The Importance of Natural Baby Products
Babies need extra care and attention when they are first born. New mothers need to be very focused on knowing when to change diapers, feeding the baby the right thing and gently getting their baby to sleep at night. They are careful to use only the best toys and baby care products. What these new mothers may not know is that dangerous chemicals can be found in even the best baby products.
No one should be exposed to dangerous chemicals, and this is especially true for babies. Chemicals like phthalates and other chemicals that make items flame retardant can be toxic and are linked to problems with brain development, the immune system and the reproductive system. Less dangerous chemicals can still cause skin irritation and rashes especially in babies.
There is little regulation when it comes to some of the most dangerous chemicals. While other countries do not allow these chemicals to be used in clothing or other items, American companies are free to use them. For example, lead is a chemical that is not allowed to be used in other places but there is little regulation here. Also, there is often no oversight to make sure dangerous products do not come into our country and make it onto store shelves.
More and more companies are starting to realize that there is a large market for natural baby products and they are catering to that market. Labeling is so loosely regulated, though, that it is hard to tell what is truly a natural baby product and what is not. The following suggestions can help:
- You want to look for baby products with no added fragrance. The fragrances often contain irritating chemicals. Also, when fragrances are added often they also add phthalates. You may only see the word fragrance on the label so you should avoid any products with this ingredient to be on the safe side.
- You should look for DBP, DEP and DEHP on any baby product label as these are all phthalates. Anytime you see unknown initials on the ingredient list, you should be wary because it could be a dangerous chemical. Look for products with natural ingredients you recognize.
- Avoid flame retardant baby products if you can. The chemicals used to make these items flame retardant are often dangerous especially for babies. If you want to turn a natural fabric into a flame retardant fabric, simply spray the item with a combination of 2 cups boiling water and 2.5 ounces of borax.
- Cloth diapering is a lot better for your baby than disposable diapers, which may contain dangerous chemicals. You will have a healthier baby and help the environment if you use cloth diapers instead.
Just because a product is meant for use by or on a baby does not mean it is safe for your baby. You need to be aware of the dangerous chemicals in many products and avoid these so you can keep your baby safe and healthy. The best way to do this is to learn to recognize these chemicals on the ingredients list of the products you use.
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