When designing a nursery for your newborn, you want to make the space the safest it can be. There are environmental concerns to think about, some that might shock you.

In Toxic Baby Furniture: The Latest Case for Making Products Safe from the Start, Environment California Research & Policy Center determined that formaldehyde emissions from common baby nursery furnishings significantly contribute to indoor air pollution. Formaldehyde!

As you set out to design your newborn’s room, think about more than just what crib looks cute, or what bedding you fall in love with. Here are some things to consider:

FURNITURE
Unfortunately, a lot of furniture you’ll find in stores is made with medium-density fiberboard (MDF), and MDF, as well as other composite woods, are made with resins and glues that often have high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

•Cribs, Changing Tables and Dressers
Look for furniture made of solid hardwood like maple. Be sure too that it’s finished with non-toxic finishes such as low- or no-VOC stains and sealants. Do an online search for “green” or “eco-friendly baby furniture” and you’ll find a good selection.

•Crib Mattresses
When you think about how much time a newborn spends sleeping, you’ll realize how important an organic crib mattress is. Look for one made of organic cotton with organic wool on the inside. Wool is a natural fire retardant, so this eliminates the need for chemical treatment.

•Window Treatments
It’s pretty easy these days to find organic cotton curtains in cute patterns. Many major retailers have affordable options.

•Bedding
Look for sheets, bumpers and blankets made of organic cotton or wool. Bamboo is becoming a popular choice, just be certain that no chemicals were used in the manufacturing process. Whichever you choose, be sure the bedding is also made using natural dyes. Find a good selection of organic bedding at Etsy or http://www.stylishhome.com/Shop/Bed-Bath/Bedding/.

PAINT
Traditional paints contain chemicals called volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can cause respiratory problems in children. Look for paints labeled “Non-Toxic” and “Zero-VOCs.” They dry quickly, have very low odor and come in lots of colors.

FLOORING
Bare wood floors are best. Wall-to-wall carpet may feel good on bare feet, but most carpeting, padding and the adhesives used to install it contain formaldehyde. If you find that wood is too hard for a crawling baby, go with carpet tiles or rugs made with organic fibers. Cork, bamboo and linoleum can be good choices too. Just be sure that no formaldehyde was used in their production.

KEEP THE AIR MOVING
As a final note, good ventilation is important for healthy indoor air quality, in the nursery and the rest of your home. Baby needs fresh air, but also needs to keep warm, so watch for drafts.

A few simple steps can make a huge difference in your baby’s health.