Is it safe to refinish an old wood floor with the kids at home?
Not while kids are home. Sanding can create lead dust in older homes, and floor finishes can release VOCs.
What's actually in it
Refinishing wood floors usually means sanding and adding a finish. Sanding creates fine dust. Finishes can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) while they dry and cure.
In homes built before 1978, nearby painted trim, doors, baseboards, and old layers can contain lead-based paint. Dust from disturbed lead paint is dangerous for kids because they breathe and ingest more dust for their body size.
What the research says
The EPA Renovation, Repair and Painting Program says renovation work that disturbs lead-based paint in pre-1978 homes can create hazardous lead dust and chips. EPA says lead-safe certified contractors must use lead-safe work practices for covered jobs.
The EPA indoor air guide on VOCs says many household products can release VOCs indoors, and ventilation plus safer product selection can reduce exposure.
Do not keep kids or pregnant people home during sanding and finishing. Test for lead before work starts. Use an EPA lead-safe certified contractor if the home was built before 1978. Choose water-based, low-VOC finishes when possible. Keep kids out until dust is HEPA-vacuumed, surfaces are wet-wiped, and the smell is gone. For everyday home swaps, choose simple wood, ceramic, glass, cotton, and stainless steel products over plastic-heavy decor.
The research at a glance
| Study | Journal | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Program: Consumers | US EPA | 2026 |
| Volatile Organic Compounds' Impact on Indoor Air Quality | US EPA | 2025 |