Did you know that babies are actually more vulnerable to certain environmental toxins than adults?
This is partially due to the fact that babies breathe in more air relative to their body size, exposing them to a greater concentration of airborne chemicals. Also, their developing brains are more susceptible since their blood-brain barrier, which protects against harmful substances, is not as fully developed as in adults. Crazy right?
Knowing these facts makes it crucial for us to carefully select the products we bring into our homes. Those early years of a baby's neurological development can be greatly affected by the chemicals in their environment.
Choosing safer products helps reduce the amount of harmful materials our little ones get exposed to, which will only benefit their health now and in the future!
I know it can feel overwhelming when all you want to do is protect your children, but switching to non-toxic options also feels confusing and expensive. I am here to tell you it doesn't have to be that way!
I am going to break down my top 6 swaps I would recommend making and talk about which products I personally recommend (after YEARS of using them)!
All links in the blog post are affiliate links, which means I make a percentage off your purchase at no additional cost to you.
1. Cleaning Products
There are several ways you can ditch chemicals in your home, but some of the most important (in my opinion and experience) are cleaning products, clothing detergents, and air fresheners.
Favorite Household Cleaners:
Force of Nature is an incredible multi-purpose cleaner and disinfectant that is as strong as bleach yet safe for pets and babies.
Force of Nature Cleaner offers an exceptional, non-toxic alternative for keeping your home clean and safe, especially around babies. Utilizing just salt, water, and vinegar, this cleaner uses the power of electrolyzed water to create a multi-purpose cleaning solution that's as effective as bleach but without harsh chemicals. It's free from harmful additives like fragrances, dyes, preservatives, and surfactants, making it PERFECT for families seeking to create a safe environment for their little ones.
Not only does it effectively eliminate germs, bacteria, and viruses on surfaces, but it also does so without leaving behind any residues that could harm a baby’s sensitive skin - which has been so great for us since Addy has such sensitive skin. And maybe best of all, the cost comes out to 10 cents an ounce, or $1 a bottle. I told you switching to a non-toxic cleaner doesn't have to be expensive!
Another great option for a household is an all-purpose cleaner. This cleaner offers an awesome cleaning solution without the harsh chemicals found in many conventional cleaning products. Thieves cleaner is highly versatile and effective for everything from floors and windows to baby toys and high chairs, ensuring all surfaces are safely sanitized without leaving harmful residues. Its plant-based formula is gentle enough for the most delicate environments but also tough enough to tackle gross messes, making it an ideal, all-in-one cleaner. I use thieves cleaner for EVERYTHING - just like I use Force of Nature in every room of my house!
Favorite Detergents:
I recently discovered Truly Free laundry detergent, and I am ecstatic! This laundry soap is an excellent choice for families seeking a gentle yet effective detergent! (plus, it smells incredible)
I've used A LOT of other non-toxic detergents throughout the years but they never left my clothing smelling as fresh as the toxic stuff. Then, I tried Truly Free and was stoked! Finally, a non-toxic detergent that smells just as yummy as Tide.
Use code JH30 for 30% off your order!
I also really like Molly's Suds. They have multiple options for laundry detergent - liquid, powder, pods, and even specific laundry soap for baby clothing that helps with ALL the stains that come with babies (spit up, poop, food, etc).
Favorite Air Fresheners:
Ditching traditional candles and air fresheners for a diffuser is a smart move, especially when you have a little one at home. Most candles and spray fresheners are packed with synthetic fragrances and chemicals that can pollute your home’s air and potentially harm your baby’s delicate respiratory system. Instead, using a diffuser with natural essential oils can freshen up your space safely, giving you peace of mind.
Not only that but diffusing essential oils can have so many extra benefits depending on which oils you choose to diffuse! Check out my list of Young Living oils that are the perfect scents to replace candles (scents like the cozy cabin and creamsicle), or you can check out this starter bundle that includes a beautiful diffuser.
2. Gear
Choosing flame-retardant-free baby gear is more than just a precaution—it's a vital step in protecting your little one's health! Babies, with their delicate systems, are particularly susceptible to the harmful chemicals often found in flame retardants used in many baby products like car seats and sometimes strollers. These chemicals can emit toxins that might interfere with their hormonal and neurological development, posing long-term health risks. As a parent, it's unsettling to think that everyday items could contain substances that might harm your baby, but when opting for products free from flame retardants, you're making a commitment to your child's safety and well-being.
