Replies

1. 
   craigmoe | Jun 21, 2006 06:00pm | #1

   ...I forgot to mention - Since this is a cradle as opposed to a crib, it will only be used when my daughter is very young and essentially immobile.  With the mattress and bumper, I doubt she will even come in contact with the finished wooden part of the cradle, but I still want it to be safe.  Thanks.

2. 
   DougF | Jun 21, 2006 07:46pm | #2

   I assume this is for your child: congratulations. 

   Other than the VOC's during application and a short initial cure period, water-based finishes are no more or less safe than other similar finishes.  Once the solvents flash-off, the film that is left on the wood surface is essentially the same as the water-based top coats.

   Other than being less toxic to apply, the primary advantage of the water-based finishes is that they tend to be more clear and yellow less as they age, an important property if you want to maintain the the natural look of light woods such as maple and birch.   

   If you are concerned about ingestion from gumming and teething, consider that shellacs, varnishes and lacquers are all made from natural products as are linseed and tung natural oil.  

   If you intend for the cradle to be an heirloom to be passed through future generations, an oil only finish would not be a practical choice since oil should be refinished on at least a yearly basis and will not protect the wood while it is stored.  

   While you should be concerned with safety issues, I think with some additional research you will find that all of these finishes are approved for children's furniture and toys.