Browsing Tag:

organic

  • 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.

  • Babies & Kids, Healthy Home

    The Ultimate Non-Toxic Baby Registry Guide

    nontoxic baby registry

    Creating a baby registry is fun and exciting, but it can also be overwhelming at times with so many options to choose from. And what might work for one mama, might not work for another. Below are my favorite Non-Toxic Baby Registry Must-Haves that are free of harmful substances and toxic chemicals.


    NURSERY

    Crib
    You’ll want to look for a crib that is Green Guard Gold Certified and made from 100% solid wood. Romania Furniture is my top pick! Made from 100% solid wood, this furniture is truly beautiful and non-toxic from start to finish. Stokke, Babyletto, DaVinci and Ikea all make good solid wood options at a more affordable price!

    Crib Mattress
    My Green Mattress is a newer noteworthy brand that I only stumbled upon after I had my little one. Made with GOTS certified organic cotton and wool, this mattress does not contain flame retardants, polyurethane foams, PVC, formaldehyde, perfluorinated compounds, or phthalates. We choose My Green Mattress most recently when we chose to update our bedroom mattress as well as when we moved my daughter into her new big girl room. And have been really happy since! Tip: For us, we chose the Natural Escape and for my daughter, we chose the Kiwi! Both are great, although many adults (especially my husband) absolutely love the lumbar support found in the Natural Escape.

    Naturepedic makes amazing mattress in general and is another great pick for baby! Naturepedic crib mattresses are made from GOTS certified organic cotton without the use of vinyl/PVC, phthalates, formaldehyde or perfluorinated compounds (PFCs), making it the perfect choice for your newborn.

    Crib Sheets
    Burt’s Bees Sheets are our go-to brand crib sheets. They are affordable, 100% GOTS certified organic cotton and come in lots of cute patterns.

    Swaddles & Blankets
    Snuggle Me Swaddles created this awesome swaddle made in the USA from GOTS certified organic cotton, which is large enough to double as a nursing cover too! Oliver and Rain also makes these oversize swaddles that are perfect for pampering your little!

    Changing Table Pad
    The Naturepedic Changing Pad is made with organic cotton and a food-grade polyethylene waterproofing which is one of the safest options out there. Naturepedic also makes a cover as well!

    Humidifier
    The AAP recommends sticking with a cool mist humidifier for your little one. While a warm mist humidifier is just as effective, it can lead to accidental burns and easily become a hazard in your home. This Pure Enrichment Humidifier works great and is easier to clean than our previous Crane Humidifier.

    Sound Machine
    If you’re looking for white noise to help your little one slip into dreamland, this soother by Dohm is well worth it!

    Rug
    Lorena Canals makes super cute, washable rugs made from 100% cotton or 100% wool. Artisans carefully hand-make each rug using non-toxic dyes and natural materials without the use on waterproofing chemicals, fungicides, or other toxic repellents. The backing of Lorena Canals rugs is made from cotton and natural fiber – unlike many rugs on the market that use a PVC or plastic backing. Clearly, I am a big fan of Lorena Canals! I actually currently have three of the cotton rugs in my home and plan on buy one of the wool ones soon (shhh… don’t tell my husband! Ha! Ha!). This one is currently in my daughter’s room.


    ON THE GO

    Stroller
    Bumbleride makes this amazing stroller that is not only non-toxic, but also lightweight and easy to push around town.  Made from 100% recycled PET, this is one of the best options on the market. In general, you’ll want to avoid PVC, flame retardants, and perfluorinated chemicals (PFC’s) in strollers and other baby products.

    Car Seat
    Nuna makes a car seat that is free of flame retardants and perfluorinated chemicals (PFC’s) chemicals! At this time, Nuna is the only brand that is free of both although I think (and hope) more companies will follow in the future. Although not all Clek products are free of flame retardants, Clek offers a few flame retardant free car seat options made from merino wool: this infant car seat and this convertible car seat are “registry-worthy”. This Uppa Baby Mesa Car Seat is also flame retardant free, although not all Uppa Baby Car Seats are. And lastly, this Britax is another flame retardant free option that we own.

    Infant Lounger
    This lounger by Snuggle Me Organic is perfect for infants! I highly recommend some sort of lounger. I actually never registered for one, but was really glad I received one as a gift and used it all the time.

    Travel Crib / Pack N Play
    The Baby Bjorn Travel Crib is so easy to pack up and just go, go, go! And I have to say, as someone who originally owned the Graco Pack N Play, this is 100% easier to fold up, plus it’s materials are safer for your little one.

