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Toys, like evvvvverything else, can introduce toxins into your home, to say nothing of the environmental impact of producing and disposing of ALL THAT plastic.

I’m certainly guilty of buying my fair share of cheap plastic toys, but I am always trying to do better. After researching and writing this non-toxic toy guide, I am especially motivated to buy only sustainable toys.

This non-toxic toy guide helps you minimize the risks to both your kids and the planet by investing in higher-quality, non-toxic toys.

3 Tips for Choosing Safer, Non-Toxic Toys

If you want a truly toxin-free toy box, you will need to:

1. Avoid painted wooden toys, unless they’re made in the United States or Europe or by brands you’ve vetted. Lead paint continues to show up in Chinese-made toys. Lead has been banned from toys produced in the United States, so you can be reasonably sure that toys that are made in America will be lead-free.
2. Avoid Chinese toys. Unfortunately, lead paint isn’t the only thing to fear in Chinese toys. Many Chinese-imported toys have also been found to be contaminated with brominated fire retardants (including notorious PBDEs). Although these chemicals are banned for most uses in Europe and Canada, and no longer produced in the U.S., a legal loophole allows finished toys that contain these toxins to be imported and sold here. Since more than 85% of toys are made in China, they are not easy to avoid! Being made in China doesn’t necessarily make a product Bad Stuff; in some cases, a company will be based in Europe but may have a devoted manufacturing facilities located in China (or elsewhere in Asia). In general, when companies go to the trouble to use organic cotton, real wood, water-based paints, etc., they are also the companies that maintain close control over their production facilities–wherever they are located.
3. Avoid toys made of vinyl (PVC). Phthalates are typically added to PVC toys as a softening agent. You can find phthalate-free PVC, which is safer than conventional PVC, but I would still avoid it where you can. One study by HealthyStuff.org found that 78% of toys tested contained PVC in one or more components, so again, avoiding this entirely is easier said than done.

Here’s a quick non-toxic toys cheat sheet:

The Worst Stuff in Toys

Some types of toys are consistently found to more toxic than others in study after study. Be especially cautious when purchasing:

• Sidewalk chalk, which has been found to be contaminated with asbestos. Here is safe chalk.
• Play jewelry, which may contain lead. Here’s safer toy jewelry.
• Rubber duckies, which usually made of PVC and contain phthalates. Here’s a safe duck.
• Plastic play food, which can contain high levels of chlorine). Here’s some safe play food.

Earth-Friendly, Non-Toxic Toys

For the purposes of this guide, I am not going to designate any toys that are entirely made of plastic as “Good Stuff.”

That said, there are some plastics that are likely completely inert and therefore don’t present a health risk. See “The Okay Stuff” below for a bunch of safe plastic toys.

From an environmental perspective, I would love to see us all support those companies who make high-quality wooden toys that can be passed down rather than thrown away.

The Good Stuff: Truly Non-Toxic Toys

Ailefo Organic Modeling Clay

This natural dough from Denmark lasts forever, and is made without perfumes, dyes, or parabens.

$26.00 – $33.00Buy Now

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Apple Park

Apple Park makes sweet plush toys made with 100% certified organic cotton and OEKO-TEX 100 toxin-free dyes.

Shop Apple Park

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Bannor

Bannor offers range of non-toxic toys, all handmade in Iowa, with wood from local lumberyards. Their paints are non-VOC.

Shop Bannor

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Begin Again

Begin Again makes great bath toys of natural rubber. They also make a range of safe puzzles.

$3.99Buy Now

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Camden Rose

I love Camden’s amazing line of wooden toys and teethers. Camden Rose uses a beeswax/jojoba finish or a food-grade mineral oil on all of their toys.

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Dena

We love this European brand’s line of platinum silicone toys–and they are safe for the youngest kids because they are entirely non-toxic should they end up in a mouth.

Shop Dena

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Eco-Kids

 

Eco-Kids makes great art supplies, such as crayons and modeling dough. Their materials include natural wax, mineral pigments, and 100% pure beeswax.

$18.99Buy Now

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Grimm’s

This German brand also goes by Spiel & Holz, and is admittedly expensive, but their wooden toys are absolutely stunning. The non-toxic stains (rather than paints) means that you don’t have to worry about these toys chipping.

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Haba

Haba produces most of their wooden toys in Germany, and they use nontoxic paints and finishes. Haba’s timber comes from sustainable forests from Germany, Finland, and Russia. Their paints are water-based and free of all solvents.

When Haba uses plastic, it’s polypropylene or ABS, both of which are among the safest plastics out there. I’ve assembled a collection of my kids’ favorite Haba toys here, all of which are produced in Europe.

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Hevea

Hevea makes an awesome line of natural rubber balls, bath toys, and teethers (along with pacifiers), all of which have been a big hit with my kids, and none of which contain PVC.

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Holtztiger

Made in Germany of hard maple and beechwood, Holztiger wooden animals are colored with water-based paint and finished with a water-based sealants.

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Kleynimals

I had two key-obsessed babies, and I was freaked out when I learned that not only are your set of house keys filthy, but they also often contain lead. Kleynimals 100% stainless steel toy keys are made in the USA.

You can see the whole lineup of stainless steel toys here.

$39.99 $34.99Buy Now

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Ostheimer

My favorite wooden animals are those by Ostheimer, mostly because of simply how pretty they are. They are hand-carved in Germany, and use only non-toxic paints and natural oils for finishing.

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Maple Landmark

 

This company’s Schoolhouse Naturals line is free of any kind of finish. Note that the other toys made by Maple Landmark do have petroleum-based lacquer and urethane finishes and would not be considered Good Stuff.

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Uncle Goose

This brand makes my very favorite wooden letter blocks, which are handcrafted in the USA out of basswood and printed with nontoxic ink.

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Under the Nile

UTN is my go-to source for organic cotton toys and teethers (as well as adorable clothing!) because they use 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton. I am obsessed with their line of Waldorf dolls in particular.

$59.00Buy Now

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Natural Earth Paint

This is a great brand of safe, natural paints and face paints. Ingredients include simply organic corn starch and natural mineral pigments.

Shop Natural Earth Paint

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Petit Collage

Petit Collage makes adorable paper dolls, magnet sets, wooden pull toys, stickers, coloring books, and other non-toxic toys. Everything is made without PVC, and using recycled paper and vegetable inks.

$13.99Buy Now

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PlanToys

Plan makes all of their non-toxic toys in a sustainable factory in Thailand, where they maintain control and employ solar power.

PlanToys wooden toys are made from natural rubberwood trees that no longer produce latex. To keep the wood pure, no fertilizer is added to the soil for at least three years prior to harvesting the wood, and the wood is strengthened via a chemical-free kiln-drying process.

Plan’s printed materials are made of recycled paper and soy ink, and assembled with zero-formaldehyde-free glue. Plan’s dyes are free of heavy metals.

Shop Plan Toys

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Tender Leaf Toys

Like Plan, Tender Leaf Toys are made of rubberwood and painted with water-based paints. I rank them slightly below Plan because they are less transparent and overtly eco-friendly, although I can’t find anything to suggest they contain toxins.

Shop Tender Leaf

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Tegu Magnetic Blocksbe

Tegu blocks are made of solid wood and coated with water-based paints with water-based pigments.

My kids have tons of Tegu blocks and they don’t emit any odor, and hold up well after years of play.

$37.00Buy Now

 

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The Okay Stuff

Battat/B. Toys

A lot of you asked about this brand, and while their toys are made in China, they are all free of lead, phthalates, and BPA. This company is also committed to environmental sustainability in their packaging.

 

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Bruder

Bruder vehicles, which are made in Germany, are constructed of ABS plastic, which is non-leaching and safe.

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Green Toys

Green toys are among the best plastic toys you can find. They are made in America of recycled polyethylene, which is a non-leaching and safe kind of plastic.

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Hape

While Hape does make their toys in China, they maintain control of their factory, and most of the materials (paints, etc.) are sourced in Germany. The wood they use comes from forests that Employ sustainable forestry practices and are FSC certified. Their paints are solvent-free.

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Ikea 

The Swedish giant has phased out PVC from all of their toys, but don’t offer a lot of info on the paints or glues used. Many of Ikea’s toys are made in China, although some are made in Sweden. The plastics in Ikea’s toys conform to EU laws, but Ikea does use some synthetic rubber and some lower-formaldehyde particle board.

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KidKraft

Many of you have asked me about the play kitchens made by KidKraft. These kitchens are made mostly of wood, but they do employ some particle board (though it’s CARB II compliant), and some plastic.

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Lamaze

This company didn’t get back to us with any certifications to back this claim up, but they assured us that none of their plush toys are treated with flame retardants.

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Lovevery

This newer brand uses solid wood, non-toxic water-based paints, and organic cotton for almost all of its toys. I like their play kits.

Shop Lovevery

 

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Legos

Legos are made of ABS plastic, which is a safe, non-leaching type. This is great news for moms like me, who often feel like we are drowning in a sea of Legos! Unfortunately, Legos are not recyclable, so I still don’t consider this an eco-friendly toy.

