Toxic Paints Philippines Guide | Healthy Indoor Painting Tips

Toxic Interior Paints in the Philippines – and How to Protect Your Health

A must-read for builders, homeowners, and anyone planning to live or rent in tropical homes

1. The Hidden Risk Behind Freshly Painted Walls

On the surface, many Filipino homes look clean and new — with bright, glossy walls.
But what’s not seen can hurt you: toxic fumes, heavy metals, and solvents from low-grade paint products.

Many paints sold and used in the Philippines contain high levels of VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), formaldehyde, and industrial solvents — especially if they are low-cost or not specifically intended for indoor use.

2. Why Toxic Paints Are Still Common in the Philippines

Lack of regulation

There are no nationwide enforcement standards for VOC content or interior air quality in residential construction.
Toxic substances that are banned or restricted in Europe or the US are still present in cheap, local paint brands.

Price over safety

Most buyers and contractors choose paint based on price per 18-liter drum — sometimes below ₱1,000.
Eco-safe or imported brands can cost twice as much, making them less common in mass housing or small projects.

Wrong paint type used indoors

It is common to find Quick-Dry Enamel, Epoxy, or even metal primers used indoors — products designed for industrial surfaces, not bedrooms.
These paints contain solvents like toluene, xylene, or benzene — all harmful to humans when inhaled.

3. Health Risks of Toxic Paints

Long-term exposure to indoor paint chemicals can cause:

Headaches and fatigue

Eye and throat irritation

Asthma and breathing issues

Skin allergies and rashes

Nervous system damage

Long-term developmental effects in children

Toxic compounds can leak into the air for months or even years after application — especially in airconditioned or poorly ventilated rooms.

4. How to Choose Safe, Non-Toxic Paint

Look for paints labeled:

Low VOC or Zero VOC

Water-based or odorless

Designed for interior residential use

With available Technical Data Sheets (TDS) and MSDS

Trusted brands in the Philippines:

Boysen Healthy Home

Davies Bio-Fresh

Nippon Odour-less AirCare

Jotun Majestic True Beauty

Avoid products that don’t list ingredients, have industrial labels, or smell harsh even after drying.

5. Painting Tips for a Healthier Home

Always use indoor-grade paint — no enamel or epoxy inside bedrooms

Ventilate rooms for 7 to 14 days before moving in

Ask for MSDS and check VOC content

Hire trained painters with proper masks

Use primer and filler that are also VOC-safe

Do not paint during rainy season unless you can ensure proper drying

6. Final Thought: Paint Is Not Just Decoration

In the Philippines, awareness of air quality and chemical exposure is still limited. But you can choose differently.

Especially in airconditioned homes, bedrooms, baby rooms, or small apartments — toxic paint can turn comfort into danger.

Building a healthy home starts with what goes on your walls.

Autor: Nils Deden