What Are VOCs and Why Do They Matter in Interior Design?

When most people think about creating a beautiful space, they imagine color palettes, textiles, and layout — not what’s floating invisibly in the air. But the truth is, the air inside your home could be impacting your health more than you realize.

This is where VOCs come in — and why they matter deeply in interior design.

what exactly are VOCs?

VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) are chemicals that easily become vapors or gases. They’re emitted by a wide range of materials used in construction and interior finishes — and they can linger in your air for days, weeks, or even months.

You’ll often find VOCs in:

• Paints and stains

• Adhesives and glues

• Sealants and finishes

• Composite wood products (like MDF or particleboard)

• Carpeting and vinyl flooring

• Conventional upholstery foams and some fabrics

That “new paint smell” or “fresh furniture” scent? That’s not cleanliness — it’s off-gassing.

why should you care?

Because VOCs are more than a nuisance — they can have real health effects, especially for children, pets, and people with respiratory sensitivities.

Short-term exposure may lead to:

• Headaches

• Dizziness

• Eye, nose, and throat irritation

• Fatigue or difficulty concentrating

Long-term exposure? Depending on the source compound, it can be linked to:

• Hormonal disruption

• Neurological issues

• Some forms of cancer

As designers, we can’t in good conscience ignore this. At ecc interiors, we’re committed to specifying, as much as possible, non-toxic finishes and low- or zero-VOC materials that support the health of everyone living in the space. The troubling reality is that it is very difficult to create a 100% safe interior space with the materials and products available in the market today. That’s part of why we attend trade market events — to lobby for better products.

understanding product labels

Navigating labels can be overwhelming, especially when terms like “eco-friendly” or “green” aren’t always regulated. Here’s what to look for:

• Low-VOC or Zero-VOC: Indicates reduced levels of volatile compounds, but always check the fine print (most “low-VOC” paints still contain harmful solvents).

• Greenguard or Greenguard Gold Certified: Independently tested for low emissions, important for sensitive spaces like nurseries or schools.

• GOTS-certified fabrics: For textiles, look for organic materials that haven’t been treated with chemical flame retardants or stain repellents.

We always guide our clients through this — so you don’t have to spend hours decoding labels or sourcing alternatives yourself.

why this matters in your home

Your home should be a place where you feel clear, calm, and well.

That means paying attention not just to how it looks, but how it functions, and how it supports your health and values. A beautiful space that’s full of off-gassing adhesives or finishes isn’t truly livable. That’s why we design with intention, choosing materials that are as clean as they are beautiful.

how we help

At ecc interiors, we take the guesswork out of healthy design. We:

• Source furniture and materials with VOC-free design in mind

• Choose non-toxic paints, adhesives, and finishes

• Partner with vendors who care about indoor air quality and ethical production

• Balance beauty and breathability at every step

You don’t have to compromise style to create a home that feels good — for your body, your family, and the planet.

Ready to design a healthier home?

Let’s create a space that reflects your values — and supports your well-being.