Babies can be extremely detrimental to the environment. Hence the super cute photo. These days there are so many products that are good quality and better for the environment than the standard baby products. The following is a list of items that now come in recyclable or reusable form. I’ve also listed a few of the companies for your convenience. This list is certainly not exhaustive but meant to be an introductory guide.
Baby wipes
http://www.Naty.com – biodegradable
http://www.honest.com – biodegradable
There are many other brands that are not biodegradable but are made with recycled materials and produce less waste.
Diapers
http://www.Naty.com – as close to biodegradable as possible
http://www.dy-dee.com is one company that offers doorstep drop off and pick up for cloth diapers.
http://www.gdiapers.com – reusable cloth diapers with disposable inserts
Shampoo/soap
http://www.Naty.com – biodegradable
http://www.honest.com – biodegradable
This is one of the easiest products to find. There is no need to use a baby shampoo on a baby. Use a biodegradable one. If it can’t harm the earth, how will hurt your baby ? Shampoo/conditioner/body washes like often have much healthier ingredients than the typical baby products.
Laundry detergent
http://www.seventhgeneration.com/ – biodegradable. Although here is an article comparing several brands: http://grist.org/article/its-a-wash/
http://www.ecos.com – biodegradable
There are lots of brands that are biodegradable. Again, no need to buy a “baby detergent”. All they are claiming is to be gentle. What could be more gentle than a biodegradable product?
Baby products
Keep in mind that car seats, strollers, swings, etc. can all be reused. If your friend already had a kid, use their old gear. There is no need to buy everything new. If the items have not been damaged, it’s just wasteful for everyone to buy them. And, of course, don’t forget to recycle your baby gear when you are done with it. Left over diapers (unused of course), clothes, etc. Give it to a friend or Goodwill.
