The simple product swaps to lower your baby's toxic load

Image Dakota Corbin/ Unsplash

Kids

The simple product swaps to lower your baby’s toxic load

Try these non-toxic alternatives instead

As a mum, it goes without saying you want the absolute best for your little one, but did you know behind the shiny marketing and child-friendly labels, some of the most common baby care products – those we use every single day – contain ingredients we’d prefer to avoid? Here’s our list of daily simple swaps to lower your child’s toxic load.

Vapour Rub

When it comes to stuffy noses kids vapour rub is a game-changer. A little on their chest – and feet – quickly allows a cranky bub to breathe easily and most importantly, get some much-needed sleep. But, mainstream vapour rub (like Vicks) contains toxic ingredients like camphor and petrochemicals like turpentine oil. The good news is there are salves powered by plant-based ingredients and essential oils, that not only work a charm but are much safer for little ones.

Try instead; Natural balms with essential oils

Talc

In 2017 Johnson & Johnson was ordered to pay a multi-million dollar payout to victims claiming their talcum powder cause ovarian cancer. Although claims asbestos had made its way into the powder were from the ‘50s to ‘70s, it seems no one can agree on the safety of talc. If you’re staring down the barrel of nappy rash, you want to something to wick away moisture or you need an alternative to cream, corn starch powder is a great alternative. A good tip is to put the powder in your hand first then apply to baby – it’ll minimise particles reaching the air.

Try instead; Cornstarch powder

Baby oil

Many conventional baby oils on the market are largely made of mineral oil. Put simply, it’s a derivative of petroleum. They’re also often perfumed using synthetic ingredients. Plant-based oils – like almond, coconut and shea are a great natural alternative, especially on sensitive skin.

Try instead; A single blend or natural oil

Dummies

Natural rubber soothers are a great alternative to silicon and plastic counterparts, they’re made from one piece of natural rubber and are also biodegradable.

Try instead; A rubber soother