share pics :-)