Everything new parents need to know about choosing safe products for baby—from diapers to skincare to nursery essentials.
Preparing for a baby is overwhelming enough without worrying about hidden toxins in every product. But with babies' developing systems being particularly vulnerable to chemical exposure, building a non-toxic registry is one of the best gifts you can give your little one.
This guide breaks down exactly what to look for (and avoid) in each product category, with specific brand recommendations that have been tested and verified as safe.
Focus your budget on items with prolonged skin contact (diapers, clothing, mattress) and items that go in baby's mouth (bottles, teethers).
Wood furniture and metal items age well. Avoid used mattresses, car seats, and soft plastics (which degrade over time).
Babies don't need specialized products for everything. Plain water and a washcloth work great for most cleaning needs.
Building a non-toxic baby registry doesn't mean you need to spend a fortune or stress over every single item. Focus on the products your baby will use most frequently and have the most contact with, and do the best you can within your budget.
Remember: creating a completely chemical-free environment is impossible, but reducing exposure to known harmful substances gives your baby the healthiest start possible.