Expecting parents have a lot running through their minds when readying for a new baby’s arrival. They can often forget about going green in between debates about name choices and color palettes for the nursery. So, when you’re out browsing for baby gifts, give one that’s eco-friendly. Here are our top 10 green baby gifts.
1. E.M. Set by Earth Monkeys
Thousands of disposable bibs and changing pads end up in landfills each year. Break the cycle by giving the gift of reusables with this eco set from Earth Monkeys. Each E.M. set includes a reusable bib, paci-pack and portable changing pad that fold up for easy storage.
But reusability isn’t the only thing that makes this pick green. Each of these on-the-go accessories are made from 100 percent recycled plastic bottles. So, baby can learn about the three R’s early.
Price: $26.97
2. Cloth Diapers by Swaddlebees
Millions of tons of disposable diapers hit the landfill each year. And although cloth diapers are a bit more of a hassle, the eco benefits far outweigh the time you’ll spend washing them. Just ask eco mom Margarita McClure, who we profiled last year for starting a business around earth-saving diapers.
McClure started out by sewing diapers for her son in 2005, but she’s since founded two brands – Swaddlebees and its stylish cousin, Blueberry Diapers – to make choosing reusable easier for other eco-conscious parents. Each super-absorbent Swaddlebees diaper is completely nontoxic and reusable, and they come in loads of cute colors and patterns to suit any baby’s style.
Price: $18.95
3. Affinity Double Electric Breast Pump by Lansinoh
Opting for breastfeeding is the best way to avoid the endless stream of packaging waste associated with using bottled or canned formula. And for busy moms, the best way to make sure baby always has enough milk on hand is to use a breast pump. All the equipment in the Affinity Double Electric Breast Pump is guaranteed to be BPA-free, and since most pieces are made from polypropylene, they are completely recyclable.
Some eco moms opt for manual breast pumps to save on energy use. But for faster and easier pumping, a battery-powered pump like this one is a good substitute. Just pop in some rechargeable batteries, and you’re good to go. This pump is available at most value stores and baby supply retailers.
Price: Varies by retailer
4. Glass Baby Bottle with Silicone Sleeve by lifefactory
Even breastfeeding mothers are bound to need a bottle from time to time for pumped milk or the occasional formula. When bottle feeding, glass is usually considered to be the safest choice, as there is no chance of chemicals leaking out into the milk during heating or storing. The silicone sleeve of this design by lifefactory provides an easier grip for added safety.
And the best thing about this bottle is that it grows with your little one. The included clear cover can easily serve as an easy-to-hold first cup. And when you’re finished with your bottle, the material is completely recyclable. Although the type of glass used in this model is more durable than other varieties, please remember that it can crack when exposed to dramatic temperature changes or heavy impact.
Price: $14.49
5. Green Eats Serving Spoons by Green Toys
If you’re looking for a cute and eco-friendly baby gift that won’t break the bank, this is the pick for you. These Green Eats Serving Spoons from Green Toys are made in the U.S. from 100 percent recycled plastic milk containers. While some parents may be wary of using recycled plastic around their kids, these spoons are guaranteed for safety and are free of melamine, BPA, phthalates, PVC and external coatings.
Each spoon has soft edges to make meal time safe and easy for beginning eaters and those that help feed them. And once baby grows into big-boy utensils, these spoons are completely recyclable.
Price: $5.99 for a set of 8
6. Natural Pacifier by Naturally Trendy
It’s usually not long before pacifiers get worn out or lost. So, why not choose a natural and biodegradable pacifier to cut back on plastic waste? These pacifiers from Naturally Trendy are made from 100 percent natural rubber from the Hevea brasiliensis tree, making them completely biodegradable.
An added bonus of these rubber pacis is that they’re free of the allergy-causing substances, artificial colors and other harsh chemicals that can be found in other models. They’re also softer than silicone, which is used for most pacifiers, making them flexible and durable. And they’ll never leave marks on baby’s face.
Price: $6.50
7. Natursutten Chill-it Fish BPA-Free Teether from Organic Baby Gift Boutique
Teething is never the most pleasant time for babies (or parents). To make the process a little more bearable for your little darling, try a chill-able teether like this one from German baby retailer Natursutten.
These teethers are filled with purified, sterilized water. So, once refrigerated, they help ease baby’s pain by temporarily reducing blood flow in the gums. And the soft, textured surface massages the gums and helps teeth emerge. These teethers are BPA-free and contain no phthalates or chemical softeners.
Price: $11.75
8. Reclaimed Wool Stuffed Animals by Uncommon Goods
Handmade from reclaimed sweaters, these soft and adorable animals will make great favorite toys, and they’re a cute and interesting addition to any nursery. After becoming a parent, Canadian artist Josh Title decided to bring recycled goods into the toy box by fashioning one-of-a-kind children’s products from reclaimed fabrics.
These animals are also free of sharp edges or detachable pieces. So, there’s no fear of your child choking on a button when your back is turned. Note that since these pieces are handmade from reclaimed fabrics, color and size will vary slightly.
Price: $29.99
9. Messenger II Bag by Diaper Dude
Don’t forget about dad when you’re planning your baby gifts! This dapper diaper bag is perfect for the dad on the go, and it banishes any illusion that he’s wearing a purse. The best part is – each bag is made from recycled plastic bottles. About 25 plastic bottles are shredded, melted and woven into polyester to form each Diaper Dude bag. So, dad won’t only be saving the day with your child’s favorite toy, he’ll also be keeping plastic bottles out of the landfill.
This bag is equipped with a fold-out changing pad to reduce the need for disposable pads. And dad can store everything baby needs, along with his personal belongings like keys, cell phones and work papers, within easy reach.
Price: $98
10. Sock Monkey Blanket by Uncommon Goods
This adorable blanket has the same iconic colors of the sock monkey. And, just like the sock monkey, it’s made from recycled materials. These blankets are made from leftover fabric collected from apparel and upholstery factories that would otherwise be discarded. Each blanket is made from 75 percent recycled cotton and 25 percent acrylic.
All scraps of fabric are used to minimize waste. So, these soft blankies will vary slightly in color and pattern.
Price: $40
Make Plant and Candle Holders from Baby Food Jars