What types of wallpaper are safe for my child's room?

Dear Clara,
Thank you for reaching out and congratulations on your pregnancy! As a parent myself, I completely understand your worries about creating a safe and healthy environment for your little one. When it comes to decorating their room, choosing the right wallpaper is not just about picking a cute design; health and safety must come first. It's important to be cautious as some wallpapers, particularly those from unreliable sources, can contain harmful pollutants.

Wallpapers from dubious retailers can harbour dangerous chemicals that are set off into the air, potentially causing health issues such as allergies, respiratory problems, and other serious conditions. Ensuring that the wallpaper for your child's room is free from these harmful pollutants is essential for creating a safe and healthy environment. Fortunately, there are many beautiful and safe wallpaper options available.

Which criteria are important when choosing a wallpaper for my child’s room?

When choosing wallpaper for children's rooms, there are a few key points to consider which will ensure that it’s as safe and healthy as it is stylish. Let's explore what really matters when selecting a non-toxic wallpaper so you can provide the perfect space for your little one to grow and thrive.

Make sure it’s free from dangerous pollutants

Unfortunately, not all wallpapers are created equal. Some inexpensive, mass-produced options may contain harmful pollutants such as phthalates, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and biocides. A wallpaper for your child’s room should be completely free from these harmful substances. Unlike with food products, wallpaper manufacturers are not required to disclose the substances their products contain, so it’s important to verify that your chosen wall décor complies with international safety standards and certifications.

Choose the right materials

The instinctive choice is to opt for wallpaper made from natural, organic fibres such as grass, bamboo, sisal, hemp, jute, and cork. While these are excellent options, design choices can be somewhat limited. Alternatively, you can choose more commonly used materials like non-woven and paper-based models, provided they are certified to be free of the harmful pollutants mentioned earlier.

Pick a breathable model

With small children, the odd mess is inevitable. While it might be tempting to choose a highly washable, vinyl-coated wallpaper for easy cleaning, breathability must be your priority. Breathable wallpapers allow air and moisture to pass through, preventing the buildup of mould and mildew. This is essential for maintaining good indoor air quality and reducing the risk of respiratory issues. By maintaining balanced humidity levels (and thus making the room feel fresher and more pleasant), breathable wallpapers also contribute to a more comfortable living space

Pay attention to safety standards and certificates

Take the time to familiarise yourself with all the information provided in the product page of the wallpaper you are interested in. Make sure it adheres to recognised safety standards and certifications.

Choose a reputable retailer

Be wary of buying wallpaper from unknown, cheap retailers, especially those shipping from countries that do not adhere to the necessary safety standards. It's best to stick to reputable retailers who are willing to provide detailed information about their products' safety certifications and material compositions.

Consider environmentally sound models

An excellent solution is to go for a model produced with sustainable or recycled raw materials, where all chemicals harmful to water or the habitat of insects and wild animals (e.g. pesticides) are excluded from the production chain. A great example is the Veruso Lino model, made exclusively from plant fibres and fully compostable.

Take cleanability into account

For a child's room, it's wise to choose washable wallpaper that can withstand frequent cleaning. This will help you to easily clean it and effectively remove dust, thus reducing one of the most common allergens.

Which chemicals should NOT be present in your wallpaper?

Cheap, mass-produced wallpapers sourced from unspecified producers can contain a variety of substances dangerous to the health of your child. Here is what you should look for:

Volatile Organic Compounds (also known as VOCs)

VOCs from plastic coatings and dyes are harmful chemicals that can be released into the atmosphere from cheap wallpapers with synthetic materials or coatings. Due to their developing immune and respiratory systems, children are particularly vulnerable to them.

Synthetic fillers and binders

Used to improve the plasticity and workability of wallpapers, these toxic substances can be released into the air over time. When inhaled, these chemicals can lead to respiratory problems, allergic reactions, and other health issues.

PVC

PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, can release toxic chemicals such as dioxins and furans over time.

Solvents and formaldehyde

Volatile solvents can emit strong odours and can cause dizziness, nausea, and breathing issues. Formaldehyde, found in many adhesive products, can cause various health problems.

Plastic components or plasticisers

Plastic components and low-volatile plasticisers like phthalates found in cheap vinyl wallpaper can negatively affect the hormonal balance.

Organohalogen and organostannic compounds

These compounds, which include chlorine, bromine and fluorine, are often used in flame retardants. They can accumulate in the body over time, potentially causing endocrine disruption, reproductive and developmental issues, and increased cancer risks.

Which safety standards and certifications should I look for when choosing wallpaper for my child's room?

When it comes to your baby’s safety, reassuring words are not enough. That’s why checking wallpaper certificates and standards is super important as they provide solid proof that the wallpaper is safe and non-toxic. Unlike vague or potentially misleading descriptions, actual certifications ensure that the wallpaper has been rigorously tested for harmful chemicals, sustainability, and quality. Here are the most common certifications to look for:

Greenguard

Products with this certification are tested for over 10,000 chemicals and meet strict health standards.

OEKO-TEX Standard 100

Ensures that the wallpaper is free from harmful levels of more than 100 substances known to be detrimental to human health.

The Blue Angel Eco Label

This German certification indicates that the product has been tested for environmental friendliness and health safety.

RAL

Ensures that wallpapers meet high safety and quality standards, including low emissions and the absence of harmful substances.

Natureplus

This certification focuses on sustainability and health safety, ensuring that products are made from environmentally friendly materials and do not pose any health risks.

Phthalate-Free

Wallpapers labelled as phthalate-free do not contain these harmful chemicals, making them safer for children's rooms.

Eco Institute

Products with this certification have been tested for pollutants and emissions, ensuring they meet strict environmental and health safety standards.

EN 13501-1 Fire Rating

A European standard for fire safety; it ensures that the wallpaper has been tested for fire resistance.

FSC Certification

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification guarantees that the paper used comes from responsibly managed forests.

Which wallpaper should I choose to prevent allergies and sensitivities for my baby?

Since babies' immune systems are still developing, they are particularly susceptible to environmental allergens. I recommend choosing hypoallergenic and non-toxic wallpapers specifically designed to minimise allergens. Hypoallergenic wallpapers made from natural materials like cellulose, linen, or cotton are all excellent choices as they are breathable and less likely to harbour allergens. Given the growing concern about dust mite allergies, opt for a washable model, as these are easy to clean and help maintain a dust-free environment.

Which wallpapering paste should I choose to install wallpaper in my child’s room?

Here’s something that even the most health-conscious parents tend to overlook when searching for the right wallpaper for their child’s room: the wallpapering paste! Many conventional wallpaper pastes can also contain some of the harmful chemicals mentioned above. Stay clear of artificial resins and preservatives and choose glue made of pure methyl cellulose, available in powder form.

I hope my answer helps you feel more confident when it comes to picking the right wallpaper to create a safe and beautiful nursery for your baby. Keep us posted!

All the best,
Isabel