Healthy Begins Here

By Janelle Sorensen

When my first daughter was born, we were on an extremely tight budget. Much as I would have loved an organic crib mattress, sustainable hardwood flooring, and walls painted with no-VOC paint, such was not the case. Far from it.

I know there are many moms out there in the exact same position, and first of all, I want to tell you it’s okay. You do the best you can. You shouldn’t feel guilty for what you can’t do. Focus on what you can do.

Here are three easy and free things you can do to make your baby’s nursery a healthier environment.

Open a window. Even if it’s chilly outside, you should open a window for even five minutes a day to significantly decrease the concentrations of indoor air pollutants in your home. Most home heating and cooling systems, including forced air heating systems, do not mechanically bring fresh air into the house. So open a window and start breathing cleaner air.

Bust dust. Common house dust is loaded with chemicals that have been linked to a variety of health and development issues. Babies are exposed to these chemicals by inhaling dust and through “dust to hand to mouth” activity. Regularly wash bedding, vacuum with a machine that has a HEPA filter, and wipe down surfaces with a damp cloth.

Cut clutter. Keeping the nursery simple not only makes it much easier to tackle the aforementioned dusting, it also means there are fewer items potentially off-gassing or creating additional toxic dust.

No one can do everything. Everyone can do something. Be proud of every small step you take to create a healthy environment.

What are your tips for creating a healthier nursery? Share them in the comments below or in our Newborn and Baby community.