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How to Create a Non-Toxic Nursery for Your Baby?
If you’re expecting a baby, congratulations! As you’re getting ready for your little one’s arrival, it’s important to consider the safety of your home. One of the most important rooms to make safe is the nursery, and choosing the right crib mattress, baby furniture and bedding is crucial.
Creating a non-toxic nursery can be daunting, but with a little bit of knowledge and preparation, it can be easy! Here are some tips to get you started:
Non Toxic Furniture
Start with baby furniture that is made from natural materials. Look for furniture made from solid wood, bamboo, or rattan. Avoid particleboard and other man-made materials because they often contain toxic chemicals.
Also, pay attention to the wood finishes used. Ideally, you want a water-based finish with low- or zero-VOC. apart from non toxic wood stains and paints, some manufacturers offer furniture pieces finished with natural oil, such as linseed oil.
It’s also good to check where the furniture was made. As some furniture made in Asia has been found to contain lead and other heavy metals, you should choose cribs and dressers made in the US or Europe.
The best nursery furniture is Greenguard GOLD certified. It means that the product has been tested and meets the most stringent chemical emissions standards. If you’re after a non toxic crib and other chemical-free baby furniture check the following brands:
Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 Convertible Crib
$499.00
Material: Sustainable New Zealand pine wood
Finish: Non-toxic
Highlights: Greenguard GOLD Certified, Meets ASTM international and U.S. CPSC safety standards
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- Babyletto – This Los Angeles-based company offers Greenguard GOLD-certified cribs, non-toxic gliders, and dressers for the nursery. Their solid wood pieces have got modern and minimalistic style and their neutral colors will look great in any nursery.
- Oeuf – This New York-based company offers Greenguard GOLD-certified baby and kids furniture made of FSC-certified wood with zero-VOC finishes for your little one’s safety. check their collection if you’re after a high-end rocking chair or changing table.
- DaVinci – This furniture manufacturer offers Greenguard nursery sets in a range of designs and colors. Although some of their pieces are made of engineered wood, the safety certificates mean that the glues and adhesives used are VOC-free and not toxic to your baby.
Organic Baby Bedding
Organic bedding is made without the use of pesticides or toxins, so it is safe for both you and your baby. The best fabric for organic baby sheets and baby blankets is cotton. It is breathable and absorbent, and it won’t irritate your baby’s skin. Check the label for the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certificate to be sure it is organic.
Another important certificate on crib sheets and swaddlers is OEKO Tex. This certificate means that all parts of the product, including zippers, buttons, and ink, have been tested for unsafe substances and are free from toxins. Apart from organic sleep sacks and baby sheets, consider buying an organic crib mattress protector and an organic baby pillow. The best brands that offer GOTS-certified crib bedding are:
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- Burt’s Bees – These GOTS-certified baby sheets offer fantastic quality and durability as well as beautiful colors and patterns that will help you create a cozy sleeping environment for your little one.
- Tealbee – Tealbee offers organic cotton baby sheets with beautiful prints. Perfect for a newborn photo session and adding a unique look to your baby’s nursery.
Organic Crib Mattress
The best option is an organic crib mattress made without flame retardants or other toxins. An organic crib mattress is usually made with natural materials like wool, cotton or latex. To make sure that it’s non toxic, check for the Greenguard , GOTS or OEKO Tex certificates.
If you’re interested in more affordable non toxic crib mattresses made of foam, be sure it’s CertiPUR-US certified. This means that the foam has been tested and does not release high amounts of toxic chemicals. Take a look at our recommendations:
Emily Organic Cotton and Wool Crib Mattress
$289 (Promo Code: GreenSnooze $20 Off)
Materials: Organic Cotton, Eco-Wool
Certificates: GOTS, Oeko-Tex, Greenguard GOLD
Promo Code: GreenSnooze ($20 Off)
- Emily Natural Crib Mattress -This brand specializes in non toxic mattresses for children and babies that are flame retardant free. Their baby products have got all safety certificates you’ll need to be sure that your child is sleeping on a mattress that won’t off-gas or cause irritation.
- Naturepedic No Compromise Crib Mattress – This American company makes organic baby mattresses and organic baby bedding made from GOTS certified cotton without the use of flame retardants and toxic polyurethane foam. You can also check their adult-size
organic mattress , ideal for co-sleeping families.
Non Toxic Baby Toys
Toys can often contain harmful substances that can be dangerous for your baby. Look for non toxic baby toys that are made from natural materials like wood, bamboo or cotton. Avoid toys that are made with synthetic materials like plastics, which can release harmful chemicals. If you choose plastic toys, check that they are Bisphenol-A (BPA) free.
