Browsing Tag:

ecofriendly

  • Healthy Home

    The Best 6 Sustainable Uses For Stasher Bags

    Stasher bags are functional, reusable, and eco-friendly.

    Made from 100% food grade silicone, Stasher bags are a sustainable alternative that seal tightly to keep food fresh, and comes in a variety of sizes and colors! Free of toxic chemicals like lead, BPA, PVC, and latex, Stasher bags can also be used in the microwave, dishwasher, and even in the oven, making them a staple in my home for years to come!

    Check out some of my favorite uses for Stasher Bags below.


    Disclosure: This is not a sponsored post.  This post may contain “affiliate links” which do not cost you anything. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Regardless, we only recommend products or services that have extensively researched; and products that we use personally, have used and would use in the future. We pride ourselves on honesty and integrity to our readers. Read Full Disclaimer and Disclosure here.


    1. Ice Pack / Heat Pack

    When I was on the hunt to find a PVC-free ice pack for my little one’s ouchies, I couldn’t believe how hard it was to find a good alternative. That is when I thought to fill a smaller stasher bag half full with water and lay them flat in the freezer. It works wonders for headaches and boo-boos!!

    Additionally, if your looking for a DIY heating pad, you can fill a Stasher bag with rice, heat in the microwave, and soothe sore muscles.

    Tip: Don’t forget – you can store Band-Aids and other first aid essentials in a Stasher bag as well!

    2. Food Storage & Toddler Snack Bags

    The obvious one! Stasher bags are perfect for storing just about any food item! Think: fresh fruit, leftover pizza, pasta, baby food, toddler snacks, sandwiches, nuts, and so much more! Best of all, they are compact enough to “stash” in your purse – making it oh-so-simple to bring restaurant leftovers home!

    3. Makeup and Toiletry Storage

    Over the summer, I went on vacation and used two large Stashers to store my hair products, makeup, and skincare items. Not only was this a great no-waste solution, but it was PVC-free as well!

    4. Waterproof “Wallet” for Phones, Medications and More

    This summer, I stored my credit card, ID, pool passes, chapstick and even my phone in a single snack pack Stasher! It was the perfect size and best of all was waterproof without the yucky chemicals. This is probably one of my favorite uses!

    And if your looking for the perfect size to store medications and more, check out these tiny bags.

    5. Toy and Art Supply Storage

    Legos, crayons, craft supplies, DIY playdough and so much more can be stored in these durable bags. Mix and match to create a colorful rainbow of fun!

    6. Beach “Must-Haves” Storage

    A wet swimsuit can really put a damper on your day. Store bathing suits, lotions, and other water essentials in a Stasher bag and reuse it later!

    Tip: To get the most use out of your versatile Stasher, pack it with snacks to enjoy at the beach and toss your wet suit in after the sun goes down.


    We hope you enjoyed these sustainable ways to use Stasher bags!

    Happy Stashing!


  • Babies & Kids, Healthy Home

    The Best Organic Matching ‘Mommy + Me’ Clothing & Pajamas 2022

    From the day my little girl was born, I knew we were a “match” made in heaven and I couldn’t wait to dress her up just like mama!!

    However… high quality matching ‘Mommy + Me’ apparel wasn’t exactly easy to find. It seemed everything I found online or purchased fit poorly and was made with synthetic fibers. Now-a-days, matching mommy and me styles have become more popular than ever – heck, they even have some trendy outfits for dad too!

    So without further ado… I’d love to share some of my favorite organic “Mommy and Me” brands with you!


    Hanna Andersson

    Hanna Andersson does it right – amazing quality, thick, breathable, organic cotton! Plus, HA has lots of colors and styles to choose from ranging from their stripe collection to seasonal to character favorites! As our go-to brand for Christmas jammies, I also absolutely adore our matching Minnie Mouse jammies that my daughter and I fashionably sport all year long!

    Made from |100% Organic Cotton
    Best for |Matching Pajamas and Winter Hats
    Price | Starting at $30
    Shop Hanna Andersson.


