Replies

1. 
   Floss | Nov 05, 2005 11:57pm | #1

   Congratulations! You have no idea how much he will change your life for the better. After you are able to catch up on a little sleep after the first few months.

   Most finishes when fully cured are non-toxic. However, shellac is the one you will find recomended the most for baby items.

   J.P.

   http://www.jpkfinefurniture.com
1. 
   SteveSchoene | Nov 06, 2005 01:09am | #3

   The only problem with shellac in this application is that it is very sensitive to ammonia. 

   No finish currently manufactured is toxic when cured. 

1. 
   Floss | Nov 06, 2005 04:45am | #4

   Steve,What is your concern with ammonia?J.P.http://www.jpkfinefurniture.com

1. 
   SteveSchoene | Nov 06, 2005 05:41am | #5

   Well, smell a baby's diaper if it is not quickly changed when wet.  Household cleaning ammonia can pretty quickly strip a shellac finish.  I haven't experimented with babys--I even finished paying for mine's Ivy education--for a long time.   But since lots of other finishes will work just as well, and will hold up to the full range of household cleaners. 

   I would have zero concern about any toxicity from any modern clear finishes.  I'd lean toward traditional resin oil-based varnish, for good working properties and more than enough protection.   Pratt and Lambert 38 is a good one that is light colored, and Behlen's Rock Hard is great if your finish is ok with the darker amber of its phenolic resin.   

2. 
   UnclePaul | Nov 06, 2005 01:08am | #2

   Congrats! I'll second for shellac.

   -Paul

3. 
   kesac | Nov 07, 2005 03:01am | #6

   Virtually all finishes are non toxic when cured.  Those advertized as salad bowl finishes and food prep finishes do not impart any flavor to the products processed on them.