This chemical has been linked to health problems like cancer and developmental problems. Check the following brands to find quality non toxic baby toys free from dangerous substances:
Rose & Rex Baby Toys
$20
These toys, designed with imaginative play in mind, are made of natural materials with non toxic finishes.
- Rose & Rex – This US-based company offers a range of hand-nit, stuffed and wooden baby toys for imaginative play. These toys use are made with non toxic and water-based finishes and smooth edges to make sure your little one can play safely.
- Haba – Haba is a German toys manufacturer that has been on the market for decades and most of their wooden toys are made in Germany. Their quality baby toys are made of solid wood and they use non toxic stains and paints that are safe even when your baby puts the toy in his/her mouth.
Zero-VOC Paint
Paint your baby’s nursery walls and furniture with zero VOC paint. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chemicals that can cause health problems like headaches, nausea and respiratory problems. They can also be unsafe for unborn babies and young children.
Look for paints that are certified by the Greenguard or GREENGUARD GOLD programs. This means that the paint does not release any harmful chemicals into the air. Some of the best non toxic paint brands for your nursery are:
Ecos Paints
Non-toxic, VOC-free paint with long-lasting protection without the use of toxic chemicals or odors
- Ecos Paint – If you’re looking for non toxic wall paint, Ecos paint is one of the best options on the market thanks to their quality and ingredient safety. These paints are available in a variety of finishes and colors, so you can find the right product for every room, including the nursery.
- Lullaby Paint – This baby furniture paint was designed especially for nurseries, they’re EN-71 certified for use on baby toys, which means, the paint is safe even if your baby decides to lick it. If you want to refurbish an old crib or dresser for your new baby, check this water-based zero-VOC paint that was designed for durability and safety.
Non Toxic Rugs and Carpets
Rugs and carpets can often contain toxins, so it’s important to choose a safe one for your nursery. Look for rugs that are made from natural wool or cotton. Avoid polypropylene rugs and those made with other synthetic materials like polyester, they can release unsafe chemicals. The best rugs are certified by the GOTS or OEKO Tex programs. Check these natural and non toxic nursery rugs:
Hook & Loom Crawlable Organic Rugs
From $54
Made of organic GOTS certified cotton without the use of toxic substances
- Hook & Loom – Hook & Loom Crawlable Organic Rug is made of 100% GOTS Certified organic cotton, meaning it’s got no toxic dyes, chemicals, and other substances that may affect your baby’s health. Plus, they’re wonderfully soft and springy, making them perfect for little ones (or anyone who loves spending time on the floor).
- Willaby – Willaby’s Organic Nursery Washable Rugs are made of 100% GOTS-certified organic gauze, free of harmful flame retardants and other dangerous substances. Plus, they’re handwoven in India without the use of electricity, so you can be sure that every step involved in making them was taken with the environment in mind.
Non Toxic Changing Pad
Another nursery item that may contain toxins, such as formaldehyde are changing pads. Those made of vinyl or polyurethane foam may unnecessarily increase your child’s exposure to VOC and other harmful substances.
Make sure that the cover is made of cotton and filling is either natural or made of CertiPur certified foam. Additionally, the pad should be Greenguard GOLD certified, which guarantees it’s completely safe for your baby. Take a look at the following options:
Organic Cotton Changing Pad by Naturepedic
$129
Materials: GOTS certified organic cotton cover and filling and waterproof, food-grade sugarcane coating. Greenguard GOLD certified.
Non Toxic Cleaning Products
Cleaning products often contain unsafe chemicals that can be dangerous for your baby. These chemicals can be released into the air or absorbed into the surfaces in your nursery. Choose cleaning products that are certified by Green Seal, EPA Safer Choice or Ecocert. These cleaners have been tested for toxins and are safe for use around children:
- Method – These VOC-free plant-based cleaners are tough on dirt and grime but gentle on your family and the environment. And because they’re non-toxic, you can feel good about using them without worrying about your baby’s exposure to toxic fumes or residues.
- Puracy – Puracy organic home cleaners are tough on dirt but gentle on your family. Their non toxic ingredients are derived from plants and minerals, so they’re safe for everyone in your household – even the little ones. Plus, their biodegradable formulas and packaging make them environmentally friendly.
- Sensitive Home – This is the perfect choice for those with skin, respiratory and chemical sensitivities. They use new formulas to clean and disinfect without known irritants, harsh chemicals and toxic residues. The well-tolerated, non-irritating ingredients make them perfect for babies too!
Air Purifier
It will help you to get rid of toxins and allergens in your nursery. The air quality in your nursery will affect both you and your baby, so make sure you pick the right product for the job. The most recommended air purifiers feature a HEPA filter that can trap harmful particles like allergens, smoke, and dust. On top of that, the sound of an air purifier may be exactly what your baby needs to fall asleep!
