What are VOCs and how do you keep them out of your nursery?

The process of the release of toxic gasses is called outgassing and although it has its biggest impact in the first few weeks in the life of a new product it can continue to occur for years.

The most commonly known VOC is formaldehyde which is a preserving agent and most commonly found in the glue which binds nursery furniture together and sticks carpets to the floor. It’s also commonly found in cleaning products.

VOCs are not great for anyone to be around, however, infants and babies are more susceptible to them because of their faster breathing rates, smaller lung capacity and their developing immune and nervous systems.

So how do you keep them at bay?

Start at the very beginning

Prospective mums, sorry but more restrictions on you, no painting the nursery; stay well away from any new paint job for at least two weeks and when you enter make sure the room is well ventilated.

Better still avoid painting (or wallpapering which uses glue) a new nursery at all. If you must do it use the lowest VOC paint you can find, oil based is bad, organic is great. Complete the job as well in advance of your new arrival as you can.

Fabric based wall decals that use natural dyes and glues are a perfect alternative to liven up a new nursery.

The cot is critical

Think about how long your baby spends sleeping in their bassinet or cot. That’s a lot of time in a confined space.

Choose a cot that is made from solid timber with a non-toxic finish. Avoid plys, particle board and veneers unless they are specifically identified as being made from low VOC, low emission or formaldehyde free materials or have a toxin-free finish that reduces outgassing. Top off the sleeping arrangements with an organic or natural mattress and pillow.

Unfortunately the availability of these types of products is still limited and generally expensive but we can expect to see lots of new products on the market, hopefully at every price point. Keep an eye on our reviews and blog and we will keep you up to date.

A general overall tip is to allow any new product to ventilate away from humanity for two weeks before use. I know this is not the most practical tip but it’s a worthwhile one.

When they are not in their cot the chances are that they are on the …

Carpet, which a really tricky one when it comes to VOCs because not only do they omit their own but they can trap other VOCs just generally hanging around and then release them when aggravated.

The good news is carpet is so out of fashion these days and any number of dust-free, VOC rejecting floor surfaces can be used in a baby’s nursery or play area. Small carpets or rugs made from natural fibre and dyes can be laid down wherever you need them and regularly taken outside for a clean and air.

Once its toxin-free be cautious with the cleaning

It’s no use going to lots of trouble to create a toxic-free environment for your child if you reintroduce them every time you clean.

Natural ingredients make effective and cheap cleaning products and there is a general acceptance that using them doesn't even make you a hippy. Look online to find some clever recipes for floor, window and all purpose cleaners or invest in some eco/human friendly products.

Generally where to start and where to end can be a bit tricky when it comes to VOCs because they exist in most environments.

Eliminating as many as you can in your child's immediate environment is a good place to start.