Pregnancy is the ultimate reminder that everything we do has an effect on someone, or something, else. It certainly inspires many women to rethink what they put in and on their bodies. As your baby develops, so do your protective, maternal instinct and the awareness that everything you absorb is also absorbed by this fragile new life. Air pollution is more ominous, sushi is potentially dangerous, product labels take on a new importance and you want to ensure your child grows up in a verdant and safe world. And that he or she has the most adorable accoutrements on the block.
REDUCE, REUSE & RECYCLE (OR UPCYCLE)
This is one of the easiest and most economical ways to equip your baby in an environmentally friendly way. Check with family and friends to see what gently used baby items they can pass on. And when you’ve outgrown something, pay it forward. Be sure to confirm that items like cribs and car seats comply with current safety standards and aren’t included in any recalls before taking them.
Shopping at thrift stores and consignment is another terrific way to save money and support your local community. Hand-Me-Downs is an online marketplace for gently used baby gear.
DIAPERS
Cloth vs. disposable is always a tough decision—and now hybrids are in the mix too. There is some debate over which option is better for the environment and which is easier on you and your wallet. Investigate your options.
- GroVia and gDiapers both make eco-friendly disposables and cloth diapers.
- DiaperSwappers is an online cloth diaper exchange (yes it’s hygienic) and a great forum for exchanging cloth vs. disposable information with other parents.
ITEMS WE LOVE
For those items that you can’t upcycle, babyearth has a vast array of eco-friendly options. It’s a fantastic site for launching your nursery planning. And for all you stylish mamis who appreciate a pretty package—eco-chic, eco-luxe, and eco-fabulous baby products are plentiful and affordable. The days of rough brown paper boxes and hand-written labels are definitely a thing of the past.
Here are just a few of our fab finds:
Leaf Printed Kimono Infant Sacque ($34)
Under the Nile Organic Veggies Teether ($6)
Oh Soy Reversible Blankets ($25)
