Shopping·11 min read

19 Sustainable Parenting Products That Are Better for the Planet

sustainable parenting products baby and toddler
Design: theSkimm | Image: The Honest Company
April 21, 2022

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Parents, you know the drill: The moment kids enter the picture, you’re hyper-aware of what they’re touching, eating, and playing with at all times. We get it — you wanna make sure they’re safe and not near anything that could ever harm them. That’s why we believe in sustainable baby and toddler products that also take quality into consideration, from ingredients to materials to packaging (like reusable diapers and organic baby formula). To help you out, we did some research and rounded up eco-friendly products that are both better for the planet and your cherished little ones.

reusable cloth diapers
Amazon

Cloth reusable diapers that’ll literally save you so much money…

And greatly reduce the amount of waste you produce per week. They’re lead-, latex-, and BPA-free, with a waterproof outer layer and microfiber inserts to absorb leaks. There are both hip snaps and crossover snaps to prevent the diaper from drooping. Once it’s used, just toss it in the wash and it’s good as new. Phew. ($39.99/6 pack, Amazon)

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diaper balm
Hive

A gentle and effective organic diaper balm…

Made from moisturizing calendula and a mix of other herbs, this balm soothes and prevents raw, chapped skin. It’s got no petroleum, parabens, or artificial fragrances. From start to finish, Mama Earth is mindful of every step of the process. They use upcycled and unprinted newsprint for their package filler, plus they partner with groups like Northwest Mothers Milk Bank to make sure women feel supported through every stage of motherhood. ($11.99, Hive)

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bamboo toothbrush
Cerqular

A bamboo toothbrush that’s biodegradable and dentist-approved…

Say goodbye to plastic options. This one has nylon bristles that’ll get the job done, but you’ll feel better knowing that you’re handing your child something that’s better for the environment. Now all you gotta do is get them to brush for more than 30 seconds. ($3.49, Cerqular)

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yumi organic baby food
Yumi

An organic baby-food delivery service for your rapidly growing little one…

You customize the plan and Yumi does the rest. Everything is made from organic, fresh ingredients and shipped right to your door. The plans are broken down by ‘stages,’ from 6+ months up to 11+ months. Jars start as single-ingredient purees and work their way up to nutrient-dense bites and food puffs. So your tot can discover new tastes and textures. PS: Everything is sourced locally, and pediatric experts guide meal plans. Blends have no added sugars, and Yumi works especially hard to decrease food waste. (Plans starting at $5+/day, Yumi)

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plant-based baby wipes
The Honest Company

Baby wipes that are 100% plant-based and ideal for sensitive skin…

Whether you’ve got a cleanup on aisle diaper or need to sanitize some toys from sticky fingers, these wipes can do it all. They’re hypoallergenic, derm-tested, and contain more than 99% water (aka zero harsh chemicals). Another pro? The dispenser is pop-up so they’re easy to grab while you’ve got a squirming little one. ($0.99+, The Honest Company)

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bath bombs
Dabble & Dollop

Bath bombs that’ll actually entice your kiddos to wash up at night…

They’re cruelty-, sulfate-, and paraben-free, and made with minimal ingredients to ensure each one is 100% natural and clean. Seriously — they were created by a professional who spent over two decades in the cosmetics and personal care ingredients space. Scents range from strawberry to vanilla, so before your child climbs into the bathtub, drop one in for an instantly bubbly and sweet-smelling experience. ($25/12 pack, Dabble & Dollop)

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baby lotion
Brandless

Unscented baby lotion made with shea butter and coconut oil…

Dry, flaky skin has met its match. This lotion is hypoallergenic, vegan, and cruelty-free. Because you shouldn’t have to worry about what goes on your newborn’s skin. Customers rave about how light it is, plus how easily it spreads and soaks into skin. ($5, Brandless)

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dagne dover sustainable baby bag
Dagne Dover

A diaper backpack that’ll hold all your necessities…

Made with 17 recycled bottles, this bag comes with a changing mat, stroller clips, a washable zipper bag for dirty diapers, plus a small pouch for pacifiers. It’s made from a durable neoprene material, which is water-resistant and easy to clean. So go ahead and load up on extra diapers, wipes, a change of clothes, snacks, and more. The various pockets will house tiny objects, while the roomy inside is perfect for larger items. It’s a mommy and daddy must-have. We love the bright color and if you want more, check out the entire new collection. ($185+, Dagne Dover)

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yeti insulated water bottle
Yeti

