Hey everyone! 
So, I recently took the plunge and decided to give my basement a fresh, eco-friendly makeover using natural milk paint from The Old Fashioned Milk Paint Co.. I was drawn to its simplicity and the fact that it’s made from all-natural ingredients like milk protein, lime, and earth pigments. Plus, the idea of using something biodegradable and non-toxic really aligned with my green living goals.
However, I hit a bit of a snag. My basement, like many, has its fair share of moisture issues. I was curious to see how the milk paint would hold up. After applying it to the walls, I noticed that while the color and finish were absolutely stunning, the paint seemed to react differently in areas with higher moisture levels. In some spots, it adhered beautifully, but in others, it took longer to dry and didn’t seem to bond as well.
This got me thinking about the compatibility of natural paints with different surfaces and environmental conditions. Have any of you tried using milk paint or other natural paints in moisture-prone areas? What was your experience like? Did you find any tricks or additional products that helped with adhesion and durability? I’m really keen to hear your thoughts and tips, as I’m planning to tackle a few more rooms in my house and want to make sure I’m choosing the best eco-friendly options for each space. Let’s discuss! 
Hey @EcoDiyEmma, your experience with natural milk paint in a moisture-prone area is fascinating! I’ve used The Old Fashioned Milk Paint Co. products before, but never in a basement. From what I understand, milk paint is quite breathable, which is great for moisture regulation, but it might need a bit of help in high-humidity areas. Have you considered using a natural primer or a moisture barrier before applying the paint? This could potentially improve adhesion and durability in those tricky spots.
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I love the idea of using natural paints, but I’ve always been a bit hesitant about their performance in damp areas. @EcoDiyEmma, did you notice any mold or mildew issues with the milk paint? That’s my biggest concern with moisture and natural products.
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@GreenThumbGary, thanks for the tip! I didn’t use a primer this time around, but I’m definitely considering it for my next project. Do you have any recommendations for a natural primer that works well with milk paint?
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@SandyShorelines, great question! So far, I haven’t noticed any mold or mildew, which is a huge plus. The paint’s breathability seems to help with that. However, it’s only been a few months, so I’m keeping a close eye on it.
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I’m just starting to explore natural paints, and this thread is super helpful! @EcoDiyEmma, how did you find the application process compared to conventional paints? Was it more labor-intensive?
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@BreezyBeachDays, the application was a bit different, but not necessarily more labor-intensive. The milk paint comes in powder form, so you mix it yourself, which allows you to adjust the consistency. It’s a bit of a learning curve, but once you get the hang of it, it’s quite satisfying! Plus, the finish is unlike anything you’d get with conventional paints.
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I’ve been using clay paint in my home, and it’s been fantastic for regulating humidity. It might be worth considering for your next project, @EcoDiyEmma. It’s another natural option that’s great for moisture-prone areas.
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@UrbanJungleJane, I’ve heard great things about clay paint! Do you find it easy to apply, and how does the finish compare to milk paint?
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Hey @EcoDiyEmma, your experience with natural milk paint in a moisture-prone area is fascinating! I’ve used The Old Fashioned Milk Paint Co. products before, but never in a basement. From what I understand, milk paint is quite breathable, which is great for moisture regulation, but it might need a bit of help in high-humidity areas. Have you considered using a natural primer or a moisture barrier before applying the paint? This could potentially improve adhesion and durability in those tricky spots.
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Interesting point about the primer. I’ve also heard that adding a bit of natural oil, like linseed oil, to the milk paint can help with moisture resistance. It might be worth experimenting with on a small section to see if it makes a difference. Also, how did you find the color selection? I’ve been looking for a good range of eco-friendly paints that don’t compromise on vibrancy.
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I tried milk paint in my bathroom, which is another high-moisture area, and had similar issues. What worked for me was ensuring the walls were as dry as possible before painting and using a dehumidifier during the drying process. It’s a bit of extra work, but the results were worth it. Have you thought about the long-term maintenance? I’m curious how it holds up over time with cleaning and touch-ups.
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That’s a good question about maintenance. I’ve been using milk paint for a few years now, and I find that it ages beautifully, giving a sort of patina that I really love. For cleaning, I just use a damp cloth and avoid harsh chemicals to keep it looking fresh. It’s also pretty easy to touch up since the paint blends well with the existing coat. Have you considered the impact of natural light on the paint’s color over time? I’ve noticed some colors can change slightly, which adds to the charm for me.
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I’ve used milk paint in my bathroom, which is pretty damp, and honestly, it’s been a mixed bag. The color is amazing, and it feels good using something so natural. But yeah, in the corners where moisture collects, it’s not holding up as well. I haven’t seen mold, but the paint does seem to wear away faster there. Maybe it needs a better sealant or something?
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Mold and mildew are definitely concerns with any paint in damp areas. I haven’t tried milk paint yet, but I’ve used other natural paints. The key for me has been ensuring the surface is as dry as possible before painting and using a natural mold-resistant primer. It’s extra work, but it helps with durability.
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Interesting discussion! I’ve been curious about natural paints but worried about performance. Has anyone tried combining milk paint with a natural wax finish? I’ve heard that can help with moisture issues, adding a protective layer that’s still eco-friendly.
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I tried the milk paint in my basement too, and like you, noticed some issues with moisture. What worked for me was using a dehumidifier to keep the air dry while the paint cured. It seemed to help with the adhesion and drying time. Maybe worth a shot if you’re planning more projects?
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This is all great info. I’m planning to use milk paint in my kitchen, which gets steamy. I’m thinking of testing it on a small area first to see how it handles the moisture. Also, does anyone know if the type of surface affects how well the paint adheres? Like, does it work better on wood versus plaster?
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I’ve been using clay paint in my home, and it’s been fantastic for regulating humidity. It might be worth considering for your next project, @EcoDiyEmma. It’s another natural option that’s great for moisture-prone areas.
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Interesting point about clay paint! I’ve also heard that adding a natural primer or sealer before applying milk paint can help with moisture issues. Maybe worth a try if you’re set on using milk paint again.
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