Title: Paint fumes can trigger asthma and cancer: Hidden dangers of decorating | Daily Mail Online
Headings: Will doing up the front room make you ill?
Will doing up the front room make you ill?
There are also hidden dangers in ­apparently simple procedures such as removing old wallpaper and replastering.
So what are the risks - and how can you avoid them...
SANDING FLOORS
VARNISHING
WALLPAPERING
TACKLING MOULD
INSTALLING INSULATION
LAYING CARPET

Content: SOLUTION: Water-based paints pose fewer risks than solvent-based ones since they should be toxin-free and also lower in odour. An alternative is to try a ­natural paint such as eco paint, which is solvent, VOC-free and odourless. Natural paints don’t release toxic fumes. And since brushes can be cleaned with water, there’s no need for white spirit or turpentine — another potential source of ­solvents. Always ensure the room you are decorating is well ­ventilated by opening windows. Take frequent breaks in the fresh air and don’t use the room until the paint is completely dry. Lay out dust sheets and consider wearing a ‘respirator’ mask. Solvents are highly flammable — keep paint cans away from open flames. ­Dispose of rags properly — rags soaked with oil-based paints can ignite spontaneously.