As a parent, you always want the best for your child – from the food they eat to the clothes they wear, and the toys they play with. However, in this day and age, it's not enough to simply choose what looks good or what's popular, but we also have to be mindful about the safety and toxicity levels of the products we purchase for our children. This is especially important since children are more susceptible to the harmful effects of toxins than adults. In this post, we'll discuss how to choose safe toys and products for your child, and the importance of toxic-free living.

 

  1. Go for natural materials.

When it comes to toys and products, always opt for natural materials like wood, cotton, wool, and natural rubber. Synthetic materials like plastic, vinyl, and foam contain harmful chemicals like phthalates, BPA, PVC, and flame retardants that can harm your child's health. Wooden toys, for instance, are non-toxic, durable, and sustainable. Plus, they are timeless and can last for generations. Natural clothing materials like organic cotton, bamboo, and hemp are also excellent choices, as they are free from harsh chemicals and dyes.

 

  1. Check the labels.

Labels of toys and products can be the simplest and most effective way to identify whether they are safe or not. Before buying anything, check the label for certifications like CPSIA (Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act), GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), and Oeko-Tex Standard 100. These certifications ensure that the product has been tested and certified to be free of harmful chemicals and substances.

 

  1. Avoid fragrances.

Toys and products that have a strong scent or fragrance, such as perfumes and air fresheners, might contain phthalates that are harmful to your child's health. Instead of buying products with scent, opt for fragrance-free alternatives. It’s also important to keep that in mind in the laundry room too, opt for chemical free detergents when possible and wool dryer balls instead of dryer sheets, as those chemicals aren’t best for baby.

 

  1. Look for non-toxic cleaning and skincare products.

Cleaning and skincare products that contain hazardous chemicals can pose a serious threat to your child's health. Replace these products with non-toxic and eco-friendly alternatives. You can make your cleaning and skincare products right at home using natural ingredients from your pantry.

 

  1. Educate yourself on the latest recalls.

Keep up to date with the latest recalls on products that might have been found to be unsafe for your child. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) regularly publishes recall information on their website. You can sign up for email alerts from the CPSC to stay informed.

 

In conclusion, making a switch to non-toxic living may seem daunting, but it’s a worthwhile investment for the health and safety of your children. Always choose natural and organic products, avoid products with synthetic materials, look for proper certifications like CPSIA, GOTS, and Oeko-Tex Standard 100, avoid fragrances, look for non-toxic cleaning and skincare products, and educate yourself on the latest recalls. With these simple steps, you will be well on your way to protecting your child from harmful toxins and living toxic-free.