TIPS for a safe shopping experience

• Look to avoid items made with plastic where possible and opt for glass, bamboo or stainless steel.   

• If buying plastic, avoid those with number “3” or “7” recycling number at the bottom as these contain phthalates and BPA.  Instead, opt for bottles made of Polyethersulfone (PES) plastic which is free of these harmful by-products.

• Avoid putting plastic in the dishware and microwave (although some plastic products will indicate that it is safe to do so, there is still a chance of potential leaching from by-products).   Look to warm up baby bottles and baby food by using warm water or placing them in a baby bottle warmer.

• If using ceramic dishware, ensure that the paint used does not contain lead.

• Opt for a gentle, natural and/or organic dishwashing liquid/detergent to clean baby’s dishware and bottles.  Rinse using hot tap water to ensure they are disinfected properly.  

• Avoid bath wash, bubble bath and shampoo products with harsh chemicals and preservatives such as parabens, sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium chloride. Please refer to the “Toxic Terms” section of our website for a full reference guide on these ingredients.

• Opt for certified organic products where possible – these ensure no pesticides or fertilizers have leached into the product during the processing phase.  

• Opt for soaps and moisturizers made from vegetable or olive oils instead of animal or minerals oils.  These are more gentle on baby's skin and have a smaller chance of causing a reaction or allergy.

• Clean baby’s diaper area with a washcloth and water or purchase gentle baby wipes based in water and free from chlorine and other harsh chemicals.

• Look for certified organic towels and washcloths – these ensure that no harmful pesticides, herbicide and fertilizers will leach out of the fabric during laundering.

• Look for items made with natural materials such as wood, and fabrics such as organic cotton and hemp. Ensure that the resin, paint or dye used is non-toxic and lead free.

• Purchase toys from trusted sources and be sure to ask where it was made and what type of paint was used (if not indicated on the packaging).

• Avoid plastic teethers and toys if possible, especially those with the number”3” or “7” recycling number on the bottom (these typically contain phthalates and BPA).

• Register toys with the manufacturing company. This way if a recall is issued, you will be notified promptly.

• Look for the symbol “ASTM D-4236” on craft supplies such as crayons to indicate that they have been tested and approved as being non-toxic.