    L’oved Baby

    Ah … L’oved Baby (*insert heart eyes here*)L’oved Baby is one of my favorite brands that consciously crafts super soft, super comfy organic cotton pajamas for the whole family. The jammies are available in several colors and they offer a few holiday styles too, although the holiday jammies won’t debut until late fall. P.S. The organic cotton hoodies are some of my daughter’s favorites – perfect for cozy cuddles!

    Made from |100% Organic Cotton
    Best for | Matching Pajamas
    Price | Starting at $30
    Shop L’oved Baby. For 15% off your purchase, click here.


    Hope + Henry

    Hope + Henry created a line of chic clothing that stands the test of time! Mostly made from GOTS certified organic cotton, this line is affordable, well made, and has classic options for every season. Note: Hope + Henry offers clothing made from 100% organic cotton, conventional cotton, and blended cotton. Be sure to check the description depending on your specific wants.

    Made from |100% Organic Cotton (mostly)
    Best for | Matching Clothing and Outdoor Apparel
    Price | Starting at $30
    Shop Hope + Henry.


    Monica + Andy

    Monica + Andy has a very small “Mommy + Me” matching section and I desperately wish they would expand it. This is another one of my favorite brands for my daughter – the clothing is thick, durable and long lasting and I absolutely love all of the pretty pastel colors!

    Made from |100% Organic Cotton
    Best for |Matching Apparel and Pajamas
    Price | Starting at $30
    Shop Monica + Andy.


    Burt’s Bees

    Burt’s Bees makes so many cute, affordable options for baby so it’s no wonder they created a line of organic family jammies! While Hanna Andersson jammies are a bit thicker, beloved Burt’s Bees pajamas are sure to keep your ‘fam bam’ cozy this winter! 

    Made from |100% Organic Cotton
    Best for |Matching Pajamas
    Price | Starting at $15
    Shop Burt’s Bees on Amazon.


    Touched by Nature

    Touched by Nature is the most affordable, organic clothing line on this list and offers a variety of cute matching dresses and pajamas for mamas and little ones. Select men’s pajamas are also available for the dadas too!

    My daughter loves playing outdoors in these dresses and I love that they are affordable (especially when dirt and grass stains come into play)! In all seriousness though, the quality is pretty decent and they are comfortable (not skin tight). We ended up wearing these plaid dresses for our Christmas photo (see image above).

    Made from | 100% Organic Cotton
    Best for |Matching Dresses, Pajamas and Leggings
    Price | Starting at $9
    Shop Matching Dresses for children and adults.
    Shop Matching Pajamas for children and adults.


    The Company Store

    This year, The Company Store rolled out a huge selection of matching pajamas for the whole family – including your furry four legged friend! The collection includes festive themes, pretty patterns, and fun prints with lots of colors to choose from. Note: Not all pajamas are made from organic cotton. Read the description.

    Made from |100% Organic Cotton or Conventional Cotton Best for | Matching Pajamas
    Price | Starting at $32
    Shop The Company Store.


    Primary*

    Primary is an eco-conscious company that offers colorful, affordable, eco-friendly matching apparel and pajamas for the whole family. *Not organic, but I added them to this list because they are an affordable, sustainable brand against fast-fashion, that gives back.

    Made from |Cotton, recycled polyester, other materials
    Best for | Matching Tees, Long Sleeves, Coats, Pajamas
    Price | Starting at $32
    Shop Primary.


    Etsy

    Etsy lets you shop unique clothing, accessories, and other goods from sellers all around the globe! Etsy offers shoppers a one-of-a-kind items that you can’t usually find in stores – including pages upon pages of adorable ‘Mommy and Me’ outfits and accessories to fit your own unique style.

    One reason I like purchasing from Etsy is because I can often find handmade items that use natural fabrics without added chemicals. If you’re not sure what materials are used on a specific item, you can simply message the seller with any questions you may have.

    Made from |Varies by seller
    Best for | Unique items
    Price | Varies
    Shop Etsy now!


    Looking for more non-toxic favorites for your family? Visit the WhatMommyKnows Amazon Storefront for my favorite natural, eco-friendly products!


    Disclosure: Some of the links in this post contain “affiliate links.” It does not cost you anything. Regardless, we only recommend products or services that have extensively researched; and products that we use personally, have used and would use in the future. We pride ourselves on honesty and integrity to our readers.

