Last updated on May 2, 2024 by Kathy
Just about every parent who has ever filed a patent will tell you that babies need a lot of stuff, but they produce a lot of waste. As an eco-friendly parent, what can you do to create a sustainable space for you and your children? Check out some of the best sustainable products you can choose for your baby:
Diapers, baby
If there’s one thing babies tend to produce a lot, it’s dirty diapers. Babies create a large portion of the waste produced in households around the world. As a responsible parent, what steps can you take to limit diaper waste while providing a safe and clean environment for your child? After all, potty training doesn’t happen until they’re older, so you’ll need diapers.
There are several options to choose from. You can consider biodegradable bamboo diapers, which are sustainable, or you can choose cloth diapers that can be washed as needed.
buy second hand clothes
If you want to take another step toward sustainability as a parent, consider buying second-hand clothes. Because babies only wear the same size for a short period of time, baby clothes quickly go to waste.
Just like you try to avoid fast fashion as an adult, your baby can avoid fast fashion by buying second-hand clothes. You’re bound to find some really amazing baby clothes that are rarely used and are perfect for your little one. While there’s no denying that the idea of fresh, brand-new baby gear is exciting, you can also find second-hand clothing in good condition. Consider reaching out to your circle to see if there are any baby products that your friends or loved ones have used but no longer use.
Make your own baby food
One area where people see so much waste is in baby food. Baby food comes in packaging, and packaging is often excessive. As a parent who cares about the environment, how do you ensure your baby gets necessary nutrients while avoiding added waste?
You can find baby recipes and make your own food, or look for baby brands that make low-packaging products so you can buy food, snacks and products for your child while also caring for the environment.
Reusable wet wipes instead of flushable wipes
In addition to diapers, wet wipes are also items needed when raising a baby. While flushable wipes may be very convenient, they also create a lot of waste. While washing wipes regularly can be time-consuming and maybe even a little annoying, as one of the biggest baby items that are constantly thrown away, a more sustainable option is to opt for cloth wipes. Maybe it’s extra work for you, but it’s better for the environment.
Recycle and donate
Once your child has outgrown baby clothes, it’s time to do his or her part for the environment. Whether you choose to throw away baby items for recycling or donate them to a charity you know could use them, it’s important to do your part to prevent these baby items from ending up as waste.
Additionally, you can contact your loved ones and let them know that you can provide free items for their children if needed. You never know who might be in need or how your used items could become a godsend to them.
In summary
We love our kids, but they do produce a lot of waste. As a parent who cares about the environment, consider how you can make a difference by choosing better products for your baby. While this may mean adapting to regular washing of soiled cloth diapers and wipes, you’ll eliminate a lot of waste.