    Lightweight Stroller
    This Maclaren and UppaBaby G-Lite are the two lightweight stroller brands I own and recommend, although I personally use the UppaBaby more often.

    Baby Carriers
    The Organic Ergo and Moby Wrap are the two baby carriers are loved by many, but to be completely honest, I used them each once, but I know I will probably use them a lot more with my next! Another option to consider is the Organic Bobo. Edit: It looks like they discontinued the Organic Ergo unfortunately, but I still think it is one of the most comfortable options out there.


    FEEDING & TEETHING

    High Chair
    Anyone who knows me, knows I absolutely love my Stokke Tripp Trapps! I actually have a few to match different rooms of our house and since we spend a lot of time outdoors, I have one in the garage too. Ok – I know that is a littttle excessive, but I just cannot say enough good things about them. Not only can your little one use it from age 0-99, but it also has been an awesome way for me to reach high up spaces.

    The Stokke Tripp Trapp is made from 100% solid beechwood and contains no harmful chemicals, BPA, or phthalates. I also love all of the gorgeous new colors they now come in!

    Bottles
    We used Joovy Boob Glass Bottles for my daughter and really liked them. They have an optional silicone sleeve that comes in a bunch of cute colors too. Note: I did have these tested for lead and heavy metals and the results came back as non-detect so they are a good option!

    Another good option are these glass LifeFactory Bottles with a silicone sleeve. If I need more bottles in the future, I will most likely order these because I love that they can be used as water bottles when your child is older so they truly can be used forever!

    Looking for a silicone option instead? While I highly recommend the glass bottles, especially if you are warming milk, these silicone bottles by Comotomo would be my pick if I were to purchase something other than glass.

    Bibs
    These bibs by Aden + Anais are literally the only bibs you will ever need. Made from organic cotton, they are large enough to last from infancy through adulthood! Ha!

    Burp Cloths
    Burt’s Bees Burp Cloths are my absolute favorite burp cloths and one of the first things I registered for (thanks to my sister!) You won’t regret it!

    Nursing Pillow
    Nook Sleeping Pillow is a lightweight, firm yet soft nursing pillow made in the USA of organic kapok. It is also naturally water resistant – total bonus! Holy Lamb makes an awesome organic nursing pillow too made from organic wool and organic cotton and My Brest Friend makes this pillow made from organic cotton that totally fits around your bod like a glove!

    Pacifiers
    Soothies are made from 100% silicone and were my daughter’s fave!

    Teethers
    Bannor Toys Teethers are made from natural, unstained solid hardwood which are then finished with an organic beeswax and flaxseed mixture. They have super cute options that are both wooden and silicone! I also highly recommend Sophie the Giraffe and this silicone teether by Comotomo. My daughter also really loved this organic cotton carrot teether which doubles as a toy now that she’s older! All of these options were used a ton by my little one.

    Plates, Bowls, & Cutlery
    Since we have always avoided the use of plastic when it comes to eating and drinking, my daughter used and still uses new Corelle (glass) or one of the options below for daily feedings. And if you’re wondering… we have never had a problem with our Corelle shattering from my daughter throwing it (although my husband did break a plate once!)
    1. Avanchy Stainless Bowl with Silicone Suction
    2. Avanchy Wooden Bowl, Divided Plate, and Spoon with Silicone Suction
    3. Brinware Glass & Silicone Plate and Bowl
    4. Liberty Baby Flatware Set
    5. Kleyanimals Stainless Steel Cutlery
    6. OXO Glass Jars (for babyfood and snacks)
    7. Stasher Bags (for babyfood, snacks, and literally anything and everything)


    JAMMIES & ACCESSORIES

    Pajamas
    My favorite organic PJ’s for babies and kiddos are: L’oved Baby (super soft), Hanna Andersson (durable quality), and Burt’s Bees (most affordable). Be sure to choose AVOID flame retardants that are found children’s pajamas! Look for the words “tight-fitting” and “NOT flame resistant” on the tag. Check out my guide to organic clothing for your little one here!

    Socks
    Touched by Nature has so many cute, affordable cotton socks for your little!

    Mittens & Hats
    While I don’t think mittens or hats are a necessity, if you are going to register for some, I’d recommend these by Burt’s Bees.


    BATHTIME

    Bathtub
    You’ll want a non-toxic tub for your newborn that is BPA-, PVC- , and Phthalate-free at a minimum! The Stokkee Collapsible Tub is a great option made of Polypropylene (PP) and Thermoplastic Elastomeric (TPE). The Boon Bath Tub is another great non-toxic choice that is also collapsible and simple to hang!

