We all want our kids to be happy and healthy, and creating a safe, nurturing home is part of that journey. But while there’s more information for parents these days, it’s not always easier to pinpoint which steps will make the biggest impact when it comes to minimising their chemical load.
Kids spend so much time sleeping, playing and learning in their bedrooms, so it’s not a part of the home we can neglect. That’s why we’ve done the legwork to help you reduce exposure to harmful chemicals that can influence behaviour, sleep quality, and overall health in children.
With thoughtful choices, you can significantly reduce toxins and create a space that fosters growth and wellbeing. Here’s our go-to first steps for your young family…
Select quality, low tox furniture for your kid's room
When it comes to furnishing your child’s bedroom, quality matters. Cheaper, mass-produced furniture may be tempting, but they often contain harmful chemicals like formaldehyde and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Studies have shown that indoor air quality in children’s bedrooms can significantly impact respiratory health and behaviour, with toxins used in furnishings or bedding a major source of higher chemical loads.
Instead, invest in well-crafted, sustainable pieces that are built to last and free from toxic additives. Whether it’s their first ‘big kid’ timber bed frame, their chest of drawers or toy box, try to look for low tox products made from sturdy, sustainably-grown timbers that are designed to last a lifetime - a wise investment that pays off in both health and durability.
Opt for organic sleep essentials
A child’s sleep environment is critical for their development and overall wellbeing. Sourcing natural cot mattresses and organic bedding designed for kids can make a huge difference when trying to minimise chemical exposure during sleep.
Research indicates that sleep quality is closely linked to the environment your bubs get their shut-eye in - and exposure to chemicals can disturb sleep patterns, according to the National Sleep Foundation. For infants, this means choosing a safe, non-toxic cot, mattress and bedding that has been manufactured without synthetic additives.
The same principle applies to pillows and bedding; by opting for natural latex mattresses and organic bedding, you create a sleep space that supports healthy development and reduces the risk of respiratory irritations.
Products like TNBC’s organic latex mattresses and natural bedding accessories are designed with your child’s health in mind, providing the firm support a young child needs, while using materials such as organic latex and certified organic cotton that don’t off-gas harmful chemicals. They’ve also been safety tested specifically for infants, so you and your little ones can sleep soundly.
Choose low-VOC paints and finishes for cleaner air
The air in your child’s bedroom should be as pure as possible, and one of the biggest culprits of indoor air pollution is paint. Traditional paints can emit VOCs, which are linked to respiratory issues and can even affect cognitive development in children.
To keep the air clean, choose low-VOC or zero-VOC paints when decorating your child’s room. Look for low tox products that have been certified for low emissions - this not only ensures a safer breathing space but also contributes to a more sustainable environment overall. And even with low tox paint, be sure to give your rooms plenty of time to air out after painting, so any off-gassing happens without your precious kids present.
In addition to paint, be mindful of the finishes used on furniture; eco-friendly, water-based sealers and stains are a great way to protect natural wood without compromising air quality. If you’re worried about the air quality in your kid’s room, an air purifier is another fab addition that helps clean any nasties that sneak into the air - or that your kids bring inside with them!
Having house plants around their room can also help purify the air - and make for fun living additions to your kid’s life! A go-to option we recommend for the bedroom is the Snake Plant (Sansevieria), thanks to its quirky aesthetic and the fact it converts carbon dioxide to oxygen at night for easier breathing. They also require very little water, so won’t contribute moisture - and potential mould risks - to your kid’s room.
Embrace minimalism for maximum calm
A cluttered room isn’t just an eyesore - it can also increase stress and negatively impact cognitive function. Research published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology shows that minimalistic environments help reduce stress levels and boost concentration, which is especially important in a child’s developmental years.
Keeping your child’s bedroom minimalistic and organised can lead to improved behavior, better focus, and a more peaceful atmosphere overall. This doesn’t mean the room has to be barren - where’s the fun in that?
Rather, choose a few functional, beautiful pieces that add character without overwhelming the space. Your low tox furniture can even double its purpose by being a nifty storage solution for toys and books, so only the favourites are left out on show.
By pairing minimalism with low tox principles, you create a nurturing space that supports both mental clarity and healthy sleep habits. And those are habits your kids will take with them as they grow - making it a lifelong health hack.
Incorporate natural, low tox accessories and decor
Every accessory in your child’s room contributes to the overall chemical load. Choosing natural, low tox decor items like organic cotton rugs, wooden toys made with low tox paint or finishes, and eco-friendly artwork lets your child express themselves with small, personal touches, while ensuring they aren’t exposed to unnecessary chemicals.
For instance, instead of synthetic carpets that can trap dust and chemicals, choose rugs made from natural fibres like wool or organic cotton. Wooden toys, especially those finished with plant-based oils or non-toxic stains, are safer alternatives that encourage imaginative play without the hidden risks associated with plastic. Even the artwork on the walls can make a difference; consider pieces printed on recycled paper or created with natural dyes.
Incorporating these natural accessories not only lends lightness and joy to your child’s bedroom, but also reinforces a holistic, low tox approach to home living. Every element - from the big pieces like furniture to the smallest decorations - works together to create an environment that’s safe, healthy, and conducive to growth.
Creating a healthier future, one room at a time
Reducing your child’s chemical load isn’t about perfection - it’s about making informed choices that add up to a significant positive impact over time. By selecting quality, low tox furniture, opting for organic sleep essentials, choosing low tox paints and decor, and embracing a less-is-more approach overall, you’re taking proactive steps toward a healthier environment for your kids.
With the research proving a more natural environment helps your family sleep, play and live better, it’s worth every effort to build a low tox sanctuary that supports your child’s development and wellbeing.
