Embracing Low-Waste and Low-Tox Parenting: A Guide to Get You Started

In the whirlwind adventure of parenthood, weaving sustainability into the fabric of daily routines becomes a foundation for your baby’s health. From diaper changes to feeding rituals, every decision offers a chance to nurture our little ones and the planet. With CaliWoods as your ally, let's embark on a journey of waste reduction, toxins removal, and sustainable living that's as practical as it is planet-friendly.

Cloth Diapering:

When it comes to diapering, we're all about going back to basics. Cloth nappies aren't just about reducing waste; they also harbour toxic materials. 

Did you know? Many components used in manufacturing disposable diapers, including plastics and adhesives, can emit VOCs, posing a risk for inhalation and absorption through the skin. A study in the journal Reproductive Toxicology tested four different brands of diapers and detected the VOCs toluene and xylene in all of them. Keep in mind that these could be against your baby's sensitive areas for days and years on end!

When weighing up the pros and cons of cloth diapers, switching seems like an easy answer that’s also easy on your wallet long term. Plus, with so many adorable designs available, you can't help but smile every time you change a diaper. To make the laundry load lighter, we recommend pairing reusable nappies with elimination communication/EC techniques (which we talk about in more detail below). 

Reusable Wet Wipes:

When choosing baby wipes, it's essential to be mindful of the ingredients they contain. Many conventional wipes contain harmful chemicals and toxins that can pose serious risks to your baby's health. Fragrances, for example, are often comprised of undisclosed chemicals, including allergens, hormone disruptors, and carcinogens. Similarly, phthalates, parabens, and phenoxyethanol are commonly found in fragranced wipes and have been linked to a range of health issues, from hormonal disruption to skin irritation.

To make safer choices for your baby, opt for fragrance-free wipes and avoid ingredients ending in -paraben or containing phenoxyethanol. Additionally, steer clear of wipes containing cocamidopropyl betaine and propylene glycol, which can cause allergic reactions and skin irritation.

Being vigilant about checking labels for these harmful ingredients and prioritising reusable products that consider your baby's health and well-being is a fantastic first step. By making informed choices, you can create a safer, healthier environment for your little one to thrive in.

Our Reusable Wet Wipes, crafted from organic cotton, are a little luxury for your baby's skin without irritants, chemicals, and fragrance. And the best part? You're not just reducing toxins; you're also reducing your waste by using a reusable product. Great for toddler's hands, bottoms, spew cloths...the list goes on!

Organic Capsule Closet:

Ah, the closet—a treasure trove of memories waiting to be made. But who says sustainability can't be stylish? Our capsule closet approach encourages investing in quality, organically made, timeless pieces that can be passed down from sibling to sibling or friend to friend. Plus, shopping second-hand adds a touch of history to your little one's wardrobe.

When looking for your baby’s clothes, choose organic and non-toxic clothing for babies to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals and dyes. Organic cotton clothing is free from pesticides and synthetic fertilisers, making it a safer and more sustainable option for your little one's delicate skin. Look for GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certified clothing for added assurance. We love getting Nature Baby items off second-hand marketplaces (and they have a great re-sell value too!). 

Zero Waste Feeding:

Mealtime is more than just nourishment; it's a chance to connect with your little one and instil healthy habits for life. That's why we're all about zero waste, whole food healthy feeding. From Stainless Steel Toddler or Baby Bottles to silicone baby food pouches, our toddler and baby feeding essentials make mealtime a breeze while minimising plastic waste and chemical exposure.

Embrace Elimination Communication (EC):

Let's talk about potty training, shall we? EC, or Elimination Communication, is like a secret language between you and your baby. You'll be amazed at how quickly they catch on by tuning into their cues and rhythms. It reduces diaper usage, reduces the aforementioned chemical exposure, and can foster a deeper bond between you and your little one.

We have plenty of information about Elimination Communication on our blog, our EC Handbook, and our Sustainable Babies of NZ Facebook Group, for more discussion. 

Navigating Challenges and Hurdles:

Embracing a low-tox, low-waste lifestyle comes with challenges, especially in the beginning. Here are three common hurdles you might encounter and tips on how to overcome them:

1. Information Overload: With so much information available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. You start seeing chemicals everywhere! Tip: Begin with small changes. Focus on one aspect at a time, such as switching out cleaning products or personal care items. Take it step by step, and don't pressure yourself to do everything at once.
2. Resistance from Family and Friends: Not everyone in your circle may understand or support your new journey. Tip: Share your reasons for making these changes and the benefits you've experienced. Lead by example and invite them to join you on certain swaps or activities, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.
3. Budget Constraints: Transitioning to low-tox products can sometimes be perceived as expensive, but stopping the influx of disposables and replacing them with reusable products has a long-term positive effect. Tip: Prioritise and budget wisely. Start with essential swaps that have the most significant impact on your health and the environment. Look for DIY alternatives or shop during sales and discounts. Remember, investing in yours famillies health and the planet is priceless in the long run.

Join the Community:

Ready to take the plunge into living more in line with nature? Ready to embrace your best low-tox, low-waste life? You're not alone. Join us as we pave the way for a healthier, happier future for our children and the planet. Explore our range of low-tox products and resources to kickstart your journey to a greener, more sustainable lifestyle.

Next Steps - Blogs to Read: 

• Love Sustainability but Sick of Hearing About It? 
• The Sustainable Parenting Toolkit
• Elimination Communications FAQ - The Basics