The first order of business for nearly all new parents is scoping out the room that will become the nursery. It’s an exciting task to imagine your new child growing up in such a space — and invariably, the first question asked is, “What color should we paint the walls?”

An even more important decision timing-wise, however, is when you should paint with regards to air quality. Consumer Reports has a great article up at the moment that addresses this issue. Here’s a brief highlight:

Paint the nursery at least two months before your baby arrives. That allows time for fumes to subside before your baby comes home. Use a paint that’s labeled low-VOC or zero VOCs (volatile organic compounds), which are solvents that are released into the air as the paint dries and may be irritating to a baby–and some adults.

With so many options available these days, it’s important to really strive for that low-zero VOC label. Here are some great options for expecting parents:

• Freshaire Choice Paint

• Olympic Premium Paint

• Harmony Interior Paint

• Real Milk Paint Company