As a mom of four, I’ve put to the test several kids and baby products on the market. Right away with my first child, I made the switch to limit the amount of plastic and chemicals that my little one came in contact with. Plastics in bottles, pacifiers, and sippy cups can contain chemicals like PVC, BPA, lead, and phthalates linked to hormone disruption. Disruption in your hormone homeostasis (say that five times fast!) is connected to fertility issues, neurodevelopment and growth delays, and autoimmune disorders. Some of these commonly used chemicals are even known carcinogens.
Besides the health implications, I got tired of constantly buying and replacing worn-out bottles and eating utensils that didn’t hold up. I found that the less toxic products were made of more simple materials and durable. Because I wasn’t replacing cups and bottles an every-other-month, I was saving money (and cabinet space). To sum it up, investing in quality versus quantity has shown health and financial benefits long-term.
So, without further explanation, here are my top 4 non-toxic baby and kid products that you need to buy.
1. Glass Baby Bottles
Anytime anyone has ever asked me what my top baby product was – GLASS BOTTLES were my answer!
Like I said before, I made the switch to lower toxic products early on with my first child, and switching bottles was one of the first things I changed. I noticed how film and residue would collect after only a few washes on the plastic bottles. Also, I wouldn’t say I liked the idea of heating plastic full of milk in hot water. The bottles just got cleaner with glass, and I could use them repeatedly with multiple kids. I still have some Avent and Dr. Brown’s bottles from my first child (so that’s SEVEN years ago). I simply replaced the plastic parts and silicone nipples with each baby and was able to keep on using the same glass bottle. Most are still in such good shape that I plan to pass them down to family and friends in the baby bottle stage of life. And if you are worried about breaking or safety, invest in the silicone sleeves made to fit the bottles. These sleeves have saved the bottles from several drops on the concrete and tiled floors. Find my favorite brands that I have used and have lasted with four babies here: (AVENT, Dr. BROWN’S, MASON BOTTLE)
2. Silicone Bibs and Eating Utensils
These bibs pictured below were a gift I received from one of my best friends – and honestly, they have been life-changing! I’ve never used another bib since receiving these because they are that good.
The Mushie bibs are stain proof and so dang easy to clean – they also come in lots of cute, muted colors. These bibs are made of silicone, which is a less toxic option for kid and baby products. Soft vinyl or PVC contain chemical additives such as phthalates, lead, or cadmium that can negatively impact your and your child’s health. Food grade silicone is a safer option than plastic as it doesn’t contain any chemical byproducts and can be heated and washed safely in the dishwasher, oven, microwave, etc.
I’ve also fallen in love with these food-grade silicone eating utensils from Simka Rose. These cute little spoons are the best ones I have tried for self-feeding and baby-led weaning. Since we started solids, my twins have easily grabbed and used these spoons to feed themselves (and our dog :)) at mealtime. I love their simple design and durability. You can shop Simka Rose products on Amazon or here.
3. Stainless Steel Lunch Boxes
As a mom with kids who have food allergies/sensitivities, I often make packed lunches for school and preschool. My favorite lunch box I have used has been the Planet Box lunch box. These boxes are 100% stainless steel and are soooo durable. I’ve had one for a few years now, and it still looks brand new with everyday use. My kids love the custom magnets you can add for a fun customized look. Buy these lunch boxes here, and you won’t regret it!
4. Stainless Steel Cups
Another stainless steel product I can’t live without is stainless steel cups. Stainless steel is more expensive in the long run, but it’s recyclable, can keep your drinks cold or hot longer, and doesn’t contain any toxic chemicals (assuming it is 100% stainless and lead-free). I love the size and the feel of these Elk and Friends cups. They have been a perfect size and weight for my one-year-old twins. The girls love carrying these cups around, sipping water, and using them at mealtime.
If you want a cup that has been a “miracle” in preventing spills and stains, look no further than the Stainless Steel Munchkin 360 Miracle Cup. Its functionality and durability have made it a favorite of mine for ages – I’ve had one stainless steel cup since my 5-year-old was a baby, and it still looks brand new. My twins have enjoyed carrying this cup around too, and chewing/sucking on its silicone lid. This cup is also suitable for teeth development and overall dental health, so it is the go-to in our house for drinks for my youngest three kids.
Eliminate the toxins you can for you and your family’s health
Toxin build-up can impact your health in many ways, from hormone and fertility issues and gut and immune health; limiting toxins in your and your family’s life is a crucial step, but not the only step you need to take. Changing our lifestyle, eating habits, and thoughts and feelings about food and our bodies are also part of the process.
To get to the root issues of the health issues you are experiencing, schedule a free discovery call now. We’ll chat and see what services and programs fit best for you or your family.
