We believe that an organic baby is a healthy baby. Organic baby products have experienced double-digit growth, as parents look for the most natural, pthalate-free, PVC-free products for babies. The most vulnerable population of all is our infant population. Although the impact of alcohol, prescription drugs, and tobacco on fetal development (particularly during the first trimester) has been well documented, fewer studies have been done on the effects of such substances as pesticides, household cleaners, and chemicals found in conventional baby care products.
Concerns about these chemicals in baby products have prompted companies like Sassy, Gerber, Evenflo, and Lego to eliminate PVC from their teethers and baby toys. Studies linking Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) with used mattresses containing toxic flame retardants have been conducted in New Zealand. When using plastic baby bottles and other utensils, it's important to know which ones are not polycarbonate (hard) plastic. Polycarbonate contains bisphenol A (BPA), an artificial estrogen which may leach into food when the plastic is heated. Instead, you can purchase bottles made of polypropylene(soft plastic) or glass.
Organic baby products are divided here into three categories: organic baby food; organic baby clothing and bedding; and organic baby skin care. Here, "USDA Organic" certification only applies to baby food.
You can find many all-natural and organic baby care products at the websites listed below, under each category.
Organic baby food
Few people would question the superiority of mother's milk over commercially prepared infant formula. The benefits of breast-feeding, both to baby and mother, are well known. A recent study found a connection between the level of DHA (an Omega-3 fatty acid found in fish) in breast milk and enhanced newborn development (Journal of Pediatric Psychiatry, Sept. 2005.) Breast milk is higher in the amino acid taurine (concentrated in infant brain cells), as well as beneficial antibodies taken from the mother.
I myself breast-fed my three children for the first few months after birth; they were happy and healthy, rarely missed a day of school, and today are making wise choices about what they eat (for the most part)! They were given cod-liver oil as children, and there was no soda in the house. I even tried my hand at cloth diapers (very briefly!). As for baby food, when the time came, I prepared my own. Making your own natural baby food is quite simple - armed with my Moulinex Mini-food processor, I would bake or poach meats, steam vegetables, and toss them in with a little milk or vegetable broth. No seasoning was used. My children loved it! Back then, our organic baby food choices were rather limited. Today, organic baby food sales were up 16.9 percent in 2005. There are more choices available now, some of which are listed below.
Earth's best organic baby food
This is one of the best selling baby food products in the U.S. It has been around for about 20 years, and can be found in major supermarkets.
Nature's One organic baby formula
Recommended for children 12 months of age or older, this formula is certified organic. Soy formulas are also available.
Most new parents are careful about what goes next to baby's skin. Today there are many sources for organic baby products, from organic cotton and wool onesies to receiving blankets, sheets and even mattresses. (For more on the benefits of organic cotton, see the article in our News you can use page.) Below are a few websites to explore.
BornFree baby bottles and cups
This company provides plastic baby bottles that are free from bisphenol-A, phthlates, and PVC - the most dangerous culprits that make up plastics today. They also sell glass bottles, cups, and other accessories. Some of their products are available at Whole Foods stores and at Babies R Us.
Pure Beginnings organic cotton baby products
In addition to organic cotton apparel, this website carries the Babecology line of baby bath products, as well as crib mattresses with no synthetic materials.
Under the Nile organic cotton baby products
Makers of 100% organic egyptian cotton, made using fair trade practices. We like the variety of soft, quality baby garments and accessories available.
Organic baby skin care
An alternative to the harsh chemicals often found in diaper rash creams and baby shampoos contain essential oils and herbs. A few websites are listed below. Remember that although organic products are "good" for you and baby, personal care products should be patch-tested in order to avoid sensitivity reactions. Some skins are just more sensitive than others!
With the exception of their Serenity balm, which contains small amounts of methylparaben and propylparaben (to be avoided), Bebecology products are pthalate-free and paraben-free.
Earth Mama Angel Baby organic baby products
This unique website contains organic products for baby and mom, including breastfeeding kits, oils and lotions that are gentle and effective. Gift baskets are also available. Both you and your baby will feel pampered.