In 2019, our family welcomed our first baby, a girl. Then in 2021, we welcomed our second baby girl. Those that have known me a while, are familiar that I can be quite the hippy when it comes to clean and non-toxic items. My health journey started in 2011 where I started switching all my skincare, haircare, and makeup products to only clean and non-toxic ingredients. As the years went by, I switched to other non-toxic things such as clothes. Any new clothes purchases I made, I try to make sure they were only made of natural fibers.
When I was pregnant with my first, I wanted to start that non-toxic journey for them at an early age. Through my years of nannying, listening to advice from my mom friends or family, and googling, I had a pretty good idea of what I needed and wanted on my baby registry. When I was pregnant with my second, I changed a few things here and there but my overall standards remained the same. I know that every mom has different standards and preferences, but if you need some inspiration to get started, keep reading to learn my favorite items.
I prefer to use Amazon for my registries because I love the ease of the app as a prime member. I also love that I can link items from other websites and not worry about people marking items as bought if they didn’t actually buy it like on babylist.
My Standards
I based these standards after having two kids to make sure the products I choose didn’t have any harmful SVOCs/VOCs, PFAs (think chemicals to make products non-stick like Teflon), synthetic fibers or flame retardants, formaldehyde, or any other harmful chemicals that are toxic to our health like fragrance.
Products I will be discussing:
Clothing
Diapering (Diapers, Wipes, Changing Pads, Bags)
Bathtime (Shampoo, Toys)
Bedding (Mattress, Crib, Sleepsacks, Pack n Play)
Playtime
Baby Gear (Carseat, Stroller, Bouncers, Carriers)
Feeding (High Chair, Bottles)
First Aid
Postpartum
Miscellaneous Items
I also try to get by with just the basics as I get too overwhelmed with clutter. So, without further ado, let’s dive in.
My Baby Registry
Clothing
1. Jamie Kay
2. Hannah Anderson
3. Kate Quinn
4. Consignment Shops (Once Upon A Child)
5. Etsy
I prefer to stick to 100% cotton or wool for baby clothes since their skin can be so sensitive and still developing while they are young. Although I have two girls, I think if I had boys, I would still shop in the same places. Some of my favorite brands are Jamie Kay, Hannah Anderson, and Kate Quinn. I also love going to local consignments shops and events similar to Once Upon A Child. Once Upon A Child is a retail store that buys and sells gently used kids’ clothing, shoes, toys and baby gear, so you can recycle your children’s nearly new items and get paid on the spot. With how fast kids grow out of clothes, I didn’t want to worry about their clothes getting dirty or ripped while playing. I just make sure to keep an eye out for clothes with natural fibers.
Regarding specific types of clothes, I think it personally depends on your style. I will note that I personally don’t think socks and mittens are needed in the early stages. Instead, I would opt for sleepers with fold over cuffs to keep things minimal or tights. I can be a little OCD at times and prefer things lined up straight but I had to make exceptions where needed. For example, we used the kimono/side button style for my older daughter during the newborn stage because she hated clothes going over her head and most days, it wasn’t worth the fight. Also, I know zippers vs snaps is a big debate with most moms. I personally like the snaps for the look and the fact that my husband accidentally zipped up a little bit of skin on my daughter once definitely reassured my decisions. I do think people should have both on hand to test for themselves.
I do laundry at least every other day, so I didn’t buy a ton of multiple clothes in the same style since it would probably be washed within 48 hours if it got dirty. You don’t need a ton of clothes, but you do need enough.
Sometimes I like to splurge and support small businesses and local Etsy Shops for clothing. I have a few friends that make beautiful cotton, knit, or linen clothes for kids and I like to support them whenever possible.
Diapering
Diapers
For diapers, I like to look for chlorine-free, latex-free, dye-free and fragrance-free so it’s gentler on babies’ sensitive skin.
1. Healthy Baby
2. Earth’s Best
Both of these diapers do not have the wetness indicator line which I know can be convenient for most parents. However, with my older daughter we discovered after a month of trial and error with almost every “sensitive” diaper brand that she had a sensitivity to the indicator lines. After much research I discovered wetness indicators are made using a dye or pH indicator that often requires the use of chemicals like quaternary ammonium compounds in order to change color when in contact with urine. I also love that these diapers are white so they don’t show up when a baby is wearing white clothes.
