Non Toxic Nursery Essentials

Creating a safe haven where our little ones can sleep, play, grow and thrive is a necessity - particularly when we consider how vulnerable their small body's are to the harmful effects of toxic chemicals. In fact, research has shown that infants have been exposed to over 200 chemicals, pollutants, and pesticides before they even take their first breath. There are over 40,000 chemicals in rotation in the U.S. and there are currently no requirements in place to prove safety prior to being used in consumer goods. Yes, even when those products are created for pregnant women and infants.

Sadly, products created for babies tend to be some of the worst offenders. Infant products are often high in flame retardants (linked to endocrine disorder, lower IQ, ADD); phthalates (linked to developmental disorders, asthma + infertility), formaldehyde (known carcinogen) and BPA/ BPS (endocrine disruptors).

Studies have shown that even extremely low exposures to toxins during critical periods - including gestation and childhood - can have life long negative impacts.

Thankfully we as parents get the choice to bring safe, nontoxic products into our homes. Making it a priority to choose safe, toxin-free products in our homes - specifically in the rooms our children frequent - has a profound impact not only on childhood health, but on lifelong wellness.

Here are some of my tried and true nontoxic nursery favorites:

Avocado Green Mattress - We have an Avocado Mattress in both Reese's crib and Sammy's full size big boy bed. If there is one place I recommend starting when transitioning to a safer room for your children, I always recommend beginning with the mattress. Mattresses are some of the worst offenders for off gasing VOCs due to the polyurethane, flame retardants and plastics they contain. Because this chemical release occurs right next to the body for an extended period of time when the body is supposed to be focused on rest and repair, it can have a significant negative impact on children. Fortunately, this is a simple swap - and one you only have to do once! We specifically choose Avocado Green because they are certified organic, don't use any polyurethane foams, are a B corp, and are made in the U.S.
Organic Mattress Protector - Inevitably a soak through will occur at some point with your baby, and having a mattress protector in place will help prevent the crib mattress from damage. Ensure you are getting one made out of organic materials with no flame retardants used.

Organic Crib Sheets - We use and love Burt’s Bees organic cotton crib sheets. After trying several different types (many that are far more expensive), theirs are my favorite for softness and affordability! (Mom tip: don’t forget to grab a pack up for those inevitable soak through kind of nights.)

Crib - Furniture can be a big source of toxins in a nursery, so I always opt for one that is Greenguard Certified and finished with nontoxic stain/ paint. Babyletto cribs are what I've used for both kids and we love them. Pottery Barn also has some great options, and this solid beech wood crib from IKEA is a great budget-friendly crib.

Glider - Gliders tend to be another hidden source of potential toxins, particularly because flame retardants are often used. We have a Babyletto and a Pottery Barn glider that are both Greenguard Certified and don’t use flame retardants.

Organic Cotton Pajamas - In a perfect world, all of our children’s clothes would be made of organic cotton. For our family, we aren’t there yet but I do prioritize organic cotton pajamas. I love these ones for Reese and these for Sammy. These are my favorite for babies!

Products - Baby products can be a potent source of toxins as the products used on skin are absorbed directly into the body. Here is the great thing: babies (barring accentuating circumstances) need very little in the way of products. Even natural products can disrupt the delicate skin microbiota of young children. I’ve found water to be the best for keeping babies clean! (When I absolutely have to use soap, I use this one.)

Organic Cotton Towels

Air filter - Indoor air can be between 10-20 times more polluted than outdoor air, and with babies spending 90% of their time indoors and breathing at a substantially higher rate than adults - this can be a recipe for toxin overload. We keep air filters in each of our children’s rooms (and make sure to open the windows for at least 30 minutes daily). (Also, eliminating any artificial fragrances in the home has a profound impact on indoor air quality.)

Feeding Supplies - This is perhaps outside of the scope of a nontoxic nursery, but the way in which breastmilk or formula or stored and given to baby is one of the greatest influences on their toxic load. Whenever possible, choose glass bottles (we like these), stainless steel bottles (my favorite one), and silicone/ glass/ stainless steel storage milk and formula containers.

Car Seats - Again, not a part of the nursery specifically, but can be a potent source of toxin exposure so worth mentioning. Always opt for a car seat that does not use flame retardants. Because they are in a confined space and often heat up, the chemical exposure is amplified. We use this infant car seat and this toddler car seat.

Other Tips

Purchasing items second hand is a great way to reduce chemical exposure. Because the chemicals have already off gassed, exposure will be greatly reduced. We particularly love buying clothing second for this reason! (Avoid purchasing mattresses and car seats second hand, however, for safety.)
As mentioned above, opening windows is a huge help in maintaining clean air quality. As often as possible (temperature allowing), allow the windows to be open to allow for air flow.