A non toxic nursery rug for DONNI. founder, Alyssa Stein

When Alyssa Wasko Stein, founder of DONNI. got in touch with me to order a rug for her daughter's nursery, I was delighted - my daughters and I are huge fans of DONNI, and I've purchased the SIMPLE LINEN PANTS (so great!!) in multiple colors.

And also, we are grateful whenever anyone chooses a non-toxic rug for a nursery.

Alyssa wanted a custom square rug for her nursery, and ordered a few samples in neutral light colors.

She settled on our best selling Seersucker Shag rug in ivory...

I was thrilled that Alyssa included our rug on her substack rly gr8 list:

An organic rug for your child is more than just a soft surface for your little one to crawl, play, and nap on—it’s a healthier, more sustainable choice for your home. Here are some reasons to consider making the switch:

1. Free from Harmful Chemicals

Many conventional rugs contain synthetic materials and chemical treatments, including flame retardants, pesticides, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These chemicals can off-gas into your home, leading to indoor air pollution that may trigger allergies, asthma, and other health issues.

An organic rug for your child is made from natural fibers like organic wool and organic cotton and they avoid the use of harmful dyes and treatments. This means cleaner air and a healthier play space for your child.

2. Hypoallergenic and Gentle on Skin 

Children have delicate skin that can be easily irritated by synthetic materials or chemical residues found in conventional rugs.

Organic rugs, especially those made from untreated wool or cotton, are naturally hypoallergenic , making them a great choice for kids with sensitive skin or allergies.

3. Softer and More Comfortable

Your child’s rug is where they will spend a lot of time playing, crawling, and lounging. Organic rugs, particularly those made from high-quality wool or cotton, tend to be softer and more breathable than synthetic options, providing a cozy and comfortable surface.

4. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable

Choosing an organic rug isn’t just good for your child—it’s good for the planet. Organic materials are grown and harvested without harmful pesticides and chemical fertilizers, reducing the environmental impact . Plus, our organic rugs are GOODWEAVE certified. This means that our rugs are made without child labor and made with ethical labor practices, making them a more responsible purchase.

5. Better Indoor Air Quality

Conventional rugs often release VOCs, which can contribute to poor indoor air quality. Since children spend so much time on the floor—crawling, playing, and even putting toys (and hands) in their mouths—choosing a non-toxic rug is a simple but powerful way to improve the air they breathe.

The textile industry is known to be one of the most polluting industries on the planet. Clothing, upholstered furniture and rugs surround us. They emit Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), polluting the air we breathe every day. Our exposure to these chemicals can lead to many health problems such as asthma, skin rashes, and allergies.