    Bath Towels
    We love GOTS certified organic Burt’s Bees towels! They are affordable, soft, and come in so many cute patterns like rosy flowers and little ducks! Another good option, includes these soft, ultra absorbent GOTS certified towels made in Turkey!

    Wash Cloths
    Again, organic cotton is your best bet when it comes to anything going on or around your baby’s sensitive skin. Burt’s Bees wash cloths are what we use and recommend.

    Bath Toys
    The Hevea Natural Rubber Duck is a great non-toxic alternative to typical PVC ducks. Plus, they contains zero holes, leaving out the potential to trap water and mold like many bath toys. Green Toys, Plan Toys, and Caacho are a few other non-toxic brands we love for bath time fun!


    PLAYTIME

    Play Gym
    The Lovevery Play Gym is my #1 pick and I wish I knew about it when I was creating my baby registry! These fun play gyms made by Plan Toys and Haba are also great for your little one!

    Rattles
    This wooden rattle is made in the USA of ethically sourced solid wood and uses organic coconut oil to create a smooth finish. It has held up really well too! Other rattles our little one loved include this wooden bell rattle by Plan Toys (made in Thailand), this clutching rattle by Haba (made in Germany), and this organic cotton rattle by Apple Park (made in China).

    Babies also love keys, but due to typical household and car keys containing high amounts of lead, please do not let your little one play with them. Here are a few safe key options: Plan Toys Keys, Kleyanimals (my daughter’s fav), and Green Toys Keys.

    Snuggle Buddy
    Made from 100% organic cotton, this snuggle bunny by Under the Nile and this little froggie by Apple Park are two cute options.


    DIAPERS & BABY CARE PRODUCTS

    Diapers
    If you’re using disposable diapers, you’ll want to choose one without fragrance and phthalates at a minimum. Here are my top picks:
    Bambo, Eco by Naty, Andy Pandy, and I’ve heard good things about Dyper too. For a while we also used Honest and they worked really well (although they are not as ‘clean’ as the other brands).

    Wipes
    Of course, you’ll want to avoid fragrance and any synthetic chemicals when it comes to wipes as well! We’ve tried quite a few brands including Water Wipes, but our favorite are definitely Eco by Naty. Second fav? Kinder by Nature.

    Detergent
    Harsh chemicals and fragrance are a couple things you will want to avoid so it is best to choose a free and clear detergent for your babe’s delicate skin (AKA avoid DREFT at all cost. It literally baffles me to know that this is marketed as a baby product!) Molly’s Suds, Better Life, and EcoNuts are what we use in our home.

    Baby Lotion
    Babies don’t really “need” lotion, but you will find times when you may want to use it, especially during the winter. Earth Mama is one of our ‘go-to’ brands that I really love and trust. This organic lotion comes unscented or scented (calming lavender and sweet orange) and does a great job moisturizing baby’s delicate skin.

    Shampoo/Baby Wash
    This is my absolute favorite shampoo and body wash for baby (and myself). Not only does it smell AMAZING, but is both gentle and effective without harsh chemicals or synthetic fragrances. Other shampoos/washes I recommend and have used/use on my little one are Dr. Bronner’s Organic Sugar SoapEarth Mama Lavender Foaming Soap or un-scented, and Earth Mama Simply Non-Scents Baby Wash

    Nose & Cheek Balm / Vaseline Alternative
    This nose and cheek balm by Earth Mama Organics is perfect for drooly chins, runny noses, and protecting your little one’s skin from the elements. It is free of toxic chemicals and contains no petroleum yet is very effective.

    Diaper Pail
    While I absolutely do not think a diaper pail is necessary, many people still opt to have one. The Ubbi is the one we registered for. I love that it can use any type of bag, plus it really did “lock in the scent” … until you opened the can!

    Thermometer
    We’ve spent quite a bit on various kinds of thermometers over the years. This one by Vicks is awesome. In just 8 seconds, it gives an accurate reading, plus it’s only $10!

    Nail Clippers
    Made from bamboo and silicone, these little clippers are my favorite. They are so much easier to use than the Safety 1st ones we originally had.

    Nose Frida
    I debated putting the Nose Frida on my list because I have yet to use it, but I know so many people who swear by it and say it is the best thing ever for stuffy noses.

    Hand Sanitizer
    All Good Hand Sanitizer is fragrance-free and our go-to sanitizer for germy situations.



    Looking for more safe ideas for your little one?
    Visit my Amazon Storefront and check out the items I love!

    As always, thank you for reading!


    Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are “affiliate links.” 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.

  • Babies & Kids, Clean Living, DIY & Recipes

    How To Make Homemade Baby Food

    Introducing your baby to food can be both exciting and scary. But, it doesn’t have to be! Making and serving homemade baby food is easier than ever and soon you’ll be on your way to filling your little one’s tiny tummy with delicious homemade purees!


