Allergy worry - rubberwood in cribs?? (X-listed)

[Anonymous]

I was about to buy a Pali crib made of rubberwood, which is a wood being used with increasing frequency because it's more environmentally-sustainable. Rubberwood trees are typically used for 25 years to produce natural latex (as sap) before being turned into furniture.

This now has me worried. My sister has a latex allergy. Most people with latex allergies react to things like latex gloves, which are clearly different and present the natural latex proteins differently. But I am worried that, if my baby is exposed to rubberwood for years (touching crib, etc.), there is a chance of developing a latex allergy.

With all the weird allergies out there nowadays, autism, and other scientific uncertainties, is it right to be concerned about this relatively new (and unproven) crib material? Or am I overreacting?

[Anonymous]

I don't think you are necessarily overreacting. Many children with Spina Bifida have severe latex allergies and rubber wood is definitely on the list of things they should stay away from. Since you have a family history of latex allergies it may be wise to stay away from rubber wood.