Your baby will spend many hours sleeping, and at times will need the room to be dark and peaceful during the day. At other times, you’ll want to let outdoor sounds, light and air into the nursery.
Fabric curtains may be treated with formaldehyde to make them wrinkle-free and some curtains may have been treated with flame retardants. Roller shades, miniblinds, and some blackout curtains can be made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
Natural fabrics do break down in UV light but are a less-toxic option. Never place a crib or other item (swing, etc) that babies occupy near a window with cords for blinds or curtains. They are strangulation hazards. Make sure to follow manufacturer's guidelines for keeping cords out of reach of babies, toddlers, and pets. Keep heat sources away from window treatments.
For window treatments choose natural fabrics. Cotton, linen, wood and silk all work, but are relatively sheer. Hemp and bamboo shades help to block out the light if baby is sensitive to light and it interferes with sleep. Safer versions include naturally finished wood shutters, aluminum Venetian blinds, and bamboo roll down blinds. The safest option is to make your own black out curtains with pesticide-free hemp fabric. Make sure to choose materials listed as "flame retardant-free."
Learn more about the hidden hazards by reviewing the glossary or take a deep dive by reading Safer Products for Babies and Toddlers: Resources and Recommendations for Retailers.