    Full Disclaimer and Disclosure here.

  • Clean Living, Healthy Home

    The Ultimate Natural Gardening Guide for Busy Moms

    The tedious task of weed pulling, endless watering cycle, and quest for the perfect plant placement all seemed like a daunting task – especially with a 1 year old in tow. But, my need to clean up our yard, plant organic veggies, and enjoy the great outdoors ended up outweighing my distaste for the garden. Now, gardening is something I really enjoy! Not only is there something seriously therapeutic about it, but the reward of your hard work is pretty nice too.

    Whether you’re new to eco-friendly gardening, searching for safe alternatives to use in your little one’s play space, or just looking to for a few good gadgets to use this summer, this list is for you!

    In this article, we will discuss the following: Safe Planters for Veggies, Where To Buy Organic Seeds and Veggies, Natural Pest Control, Sustainable Lawn Tips, What to Avoid, and Eco-friendly Garden Equipment.


    Organic Veggies & Seeds

    organic vegetables and seeds

    Organic Vegetable Plants and Seeds

    As I looked near and far for organic-certified plants and seeds that met my specific criteria, here’s what I finallly found! Backyard Berry Plants (organic berry bushes – we purchased a blueberry!), Azure Standard (live vegetable and fruit plants for your garden bed), and Seeds of Change (organic seeds). I planted mine in raised untreated cedar garden beds!

    Organic Herb Garden Seeds for Planting
    10 Herbs, Plant Markers Gift Set

    This 10 pack value set of USDA organic garden seeds makes gardening easy! Not only can you grow these herbs indoor or out, but they produce pretty flowers as well. Includes: Chamomile Seeds, Lavender Tea Seeds, Lemon Balm Tea Plant Seeds, Catnip Seeds, Cinnamon Basil, Dandelion (not that we need anymore of these!), Echinacea Tea, Fennel Seeds, Marjoram, Peppermint Seeds / Mint Seeds.


    Eco-friendly Garden & Lawn Tools

    Electric Lawn Mower, Manual Mower, or Self-propelled Mowers

    Gas Lawn Mowers are known to produce up to 5% of the nation’s air pollution and according the US Environmental Protection Association (EPA), one gas-powered push mower emits as much hourly pollution as 11 cars! Wow. Imagine how much cleaner our air would be if we all used non-gas powered equipment.

    I own this electric cordless Greenworks mower and absolutely love the how easy it is to maneuver! Another highly recommended, but slightly more expensive electric lawnmower brand is Ego. Both the Greenworks and Ego mowers are ultra quiet compared to a traditional gas mower and best of all, you won’t be inhaling all of the nasty fumes. If you’re looking for a side by side comparison check out this article.

    Hedge Trimmer, String Trimmers, Dethatchers and More

    As for these tools, if you already have the Greenworks lawnmower, I’d recommend the Greenworks brand for any additional electric powered tools you need for your lawn. The same goes if you have the Ego mower. The batteries are easy to swap between tools of the same brand making for an effortless day of yard work! Ha! Recently we purchased the Greenworks dethatcher (we have warm season grass) and so far no complaints!

    Water Right Hose

    This AMAZING hose (yes, I said a HOSE was amazing), is made from NSF and FDA certified polyurethane rather than PVC like most hoses on the market and contains no lead, BPA, phthalates or other toxic chemicals. It is also extremely lightweight, making it super easy for my daughter to drag right through my newly planted vegetable garden! Ha! Water Right sells both stainless steel fittings (tested and confirmed by lead advocate Tamara Rubin, Lead Safe Mama as lead-free) and lead-free brass fittings. Per my conversation with Water Right, their ‘lead-free’ brass fittings contain less than 0.1% lead – the legal standard is anything less than 0.25% is considered ‘lead-free’.

    Options include the 400 Series Slim & Light Hose, 500 Series 1/2 Inch Hose, and 600 Series 5/8 Inch Hose, and the Professional Coil Hose in a variety of fun colors! Made in the USA.