Apart from using an air purifier, look for ways to increase ventilation in the baby nursery and the whole house. Start by opening the windows and letting fresh air circulate freely around the house. This will help remove toxic gases that may accumulate over time, especially if you buy new furniture or paint the walls.
Natural Detergent and Wool Dryer Balls
Laundry detergent often contains toxins that can be dangerous for your baby. Choose a detergent that is certified by the USDA or Ecocert. These detergents are made without harmful compounds and are safe for use around children.
Wool dryer balls are a great alternative to fabric softener or toxic dryer sheets. They help to reduce static cling and clothes wrinkles.
- Meliora – Their Made Safe certified detergents are made with ingredients that are safe for adults and children, most of them sold in plastic-free packages.
- Seventh Generation – Seventh Generation natural detergents are Made safe Certified so you can be sure that they’re made with natural ingredients that are effective at cleaning your home without any harmful toxins.
- Handy Laundry – These PVC-free balls are made of 100% premium New Zealand wool and can be reused indefinitely. They’re a great alternative to toxic dryer sheets and fabric softeners that may irritate your baby’s skin. Plus, they’re environmentally friendly, so you can feel good about using them.
Organic Curtains and Drapes
Curtains and drapes can often contain toxins that can be dangerous for your baby. Choose curtains and drapes made from natural materials like cotton, hemp or wool.
Avoid curtains and drapes made with synthetic materials, which can release dangerous chemicals. The best curtains and drapes are certified by the GOTS or OEKO Tex programs.
Materials and Chemicals to Avoid:
When preparing a nursery for a new baby, it is important to avoid harmful chemicals and materials. Since babies spend a lot of time there, they are especially susceptible to the effects of these materials.
Many items in your nursery may go through the process of off-gassing, which means they release toxic gases into the air. Some common materials and chemicals to avoid in nursery furniture, crib mattresses and other items for babies include:
PVC (polyvinyl chloride)
This type of plastic, also known as vinyl, can release dangerous fumes, including dioxin, a known carcinogen. It’s used in some nursery furniture and accessories, such as changing pads and high chairs, so check the label or ask the manufacturer before buying a baby item containing PVC.
Flame retardants
These chemicals have been linked to a variety of health problems, including cancer and hormone disruption. Fire retardants are used in mattresses and upholstered furniture as well as textiles, so pick items that are Greenguard GOLD certified or use natural flame retardants such as wool, PLA or silica.
Phthalates
These chemicals are often found in plastic toys and other items, such as plastic bottles or feeding sets, and they can disrupt hormones causing a variety of health issues. Many phthalates are known endocrine disruptors and have been linked to a variety of health problems.
Lead and other heavy metals
These metals can be harmful to developing brains and bodies, and they’ve been found to damage the central nervous system. They’re often found in paint, other finishes, and mattresses, so be sure to choose lead-free baby products.
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen and can cause irritation and breathing problems. It’s often found in furniture, carpets and other baby items, so avoid baby products that contain it. Choose products made in the USA or Europe with stricter regulations and pay attention to safety certificates before buying.
VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds)
These are emitted from certain materials such as paint, adhesives, & finishes. VOCs can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, nausea, and dizziness. Look for low or zero-VOC products, such as paints, mattresses, carpets, whenever possible.
It’s very difficult to completely eliminate VOC from your home, so to reduce your child’s exposure, increase ventilation in the nursery, regularly open the windows and use an air purifier.
PFAS chemicals
These chemicals have been linked to a variety of health problems, including developmental and other adverse effects. They can be found in stain-resistant fabrics on sofas or chairs and carpets. Be sure to choose Greenguard GOLD certified items and GOTS certified rugs to make sure your baby is not exposed to these chemicals in the nursery.
Read More: Eco-Friendly and Natural Baby Wipes
Conclusion
Creating a non toxic nursery is not as difficult as it may seem. By following a few simple tips, you can create a safe and healthy environment for your baby. Be sure to use natural materials whenever possible and avoid harsh chemicals.
Always read the labels on cribs, crib mattresses and other baby nursery items to check if a product is safe for use in a nursery and if it’s got the right certificates, such as Greenguard GOLD, GOTS, and Oeko-Tex. These certificates show that a product has been tested and found to be free from toxins and safe for babies.
Creating a non toxic nursery is not only good for your baby’s health, but it can also be good for the environment. Choosing natural and sustainable materials can help reduce the amount of toxic chemicals in the world. So why not give it a try and create a safe space for your little one?
Read More: Best Organic and Natural Crib Mattress Toppers
About the Author Kamila Flieger
My name is Kamila, and I'm passionate about researching non-toxic, organic products for the home. I believe it's so important to create a safe and healthy environment for our families, and I enjoy helping others do the same.
