If you are awaiting the arrival of a precious little bundle, thoughts will be turning to baby’s room. While you’re contemplating different cribs, colours, and decorations, you may also want to consider ways to make your baby’s room more eco-friendly. From safer paint choices to ensuring good air quality, here are just a few eco-friendly options for your new nursery (or really for any area of your home).
Paint
Choose paints and primers with no or low levels of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), as VOC emissions from drying paint could have adverse health effects. VOCs may persist in the air long after painting is finished, so paint well in advance of baby’s arrival and air the room afterwards.
Wallpaper
If you prefer the nursery walls to have texture, pattern or bold primary colours, wallpaper is a great option. There are a range of eco-friendly wallpapers available that are made with water-based, chemical-free inks. You can even make your own chemical-free wallpaper paste from a simple base of flour and water.
Floors
Cork flooring or wood floors treated with a non-toxic sealer are good eco-choices. An organic cotton or wool rug will make the room cozier and cut down on noise. If you prefer carpeting, look for a Green Label Plus certified carpet as they’re made with less hazardous, lower emitting materials.
Crib
Eco-friendly cribs are often made with sustainable wood coated with non-toxic stain or paint. Crib mattresses made of wool, organic cotton or 100% natural latex are great eco-choices, but tend to be more expensive. Alternatively, if you use a regular mattress, you could top it off with an organic mattress pad.
Fresh Air
One of the most cost-effective solutions is to use non-toxic cleansers when cleaning baby’s room. Babies are more vulnerable to air pollution, so investing in an air purifier would also help cut down on chemicals, gases and allergens. Open windows daily to let in fresh air.
Just a few eco-friendly adjustments will help make your nursery and home a happy, safe haven for all. Enjoy!