    Wooden Trellis

    Opt for a wooden trellis whenever possible. Wood is 100% biodegradable and if you purchase a cedar one it will last a while! Avoid purchasing a metal trellis unless you know it is 100% stainless steel. Most are galvanized steel which often contain lead and other heavy metals. And as for the plastic trellis… I have yet to find one that is NOT made from PVC – the most toxic plastic.

    Stakes & Twine

    Wooden Stakes, Cotton Twine, 100% Organic Hemp Twine are all useful, natural tools to have in your garden. I use a combination of twine and wooden stakes to create a ‘tomato cage’ for my veggie garden.

    Gardening Gloves

    Hemp, Cotton, Bamboo or Natural Latex Gardening Gloves are your safest options. These cotton gloves come in sizes for kids too!

    Stainless Steel Gardening Tools

    This 3-piece trowel, cultivator, and transplanter set is a must-have for any gardener and is complete with wooden handles!


    Safest Planters for Veggies

    Untreated Cedar Planter Boxes and Raised Garden Beds

    Untreated Cedar Planter Boxes and Raised Garden Beds come in a variety of sizes and shapes. Non-toxic, rot-resistant and one of the safest alternatives that will last a long time! You can also use Pine although it won’t last as long.

    Terracotta

    Terracotta is safe for veggies, although you may have to water more frequently. Be sure to choose unglazed versions (as the glazing often contains lead and heavy metals). And remember… let’s help our environment by purchasing real terracotta rather than plastic.

    Avoid pressure treated wood (lots of very toxic chemicals used), galvanized steel (contains lead), and plastic (chemical leaching concerns).

    If you do choose plastic, choose #2 HDPE, #4 LDPE, and #5 PP plastics. Avoid #1, #3 PVC, #6 PS, and #7 PC. These can leach chemicals over time into your garden soil. The good news is, most plastic planters now-a-days are made from #5 polypropylene plastic. If the planter is scratched or worn, discard as it tends to leach more chemicals as the warm summer sun breaks down the materials.


    Natural Weed Control & Sustainable Lawn Care

    Hand-pick weeds.

    By hand-picking weeds, you are avoiding the use of toxic chemical pesticides and herbicides hence protecting your family and the environment.

    Use Vinegar, Baking Soda, Soap, Salt, Boiling Water, or Borax.

    Vinegar, baking soda, soap, salt, boiling water and borax are all natural ways to control weeds in your yard. When using vinegar be sure to choose the highest strength like this one that we use in our home.

    Corn. Gluten. Meal.

    Corn gluten meal is a natural way to prevent weed seeds from germinating. We apply once in the spring and once in the fall. This organic option is our go-to.

    Use cardboard or burlap as a weed barrier.

    Last year we laid old cardboard boxes down prior to planting and mulching. It helped protect our plants and keep weeds from creeping through. Plus, it is eco-friendly! Natural, untreated burlap like this one is another good option.

    Consider a Flame Weeder.

    A Flame Weeder like this one doesn’t attack the root of the weed, so you may have to use it a few times, but it does work for all types of unwanted weeds. Use caution!

    Avoid mowing the grass too short.

    When you mow your grass too short, weeds will thrive and overpower your lawn! As the saying goes, “if the grass doesn’t shade the weed, the weed will shade the grass.” Mowing higher also helps protect your soil and leads to thicker grass.

    Mulching around plants and trees.

    Mulching around plants and trees helps to keep weeds at bay, retain moisture, and improve soil conditions. Just remember not to put too much mulch up against the trunk of a tree or you risk decay. As a rule of thumb… mulch should be at least 5 inches from the trunk and no more than 2-4 inches deep. Avoid those ‘volcano mulch piles’.

    Use an organic fertilizer.

    If you are in need of a fertilizer, choose organic and apply in spring and fall. Although this is not necessary, we love this one!

    Water New Plants Often.

    When planting a new plant, tree, or shrub be sure to water it often (every day) so that the roots can become established. Tip: Stick your finger into the soil to check the moisture level.

    Test the pH of your soil.

    Clover and other “weeds” can become a problem if your soil is too acid or too alkaline. If your soil pH is below 6.0, add lime. If your soil is above 7, add sulfur. Grass loves a pH of about 6.5.

