Creating an eco-friendly nursery is not only better for the planet, but also better for your little one’s health. Here are our top tips for what to look out for and how to make sure it’s a space your mini will love…
GO ORGANIC
Made without nasty chemicals and produced using less water, organic fabrics are better for the environment and the health of the people that make them. They are also safer for your little one and their delicate skin. Natural fibres, such as cotton and linen, are the most environmentally-friendly option as they will bio-degrade more easily. Look out for items that carry the OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 label. Products carrying this stringent certification are made without azo dyes and harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde. When decorating your nursery, one of the most important things to consider is bedding, as synthetic fibres can irrite little ones’ skin and disrupt their sleep. Make sure you choose a mattress made using natural and organic fibres, as well as sheets, blankets and quilts.
BUY WELL AND MAKE IT LAST
It’s always better for the environment to invest in quality items that will last. This will prevent unnecessary waste (and be more cost-effective!) in the long run. For example, look out for a cot that can be converted into a toddler and then a junior bed. Also worth putting some thought into is the decorating scheme. A muted colour palette will have longer lasting appeal than sickly-sweet or garish tones. We love the collection from Avery Row. The sustainable brand has a beautiful range of nursery items that work just as well for babies as older children. For example, items such as their best-selling seagrass changing basket can be used as toy storage later, and their beautiful nature-inspired prints won’t date as quickly as your little one grows.
CHECK OUT THE SUPPLY CHAIN BEFORE YOU BUY
Shop with brands that are transparent about their supply chain. Many smaller brands have a personal relationship with the people who make their products and will be able to tell you about their working conditions and pay. This is not only important for fair trade, but also for knowing how the products are made and making sure what you are buying is sustainable as possible.
REUSE AND RECYCLE
When investing in furniture, look out for pieces that are made with sustainable materials such as FSC-certified wood or rattan and minimise plastic where possible. Even better, go for reclaimed or recycled items. If you’re creative, you could have a go at upcycling too. If you don’t have a friend or family member to pass on nursery essentials to you, make sure you invest in pieces that you’ll be able to hand down to the next little one! This is all about making sure you buy quality items that will last.
SHOP SMALL AND INDEPENDENT
Search out smaller, independent brands that put a focus on sustainability. We love to support mama-founded brands, such as Avery Row, too! These brands often have more interesting, unique items to help you personalise your little one’s space. Look out for toys that can be used as decoration once your mini has finished playing with them. Choose artist-drawn prints and illustrations that have special meaning. And select handmade pieces such as woven baskets to add interest. These are items that you’ll want to keep for years to come.
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