In a perfect world every parent would have the nursery of their dreams in brand new, eco-conscious, perfectly matched sets. In reality, a nursery's primary furniture – the crib, changing table, storage and rocking chair – are often obtained second hand. If this is true of your space, congratulate yourself on observing a major tenet of green living: reuse. Take it a step further by incorporating natural, non-toxic and baby-safe decor and accessories. It's never too late to go green – even if your nursery is already in full use.
Next to your arms, the crib is your baby's safest place. Make his bed with all natural materials like cotton and wool instead of synthetics that don't breathe as well. Since a baby's sensitive skin is especially vulnerable to hidden toxins and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), choose organic fabrics for items that come in constant contact with him. Blankets, sheets, bumper, pillow covers and changing pad covers are a great place to start.
As your baby grows, so will your storage needs. The best green practice is simply investing in good materials and design. Instead of using plastic bins and containers to store toys and supplies, choose natural fabric buckets, cotton canvas boxes and woven fiber baskets and hampers. By selecting versatile storage that can nest, collapse, be washed and labeled and still be stylish, you extend their life and use throughout your home. That means less waste in the long run.
Requesting eco-friendly gifts and decor for the nursery is a great way to invite others to participate in the greening process. Plush dolls, knit stuffed animals and wood toys and teethers are much safer than common plastic toys made of lead-and-toxin-heavy PVC. Minimally treated wool or yarn area rugs backed by cotton canvas are better than latex or vinyl backings that outgas over time. Also, make sure that lights use compact fluorescent bulbs, especially night lights that stay on for hours. Sticking to a natural palette – linen curtains and cushions, wood tables and picture frames – makes conscious decorating easy.
