Painting with kids is one of those timeless joys, isn’t it? From tiny handprints to abstract masterpieces, it fosters creativity, develops fine motor skills, and provides endless entertainment. But let’s be real – the thought of paint messes, toxic fumes, and stubborn stains can make even the most enthusiastic parent hesitate. That’s why choosing the best interior paint for kids is absolutely essential!
You want paint that’s not only vibrant and engaging but also safe for little hands, easy to clean up, and durable enough to withstand the daily adventures of childhood. Whether you’re looking for craft paint for art projects or a durable, child-friendly paint for their bedroom walls, we’ve got you covered. We’ve rounded up seven fantastic options that promise less stress and more creative fun. Let’s dive in!
Understanding What Makes Paint “Kid-Friendly”
Before we jump into the reviews, it’s good to know what criteria we’re looking at. For paint to be truly kid-friendly, it usually means:
* Non-Toxic & Safe: Free from harmful chemicals, lead, and often allergens. Look for ASTM D-4236 or AP Seal certifications.
* Washable: This is a big one! It should easily wash off skin, most fabrics, and surfaces. For wall paints, this translates to scrubbable and stain-resistant.
* Low or Zero VOC: Volatile Organic Compounds can impact indoor air quality. Low-VOC or zero-VOC paints create a healthier environment for your child.
* Durable (for walls): Wall paints need to stand up to scuffs, marks, and frequent cleaning without losing their color or finish.
Our Top Picks: The Best Interior Paint for Kids
Here are our detailed reviews of 7 top choices, ranging from craft paints perfect for playdates to durable options for decorating a child’s sanctuary.
1. Crayola Washable Kids Paint (6ct), Essential Preschool…
This 6-count set from Crayola is a staple for a reason! It’s all about vibrant, mixable colors and, most importantly, easy cleanup. Perfect for younger kids just starting their artistic journey, these paints are designed for fun projects, encouraging creativity without giving parents a massive headache over spills. The resealable caps ensure the paint stays fresh for many art sessions to come, making it a reliable choice for your craft cupboard.
- Key Features:
- 6 bold colors: Yellow, Green, Yellow Orange, Red Orange, Fuchsia, Teal, and Blue Violet.
- Smooth, creamy texture for easy blending.
- Resealable caps for freshness.
- Washable from skin and most washable clothing.
- Safe & Non-Toxic, ideal for kids ages 3 and up.
- Pros:
- Excellent washability for skin and clothes.
- Vibrant colors that mix well.
- Safe and non-toxic for young children.
- Great for various craft projects and school assignments.
- Cons:
- Not intended for painting walls or furniture.
- Colors are fixed, no custom mixing.
- Smaller quantity may run out quickly with heavy use.
- User Impressions: Parents consistently praise this paint for its true washability and the vibrant colors that inspire young artists. It’s a go-to for craft time, with many appreciating the peace of mind it offers regarding messes.
- See it on Amazon here
2. Rodda Paint CASCADIA ZERO Interior Satin Low VOC Paint & Primer
When it comes to painting actual walls in a child’s room, safety and durability are paramount. Rodda Paint’s CASCADIA ZERO is an outstanding choice, delivering an ultra-low VOC, acrylic blend formula that’s also a paint and primer-in-one. This means fewer coats, a quicker job, and virtually no odor – a huge plus when decorating nurseries or playrooms. The satin sheen provides a soft, luminous finish that’s also highly scrubbable, making it ideal for high-touch areas where tiny fingerprints and smudges are inevitable. This option truly is the best interior paint for kids when renovating their space.
- Key Features:
- Ultra-Low VOC, Acrylic Blend Paint & Primer-in-One.
- Virtually odor-free formula for healthy indoor air quality.
- Excellent hide and coverage with smooth application.
- Satin sheen for a soft, durable, and scrubbable finish.
- Ideal for walls, ceilings, doors, and trim in kids’ rooms.
- Pros:
- Significantly improves indoor air quality with low VOCs.
- Durable and scrubbable finish stands up to daily wear and tear.
- Paint & primer-in-one saves time and effort.
