Preparing your baby’s room is one of the most exciting parts of getting ready for parenthood. These 7 eco-friendly baby room ideas for new parents will help you create a calming, beautiful space that also protects the planet. From choosing sustainable furniture to using toxin-free paints and organic fabrics, every eco choice you make is a gift to your baby and the Earth. With these 7 eco-friendly baby room ideas for new parents, creating a green nursery is easier—and more stylish—than ever.
If it’s time to decorate your nursery, how about opting for something that’s beneficial for your baby and the environment?
Did you know that the air indoors is up to three to five times more polluted than outside air, owing to harmful chemicals and other materials? And when you consider a baby’s immunity is still developing, and the amount of time they spend indoors, perhaps there’s a gentler way of equipping and cleaning our homes that’s better for our health – and the environment.
With the rise of “eco-awareness” and the consciousness of plastic consumption, green is becoming the new black, and we predict that this care of the environment will continue to move into our homes, and particularly baby nurseries.
If you’re looking to create a greener and less toxic space for you and your baby, just start, says Dr Romy Levy, a Johannesburg mother of five, and a homeopath, who along with her husband Avin, created SoPure, a range of chemical-free home and body products. Romy is committed to gentler cleaning and living spaces, and advises people not to be overwhelmed when making eco-friendly changes.
“If you’re starting out, try cutting out some chemical-laden products such as bleach and laundry detergent. Buying things like wooden toys, chemical-free paint and furniture that can be repurposed are significant and doable.”
“We think that small steps that are sustainable are more meaningful than trying to many changes that you can’t stick to,” says Romy. “If you’re starting out, try cutting out some chemical-laden products such as bleach and laundry detergent. Buying things like wooden toys, chemical-free paint and furniture that can be repurposed are significant and doable.”
Romy’s 7 tips for setting up an eco-friendly nursery:
- Repurpose furniture. You might have an item of furniture gathering dust that with a lick of paint could make a good addition to your nursery. Or you might have a single sofa that could be used as a feeding chair, and it just needs re-upholstering (remember that lots of comfortable chairs can be used for feeding). You’ll save money this way, and there’ll be a “history” to your baby’s room.
- Paint safely. Lots of paints contain harmful chemicals, the worst of which is volatile organic compounds (VOC), which has been linked to cancer. Before you paint the walls or furniture, check what’s in it and opt for a kinder variety with low- or zero VOCs.
- Natural cot mattresses. Most of our time goes towards choosing a beautiful cot but the mattress is just as important. Ensure that your mattress doesn’t have plastic, fire retardants, vinyl, foam or other harmful substances. When choosing a mattress, look for one made with wool, cotton or other natural fibres.
- Check the furniture. While most of us want the Pinterest-perfect nursery, we should be cautious about what’s in some of that pretty furniture. Formaldehyde is often found in cheaper furniture materials such as plywood, and it can cause allergic reactions, coughing, and eye, skin and nose irritations. Try to use solid wood such as maple, oak and pine, which doesn’t contain any formaldehyde.
- Limit harsh cleaning products. Chemical-based cleaning products, including dishwashing liquid, washing powder and most fabric softeners can be harmful, and release toxins, putting us at risk of illness, allergies and disease. We’re not saying don’t clean, but rather use natural or plant-based cleaning products, which work just as well as traditional cleaners, but are far safer.
- Go bare floored. While they might seem warm and cosy, carpets harbour allergens and dust mites, and synthetic carpets contain harmful toxins. If you can, choose a wooden, cork or natural linoleum floor. If you want to incorporate a rug, ensure it’s made from sustainable materials, is undyed, and easy to clean.
- Buy better toys. Check that the toys you buy don’t contain harmful lead or BPA, which is a common plastic additive, as babies tend to put all toys in their mouth, A great option is wooden toys – they’re sustainable, durable and long-lasting, and timeless. Also look for toys that are battery-free, made from recycled plastic and wood, or organic cotton.
SoPure Laboratories is a Health and Wellness company that passionately researches, develops and manufactures high-performance disinfection, allergy prevention and cleaning products using the latest cutting-edge technology. Their products are pure enough for you to keep your whole family protected from germs and mosquitoes.
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FAQ’s on Eco-Friendly Baby Room Ideas for New Parents
What does it mean to have an eco-friendly baby room?
An eco-friendly baby room is designed using sustainable, non-toxic, and environmentally conscious materials and practices. This includes choosing furniture made from responsibly sourced wood, organic textiles, and natural, low-VOC paints to create a safe and healthy environment for your baby.
Why should I choose organic materials for my baby’s room?
Organic materials, such as cotton or bamboo, are free from harmful pesticides and chemicals. Using these materials in bedding, clothing, and curtains helps reduce your baby’s exposure to toxins and supports better indoor air quality.
Are eco-friendly baby products available in South Africa?
Yes, South Africa has a growing market for eco-conscious products. Many local retailers and online stores now stock organic bedding, sustainable cots, biodegradable nappies, and natural cleaning products specifically tailored for babies.
How can I make my baby’s room more energy efficient?
You can install energy-efficient LED lighting, make use of natural daylight where possible, and ensure good insulation. Using a ceiling fan instead of an air conditioner can also reduce electricity usage while keeping the room cool.
What type of paint should I use in an eco-friendly nursery?
Look for low-VOC or zero-VOC paints, which release fewer toxic chemicals into the air. These are better for your baby’s health and reduce indoor air pollution.
Are second-hand baby items safe and eco-friendly?
Yes, using gently used or second-hand items like cots, dressers, or baby clothes reduces waste and is budget-friendly. Just make sure any item meets current safety standards and is properly sanitised.
How do I reduce plastic in my baby’s nursery?
Opt for wooden or fabric toys instead of plastic ones, and choose storage bins made from natural fibres like cotton or jute. Avoid unnecessary plastic packaging by shopping from eco-conscious local brands.
Can indoor plants improve the air quality in my baby’s room?
Yes, certain indoor plants such as peace lilies or spider plants can help purify the air. However, ensure they are non-toxic and placed out of reach of little hands.
Is cloth nappying a good option for eco-conscious parents?
Cloth nappies reduce landfill waste and can save money in the long run. Many South African brands now offer modern cloth nappies that are easy to use, absorbent, and come in fun designs.
What is the most important thing to consider when creating an eco-friendly nursery?
Focus on creating a safe, non-toxic space that supports both your baby’s well-being and the environment. This includes being mindful of what you bring into the room, choosing quality over quantity, and opting for sustainable, durable products.
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