When designing a nursery for your baby, many parents are taking into consideration the environment and products that might be potentially harmful to a newborn. While sticking to solely organic products might seem like a number one priority when creating a green nursery, this can quickly become very expensive. A viable alternative is to choose products that, while are not completely organic, are healthier and the least invasive. In addition to planning the space and picking a theme, there are some specific things to consider when creating a safe environment for your child. The key to designing an eco-friendly nursery is to make the space as toxic-free as possible. This means painting walls, using materials and selecting furniture that is non-toxic. 

Especially if you just moved into a new house or apartment and you don’t know what type of paint has been used, you might want to repaint the room anyway just to be on the safe side. Some types of paint can contain harmful toxins that are released into the air from the walls. Volatile organic compounds, commonly known as VOCs, both the naturally occurring and synthetic kinds, are often regulated, but not industry or state wide. When selecting a paint color, choose a type of paint that is non-toxic with natural pigments like clay. Even when using an odorless paint, try to paint the walls of your nursery one to two months in advance; this will allow the fumes, even non-toxic ones (everything has a scent) to dissipate. 

For a green nursery, the crib should be constructed of natural woods. If a crib made of natural woods is not in your budget, it can be made of a recycled wood product like MDF, but make sure that it has been sealed with some type of a quality, non-toxic, environmentally friendly and easy-to-clean finish.

In order for your green nursery to be a comfortable place to sleep, the crib will need a mattress. For parents concerned about the possible effects of synthetic materials, chemicals or potential allergy-causing compounds, organic innerspring crib mattresses are available. The protective cover that is an integral part of any crib mattress is made of a non-toxic, water-resistant material like white polyethylene, an environmentally friendly plastic. Organic crib mattresses are generally made of organic cottons and wools and for this reason can be somewhat pricey. However, a perfectly acceptable green compromise would be to purchase a foam crib mattress that has a non-toxic or organic cover; this would ensure that your child will not be in direct contact with synthetic materials.

Bamboo is fast becoming the most popular material for eco-friendly products. Manufacturers are now using bamboo fibers for bedding sets, baby clothes and flooring. Bamboo, as a fabric, is also highly absorbent and is soft to the touch, perfect for baby blankets and other baby gear. 

With a little planning ahead, it is easy to create a healthy nursery environment that is eco-friendly. And not only will baby breathe easier!