Eco-Friendly Baby Tips

March 2nd, 2010 BY nparkington | 1 Comment

We all seem to be more aware of our environment than in the past. New parents have a much greater knowledge base to draw from as they make decisions about how to live a green life for themselves and their children. More products are available to choose from that are organic, chemical-free, natural, etc. Here are some general tips for healthier pregnancy and parenting:

While pregnant, avoid or limit exposure to toxic household chemicals and foods containing pesticides and mercury. Opt for greener cleaning products and organic fruits and veggies.

Select glass baby bottles with medical grade silicone nipples. Ensure they don’t contain BPA, phthalates, or nitrosamines. See image above from Wee-Go.

Store childrens’ food and drink in reusable containers made of #2, #4, or #5 plastics (or glass if you feel comfortable with that).

Buy baby and kid clothing made of organic cotton or simply layer non-organic clothing on top of an organic cotton under-layer. See example above from Inhabitots.

Select unbleached disposable diapers or use organic cotton cloth diapers. To make a case for using cotton diapers, here are some facts:

- Over 92% of disposable diapers end up in landfills and it’s estimated to take over 500 years to break down a single diaper.

- 27.4 billion diapers are used each year

- 20 times more raw material is used to make disposable diapers then cloth.

Use products free of preservatives, harsh detergents, perfumes, talc, and mineral oil on your infant.

Avoid the sun all-together for young babies and put sunscreen on older children daily… and yourself!

Shop around for eco-friendly baby gear such as strollers, car seats, and carriers. There are very few options however you should invest in very durable pieces to keep and use them for as long as possible. Donate your gear when you’re finished.For example, send pieces to Babyearth, RENEW Recycling Program, 21 Cypress Blvd Ste. 1120, Round Rock, TX 78665.

Choose natural mattresses not treated with fire retardants and cover mattresses (conventional or natural) with pads and covers made from natural wool or organic cotton. Be mindful when selecting your baby crib too. A great example from bednest is shown in the image above.

Avoid toxic paints and furniture finishes in your nursery. Select low or no VOC products when possible.

Use organic cotton bed-sheets and receiving blankets with low or no impact dyes. Wash in gentle non-toxic fragrance-free detergents.

Go for homemade crafts and solid wood toys instead of the plastic and painted toys.

(Sources: Green Guide, SDDiaperService / Images: Bednest, Wee-Go, Inhabitots)

N.Parkington

nparkington | My Bio & Articles

Natalie lives in San Diego, California and enjoys a healthy organic vegetarian lifestyle (with chocolate as the exception...). She does what she can for the environment and is constantly making adjustments to become greener in all...