Can clay paint help regulate indoor humidity levels? Share your experiences

Hey everyone! :herb: I’ve been diving deep into the world of natural paints for my latest home renovation project, and I stumbled upon something fascinating—clay paint. Not only is it eco-friendly, but I’ve heard it can actually help regulate indoor humidity levels. Has anyone else tried this? I’m particularly curious about brands like Earthborn or Argile, which seem to be popular choices among eco-conscious DIYers.

In my quest for a healthier home environment, I’ve experimented with a few natural paints before, including milk paint and lime wash. While I loved their aesthetic and minimal environmental impact, I’m intrigued by the idea of a paint that could also contribute to a more balanced indoor climate. From what I’ve gathered, clay paint’s porous nature allows it to absorb and release moisture, potentially helping to stabilize humidity levels. But I’m wondering, how effective is it really? And what surfaces have you found it works best on? I’m considering using it in my living room, which tends to get a bit damp in the winter.

I’d love to hear your experiences with clay paint—whether it’s about its humidity-regulating capabilities, application tips, or any challenges you’ve faced. Also, if you’ve compared different brands, which one would you recommend and why? Let’s share our knowledge and help each other create more sustainable and comfortable living spaces! :earth_africa::green_heart:

I’ve been using clay paint in my home for about two years now, and I can definitely vouch for its humidity-regulating properties. My living room used to feel like a rainforest in the summer and a desert in the winter, but since switching to clay paint, it’s been much more comfortable. I used the Earthborn brand, and I’m really happy with the results. It’s not just about the humidity though; the texture and depth of color you get with clay paint are unmatched. Highly recommend giving it a try!

4 Likes

@GreenThumbGary That’s exactly the kind of feedback I was hoping for! It’s great to hear that Earthborn worked so well for you. Did you apply it directly over existing paint, or did you have to prep the walls in a specific way? Also, how many coats did you need for good coverage?

2 Likes

@EcoPainterJane I prepped the walls by giving them a good clean and then applied a primer recommended by Earthborn. It’s important to make sure the surface is absorbent for the best results. I ended up doing two coats, but it really depends on the color you’re going for and the original wall color. Darker colors might need an extra coat. The application was pretty straightforward, just make sure to stir the paint well before and during use!

3 Likes

I tried Argile clay paint in my bathroom, thinking it would help with the moisture, but I didn’t notice a huge difference. Maybe it’s because the bathroom is such a high-humidity area? I love the look and feel of the paint, though. It’s got this beautiful matte finish that really adds character to the space.

1 Like

@SandyShoreSam Interesting point about the bathroom. I wonder if the effectiveness of clay paint in regulating humidity varies by room. Thanks for sharing your experience with Argile; it’s helpful to hear different perspectives!

2 Likes

Has anyone compared Earthborn and Argile side by side? I’m curious about the differences in texture and application. Also, does one brand have a better color range than the other?

@DIYDan I haven’t used Argile myself, but from what I’ve seen, Earthborn has a slightly finer texture, which I prefer for a smoother finish. As for colors, Earthborn offers a wide range, but I think Argile might have a few more unique shades. It really comes down to personal preference and the specific look you’re going for.

1 Like

I’ve been curious about clay paint too, especially for its eco-friendly aspect. I haven’t tried it yet, but your experience with Earthborn sounds promising. I wonder, though, how does it hold up in high-traffic areas? I’m thinking of using it in my hallway, but I’m worried about wear and tear.

4 Likes

That’s interesting about the humidity control. I’ve been using a dehumidifier in my basement, but I’m always looking for more natural solutions. Do you think clay paint would work in a basement setting, or is it more suited for above-ground rooms like living rooms and bedrooms?

2 Likes

I tried Argile in my kitchen, and while I love the look, I did notice it can be a bit tricky to clean. Spills seem to absorb quickly, and I’m still figuring out the best way to clean them without damaging the paint. Has anyone else had this issue, or found a good cleaning method?

I’ve used Earthborn clay paint in my living room and noticed a slight improvement in humidity levels, especially during the winter months. It’s not a miracle worker, but it does help. The texture and depth of color you get with clay paint are unmatched, though. It really brings a room to life. I’d recommend giving it a try, especially in areas that aren’t as prone to extreme humidity like bathrooms.

4 Likes

Interesting to hear about your experience with Argile in the bathroom. I’ve been considering clay paint for my kitchen, which also gets pretty humid. Maybe it’s more about managing expectations with clay paint. It’s not going to replace a dehumidifier, but it can contribute to a more balanced environment. Plus, the eco-friendly aspect is a big win for me. Have you tried any other natural paints in high-humidity areas?

1 Like

I’ve actually used both Earthborn and Argile in different rooms of my house. Earthborn has a smoother texture which made it easier to apply, especially on walls that weren’t perfectly smooth. Argile, on the other hand, has a bit more of a natural, earthy texture which I loved for a feature wall. Color-wise, Earthborn definitely has a broader range, but Argile’s colors have this unique depth to them. It really depends on what you’re going for.

I tried Argile in my bathroom to test its humidity-regulating claims, and I was pretty impressed. The room felt less damp, and there was no mold growth, which was a big win. I haven’t tried Earthborn yet, but I’m curious if it performs similarly in high humidity areas. Does anyone have experience with Earthborn in bathrooms or kitchens?

1 Like

I’m all about the texture and application ease, so I went with Earthborn for my living room. The application was a breeze, and it dried evenly without any streaks. I haven’t noticed a huge difference in humidity levels, but the room does feel fresher. Maybe it’s the paint’s natural composition. I’d love to hear if others have noticed a significant impact on humidity.

I’ve been debating between these two brands for my bedroom. I’m leaning towards Argile because I’ve read it’s more breathable, which sounds perfect for regulating temperature and moisture. Has anyone used Argile in a bedroom setting? How did it affect the room’s comfort levels, especially during different seasons?

I used Earthborn in my home office, and while I love the color I chose, I did find it a bit challenging to touch up. The texture difference was noticeable. I’m curious if Argile is easier to touch up or if it’s a common issue with clay paints. Also, has anyone mixed brands in the same room? I’m thinking of trying Argile for an accent wall but worried about consistency.

4 Likes