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Green Baby: Simple steps that benefit baby and Mother Nature
More and more new parents are going organic for their little ones. Organic baby products help ensure that babies are not exposed to harmful substances.
These steps can help keep babies healthy and “green”:
1. Use organic baby food. Many pesticides are found in commercial baby food. Certified organic food is produced without these toxic, potentially harmful chemicals. By eliminating the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, organic farming also benefits ecosystems. Look for 100% organic baby food, but keep in mind that making baby food at home using organic ingredients is the best option.
2. Although cotton baby clothes probably don’t retain pesticides, there’s still good reason to use organic baby clothing. Non-organic cotton farms use 25% of all pesticides worldwide; many are known carcinogens (cancer-causing agents). Buying baby clothing made from organic cotton means that fewer chemicals are released into the environment.
3. Stay away from plastics. Despite increasing concerns, some baby items are still made from plastics that contain endocrine disruptors (chemicals that interfere with the body’s hormones). Phthalates and bisphenol-A are endocrine disruptors present in many products. In the United States, some phthalates have been banned from children’s products since 2008, but older products often contain them, and they are found in many household items. Use non-plastic items, like glass bottles and toys made from non-dyed wood, whenever possible.
4. Be careful with bedding. Mattresses and sheets may contain chemicals like fire retardants and anti-wrinkle agents. Even natural fiber bedding might contain chemicals, so look for untreated organic bedding to reduce exposure.
5. Diapers are the third largest type of waste in landfills. Reusable cloth or biodegradable diapers can help reduce the size of these mountains of trash.
By using organic baby products, parents are not only keeping babies healthier, but also keeping the environment healthier for their babies.
Trees and Tots is your resource for raising baby green and healthy.
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