FLOR baby area rug above - FLOR products are made with renewable and recycled content and are recyclable at the end of their life.

Skip the carpet: Carpet fibers trap in plenty of allergens. When I was building a house one of the flooring experts we talked to said you can never, ever get your carpets truly clean, no matter how powerful a cleaning machine you rent. A better choice is to choose a sustainable wood floor. If wood floors sound chilly, you can also get an area rug. Many are being made with postconsumer materials nowadays and you can clean these much easier than attached carpet.

Skip the wallpaper: Most wallpaper contains PVC. Your choices – go with a low to no VOC paint, choose some fun non-toxic wall decals, or head to MOD GREEN POD - one of the few companies making toxic free wallpaper.

Skip the plastic blinds: First of all if you’ve got another choice than plastic why not choose it? Secondly, I think plastic blinds look tacky. Better than plastic blind choices include certified organic textiles, hemp curtains, shades made from paper, reeds, bamboo and other grasses, and FSC-certified wooden blinds and shutters. Be sure to look for coverings made with non-toxic finishes and low impact inks as well. Read more about eco-friendly window coverings.

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What we do know based on studies is that BPA leeches out of many a baby bottle that contains it; especially once you heat those bottles up (say in the dishwasher). The best choice is to avoid BPA until we clearly know the effect it has on our own bodies and our kids bodies. With that in mind, here are some BPA-free baby bottles you can choose…

• Momo
• Born Free
• Green to Grow
• Mam
• Evenflo
• Dr. Browns
• Thinkbaby
• Lifefactory
• Weil Baby
• Nature Pure

[image via Momo]

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The kit is pretty much a one-stop deal covering the planning stages of a green baby shower all the way up to the actual event with topics such as invites, location, food and drink ideas, party games, decorations, hosting supplies, and green gifts for mama, baby, and guests. Rounding out the guide is a nice eco-friendly birth & first year rituals section.

Below are a few examples of some of the many tips that the Tiny Footprints kit offers…

• Give sustainable party favors such as locally sourced goodies like organic beer, sustainable wine, honey, beeswax candles, vegetable soaps and so on.
• Baby and mama gifts should be sustainable and healthy for example, organic cotton clothing over conventional cotton and sustainable wooden toys over plastics.
• One eco baby shower activity suggested is to have guests decorate organic cotton unbleached baby onesies with non-toxic fabric paint and stamps.

Since the Tiny Footprints kit is Oregon based some of the location and gift ideas are specific to the area, but overall, this kit is packed with ideas that anyone, anywhere can use to green their baby shower. Plus, FREE is the best price ever for so much info. Visit the Tiny Footprints kit online.

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gDiapers are a unique diaper hybrid in that they’re reusable, flushable and compostable. They’re composed of three elements a washable outer cotton layer (the little G pant) which comes in all sorts of cool designs and colors, a washable waterproof inner layer, and a flushable absorbing insert.

The insert works to absorb liquids, and to manage this contains SAP, that possible toxin I mentioned in the Non-Biodegradable Eco-Disposable Diapers post. gDiaper of course takes the approach that SAP is non-toxic and safe, but the verdict is still out on that one.  Still, because it’s compostable, this is a greener option than disposable diapers and meets the leery of cloth diaper users half way.

You really should check around before using these though. I’ve heard plenty of mixed reviews. Love, hate, and all sorts of in-between opinions abound. Plus gDiapers cost more than other disposable alternatives.

Learn more:

See an in-depth review of gDiapers.

If you want to hear what dozens of mamas think of gDiapers check out Green Baby Guide. They asked and boy did readers talk… and talk… and talk!

Visit gDiapers to learn more.

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There’s a large array of all-in-one type cloth diapers for those who don’t want to go the prefold route. These diapers are completely reusable, include some sort of side attachable i.e. Velcro or snaps, and don’t need to be folded because they come ready to wear. Basically you buy a diaper, put it on your baby, take it off, wash it, repeat. The image above, of a Bum Genius all-in-one, is a good basic example of what a diaper like this includes.

Overall these are likely almost the most eco-friendly choice you can make. I say almost because prefold win on reuse. Once you’re done using prefolds you can use them as cleaning rags, while these shaped cloth diapers won’t work as well in that respect. However, all-in-one cloth diapers are still long lasting (through more than one baby) and are a super green choice.

Variations on all-in-ones: You can find all-in-one cloth diapers in fabrics like organic cotton, regular cotton, bamboo, and hemp. They also come in a wide array of great colors and designs and are even available in swimming styles for littles who like to hit the beach or pool. They come with a variety of closures but never pins. Some have extra inserts to make them less likely to leak, and some you can get covers for to change the look.