Cloth Diapers
I used cloth diapers with both my kids but only if we were home and not overnight. There are many reasons people choose to use or not use cloth diapers and there are so many different types of cloth diapers on the market, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. The pocket cloth diapers I used are no longer available but these ones are the most similar to the ones I used that I love. They are made with 100% organic unbleached cotton and have different sizes based off weight. I tried using the all in one diapers with my older one but she was very long and had thin thighs, that even on the tightest setting on the snaps, I got leaks constantly so I switched to the pocket ones. For the pocket cloth diapers, I liked to use both cotton and hemp inserts. I always used 2 inserts, a cotton one on top and a hemp one on bottom. Hemp is slow to absorb but is the gold standard of absorbency, it absorbs so much. These are the cotton and hemp ones I used that are still in great condition after two kids.
Wipes
1. Organic Cotton Reusable Wipes
2. Made Of Organic Soothing Wipes for disposable wipes
Organic wipes can be so difficult to find especially if your baby has sensitive skin. I love using Made Of organic soothing wipes because they don’t have benzalkonium chloride like in the Water Wipes which can disrupt gut bacteria.
Similar to Cloth Diapers, I also used cloth wipes. I know wipe warmers can be controversial and may seem not as minimalist. However, I have never had a problem with mold since the wipes got used daily and washed often. I loved being able to use less pre-packaged wipes and know exactly what was used on my baby’s skin. This wipe warmer and these cloth wipes have been my favorite and have lasted well through both my kids.
Diaper Pails
Through my years of nannying, I’ve realized there are no diaper pails that would contain the odor, whether stainless steel or not, once babies started eating solids. I’ve opted to just use the Amazon Doggy Poop Bags to keep things minimalist and to not waste money. They are also great to keep in diaper bags when visiting friends that don’t have diaper pails.
Changing Pad
I have the Naturepedic Cotton Changing Pad and it’s my favorite. I love that I can simply wipe it clean and don’t necessarily need a changing pad cover for it.
We decided not to buy a changing table and felt it was a waste of money. We just used the changing pad on top of the dresser.
Diaper Bags
I was gifted a beautiful vegan leather diaper bag from my sister and its held up very well with two kids. I think similar to clothes, for diaper bags I would find one in the style you love that ideally doesn’t use any BPA, PVC, or lead. Lord Willing, we would love more kids and I actually fell in love with the Ayla & Co backpack, which I plan to get next. I love how organized it is inside and that it doesn’t look too much like a diaper bag. It also has a side strap and backpack option. Its a bag I see myself using even after we’re done having kids and being past the baby stage.
Diaper Cream
1. Weleda Calendula Diaper Cream
2. Coconut Oil + rinsing in the bath tub
My favorite diaper cream is the Weleda Calendula Diaper Cream for more severe rashes and when on the go. Its the best natural non-toxic option I’ve been able to find with the most amount of zinc oxide to heal rashes.
When I’m at home, I like to just use coconut oil for just about anything and everything when it comes to the skin. The key is to find a good unrefined cold-pressed or raw coconut oil, I also prefer to use this one because it’s in a glass jar vs plastic. Traditionally in Ukraine and most parts of Europe, there are bidets. So, with babies if they have a bowel movement, we normally rinse them in the bathtub with just water. Both my kids haven’t had any severe diaper rashes and sometimes keeping it simple works best.
Bathtime
Tub
Puj Flyte
The Puj tub has two sizes and the smaller one the Flyte is my personal favorite for the newborn stage and especially for traveling. The Puj tubs are mold & mildew resistant in addition to being BPA & PVC free. It fits so nicely in most sinks and takes up very little to no space.
Bath Towels
I love the Natemia Hooded Towels or anything that is 100% cotton
Shampoo/Wash
For any hair products, I love anything from Morrocco Method. Their Baby Shampoo is so gentle and smells so earthly. You can use the code SOPHIE20 for 20% off your order from Morrocco Method.
Toys
I try to look for toys with no holes and are either 100% rubber or 100% silicone. These have been my kids favorites over the years.
Floating Bobbers
Stacking Boats
Hair Brush/Comb
I have the Kea Babies Brush Set which is made with premium grade goat bristles that are soft and non-invasive for your newborn’s delicate scalp. When they are older or have more hair, I just use the small 100% Boar Bristle Brush from Morrocco Method which is what I use on my hair.
