6 ways to detox your baby’s nursery
Getting ready for a new baby means creating a space that feels calm, cosy and safe.
But sometimes hidden nasties can sneak in that you might not expect - in things like paint, furnishings, and even cleaning products.
The good news is, with just a few small swaps, you can create a fresh, natural space that feels good for both you and your baby. Here are six simple changes we recommend to help you detox your little one’s nursery.
1. Choose low-tox furnishings & paint
You and bub will be spending a lot of time together in the nursery, so it’s important to keep the air as fresh as possible.
Did you know standard paints, varnishes, and furniture can ‘off-gas’ - give off VOCs (volatile organic compounds) – for months or even years after decorating is done? Try choosing low-VOC paints and opting for natural fibres and solid wood or eco-certified furniture; that way you’ll reduce exposure to those unwanted fumes and create a much healthier breathing space.
2. Swap to plant-based cleaning products
Little lungs are sensitive, so we really want to avoid harsh chemical cleaners on nursery surfaces. At the same time, tiny babies create some shockingly big messes! From sticky fingerprints and spit ups to poo-splosions on the change table, you’ll need a cleaner that can handle anything.
We had exactly this dilemma in mind when we created our Euky Bear Baby Nursery Cleaner – made with Aussie eucalyptus, it’s tough enough to tackle all the stains and messes mum life throws your way, but with a plant-based formula that’s gentle around little ones.
3. Freshen the air naturally
We know air fresheners smell nice, but many contain synthetic fragrances that can irritate babies’ sensitive noses. You might be surprised by some of the clever natural options you can use instead.
Let’s start with one of the smelliest offenders: the nappy bin. We’ve found a spritz of our Euky Bear Sniffly Nose Room Spray is super effective here, helping deodorise and kill germs using pure essential oils.
For bed time or nap time, a light, soothing scent can be wonderful sleep cue – and with organic lavender, our Euky Bear Sleepy Time Linen & Room Mist* is our go-to for this.
And if you’re a fan of plug-ins for a continuous scent, a much better option is our Euky Bear Sweet Dreams Sleep Aid and baby-friendly diffuser oils*. It runs for hours so you can enjoy time with your baby without adding to your home’s chemical load, surrounded by the scents of nature.
*suitable from 3+ months
4. Go natural with fabrics
We’re big fans of natural fibres – think organic cotton, pure wool or bamboo – and that’s for two reasons. Firstly, they’re often softer on delicate baby skin, and secondly, they’re less likely to be chemically processed.
When you think about how fabrics surround your little one’s skin for hours at a time, it makes sense to avoid synthetic dyes and chemicals as much as possible. As a bonus, natural fibres are often more breathable, which means baby stays comfy snuggled up, even in warmer weather.
5. Keep dust and allergens at bay
Nobody likes to think about dust mites but unfortunately, they’re probably there… even in your baby’s room.
We recommend washing bedding, clothes, and even favourite soft toys frequently to reduce allergen exposure. Not sure which detergent to use? Euky Bear’s got you covered – our Euky Bear Baby Laundry Liquid removes dust mites while caring for delicate fabrics and your baby’s sensitive skin.
Don’t forget to get a vacuum that uses a HEPA filter to capture fine particles, and regularly vacuum the carpet, curtains and bub’s mattress too.
6. Add a plant!
Houseplants don’t just look beautiful — many varieties naturally filter the air too, removing harmful VOC’s and absorbing pollutants.
According to Bunnings, these are the Top 12 air purifying plants.
Of these, our top picks for the nursery include:
• Bamboo Palm
• Boston Fern
• Peace lily
• Gerbera
As your baby grows, always check if your house plants are safe to be ingested, because as we all know, anything within reach can end up in your toddler’s mouth!
Detox rocks
At Euky Bear, we believe that small swaps can make a big difference when it comes to living low-tox. From plant-based cleaners to natural fabrics and a touch of greenery, detoxing your baby’s nursery really can be easier than you think!
With Euky Bear’s help, you can feel confident knowing you’re giving your little one the healthiest start possible: a clean, fresh and calm space for your baby to rest and grow.
References:
https://www.health.org.au/2022/07/14/air-freshners-how-toxic/
https://scitechdaily.com/worse-than-car-exhaust-your-favorite-air-fresheners-could-be-filling-the-air-with-dangerous-pollutants/
