Why your nursery could be the most toxic room in the house

When preparing a nursery, most parents focus on comfort, style, and safety. We carefully choose the cot, paint the walls, add a soft rug, and pick out adorable décor. But what many do not realise is that these very choices may be creating one of the most toxic rooms in the entire home.

From brand-new furniture and synthetic rugs to freshly painted walls and off-gassing mattresses, nurseries are often filled with items that emit harmful chemicals known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These substances can significantly affect indoor air quality, and research shows they pose particular risks to infants and young children.

Let us explore what makes the modern nursery potentially dangerous, what the science says, and how you can take practical steps to make it safer for your baby.

What Are VOCs, and Why Are They Harmful?

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are gases emitted from certain solids or liquids, including many household materials and products. These can include formaldehyde, toluene, benzene, acetone, and many others.

VOCs are emitted by:

• Paints and varnishes

• Plywood and pressed wood furniture

• Synthetic carpets and rugs

• Mattresses (particularly those made from polyurethane foam)

• Cleaning products, air fresheners, and glues

• Plastics, especially new plastic toys and storage items

Off-gassing refers to the process of VOCs being released into the air. This process is most potent when products are new, but it can continue for months or even years. Research from Harvard and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) shows that indoor VOC levels are typically 2–5 times higher than outdoors, and can spike up to 1,000 times higher after introducing new materials.

Why Infants Are More Vulnerable

Infants are far more susceptible to indoor toxins than adults:

• They breathe more frequently, taking in more air per body weight.

• They sleep longer, often up to 16 hours a day, in close contact with potentially toxic surfaces like mattresses.

• Their bodies and brains are still developing, making them more sensitive to environmental toxins.

A 2014 University of Texas study found that crib mattresses made from synthetic materials emit significantly higher levels of VOCs than adult mattresses, and infants sleeping on them are directly exposed through inhalation.

Common VOC Sources in the Nursery

Paint and Wall Finishes

Conventional paints can emit formaldehyde, benzene, and other VOCs. These emissions may persist long after the paint has dried. Always allow for off-gassing time before moving a baby into a freshly painted room.

Safer paint choices include:

• Tint Paints – Australian-made, water-based low-VOC paint.

• UltraAir from Bunnings – A low-VOC paint option designed for better indoor air quality.

• Limewash Paints – Natural mineral-based paints with no harmful chemicals and a breathable matte finish.

Mattresses

Many conventional crib mattresses are made with polyurethane foam and synthetic fabrics, often treated with flame retardants. These materials can release a range of VOCs.

Healthier mattress choices include:

• GOTS-certified organic cotton

• Natural latex (untreated)

• GREENGUARD Gold certified brands

Rugs and Flooring

Synthetic rugs made from nylon or polyester often emit VOCs from both the fibres and the backing. Many are also treated with stain-resistant coatings, which may contain PFAS, known as "forever chemicals" linked to cancer and hormone disruption.

Choose rugs made from:

• Wool (undyed or low-dye)

• Organic cotton

• Jute or seagrass

Furniture

Flat-pack furniture and budget nursery pieces often use particleboard or MDF, which can emit formaldehyde-based gases from glues and adhesives.

Opt for:

• Solid wood furniture with natural finishes

• Low-emission certified products (e.g. FSC-certified or CARB2 compliant)

Health Risks Linked to VOC Exposure

Long-term exposure to VOCs is associated with a range of serious health issues, especially in vulnerable populations like infants:

• Respiratory issues such as wheezing and asthma

• Irritation of eyes, nose, and throat

• Neurological symptoms like headaches and cognitive delays

• Endocrine disruption

• Immune system dysregulation

• Developmental disorders

Specific cancers linked to VOC exposure include:

• Leukaemia (linked to benzene)

• Nasopharyngeal cancer (linked to formaldehyde)

• Lung cancer (from prolonged exposure to indoor air pollution)

• Kidney and liver cancers (based on animal studies involving chemicals like trichloroethylene)

The World Health Organization has flagged indoor air pollution as one of the leading environmental threats to children's health.

Other ways to Create a Healthier Nursery

Ventilation Complete any painting, flooring, or major furniture installation weeks before baby arrives. Open windows daily and use fans to circulate air.

Air Purifiers Use a high-efficiency air purifier with both a HEPA filter (for fine particles) and an activated carbon filter (to remove gases and VOCs).

For more on choosing the best air purifiers, visit our full guide HERE

Avoid Synthetic Fragrances - Many scented candles, room sprays, and even baby products contain phthalates and synthetic fragrances, which are known endocrine disruptors. Use essential oils safe for children or avoid scents altogether.

Consider Plants (Safely) - Some house

plants like spider plants or peace lilies can help clean the air. However, ensure they are out of reach and are non-toxic to children and pets.

Your baby's nursery should be a safe place for rest and growth, not a source of hidden toxins. While the modern home is full of conveniences, many of the materials and products we use come at a cost to indoor air quality and health. Thankfully, with knowledge and a few simple changes, you can create a safe, supportive environment that nurtures your child’s well-being from day one.

Please Note: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider with concerns regarding environmental health and your child.