Is it safe to paint the nursery whilst pregnant?

Dreaming of your ideal nursery is a natural part of baby planning. From the cot to the perfect colour scheme – putting some work into the room is probably a given.

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This might include having to paint the walls your favourite pastel hue. So you might be wondering, is it safe to do this yourself? Evidence is inconclusive on the serious impacts on your baby from paint and fumes so therefore it’s best to limit your exposure to these. The reason being that paint contains solvents which when inhaled may cause health issues in your baby. Some studies suggest that there may be a higher risk of miscarriage or birth defects.

A few tips for staying safe:

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If the room has to be painted keep these tips in mind:

• If someone is willing to, ask a friend or family member to paint the room while you stay somewhere else
• Choose to paint on a weekend where you can go about and do things outside of the house
• Book a hotel for a quick night away with zero stress
• If you will be in the house – make sure to have good ventilation. Keep plenty of windows open!
• Avoid eating or drinking while in the room
• Wear a mask to keep particles and fumes away
• Keep gloves, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt on to keep your skin safe
• Find a paint that is labeled “zero-VOC” or water-based (acrylic/latex) – these are much safer than oil-based ones
• Leave the room immediately if you start feeling dizzy, nauseous, or fatigued at all

Overall, you don’t have to be overly afraid of painting if you take the right precautions. However, if you would feel more comfortable having someone else do the painting, take the opportunity to get out of the house and your job can be shopping and decorating the room!

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Frequently asked questions

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1. What types of paint are safe during pregnancy?

Water-based paints, such as latex or acrylic, are considered safer during pregnancy.

2. When is the best time to paint the nursery during pregnancy?

The second trimester is the ideal time to paint the nursery, as it’s a period of relative stability in pregnancy.

3. How can I minimise exposure to paint fumes while pregnant?

Ensure proper ventilation, take frequent breaks, and use masks to minimise exposure to paint fumes.

4. Are there specific paint brands recommended for pregnant women?

Look for brands that offer low-VOC or zero-VOC paints, as these emit fewer harmful fumes.

5. What are the risks of inhaling paint fumes while pregnant?

Inhaling paint fumes can pose risks like headaches, nausea, and potential harm to the baby if exposed to high levels of VOCs.

6. Can I paint the nursery myself or should I hire a professional?

You can paint the nursery yourself if you follow safety precautions, but hiring a professional is an option if you want to avoid exposure entirely.

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Sources

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Healthline, Is Painting During Pregnancy a Good Idea?, April 2020.
The Bump, Safety Scoop: Can You Paint the Nursery While Pregnant?, February 2023.

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