We are re-decorating our home. Good bye old carpets and wall paper. In all that rush to get everything done before holidays I realize I do not know what to do with my son's nursery. It is still very new, since we only set it up about a year and a half ago right before he was born. Being completely unaware of all the toxins hidden in our household items like vinyl in wallpaper, formadehyde in carpets and wrinkle resistant curtains, paint and laminate floors we just wanted it to look pretty and well...baby like.
But what has to be done - has to be done! Going through tons of materials to choose from I outlined the most basic things, like carpeting, paint, furniture and bedding that should be as "clean" as possible:
Floors. Yes, a soft polyester carpet in bright colors might seem like a perfect choice, but it off-gasses toxic chemicals right into the air your little one is breathing. Vinyl flooring is a big no-no. A much healthier alternative is a natural, easy to clean surface like inexpensive and stylish bamboo or other prefinished wood flooring. Throw a rug on top with a no-skid undermat, something you can wash and air dry once in a while.
Furniture. Most of the furniture you see in the stores today is made with chipboard and pressboard. The glue that holds it together contains formaldehyde which can off-gas into the air for years! Which is why choosing a solid wood or metal furniture is your best option health-wise. While it can be quite pricey, buying used furniture can save you hundreds of dollars. The only thing you should not get second-hand is a crib, for safety reasons.
Bedding and clothing. Did you know that most of baby bedding is treated with fire resistant chemicals and most of new clothing contains formaldehyde? The least you can do is to wash everything before using it to help draw out harmful chemicals. But better yet, choose clothing and bedding made with organic and natural fibers that are chemical-free.
Windows. Stick with wooden or metal blinds and don't buy wrinkle resistant curtains. As pretty as they may look they all contribute to the chemicals off-gas into the air your family is breathing.
Personal care products. Stuff like air fresheners, fabric softeners adn petrolium based body care products all contain potential cancerogens and irritants. While shopping, look for natural and organic skin care products. Stay away from heavy scented lotions, creams and shampoos. They may contain phtalates and parabens, potent endocrine disruptors and irritants.
Once you start "greening up" your home, the possibilities are endless! Don't stop there, choose organic and local food, use less plastic, drive smaller car. Your children will thank you for this.
Blessings,
Natallia. Organic Mom and Founder of Organic By Nature company.
http://www.organicbynature.ca
The sharks are caught, their fins are cut off and their bodies (still alive!) are thrown back into the ocean to die...I can't write this without crying...
Natallia.