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Magna-Tiles

Magna-Tiles are one of my boys’ favorite toys, and while they are manufactured in China, they do not contain any BPA, phthalates, PVC, or other toxic materials. The clear Magna-Tiles are made of non-leaching ABS plastic.

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Spielstabil

This line is under the Haba umbrella, and produces high-quality, nontoxic, plastic toys. All Spielstabil items are made in Germany and are all free of phthalates, BPA, lead and PVC. Spielstabil products are made of food-grade ABS plastic and anything that needs to be joined together is done so using hygenic ultrasonic welding rather than glue. I am tempted to call these Good Stuff, but am sticking with my rule that nothing plastic gets categorized as such!

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Steiff

While not organic or certified as non-toxic, I think Steiff is the best brand for more realistic stuffed animals. Steiff animals are made from higher-quality materials, like mohair, alpaca, cashmere, 100% cotton, and wool felt.

Browse Steiff Stuffed Animals

The Bad Stuff

The Sneaky Stuff

Don’t see your favorite toys in any of the Good, Okay, Bad, or Sneaky categories? Comment below and let us know!

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The post Safe, Non-Toxic Toy Guide appeared first on Gimme the Good Stuff.

1. Natural Egg Dye. Made from fruits, herbs, and veggies, this kit includes powders to make 7 different colors. $9.95
2. Carrot Footie. With functional snaps from neck to toe, this footie is made of soft organic Egyptian combed cotton that is gentle on baby’s skin and the environment. $29
3. Carrot Cap. Choose from striped or solid to match the footie. $18.
4. Wooden Vegetable Garden The perfect spring gift. Little ones can farm carrots and other veggies. $25
5. Lamb Lovey. These soft and eco-friendly lamb toys are stuffed with 100% organic Egyptian cotton scraps. $12.50
6. Carrot Mancala Game. My kids love Mancala, and this is a wooden, Easter-themed version perfect for kids as young as three. $25
7. Chicken Family Puzzle. Made from eco-friendly rubber wood with child-safe stains, this puzzle is perfect for kids as young as two. $12
8. Wooden Egg Craft Kit. Sustainably hand-crafted in the U.S., these eggs come with six colors of natural paint and a bamboo brush. $16.95
9. Pastel Bamboo Toothbrush Set. Includes four naturally-colored bamboo toothbrushes with BPA-free bristles. $11.98
10. Dinosaur Eggs Beeswax Crayons. Six vividly-colored beeswax crayons in a post consumer recycled egg carton are included in this set. $15.99
11. Animal Shaped Snack Containers. These snack containers and safe and very popular. Comes in 4 adorable animal shapes. $8.99
12. Pastel Magnet Blocks. A 14-piece introductory building set of natural wooden magnetic blocks. $37
13. Tear Free Bubble Bath. This natural formula rinses easily and leaves no irritating residue, making it gentle enough for even a newborn’s delicate skin. $10.99
14. Real Rubber Ducky. These pastel ducks don’t contain phthalates like most bath toys. $14.99
15. Pastel Rainbow Toy. Made with platinum silicone, this toy works as a teether, stacking toy, puzzle, and more. $49.99
16. Organic Carrot Teether. Our store’s best-selling teether is extra perfect this time of year. $12.99

You can also save a little money and order these Easter gift bundles to fill your baskets.

For Kids

For Baby

Our Best-Sellers from Last Year:

Dye & Grass-Growing Kit

Skincare with Bunnies

Organic Cotton Asparagus

Snuggly Bunny

Stay sane,

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The post Natural Easter Basket Ideas appeared first on Gimme the Good Stuff.

Still, one of Gimme’s goals for 2021 is to be kinder to the environment. For those of you who’ve shopped with us, you probably already notice that we sometimes reuse shipping materials. You may notice that your order arrives in a box that bears the logo of one of our vendors, or it might be packed with shredded white paper from the local community college, or with packing peanuts we’ve accumulated. We encourage you to re-use or recycle all the shipping materials you receive from us, and we hope that even if your box isn’t the most beautiful, it still feels like a luxury to receive it.

We know that there are ways we can do better this year–in our own homes and in the products we offer in our store. Ten of my favorite environmentally friendly products are pictured above, and here’s why I love them:

1) Cora Ball. Every time we do laundry, our clothes shed tiny, unseen microfibers (including plastic), which go down the drains of our washing machines and into our waterways. This brilliant ball is simply tossed in the washing machine to prevent microfiber from breaking off our cloths and collecting our microfibers into fuzz we can see and dispose of in the right way.

2) Bamboo bandages. The adhesive sheet of a standard band-aid is made from a type of plastic, often toxic PVC, none of which breaks down. Patch bandages are made with soft, organic bamboo fiber and gauze. Bamboo is a soft and breathable option for wound coverings that is naturally antimicrobial and the most sustainable option available.

3) Meliora plastic-free cleaning products. We’ve been offering a wide selection of non-toxic cleaning products for years, but we are increasingly looking to bring you brands that cut the plastic and the weight of shipping heavy bottles that are, after-all, mostly water. Meliora does just that. Their all-purpose cleaning tabs are a one-stop solution for cleaning the hard surfaces in your home in the most eco-friendly way possible. Hang on to any plastic spray bottle in your home, and then simply add one tablet to an empty bottle, add warm water, and gently shake until the tablet dissolves. This means no single-use plastic bottles, and no shipping of heavy bottles of cleaner to and from us or wherever else you shop!

4) Stainless steel ice cube tray. Regular plastic ice cube trays are not recyclable, so the next time you need to replace one, go old school! This tray is perfect for freezing small portions of food — chopped herbs, crushed garlic, pesto, baby food, and of course ice cubes. We also love to freeze leftover coffee that we accidentally let go cold for the perfect iced coffee.

5) Stasher bags. I have a drawer full of these, and haven’t bought a plastic baggie in years! These are eco-friendly, environmentally safe, and long-lasting. I use them to pack lunches, store leftovers, pack toiletries when traveling, and more.

6) Straight razor. Around 2 billion plastic razors are disposed of each year, and they all end up in landfills. This eco-friendly straight razor has a bamboo handle and a recyclable metal razor. My husband and my dad each got one for Christmas.

7) Cotton bowl covers. I use these daily to cover leftovers that I don’t want to transfer to a separate container. They are perfect for making bread or covering a salad to bring to a potluck, and I’ve heard they also work wonderfully as as a kombucha cover. The large size fits over a casserole dish. Washing them is super easy, and you’ll seriously never miss plastic cling wrap again.

8) Stainless steel cup. This unbreakable 8-ounce tumbler cup will last forever, and is an excellent alternative to disposable plastic cups for a picnic, a party, camping, or for children in their classrooms.

9) Stainless steel lunch box. These bento-style boxes mean you never have to use Tupperware containers or Ziploc bags again. Unlike many other lunch style boxes, the go2 container seals off each compartment COMPLETELY, making them perfect to send with kids to school.

10) Zip Top snack packs. This style of silicone bags is designed to fit in little hands–the zippers are large enough to be handled by even young children. They come in cute animal shapes, and are another step your family can take to reduce your use of single use plastics in packed lunches.

11) E-cloths. These cloths will get you off of paper towels for good, AND you don’t even need to use cleaner with them. One cloth cleans and has a scrubbing pocket to remove stuck-on residues and the other finishes surfaces to a brilliant streak-free finish–all using just water.

12) Food Huggers. I’ve been in love with this brand since I discovered their avocado savers a few years ago. Silicone Food Huggers do double duty, in my opinion–you don’t use plastic to save your food AND you throw away less food because they really work to keep it fresh. I also use them to seal open cans, jars, and glasses.

Comment below to tell me other ways you’re going more eco-friendly in 2021!

Stay sane,

P.S. A few other small ways to be more kinder to the Earth: swap body washes for bar soaps, try a menstrual cup instead of tampons, wash dishes with solid soap, throw dryer balls in with your laundry to save energy, switch to refillable laundry concentrate, use a toothbrush that has a replaceable head, try cloth diapering–even if only part time, bring your own water bottle/coffee cup, and invest in wooden toys.

Tandi’s laundry soap is made from local tallow and herbs, and the glass jar is refillable. Because it’s concentrated, a little goes a long way! It is our best selling product for a reason!

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The post 12 Little Ways You Can Help Save the Earth appeared first on Gimme the Good Stuff.

1. Safest stroller / 2. Pocket bib / 3. Rash protection / 4. Non-toxic car seat / 5. Better cloth diapers / 6. Plastic-free breast milk storage / 7. Silicone spoons / 8. Nursery air filter

Pulling together this list of  all the non-toxic baby registry items a conscious parent could possible want was fun! Mostly, I’m struck by how much has changed since my last pregnancy–then again, it WAS 8 years ago! It almost makes me want to have another baby–almost.

To make sure I wasn’t missing any great new inventions (turns out, I totally was), I called upon my friend Stefanie Koenig, who is a conscious mom to Marlowe, 5, and Greta, 2.