Bedding
Mattress
I think mattresses are one of the most important items when buying whether that goes for adults or for babies. It’s important to find a non-toxic safe mattress since your baby will be spending hundreds of hours sleeping on their mattress. We splurged on our mattress and got the Pure Baby and Child Mattress. It lasts a long time and has held up amazingly with our two kids thus far. I would read the founders story on her website if you have the chance to learn more, it’s such a beautiful story.
I also think it’s important to avoid mainstream/traditional mattresses. Not to bash any company but I know Newton is a popular option and if you are trying to keep things organic I don’t recommend it. If you do get the Newton, I just recommend airing it out beforehand outside in the sun if possible.
Bassinet
Your baby will likely not sleep in their crib at first. When we had my first daughter, we knew we were moving out of state two months later. So, we didn’t buy a crib until later. Instead we used a Moses Basket with a stand. I loved the story behind the founders of Design Dua. They don’t use flame retardants on their foam mattresses and their price point was very affordable too. It was the perfect size to keep next to the bed and use in the early stages. The rocking stand was my favorite feature, Especially when the baby started fussing at night, a gentle rock often put them back to sleep.
Lounger
One of my top 3 baby products is the Snuggle Me Organic lounger. Available on Amazon and their website often has sales. I have the 100% wool filling one, which sadly they no longer sell. However, after using it for both babies and letting multiple friends borrow it, I would still recommend them. They still use 100% organic fabric on the outside and for their covers, but are filled with polyester on the inside only. I would buy at least 2 covers. Both my babies have used the lounger for at least 6 months.
Crib
Since we splurged on our mattress, we opted for the basic Sniglar crib from IKEA. It’s made from solid beech wood and a great simple wooden crib that have lasted us through two kids with lots of life still left in it to be passed down.
Crib Sheets (2-3)
I like to just stick with simple 100% cotton sheets and this brand Aden and Anais is one of my favorites for multiple items.
I also use their 100% cotton Pack N Play covers.
Sleep Sacks (2)
Another one of my favorite brands is Woolino, a brand that uses 100% Merino Wool for their sleep sack. I love a lot of their other products too like their footies, onesies, and their socks. Their sleep sack might seem expensive but it lasts for longer than some competitive brands in addition to not having to buy multiple sleep sacks in different TOG ratings because wool regulates your baby’s body temp in all 4 seasons, so you don’t have to worry if they’re too cold or hot while sleeping.
Pack-N-Play
1. Nuna Sena
2. 4 Moms Breeze Playard
These are my two personal favorite options. I have the 4 Moms playard and I love it. I love things that make my life easier, especially if my lifestyle is already busy. This one has a one push open, one pull close functionality and is a combo playard, bassinet, and flip changer.
I used to love the Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib because it’s lighter but once I moved to Texas, I decided against it. Those that aren’t familiar with Texas, something to note with our soil is that it shifts a lot so majority of houses do no have basements. If you want a basement, you are looking at spending thousands of dollars to have a small one. Which in turn means, there is literally concrete directly underneath the floors. The ground is super hard on your feet and very cold during the winter and I did not want my baby literally sitting and sleeping on top of concrete. We experienced that first hand when we slept on an air mattress the first day we moved to Texas and my body was freezing from the cold radiating from the cold concrete floors. That is just one thing to take into consideration if you were thinking of getting that one.
Playtime
Toys
1. Lovevery Playkits
2. Wooden, silicone, rubber, or cotton toys
3. Board Books
Most of the baby toys I have are from Lovevery. My mother-in-law gifted us a Lovevery subscription for the first year. Lovevery toys are designed for specific ages and are all great for learning. Most of the toys are made from wood and are aesthetically pleasing. Most of them actually engage your child instead of just entertain them like a plastic, battery-powered toy would. *If you’d like to start a subscription, comment with your email and I’ll send you a code for $20 off your first kit.*
Babies don’t need much to be entertained. Besides the Lovevery toys, these have been some of my babies favorite toys when they were very little.
1. Cutie Bit teether
2. Sophie the Giraffe
3. HABA Toys
Playmat
I have the Lovevery playmat/activity gym. It’s durable and has lot of amazing accessories that come with it. The Gathre mats are also amazing for something more simple and minimalist but they are a little bit pricier.
