Creating a Green Nursery for Infant Health

Tips for Creating a Green Nursery offers several ways to reduce pollutants and sensitivities in the home nursery.

PAINT is the basic. Many paints emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which can be dangerous for pregnant womena and babies. Low-VOC paints or natural paints made with a milk-base are a better choice.

MATTRESS. Synthetic materials containing polyurethane foam and potentially toxic chemicals can have an affect on babies who sleep on them as much as 10 to 14 hours a day. Organic mattresses are now available.

BEDDING. Crib sheets and blankets are now available in organic cotton.

FURNITURE. Avoid laminated wood, pressed wood, chipboard and particle board which are made with formaldehyde, a carcinogen. Choose furniture made from solid hard wood painted with eco-friendly paint or finishes. Or buy used furniture and coat it with a water-based polyurethane sealer.

FLOORS. The backing on new wall-to-wall carpeting may also emit formaldehyde and many carpets are treated with stain-proofing chemicals, etc. They can be neurotoxins. The alternative is finishing wood floors with products low in VOCs. True linoleum is made of natural materials. Cork is another eco-friendly choice.


ECOFRIENDLY PRODUCTS are available at local shops and online. You can find sources at directories such as National Green Pages and GreenBiz.

In Southern California you will find quality information and green nursery products at:

Green For Baby at 2989 E. Thousand Oaks Bl., Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
Phone: 805-230-2201

The Living Green Stores in Culver City and Santa Barbara also carry quality and sustainable home products:

Living Green, Santa Barbara: 218 Helena Avenue, Phone 866-966-1319

Los Angeles / Culver City: 10000 Culver Boulevard, Phone: 310-838-8442