Stef and I agreed on the following list of essential earth-friendly and toxin-free Good Stuff. We hope this helps you build a baby shower registry or just make sure you have everything you need for the final stage of pregnancy and early days of parenthood.

Stefanie with Marlowe and Greta

Some of the items below are available in our store (and I’m working on getting more there!), and otherwise I will include a link to where you can find them. In a few cases, if you purchase an item from our link we may earn a commission from Amazon or elsewhere.

By the way, if you’re creating a registry, we love MyRegistry.com, which makes it super easy to register from multiple stores rather than just one place.

So, without further ado, here’s what we think you need! I look forward to your comments and suggestions of other amazing Good Stuff for a new baby.

FEEDING

Bottles

The big rule here is avoiding plastic, which can leach chemicals. Glass and stainless steel are our top choices, but silicone is also okay. We like the following three brands the best.

Hevea Baby Glass Bottles

Pura Kiki Stainless Steel Infant Bottle (We recommend the insulated ones so you can take them on the go and know that the milk will stay fresh!)

Como Tomo Silicone Baby Bottle Bundle

How many bottles do you need?

I barely used bottles because I exclusively breastfed and worked from home, so I asked Stef to weigh in to answer this. My key takeaways from our conversation are as follows:

• Newborns only drink 1-2 oz of breast milk/formula at a time so you want smaller bottles and the slowest flow nipple so they don’t choke while they eat.
• If you are exclusively formula-feeding, 5 or 6 small bottles would work, as long as you’re okay with washing some bottles throughout the day.
• If you are only supplementing with formula, 3 or 4 small bottles would be fine. (Having backsups is always nice.)
• When the baby starts drinking larger quantities, you need the bigger bottles that hold up to 8 oz and also need to switch your nipple to a higher level one, so they can get more liquid and won’t get frustrated. Again, you need 5 or 6 bottles for an exclusively bottle-fed baby, and 3 or 4 for a baby that’s also on the breast.

Formula

If you won’t be exclusively breastfeeding, you can use our guide to figure out which is the best formula for your situation. My top pick is Loulouka for almost everyone. Because you can’t know for sure which formula will best agree with your newborn’s stomach, I recommend starting with no more than 7 or 8 boxes.

Stokke Steps Chair Cushion

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GEAR

You’ll want to make sure that strollers and car seats contain no flame retardants or other problematic chemicals. (Our Car Seat Guide provides a review of many popular brands, and the following model from Clek is our favorite.)

Car Seat

Clek Liing Infant Car Seat, Mammoth

Milk Snob GOTS Certified Carseat Cover

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Stroller

Joolz Hub Non-Toxic Stroller with optional Bassinet

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Newborn Wrap Carrier

Moby Evolution Wrap

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Baby Carrier

Beco Organic Gemini baby carrier

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Infant Lounger

Snuggle Me Baby Lounger

Snuggle Me Baby Lounger Cover

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Bouncer

BabyBjorn Bouncer Bliss

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NURSERY & DECOR

Crib

Choose a crib and nursery furniture made of solid wood if possible, ideally with a no-VOC, nontoxic finish. Any of the dressers or changing tables from the following brands are also toxin-free, with the exception of the Ikea one.

Kalon Studios Caravan Crib

Romina Furniture New York Crib

Green Cradle Gratitude Slat Baby Crib

 

Ikea Sniglar Crib

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Crib Mattress

Choosing a toxin-free mattress, whether for a crib or a King-sized bed, can be a confusing process, and our Safe Mattress Guide endeavors to make it simpler. Naturepedic is our top-pick for a comfortable, safe crib mattress.

Naturepedic Organic Cotton Lightweight Crib Mattress Mattress

Blaynk Baby Organic Crib Sheet

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Travel Crib

Lotus Travel Crib

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Changing Table Pad

Once again, Naturepedic is our top choice for a flame-retardant free changing pad.

Naturepedic Changing Pad

Naturepedic Contoured Changing Pad Covers

Monica & Andy Changing Pad Cover

 

 

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Playmat

Most mats for babies contain polyurethane foam. We chose CorkiMat as our top pick because it contains no polyurethane or flame retardants and comes encased in organic cotton.

CorkiMat Comfy Non-Toxic Playmat

 

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Nursery Rug

Rugs are another place where you’ll often find flame retardant chemicals. Lorena Canals offers a large selection of machine-washable cotton rugs free of toxins. Below are a few of our favorite. (Make sure that the pad you put under the rug is made of 100% natural rubber rather than vinyl, which contains phthalates.)

Hippy Stars

Happy Llama

 

Azteca

Earth Weave Rubber Rug Gripper

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Air Filter

Austin Air Healthmate Plus Junior Filter

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CLOTHING & ACCESORIES

Ideally, your baby will be clothed in only organic cotton. If you can’t find certified organic, then look for an Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certifictaion,  which prohibits the use of dangerous dyes and other toxins. Castleware is a brand we trust across the board.

Complete Organic Layette

Monica & Andy Newborn Layette Cuddle Box

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Onesies & Sleepers

Burt’s Bee’s Organic Bodysuits

 

Primary Short-Sleeve Babysuit

Pact Long-Sleeve Bodysuit

 

Primary Organic Zip Footie

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Pants

Primary Baby Pants

 

Under the Nile Footed Pant

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Mittens

Oeuf Newborn Mittens

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Swaddles & Blankets

You’ll want to have at least three swaddles on hand, because your baby will inevitably pee through at least one each day. And you’ll find that you can never have enough cute organic blankets.

Blaynk Baby Organic Swaddle

Monica & Andy Organic Coming Home Blanket

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Sleep Sack

You’ll probably want a to stock a few sleep sacks, since babies will pee (or worse) through these, too!

Castlewear Sleeper Bag

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Socks

Touched by Nature Organic Baby Socks

Monica & Andy Baby Tube Socks

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Hats

Pehr Knot Hat

Spearmint Love Organic Cotton Beanie

Under the Nile Cold Weather Hat

Laundry Detergent

Any of the laundry soaps in our Detergent Guide are toxin-free and safe for baby clothes. The following two brands are customer favorites.

Eco-Me Laundry Detergent

Pure Natural Baby Laundry Detergent

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DIAPERING

I was certainly not a full-time cloth-diapering momma, but things have come a long way—if I had to do it again, I would absolutely give it a try!

Cloth Diapers

If you’ll be a full-time, cloth-diapering mom, we recommend 24 inners and 6 outters. If you’ll be a part-time cloth diaperer, go with 12 inners and 4 outters. (Your baby will need to move up to Size 2 when she hits 18 pounds)

Esembly Inner Diaper

Use code GOODSTUFF*10* at checkout for 10% off everything at Esembly.

Esembly Outer Diaper Cover

 

Esembly Overnight Insert

MamaSuds Cloth-Diaper Safe Liquid Laundry

ImseVimse Wet Bags

While this is designed for cloth diapers on the go, the large one could also used to line a diaper pail and reduce waste.

Esembly Day Bag

Use code GOODSTUFF*10* at checkout for 10% off everything at Esembly.

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Disposable Diapers

If you decide to use disposable diapers (even part time), our Diaper Guide can help you choose the most eco-friendly brands. Nest is a reader favorite.

Nest Baby Diapers

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Diaper Wipes

We hope you’ll get addicted to the reusable variety, but you can register for several kinds and see which ones you like best.

Jackson Reece Baby Wipes

Noleo Duo Baby Wipes System

ImseVimse Washable & Reusable Cloth Wipes

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Diaper Creams & Powder

Our Diaper Cream Guide will help you choose a toxin-free product for diaper rash relief. The following are our favorites.

Green Goo Baby Balm

Babo Botanicals Oatmilk Calendula Soothing Diaper Cream

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Baby Lotion

Babo Botanicals Sensitive Baby Fragrance Free Daily Hydra Lotion

Beautycounter Baby Daily Protective Balm

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Baby Bathtub

Stokke Flexi Bathtub

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Organic Towels

Under the Nile Spa Gift Bag Set

Under the Nile Newborn Hooded Towel

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Organic Wash Cloths

Under the Nile Sherpa Wash Cloths

Under the Nile Wash Mitt Set

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ON THE GO

Diaper Bag

Dera Design Organic Canvas Diaper Bag

Esembly Petite Pouch

Use code GOODSTUFF*10* at checkout for 10% off everything at Esembly.

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Face/Hand Wipes

Babo Botanicals 3-in-1 Sensitive Baby Wipes

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Hand Sanitizer

All Good Organic Peppermint Hand Sanitizer Spray

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BOOKS

You’ll almost certainly be gifted many books, including multiple copies of Good Night Moon. Here are a few other wonderful first book ideas.

You Are Light

Here We Are

The Skin You Live In

A is for Activist

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PLAY

Our Safe Toy Guide offers some guidelines for choosing toxin-free toys for children of all ages. What follows are some of our favorite toys and teethers for the youngest set.