    Dandelions thrive in alkaline soil with a pH of about 7.5.

    Make sure the pH of your grass isn’t too high and if it is be sure to lower it to avoid dandelions if you consider them weeds!

    Clover thrives when your lawn lacks nitrogen.

    If you have an abundance of pesty clover, add nitrogen back into your soil with an organic fertilizer.

    Have a serious weed problem? Consider mowing twice a week until it is under control.

    The mower will chop off the fast growing weeds, allowing sunlight to penetrate the grass below.

    Rock hard soil?

    Add a layer of good compost in the fall or make your own!

    Aerate and over seed.

    Aerate and over seed very couple of years to maintain proper soil and grass health. It is recommended to aerate once in the spring and then again in the fall.

    Consider a Rain Barrel.

    You’ll save money by using what nature gives us for free – water when it rains! Check out this barrel made in Canada.

    Or just accept and enjoy the weeds!


    Natural Pest Control

    100% Neem Oil

    100% Neem Oil is a natural oil that keeps bugs like mosquitoes and aphids out of your garden. This 100% Neem Oil works great and is completely non-toxic!

    Diatomaceous Earth

    Diatomaceous Earth is an odorless, non-toxic natural powder that has many uses in the garden and home. This Diatomaceous Earth is our go-to for natural pest control that repels ants (and other insects)! Be sure to sprinkle a thick enough line where the pests crawl.

    Mint and Lavender

    Mint and lavender are two plants that are said to keep aphids, ants, and rodents away. Although, I’ve never had a problem with rodents in my yard, I do grow both of these seasonally! Keep in mind, mint will spread like crazy! So it is best to keep it in a container.

    Citronella plants

    Citronella plants really help keep away mosquitoes and other pests.

    Citrus Peels

    Citrus peels help keep bugs like spiders away.

    Cedar

    Cedar is naturally rot-resistant and helps to keep bugs at bay. Try using cedar wood chips or planters around your garden.


    Soil, Wood Chips, Mulch, and Amendments

    Untreated grass

    Untreated grass is an excellent choice for children’s play areas and your home! Of course.

    Untreated, uncolored mulch

    Untreated, uncolored mulch (Colored mulches often use unsafe dyes and added chemicals). We recently purchased some from the Mulch Center, but you can always check at your local store.

    Untreated wood chips or Engineered Wood Fiber

    Untreated wood chips or Engineered Wood Fiber are great options that are safe for play areas. We used naturally rot and insect resistant cedar in my daughter’s play space.

    Soil

    Soil is best when it is organic, so I always make sure to choose this for my vegetable garden – I don’t want pesticides or heavy metals where I’m planting my veggies! Two options I used this year, both OMRI Certified: Happy Frog and Whitney Farms (Disclosure: Whitney Farms is owned by Scott’s and in general, I tend to avoid products connected to Monsanto such as Scott’s, Bayer, and Miracle Grow are products I tend to avoid due to their connection with Monsanto). As for other areas, on occasionally, I will buy a less expensive organic or whatever is readily available. Living life by the 80/20 rule!

    DIY Potting Soil

    Check out Tippy’s Produce and learn how to make your own DIY soil!

    Rocks and stone

    Rocks and stones can add a beautiful hardscape to your outdoor space. A few things to keep in mind: 1.) Difficult to relocate 2.) Cost $$ 3.) It may be difficult to grow plants. 4.) Heavyyyy

    Compost

    Composting is excellent for your soil and can be done for free at home! If you don’t want a compost bin outside of your home, you can always collect food scraps in a kitchen composter, blend, and then use immediately in your garden! You can also bury banana peels and other scraps to add nutrients to your soil. Be sure to add “browns” to your kitchen “greens” such as leaves, pine needs, etc.

    Look for OMRI Certification

    When choosing soil, compost and other gardening materials, it is best to look for organic OMRI certified products. The Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) is an international nonprofit organization that determines which input products are allowed for use in organic production and processing. Search here.


