Adding a new layer of paint can make your home or business look brand new. But while you're making things pretty, it's important to think about how it affects the environment.

Regular painting can create a lot of waste and release harmful chemicals into the air. But don't worry. There are things you can do to make painting more eco-friendly and better for the planet.

1. Choose Low-VOC Paints

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are gases that come from certain liquids or solids. They're often human-made and found in things like paint, cleaners, and even medicines.

Breathing in VOCs can be bad for your health, causing irritation, difficulty breathing, and even more serious issues like nerve damage or cancer. They can also mix with other chemicals in the air and cause pollution, which affects the climate.

To paint your home or business in a healthier and more eco-friendly way, look for paints and supplies with low VOCs. Only buy as much paint as you need, and make sure to keep cans closed when you're not using them.

When you're painting, open windows and use fans to help keep the air moving and reduce VOC levels indoors.

2. Utilize Recycled Paints

It's surprising but true, you can buy paint made from recycled materials. Some companies take old paint and turn it into new paint, which is a great way to keep things sustainable.

When you're finished painting, it's important to dispose of your leftover paint properly. You can throw away dry paint in the trash, but many states don't allow oil-based paint in landfills.

Since rules about paint disposal change depending on where you live, it's best to check the guidelines before getting rid of any paint.

3. Choose the Right Brushes and Rollers

Many regular paint brushes and rollers are made from materials that won't break down for a very long time if they end up in a landfill. But there are better options out there.

Look for brushes and rollers made from natural materials like cotton, bamboo, or wood. You can also find tools made from recycled materials for an even greener choice.

4. Prep and Clear Responsibly

Getting your home or business ready for painting is key to a great finish, but some cleaning products have chemicals that aren't good for the environment. Try to find eco-friendly options, or even make your own using simple stuff you probably already have, like baking soda and vinegar.

Homemade cleaners aren't just better for the planet—they're also cheaper, which is a win-win.

5. Salvage and Upcycle

There are a bunch of things you need to paint your home or business, like brushes, rollers, tape, and clothes. Try to reuse as much as you can to be more eco-friendly.

Instead of using disposable plastic, you can protect your floors with old sheets. Wash them when you're done and use them again next time. Instead of buying new trays, use old containers and rinse them out to use again.

You'll probably need to buy new brushes and rollers, but you can make them last longer by taking care of them. Rinse them out as soon as you're done using them to keep them from drying out. You can also store them in the fridge to stop the paint from drying while you take a break.

If you take good care of your stuff, you can use it for your next project or let a friend borrow it to paint their place, which means less new stuff being made.

River City Painting Services

For top-notch painting, trust River City Painting. We specialize in both indoor and outdoor painting, committed to giving homes and businesses across Helotes the perfect refresh. Ready to begin? Reach out to us today and discover how we can transform your space.