Room Refresh: Simple Changes for a Healthier Home – The Children’s Bedroom Edition
In the latest of our Room Refresh series, we show you how to create a nurturing space for development with healthy, sustainable swaps for young bodies and growing minds.
WORDS Elissa Rose
Children’s bedrooms are spaces for rest, play and growth, but some of the everyday materials found in them can quietly affect air quality, comfort and overall wellbeing. Because children are still developing, they’re more vulnerable to toxins, making the materials and design of their rooms especially important. In this article WLLW explores practical, health-focused swaps that support a healthier, calmer and more supportive space for children. Here are simple ways to improve your child’s environment without compromising comfort or creativity.
 Bedroom designed by Studio Peake. Photo courtesy of Alexander James |
 Bedroom refresh by Sims Hilditch. Photo courtesy of Simon Brown |
Choose Natural Bedding Over Synthetic Materials
Many children’s sheets and duvets are made from polyester or poly-cotton blends treated with chemical dyes, wrinkle-resistant coatings or flame retardants. These treatments can off-gas Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), which have been shown to irritate the skin and interfere with sleep, especially for kids with allergies or eczema.
Healthier Change:
Look for organic cotton or linen bedding, which is breathable, gentle on the skin, and free from harmful additives. These natural fibers regulate temperature more effectively and are often produced with safer dyes. GOTS-certified bedding ensures high environmental and health standards throughout the manufacturing process.
Learn more about off-gassing: Clearing the Air: What is Off-gassing?
Opt for a Low-Toxicity Mattress
Children often spend more time in bed than adults, so the materials in their mattresses matter. Conventional mattresses often contain chemical-laden polyurethane foam to increase viscosity, flame retardants and adhesives that release VOCs for years. These substances have been linked to endocrine disruption, asthma and other respiratory concerns.
Healthier Change:
Choose a child’s mattress made from certified organic cotton, natural latex or wool. These materials are durable, hypoallergenic and naturally flame-resistant without chemical additives. Look for certifications like GOLS, GOTS and MADE SAFE to confirm the mattress meets strict health criteria.
Our guide to healthy mattress selection: How to...Choose a Healthy Mattress
Naturalmat’s Cotbed Mattress. Photo courtesy of Naturalmat
Avoid Plastic Mattress Protectors and Waterproof Layers
While waterproofing is practical, many plastic protectors contain PVC, phthalates or vinyl that can off-gas and degrade over time. Phthalates can impact children’s development and the functioning of vital organs. These materials are particularly concerning for infants and toddlers, who may spend extended periods lying directly on the surface.
Healthier Change:
Choose a waterproof protector made from organic cotton or natural wool treated with polyurethane derived from natural cornstarch, which repels moisture without synthetic plastic layers. These options are breathable, washable and free from harsh chemicals.
Discover more about the impact of phthalates: The Six Chemical Classes: Bisphenol A (BPA) and Phthalates
Rethink Soft Furnishings and Toys
Stuffed animals, rugs and curtains can accumulate dust, trap allergens and, if synthetic, release microplastics into the environment. Many plastic toys also contain PVC or Bisphenol A, which may interfere with hormone development and are especially concerning when toys go in the mouth.
Healthier Change:
Choose soft furnishings made from natural fibers like wool or organic cotton. Look for washable items that can be cleaned regularly, and vacuum rugs with a HEPA filter vacuum to reduce dust and dander. Swap plastic toys for wooden, fabric or silicone alternatives that are safer and more sustainable.
The WLLW Shop has a range of healthy children’s products, find them here: Gifts for Kids
 Children’s room by Anna Haines Design. Photo courtesy of Anna Haines |
 Children’s bedroom designed by Yard Architects. Photo courtesy of Ellen Christina Hancock |
Use Low- or No-VOC Paints and Finishes
Wall paint, furniture coatings and even wallpaper adhesives can emit VOCs long after drying, which can negatively affect indoor air quality and cause irritation or behavioral issues in sensitive children.
Healthier Change:
Choose low or zero VOC paint or mineral-based alternatives, and use wood finishes that are low VOC as well, while avoiding heavily fragranced products. Ensure good ventilation during painting and allow the room to air out for several days before use. Brands that use mineral or plant-based pigments are a safer option for nurseries and bedrooms.
Understand why air quality is so important: WLLW Round-Up: Why Indoor Air Quality Matters More Than Ever
Improve Air Quality and Allergen Control
Children’s immune systems are still developing, making them more sensitive to airborne pollutants, allergens and mold. Poor ventilation, dust and off-gassing from furniture can all contribute to issues like congestion, sleep disturbance and skin irritation.
Healthier Change:
Keep windows open regularly for fresh air, and use an air purifier with a HEPA filter to reduce dust, pollen and VOCs. Incorporate plants that are non-toxic to children (such as spider plants or Boston ferns) to help purify the air naturally. Wash bedding weekly at 140°F to eliminate dust mites.
Learn more about how to find and tackle mold: Mold Matters: Health, Prevention and Remediation, Part 1
Child’s room in the Water Mill Residence by Mari-Christine Design. Photo courtesy of Joshua McHugh
Limit Light Exposure at Night
Night lights, baby monitors and electronics can create low-level electromagnetic fields (EMFs), while blue or bright light before bed can interfere with melatonin production, making it harder for kids to fall and stay asleep.
Healthier Change:
Use warm-toned, low-intensity night lights only when necessary, and keep monitors away from the bed. Turn off tablets, TVs and phones at least an hour before bedtime, and use blackout curtains to block out external light.
Light can affect our circadian rhythms, understand how: Illuminating Health: The Impact of Light in Our Homes
Create Simple, Zoned Spaces for Calm and Focus
Overstimulating colors, cluttered shelves and mixed-use spaces can make it difficult for children to wind down or focus during independent play or reading. Visual noise, just like actual noise, can interfere with a child’s sense of calm.
Healthier Change:
Choose calming, natural colors for walls and textiles. Create defined zones for sleep, play and reading using rugs, soft lighting or low shelving. Incorporate Montessori-inspired principles by keeping items within easy reach and rotating toys to prevent children from becoming overwhelmed.
Learn about how organized spaces benefit your health: Unlocking the Power of Organization for Mental Health
Obasan Organic Rubber Toddler Pillow. Photo courtesy of Obasan
 Olli Ella’s Rattan Mushroom Basket. Photo courtesy of Olli Ella |
 Raduga Grëz handcrafted wooden Winged Lion. Photo courtesy of Raduga Grëz |
Kalon Studios Caravan Divan Toddler Bed. Photo courtesy of Kalon Studios
Feature Image: A Florida home designed by The Habitat Collective. Photo courtesy of Jeanne Canto
Photography: Alexander James, Simon Brown, Naturalmat, Anna Haines, Ellen Christina Hancock, Joshua McHugh, Obasan, Olli Ella, Raduga Grëz, Kalon Studios
