The Ultimate Guide to Designing a Low-Toxin Nursery (Without the Overwhelm)

Expecting a new little one? Congratulations!

Let the nesting (and Googling) begin. If you’re like most new parents (and me), you’re probably starting to realize just how much there is to think about when it comes to setting up the perfect nursery—like, does that adorable crib come with a side of hidden chemicals? Don't worry, you're not alone. Navigating the world of low-toxin baby gear can feel a bit like decoding a secret language, but I’m here to help you create a space that’s not only beautiful and cozy but also as safe and healthy as possible for your little one.

As a mom of two and a professional interior designer, I’ve been where you are—excited, overwhelmed, and maybe a little teary-eyed over the best crib mattress choice. Since my daughter was born ten years ago, I’ve spent countless hours researching the healthiest options for little ones, and I’m here to share my knowledge and help you create a beautiful, low-toxin nursery without the stress spiral. Because let's be honest—you have enough to think about, like how to install a car seat without questioning your entire life’s competence.

Why Low-Toxin Matters for Babies

Babies are tiny, adorable sponges. Their bodies are still developing, they breathe more air per pound than adults, and they spend a LOT of time in their nurseries (sleeping, playing, or staging a crib jailbreak at 3 a.m.). Traditional furniture, paint, and textiles can off-gas chemicals linked to respiratory issues, hormone disruption, and other things I’m guessing you’d rather not think about.

Reducing toxins where it counts most doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style or going full minimalist. It just means making smarter choices where they have the biggest impact—starting with the nursery basics.

The Big Three: Where to Focus Your Energy (and Budget)

1. The Crib & Mattress: Because They Basically Live Here

Your baby will potentially spend 12–16 hours a day sleeping (if you’re one of the lucky ones). A solid wood crib (or one made with minimal MDF, plywood or engineered wood) and an organic, non-toxic mattress free from flame retardants and polyurethane foam is ideal. If you splurge on one thing, let it be this.

Better Choices:

• Solid wood cribs with food-safe/non-toxic finishes are the ideal, but can be cost prohibitive. As an alternate, look for cribs that are mostly solid wood and use engineered/MDF/plywood sparingly and ensure that it is certified Greenguard Gold certified.

• Mattresses made from natural materials like natural latex, cotton and wool and that are MADE SAFE or GOLS-certified are ideal. Avoid mattresses labeled flame-proof or water-proof as these are chemical coatings. I love Naturepedic brand crib mattresses (and used them with my own children).

2. Paint: Because Your Walls Shouldn’t Fume

New paint can off-gas for months, meaning your nursery might smell “fresh” but secretly be pumping VOCs into the air. Low- and zero-VOC paints help avoid that, but some still contain preservatives that can trigger allergies.

Better Choices:

• Zero-VOC paints from ECOS, Clare, or AFM Safecoat (check out my blog post on the best paint brands)

• No-fume, baby-safe primer if you’re covering over a previous owner’s walls (try AFM Safecoat brand)

3. Textiles: Because Babies Lick Everything

From crib sheets to upholstery fabric, your baby’s skin will be in direct contact with textiles all day. Conventional fabrics are often treated with pesticides, formaldehyde, and flame retardants—so opt for natural, organic fibers when possible.

Better Choices:

• Organic cotton crib sheets (look for Oeko-Tex and/or GOTS certified)

• Wool or cotton rugs (preferably with no synthetic backing)

• Linen or cotton curtains

Other Sneaky Sources of Toxins (and Simple Fixes)

• Furniture & Decor: If it’s made of pressed/engineered wood, it’s likely held together with formaldehyde-laden glue. Look for solid wood (though often prohibitively expensive), minimal amounts MDF/engineered wood, or secondhand pieces that have already off-gassed.

• Air Quality: A good HEPA air purifier can help remove VOCs, allergens, and mystery smells from diapers gone rogue. Also, simply opening the windows when possible, vacuuming often and running a fan will do wonders.

• Toys & Play Mats: Go for natural rubber, untreated wood, or organic fabric when possible—because babies explore the world with their mouths. No worries about them playing with some plastic toys - it’s virtually unavoidable in this world!

Final Thoughts: Do What You Can & Let Go of the Rest

I know this can feel like a lot. But the goal isn’t perfection—it’s making thoughtful choices where they matter most. If you can swap out a few key things and avoid the most toxic culprits, you’re already doing an amazing job.

And if you need help pulling it all together? That’s where I come in! My nursery designs take the guesswork out of creating a beautiful, low-toxin space, so you can spend less time researching and more time practicing your swaddle game (seriously, it’s an art form).

Let’s make your baby’s first space as safe, stylish, and stress-free as possible!

P.S. For more information, consider reading this recently published study and research the New Zealand Toxic Gas Study (Trigger Warning: SIDS).