We had a great adventure in Colombia, but it’s good to be home! I’ve been super busy with nutrition consulting since we got back, and haven’t had much time for blogging, but I was recently asked about natural baby products for personal care and hygiene so I thought I would share what I use for Jack.
Bathing
When bathing Jack I use Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soap – Unscented Baby-Mild. It’s basically a combination of water, and oils (coconut, olive, hemp & jojoba) – no parfums, parabens or harsh chemicals. The best part is you can also use it on yourself – I use it for hand soap and shaving (diluted). I buy a big container for $15 in the organic section at Superstore.
Laundry
For all our laundry I use ECOS Liquid Laundry Detergent Magnolia & Lily. It’s basically water and coconut oil with some preservatives and fragrance, but the scent is very mild. They also have a soap specifically for babies, but I buy this one because you can get the giant container at Costco.
Diaper Needs
When it comes to diapers I go back and forth between natural and not-so-natural depending on what’s on sale. I always put Jack in a natural, unbleached diaper for overnight – I like Honest Company and Seventh Generation*. During the day when I change his diaper frequently I use Huggies or Kirkland diapers. I always buy good quality wipes that do not contain any chemicals (Seventh Generation or Honest Company). Be careful of wipes that say “All-Natural” because they usually contain parabens – look carefully at the ingredients. For diaper cream I’ve always used Bert’s Bees diaper ointment or organic coconut oil, and Jack has never had a rash.
*Seventh Generation is an amazing company – they also have great options for laundry detergents, cleaning products, etc.
Lotion
I always put lotion on Jack after his bath especially in the winter as the warm water can really dry out his skin. I love Aleva Naturals moisturizer (available at health stores or Superstore’s organic section). Aleva has an entire line of baby hygiene products – I especially love their bamboo toy & pacifier wipes. I carry a package everywhere I go as Sophie and friends often get casually dropped on dirty floors.
Teething
Teething is a huge challenge for parents. It not only affects your baby’s sleep & mood, but yours as well. I have to admit that I’ve given Jack baby Motrin (berry flavor, no dye) when the pain is really bad, but that’s my last resort. I like to use homeopathic remedies as much as possible. Camilia and Homeocan Kids 0-9 Teething remedy are my go-to’s (both dye-free and sugar-free available at health stores or Superstore organic). I’ve also recently started using an amber necklace (Jack wears his as an anklet so he can wear it at night), and I find it helps. The theory behind the amber necklace: when amber comes in contact with skin it heats up, and the oils from the stone are secreted into the skin, and it helps with inflammation. Amber is also used for people suffering from arthritis pain.
I hope my recommendations are helpful! Please comment, and let me know what you’re using for natural baby hygiene and personal care products!
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