- Smooth application with minimal spatter.
- Cons:
- Higher price point compared to craft paints.
- Color range might be less extensive than some specialty decorative paints.
- Requires proper surface preparation like any wall paint.
- User Impressions: Customers love the peace of mind that comes with the low-VOC and odor-free formula, especially for children’s spaces. They often highlight its great coverage and durable, easy-to-clean satin finish as key benefits for busy households.
- See it on Amazon here
3. Colorations Paraben-Free Washable Tempera Paint for Kids – Gallon
For schools, daycares, or simply very artistic households, this gallon-sized Colorations Tempera Paint offers incredible value and safety. It’s not just washable; it’s also paraben-free and made without common allergens like latex, dairy, and gluten, making it a fantastic choice for sensitive kids. This paint provides vivid opaque colors that won’t chip or crack, and its versatility means it works beautifully on almost any craft surface, from paper to wood.
- Key Features:
- Vibrant, paraben-free white color (other colors available).
- Certified AP Seal for safety and non-toxicity.
- Free from Latex, Dairy, Casein, Egg, Gluten, Peanut, Tree Nuts, and Soy.
- Highly versatile: works on paper, canvas, wood, cardboard, and more.
- Suitable for both indoor and outdoor craft use.
- Pros:
- Exceptional safety profile for allergy-prone children.
- Large gallon size offers great value for frequent use.
- Washable from skin with soap and warm water.
- Versatile for many different art projects and surfaces.
- Cons:
- Tempera paint isn’t waterproof or as durable as acrylics once dry.
- While washable from skin, it may stain porous items like unfinished wood or certain fabrics permanently.
- This specific listing is for white paint, so you’d need to purchase other colors separately.
- User Impressions: This paint is a hit with educators and parents of children with allergies, who appreciate its non-toxic, allergen-free formula. The large size and consistent quality make it a reliable choice for frequent crafting.
- See it on Amazon here
4. EVOLVE Kidsroom Paint – Low VOC, Washable Kids Room Paint
EVOLVE Kidsroom Paint is specifically formulated with your children’s spaces in mind, making it another top contender for the best interior paint for kids‘ bedrooms and playrooms. It boasts a low VOC and low odor formula for healthier indoor air, which is crucial where kids spend a lot of time. Beyond safety, its washable and durable satin finish is built to withstand the daily onslaught of messes – think easily scrubbable fingerprints, spills, and scuffs without losing its elegant look. With 28 designer colors, you’re sure to find the perfect shade to match any theme!
- Key Features:
- Low VOC & Low Odor for a healthier environment.
- Washable & Durable finish to resist daily messes.
- Elegant Satin Finish enhances light and warmth.
- Available in 28 vibrant designer colors.
- Ideal for high-touch areas like bedrooms, playrooms, and nurseries.
- Pros:
- Specifically designed for children’s spaces, balancing aesthetics and practicality.
- Excellent durability and easy clean-up for high-traffic areas.
- Health-conscious choice with minimal fumes.
- Wide range of appealing colors to choose from.
- Cons:
- Premium pricing reflects its specialized formulation.
- As a wall paint, it requires typical painting preparation.
- Not suitable for small craft projects (it’s for walls).
- User Impressions: Many parents rave about how well this paint holds up to real-life kid activity. They appreciate the low odor during application and the ease with which messes wipe away, allowing them to maintain a beautiful, healthy space.
- See it on Amazon here
5. Crayola Washable Paint for Kids (12ct), Teacher Classroom…
If you’re looking to stock up for a classroom, a busy home, or lots of art parties, this 12-count set of 16-ounce Crayola Washable Paints is an absolute winner. It offers a broader spectrum of vibrant colors than the smaller set, ensuring that every art project can come to life. These water-based paints maintain Crayola’s renowned washability from skin and most fabrics, making them a teacher and parent favorite for larger-scale creative endeavors.
- Key Features:
- 12 vibrant colors in 16-ounce, easy-squeeze bottles.
- Includes essential colors: Green, Yellow, White, Red, Magenta, Turquoise, Violet, Brown, Blue, Peach, Orange, and Black.
