Eco-friendly painting: Why I switched to clay paints and the difference it made

Hey everyone! :herb: I recently took on the challenge of repainting my living room and decided it was the perfect opportunity to dive deeper into the world of eco-friendly paints. After some research and a bit of trial and error with a few brands, I landed on EarthHue Clay Paints and wow, what a game-changer! The texture and depth of color are unlike anything I’ve experienced with conventional paints. Plus, knowing it’s made from natural clay and minerals, without any synthetic additives, gives me peace of mind about its environmental impact.

Before settling on clay paints, I experimented with a couple of other eco-friendly options, including a milk paint and a lime wash. While both had their merits, especially in terms of breathability and mold resistance, I found the application process a bit finicky for my taste. The clay paint, on the other hand, was a dream to work with. It adhered beautifully to my plaster walls, and the coverage was impressive with just two coats. The matte finish it leaves behind is stunning and really brings out the natural light in the room.

I’m curious to hear from others who’ve made the switch to natural paints. What has your experience been like? Have you tried clay paints, and if so, how do they compare to other eco-friendly options you’ve used? Also, for those who haven’t yet taken the plunge, what’s holding you back? Let’s share our stories and tips to help each other make more sustainable choices in our home projects!

Great post, @GreenThumbJenny! I’ve been on the fence about switching to natural paints, but your experience with EarthHue Clay Paints sounds promising. I’m particularly interested in the matte finish you mentioned. How does it hold up over time, especially in high-traffic areas?

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I’ve been using BioShield Clay Paint for a couple of years now, and I can’t recommend it enough. The color saturation and durability are top-notch. Plus, it’s VOC-free, which is a huge win for indoor air quality. @GreenThumbJenny, have you noticed any difference in air quality since switching?

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@MountainHiker99, the matte finish has held up surprisingly well! Even in high-traffic areas, it’s maintained its look without any noticeable wear. I was a bit skeptical at first, but it’s proven to be quite durable.

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@EcoWarriorSam, I definitely noticed an improvement in air quality. It’s subtle, but there’s a freshness that wasn’t there before. BioShield sounds like a great option too! How does it compare in terms of application ease?

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I tried a lime wash for my bathroom and, while I love the look, it was a bit of a nightmare to apply. Reading about your experience with clay paints, @GreenThumbJenny, makes me want to give them a try. Any tips for a first-timer?

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@DIYQueen, definitely go for it! My top tip would be to ensure your walls are properly prepared. Clay paint adheres best to porous surfaces, so if your walls are glossy, a light sanding can make a big difference. Also, don’t skimp on the primer if the brand recommends it.

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Has anyone tried mixing their own natural paints? I’ve seen some recipes online using clay, chalk, and natural pigments. It seems like a fun project, but I’m curious about the longevity and coverage compared to store-bought options.

@NatureLover23, I’ve dabbled in making my own paints. While it’s rewarding, getting the consistency and color right can be tricky. Store-bought options tend to offer better coverage and durability, but homemade paints are great for small projects or artistic endeavors.

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I’m all for eco-friendly options, but the price point of some natural paints is a bit steep for my budget. Does anyone have recommendations for more affordable natural paint brands that don’t compromise on quality?

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@SunnyDaysAhead, I hear you on the price concern. While EarthHue was an investment, I’ve heard good things about EcoProCote as a more budget-friendly option. It’s worth checking out if you’re looking to save a bit without sacrificing eco-friendliness.

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Hey @GreenThumbJenny, your experience with EarthHue Clay Paints sounds amazing! I’ve been curious about natural paints but worried about durability. You mentioned the matte finish is stunning, but how does it handle scuffs or marks? I’ve got kids and pets, so my walls see a lot of action.

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I switched to clay paints last year and haven’t looked back. The difference in air quality in my home was noticeable almost immediately. For those worried about durability, I’ve found that a good quality sealer can really help protect the finish without compromising the eco-friendly benefits.

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Interesting read! I’ve been using milk paint for a while now, and while I love the finish, it’s definitely a bit more work. Might have to give clay paints a try for my next project. How do you find the color selection compared to conventional paints?

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I’ve been curious about clay paints for a while now, especially after hearing so many good things. The part about the matte finish really catching the light has me intrigued. I wonder, though, how does it hold up over time? Like, does it fade or chip easily?

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Switching to eco-friendly paints was a big step for me too. I went with a different brand, but the difference in air quality was noticeable almost immediately. No more headaches or that weird paint smell lingering for days. It’s a game-changer for sure.

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I tried BioShield Clay Paint in my kitchen last year, and honestly, I was a bit skeptical at first. But the durability has been impressive. Even with all the cooking and occasional splatters, it still looks as good as new. Definitely worth the switch.

The application process for clay paints sounds so much easier than what I went through with lime wash. I spent hours trying to get it just right, and it still didn’t turn out how I wanted. Maybe I’ll give clay paints a shot for my next project.

I haven’t made the switch yet, but this thread is convincing me to give it a try. The environmental aspect is a huge plus, but I’m also interested in the health benefits. Has anyone noticed any improvements in allergies or respiratory issues after switching?

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It’s great to see more people talking about eco-friendly painting options. I think the biggest hurdle for most is the initial cost and the fear of the unknown. But once you try it, the benefits far outweigh the cons. Let’s keep sharing our experiences to help others make the leap.

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