Covering Ground
There is lots of talk about whether carpet is a healthy option when covering the floor in your nursery because of the chemicals used not only in the carpet, but also in the backing and the adhesive. Although there are plenty of other choices, because of its warmth and ease, carpet is traditionally the most popular preference for bedrooms.

Here's a list of 8 things parents should know when they're choosing carpet and want to keep it healthy for a baby.

1. When buying carpet, look for the Green Label Plus logo. Many of the carpet companies jumped onto the ecological bandwagon in a big way in 1992 with their 'Green Label' and 'Green Label Plus' programs that test the carpet, the cushion and the adhesives for off gassing. These programs ensure homeowners that the carpet they are buying passes the most stringent criteria for low chemical emissions.

2. Even if your carpet passes the most stringent criteria for low chemical emissions, have it installed as far in advance as possible. Install it in the warm weather so that you can open your windows. This will allow some of the fumes to dissipate, especially if you use a fan.

3. Although it sounds like a good idea at first, steer clear of 'Stain Resistant' carpet since the chemical that prohibits staining is known to cause cancer.

4. Ask your salesperson if the carpet you're interested in is made from recycled product and if it's also recyclable when you're ready to replace it.

5. Avoid carpet backing with polypropylene, tyrene-butadiene rubber and latex, which use strong chemical bonding agents.

6. Avoid a long loose pile carpet, which will provide a home for food, moisture and asthma inducing dust mites.

7. What falls into the carpet stays in the carpet until it's vacuumed. Choosing the right vacuum can be every bit as important. An old or poorly made vacuum will blow dust and dirt back into the room and can create respiratory problems. Invest in a new vacuum with a HEPA filter that will trap dust that settles in the carpet.

8. Consider carpet made of natural wool (make sure it's organic and has not been given a moth treatment), which is fire resistant, obviously made from a renewable resource, durable, biodegradable and provides a wonderful indoor environment.

Carpet is not only a style choice; it can also be a good health choice for your baby. New carpeting can contain toxic chemicals and because of the large amount of carpet that goes into a room, it's important to know what you're buying.
You can ensure that your carpet meets indoor air quality standards as set by the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) www.carpet-rug.com

Learn The 5 Things You Absolutely Must Know Before Choosing Your Child's Nursery Furniture. Deborah Fine has taken her 34 years of experience designing baby's rooms and her life long concern for the environment and turned it into a new report called, "The Non-Toxic Nursery." In this report, Ms. Fine reveals exactly how to get the chemicals out of your baby's nursery. http://thenontoxicnursery.com