Gym

Lovevery Play Gym

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Soft Toy

Petit Collage Organic Bunny Soft Chime Ball

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Teethers

Three Hearts VW Bus Silicone Teether

Under the Nile Carrot Organic Veggie Toy Teether

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Rattles

Haba Rattling Max

Kleynimals Stainless Steel Keys

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Doll

Under the Nile Sasha Dress Up Doll

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Versatile Toy

Rainbow Toy

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Lovey

Under the Nile Sleeping Lovey Doll

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Play Kits

Lovevery Play Kits

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FOR MAMA

Nipple Cream

My own breastfeeding experience was really tough, and I hope not one woman reading this goes through the same. If you have even a little discomfort, you’ll want a safe, soothing, toxin-free balm like my favorite from Green Goo.

Green Goo Nursing Cream

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Stretch Mark Balm

Green Goo Belly Balm

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Sitz Bath

Green Goo Herbal Sitz Bath

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Radiation Protection

DefenderShield EMF Radiation Protection Baby Belly Band

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Reusable Nursing Pads

Bamboobies Washable Nursing Pads

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Nursing Pillow

Holy Lamb Nursing Pillow

 

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Nursing-Friendly PJs

Hatch Collection Organic Pointelle Set

Coyuchi Cloud Brushed Organic Sleep Shirt

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Nursing Bras & Tanks

Kindred Bravely Nursing/Pumping Tank

 

Kindred/Bravely Organic Nursing/Sleep Bra

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Maternity/Nursing Poncho

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Comfy Underwear

Knickey Organic Cotton Undies

 

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Leggings

Cinnamon – New Mom Wear Leggings by DynaTot

Milestone Block Set

Modern Blocks Milestone Block Set

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New Pregnancy Resource

Unique Footprints is an online pregnancy program that teaches you everything you need to know for your entire pregnancy and early days of motherhood. It includes pregnancy meal planning, prenatal yoga, birth and postpartum prep, fetal brain development, breastfeeding, baby care, infant sleep and safety, and much more. Unique Footprints is made up of a team of nurses, dietitians, counselors, infant sleep coaches, lactation consultants, and yoga therapists. Use code GIMME THE GOOD STUFF at checkout for a 10% discount.

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The post Complete Non-Toxic Baby Registry Checklist appeared first on Gimme the Good Stuff.

(Please note that anything you’d like to buy from our store should be ordered by May 1st to ensure that it is delivered in time.)

Organic Romper

Beach coverup turned quarantine uniform. $68. (For reference–I’m 5’10” and the actual model here is 5’2″, so this works on both tall and petite women.)

Herb Planters

Le Creuset is running a 20% off sale right now, on these pretty planters as well as their iconic cookware.

Superfood Chocolate Granola

With ashwagandha to help regulate cortisol and stress hormones for a blissed-out snack. $16.

Clean CBD Oil

Blends include Sleep, Calm, Relief, Focus, and Desire. From $59.

Fresh Flowers

This company offers flowers from eco-friendly farms that minimize waste, recycle water, and use sustainable growing practices. From $39.

Lip & Cheek Tints

A versatile, nourishing product that comes in a range of gorgeous, subtle shades. $28.

Organic Linen Sheets

Sheets are one of my favorite gifts to give or receive, and these are especially luxe. From $118.

All Bright C Serum

I can’t wait to start using this raved-about serum–100% of women who tried it said their skin looked brighter, and 97% said it looked more youthful. $79.

Hangover-Free Champagne Subscription

Natural, lab-tested, toxin-free sparkling wine, delivered to her (or your!) door. From $94.

Check out lots of other ideas for Mother’s Day HERE.

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1. Clek / 2. Uppa Baby Jordan / 3. Nuna Rava / 4. Britax / 5. Bugaboo

Buying a “safe” car seat for your new baby (or your toddler) should be simple, but can be confusing and overwhelming. Obviously, the primary concern is choosing a seat that will protect your baby in the event of a car accident, and I like the Wirecutter for its reviews on items like this.

Of course, here at Gimme, we also feel that it’s essential to look at the chemical safety of every car seat you’re considering. Doing this within your budget can making staying sane a challenge, but we hope this guide will help!

How to Use This Guide

We reviewed seats from ten car seat manufacturers. Most of these did not make seats that were all Good Stuff.

For this reason, you’ll note that in our list of Best/Good/Okay/Bad Stuff below, we’ve categorized the seats by model rather than brand, with the exception of Britax, as all of their seats are Good Stuff (but not Best Stuff).

It’s also worth noting that no car seat manufacture received higher grade then a D in transparency in this report. This is due to the lack of public communication about chemicals and their use, and the fact that not one manufacturer has a public restricted substance list and most do not have a public chemicals policy. We hope this changes in the future.

Toxins in Car Seats

Some of the most concerning chemicals that can be found in car seats are:

1) Flame Retardants

State and federal safety standards (FMVSS 302 and California TB 117) require all car seats and strollers to meet stringent flame retardant standards. 

There are two types of flame retardants: halogenated, which include brominated and chlorinated flame retardants, and non-halogenated, which

use phosphorus and nitrogen. Research shows that non-halogenated flame retardants are likely less toxic than are halogenated flame retardants.

Several companies are moving away from halogenated flame retardants, and that’s great. Still, we believe that phosphoruss-based flame retardants should be considered as potentially hazardous until proven otherwise, so that seats that contain those

It can be difficult to meet safety standards without adding chemical flame retardants, but it’s not impossible, and some manufacturers have been able to meet these requirements without the use of toxic materials or chemicals. You’ll learn more about these brands, below.

I’m excited to see so many car seat manufacturers now offering merino wool car seats. Wool is a naturally flame retardant fabric because it is difficult to ignite, and flames are often extinguished in the fibers. Furthermore, wool does not melt, drip, or stick to the skin when it burns.

2) Stain-Resistant Fabric Treatments (PFCs/PFOAs)

Stain-repelling PFOS (perfluorooctanesulfonic acid) is both massively detrimental to the environment and also linked to cancer, hormone disruption, and immune system dysfunction.

Scotchguard has phased-out PFOS and has replaced it with PFBS (perfluorobutanesulfonic acid). So far, PFBS seems safer, mostly due to a shorter half-life, but studies are still lacking.

Your best bet is to avoid any fabrics treated with stain- or water-repellents.

3) Shock-Absorbing Foams

The foam used in cars seats serves an important function: it absorbs impact when a car accident occurs. The foam used is in almost all seats is one of the following:

• EPS (Expanded Polystyrene, AKA Styrofoam)
  EPS is typically treated with halogenated flame retardant and breaks off more easily, and thus car seats made with EPS should usually be avoided.
• EPP (Expanded Polypropylene)
  EPP foam is environmentally friendly, apparently non-toxic, and offers impact absorption and high strength properties. Also, EPP foam does not require the use of additional flame retardants.
• EPO (Expanded Polyolefin)
  Like EPP, EPO is naturally flame resistant.

You might have heard about other concerning toxins in car seats, including phthalates, PVCs, heavy metals, and more. Fortunately, you can look for certifications on car seats that will ensure that these have been tested for, such as JPMA, Oeko-Tex, and GreenGuard.  

The Four Best Brands for a Non-Toxic Car Seat

Clek: All Clek brand car seats are third-party tested for volatile chemicals/components and all seat covers can be removed and washed. Clek is also the first and only car seat manufacturer with a recycling program so I give them extra props for that. You can see which fabrics/models are Best, Good, and Okay below. 

Nuna Baby: Nuna is a Dutch company, and as of 2019 all Nuna car seats are free of flame retardants. Nuna changed the foam used in all of their car seats (except for the Aace booster) from EPS to EPO (expanded polyolefin), which is naturally flame resistant. Nuna private labels non-toxic car seats for Bugaboo and Stokke, as you’ll see below.

Orbit: Orbit baby is moving towards using merino wool for their future car seat launches. These will be offered at a higher price point. Currently, Orbit’s infant car seat is Good Stuff,  and once they transition to merino wool, they’ll likely be upgraded to Best Stuff. Orbit will be launching a toddler car seat in 2020. 

Uppa Baby: Uppa makes one car seat, called the Mesa. Depending on the fabric, and Mesa might be Best Stuff, Good Stuff, or Okay Stuff. You can read more about these, below.

A Note on Cybex: They are not included below because we have not heard back from them. We will add them into the appropriate category when they get back to us.

The Best Stuff

The Good Stuff

The Okay Stuff

The Bad Stuff

Stay sane,

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The post Safe Car Seat Guide appeared first on Gimme the Good Stuff.

Below are some of our favorite non-toxic stocking stuffers for all ages!

Deep Lavender Rub

This deeply comforting chest and neck rub utilizes the heat-producing essential oils of ginger, rosemary, and eucalyptus to relax and release upper respiratory tightness due to colds, allergies, stress, or asthma.

$28.99Buy Now

Paleo Bar Soap

Made with beef tallow and wild-crafted herbs for a gentle and effective cleansing, Paleo Skincare of Brooklyn makes soaps for men, women, and babies.

