Let me be honest for a second, I used to think paint was just paint. Simply choose a colour and spread it on the wall. However, after undergoing a few renovation projects (which led to me developing a headache or two from the paint smell), I began to ask myself, What exactly am I breathing in? Most standard paints use cruel VOCs and VOCs that stick to your house for ages, long after the walls have ‘dried’. Not really the calm, clean aura I had in mind. That’s when I stumbled into natural paints, and I’ve never looked back.
The gentle and natural paints are quickly gaining popularity across the globe, even with people who aren’t part of the environmentalist community. This is because a lot of brands are emerging, which are much safer for families, pets, and the planet in general; all while offering great colour options and high-quality paints. Such good practices have really added value to the tranquillity that comes with them. In this blog post, I’m going to list the ten natural paint brands that I trust have made significant efforts towards clean practices and honest marketing. These are names you will want to work with while planning big remodelling projects or simply trying to make a room a little more vibrant. So without further ado, let’s jump right in.
Why Choose Natural Paint?
Natural paint often brings to mind eco-friendly rustic design but its true value goes far beyond that. With health and environmental concerns dominating the minds of homeowners, designers, and builders, natural paint provides a useful alternative to harmful synthetic coatings. Natural paint has emerged as an appealing choice for those looking for a low chemical load, renewably sourced ingredients, and a healthier, greener option to colour their spaces.
Natural paint
Non-Toxic Composition
The non-existence of harmful volatile organic compounds certainly improves the air quality indoors, and that is one of the biggest advantages of Natural Paint: its non-toxic nature and virtually no VOC emission. Unlike modern synthetic paints, which utilise petroleum products as their base, natural paints do not emit VOCs both pre- and post-application. A majority of natural paints are composed of plant oils, clay, chalk, casein (a milk protein), or mineral pigments. Due to the absence of harmful chemicals, the air quality indoors improves significantly; this is critical for people suffering from asthma, chemical hypersensitivity, or any type of allergy. For advocates of healthy living, restricted exposure to VOCs decreases the likelihood of headaches, toxic build-up, and respiratory irritation in congested places.
Indoor Air Quality
The sources of VOCs, such as paints, have a significant impact on indoor spaces. VOCs are particularly dangerous in poorly ventilated regions because cracks in paints can persist for weeks. Unlike paints, which are laden with VOCs and other toxic chemicals, natural paints are free from chemical VOCs, which means they do not pollute the air indoors. Nurseries, hospitals, and healthcare centres which need clean air environments can use natural paints. Synthetic products, even with “low-VOC” claims, do not provide the comfort that comes with using paints that do not compromise the health of your living spaces.
Sustainability
Apart from the health benefits, the more important issue is sustainability. Natural Eco Paints have Green Seal certification, which stands for responsible sourcing and production, thus ensuring balanced sustainability. Natural Eco Paints do not contain plastic resins or petrochemicals, hence do not add microplastics to the environment, nor do they create hazardous waste during production or disposal. Using natural paint is an investment in a circular economy which prioritises ecological balance over short-term efficiency.
List of Top 10 Trusted Natural Paint Brands in the World in 2025.
Here are the top companies researching and creating eco-friendly, sustainable, bio-based paints and coatings in 2025.
For the past 35 years, ECOS Paints has been the market leader in health-first bio-based synthetic paints and has worked towards eliminating VOCs from its products. Their paints are made for people who face sensitivity issues with chemicals and need to be safe from harsh odours and toxins. ECOS Paints provides a full line of eco-friendly and non-toxic water-based paints, sealers, and varnishes. ECOS maintains excellent adhesion, scrub resistance, and durability with their synthetic formulas while avoiding toxic solvents. They are a preferred brand in green building projects across the globe and have received LEED certifications. Their odourless interior paints are ideal for nurseries, hospitals, and homes with vulnerable occupants.
ECOS Paints
To create enduring and safe coatings, BioShield incorporates modern painting techniques into a blend of natural and synthetic ingredients. They are the best choice for those looking for toxin-free antimicrobial wall finishes.
