9 Steps to a Green Nursery (And a Greener House, Too!)

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a -iVillage on Oct 24, 2007 at 10:35AM

Your baby's going to spend a lot of time -- eating, playing, sleeping, breathing -- in her room so you want it to be as safe as possible. Here are ten easy ways to green up your nursery.

See if There Are Lead Paint Issues

Problem: Many homes built before 1978 contain lead paint, which can cause a range of health issues, including behavioral problems, seizures, and even death. Children under age six are most at risk. Lead-based paint can be found on window frames, walls, old cribs and in antique or imported toys and jewelry.

Solution: Use a test kit (found in home improvement stores) to identify places and household objects where lead may be lurking. Leave lead-based paint undisturbed if it's in good condition (paint over it if you can); and do not sand or burn off paint that may contain lead. If you're planning to paint the nursery, use low- or zero-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints with natural pigments such as clay. These new paints are durable, cost-effective and less harmful to human and environmental health. (For more info on lead, visit the Environmental Protection Agency.)