$9.99 — or subscribe and save up to 5%Buy Now

Soy Wax Candle

Scented with rosemary and mint, this candle is 100% natural and biodegradable, with no added color or dyes.

Electric Musical Toothbrush

With a super gentle rotary action and soft nylon bristles for delicate gums, this musical toothbrush with a timer has been a game-changer for my kids.

Made with recycled, non-toxic ABS handles and free from BPA, PVC and phthalates, the heads are replaceable and the brush should last for more than three years.

$29.99Buy Now

Immune Tonic

Urban Moonshine Certified Organic Immune Tonic can be taken daily to boost the immune system naturally–it also makes a great gift for the teachers who are surrounded by our germs kids!

Southern Butter Personal Lubricants

Green Goo’s line of Southern Butters are organic and entirely free of all the nasty petroleum products and phthalates that you’ll find in conventional lubricants. Do it naturally!

$19.00Buy Now

Green Goo Everyday Travel Kit

This travel kit from Green Goo is perfect for a purse or diaper bag. It contains lip balms and skin salves you need for first aid or for dry skin.

Farmaesthetics Nourishing Lavender Milk

Farmaesthetics Nourishing Lavender Milk is great for moms and babies alike! It’s gentle enough for use on your face, but it’s great at combatting dry skin, too.

$42.00 — or subscribe and save up to 5%Buy Now

Ultra Rich Face & Body Butter

If you prefer a tub for your body lotion over a pump, this is the product for you! Tandi’s body butter is great for your dry skin as it can provide head to toe coverage.

Gimme the Good Stuff customer, Robin, wrote: “I shower at night often so I use this as my nighttime moisturizer and I haven’t looked back! And it has lasted a LONG time, as you only need a very little bit.”

$12.00 — or subscribe and save up to 5%Buy Now

Cocoa Butter Lip Balm

These dreamy Cocoa Butter Organic Lip Balms are super moisturizing, long-lasting and have the fragrance of dark chocolate.  Made by Badger Natural and Organic Body & Skincare, they contain Fair Trade Certified™  and cruelty-free ingredients. (My kids insist on licking the chapped skin around their mouths all winter–they are both getting lots of these in their stockings this year!).

Hand Sanitizing Spray

CleanWell Hand Sanitizing Spray  kills germs with a patented formulation of thyme oil – including kills cold and flu germs! It also leaves skin feeling soft and hydrated without stinging any exposed cuts.   This fun sized hand sanitizer is safe, non-toxic and universal stocking stuffer gift for anyone.

Natural Rubber Bathtub Toys

Begin Again Bathtub Pals  are made from natural rubber and free of phthalates. These fun characters bubble when submerged and drain easily after playtime in the bath, beach, or pool.

$3.99Buy Now

Eco-Friendly Dog Spray

Because your fur babies deserve non-toxic products in their Christmas stocking, too!  Eco-Me Natural Dog Clean Spray is the perfect product to freshen your dog’s fur between baths with a waterless grooming action that’ll leave fur smelling fresh and clean. Suitable for both short and long-haired dogs.

Sippy/Bottle Silicone Straw

Pura Kiki Silicone Straws are the very first (and still the only!) 100% plastic-free straw module available for sippy cups and bottles. If your toddler has the Pura Sippy Cup, you can include this straw in her stocking for a big-kid upgrade!

$7.99Buy Now

Stainless Steel Foldable Spork with Pouch

We sold out of these convenient little guys the minute we got them in our store–but we are now fully stocked for your stockings:).

$10.00Buy Now

Beeswax Sandwich Wraps

$10.99Buy Now

Beeswax Crayons

These earthy-colored crayons are handmade in Portland, Maine, with natural wax and mineral pigments.

$19.99Buy Now

Organic Asparagus Toy

One of the few veggies that both of my kids like, now available in an organic cotton toy.

$12.99Buy Now

Order before December 19th to ensure delivery by Christmas Eve!

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The post Christmas Stocking Stuffers for 2018 appeared first on Gimme the Good Stuff.

You can find the 2020 Gift Guide here.

If you’re looking to give only Good Stuff this holiday season, here are some of our favorite natural gift ideas for everyone on your list.

Some of these you’ll find in our online store, where we will cover shipping if you spend $50.

Otherwise, we’ve linked to where you can buy these unique natural gifts. In some cases, we may earn a small commission if you shop from these Good Stuff-approved brands.

Please comment below with your own ideas for non-toxic, natural gifts!

Stay sane,

For the Ladies

Metallic mug set

She’ll surely give you one of them to take home for yourself.

Glo & Go mini oils

Only $30 while supplies last.

Superfood popcorn trio

PS: If you’ve been wanting to try Sakara’s meal delivery, it’s use code REF_MAIALOVE15 for 15% off.

Nourishing herbal cream

Quite simply the most luxurious natural cream we’ve found.

$44.00 — or subscribe and save up to 5%Buy Now

Hangover-free wine bottle (or subscription!)

This is what I buy for myself every Christmas, if I’m honest.

Oxygen for her face

This is perfect for a friend who works out—a quick misting after a sweat session is super hydrating. Use code GIMME15 for 15% off

A smarter vitamin

Includes the exact high-quality nutrients that most women need, and none of the usual junk that we don’t.

Cozy organic set

My sister-in-law gave me this robe last Christmas, and it may have been my favorite gift.

An auto vacuum to clean up (toxic!) dust while she sleeps

I lied. THIS was my favorite gift last Christmas–also from my sister-in-law!

A gift certificate to our curated collection of natural products

I’m biased, but I feel like maybe this is the best gift on this list?

$25.00 – $250.00Buy Now

For Toddlers & Kids

Custom name prints

I bought one of these for my boys’ last Christmas, and it’s my favorite piece of art in their room.

$98.00 – $298.00Buy Now

Pack Your Bags board game

Perfect for kids ages 4-8.

Stainless steel water bottle

If your kids, like mine, have already lost the one you bought in September.

Wordless Winter book

Once you see how gorgeous the illustrations are in this, you’ll want to buy the other seasons, too.

Real rubber ducky

No phthalates here! This rubber ducky doubles as a teether, made of 100% rubber and free of all plastic.

$14.99Buy Now

Sliceable fruits and veggies

Cute AND toxin-free.

Organic jammies

My kids wear these all day on Christmas.

$35.99Read more

Washable house pillow

Perfect for bedroom or playroom.

Peter & Lotta’s Christmas book

My very favorite holiday book.

Organic Waldorf doll

She even comes with an extra outfit.

$52.99Buy Now

Natural play dough

Don’t worry if they eat a little of this;).

$18.99Buy Now

Wooden rainbow bell tower

They really just do it better in Europe, don’t they?

SPF sun and swim suit

For those lucky kids who get to go somewhere warm this winter.

$53.99Add to cart

Universe rug

The best thing about this cotton rug is that you can toss it in the washing machine.

$299.00Buy Now

For Brand New Babies

Organic hooded towel and wash mitt

$47.99Buy Now

Welcome Baby gift set

A perfect starter set for parents wanting toxin-free skincare for their new baby.

Buy Now from Beautycounter

Cloth book with matching teether

Cuter and safer than Pat the Bunny.

A bottle that grows with the child

This 100% plastic-free bottle evolves as your child grows, turning into a sippy cup, a straw cup, and finally a sports bottle.

Wooden stroller book

Plastic-free means no worries if this winds up in baby’s mouth.

For a Hostess or Teacher

High-phenol olive oil

This game-changing organic EVOO is as much a medicine as it is a food.

Festive natural hand creams

My friend suggested giving this to a teacher with a note that says “you’re hands-down the best!” 🙂

A pretty pepper mill

They make matching salt mills, too.

Buckwheat sleep pillow

These handmade pillows have a cult following, and for people with neck or back pain, they can be life-changing.

$29.00 – $95.00Buy Now

Soy wax candle

Scented with rosemary and mint, and 100% natural and biodegradable, with no added color or dyes.

Handmade rainwater soap

Made with organically grown herbs, flowers, and grains to create unique textures and colors. Try Snow & Cedar for a seasonal treat!

$12.99 — or subscribe and save up to 5%Buy Now

Immune Zoom

This stuff actually works–teachers will appreciate the immune system boost!

$18.99 – $33.00 — or subscribe and save up to 5%Buy Now

For the Men in Your Life

Organic pajama pants

This might just convince him to stop sleeping in his skivvies.

Paleo soap

These beef-tallow bars are free of all detergent and great for dudes committed to a caveman lifestyle.

$9.99 — or subscribe and save up to 5%Buy Now

A really nice skillet

There are major Black Friday deals right now on these high-end ceramic cookware pieces.

Lube!

Hehehe…

$19.00Buy Now

A non-toxic but (not crunchy) skincare set

Includes cleanser, shaving cream, aftershave tonic, and light face lotion.

Radiation protection (for when he brings work home)

His lap is pretty close to his, erm, sperm-making parts, you know?

$119.00Buy Now

Stocking Stuffers

Kid-safe nail polish

Made in USA and free of formaldehyde, toluene, DBP, ethyl acetate, acetones, or solvents.