Baby Gear
Carseats
1. Nuna
When it comes to natural, non-toxic car seats, Nuna is a standout brand. Nuna’s commitment to safety and environmental responsibility is evident in their approach to manufacturing. Unlike many car seat manufacturers, Nuna ensures that all of their car seats are entirely flame retardant-free. This is a significant advantage, as traditional flame retardants are often made from chemicals that can be harmful to both children and the environment.
Moreover, Nuna avoids using PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) and other waterproofing materials that can release toxic fumes. PFAS are chemicals known for their water- and stain-resistant properties but are also linked to various health issues. By steering clear of these substances, Nuna car seats provide a safer and cleaner environment for your child.
Not to bash any brand, but to help you make a good informed decision. I know the Doona carseat is very popular as of late. While the Doona car seat is often praised for its innovative design—essentially functioning as both a car seat and a stroller—it’s important to be aware of some significant drawbacks. Not only does the Doona car seat present several safety and health concerns, but it is also banned in Canada due to non-compliance with safety standards.
Safety Concerns: One of the primary issues with the Doona is its fixed angle. Unlike other car seats that offer adjustable recline options, the Doona’s angle is fixed and cannot be adjusted. This lack of adjustability has led to concerns about its safety in various vehicle types and driving conditions. According to Canadian safety standards, this fixed angle compromises the safety of the car seat, leading to its ban in the country. In Canada, using or importing a Doona car seat could result in hefty fines and voided insurance policies, making it a risky choice for parents. Babies are also not recommended to be in carseats any more than they have to for healthy development.
Non-Toxic Considerations: Beyond safety concerns, the Doona car seat does not meet the standards for non-toxic products. The materials used in the Doona are not explicitly marketed as free from harmful chemicals like flame retardants or PFAS. This means that while the car seat might offer convenience, it does not align with the growing demand for non-toxic and environmentally friendly baby products.
Always remember to research thoroughly and choose a car seat that meets both your safety and environmental values. Your child’s safety and health are worth every effort!
Strollers
1. Nuna Mixx Next
2. UPPAbaby Baby Vista V2
3. Umbrella Strollers: UPPAbaby Minu Stroller or Yoyo
For parents looking to create a healthier environment for their baby, opting for non-toxic strollers that do not use flame retardants is a crucial step. Slightly similar to clothing, I think with strollers you want to find one that is also aesthetically pleasing to you. I’m a bit of a perfectionist and I wanted a stroller where all 4 wheels were the same size as opposed to 2 small and 2 big. You also have to take into consideration your lifestyle (if you need a jogging stroller vs more city strolls). My family is European and in Europe, prams are very popular. I used the Roan Kortina 2 in 1 European Pram stroller and LOVED it. It is amazing for the price, comes with all the attachments and grows with the baby. The wheels are also amazing for more rough terrain.
Here’s a look at some other best everyday non-toxic strollers that are safe, functional, and free from flame retardant materials.
1. Nuna MIXX Next
Nuna’s MIXX Next stroller combines style, functionality, and safety. This versatile stroller is designed with a focus on non-toxic materials, including its fabrics, which are free from flame retardants. The MIXX Next offers a smooth ride with its all-terrain wheels and adjustable recline, making it suitable for daily outings and various terrains. Its high-quality, non-toxic fabric ensures a safe and comfortable environment for your baby.
2. UPPAbaby VISTA V2
The UPPAbaby VISTA V2 is a popular choice among parents who prioritize both safety and sustainability. This stroller is crafted with non-toxic, flame-retardant-free materials, including its seat fabrics. The VISTA V2 is designed to grow with your family, accommodating multiple seating configurations and offering a spacious, comfortable ride for your little one. Its sturdy build and eco-friendly materials make it a great addition to any baby registry.
3. Umbrella Strollers
*Note: this is something you wouldn’t use until baby is at least 6 months *
If I had to own just one stroller, I would either have the UPPAbaby Minu (one I currently own) or the Yoyo. Both of these are extremely lightweight and have baby bassinet attachments you can buy to be able to use them from birth. They are great for travel and easily fit into the overhead bins on planes. The Minu, which is the one I currently own is a one handed fold and unfold. Life changing if you have your hands full.