    What to Avoid in your Yard & Garden

    Artificial Turf, Artificial Mulch and ‘Crumb Rubber’

    Artificial turf, artificial mulch, and “crumb rubber” can be loaded with toxic chemicals that off-gas year round, but especially when heated. Artificial turf/mulch made from rubber or recycled tires often contains neurotoxins like lead and a host of chemicals known to cause cancer along with reproductive and endocrine harm among other issues.

    Car Tires & Products Made from Recycled Car Tires

    Car tires (or products made from recycled car tires) contain hundreds of known carcinogens and have no place around children or in our garden beds. They contain heavy metals like cadmium and lead, mercury, acetone, and off-gas causing the chemicals to be inhaled by those on the playground.

    Avoid products with glyphosate and other “Weed and Feed” products.

    Chemicals in these products are hazardous to our health and linked to a host of diseases, health issues and cancer.

    Pressure Treated Wood

    Pressure treated wood uses toxic chemicals when manufactured that can leach into your soil. Arsenic is one of those chemicals. Although there are different ways companies pressurize wood these days, it is still something I steer clear of.

    Galvanized Steel

    Galvanized steel very often contains high amounts of lead and other hazardous toxins that you wouldn’t want around your children or garden. Use stainless steel instead. See Galvanized Chicken Wire below.

    Galvanized Chicken Wire

    Galvanized chicken wire is often used around gardens and often contains extremely high amounts of lead and cadmium, far above the acceptable level! Choose a stainless steel version like this one. Here is Tamara Rubin, Lead Safe Mama’s most recent post on testing galvanized products including chicken wire. In one example, galvanized chicken wire contained over 2,000 ppm of lead! 90 is the allowable amount in children’s toys (although it should be ZERO, in my opinion).


    Learn more:
    How to Improve Garden Soil with Amendments
    Chemical Watch: 2,4D present in herbicides
    Children and Athletes at Play on Toxic Turf and Playgrounds
    Artificial Turf: Metal Analysis

    Check out the WhatMommyKnows Amazon Storefront for more of my garden favorites!

    Thanks for reading!


    Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are “affiliate links.” Therefore, if you click on a link and purchase the item, we may receive a small commission. Regardless, we only recommend products or services that have extensively researched and use personally or would use. We pride ourselves on honesty and integrity to our readers.

    Full Disclaimer and Disclosure here.


  • Beauty

    Mother’s Day Gift Guide

    Mother’s Day is just around the corner! Being a mama myself, these are some of my favorite non-toxic, eco-friendly must-haves that mom will actually use AND love!

    1. Dry Farms Wine Subscription
      Dry Farms Wine delivers the highest quality organic, biodynamic wines directly to your door.  Free of yucky additives and lab-tested for purity, this is one gift your mom won’t be ‘wine-ing’ over! Choose your favorite red, white, rose, or sparkling vino to send as one time gift or purchase a membership for your mama this Mother’s Day! 
    2. Life Factory Glass Wine Glasses
      Life Factory’s glass + silicone wine glasses are perfect for summer backyard BBQ’s! These dishwasher safe glasses are free of toxic BPA/BPS-free, phthalate-free, lead free and made in the USA. I love that Life Factory is a super conscious and reputable brand!
    3. Big Dipper Wax Works Aromatherapy Apothecary Glass
      Big Dipper candles are handmade in Seattle using only 100% beeswax and pure essential oils, complete with a cotton, lead-free wick. Moms will enjoy the candle’s clean and soot free burn for 25 hours!
    4. Lorena Canals Basket / Tote
      Made of natural and recycled cotton, this cute 2-in-1 basket can be used as home decor or on-the-go as a stylish tote!
    5. Manduka eKO Lite Yoga Mat
      The comfortably cushion eKO Lite Yoga Mat is made from biodegradable, non-harvested, natural tree rubber with non-toxic foaming agents and non-azo dyes. The mat is 99% latex free and a great alternative to mats composed of toxic PVC and phthalates. I also love the thinner, travel sized version!
    6. Organic Cotton Knit Throw
      This ultra-comfy GOTS certified organic knit is perfect for snuggles with your little one any time of the year!
    7. Magnolia Organics Shredded Rubber Pillow – Queen
      Disclaimer: I LOVE this pillow! Seriously, though. It’s. The. Best. This organic, hypoallergenic pillow is stuffed with natural shredded latex – straight from the rubber tree – and is free of all petroleum products! The GOTS Certified organic cotton case is made without the use of pesticides, herbicides or heavy metals ensuring a restful night’s sleep for the tired mama. Looking for the icing on the cake? Add this super comfy GOTS certified organic cotton sheet set!
    8. Juice Beauty Green Apple Firming Body Moisturizer
      Plus Zoya Nail Polish!
      Juice Beauty is one of my favorite brands and one of the cleanest brands out there for makeup and skin care. This affordable firming moisturizer combines rich jojoba, shea butter and a brightening complex of organic apple, lemon and grape juices to leave you with silky, soft skin! Zoya Nail Polish is free of the top 10 traditional polish toxins making it the perfect add-on gift for mama’s with kiddos!
    9. Instant Pot
      Are you ready to make your life 10x’s easier and have less dirty cookware in the sink? The Instant Pot is a 6-in-1 appliance can steam, warm, and pressure cook your food up to 70% faster! The IP (as I like to call it!) is complete with a stainless steel inside which means no leaching plastic. Perfect for the busy mom-on-the-go! I even used this to make my own healthy baby food!
    10. Chemex
      Attention Coffee Lover’s Everywhere!!! Time to toss the Keurig. The Chemex carafe will change the way you drink coffee forever. This stylish glass coffee system is made from 100% tempered borosilicate glass resulting in a clean, fresh (plastic-free!) taste every time. Perfect for hot and iced beverages! One of my favorite kitchen items!