An ultra-durable water bottle for kids who are constantly on the move…

Ice-cold water, coming right up. Now as they race from the swings to the jungle gym, they’ll be able to sip on water that won’t call for plastic or paper cups. This 12-ounce Rambler is double-walled so it’s airtight and will keep drinks cold no matter how long they wanna play tag for. It’s puncture- and rust-resistant, dishwasher-safe, and ideal for any little one who tends to spill (so literally every kid). ($25, Yeti)

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stainless steel cups
Amazon

Stainless steel cups to replace plastic ones…

They’re lightweight and made for small hands, which makes ’em way easier for toddlers to handle. You can pack them on picnics, use them at parties, or keep them in the house for juice and milk. The best part is that they can go straight into the dishwasher once they’re dirty. ($15.95+/4 pack, Amazon)

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stainless steel bowls
Amazon

And stainless steel bowls for snacks and meals…

Whether you’re serving them fruit or allowing them an ice cream treat at the end of the day, these nontoxic, BPA-free bowls make everything easier. They create way less waste and are also dishwasher-safe. If they fall or get knocked around, they won’t chip or break. They’re pretty much the kid-safe version of dinnerware. ($19.99/4 pack, Amazon)

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organic cotton baby booties
Babylist

Organic cotton booties that are both soft and warm…

One Skimm HQ’r highly recs these booties, saying that they easily hold up after numerous washes. The ankles have both elastic and a two-snap design so they’ll stay on, even if you’ve got a little one who loves to wiggle. They’re available in three sizes: 0-3 months, 3-6 months, and 6-12 months. If your little one is becoming mobile, don’t worry — the 6-12 month booties have bottom grips. ($21, Babylist)

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reusable sippy cups
Amazon

No-spill sippy cups made from recycled milk jugs…

Not only are they dishwasher-safe, but these sippy cups are also microwave-safe if you need to heat up liquid. They’re created by a family-owned company that pays special attention to quality, so no BPA or PVC. They’re stackable for easy storage and can be recycled once they’ve reached the end of their life cycle. Psst…if you like these, check out their divided plates also made from recycled materials. ($21.99/4 pack, Amazon)

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glass baby bottle
Target

Glass baby bottles for feeding…

The tops mimic a natural nipple shape, which will make latching easier for babies, especially if you’re rotating between breastfeeding and bottles. The glass itself is high-quality borosilicate glass, which means the entire thing is heat- and shock-resistant. The nipple is also vented, allowing for easier airflow into your baby’s tummy. ($27.99/3 pack, Target)

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organic baby crib mattress
Newton Baby

A 100% breathable and washable crib mattress…

Let’s talk features: The innovative Breathe-Thru technology means your baby faces a way lower risk of suffocation, it’s entirely washable from core to cover, it doesn’t have glue or springs, and it’s built for longevity. So it’ll stay with your little one from the infant stage through toddler life. The cherry on top? It’s GreenGuard Gold Certified, meaning it’s been independently tested and certified for low chemical emissions. In fact, studies have shown that a baby gets 97% more air while breathing through a Newton crib mattress pad versus a conventional waterproof crib mattress. Add to cart. ($199.99+, Newton Baby)

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eco-friendly bath toys
Target

Eco-friendly bath toys made from recycled plastic…

No PVC, phthalates, or BPA here. These toys are built to last. And with the spouts and holes, your kiddos will have so much fun scooping and pouring water while splashing around. The handles help with grip too. If the toys start looking (or smelling) a bit funky, the cabins can be opened up for easy cleaning. ($28.95/2 pack, Target)

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shape sorter toy
Target

And a toy shape sorter also made from recycled milk jugs…

This sorter includes two circles, two squares, two stars, and two triangles, with no sharp edges or small parts. It does meet FDA standards for food contact, so if your little one ends up lightly teething, it’s 100% safe. There are no external coatings, paints, or dyes used. ($14.99, Target)

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sponge cloths reusable swedish dish cloths
Food52

Compostable sponge cloths that’ll help you tackle any mess…

See ya, paper towels. These clothes are rinse-and-repeat go-getters that’ll clean up after any spill or spit-up. They’re made from plant fibers and printed with water-based ink, so they’ll decompose within six weeks if placed into a home compost. ($15+, Food52)

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stojo reusable collapsible water bottle
Stojo

A mini collapsible water bottle that won’t take up extra space in your bag…

Recommended for ages 6+, this leak-proof bottle can collapse down once your kiddo has chugged their water post soccer game. There are no leads, glues, or phthalates included, plus it’s dishwasher-safe. The silicone is also LFGB certified, which is a European safety standard that’s actually even more strict than FDA regulations. Regardless of temperature, Stojo can be your go-to container. ($17, Stojo)

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