Bouncers
Another favorite baby item of mine that was a slight splurge was the Baby Bjorn Bouncer. I was able to find one on FB Marketplace for a very good price. The bouncer is super convenient, lightweight, compact, and easy to use. It was super helpful to set my babies down, but also be propped up a bit. It has a slight bounce to it, and it doesn’t plug in or require batteries to move, so no electromagnetic fields associated from batteries. I much prefer this bouncer over a swing, especially because it is easy to travel with as well. I just recommend you get the Balance Cotton one to insure all materials are natural.
Carriers
With baby carrying, I suggest opting for natural fibers and fabrics like cotton or linen. I used the Baby K’tan with both of my babies, which has natural material options. It was one of my most used items. Both of my babies loved being carried. There were a few factors I looked into with wraps/carriers in addition to finding one with natural fibers. I was also looking for ease of use, which the K’tan fulfilled. It does have some cons, the big one is that if you and your spouse are different sizes, you’d have to buy 2 different sizes, which can add up in cost. I was lucky to find one in my husbands size brand new on FB Marketplace for a fraction of the cost. But other than that, I couldn’t think of any other cons with it. Overall, it is super easy to use, easy to travel with, and comfortable.
I borrowed my friends Solly wrap (Boba is similar) with my first while still living in the Seattle. As much as I love how ethically pleasing it was, with that wrap, I had to apply it at home if I was going to go out somewhere, especially if it was rainy (which happened 90% of the time in Seattle). The other option was applying a 10 ft long wrap in the parking lot. The big advantage with the Solly over the K’tan is that it’s a one size fits all.
I also loved having my linen sling on hand, especially if you have a summer baby in the warmer climates. AKA living in Texas for me. My younger one much preferred using the sling vs the K’tan.
Structured Baby Carriers
The Ergo Baby Carrier stands out as a top choice for a non-toxic and natural structured baby carrier due to its commitment to using safe, eco-friendly materials. It is crafted from organic cotton and free from harmful chemicals, ensuring a safer environment for both baby and parent. The carrier’s design supports ergonomic positioning, promoting healthy hip development and proper posture. Its durable, breathable fabric offers comfort and minimizes exposure to synthetic materials
Feeding
High Chair
When it comes to feeding your little one, selecting a highchair that is both safe and non-toxic is a key consideration. Highchairs made with natural materials and free from harmful chemicals ensure that mealtime is as healthy as it is enjoyable. Two standout options in this category are the Sprouts High Chair and the Stokke Tripp Trapp. Both offer excellent features for fostering proper eating posture, but they come with their own set of pros and cons. I currently own the Stokke Tripp Trapp and I love it. I was able to find it brand new on FB Marketplace for a fraction of the cost. I think both options are aesthetically pleasing and I would have been happy with either or.
Here’s a quick overview to help you make the best choice for your family.
Sprouts High Chair
Pros:
- Natural Materials: The Sprouts High Chair is made from eco-friendly, non-toxic materials, including organic cotton cushions and natural wood. This reduces your baby’s exposure to harmful chemicals often found in synthetic materials.
- Adjustable Features: It features a 5-point harness and an adjustable footrest, which supports proper eating posture and ensures that your child is secure and comfortable.
- Ease of Use: The highchair is easy to clean, with removable and washable components, making it practical for daily use.
Cons:
- Footrest Adjustment: While the adjustable footrest is a pro for posture, it can be a bit tricky to adjust and might require extra effort to get the perfect fit as your child grows.
Stokke Tripp Trapp
Pros:
- Adjustable Design: The Stokke Tripp Trapp is highly adjustable, with a footrest that grows with your child. This ensures that your little one maintains an ergonomic position at the table, promoting better eating posture and engagement during mealtime.
- Durability: Made from solid beech wood and available in a variety of finishes, the Tripp Trapp is both sturdy and stylish, fitting seamlessly into modern homes.
- Longevity: This highchair is designed to adapt from infancy to adulthood, making it a long-term investment that evolves with your child.
Cons:
- Tray Compatibility: One downside is that the Tripp Trapp’s tray does not work well with silicone stick-on suction plates and bowls. This can be a bit inconvenient for parents who rely on these products to minimize mess during feeding.
