(This is my September 2009 Virtuous Consumer column, which runs in a number of regional parenting publications in the U.S. and Canada, including About Families, Charlotte Parent and Carolina Parent)

Kids’ rooms are often their sanctuary – to escape a tough day at preschool, retreat from an annoying sibling or retire after a tiring day of learning to use their words instead of their fists.
It’s up to us to make that place as safe and healthy as possible…

1. No vinyl, and that’s final
Many blinds are made of PVC, polyvinyl chloride, which frequently contains lead and hormone-disrupting phthalates. Instead, opt for window coverings made of natural materials – wood, cotton, linen…

2. Remove old carpet
Sure, carpeting is warm and cozy, but carpet fibers harbor dust mites, pesticides, animal dander, bacteria, lead dust, and cleaning product chemicals, all of which children disturb, churn, and inhale as they crawl and play. Synthetic carpeting is the worst offender, adding adhesives, glues, and stain-proofing chemical vapors into the air. If finances allow, remove carpeting and stick with bare floors — add an area rug made of wool, sisal or other natural fibers, if desired. If that’s not feasible, clean the existing carpet with eco-friendly cleaners and vacuum often.

3. Paint it healthy
Finding zero-VOC paints is easier than ever. If you’re still not convinced they’re worth the extra cost, consider this: volatile organic compounds in paints include benzene, formaldehyde, kerosene, ammonia, toluene, and xylene, all known carcinogens and neurotoxins. Exposure can worsen asthma symptoms and cause headaches, nausea, dizziness, and in some cases liver and kidney disease.

4. Non-toxic furnishings
Sure they’re cheap, but pressboard laminated wood and particle wood generally contain formaldehyde. Seek out unfinished solid hardwood painted with zero-VOC paints or finishes. Mennonite or Amish furniture makers often create eco-friendly baby and kids’ furniture, including cribs, high chairs, and playpens. If you must choose particleboard or pressboard (or if it’s a hand-me-down), the Children’s Health and Environmental Coalition recommends that you seal it with a water-based sealant to prevent off-gassing.

5. Add a plant
A two-year NASA study in the late 80s revealed that common houseplants can significantly reduce indoor pollutants, such as benzene, formaldehyde and trichloroethylene. Consider Gerbera daisies, peace lily, bamboo palm and spider plant.

Leslie Garrett is author of The Virtuous Consumer: Your Essential Shopping Guide for a Better, Kinder, Healthier World (and one our kids will thank us for!). Visit her at www.virtuousconsumer.com