Should I be concerned about this paint?

[babygrant]

My in laws bought my kids a used bedroom set. It was made about 40 years ago. There is a bunk bed, 2 dressers, 2 cabinets, and a desk. It's painted dark blue on the bottom and light blue on the top. REALLY nice set. We will be going tonight to pick it up. ONly thing I am a bit worried about....the paint is original. How would I know if it has lead in the paint or not? I never even thought about it until a resident at my workplace asked me about it.

[kama'aina mama]

YOu can probably pick up a lead test kit at your local hardware store.

[babygrant]

Originally Posted by kama'aina mama

YOu can probably pick up a lead test kit at your local hardware store.

Ooooh okay I never knew they sold them.

[kama'aina mama]

Of course, how good is the paint going to look after 40 years? Maybe just plan to repaint it?

[kama'aina mama]

I only just noticed you are in Canada. The US didn't ban lead paint til 1978. Don't know about y'all. And you can't be sure where the set came from originally. If you can't find a lead test locally they do sell them online.

[babygrant]

Originally Posted by kama'aina mama

Of course, how good is the paint going to look after 40 years? Maybe just plan to repaint it?

It honestly looks awesome. no chips or anything. THe wife is prety sure it was never repainted but I would bet it was. Is lead only dangerous if ingested? My kids are past the chewing stage.

[kama'aina mama]

Yes, but even if they don't chew, it can get on their hands from touching the furniture, then they bite a fingernail, eat food with their hands... etc... Plus if it is starting to chip it gets in the air.

[mom de terre]

Definitely test. I have three pieces of vintage/antique painted furniture. I recently tested them. All three have lead paint! I have had them for years and never thought twice about them before.