Sometimes we can get so caught up in the design of a nursery, that we forget to check the quality and chemicals present in the things we are purchasing. Baby’s have very sensitive skin and absorb a lot of what their skin comes in contact with. Also, since their brain, nervous system and bones are still developing once they are born, you really want to provide them with the utmost quality bedding /sheets, since newborns and babies tend to spend a LOT of their time sleeping. In fact, recent statistics show that babies spend as much as 70% of their time in their cribs!

First off, you want to pick bedding/sheet that are organic! 

Mitani are my favorite organic sheets for the nursery. Not only are they super stylish with their contemporary theme but you can really go with any design you choose.  Though priced higher than your basic crib sheet, there is nothing ‘basic’ about this product as they have incredible benefits such as:

1. Proudly Made in Vancouver, Canada 

2. 100% Certified organic cotton with low impact dyes.

3. Magnificently contemporary and detailed- a rare combination to find in traditional stores.

4. French seamed corners ensure the highest quality guard against fraying.

Why does one need organic bedding for their nursery?

1. Avoid Volatile Organic Compounds

A lot of new mattresses and flooring contain volatile organic compounds that are not off-gassed after manufacturing. Specifically, the VOCs are found in the foam and adhesive parts of the mattress {funny how memory foam mattresses are so good for you back, but can be bad for your health} and can include harmful chemicals such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), formaldehyde, benzene (carcinogenic chemical), methylene chloride, toluene, trichloroethane, naphthalene, perfluorocarbons.

How to avoid VOC’s in your mattress?

There are many things you can do to avoid mattresses with VOCs and other harmful chemicals. As previously mentioned, we HIGHLY recommend the amazing, soft, incredible quality mattresses and organic products from the company Organic Lifestyle. You can see a lot of the positive customer testimonials here. An added bonus – you can even buy their mattress products online – woo!

 

An alternative option to purchasing a natural organic mattress is natural bamboo flooring in the nursery room. Bamboo flooring contains much less, if any off-gassing chemicals and is hypo-allergenic (much better than carpet for your little one). It’s also better for the environment – derived from a completely renewable resource and has a comparable warranty and pricing to conventional hardwood floors.

2. Avoid Fire Retardant Chemicals

Shockinly, most mattresses contain toxic fire retardant chemicals that leach into the air over time – these chemicals have been linked to ADHD and SIDS (Source: globe and mail, May 30, 2006).

You can avoid fire retardant chemicals is by purchasing a “natural rubber crib mattress”. Not only are they hypoallergenic (contain no synthetic materials), but natural rubber is resistant to dust mites by nature. Furthermore, your baby will get a better sleep because natural products are known to regulate body temperature and reduce tossing and turning.

3. Avoid Allergies, Asthma and Rashes

Asthma and allergies are worsened by dust mites which hare common in most mattresses. To avoid this, we highly recommend an organic mattress.

4. Avoid Cancer Causing Chemicals

Did you know that five of the top 9 pesticides used on conventional cotton in the U.S. are known cancer-causing chemicals? (source: organicconsumer.org)

You can avoid pesticides by choosing chemical and dye-free products, such as  Organic Cotton crib sheets. Furthermore, organic cotton crib sheets are much stronger than traditional cotton fiber (hence they last longer). Organic cotton is also better for the environment – conventional cotton uses 25% of worldwide insecticides.

5. Reduce Toxin Exposure

Conventional cotton  fabrics and mattresses contains toxic chemicals from harsh cleansers and dyes. These chemicals can include, but are not limited to ammonia formaldehyde and volatile organic hydrocarbons.

 

Where to Find Organic Sourced Fabrics and Furniture For Your Nursery?

One website where you can find great organic bedding options for you baby is Organic Lifestyle. I have personally met the founder myself and was blown away by their level of commitment, knowledge and quality of the products.

To learn more about how to make your nursery “organic” click on the link below. It should take you to the organic lifestyle website.

 

 

Below is a great option for a bassinet cover. It’s waterproof and organic!