BioShield is well known for creating solvent-free synthetic paints. They have breathable and non-toxic finishes for walls, wood, and concrete. Their formulations are plant-based but enhanced with modern additives to aid drying time and surface hardness. BioShield’s small-batch, handcrafted approach to sustainability has earned them a niche following among builders and eco-conscious homeowners.
BioShield Paints
After four decades of experience, Auro is now simultaneously known and respected in eco-conscious architectural circles by combining scientific research and traditional craftsmanship to develop synthetic-free and hybrid natural paints. Auro manufactures synthetic paints with excellent breathability, coverage, and dry time using refined plant binders and herbaceous pigments without the use of petrochemicals. They sell wall paints, primers, stains, and varnishes, and meticulously disclose every ingredient on their labels. This transparency fosters trust between the consumers and the brand. Trust that Auro paints will work great with new, sustainably built structures as well as historic restorations.
Auro Paints
While historically known for traditional milk-based paints, the company has expanded into synthetic paint alternatives that blend durability with biodegradability. Their rustic aesthetic and easy application make them popular with DIYers and pros alike.
The Real Milk Paint Co. is a top brand in artisanal and small-scale design projects because of its focus on customisation, environmental integrity, and ease of use. Their preservative-free powdered paints only require water for mixing, and with the addition of new hybrid finishes, casein-based milk paint mixed with natural synthetic resins, they are more effective on high-traffic surfaces.
The Real Milk Paint Co
A pioneer in natural coatings, Livos also develops hybrid formulations using renewable raw materials and advanced synthetic techniques. Their products are safe for children, pets, and food-contact surfaces.
Livos paints use linseed oil, citrus peel oil, and mineral pigments, with some synthetic stabilisers added for shelf-life and ease of use. The brand prioritises full transparency, listing all ingredients, and adheres to the strictest international health standards. Their wood finishes are particularly respected in high-end cabinetry and flooring due to their deep penetration, water resistance, and natural sheen.
Livos
Distinct from others, Silacote paints approach synthetic paints differently. Its formulation is based on silicate minerals that bond permanently and withstand UV rays when applied to masonry or cement-based surfaces. It is especially designed for architectural and commercial uses because of its longevity and eco-certification. Silacote is different from most paints because instead of using a latex-based paint, it utilises a waterborne potassium silicate binder that bonds chemically with mineral surfaces. This makes it “breathable” (vapour permeable) and non-peelable, durable, or invasive to water. Because of no volatile organic compounds, low encapsulated energy, and resistance to extreme weather, Silacote is preferred for the restoration of historic stonework or the construction of modern sustainable facades.
Silacote Paints
Clare combines smart technology with sustainability, delivering designer-quality, zero-VOC paints directly to consumers. Their sleek brand and curated colours have redefined the DIY home painting experience.
Clare’s synthetic paints are water-based acrylics free of VOCs, hazardous air pollutants, and toxic solvents. They’re GREENGUARD Gold Certified, meaning they meet stringent emissions standards for indoor use. Clare’s innovative shopping model includes peel-and-stick swatches and AI-assisted colour selection, making high-quality paint more accessible and user-friendly for a new generation of homeowners.
Clare Paint
This boutique UK brand specialises in sophisticated synthetic-lime hybrid paints. Their Thrive collection has become a favourite for those seeking beautiful, breathable, and eco-conscious interior finishes.
James Alexander’s synthetic paints blend lime-based mineral elements with modern additives to ensure flexibility, adhesion, and ease of application. Their paints are VOC-free and deliver a soft, matte finish that promotes indoor air quality. Ideal for modern interiors that prioritise design and wellness, their offerings appeal to architects and interior designers alike.