$8.00Buy Now

Radiation-free headphones

These headphones eliminate EMF exposure to the head.

$74.99Buy Now

Musical toothbrush

Electric toothbrushes were a game-changer in our house, and this one plays music to tell your child how long to brush.

$29.99Buy Now

Asparagus toy

Honestly, I’d be psyched to get this in my own stocking.

$12.99Buy Now

Sweet Honey lip balm

Our best-selling lip balm is a hit with grownups and kids alike.

Toilet Bombs

This is a fun way to give a practical gift (spoiler alert, honey: you’re getting these in your stocking).

$14.00 — or subscribe and save up to 5%Buy Now

Foldable spork with pouch

Handy and practical for kids or grown-ups.

$10.00Buy Now

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The post Holidays 2018 Natural Gift Guide appeared first on Gimme the Good Stuff.

Written by Suzanne, AKA “Nana”

This post is for all of the conscious grandparents out there – the ones trying to navigate this world of natural living so that a non-toxic lifestyle can be passed down to future generations!

Of course, parenting has changed over the decades and will continue to evolve. What we thought was safe and healthy for our children may be very different from what our own children think is best for their kids.

Perhaps you, like me, are a 1970s hippie who has been making organic smoothies for half a century. Or maybe your child is the one who has introduced you to a more holistic lifestyle. Maybe your daughter freaked out when you gave your granddaughter a plastic toy or your son quietly returned the non-organic crib sheets you sent his new baby.

Either way, we can help you!

Gimme the Good Stuff is a multi-generational company, and as a grandmother myself, I can imagine how sudden demands to be more “conscious” could seem overwhelming.

If you have any inclination to learn more from a fellow grandparent and “wow!” your children by being the hippest grandma on the block, here are some ideas.

Top 10 Natural Grandparenting Tips

1. Create a non-toxic sleep environment in your home.

Children spend so much time in their beds–even when visiting their grandparents–and non-toxic bedding, especially crib or twin-sized mattress, ensures that they won’t be exposed to a range of scary toxins. Learn more in our mattress guide.

2. Wear your grandchild.

Carrying babies is so much better for their developing brains than putting them in chairs and strollers. It provides other health benefits for both the baby and parent (or grandparent!), while also limiting baby’s exposure to outside toxins. I remember singing and reciting poems to my first grandchild when I “wore” him around the neighborhood in this carrier.

3. Invest in a water filter for your home.

There are so many nasty chemicals in most tap water, and a robust water filter protects your grandchildren from chlorine, trace pharmaceuticals, and heavy metals.

4. Opt for natural laundry products.

If you make the switch to natural laundry soap and dryer balls and sheets, your kids will be thrilled to do a load of laundry when they are at your house. (Wait, maybe you don’t want that?!).

5. Buy your grandkids organic clothing.

Skip polyester and other synthetic materials, and instead choose all natural fibers–preferably organic–when buying clothing or swaddles for your grandchildren.

6. Don’t wear perfume around your grandchildren.

Unfortunately, perfume is full of phthalates. I can always tell when a scented caregiver has snuggled a baby because the scent will linger on their little fuzzy heads! Instead, opt for alternative fragrances like all-natural lotions, balms, essential oils, and soaps.

7. Avoid plastic toys.

Most plastic toys contain an assortment of toxins like chlorine and PVC, which can be harmful when babies invariably use all toys as chew toys! (Not to mention the environmental impact of mass-producing all those plastic toys!) Instead, consider gifting your grandkids higher-quality, non-toxic toys. Check out our Non-Toxic Toy Guide for suggestions.

8. Upgrade bathtime.

Treat yourself and your family by investing in conscious bath and body products. Our Safe Product Guides provide tons of product options for bubble baths, shampoos, soaps, and bath toys to provide quality bath and body care, as well as some peace of mind knowing bathtime is chemical free.

9. Make Screen-Time Safer

For your children and grandchildren using tablets, iPads, smartphones, and other screen technology, investing in screen protectors that shield radiation will offer a drastic decrease in the amount of EMFs (electromagnetic radiation fields) they are exposed to.

10. Make Mealtime Healthy.

Your kids will undoubtedly applaud you if you offer their children veggie-heavy snacks and healthy desserts, ideally using organic ingredients. Garner bonus points by sending home leftovers in plastic-free food storage containers.

Are You a Natural Grandparent?

Okay, grandmas, I want to hear from you! What other steps have you taken to be a conscious grandparent?

And parents–what other things do you WISH your parents would do to give you peace of mind about your children’s health when they are with their grandparents?

Please share below!

To your health,

P.S. Let’s not forget that studies show that simply being in each others’ company is healthful for both grandparents and grandchildren.

Shop This Story

Naturepedic Crib Mattress

$259.00 – $289.00Buy Now

Moby BabyHawk Meh Dai

$99.95Buy Now

Under Counter Water Filter

$220.99Buy Now

Pura kiki baby bottle

$19.00 – $26.00Buy Now

Sonett Laundry Liquid

$29.99 — or subscribe and save up to 5%Buy Now

Stasher Reusable Silicone Bags

$9.99 – $21.99Buy Now

DefenderShield Universal Tablet Radiation Case

$104.99 – $114.99Buy Now

Babo Botanicals Calming Bubble Bath & Wash

$15.99 — or subscribe and save up to 5%Buy Now

Under the Nile Dress Up Doll

$52.99Buy Now

Begin Again Bathtub Ball

$24.99Buy Now

Under the Nile Baby Gown

Reverse Osmosis Countertop Water Filter System by ZIP

$469.95Buy Now

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The post Toxin-Free Grandparenting: How to Support Your Children & Protect Your Grandchildren’s Health appeared first on Gimme the Good Stuff.

Written by Maia, President & Founder

It’s been a very wet April here in Brooklyn! I hate to rain on your parade, but gear like raincoats, rain pants, rain boots and umbrellas can be made with toxic materials that are bad for consumers, workers, and the environment. In the past, some studies have found worrisome stuff like heavy metals and phthalates in kids’ rain gear. Aren’t I just a ray of sunshine, as usual? 😉

Actually, there’s good news: it appears that the industry is slowly shifting to avoid the worst materials (like PVC/vinyl and toxic waterproofing treatments) in favor of safer ones. However, it makes sense to be careful about your choices of rain gear, especially what you’re buying for kids.

Read on for more information about what to watch out for in rain gear, as well as my top picks for safer rain gear for babies and kids.

What’s wrong with kids’ rain gear and boots?

Sadly, the safeguards that limit toxic substances in kids’ toys don’t apply to products like rain gear and rain boots.

Here are the most concerning materials to watch out for in rain coats, rain pants, rain boots, and umbrellas:

• Polyvinyl chloride (aka PVC or “vinyl”) is perhaps best known as the plastic material that makes those shower curtain liners that are stinky for weeks after you open them. PVC is also used to make some rain boots (like the clear, light-up ones from Western Chief) and can provide a waterproofing layer on fabric. Some raingear has PVC-sealed seams. PVC can also be used to make colorful patterns and decals on fabrics. Unfortunately, PVC is among the most toxic of plastics. From production to use to disposal, it’s bad for people, wildlife, and the environment. It contains bad stuff like endocrine-disrupting phthalates and heavy metals (cadmium and lead), and this stuff continues to leach out over time to be absorbed through skin and ingested or inhaled.
• Synthetic, petroleum-based rubber is common in rain boots. Most rain boots are a combination of natural and synthetic rubbers. Synthetic rubber is possibly less problematic than PVC, but it still contains often-undisclosed additives (most companies won’t share the details of their proprietary formulas). It’s hard to know what’s in a “rubber” boot.
• Chemicals from the family of perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs)—think Teflon and other nonstick coatings on cookware and bakeware —are also used to make waterproof fabrics because they repel water. Many PFCs are bad for people and the environment. Companies like Gore Fabrics, makers of Gore-Tex, are slowly phasing out their use of the most concerning PFCs. In the meantime, you have to watch out for them in raincoats, rain pants, and other waterproof clothing.

What’s the alternative to toxic rain gear and rain boots?

As I mentioned, the good news is that it appears that many companies that produce rain gear and rain boots are shifting away from the most toxic materials. And there are several companies deliberately making safer products for babies and kids. You also have the option of using products that aren’t technically rain gear, but that have water-resistant properties (more on that in a minute).

When shopping for rain gear, look for products that are:

• PVC/vinyl-free
• Phthalate-free
• Lead-free (and/or free from heavy metals in general)
• Free from PFC-based waterproof materials, like PTFE (aka Teflon) and PFOA (a component of Teflon and other materials)

Safer materials include:

• “Natural” rubber: We’ve been told that there’s no such thing as “100% natural rubber” boots, because some additives are necessary to make the rubber material functional, but you can find boots made primarily from natural rubber (rather than mostly synthetic rubber or PVC).
• Nylon and polyurethane fabrics can be inert (stable when not heated) and waterproof or water resistant without the need for the most concerning waterproofing materials.