    Essentials You’ll Need:

    Storage Options:

    • BABY FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS
      We love these glass containers by OXO and still use them for snacks both at home and on the go! Tip: We have them in every color and when we made baby food, we would store different foods in each.
    • FREEZER BAG
      Reusable, non-toxic, eco-conscious Stasher Bags (love, love, love!) work great!
    • ICE CUBE TRAY
      OK, this one mighttt look like a torture device that you found in grandma’s basement, but it works, will last forever, and it’s not plastic!

    Other Must-Haves:


    Homemade Baby Food Steps

    Step 1: Prepare your produce

    Wash and scrub fresh produce. You can skip this step if you are using frozen produce. Peel and chop the produce, if needed. Don’t forget to sanitize your work surface, your hands and all tools you’ll be utilizing too.

    Step 2: Cook

    While many methods can be used when making homemade baby food, we used our Instant Pot (on steam mode) to make all of my daughter’s purees. It was quick, easy and preserved the most nutrients. You may also roast, bake, or microwave produce as well. Once cooked, let the food cool.

    Tip: Soft fruits and veggies like bananas and avocado do not need to be cooked first. Hence, why they were some of my favorites to use – Ha Ha!

    Step 3: Blend

    Transfer to your blender or food processor. Create a smooth consistency by adding a little water, breast milk, or formula. Add a little more if it still appears too thick. Soon you will become a master of “the eye-balling technique”!

    Tip: We used the blender mode rather than the food processor mode. Both methods work when making homemade baby food.

    Step 4: Baby Food Storage

    Store your food in block glass containers, mason jars, reusable freezer safe baggies, or ice cube trays. Homemade baby food can lasts months in the freezer, but no more than 3 days in the refrigerator.

    Step 5: Reheating and Defrosting

    A night or two before you feed, thaw baby food in the fridge. Remember to refrigerate food in between to feedings.


    Looking for more ‘must haves’ when it comes to for feeding your little one? Check out my Amazon Storefront here! I’ve listed all of my favorite bowls, plates, cups, bottles and so much more under the ‘Eat&Drink’ section! Oh, and if you’re still stumped when it comes to recipes for your little? Check out this book featuring homemade baby food, purees, and toddler meals! I received it as a gift and loved some of the ideas!

    Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are “affiliate links.” 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.



  • Clean Living, Healthy Home

    6 Steps to Detox your Bedroom

    Although I always dreamt of a serene, spacious retreat, non-toxic bedding wasn’t something I considered as essential to making it just that. It was until I learned more about the manufacturing process and all of the chemical counterparts, that it finally “clicked”. Since then, I’ve made the switch and encourage others to do the same. You’ll be glad you did.


    1. Switch to organic bedding.

    This is especially important for babies and children who are growing quickly, sleeping often (hopefully!) and chewing on everything. But, as an adult, you too spend so much time in bed so you might as well not breathe in pesticides, chemicals, microplastics and who knows what else! We love these Burt’s Bees sheets for our toddler and Magnolia Organics have been our recent go-to for queen sheets. Other organic GOTS certified brands we are big fans of include Bioweaves, Whisper Organics, and Naturepedic.

    My Suggestions: Burt’s Bees sheets, Magnolia Organics, Bioweaves, Whisper Organics, Sol Organics, Naturepedic.

    2. Replace pillows.

    After biting the bullet and replacing my poly-filled pillows, I have to say, I cannot be happier! Knowing that every night we breathe what is on and in our pillow, I was thrilled to make the change. In our home, we have both 100% GOTS Certified Organic cotton pillows and shredded latex.

    So far, this is my favorite shredded latex pillow – it is literally so comfortable and best of all you can add or remove latex to adjust the pillow to your liking. Plus, I can honestly say, even my husband agrees – it was “lifechanging”! Don’t forget the organic cotton pillow case too!

    My Suggestions: cotton pillows and shredded latex

    3. Choose an organic mattress.

    Choose an organic mattress (no metal coils, if possible) made from natural latex, cotton, or wool. Avoid mattresses made of foam which often contain flame retardants and other chemicals like formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene. This is on my list of items to purchase next!

    My Suggestion: A few reputable brands to consider: Naturepedic, My Green Mattress, and Avocado Mattress. Naturepedic is a well-known brand that crafts certified organic mattresses and other bedroom essentials made without toxic chemicals and pesticides. My Green Mattress is a more affordable brand made from GOLS, GOTS, and OEKO-TEX certified materials! Avocado Green is another excellent option. Check back for updates!

