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How to Create a Non-Toxic Nursery for Your Baby

Posted By: Truly Free Home

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Posted On: 6/8/2025

Simple, safe steps for a healthier home for baby from day one

Welcoming a new baby into your home is exciting—and, let’s be honest, a little overwhelming. As a parent-to-be, you're probably researching things like  non-toxic cribs, changing tables, gliders, dressers, and low VOC paint for the nursery non-stop. 

There are so many decisions to make. One of the most impactful choices you can make is to set up a non-toxic nursery designed with the health and safety of your baby in mind. The good news is that a non-toxic nursery set-up doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Let’s walk through the basics of setting up a nursery that’s not only baby-ready, but also truly safe for your whole family.

Why a Non-Toxic Nursery Matters

Babies are more vulnerable to harsh chemicals because their tiny bodies are still developing. Many conventional household cleaners, paints, and furnishings can be toxic, containing ingredients that may be linked to respiratory issues, hormone disruption, or skin irritation–definitely not baby-safe.

And remember: If it’s harmful for your baby, it’s likely not great for anyone in your home. (Pets included!) A non-toxic nursery is a step toward a safer, healthier home for everyone.

Step 1: Choose Non-Toxic Nursery Furniture

  • Opt for solid wood: Avoid particleboard and MDF, which can release formaldehyde. Look for non-toxic solid wood cribs and dressers labeled “low-VOC” or “no added formaldehyde.”

  • Skip chemical flame retardants: These are often found in baby mattresses, gliders, and upholstered furniture. Instead, choose items labeled as free from flame retardants.
  • Let it air out: If you’ve purchased new nursery furniture, unbox it and let it off-gas in a well ventilated space for a few days before putting it in the nursery.

Step 2: Nursery Prep the Non-Toxic Way

  • Low or no-VOC paint: Traditional paints can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for months. Choose non-toxic, water-based paint for the nursery and paint well before your baby arrives.

  • Wash all fabrics: Baby clothes, crib sheets, swaddling blankets should be washed in a non-toxic baby-safe laundry detergent (like Truly Free Home’s  Laundry Wash) before the baby uses them.

  • Keep things simple: Avoid clutter and keep the plush toys to a minimum to reduce dust and allergens.

Step 3: Baby-Proof Everything

A non-toxic nursery is also a physically safe home. Start baby-proofing before your little one is mobile—it comes sooner than you think!

  • Anchor heavy furniture: Dressers, bookshelves, and changing tables should be secured to the wall.

  • Cover outlets and cords: Use outlet covers and cord shorteners to prevent electrical hazards.

  • Use safety latches: Keep cleaning supplies and medications locked away, even the non-toxic ones.

Step 4: Improve Air Quality

Open the windows: Fresh air helps clear out indoor toxins.  

Add air-purifying plants: Consider baby-safe plants like spider plants or bamboo palms.

Use an air purifier: Choose one with a HEPA filter to remove allergens, dust, and VOCs..

Step 5: Clean with Non-Toxic Baby-Safe Cleaning Products

Your baby’s skin is delicate, and their immune system is still developing. Harsh cleaning chemicals are not safe for baby and can do more harm than good.

Make the Switch to Plant-Based Baby-Friendly Cleaning Products

Setting up a baby-safe, non-toxic nursery doesn’t have to be perfect. Every small swap you make is a big win for your baby’s health and your peace of mind. You’re doing a beautiful thing by creating a space where your baby can grow, breathe, and thrive without worrying about common household toxins making your family sick.

Here’s a list of the baby-friendly cleaning products we recommend you swap in before baby arrives:

Truly Free Home has a complete line of non-toxic, baby-safe laundry products and baby-safe cleaning supplies, including everything you need for the bathroom and kitchen. So you can make your entire home safe for baby and everyone else who lives there.

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