James Alexander Speciality Paints
The company, based in Sweden, resells traditional and modernised linseed oil paints, Ottosson specialises in alongside a wide range of other products. Their Swedish products have great value in terms of breathability, durability, and authenticity. Cold-pressed linseed oil alongside natural earth pigments is used exclusively by Ottosson’s for making their paints, completely eschewing synthetic resins. With modern advancements, they are now able to blend traditional recipes with optional additives to enhance drying speed or mildew resistance. Their paints are commonly used in the restoration of heritage buildings, museums, and other exteriors throughout Europe.
Ottosson Färgmakeri
For over 140 years, Keim has been the world leader in mineral silicate paints. Their paints are designed to be inorganic and synthetic-free, which makes them superior in colour fastness and durability when used on masonry surfaces. Silicate binds chemically with brick, stucco, and concrete walls and withstands enduring fierce conditions. It is highly UV-resistant, fire-resistant and can outlast the competition. Keim paints can last 20-30 years without being reapplied. Their products are Cradle to Cradle Certified and are chosen by architects for green building projects and large-scale public works all over the world.
Keim Mineral Paints
How to Choose the Right Natural Paint Brand?
Choosing the right Natural paint for your project is quite easy nowadays, especially with various eco-friendly and synthetic paints available. Now let’s take a closer look at which brands stand out in different scenarios and why they may be the right fit for your next project.
➦ For Long-Term Performance and Durability
When it comes to paints for longevity, weather resistance or heavy-duty stuff, Keim and Silacote are truly world-class. These particular makes are especially favoured in commercial and architectural installations on account of their distinct compositions based on minerals. While traditional synthetic paints coat the surface of the substrate, most mineral paints actually bond chemically with it (brick, stone, stucco) in order to produce a finish that’s more durable than you can ever imagine.
Keim in particular is appreciated for its colour fastness and breathability, factors that are crucial for historic buildings or ones that are subjected to environmental strain. Silacote also has the industrial level performance and is ideal for the modern facade or purpose requiring resistance to mould or UV. If you want a floor that lasts with very little maintenance throughout the years, either of these brands would be a reliable investment.
➦ For Eco-Friendly and Health-Sensitive Spaces
Indoor air quality today seems to be more important than ever before, especially in homes with children, the elderly or people who have severe allergies or negative reactions to dust and respiratory concerns. Brands such as ECOS Paints, Auro, and BioShield are devoted to this type of solution. These companies make zero-VOC (volatile organic compounds), odourless paints using ingredients that are better for the environment.
ECOS Paints is a standout in this category, trusted by institutions like museums and hospitals where air purity matters most. It provides a strong, clean finish without harmful emissions. Auro, on the other hand, emphasises its natural and organic origin with plant-based oils and pigments that are biodegradable and fully transparent in composition. A holistic approach, BioShield offers a range not only of paints, but also wood finishes and wall treatments derived from natural formulas. These are great for any bedroom, baby’s room, kitchen, or space where clean air and non-toxic ingredients are a top concern.
➦ For Budget-Friendly Yet Quality Painting
Not all projects call for a premium price tag. Both James Alexander and The Real Milk Paint Co. are solid options if you’re on a budget but still seek good results. James Alexander has become increasingly popular in the past couple of years for creating decent colour coverage and pigment at a lower price point. It’s a great go-to for average interior walls or touch-ups at rental properties.
The Real Milk Paint Co. offers powdered paints that you mix with water, which can help reduce waste and cost per use. Though it’s especially well-suited to furniture or artistic applications, many DIYers also use it for walls when they want a chalky, rustic effect. It’s also fully biodegradable and safe for children’s items, making it both affordable and eco-friendly. For people doing small jobs, constrained by tight budgets, or dabbling with creative finishes, these brands offer the best trade-off between cost and quality.
➦ For Stylish Interiors and Designer Finishes
If you’re looking to refresh a room with sophistication and trend-minded colour options that are easy to use, then Clare Paint is a contemporary brand that’s tailor-made for interior design enthusiasts. The Claire comes in a well-curated colour palette for the most discerning designers. The company simplifies the entire process of buying paint, using online tools, peel-and-stick colour samples and paint that needs little preparation.
