Eco Spec® is Benjamin Moore’s least toxic, greenest, and lowest-odor paint line. Engineered for maximum indoor air quality, it is completely free of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and emissions, and is even certified Asthma & Allergy Friendly by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.
Benjamin Moore’s greenest, most non-toxic option is the Eco Spec line. It is a zero-VOC, zero-emission, 100% acrylic interior latex that is certified Asthma & Allergy Friendly. Paired with their proprietary Gennex zero-VOC colorants, it remains non-toxic even after tinting.
Benjamin Moore's various product lines are zero or low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including AURA®, Regal® Select, ben®, and Ultra Spec® 500, among others.
Modern Benjamin Moore paints are generally non-toxic and safe when properly applied and cured. The brand eliminated heavy metals, mercury, and formaldehyde years ago and offers multiple low- or zero-VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) lines.
The least toxic paints are Zero-VOC and completely natural/mineral-based formulas. To avoid hazardous off-gassing, heavy metals, and chemical solvents, look for brands that provide 100% ingredient transparency and third-party certifications like GREENGUARD Gold.
Top 9 Zero-VOC Paint Brands
Yes, you can absolutely stay in your house while it is being painted. Modern paints (especially low-VOC or zero-VOC formulas) have mild odors and are much safer to be around. Professional painters will coordinate with you to keep your living areas accessible.
Our commitment to research and innovation has led us to many industry firsts. And years before the federal government required it, we eliminated lead, formaldehyde and mercury from our paints and met VOC standards.
Both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams are top-tier, premium paint brands, but neither is universally "better." Benjamin Moore generally wins for color depth, richness, and a smoother finish, while Sherwin-Williams excels in overall durability, application ease, and budget-friendly accessibility.
Grades of Benjamin Moore Paint
There are four major interior paint quality categories produced by Benjamin Moore. The quality tiers are Super Hide, Super Spec, Regal, and Aura, in ascending order.
Benjamin Moore offers a wide range of premium low-VOC products. Our innovative Gennex® Color Technology is a zero-VOC colorant. You'll also find our "greenest" zero-VOC products here.
Cool gray is being replaced by "mushroom" neutrals (warm taupes and greys with subtle green or violet undertones), warm earthy khakis, and soft, natural sages.
Benjamin Moore Auraoffers superior color retention and is ideal for high-traffic areas, while Regal Select excels in durability and ease of application, suitable for a wide range of surfaces. Aura covers approximately 350-400 sq. ft. per gallon and provides high durability, while Regal Select covers around 400-450 sq.
If you use Zero-VOC paint it is perfectly safe to sleep in room the same day you paint. This paint is virtually odorless and does not emit toxic chemicals. Two great VOC-free paints are Benjamin Moore's Natura® and Sherwin Williams Harmony®.
The safest paints are those that are zero-VOC, natural (plant- or mineral-based), and fully disclose their ingredients. They eliminate harmful solvents, toxins, and chemical off-gassing, making them ideal for nurseries, bedrooms, and individuals with chemical sensitivities or allergies.
For Coverage: Sherwin Williams SuperPaint takes the lead. For Value: Benjamin Moore Ultra Spec 500 is the clear winner. For Budget Projects: Benjamin Moore Super Hide offers solid performance at a low price.
Professional painters primarily use Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore. This preference is driven by high-quality, durable ingredients, exceptional coverage, and access to dedicated contractor stores and trade discounts.
Professional painters prefer Benjamin Moore because its proprietary resin and colorant formulas deliver superior flow, leveling, and coverage. This high-solids formulation saves pros time on the job site by requiring fewer coats, allowing for seamless touch-ups, and ensuring long-lasting, highly scuff-resistant finishes for their clients.
Benjamin Moore's Next Generation of Eco Spec® Paint Earns Asthma & Allergy Friendly® Certification. Asthma & Allergy Friendly® Certification verifies Eco Spec® paint has low VOC emissions and is suitable for people with asthma and allergies.
Formaldehyde (CH2Ocap C cap H sub 2 cap O𝐶𝐻2𝑂) is neutralized through chemical reactions that convert it into safe, non-hazardous byproducts, or by physical removal like ventilation. The best neutralizing agent depends on whether you are treating liquid chemical waste, cleaning a spill, or clearing airborne gases from a room.
Benjamin Moore makes a number of zero-VOC acrylic paints including Eco Spec, Ultra Spec, and ben. Aura is so low VOC that it is practically zero. One of the original non-toxic paint lines was their Natura, pictured (which was phased out in March 2021).
To make a home look expensive, rely on sophisticated neutrals, earthy greens, or muted blues rather than stark whites or highly saturated brights. High-end spaces feel cohesive and intentional, using layered tones, natural materials, and high-quality finishes to create a calm, custom feel.
Inhaling paint fumes can cause both immediate and long-term health issues, primarily due to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and chemicals like hydrocarbons. Immediate, mild symptoms typically resolve upon moving to fresh air.
Most homeowners can stay home during professional painting projects. Low-VOC paints make it safer to remain in your home. Room-by-room painting allows normal routines to continue. Proper ventilation reduces fumes and speeds up drying time.