Paint Fright (What? I really like white walls)   

 

Are you a "white wimp" or a "neutral nellie"? Are you too frightened of paint colors to even paint a single room? You are not alone. Many people go to the paint store with such good intentions and come home with several chips. Then it hits - color paralysis. They tape those chips up on the wall hoping somehow magically speak and say, "I am the one." Since that never happens, the walls don't get painted.

 

Now I am not suggesting that an all-white or neutral palette is inappropriate for all interiors. All white or neutral interiors can be very beautiful when done well. White or neutral walls may be appropriate when artwork is to take center stage. They may also be the best if someone suffers from Chromophobia or a fear of colors.

 

But if you really want to use a colorful pallet then fight the fear and paralysis!

 

Here are three ideas to help you color your world.

1. Open your closet doors and find your favorite outfits. Your favorite clothes are usually colors that make you feel good. If it makes you feel good when you wear it then you should consider putting those colors on the wall.
2. Check out model homes in your area. Most model homes have a variety of color pallets ranging from warm to cool. If you walk into a model and it makes you feel all warm and cozy, this could be your pallet. If it makes you cringe at least you know what not to pick.
3. Pull out the crayon box. Without thinking too much, let your eyes drift to your favorite colors. Pull those out of the box and take them to the paint store.

 

 

There are a variety of other items that will come in contact with your baby in the nursery. These items include bedding, clothing, diapers, bottles, baby wipes, toys, books, teethers, shampoo and baby wash. All of these items may have chemicals, and these chemicals may have immediate or future effects on your baby's health.

 

If a product has any plastic components, look for products that are free from Phthalates and Bisphenol-A (BPA). Baby bottles and feeding kits such as those from Think Baby are free of Phthalates, BPA, PVC and Lead.

 

Baby wipes can contain chlorine, petro-chemicals and alcohol. Save money and time by making your own baby wipes. Shampoos are also another product that can be chemical laden. It was recently reported that two chemicals unsafe for babies are still in shampoo made by Johnson & Johnson. Check out the Environmental Working Group site for shampoo and other baby product ratings.  

 

Disposable diapers are arguably one of the most plentiful items in landfills today. For comprehensive information on cloth diapers or disposable diapers check out The Daily Green.

 

When possible choose organic mattresses, bedding and clothing such as those from Simply Chickie or Absolutely Organic Baby. Typical baby mattresses may contain polyurethane foam with chemicals such as formaldehyde, benzene, toluene, and brominated fire retardants.

 

Carefully research each product in order to create the least toxic environment for your newborn. Reducing toxic exposure gives your baby a great start in life.