Want to make your home and environment healthier and safer for you and your children? Follow these green tips from Healthy Child Healthy World and you’re on the right path.

	Keys make lousy pacifiers. Most brass keys contain lead in their alloys (lead in brass makes it more pliable). Traces of lead can pass from hand to mouth. And make sure you wash your hands thoroughly after handling keys or digging in your purse if your keys are buried at the bottom, especially if you are pregnant.
	The importance of choosing a natural fiber mattress, like cotton or wool, over a conventional mattress treated with flam-retardants, is incredibly important for your health and your children’s health. Most crib mattresses are composed of many petroleum-based chemicals like vinyl (polyvinyl chloride or PVC), phthalates, polyurethane foam, harsh chemical fire retardants, and other additives.
	Conventional furniture polishes may contain petroleum distillates. Instead of using them, try cleaning and polishing varnished wood with a mild vegetable or Castile oil soap. Dr. Bronner’s has an outstanding product you can find at your local markets. For painted wood, mix 1 teaspoon of washing soda in a gallon of hot water and rinse with clear water. For unvarnished wood, try almond, walnut or olive oil. Work in and wipe off any excess.
	Prevention is the best solution to pest infestations. Approximately 90% of all insect infestations migrate into the home from the outside. Block pest entrances by caulking holes, using door sweeps, and keeping window screens in good repair. Pests love moisture and your food, so keep things dry and store food safely. These are all integrated pest management (IPM) techniques.