We all want the best for our children, starting from when they are a newborn. From baby gear to clothes, it takes a lot of preparation to choose the right products that are safe and healthy. From cribs that are up to safety standards, to toys and food that do not contain chemicals, choosing things can be overwhelming. This can be daunting especially as a new parent, and stressful when you just want the best for your baby!

Organic products are a good way to start your parenting journey. In addition to being safer for your baby, organic products are better for the environment.

Here are some tips for choosing organic products that are safe for your baby.

Organic Formula & Foods

One of the most important things to consider when looking for a natural and organic route, is choosing the best formula and food. By choosing organic, you reduce your baby’s exposure to pesticide residues in foods, as well as avoiding GMOs. Many organic food brands go above and beyond their organic labeling, providing an exceptionally healthy product.

When choosing a formula, read labels and do your research. In addition to choosing an organic formula, check to make sure that it is free from additives such as refined processed sugar, artificial nutrients, synthetic preservatives, etc. You can find a line of formulas with clean ingredients from Holle formula. This way you can know that you are giving your infant the best option.

When your baby is old enough to make the change to solid foods, look for the same quality ingredients as you would with formula, avoiding additives such as corn syrup. Organic foods are usually more nutrient dense, and organic baby food purees are often packaged in better quality containers such as glass or BPA-free plastic.

Organic Clothing

Babies have very sensitive skin, and it is much more permeable than adults, so babies absorb things more rapidly through their skin. Organic cotton baby clothes are a great choice for your baby.  This way you can avoid chemicals on your baby’s clothing, as well as the use of any synthetic materials. Polyester and other synthetic products are derived from petroleum and treated with chemicals. In addition, cotton is soft and breathable, creating a healthier environment for your baby’s skin.

Diapers

Consider cloth diapering with organic fabrics, or use disposables that are organic. By getting rid of traditional disposable diapers, you can rest assured knowing that your baby will not be exposed to things like dioxins, phthalates, dyes, latex, GMOs, parabens, VOCs, heavy metals, and more. Organic natural fabrics are more gentle on baby’s skin versus synthetic materials.

Organic Beds & Bedding

Bedding, especially mattresses, can contain many chemicals. Mattresses are notorious for off gassing of chemicals, known as VOC’s (Volatile Organic Compounds), such as Polyurethane Foams, fire retardant treatments.  Most mattresses also contain PVCs and latex, which are known irritants and chemicals.

You can also find organic furniture that uses sustainable woods. Many cribs and other furniture have chemical coatings, so look for something that is non-toxic, with zero-VOC glues, paint, and varnishes.

Organic Toys & Gear

Consider going a more natural with things like fabric or wooden toys, which reduces exposure to plastics or other chemicals. Non-toxic, eco-friendly toys are a great way to go, and should be free of Bisphenols BPA + BPS, Formaldehyde, PVC, VOCs, lead or other heavy metals, and of course pesticides. For example, go with a felted toy food set, instead of plastic. Babies tend to put everything in their mouths, so it is good to avoid anything that may contain chemicals.