How to Create a Non-Toxic Nursery

By now you’ve probably heard of Branch Basics, right? If not, then you can familiarize yourself with the best cleaning supplies ever and their founder here and here.

Yes, they have an amazing product to help you achieve a non-toxic lifestyle, but they also have an Instagram page that’s absolutely packed with value. Recently Lauryn saw this post on her feed that’s all about a creating a non-toxic nursery. She instantly knew she had to share it with you so today, we’re breaking down exactly that, giving full credit to Branch Basics for doing the work, of course.

So if you’re pregnant, planning to be pregnant or in the midst of setting up a nursery in your home, here’s everything you need to know.

How to Create a Non-Toxic Nursery

If you’re expecting a baby (especially your first!), you’re likely putting a lot of thought into designing the perfect nursery. From choosing a crib and bedding to picking out paint and furniture, every decision matters—especially when it comes to your baby’s health.

But did you know that many traditional baby products contain hidden toxins like formaldehyde, flame retardants, VOCs, and phthalates? These chemicals impact your little one’s delicate, developing body.

Babies breathe in twice as many toxins as adults and the first few years of life make a big impact on their development and long-term immunity.

Here are some of our go-to items for creating a safe, beautiful nursery:

Paint

Even low/no VOC paints contain toxic ingredients like fungicides, mildewcides and biocides. Use truly-safe paint from @ecospaints (they color match any brand!)

Crib

Ideally choose a solid-wood crib and avoid ones with MDF. Also, metal cribs can attract EMFs, so we prefer wood. Ikea and @modernnursery have great ones. Specifically this one which is available on Amazon too.

Crib Mattress

Opt for organic, toxin-free brands like Pure Baby and Child, Avocado mattress, Naturepedic and Holy Lamb Organics.

Bedding  + Blankets

Choose 100% organic cotton from places like Pure Baby and Child, Aden and Anais, Willaby and Gray Heron Home.

@austinairpurifier to ensure clean air!

Environment

Use an air purifier to ensure clean air. Branch Basics recommends @austinairpurifier. As you know Lauryn loves Jaspr.

Changing Pad

Ditch the toxins and go for a Naturepedic one or Holy Lamb Organics or Oeuf.

Rug/Playmat

Stick with natural fibers! We love @lorenacanalsrugs, @pillobebe & Lovevery play mats.

Rocking Chair

Modern Nursery has safer options, and we love the ones by @montedesign.

Lighting

Try salt lamps from Amazon and red light bulbs from Bon Charge. Check out Lauryn’s favorite red light devices here.

Diapering

Primally Pure baby balm and powder (use code SKINNY) are amazing and we use Honest dry wipes. For diapers we like Coterie, My Kudos and cloth diapers from Modern Nursery.

Decor

Try play gyms and clean decor from @modernnursery, Baby Björn (like the bouncer) and get things like the name signs from artists on Etsy. Plants are also wonderful for cleaning the air in a room.

Wearing

Modern Nursery has a ton of non-toxic choices for baby-wearing.

You can shop all the recommended items here.

HOT TIP from Branch Basics: If you can, let new furniture and items off-gas outside or in a well-ventilated space before bringing them into your nursery.

And if you’re in doubt, ask questions about materials or certifications. It’s always worth the extra effort.

And if you’re overwhelmed by all this non-toxic stuff, just start slow. Lauryn started by switching out cleaning supplies then gradually moved on to things that affect her own life the most. If you want to learn more, check out these resources.

+ Branch Basics founder on The HIM & HER Show (here and here)

+ Darin Olien on The HIM & HER Show.

+ Lauryn’s non-toxic product list.

+ Safer, healthier cookware.

+ Why you need non-toxic candles.

+ Our top non-toxic bandage brands.

x, The Skinny Confidential team.

+ The red light therapy devices you need to know about.

++ What to put in your bathwater for pH balance.