Avoiding Toxins in Baby Products

Did you know that babies are more at risk of exposure to toxins than adults? Their small body mass and sensitive skin makes them more vulnerable and it means we need to be super careful of avoiding toxins in baby products. 

“The World Health Organisation has emphasised that infants and young children are more vulnerable to gene-damaging chemicals than adults.” Dr Peter Dingle

There can be many toxins found in baby products including things like PVC, BPA, BPS, phalates, polyethylene terephthalate, fire retardants and heavy metals. They can be ingested, inhaled or transferred through the skin.

These toxins are linked to a range of health problems, including cancer, endocrine disruption, developmental delays, and reproductive system damage. Scary stuff!

How do you avoid exposing your baby to toxins?

• Do your research before buying! Learn as much as you can about what toxins to avoid. The Chemical Maze books and EWG website are a great place to start.

• Purchase from reputable stores where you know the owners are ethical and sell high quality products. 

• Look beyond the marketing. Just because something claims to be non-toxic, doesn’t mean it’s safe! 

• Choose natural and untreated materials such as wood, bamboo, metal and natural fibres like cotton, wool or felt where you can. These materials are also an environmentally friendly option.

• Avoid anything that smells strongly of chemicals or is heavily scented. 

• Choose organic products as preference. 

• Check that any paints, dyes and treatments used in products are natural and non-toxic.

• When choosing plastic baby products, look for high quality, food grade and BPA free. Silicone, glass and stainless steel products are a better option.

KOALA ECO NATURAL LAUNDRY WASH

• Avoid toxins around the home by choosing natural cleaning and laundry products and ditching anything with artificial fragrance. 

• Only use all natural, safe baby products on baby's skin. Especially look for a good quality, non-toxic sunscreen and non-toxic insect repellent as these can be laden with nasty chemicals! 

• Use filtered water for making up formula and for drinking as they get older. 

• Avoid heating any plastic bottles or containers in the microwave. Glass baby bottles are a great option. Avoid non-stick pans for cooking baby food. 

• Choose safe, non-toxic nursery furniture, fixtures and fittings and off gas for as long as you can before baby comes along.

• Find a non-toxic mattress that meets the Australian Standards. Avoid foam mattresses and anything treated with flame retardants. 

• Look for organic cotton or natural fibre baby clothing and baby linen. Wash everything really well in a non-toxic laundry detergent and dry in the sun and fresh air before the first wear. New clothing can sometimes be coated in formaldehyde. 

• Some disposable nappies are full of toxins and can irritate baby's sensitive skin. Choose reusable cloth nappies or look for eco-friendly, toxin free disposables. Also consider reusable baby wipes as disposable baby wipes are often full of toxins. 

Some of Our Favourite Non-Toxic Baby Brands 

ergoPouch

Certified non toxic and uses GOTS certified organic cotton swaddles and sleeping bags.

Eco Piggies

Beautiful dummies made from 100% natural rubber. 

My Little Gumnut

Eco friendly and non toxic reusable nappies and wipes. 

Aster & Oak

Bobux

Premium quality, non-toxic materials are used in all Bobux shoes.

Tiny Twig

Organic cotton clothing for babies, toddlers and kids.

Everyone wants the absolute best for our babies and to keep them safe and happy, so take a little time to choose wisely, armed with some knowledge. We hope this has given you some useful information to help in avoiding toxins in baby products.

 

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