Think 'green' with your nursery

1. Choose low-toxic, low VOC paints and keep the room well ventilated when you’re painting. Resene recommends using a low VOC waterbourne enamel for most furniture, including cots which your little one may munch down on. It has the durability you need for furniture, as well as keeping baby safe. If you choose a neutral palate for your walls, your paintwork will last much longer than anything overtly "baby". 

2. Potted plants such as bamboo, peace lilies and spider plants are a welcome way to bring the outdoors in. Spider plants are especially good as they absorb common air pollutants. Opening windows daily will also get the air circulating. 

3. There’s conflicting evidence about whether people with allergies should have carpet. The Consumers’ Institute says while, “Many experts advise people with allergies to install hard floor coverings with small washable rugs, there’s a growing body of research which suggests that carpets actually trap dust and allergens rather than allow them to recirculate in the air.” It suggests vacuuming floors and soft furnishings at least once a week with a cleaner that has a filtration system such as HEPA, S-class or replaceable micro-filters. 

4. From the much more sustainably produced wooden toys to energy-efficient light bulbs and fabrics and blankets made organically, think "green" when investing in the furniture and accessories your baby will grow up with. 

5. Take a holistic approach and include family pictures to remind your little one of his heritage, something from nature to keep him in touch with his world and something to inspire him to dream big dreams.