    4. Choose furniture made from solid wood or natural materials.

    MDF and particle board often contains glue made with formaldehyde and other chemicals that are known carcinogens. Even many “solid wood” products including doors, are often just MDF or various types of particle board glued together. Cautiously, choose finishes, glazes, and stains as some can contain potentially hazardous chemicals. Expensive doesn’t ALWAYS mean better!

    Pro Tip: When choosing items that are not solid wood, it is best if it does not contain any added formaldehyde. Ask the manufacturer if the item is certified as NAUF (no added urea-formaldehyde) or NAF (no added formaldehyde).

    My Suggestions: Many items from Pottery Barn are GreenGold Certified while Ikea offers more affordable yet safer-than-traditional options and many solid wood options too!

    5. Add an air purifying plant! or Air Purifier!

    Among the many air purifying plants we have in our home, the Peace Lily is one of my favorites! I love the ambiance live plants bring to a room plus the replacement of synthetic plastic plants really makes for a healthier environment. According to the latest NASA study, these 18 plants are best at cleansing the air of toxins.

    Through my research, I’ve found the Austin Air to be one of the best air purifiers on the market. The AA system removes “bacteria, germs, pollen, animal dander, dust, VOC’s, chemicals, odors, and other airborne allergens” and has been an extremely popular option for hospitals during COVID. The Air IQ is another excellent option.

    My Suggestion: Austin Air or Air IQ

    6. Choose rugs, curtains, and blinds without added chemicals.

    Avoid PVC completely… and upholstered products with wrinkle resistant, stain resistant or flame retardant finishes which contain formaldehyde and other carcinogenics. When choosing wood blinds, consider the type of finish as it may off-gas chemicals.

    Rugs can release an abundance of nasty chemicals overtime and most rug pads are no better. Many ‘non-slip’ rug pads are made from PVC, which often contains phthalates, lead, cadmium, and organotins, many of which are known to cause cancer, liver damage, developmental, respiratory and reproductive issues among many things. Look for untreated rugs made from natural fibers (like cotton or jute) that do not have a non-slip backing. Even some backings marketed as latex are actually made from PVC. Check with the manufacturer if you are uncertain.

    My Suggestion: I love Lorena Canals Rugs, but be sure to avoid the anti-slip rug pad they sell which is made from PVC. Made from 100% cotton or wool, they are non-toxic, eco-friendly, and can be washed in your washer! We have several in our home including this one in my daughter’s playroom. Other great options include: Earth Weave, Loloi, or Organic Weave.


    Sources:
    https://www.state.nj.us/humanservices/opmrdd/health/pvc.html


    Disclaimer: Some posts on this site contain affiliate links. 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 Disclosure and Disclaimer here.

  • Babies & Kids, Beauty, Clean Living, DIY & Recipes, Healthy Home

    EWG’s Clean 15 / Dirty Dozen Guide

    The Environmental Working Group (EWG) created a list of produce that contains the highest level of pesticides, the “Dirty Dozen” and likely the lowest levels of pesticides, “Clean 15”. The information compiled is based off of the USDA’s yearly Pesticide Data Report.

    While I try eat organically as much as possible, it is advisable to always purchase produce that is “organic” if listed under the “Dirty Dozen” category. Conventional produce can be riddled with pesticides. Strawberries top the charts and have been found to have the residue of 22 different pesticides in just one sample.

    Keep reading to learn more about the ‘Dirty Dozen’ and ‘Clean 15’.

    EWG’s Dirty Dozen for 2020
    1. Strawberries
    2. Spinach
    3. Kale
    4. Nectarines
    5. Apples
    6. Grapes
    7. Peaches
    8. Cherries
    9. Pears
    10. Tomatoes
    11. Celery
    12. Potatoes

    EWG’s Clean Fifteen for 2020
    1. Avocados
    2. Sweet corn
    3. Pineapples
    4. Sweet peas (frozen)
    5. Onions
    6. Papayas*
    7. Eggplants
    8. Asparagus
    9. Cabbages
    10. Cauliflower
    11. Cantaloupe
    12. Broccoli
    13. Mushrooms
    14. Honeydew Melon
    15. Kiwi

    * A small amount of sweet corn, papaya and summer squash sold in the United States is produced from genetically modified seeds. Buy organic varieties of these crops if you want to avoid genetically modified produce.
    Source: EWG

    Hundreds of insecticides and herbicides are used when harvesting crops each year. By choosing to purchase organic foods, you are reducing the amount of chemicals you ingest, supporting ethical farming, and positively impacting our environment. Choose organic whenever possible!

    Learn more: Why Choose Organic.