Create A Non-Toxic Nursery
As you prepare your baby's nursery, it's important to prioritize safety by creating a non-toxic environment. Nursery spaces often contain toxins like BPA, VOCs, and phthalates, which can have harmful effects on health, particularly during infancy.
What are environmental toxins? These are substances in our environment that act as carcinogens, potentially causing cancer, and disrupt hormones. Some toxins occur naturally, such as lead, mercury, or formaldehyde, while others are man-made, like BPA or phthalates.
Infants grow and develop at a rapid pace compared to adults, making them more susceptible to childhood diseases when exposed to endocrine disruptors that affect their hormones.
Here are the top three environmental toxins to avoid in your baby's nursery:
VOCs (volatile organic compounds): These are gases emitted by materials like paint, polyurethane, cleaners, and air fresheners. VOCs contain various chemicals that can lead to respiratory distress, headaches, and damage to the central nervous system. Some VOCs are also known carcinogens.
Phthalates: These are additives commonly found in personal care products, including phthalates, parabens, BPA, and TCC. They are used for their plasticizing and antimicrobial properties. Unfortunately, these ingredients can disrupt the delicate balance of hormones, which is crucial for fertility, pregnancy, and overall health. Phthalate exposure can have adverse effects on male reproductive health, and the effects are even more detrimental during infancy.
BPA (bisphenol A): Another common toxin found in baby nurseries, BPA is present in plastic products and can mimic estrogen in the body. This can disrupt the endocrine system and lead to various health issues.
Exposure to these toxins can pose potential risks, including increased risk for breast cancer, endometriosis, fertility problems, lower birth weights, increased inflammatory biomarkers in both mother and baby, preeclampsia, early labor, and miscarriage.
To create a non-toxic nursery, focus on the following areas:
Mattresses: Babies spend a significant amount of time sleeping, so it's important to choose a mattress that minimizes VOC exposure. Mattresses made with polyurethane foam, which often contains flame retardants, release more VOCs. Look for mattresses made with polyester or wool instead.
Diapers: Whether you opt for cloth or disposable diapers, choose non-toxic materials. Diapers have been found to be a significant source of VOC and phthalate exposure. Consider brands like Coterie, Honest, and Kudos for non-toxic disposable options. If using cloth diapers, select ones made with organic cotton, bamboo, or hemp.
Baby clothes and gear: Plastic toys and teethers often contain phthalates and other endocrine-disrupting chemicals. Choose safer alternatives made from natural rubber, food-grade silicone, untreated hardwood, or organic cotton. Additionally, some clothes, particularly pajamas, may be treated with flame retardants. Opt for snug-fitting pajamas as a safer alternative.
Baby care products: Just like with personal care products for adults, baby care products can contain allergens, EDCs (endocrine-disrupting chemicals), and carcinogens. Look for non-toxic options from brands like California Baby, Primally Pure, Dr. Green Mom and Earth Mama Organics.
Creating a non-toxic nursery may feel overwhelming, but taking small steps and making informed choices will go a long way in providing a safer environment for your baby.
Looking for a list of non-toxic baby brands and ingredients to avoid in products like diapers, wipes, strollers, lotions & more? Get my non-toxic baby product guide now!
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