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I want to create a nursery for my baby that is both beautiful and
healthy. What things should I consider?
By Vicky Blaine of Inner Space Home Styling
When the nesting instinct kicks in, avoid needlessly exposing yourself
and your baby to harmful toxins. Your choices for a nursery should be as
natural as possible.
Use caution when preparing to renovate a room into a nursery, as many
everyday building and home décor products contain toxins and can emit
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC’s), which are chemicals that evaporate at
room temperature. Exposure has been linked to many health problems, so to be
safe, have someone else do your renovations. Make sure to finish well in
advance of the baby’s arrival, to allow for complete out-gassing of VOC’s.
Floors should ideally be hard surface, for easy cleaning. Hardwood, cork or
natural linoleum are attractive and durable options. Warm up the room with
colourful area rugs of wool or other natural fibers that can be shaken
outside or washed. Synthetic carpet is the least health-friendly choice, as
it contains many chemicals, and is a trap for dust, allergens and other
toxins.
Furniture should also be considered carefully. Many items are made of
pressed wood or MDF, which use formaldehyde resins to bond the particles
together. Buy solid wood whenever possible, or opt for second-hand furniture
that will have already out-gassed most of its harmful chemicals.
Fabrics for upholstery, window coverings and bedding are frequently treated
with chemicals to make them stain- and flame-resistant, and low-maintenance
or permanent press. These chemicals can be inhaled or absorbed through the
skin. Instead, choose natural, untreated fabrics, such as hemp, wool or
cotton. Organic cotton is preferred, as cotton is one of the most heavily
sprayed crops on earth, and residual pesticides can linger in the finished
products. Organic cotton sheets will ensure that nothing but softness
touches your baby’s skin. Wool is a wonderful choice for mattress pads as it
is naturally flame-resistant, temperature regulating, moisture-wicking and
breathable. Hemp is naturally UV resistant, washable and extremely durable;
a great choice for window coverings.
Choosing natural, chemical-free options for a nursery not only creates an
earthy, serene space, but reduces exposure to toxins and ensures that your
baby has a safe environment during this critical time of development.
For more decor advice, please contact Vicky at 403.686.7517 or via e-mail
at inner-space@shaw.ca Visit
her website at
www.innerspacecalgary.com
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