• Gro Baby
• BumGenius
• Bumkins
• Thirsties
• SposoEasy
• Kushies
• Bottombumpers

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Basically, these green disposables are simply made without chlorine, fragrances, or latex, and some are made with eco-friendly wood pulp but many still have stuff like Sodium Polyacrylate (SAP); a gel that’s a chemical water absorber and is known to be toxic. This chemical was removed by the FDA from tampons because of its link to toxic shock syndrome but studies have not been done on SAPs affect on babies. Also these diapers contain Polyolefin (plastic) film.

Are there any pros?

Well, it’s nice that these diapers often come with fewer chemicals, and sometimes easy to recycle packaging, but they also come with a much heftier price tag for what’s basically a wee bit healthier regular disposable. Greener disposables sit in a landfill just like regular disposables and are a sad choice compared to biodegradable or cloth reusable diapers but if you want them they include brands like…

• Seventh Generation Disposables
• TenderCare Plus Disposable Diapers
• Nature Babycare Nappies
• Earth’s Best TenderCare Earth Friendly Disposable Diapers

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A prefold diaper has multiple layers in it which results in a folding of sorts – hence the “prefold”. You fold the prefold up and can hold the diaper on with a cover, pins, or Snappi. Flats need to be washed once before use, while prefolds need to be washed a few times before use.

Traditional cloth diapers (flat or prefold) are as basic as you can get BUT it’s a little overwhelming to choose the best cloth diaper for you. You’ll also need to consider covers, closures (i.e. pins) and inserts in some cases. Plus you’ll need to decide whether or not you want to use a diaper service or wash yourself.

For comprehensive user reviews of both cloth diapers and cloth diaper retailers, check out Diaper Pin. To find a diaper service near you (meaning someone who’ll pick those icky diapers up and wash them), visit the National Association of Diaper Services.

The debate against cloth prefolds (and other cloth diapers) is the washing. Some think it takes more energy and water than it’s worth. I don’t agree. I think the problem with disposables in our landfills is a much larger problem. But that’s the argument against them – just so you have the facts.

Something to consider is fabric. Prefolds are available in basic cotton and organic. Since your baby spends a lot of time in diapers, organic is the way to go so that you limit the amount of chemicals and pesticides touching his skin. Prefolds also come in hemp fabric, bamboo, and more.

People have some major opinions about the best fabrics and styles of basic cloth diapers. Before you choose a style, I’d do some research. Visit new to cloth diaper info; visit parenting forums and see what other mamas and dads like; ask your pals.

Prefold and flat diaper choices and supplies (some anyhow):

• Cloth-eez – available in organic cotton.
• Chinese prefold
• Organic Hemp prefolds
• Unbleached Indian Prefolds
• Organic Sherpa prefolds
• Swaddlebees Bamboo prefold cloth diaper
• Organic Prefolds Bummis Organic Cotton Diapers
• Tie Dye Chinese Prefold Cloth Diapers – cute!
• Snappi Diaper Fastener
• Diaper pins
• Diaper covers 101

You can also… Make your own cloth diapers.

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FIRST DO YOUR RESEARCH:

Green Mountain Diapers: Offers the best 411 on reusable diapers. From traditional prefold cloth diapers, to tiny newborn cloth choices, to cloth diaper covers; you’ll get useful info on all of them. The Green Mountain Diaper website also includes cloth diaper FAQs, reviews, and how-to wash guides; all perfect for a new user of cloth diapers. Our friends at Green Baby Guide don’t just blog about diapers, but they do often, so it’s a great place for newbies to reusable diaper options and other green baby issues.

Coming up…

GO DIAPER FREE

TRADITIONAL PREFOLD & FLAT DIAPERS

NON BIODEGRADABLE ECO-DISPOSABLES

THE HYBRID

ALL-IN-ONE CLOTH DIAPERS

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The newer Huggies Pure & Natural diapers from maker Kimberly Clark, are a perfect example of greenwashing – maybe one of the better examples I’ve seen in a good long while. First of all these diapers appeared on the scene right around Earth Day this year – which is a great time to lure in unsuspecting parents because everyone has their mind on green topics; smart move on Kimberly Clark’s part.

BUT maybe they are green. Let’s take a look at what makes these diapers an eco-product according to Kimberly Clark

In their press release, Kimberly-Clark Corporation says that Huggies Pure & Natural diapers are “A super premium diaper that includes natural, organic materials and ingredients to provide gentle protection for new babies, as well as initial steps toward environmental improvements, without sacrificing performance.”

