Did you know that infants have more vulnerable respiratory tracts? Their immune system is weaker, and their brains are developing rapidly, making them highly sensitive to indoor air quality. So before you start building your newborn’s nursery or before baby arrives, think about all the harmful pollutants that might be found in unexpected places within the nursery and in your home. Not sure what they are? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Let’s explore some hidden dangers that might be present in your newborn’s nursery and ensure a safe and healthy environment for the arrival of your newborn baby.

The Hidden Danger-Formaldehyde

According to The World Health Organisation…
4.3 million people a year die from the exposure to indoor air pollutants such as VOCs.

Decorating a nursery is one of the most joyful experiences for expecting parents. However, amidst the thrill of creating a beautiful nursery, the potential health impacts of certain materials and products can be easily overlooked. One of them is formaldehyde. Formaldehyde is one of the most common VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) found in homes. It is a colourless gas that is often present in products used to furnish and decorate a nursery. Formaldehyde can be emitted from various sources such as:

• Paints and Varnishes
• Furniture and Cabinetry
• Carpets and Upholstery
• Cleaning Products

This is worrying because exposure to formaldehyde can cause respiratory issues and irritation, especially in newborns who are more susceptible due to their developing systems. Additionally, their immune systems are not fully matured, which means they are not strong enough to fight off the harmful effects of these pollutants.

TIP: Babies and children are extra sensitive to formaldehyde that usually exists in indoor environments.

Symptoms of formaldehyde exposure in infants can include coughing, wheezing, skin irritation, and eye irritation. Prolonged exposure can lead to more severe health problems such as asthma and other respiratory illnesses, hence it’s important to ensure the air quality in your baby’s nursery is as clean as possible.

Steps to Mitigate Risks

Parents can take several proactive steps to minimise their baby’s exposure to formaldehyde and other VOCs:

1. Choose an Anti-Formaldehyde Paint; Nippon Paint’s Odour-Less AirCare is an anti-formaldehyde interior emulsion that contains Active Carbon Technology, which will continuously absorb harmful formaldehyde from the air and convert into water vapour, resulting in clean fresh air. Besides having ultra-low VOCs and odour, this environmentally friendly paint has superior washability properties, anti-bacterial properties and does not contain lead and mercury. It is recommended to be used in eco-sensitive commercial and residential areas such as hospitals, schools, hotels and homes.
2. Select Solid Wood Furniture; When possible, choose furniture made from solid wood instead of pressed wood products, which are often bonded with formaldehyde-based resins.
3. Ensure Proper Ventilation; Keep the nursery well-ventilated by opening windows and using fans to circulate fresh air. This helps to disperse any pollutants that may be present.
4. Use Air Purifiers; Consider investing in an air purifier with a HEPA filter to remove airborne pollutants from the nursery.
5. Opt for Non-Toxic Cleaning Products; Use cleaning products that are free from harmful chemicals to maintain a clean and safe environment.

So remember, creating a beautiful nursery may be an exciting part of preparing for a new baby, but it’s essential to prioritise their health by considering the impact of indoor air quality. A safe and healthy nursery should not only provide comfort, it should also support your baby’s overall well-being and development, ensuring a positive start in life.

TIP: Elevate your space and safeguard your wellbeing with Spot-less Plus Series.

This premium paint boasts a velvety smooth sheen finish, adding a touch of timeless sophistication to any room. Beyond its timeless beauty, Spot-less Plus Series offers superior protection:

• Anti-Stain Technology: Repels everyday spills and stains, including coffee, wine, and ink
• Silver Ion Technology: Proven to combat various viruses and bacteria, promoting a cleaner and healthier environment.
• Anti-Formaldehyde with AirGuard Technology: Continuously absorbs harmful free formaldehyde from the air, converting it into water vapour for a safer and healthier home.
• Colour Care Technology: Allow for a richer and longer-lasting colour appearance.

For more information about indoor air pollution and how you can achieve cleaner air, visit www.nipponpaint.com.my/cleanair .