James Alexander is also on trend for those who like fashion colours but are looking for more affordable options without looking cheap. Its quality finish and array of colours give it the wow-factor on walls in living rooms, bedrooms or creative spaces. If aesthetics matter and ideally you’d like to paint in a streamlined, modern way without spending hours wandering around a hardware store while experimenting with hardware components, here are the brands to place at the top of your priorities.
➦ For Artistic Projects and Restoration Work
When used on furniture, cabinetry and other surfaces or applied to the restoration of historic interiors, the texture and authenticity of the paint are just as important as its colour. Ottosson and The Real Milk Paint Co. are both great in this category. Ottosson is known for its classic linseed-oil paints, which are deep and matte and offer great protection for all types of surfaces, particularly wood. It’s a classic choice for craftsmen and restoration specialists who wish to maintain the integrity of a home in an older neighbourhood or a heritage building. The Real Milk Paint Co., while less traditional, offers a more experimental and decorative approach, often used for chalky, distressed finishes on furniture, crafts, and smaller surfaces.
Detailed Comparison Table of Top Eco-Friendly Paint Brands (2025).
| Brand | Performance | Eco-Friendliness | Best For | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ECOS Paints | Excellent coverage, durable indoors | Zero-VOC, odourless, toxin-free | Bedrooms, nurseries, sensitive environments | Hospital-safe, certified green, no harsh fumes |
| BioShield | Good adhesion, smooth finish | Low/No VOC, plant-based | Interiors, wood, allergy-friendly spaces | Offers wood stains, plasters, and natural finishes |
| Auro | High-quality natural finish, breathable | 100% natural ingredients | Eco homes, walls, and ceilings | Biodegradable, organic, plant-based formulas |
| The Real Milk Paint Co. | Good for decorative finishes, fast-drying | Non-toxic, biodegradable | Furniture, crafts, vintage styles | Powder form, mixable, chalky textures |
| Livos | Durable with natural ingredients | Organic-based, low VOC | Woodwork, interiors, restoration work | Vegan-friendly, wide range of eco products |
| Silacote | Industrial-strength, long-lasting exterior | Low VOC, mineral-based | Exteriors, commercial buildings, facades | UV-stable, breathable, mould/mildew resistant |
| Clare Paint | High-end finish, self-priming | Low VOC, sustainably produced | Modern interiors, stylish homes | Online shopping, peel-and-stick swatches |
| James Alexander | Consistent coverage, smooth result | Low VOC | Budget interiors, full-home repaints | Affordable, accessible, good for beginners |
| Ottosson | Long-lasting, traditional matte finish | Linseed oil-based, natural | Restoration, wood, heritage buildings | Authentic old-world finish, great for natural surfaces |
| Keim | Top-tier durability, mineral bond | Mineral, breathable, low impact | Masonry, historic preservation, high-end exteriors | Weatherproof, anti-fungal, used in architecture & restoration |
In today’s world, selecting paint is about making smart, informed decisions that work for your lifestyle, values and environment, not just picking a colour. Whether you are redecorating, refinishing antique furniture or applying a new coat on a plane of concrete, the type of paint or finish you choose can make a huge difference in the longevity and ensure the overall success of your project. The brands we’ve looked at everyone from eco-pioneers like ECOS and Auro to high-performance leaders like Keim and Silacote to creative favourites like The Real Milk Paint Co. and Clare, have unique offerings. Some emphasise air quality and sustainability, others the ability to withstand extreme weather or making DIY projects more attainable and affordable.
As you consider your next painting project, think about what matters most to you:
- Do you need long-lasting protection for outdoor walls?
- Are you painting a nursery or an allergy-sensitive space?
- Are you on a budget or trying to reduce your environmental impact?
- Or are you simply looking to refresh a room with beautiful, stylish colours?
Whatever your goal, the right paint brand can help bring your vision to life safely, beautifully, and responsibly. Take your time, sample where possible, and choose a product that supports both your creative goals and your principles. With the right tools and the right brand, you won’t just paint a surface, you’ll enhance your space for years to come.
