What to Buy for An Eco-Friendly Nursery
What to Buy for An Eco-Friendly Nursery!
When you find out you are expecting a baby, you face a series of emotions. Excitement, nervousness, more excitement and then the planning starts. You immediately begin thinking about everything you need to buy to make sure your baby has a safe and comfortable place to come home to. Before choosing the items for your nursery you want to consider the healthiest and safest options for both your baby, and the world your baby will grow up in.
Taking these extra steps to make sure your baby's space is safe and sustainable can be costly, especially when creating a nursery from scratch. Having a budget in mind and saving for the costs ahead of time will ensure you are able to purchase the items you need. In order to get the specific items you need, ensure you’re making the most of your registry by asking for these items to help you save in the long run. If you plan on doing a lot of renovations to your home and nursery you might want to look into refinancing your mortgage to help aid with extra renovation costs. By refinancing you can lower your monthly payment, leaving more money in your pocket for nursery additions.
Remember when choosing products for your nursery research different options and decide what will be best for you and your family, as well as the environment. Below are the ways to incorporate organic and eco-friendly options into your new nursery.
So here we go, what to buy for an eco-friendly nursery:
1. ECO-FRIENDLY WALLS & CARPETS
Starting with the basics, you’ll want to look into having non toxic walls and flooring. Since your baby will spend a lot of time in the nursery, you’ll want it to be free of harmful chemicals. Peel and stick wallpaper can be a safer alternative or, if you plan on painting, vegan paint is a more sustainable option.
For the flooring, if you are looking to purchase a rug, focus on handmade versus machine made. Having a rug that has been knitted or hand designed will ensure you don’t have to worry about extra toxins coming into your home. The best fabrics are jute or cotton. If your budget allows, buying a certified organic rug is also a great option.
2. ORGANIC MATTRESSES & CRIBS
One of the most important aspects of the nursery will be the crib and the mattress that your baby sleeps on. This is especially crucial because your baby needs to have a place to rest that is comfortable and safe. This is why you want a mattress that is made of safe material. For this purchase focus on certified organic cotton that’s breathable and non-toxic.
You also want to look into a waterproof mattress to help prevent bacteria in your baby's crib or a washable mattress cover. When purchasing a crib you want to make sure it is stable, has no sharp edges, and consider the width of the bars. If you plan on using a bedside bassinet, focus on breathable materials and one that is CPSC approved.
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Image Credit: Oilo Studio
3. ECO-FRIENDLY LINENS
Since our newborn's skin is delicate and sensitive, you’ll want to make sure you’re using high quality towels and linens.
You want to look for items that are Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certified. This means your product not only was made with the materials in mind but ethical labor and environmental practices as well. Look for 100% GOTS organic cotton and opt for hooded towel options to keep your baby warm and cozy after bath time.
When it comes to blankets, swaddles, and sheets you want to keep the same qualifications in mind. You always want to look for items that are comfortable, breathable and soft. When purchasing these types of items remember, organic textiles are best.
4. SUSTAINABLE CLOTHING
Your newborn days will be filled with many diapers and diaper changes. Here you can choose to use cloth or disposable diapers. Cloth diapers in terms of toxins are safer for your baby and the environment. They do involve extra loads of laundry so you want to make sure you are using energy efficient (1) laundry practices by using a washer with a GE symbol.
When looking for clothing items for your new baby organic cotton is, again, a safer option. You want to make sure clothing has no loose threads or buttons that could lead to choking. Also look for fabrics that won’t irritate your baby's skin. You want to consider the laundry products you are using to wash your baby's clothes as well as there are a lot of great options that are organic and eco-friendly.
Image Source: VertBaudet
5. SAFE DECORATIONS & ACTIVITIES
Other items in your nursery that you’ll want to purchase with non-toxic materials are a changing pad and some type of chair for you to sit with your new baby. Look for products that are manufactured in a sustainable way and use organic or green materials. No doubt you and your baby will be reading a lot of books together.
*Designer Tip: Look for the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) Logo or the GreenGuard Gold Logo. These certifications ensure the materials being sourced are more sustainable & ethical.
Try purchasing books that are made from recycled materials. As your baby begins to play there is a huge selection of eco-friendly toys (2) and activities on the market. You can purchase anything from plush dolls to recycled bath time toys.
There are many reasons to provide a space for your baby that is healthy and safe all while doing your part to help the environment. By setting a budget for your eco-friendly nursery and doing research beforehand, you will be prepared when you bring your new baby home.
We hope this article helped you understand what to buy for an eco-friendly nursery! If you have any questions for our team, sign up for a Virtual Design consult or 20 minute phone call. Learn more HERE!
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Sources: (1) The Spruce (2) Sustainably Chic
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