      BONUS BEAUTY ITEM!: Quartz Roller
      I love, love, love this roller! It’s perfect for reducing stress and relieving muscle tension. Plus, eases wrinkles and more!

    Looking for more ideas? Check out our Amazon Storefront!

    Thanks for reading!

    Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are “affiliate links.” Therefore, if you click on a link and purchase the item, we may receive a small commission. Regardless, we only recommend products or services that we use personally and have extensively researched. We pride ourselves on honesty and integrity to our readers.

    Full Disclaimer and Disclosure here.



  • Babies & Kids, DIY & Recipes

    Best DIY Edible Play Dough

    My daughter LOVES playing with play dough so naturally we’ve gone through quite a bit of dough over the last year. While our usual go-to’s are natural, preservative-free Eco-Kids Dough and Green Toys Dough, one afternoon we were feeling “crafty” and decided to make our own! Not only was it super easy and fun, but in a little over 5 minutes later we had soft, flexible play dough!

    INGREDIENTS*:

    • 1 Cup of Flour
    • 1 Cup of Lukewarm Water
    • 1 TBS of Coconut Oil (or Olive Oil will work too)
    • 6 TBS of Salt
    • 2 TSP Cream of Tartar (this makes the dough soft!)
    • Optional: Food Coloring – we used India Tree Natural Vegetable Based Decorating Color (no corn syrup or synthetic dyes and preservative free!)

    INSTRUCTIONS:

    Mix all of the ingredients into a pot. On medium heat, stir until a thicker consistency forms – it will basically LOOK like play dough. Place on a glass plate or parchment paper to cool. Then, add food coloring. Enjoy!

    P.S. I used our old Eco-Kids Dough containers for storage (eco-friendly upcycling!), but a re-usable air tight bag or container will work great too!


    Why purchase (or make) alternatives to the well-known “Play-Doh” brand? Isn’t it “non-toxic” as advertised?

    According to the Play-Doh website, the exact ingredients are proprietary (or what is also called, a “trade secret”). They do mention the main ingredients are water, salt, and flour and the compound does contain wheat. A 2004 patent revealed, that Play-Doh also contains a retrogradation inhibitor, mineral oil, a surfactant, preservatives, a hardener, a humectant, fragrance, coloring, a petroleum additive and borax. In my opinion, since we know kids are curious and love to put things in their mouths, these are not exactly “non-toxic” ingredients that I would be OK with my child ingesting. #FoodForThought

    *All organic ingredients were used in this recipe.


    Full Disclosure and Disclaimer here.