Expectant mothers do everything in their power to prep their home for a new baby, including removing safety hazards and harmful chemicals. But what if the nursery, itself, is a health hazard? You might not be familiar with the term “off-gassing,” but it’s the odor associated with many of the non-metal goods we buy. It’s the furniture equivalent of a new-car smell.

Furniture and building materials can release chemicals into the air through evaporation. These products can off-gas for days, weeks and months. The results are magnified in a room full of new products and materials.

No other room in the house is as likely to be furnished all at once as a nursery! The biggest off-gassing culprits? Particle-board furniture, crib mattresses, carpet, upholstery that’s been treated to be stain-resistant and new fabrics in general. All of these items are normal purchases for expectant parents, so here are some tips for how to stay healthy.

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