My top picks for safer rain gear

Below are some of the companies that are making safer rain gear for babies and kids (listed in alphabetical order):

Hatley offers good rainwear and boots for children. Their kids’ raincoats/jackets, pants, and one-piece rain suits are made from polyurethane outer fabric with no worrisome coating, plus a woven polyester lining, and are PVC-free. Seams are heat-sealed with no additional materials (like PVC). Hatley boots, available in toddler and kids’ sizes, are also a PVC-free; they’re a combo of natural and synthetic rubbers, with a high content of natural rubber. The boots are third-party tested to ensure safety and compliance with North American laws. I like their kids’ umbrellas because they have wooden handles, rather than EVA foam handles, and there is no worrisome coating on the fabric. All the photos on this page of my own kids feature Hatley gear!

i play Play Wear has a rainwear line in baby and toddler sizes. Their raincoats and rain pants are Good Stuff because they are made from woven polyester with a polyurethane coating and are PVC-free, formaldehyde-free, and azo dye-free. I’m not as crazy about the umbrellas, because the handle is EVA foam. EVA (aka PEVA) is often marketed as being “safe” and “eco-friendly,” because it’s less problematic than other vinyl-containing materials like PVC, but it still raises red flags and is best to avoid if possible, especially for products that come in contact with little hands.

Puddlegear makes Good Stuff for babies, toddlers, and kids: rain jackets, bib-style rain pants, and waterproof mittens and hats. The primary material is a high-quality, thick, uncoated polyurethane fabric that is PVC free and phthalate free, and the seams are heat-sealed. Unfortunately, Puddlegear does not yet make boots.

Stonz offers several kinds of boots for babies, toddlers and children. We haven’t heard back from them yet about details regarding their materials, but I’m fairly confident that their toddler-sized Rain Bootz are Good Stuff. Stonz states that these boots are “100% natural rubber,” which can’t be fully true, but I do like that they are free from the most concerning stuff—PVC, phthalates, lead, and formaldehyde.

Are Hunter boots safe?

Short answer—I’m not sure, because Hunter hasn’t responded to our questions about the materials they use in their products.

The longer answer is that I’m a little concerned. Hunter lists “natural rubber” on their website as the material used to make their kids’ boots, but the boots can’t be made with natural rubber alone. I also wonder about the materials they use to get the high-gloss, metallic and glitter finishes on some of their boots. Hunter claims to watch out for “restricted substances” in their supply chain, but I couldn’t find any statements that their boots are free from PVC, phthalates, etc.

If you’re a Hunter devotee and don’t want to part with your favorite wellies, check out my three habits for safer rain gear, at the end of this post.

Are Crocs non-toxic?

If you’re someone with a latex/rubber allergy, Crocs makes simple rain boots that are free of these allergens. Unfortunately, the company is really coy about their proprietary material.

They say it’s not EVA foam, and it doesn’t contain phthalates (and a couple of other bad things), but they don’t really say what it DOES contain (beyond using vague terms like it’s “a closed-cell resin”), and the vinyl content is hard to confirm or deny. I’m not too worried about Crocs rain boots since boots would be worn with socks and Crocs material tends not to be as smelly as most rubber mixtures or PVC, but I can’t quite call Crocs Good Stuff.

Do you really need rain gear?

Depending on your climate and how much time you spend out in the elements, you may be able to get by with other materials that aren’t technically rain gear but that have water-repellant properties, such as:

• • Wool naturally repels water and provides warmth—that’s why sheep wear it! Wool is one of the materials that kept people warm and dry before plastics came along. Consider wool shirts, coats, pants and socks. The tighter the weave, the better the moisture protection. My favorite brand is Hocasa.
  • Other traditionally waterproof fabrics include oilcloth, waxed cotton, and waxed canvas. (But watch out for modern “oilcloth,” which is actually coated with vinyl!) If you’re a DIY-er, you can apply wax-based waterproofing treatments to natural fabrics like cotton and hemp.
    
    
    
  • Polar fleece jackets and pants made from inert plastic fibers like polyester can be water repellant.

Three habits for less toxin rain gear

Here are three easy things you can do to make any kind of rain gear safer for your kids:

1. When you buy new rain gear, if there is any kind of smell, give the products a chance to off-gas in a well-ventilated area. This is most likely to happen with boots and other rubber products.
2. Always wear socks with rain boots.
3. Make sure that kids wash their hands when they come inside, especially before eating.

Stay sane (and dry!),

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Written by Maia, President

My “baby” recently turned 3. Unfortunately, his entire wish list consisted of plastic toys–from Legos to these weird Mashem things, there was nary a wooden/woolen/beeswax item to be found.

My kids play with Legos more than any other toy, and fortunately, they are made of ABS plastic, which is of pretty low toxicity concern.

As for other toys you ask my about often, here’s my opinion:

Melissa & Doug: My kids have a lot of this stuff, but it’s all made in China, and some of it has been found to be contaminated with heavy metals. Ideally, it should be avoided, although that’s easier said than done.

Plan Toys: Plan makes all of their toys in a sustainable factory in Thailand. It’s their own factory and they maintain control of the production, so I basically trust that they are non-toxic toys, really use water-based paint, etc.

Hape: Made in China, but they maintain control of their factory and most of the materials (paints, etc.) are from Germany. I feel okay about this brand.

Grimm’s (also called Spiel & Holz): German-made and non-toxic, although somewhat hard to find in the United States. These wooden toys are stained instead of painted, so no chipping!

Green Toys: Plastic, but made of recycled polyethylene, a very safe, non-leaching type of plastic. I like that these toys are made in America, too.

Spielstabil: High-quality, non-toxic plastic toys.
Bannor Toys: Wooden toys handmade in Iowa, and use only non-VOC paints.

Maple Landmark: Their Schoolhouse Naturals line is free of any kind of finish.

Haba: Most of their wooden toys are produced in Germany, with non-toxic paints and finishes.

Under the Nile: Great organic cotton toys and teethers.

Camden Rose: Amazing wooden toys and teethers. They will make anything untreated at your request, or use a beeswax/jojoba finish or a food-grade mineral oil (I don’t love the use of mineral oil in skincare products, but I’m okay with it in toys.)

Hevea: Natural rubber balls and bath toys.

Stay sane,

 
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For Toddlers & Kids

Natural Paint Kit

Non-toxic, environmentally-friendly, and compostable. The best part? It’s made with fruits and veggies and the paints smell delicious!

$69.00Buy Now

Real Rubby Ducky

No phthalates here! This rubber ducky doubles as a teether, made of 100% rubber and free of all plastic.

Organic Cotton Doll

She even comes with an extra outfit!

$53.00 $49.99Buy Now

Natural Ball & Teether

A non-toxic alternative to plastic balls and teething toys, and is suitable for both babies and children.

$18.99Buy Now

For a New Baby

Organic Moses Basket

Made from organic cotton fleece and flannel, and the set includes a cozy bumper, blanket, and mattress.

$300.00Buy Now

Organic Hooded Kimono

Perfect for bath-time or beach-time!

$32.99Buy Now

Organic Baby Gift Set

Includes herbal preparations for everything from diaper powder to body lotion.

$58.00Buy Now

Nontoxic Baby Wipes Subscription

A recurring monthly supply of 100% biodegradable, compostable and chlorine-free diaper wipes.

Also available without a subscription when you “buy now.”

Bottle that Grows with Child

This 100% plastic-free bottle evolves as your child grows, turning into a sippy cup, a straw cup, and finally a sports bottle.

For a Host or Hostess

Hot Toddy for the Body

A perfect nontoxic way to warm the body and be ready for the colder days of winter.

$21.00Buy Now

Soy Wax Candle

Scented with rosemary and mint, and 100% natural and biodegradable, with no added color or dyes.

Handmade Beauty Bars

Made with organically grown herbs, flowers, and grains to create unique textures and colors. Try Snow & Cedar for a seasonal treat!

$12.99 — or subscribe and save up to 5%Buy Now

Trio of European Hand Soaps

These beautiful hand soaps double as luxurious body washes. Free of all synethetic colors and fragrances.

For Grownups

Chocolate Herbal Tonic

Combines the herbal aphrodisiac powers of raw chocolate and honey with a variety of herbs and spices to kindle the flame of passion.

Glass Water Bottle with Straw

No need to unscrew the cap on this plastic-free sports bottle!

Water Filter

The holidays are a great time to get your loved one the water filter they’ve been on the fence about because of the initial investment.

This fluoride filter is the one I use. We have several under-counter and over-counter options for you to consider!

$294.99Buy Now

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The post 2015 Nontoxic Holiday Gift Guide appeared first on Gimme the Good Stuff.

1. Under the Nile / 2. MilkBarn / 3. Hanna Andersson / 4. Kate Quinn Organics

If you’re a Gimme the Good Stuff reader, you likely to try to eat organically grown food and are taking steps to eliminate toxins in your home. So it probably seems like a no-brainer to insist on organic cotton clothing for your kids. But organic clothing is harder to find than the regular stuff (although becoming more and more available), and it’s significantly pricier. And what happens when your baby shower gifts are all really cute, non-organic onesies? My private clients ask me all the time: How important is it for my kid to wear organic clothing?

