Gag-Free Spray Paint: Krylon H20 Latex (Low-VOC)

When it comes to furniture rehabilitation, I am still in the imagination phase. I love daydreaming about finding some awesome piece of furniture sitting by the side of the road. Sure it may be rusted and dinged up — a lot of TLC and a little spray paint would be all it needed. After all, even I know that I handy can of spray paint is the trash digger and thrift store shopper’s best friend. The problem? Spray paint isn’t exactly good for the environment, spewing all those nasty chemicals into the atmosphere and whatnot.

Thanks to Apartment Therapy, I found an alternative that is much easier on air quality. Krylon’s H20 Latex spray paint is water-based, non-toxic and low-odor. I still wouldn’t recommend using it in a closed room, but it is a much better option than traditional spray paint. It also claims to contribute 55% less smog to pollution than most solvent-based paints.

Since reclaiming and reusing furniture that might otherwise be destined for the landfill is one of the best things you can do for the environment, be sure to add another notch in your green column by refinishing said furniture in the least toxic way possible. If painting an ornate mirror frame by hand with a gallon of low-VOC paint doesn’t sound like a fun time for you, now you can go the easy route without feeling guilty about it.

Why It’s Green:

• Low-VOC and low-odor
• Water-based
• Non-toxic
• Can be cleaned with soap and water when wet

Price: $4.99 at Amazon. $3-$6/can from various retailers. See the Krylon retailers list. I have found it at Hobby Lobby, Michaels and Walmart. Be sure to call ahead to your local store to make sure they have the H20 line in stock. (aff)

How I’ve Used It Myself:

• Thrift store lamp makeover
• Sunburst mirror makeover and tutorial