Is Limewash Paint Safe for Indoor Air Quality?
Limewash is one of the lowest-VOC wall finishes. What it contains, how it affects humidity and mould, and how to handle it safely while it is applied.
Yes. Limewash paint is one of the lowest-VOC wall finishes you can choose. It is made from lime, water and mineral pigments, with little or no binder, and it has almost no smell once dry. It also lets walls breathe and resists mould.
What limewash contains
Limewash is slaked lime, water and earth or mineral pigments. Some modern versions add a small amount of binder to help it stick to drywall. Check the product data sheet if you need it to be completely binder-free.
Why it is good for indoor air
Very low or zero VOCs.
Breathable. Moisture can move through the wall.
Mould-resistant. Lime is strongly alkaline.
No plastic film. The surface is mineral.
During application
Wet limewash is alkaline and can irritate skin and eyes, so applicators wear gloves and eye protection. Floors and furniture are covered. Once dry, the surface is safe to touch.
Good rooms for limewash
Bedrooms, nurseries, living rooms and older homes with plaster walls.
Primers
Painted drywall needs a mineral primer. Ask for a low-VOC primer if air quality is a priority.
Next step
Frequently asked questions
Is limewash paint non-toxic?
Limewash is made of lime, water and mineral pigments, with very low or zero VOCs once dry. Wet limewash can irritate skin, so applicators wear protection.
Is limewash safe for a nursery?
Yes. It is very low in VOCs, has little smell and is breathable.