Luckily, there are a few options when it comes to flame-retardant-free baby gear. Hopefully, all companies will pick up on our demands for flame-retardent-free gear, and all make the swap!
Car Seats
Nuna Rava (my personal choice)
Strollers
3. Care Items
Choosing non-toxic personal care items for babies is super important because their sensitive skin and developing systems are particularly vulnerable to the harmful chemicals commonly found in many personal care products. Using brands that prioritize safe, natural ingredients can greatly reduce the risk of allergies, skin irritations, and other health issues.
For example, Earth Mama Organics is well-known for its organic herbal products, including diaper balm and body wash, specifically designed for a baby's delicate skin. The Honest Company also offers a wide range of baby care items, from lotions to shampoos, all crafted to be gentle and safe, adhering to strict standards. Similarly, Pipette is a clean brand that we love. Pipette uses squalane in their baby products, a moisturizing ingredient derived from renewable sugarcane that mimics the natural moisturizing oils found in the skin - you can read about it here! By choosing these brands, parents can ensure they are applying the gentlest and safest products to their babies, fostering better health and providing peace of mind.
4. Linens
Choosing non-toxic linens for your baby is crucial for ensuring their sleep environment is as safe and healthy as possible. Babies spend a significant amount of time sleeping, which
means their skin is in constant contact with their bedding. Non-toxic linens made from organic materials like cotton or bamboo are free from harmful chemicals and pesticides often used in conventional fabric processing. These substances can cause skin irritation and allergies and potentially have long-term health effects. Brands like Burt's Bees Baby and Aden + Anais offer a range of baby linens, including sheets and swaddles, made from organic, certified materials that are gentle on baby's skin and free from harmful chemicals! Newton baby also offers organic cotton bedding, along with their renowned mattress.
5. Toys
When it comes to choosing toys for your little ones, it's not just about the fun! Their safety is paramount, especially since young children love to explore by tasting everything they can get their hands on.
Opting for non-toxic toys is essential to avoid exposure to harmful chemicals like BPA, phthalates, and lead, which can negatively impact their health and development. I recommend going for toys made from natural materials. For instance, wooden toys from sustainable sources and without harmful finishes are a great choice. A brand that we love is LoveEvery!
LoveEvery is a subscription to play kits that are perfect for your child in each developmental stage. Each kit is expertly crafted with sustainably sourced, non-toxic materials, ensuring safe and engaging play that grows with your child! Save 10% on your first 3 kits with my link.
6. Nursery
When setting up your little one's nursery, choosing non-toxic items like the crib and mattress is a top priority for your little one's health and safety. It’s comforting to know that there are certain brands that offer better options!
Brands like Babyletto offer beautifully designed cribs made from sustainably sourced wood and non-toxic finishes - and their cribs are honestly SO pretty. When it comes to mattresses, Newton Baby is my go-to for organic, chemical-free options that ensure my baby sleeps soundly and safely.
Newton Baby's original crib mattress is ultra-breathable and 100% washable. These choices not only give me peace of mind but also contribute to a healthier environment for my baby to grow up in. It’s all about creating a nurturing space where they can thrive right from the start!
With all the diaper stink and mess that comes with babies and toddlers, it's important to
have a good solution for eliminating odors. I found the perfect solution to this when Addy was little - Azuna!
Azuna uses a low-concentrate tea tree gel that not only smells good but also naturally eliminates odors by absorbing bacteria, mildew, and fungus particles. I use it in so many rooms in my house! Use doe JESSICA20 for a discount!
Conclusion
Making the switch to non-toxic products across various aspects of your baby’s life—from cleaning supplies and baby gear to personal care items, linens, toys, and nursery essentials—is a proactive step towards creating a safer, healthier environment for your little one. Each of these swaps plays a crucial role in reducing your child's exposure to harmful chemicals, supporting their development and well-being. Remember, every small change you make has a significant impact, providing your child with the best possible start in life. As parents, it’s comforting to know that by choosing non-toxic options, we’re taking real, actionable steps to ensure our homes are nurturing spaces where our children can thrive!
Xo,
Jess
L E T ' S B E F R I E N D S!
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