Is it safe to buy antiques with suspected lead paint for nursery decor?

What's actually in it

Painted antiques, old dressers, rocking chairs, picture frames, toy chests, and window trim can contain lead-based paint. The risk is not only paint chips. As paint ages, it can crack, chalk, and create lead dust.

A nursery is the wrong place to take that chance. Babies touch surfaces, crawl on floors, and put hands and toys in their mouths.

What the research says

The CDC childhood lead prevention guidance says there are no safe levels of lead in blood. It also says children can be exposed where they live, learn, and play, including from chipping or peeling paint in homes or buildings built before 1978.

The EPA lead source guide says homes built before 1978 are more likely to have lead-based paint, and that deteriorating paint can create lead dust.

Do not put suspected lead-painted antiques in a nursery. Test painted vintage pieces before bringing them into a child's room. If a piece tests positive, use a certified lead professional for encapsulation or removal. Do not sand it yourself. For nursery decor and toys, choose newer solid wood items without old paint.