My Top Pick for Best Organic Baby Clothes

Under the Nile is a small family business that offers some of the best certified organic baby clothes on the market. I like that they don’t have slogans, logos, or cheesy prints on anything, and that they are super soft and simple.

$35.99Buy Now

What is “Organic” Cotton?

Crops that are grown using organic methods means a lot to the environment, as well as to all the hands that actually work with and among the plants. Cotton that is not grown organically is treated with pesticides, herbicides, and chemical fertilizers. Harvesting organic cotton is much safer for the workers who pick it, and those living near cotton crops won’t have pesticides in their water sources. Plus, the producers can’t use GMO crops.

But in terms of the person wearing the clothing? The toxins used to farm the fiber are almost certainly washed out in the processing of the fiber, so you’re unlikely to get much pesticide exposure by wearing those clothes.  I still tell my clients to wash everything before their kids wear it, because young children are especially vulnerable to the harmful effects of pesticides, and we know that exposure has been linked to the development of ADHD. (There are many other good reasons to wash your clothes before wearing them, which I will get to in a minute.)

Bottom Line: You’re not exposing your kid to a lot of pesticides by putting him in a regular cotton T-shirt, but the chemicals washed out of the cotton that made his T-shirt ends up back in our environment. And you are exposing him to a lot of other gross chemicals in that conventional T-shirt, as you’ll read below.

Other Toxins Used in Fabric Treatment

Under the Nile’s line of organic baby clothes are GTOS certified.

Most clothing is produced with synthetic dyes and is treated with toxic chemicals to provide wrinkle resistance, stain resistance, fade resistance, static cling resistance, etc. In fact, that “new” smell in clothing usually indicates chemicals–and if the smell lingers after a washing, the chemicals haven’t been banished. Here’s some of the bad stuff found in some conventional fabrics:

• Benzidine-based “azo dyes” are synthetic colorants, some of which may release carcinogenic amines (ammonia derivatives). Certain azo dyes have been recognized as human bladder carcinogens and are also detrimental to the environment. In particular, o-dianisidine is a classified as potentially cancer causing in humans.
• Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen (although unregulated in this country), and is used in clothing to prevent wrinkling. Many popular brands of baby clothing have been shown to contain formaldehyde in concentrations as high as 18,000 ppm (parts per million). Supposedly, up to 20 ppm for babies is safe, but I’d prefer zero, thanks. Short-term exposure to formaldehyde in fabrics can lead to a condition called contact allergic dermatitis, which is just a bad rash, but still no fun. In 2013, Minnesota became the first state to ban formaldehyde in certain baby products (lotions, soaps, and shampoos)–let’s hope more states follow.
• Perfluorochemicals (PFCs) are a group of chemicals that work to repel water and stains, in particular grease. According to EWG, PCFs break down into a toxic blood contaminant called PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid), and they are ubiquitous (over 90% of Americans are shown to have PFOA in their bloodstream). PCFs are found in cosmetics, household cleaners, packaged food containers, microwave popcorn, furniture, paper plates, and nonstick pans, amongst other places. In clothing, PFCs are usually lurking in wrinkle-, water-, and stain-resistant clothing, including those with Scotchgard and Gore-Tex tags.
• Nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPEs) are cheap surfactants sometimes used in the textile industry. They are also yucky hormone disruptors that wind up in our water supply when we launder clothing that contains them.
• Phthalates–yup, they are even in our clothing! Children are at a significantly higher risk than adults when it comes to phthalate exposure, and phthalates are often found in clothing dyes and in plastisol prints.

Can organic clothing contain these chemicals?

Up until recently, yes. A manufacturer could take organically grown cotton and dye it with toxic colorants and then treat it with formaldehyde to prevent wrinkling. In 2011, the USDA ruled that textiles (including mattresses) labeled as “organic” have a third-party certification, ideally GOTS, which ensures that the entire production process is gentle on the environment and on the person wearing the garment.

Wolfie at 6 months, in a Zebi organic cotton romper.

Organic Clothing Certifications to Look For

Organic standards for clothing are still not as clear-cut as they are for food. That said, buying organic cotton garments greatly reduces the likelihood that you are exposing your baby to endocrine disruptors and carcinogens when you lovingly wrap her in a brand new swaddle blanket.

You should continue to wash all clothing and blankets (using non-toxic laundry detergent) before use, preferably multiple times (but really, does anyone actually have time for that?!).

When buying organic cotton clothing, make sure the company has a third-party certification to back up their claim. In the US, solid organic certifications include:

• The USDA National Organic Program
• The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)
• The Organic Trade Association (OTA)

If a company claims to use “natural” dyes, make sure they are certified by the Oeko-Tex Standard 100, which is the strictest out there.

The Good Stuff

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The Bad Stuff

The Sneaky Stuff

Want to Know More?

• To learn more about azo and other dyes, check out this study and this report.
• The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides more information on formaldehyde and its impact on our indoor air quality here.
• Ed Branigan, International Coatings’ Print Applications Manager reminds consumers of a very important aspect of labeling products: “ink doesn’t need to be free of phthalates in order to comply with CSPIA restrictions…some manufacturers may list their compliant products as “non-phthalate” when in reality the product still does contain phthalates, just not the six restricted ones.”
• Be sure to check out this resource from Green America on organic clothing and the textile industry.
• To learn more about children and pesticides, click here.
• In 2011, Greenpeace published a report on Toxic Threads: The Big Fashion Stitch Up. This is a great tool for those interested in learning about the toxic chemicals, dyes, and worldwide cycles of bioaccumulation that occur thanks to the manufacturing of clothing.

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The post Safe Baby Clothing Guide appeared first on Gimme the Good Stuff.

Illustration by Graham Goss (www.grahamlockegoss.com)

If you’re a parent in 2013, you probably own a baby carrier or two. We’ve got a Moby, an Ergo, a BabyHawk and a BBslen, all of which were well-used during Felix’s infancy and toddlerhood. (OK, I lied — I could never get the hang of the BB Slen, even though I desperately wanted to be one of those Brooklyn moms who effortlessly took that long piece of fabric and whipped it into a nice snug seat on my hip, from which my 4-year-old would dangle contentedly).

Skipping the stroller is more than just a passing fad–“babywearing” is a hobby and even a passion for many parents, and there are blogs, message boards and brick and mortar stores devoted exclusively to its art.

All this fervor is for good reason–ample evidence suggests that wearing our offspring is not just more convenient, but also is better for the child’s development. Simply put, there are many real benefits of babywearing.

On the convenience side, I always found that Felix fell asleep more quickly in the Moby than he did in the stroller, and I could nurse him on the go when wearing him, which saved time and hassle. We all know that it’s good for babies to be close to their caregivers–it provides security and comfort, especially for very young infants.

But, for me, there were three even better reasons to limit stroller time, and they are ones that you may have not considered. Here are three less discussed benefits of babywearing.

If you wear your baby often you might:

1. Reduce the Risk of Flat Head Syndrome

The position an infant’s body takes when held front-to-front by an adult is well suited for its physiology. Being placed into a stroller or car seat causes an infant to lie on either a flat or other inadequately shaped surfaces. This can cause physical deformities such as plagiocephaly (flat head syndrome), a problem that is associated with developmental delays.

2. Reduce Your Own Risk of Osteoporosis

As we have progressively made our physical workload lighter by way of technologies, so too have we seen a rise in osteoporosis and other bone/connective-tissue disorders. While much of the cause of these problems may have a lot to do with our diet, it has also been shown that the robustness (or lack thereof) of ones bones and connective tissues as we grow older is affected by the amount of weight-bearing exercise we do when younger. Following that logic, a woman who commonly carries her children is engaging in regular weight-bearing exercise over a course of years (or even decades, if you have a lot of kids and wear them for longer than I did!). This is one of the benefits of babywearing (or baby carrying) that modern moms miss out on.

3. Avoid Exposing Your Kid to the Toxins in the Stroller

Strollers can contain a number of noxious chemicals — from flame retardants on the fabric (linked to hormone disruption, hyperactivity, and lowered IQ) to the PVC — a probable carcinogen — in the rain covers. While a certain amount of exposure this stuff is inevitable (it’s in most car seats, too), decreasing the amount of time that your child spends in his stroller makes sense.

Now that he’s 3, Felix is in his stroller every day, and he is never in the carrier. Even when he weighed less, and even with the best carriers, my back couldn’t handle babywearing for hours at a time, and activities that involved bending or lifting quickly became painful (I used to hate Dr. Sears and his cheerful little illustrations of a woman mopping the floor or unloading the dryer with a toddler strapped to her chest). I know many moms who carry their babies for miles without apparent discomfort, however, and would love to hear about your own babywearing experiences–good and bad.

Stay sane,

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The post 3 Reasons to Wear Your Baby That No One Ever Talks About appeared first on Gimme the Good Stuff.