It can be tempting to simply lay down and take a nap right on the floor after going through the process of painting an interior space. After all, interior painting requires a lot of preparation! However, it is crucial that there is time between the end of your paint job and the moment you sleep in your newly painted room. But how much time is enough time? And why do you have to wait before sleeping in a painted room? Our professional painters are here to answer all your questions and give you all the information you need to make the best decision for you and your home’s occupants. 

Why Do You Have to Wait?

From the first opening crack of the paint can, VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) are released into the air. These are the compounds responsible for that fresh paint smell and––most importantly––can cause negative effects to anyone who inhales too much for too long. Fortunately, they evaporate into the air as paint dries. But how long does it take for the room to be safe to sleep in? 

What Effects Wait Times?

There is no straightforward answer for how long you should wait to sleep in a room after painting. This is because each paint job is unique in a number of factors, including size of the room, coats used, paints applied, environment, and more! Generally, you’ll want to wait at least until your paint is fully dry and that fresh paint smell is completely gone. This typically takes around 2-3 days.However, here are a few key things that will affect when your room will be safe to sleep in: 

Occupants of the Room

Most important to note: VOCs are particularly dangerous for babies, young children, or pregnant women. Make sure to give extra time if any of these individuals are going to sleep in the room. 

Type of Paint

Not all paints are made equal. Latex paints are going to dry quicker than oil-based paints, for example. Additionally, there are paints out there with low-VOC or zero-VOC options. Keep in mind that these paints may require additional coats for comprehensive coverage. Therefore, one answer will not fit all and you should judge each newly painted room separately. 

Humidity & Air Flow

High humidity and low ventilation will cause paints to dry slower, making VOCs linger for longer. Either one of these elements can have a drastic effect on how long it’ll take for your room to be safe. No matter the job, we recommend opening windows and turning on fans while you paint. 

How to Reduce the Amount of Time Until Your Room is Safe to Sleep in

There are a few ways to get you into sleeping in your room quicker. Here is our quick tip list:

• Paint with low-VOC or zero-VOC paint

• Use Latex paint

• Ventilate your space

Our Trusted Painters Can Help 

For a worry-free paint job that prioritizes safety, entrust your project to the professionals at CertaPro Painters®. With our expertise and commitment to using safe painting practices, you can rest assured that your newly painted room will be both beautiful and safe for occupancy.

Get started with our trusted painters by calling our team or filling out our free, no-obligation form!