- Washable from skin and most washable clothing.
- Richly pigmented hues for long-lasting projects.
- Great for classroom art projects, parties, and daily crafts.
- Pros:
- Large quantity and wide color selection for extensive use.
- Reliable washability from skin and most clothes.
- Non-toxic and safe for children.
- Excellent value for bulk art supplies.
- Cons:
- Not formulated for wall or furniture painting.
- Requires storage space for the larger bottles.
- Still craft paint, so supervision is advised to manage mess.
- User Impressions: Reviewers frequently call this set a “classroom essential” or “art room must-have” due to its generous quantity, variety of colors, and consistent washability. It’s highly recommended for any group art activity.
- See it on Amazon here
6. TMOL Washable Finger Paint for Toddlers, 40 PCS Non-Toxic
For the youngest artists, tactile sensory play is incredibly important, and TMOL Washable Finger Paint delivers just that in a super safe package. This isn’t just paint; it’s a complete art kit designed for toddlers, including brushes, sponges, no-spill cups, and even a waterproof smock! Made with non-toxic, hypoallergenic paint certified by ASTM D-4236, it’s gentle on sensitive skin and perfect for hand and feet crafts. Plus, it doubles as bathtub fingerpaint for even easier cleanup – a true game-changer for mess-conscious parents!
- Key Features:
- Baby Safe & Non-Toxic: Hypoallergenic and gentle on sensitive skin.
- Complete Art Set: 10 colors, brushes, sponges, no-spill cups, and a smock.
- Washable from skin and smooth surfaces; can be used as bathtub paint.
- Rich, creamy texture perfect for hand and feet crafts.
- Supports early development of fine motor skills and creativity.
- Pros:
- Exceptional safety for toddlers, including hypoallergenic properties.
- Comprehensive kit provides everything needed for immediate play.
- Easy cleanup from skin and bathroom surfaces.
- Excellent for sensory exploration and keepsake crafts.
- Cons:
- Not suitable for porous surfaces like fabric or unfinished wood, which may absorb paint.
- Smaller paint quantities per bottle compared to dedicated craft paint sets.
- Primarily for finger painting and tactile art, not detailed brushwork.
- User Impressions: Parents are thrilled with the all-inclusive nature of this kit and its focus on toddler safety. The ease of cleanup, especially in the bathtub, gets high marks, making it a favorite for fostering early artistic expression.
- See it on Amazon here
7. Crayola Spill Proof Paint Set, Washable Paint for Kids…
Mess is often the biggest deterrent to letting kids paint, but Crayola’s Spill Proof Paint Set tackles this head-on! This innovative set features semi-solid paints in reusable jars, significantly reducing drips and spills. It comes with a brush and paper, offering a complete, low-mess art experience. The washable formula ensures that if any paint does stray, it easily cleans from skin and most washable clothing. It’s truly one of the best interior paint for kids in terms of mess management, perfect for independent play or when you need a less chaotic art session.
- Key Features:
- 5 Washable Spill Proof Paints in reusable jars (semi-solid).
- Includes 1 brush and 20 sheets of paper.
- Reduces spills, drips, and messes significantly.
- Washable from skin and most washable clothing.
- Dries quickly to prevent smearing.
- Safe and non-toxic for ages 3 and up.
- Pros:
- Revolutionary spill-proof design minimizes cleanup.
- Great for fostering independent art play.
- Quick-drying to prevent smudges on artwork.
- Convenient all-in-one starter set.
- Cons:
- Limited color palette (5 colors).
- Semi-solid consistency might be different from traditional liquid paints.
- Smaller amount of paint, not ideal for very large projects.
- User Impressions: This set is a consistent favorite among parents who appreciate a less messy art experience. They love the innovative design that truly prevents spills, giving children more freedom to create without constant supervision.
- See it on Amazon here
Making Your Decision: Which Paint is Right for You?
Choosing the best interior paint for kids depends entirely on your specific needs:
- For Craft Time & Artistic Exploration: The Crayola Washable Kids Paint sets (6ct or 12ct), Colorations Tempera Paint, or TMOL Finger Paint Kit are fantastic. They prioritize washability from skin and clothes, and focus on creative play.