The so called eco-improvements include:

• Hypoallergenic, latex and fragrance free.
• Features a breathable outer cover that includes organic cotton.
• The liner includes natural Aloe & Vitamin E and materials from renewable sources.
• The product’s outer packaging is sourced from 20% post-consumer recycled materials.

Kimberly Clark isn’t being all that sneaky in the press though, which I will give them props for. After taking a survey and seeing that moms want diapers with organic and natural materials, Kimberly Clark decided to make these diapers. They note that they expect that “Huggies Pure & Natural diapers will help the brand build inroads with those moms who are most interested in products that include natural materials to provide the best care for their babies.”

Robert Thibault, president of Kimberly-Clark’s North American Infant, Baby & Child Care business, says, “Based on the preliminary response we’ve received thus far, we expect the unique attributes this diaper offers will be well-received by moms and our retail customers, and will help drive incremental dollar growth in the category.” So, at least they admit that the bottom line is driving dollar growth. It doesn’t make it right, but I like that they’re being honest.

What I don’t like is that they’re also being shifty. They don’t print press releases on the diapers so all new parents see are the lackadaisical eco-aspects. Let’s re-examine the eco-aspects they’re selling to consumers…

• Hypoallergenic, latex and fragrance free – so are other much greener diapers.
• Features a breathable outer cover that includes organic cotton – Is it certified organic? Where is it sourced? HOW MUCH organic content? Well Huggies won’t tell us on the package so make up your own answers. Also, organic on the outside cover (NOT touching your baby’s skin) makes it a moot point anyhow.
• The liner includes natural Aloe & Vitamin E and materials from renewable sources – those renewable sources would be? Also, so what about the aloe (is it organic?)
• The product’s outer packaging is sourced from 20% post-consumer recycled materials – 20% is laughable. All kinds of companies make products with 100% recycled packaging.

Here’s what else they don’t mention:

• The ink used on the diaper: Is it soy or water based? Who knows?
• It’s still disposable. “The average baby goes through 5,000 diapers before being potty-trained. Because 95 percent of these diaper changes are disposable diapers, most of them end up in landfills, said John A. Shiffert, executive director of the National Association of Diaper Services.” According to Wired.
• It’s not biodegradable.

Huggies is not flat out saying, “This is a green diaper” but their campaign is selling them this way – the packaging is green and natural looking, the wording is sketchy, and many parents fall for it, which is what makes this greenwashing. For example:

• One mom calls these “new green diapers” in a review
• Another says these diapers are a good small way to go green
• Another mom calls them eco-friendly
• If you check around tons of other parents on blogs and at review sites like Amazon are calling this an “eco” or “green” diaper.

When I called Huggies I got some varying info. I asked who certified the cotton and one person told me that the organic cotton is certified but they weren’t sure who by. I asked about chlorine and bleach (I mean, the diapers are white so they must do something to them) and was told that a chlorine dioxide Elemental Chlorine Free process was used. If true, this is a more eco-friendly process than a true chlorine process, but is not recommended as an eco-friendly practice because there are better methods. Overall though the phone calls were pretty useless. I’m emailing the company and I’ll update when I hear back.

Later we’ll look at some actual green diaper choices.

What do you think? Have any of your pals fallen for this new “eco” diaper?

[image via Amazon]

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One adorable organic maternity tee (or more!) three I LOVE include the tees shown above, all are 100% organic cotton and printed with non-toxic inks. Available at Euphoria Maternity:

• Seeded Organics Boy Sprout Maternity Tee
• Seeded Organics “Green Mama” Maternity Tee
• Pure T Buy a Tee, Plant a Tree Organic Top

You know you want to keep primping during your pregnancy, but nail polish with all its toxic ingredients is a big no no. Nail Paint by PeaceKeeper allows you to paint your nails all sorts of lovely shades without having so many toxic chemicals pass through your skin to your baby. Skin Deep rates them a 3 -  really good for nail polish BTW.

Morning sickness is no fun at all. On the flip side, at least now you have a great excuse to munch organic candy treats – for breakfast! Organic Preggie Pop Drops are made with all natural and organic ingredients, with a blend of essential oils to soothe your tummy, alleviate dry mouth, and give you a quick energy boost – Preggie Pop Drops – Organic.

BONUS: Of course anything from Earth Mama Angel Baby is swell too!

Are you pregnant right now? How are you managing your green pregnancy?

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