Creating a Healthy, Eco-Nursery
by Michelle Bexelius
When Dr. Cates and I were approached to do a segment on “It’s Easy Being Green” TV series, the first thing we thought of was to design an eco-nursery. We felt it was so important to introduce fresh, healthy, green living to new parents and to their new babies. Tune in on July 5th and July 20th at 11:30 pst on the Fine Living Channel to see the nursery revealed!
Here are a few ideas to help create a beautiful, sustainable spot for your beloved baby –
1. No-VOC paint: Being a new parent is exciting and so it’s understandable to get excited to decorate the new baby’s nursery. Parents make a trip to the paint store buying paint that has high VOC’s (Volatile Organic Compounds), which off-gas into the air for a good couple of years. It may look great, but the air quality is sacrificed. Today there are many alternatives such as Envirocoat, which have low VOC’s. There is no smell, they dry extremely fast and look just as good.
2. Healthy Flooring: The air quality in your little one’s room is very important. Carpet can also contribute to toxic fumes in the air. Natural wool carpet or bamboo flooring are healthier alternatives. You may also want to get a high quality air purifier to help clean the air.
3. Solid Wood Furniture: The next big thing is furniture. Many couples go to chain stores and pick up cribs and dressers/changers made from melamine, particle board and plywood filled with toxic formaldehyde glues and stains. Opt for cribs and furniture that are made from solid sustainable wood. There are many companies that are creating stylish pieces that are modern and eco-conscious. Check these out from Green this Life.
4. Organic bedding and mattresses: Babies sleep much of the time and spend numerous hours tucked in their special bed, so why not make it the healthiest it can be? I suggest outfitting your babe’s crib in organic cotton sheets and blankets. Next, the mattress should be made from organic cotton, wool, or natural latex. The reason being, traditional mattresses are coated with fire retardants, formaldehyde, and stain removal chemicals.
5. Organic Clothing: One of the most fun things to do is buy your little one outfits. Make sure they are made from organic cotton or bamboo fibers. There are many companies making the switch. They are adorable, stylish and fun without the pesticides touching your baby’s skin. If you can’t always buy organic, wash the clothes at least 3 times with phosphate free laundry detergent prior to wearing.
Creating a safe haven for your baby is vital to their health. Many products contain harmful toxins that later may lead to health issues. Make a fresh start by choosing items that you know are pure and sustainable. See the list of toxins to avoid in your baby’s skin care products and rest easy knowing they don’t contain them it it.
For more tips on products and how to create a safe, stylish environment for your little one that is pure and sustainable, contact Green This Life’s eco-consultants.