- For Decorating Kids’ Rooms & Playrooms: Rodda Paint CASCADIA ZERO and EVOLVE Kidsroom Paint are your go-to options. They offer durability, easy cleaning for walls, and crucial low-VOC formulas for a healthy environment.
- For Mess-Free Creativity: The Crayola Spill Proof Paint Set is a game-changer for independent, less-messy art sessions.
No matter which you choose, prioritizing safety, washability, and durability will ensure a positive and creative experience for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why is washable paint so important for kids’ rooms and crafts?
A1: Washable paint is a lifesaver for parents! For craft paints, it means accidental splatters on skin, clothes, or tables can be easily wiped away. For wall paints, “washable” usually translates to scrubbable and stain-resistant, allowing you to clean off crayon marks, food spills, and general grime without damaging the paint finish. It ensures both less stress and a cleaner environment.
Q2: What does “Low VOC” mean, and why is it important for paint used around children?
A2: VOC stands for Volatile Organic Compounds. These are chemicals released into the air as paint dries, contributing to indoor air pollution and an unpleasant odor. Low-VOC or Zero-VOC paints significantly reduce these emissions, creating a healthier indoor air quality. This is particularly crucial for children, whose developing respiratory systems are more sensitive to airborne chemicals.
Q3: Is finger paint suitable for painting walls?
A3: Generally, no. Finger paints are designed for craft paper, skin, and smooth, non-porous surfaces like bathtubs or art tables, with an emphasis on easy cleanup. They are not formulated for durability, adhesion, or long-term wear on walls, and may not wash off porous wall surfaces easily or completely. For walls, always opt for paints specifically designed for interior surfaces, like the Rodda Paint or EVOLVE Kidsroom Paint reviewed above.
Q4: What’s the difference between tempera and acrylic paint for kids’ crafts?
A4:
* Tempera Paint: Water-based, opaque, dries to a matte finish, and is typically very easy to wash off. It’s excellent for younger children and common craft surfaces like paper and cardboard. It’s not waterproof once dry.
* Acrylic Paint: Also water-based but dries to a permanent, often slightly glossy, and waterproof finish. It’s more durable and suitable for a wider range of surfaces (canvas, wood, plastic). While some acrylics are “washable” when wet, they are much harder to remove once dry compared to tempera.
Q5: How do I choose the right sheen for a kid’s room wall paint?
A5: For kids’ rooms, a satin or eggshell finish is generally recommended.
* Satin/Eggshell: Offers a soft, low-sheen look with good durability. They are highly washable and easy to clean, making them ideal for high-traffic and high-touch areas where messes are common.
* Matte/Flat: While elegant, they are typically less durable and harder to clean, showing scuffs and marks more easily.
* Semi-Gloss/Gloss: Very durable and easy to clean, but their high sheen can highlight imperfections and might feel too formal for a child’s room.
Q6: Are there any specific ingredients to avoid in kids’ paint?
A6: Yes, always look for paints labeled “non-toxic.” Specifically, avoid paints containing lead, heavy metals, or high levels of VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds). Some parents also prefer paints free from common allergens like latex, dairy, gluten, and soy, especially for sensitive children. Look for certifications like the ASTM D-4236 standard or the AP (Approved Product) Seal from the Art & Creative Materials Institute (ACMI).
Q7: How can I make painting with kids less messy?
A7: A few tips:
* Set up a “mess zone”: Cover tables and floors with old newspapers, drop cloths, or a plastic tablecloth.
* Dress for success: Put kids in old clothes or an art smock/apron.
* Use appropriate tools: Opt for no-spill paint cups or semi-solid paints (like Crayola Spill Proof). Large brushes or sponges are easier for little hands than fine-tipped ones.
* Portion control: Pour small amounts of paint into separate containers rather than giving them direct access to large bottles.
* Supervision: While less-mess options help, adult supervision is key for managing spills and teaching proper cleanup.
Happy painting!