Tips for Living Green With Baby

March Newsletter

Babies are still developing their neurological, respiratory and endocrine systems and are therefore more susceptible to harm from environmental factors than adults. Simple consumer decisions can limit your family’s unnecessary exposure to the worst offenders and can help create a healthier planet for us all. Here are some quick tips to help get started.

Bottle Tips

Avoid polycarbonate bottles and bottles that contain bisphenol-A (BPA)

Safe plastics or glass bottles are best









Toy Tips

Look for wood toys that are solid (not particle board), and have a

non-toxic stain or finish.

Avoid toys made in China unless they have the TIA logo or are a reputable company

Look for green business practices like sustainable woods



Solid construction is a good indicator of quality.

For plastic toys, stick to safer types of plastic that are tested (sold in Europe) and pay special attention to teethers.

Sign up for the Consumer Product Safety Commission list service https://www.cpsc.gov/cpsclist.aspx to stay current on toy and baby product recalls.







Food Tips

Buy Organic food when possible. Know your Produce Report Card when not buying organic. http://www.foodnews.org/walletguide.php

Eat safe seafood http://www.edf.org/page.cfm?tagID=17694

Eat low on the food chain

Filter your water and use caution concerning your container

Avoid fried, processed, or sugary foods

Treat utensils, bowls and plates with the same or more caution than toys

Avoid microwaving food in plastic containers- use glass instead







Bedding Tips

Avoid off-gassing mattresses (formaldehyde- containing

mattresses)



Buy organic bedding when possible and care for it like clothing

When purchasing a new mattress for a child or yourself, try to allow at least 24 hours to air it out (outside or in a garage) before bringing into the house

Use an air purifier in yours and your child’s bedroom-they are the most important rooms to have air purifiers

Have heirloom cribs tested for lead

Search for solid woods, not particleboard





Clothing Tips

Buy organic clothing with natural/color-safe dyes when possible

Always wash clothes before wearing

Use non-toxic, unscented laundry detergent

Look for natural materials inside and out on footwear

Avoid vinyl lined bibs unless BPA free

Avoid jewelry for children







Household Tips

Use natural cleaners such as vinegar and water when possible

Safe hardwood flooring is healthier than carpet

Use an air purifier, not ionizer

Avoid artificial fragrances

Ventilate and/or bake out off-gassing chemicals

Use No or Low VOC paint


Skin Care Tips


Avoid dyeing your hair if pregnant or breastfeeding

Read labels and try to avoid products that include DEA, TEA, formaldehyde, bronopol, dimethyl hydantoin/DMDM, parabens or Imidazoidinyl

Buy organic/natural products or use nothing if possible

Check out the cosmetic/skin care guide www.cosmeticsdatabase.com