How To Create An Eco Friendly Nursery

Got a wee one on the way? Here’s how to create an eco friendly, non toxic nursery

By Diane Small

Welcoming a new baby into your home is one of life’s most beautiful experiences. As you prepare your baby’s nursery, it’s the perfect time to create a safe, healthy environment that nurtures your little one—and the planet too.

From the furniture you choose to the paint on the walls, every decision matters. We are surrounded by toxins in our daily lives. Perhaps now more than any other time in human history! So why not give your baby the best start in life by creating an eco friendly nursery, where she or he will spend most of her or his early years?

Not sure where to start? We’ve got ten easy tips on how you can design a non toxic nursery that’s also kind to the Earth.

10 Tips For A Non Toxic Nursery

1. Choose Low-VOC or Zero-VOC Paint

Conventional paints release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can linger in the air long after application. Whether you’re painting walls, furniture, or even just wooden toys, opt for low-VOC or zero-VOC paints. These will ensure your baby’s nursery air stays clean and safe.

Not sure where to buy them? We have a great article about non toxic paints!

2. Invest in Natural Furniture

Instead of particleboard or MDF (which often contain formaldehyde), go for natural materials. These include: solid wood, rattan or bamboo cribs, dressers, and shelves. Also look for pieces finished with non toxic, water-based stains or natural oils for a safer, longer-lasting option.

Not sure where to find such pieces? If you’re in the UK, CuddleCo is a leading brand in nursery furniture and decor. It’s known for its dedication to stylish, high-quality, and practical designs that cater to modern families.

From handcrafted rattan pieces to innovative storage solutions, CuddleCo offers a curated range that transforms any nursery into a beautiful, well-organised haven.

3. Use Organic Bedding and Textiles

From crib sheets to curtains, choose items made from organic cotton, bamboo, or other natural materials. These are grown without harmful pesticides and processed without toxic chemicals, making them gentle on your baby’s sensitive skin.

In addition, your baby will spend a lot of time sleeping, so invest in a non toxic crib mattress that’s Greenguard Gold certified. This ensures it’s been tested for low chemical emissions and contributes to healthier indoor air.

A good place to shop for an organic baby mattress (or even one for kids, or yourself!) is Avocado Mattress.

4. Skip Synthetic Rugs and Go Natural

When your wee one starts toddling, you’ll probably want to buy a rug so he or she is more comfortable with those inevitable tumbles. But remember this: rugs made from synthetic fibres often contain dangerous chemicals, such as flame retardants and plasticisers. These can irritate your baby’s lungs, skin, eyes, and even cause long term health issues!

For a more eco friendly nursery, choose rugs made from soft, thick wool organic cotton. They’re naturally durable, biodegradable, and non toxic. And beautiful!

5. Be Mindful Of Toys

Plastic toys and accessories should be avoided at all costs! They can contain BPA, phthalates, and other harmful chemicals. And we all know that kids tend to put anything in their mouths, which makes things worse! Try to reduce plastic in the nursery and instead choose items made from wood, silicone, or recycled materials that are certified safe for infants.

6. Use Natural Cleaning Products

Clean the nursery with plant-based, fragrance-free cleaning products. Harsh cleaners can leave behind residues that may be harmful to your baby’s – and your own – health.

Not sure where to find them? There are lots of great brands to choose from. These include Mrs Meyers, The Honest Co, and our favourite, Dr Bronner’s. Still not sure? You can even make your own with vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils.

We’ve also put a great article together on how to do your laundry without toxins. Take a look – you’re gonna have a lot of laundry!

7. Be Aware Of EMFs

This is an important – but often overlooked – tip on how to create an eco friendly nursery.

By now, we all know that wifi and blue light can interrupt our sleep. So you can imagine how harmful these are for wee ones!

EMF stands for Electromagnetic Fields, which is a field of energy that surrounds a particular area or object.

Babies are particularly vulnerable to the effects of EMFs for two reasons. First, their brains are more conductive, since they contain more water, and their skulls are not fully formed. Secondly, they have more stem cells in their systems, and these are more vulnerable to damage.

There is now major evidence that increased exposure to EMFs in early childhood increases the risk of brain cancer and leukemia.

In addition, if a baby is overexposed to EMFs during pregnancy, it increases the risk of behavioural problems.

So our advice?

Don’t breastfeed whilst you’re on your phone.
Keep any wifi connected objects out of the nursery.
Do not set up your nursery anywhere near a smart metre or wifi router.
Try not to buy a home near wifi towers, if possible.
Don’t use wifi-based baby monitors or toys.
If you cannot avoid living near wifi towers or being near EMFs, try using EMF blocking onesies made from organic cotton. They are surprisingly affordable.

8. Incorporate Secondhand or Upcycled Items

Giving gently used furniture or décor a new life is not only budget-friendly but also environmentally smart. And lots of people are trying to get rid of old baby stuff, so it’s a win-win!

Check out sites like Craig’s List or Freecycle to see what you can find. Just make sure items meet current safety standards and are free from chipping paint or toxic finishes.

9. Improve Indoor Air Quality

Of course you want your babe to breathe the freshest air possible. So why not add a few air-purifying plants (like spider plants or snake plants) to the nursery? Just make sure they’re non-toxic to babies and pets. Also, open windows regularly to let fresh air in.

10. Avoid Synthetic Fragrances

Having a baby means lots of amazing life transformations. More love, more cuddles, more hope, more smiles. But also…more poop. And given this fact, it’s tempting to want to use air fresheners or scented candles to keep the scent of the nursery fresh. But don’t give in! These, and even some baby products, contain synthetic fragrances and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can irritate little lungs.

Choose naturally scented products with essential oils instead (in moderation). And avoid any baby wipes that are artificially scented of course, too!

Creating an eco friendly nursery is a beautiful way to begin your journey into motherhood with intention and care. By focusing on non toxic nursery essentials, you’re giving your baby a cleaner, healthier start in life—and setting the tone for a greener home overall.

You don’t have to be perfect—just thoughtful. Every little change helps!

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Diane Small

A University of Texas journalism graduate and serious chocolate enthusiast, Diane was a sub-editor at the Houston Chronicle before falling pregnant. Today, she is the proud mom of two kids under the age of three, and freelances for Eluxe in between nappy changes and feedings.