Question from Jessica Domich
Hi Debra,
I am pregnant with my first child and have been reading your blog for the ideas on non-toxic room paint, crib, organic mattress, clothing and anything I could find to minimize toxic exposure to the child.
I need to purchase a wardrobe for the nursery. I am looking at wardrobes from Ikea but I am not sure what would be the best choice and least toxic. My price range is $300 and I am looking from the following options: www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/categories/departments/bedroom/19053/
The nursery colors are white and pink so I would prefer the white wardrobe. 🙂
Also, are there any white cribs from Ikea that you would recommend? I have been looking at some on their website but I am not sure if the white acrylic paint will release toxins into my baby’s crib mattress and if the white acrylic paint is toxic on baby’s crib if kept outside for a while to air out.
These are their crib options: www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/categories/departments/childrens_ikea/18755/
Debra’s Answer
One thing I love about IKEA is that you can get a lot of stylish furniture made from unfinished wood.
Here in the Q&A I can’t look at the materials list for every wardrobe on this page (if you want that, I can do it as a paid consultation) . Just spot checking, eliminate any made from particleboard.
I see that HURDAL is made from solid wood, but it’s $499. You may be able to get a solid wood wardrobe elsewhere for less.
If you want white, I would get solid wood and paint it yourself with Ecos Paints. Most white furniture is particleboard under the paint.
My favorite crib is the Sniglar, solid wood, unfinished, and only $69. Again, if you want white, paint it yourself.
If you prefer to buy painted furniture, you can offgas the paint by placing the furniture in a heated room. Once paint completely dries, there are no toxic fumes.
