The Science Behind Non Tox Nurseries

Every recommendation we make is rooted in the latest environmental health science and early childhood research. We reviewed over 100 peer-reviewed studies, regulatory standards, and institutional reports to identify the most relevant risks in everyday nursery settings — and the most effective, realistic ways to reduce them.

Why Children Are More Vulnerable

Children are not just small adults. Their physiology makes them more sensitive to environmental toxins:

• They breathe more air per kilogram of body weight, increasing exposure to airborne chemicals.
• They crawl and play on the ground where dust and VOCs accumulate.
• Their skin is more permeable, and their organs are still developing, making them less able to detoxify.

Top Hidden Risks We Target

• Bleach & Quats: Strong disinfectants like bleach and quaternary ammonium compounds are lung irritants and can trigger asthma.
• Indoor Air Quality: Poor ventilation and synthetic furnishings can trap volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are linked to respiratory issues and developmental effects.
• Plastics & Microplastics: From toys to glitter, many plastic-based materials shed microparticles that are ingested or inhaled.
• Tap Water: Old plumbing may still contain lead, and water can carry nitrates or pesticide residues — even when legally within UK limits.

How We Built Our Guidance

We synthesised insights from:

• UK Department for Education: Statutory Frameworks and building standards
• Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health: The Inside Story report on indoor pollution
• Public Health England: Air quality and safe chemical use guidance
• Academic studies from journals like Environmental Health Perspectives, Pediatrics, and The Lancet

Each recommendation is stress-tested for realism: we include only changes that nurseries can implement without specialist equipment or major cost.

Want to Learn More?

We’re working toward publishing our full evidence review and making a parent-friendly database of recommended products and practices. If you’d like to support or collaborate, get in touch!