- Price
Ultimately, choosing the best highchair depends on your specific requirements and preferences. Both options are designed to ensure a safe and comfortable mealtime experience for your child, making them worthy considerations for any baby registry.
Baby Bottles
I recommend any glass bottles with platinum or food-grade silicone nipples. Every baby is different, some babies will take to any bottle with no fuss while others are very particular about which bottle they like. I primarily breastfeed and used bottles once in a while for a date night here and there.
I always recommend the Bottle Bundle Box from Babylist. The Bottle Box contains five of the most popular bottles (nanobébé, Comotomo, Philips Avent, Dr. Brown’s and Boon) among most babies and lets the baby and you try out a variety of bottle shapes and styles to see which ones you prefer, before you commit to buying multiples of one bottle. There’s no Amazon similar alternative sadly but it is still the best deal. Although two of the options are plastic in the box, I still recommending getting it to test it and if your baby does like one of the plastic options, I would just buy the glass set.
Both of my babies really enjoyed both the Dr. Brown’s as well as the Comotomo on the rare occasion they took a bottle. Both had their pros and cons. They also loved the Natursutten one.
Dr. Brown’s vs Comotomo
Temperature Control: Dr. Brown’s Glass bottles maintain temperature longer and are easier to warm evenly compared to silicone bottles. The Comotomo wipe neck might also not be as suitable to certain bottle warmers.
On the go: Dr. Brown’s are more easier to store when on the go in the small cooler bags compared to the Comotomo. I can fit 4 of the Dr. Brown’s Bottles 4 oz in my small cooler bags compared to 2 of the Comotomo. However, the glass ones are heavier.
Breakage Risk: Glass bottles can break if dropped, posing a risk of injury or mess. I loved to use the Comotomo more as my baby got older and could feed themselves.
Easy to Clean: The Comotomo wide neck is easier to clean because it has less parts which makes cleaning straightforward
Choosing between them depends on your priorities regarding material preference, durability, and ease of use.
First Aid
Thermometer: Exergen Temporal Artery. I know the Ear and Rectal Thermometers are the most accurate, but if a baby is sleeping, I would rather not disturb them just to get a reading accurate to the hundredth place.
O2 Monitor: I highly recommend always keeping an O2 monitor on hand, especially during RSV season. This finger one is super cute and has always been super accurate for me compared to others I’ve tried.
Itching Cream: Living in Texas, we get all the bugs. This balm has been my favorite to relieve any itching.
Bug Bite Thing: Great to have on hand for any immediate stings, bug bites, or even splinters!
Kids Hot/Cold Ice Packs: These are super cute and great for quick little relief from bumps/brusies
Arnica Cream: soothing relief from bruising, swelling, and muscle pain
Homeopathic Cold Flu Relief for babies
Copaiba Teething Oil: Neither of my babies had serious teething pain, but this helped relieve the little uncomfortableness they did have.
Baby Nasal Aspirator: Great snot sucker and easy to clean
Postpartum
Donut Pillow: Great for relief for down there if you had a vaginal delivery.
Witch Hazel Pads: Great soothing relief for down there
Cheap Cotton High Waist Underwear: Ones you can wear and toss out when you’re done
Peri Bottle
Cotton Robe: I wore this to sleep and during the day 24/7 for a whole week
Good Recliner: After much trial and error, I realized I prefer a good recliner over a glider/rocker with ottoman combo. I also try to look for good wide chairs where my other daughter can sit with me while I read books to her.
Silver Nursing Cups: Great for soothing and protecting sore nipples
Healthy snacks and water nearby to have on hand. I have this 3 tier cart that I love and still currently use. It’s currently used for all things school for my kiddos now.
Miscellaneous Items
Burp Clothes: Muslin ones from Amazon
Pacifiers: Neither of my children took to pacifiers and I’ve tried several ones. However, the Natursutten and Bibs ones are my favorite.
Yoga Ball: Great for exercises during pregnancy and postpartum with baby.
Baby Book: Great neutral fun option, I have this one for both my girls
I hope this all helps and takes a little stress out as you prepare to welcome your baby. Let me know if you have any questions or feel like I missed anything. It took me HOURS to build out this registry and I hope it’s a fantastic tool and guide for your buying decisions. I hope to do a toddler non-toxic blog post as soon as I find another 100 hours to write and research.
Best Wishes,
Sophie
The Good Life 