This French-made all-in-one blender, steamer, defroster and reheater all-in-one is genius!  My little boy is 7 months young and he eats only freshly made babyfood from organic fruits, vegetables and grains prepared by his super-busy mama and babycook® . Things have gotten less complicated and messy at our home thanks to this little machine, so I had to share this with our readers.  Especially those who believe there is not enough time to cook  your own healthy organic baby food.

I was skeptical when I first saw it in stores and wanted to find out more, since it’s made with clear plastic (a usual suspect for BPA). The US distributor Scandinavian Child assured me that the Beaba Babycook has been BPA-Safety Tested by a third party certified test lab, which found no detectable BPA (within the detectable rate of 0.02 mg/microgram). I also received the BPA Migration Lab Test Report 2009 to confirm their statement. The new packaging will now include a BPA-Free label.

Preparing Healthy and Organic Baby Food

The Beaba Babycook starts by steam cooking vegetables, fruits, and meats in less than 15 minutes, while preserving their vitamins and flavors. It then purees or blends them to the desired consistency.  You can also use it to quickly reheat or defrost precooked foods.

Oh, and it also looks cool on the kitchen counter, no need to put away! Especially great for moms & dads with small kitchens, it’s a great space saver. It’s also great to bring with you on vacation and grandparents house!

Additional Info:

• Bowl is made from unbreakable Polysulfone (PSU) which is BPA-free
• Cooking Basket is made from transparent Polypropylene
• Easy to clean – top rack dishwasher safe or hand wash
• Recipe & Menu book included
• Super fast cooking – 15 minutes or less
• Bowl size – 2 1/2 cups (600 ml)

You can purchase the Beaba Babycook Baby Food Maker through Amazon for $149 HERE.

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• Yummi Bears Organics: Vegetarian Organic Gummy Vitamins by Hero Nutritionals
• Enjoy Your Eco-fabulous Party with Bambu Bamboo!
• Product Review: The Calm Baby Cookbook
• Are Food Certification Labels Misleading?
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• Safe Gardening With Your Child Is a Gift For Life

LEAD IS A FACT OF LIFE.  And you need a plan to deal with it.  Thanks to Joanna Cerazy and Sandra Cottingham, authors of Lead Babies, our exclusive interview below will give parents more insight on the dangers of lead exposure for our children, and what we can do to reduce exposure.

Lead plays a causal role in a broad spectrum of cognitive and neuromuscular disorders ranging from mild irritability to autism to severe mental disabilities. Lead can adversely affect nearly every organ in the body. In children, exposure to lead causes irreversible brain damage which in turn results in learning disabilities, ADHD, behavior problems, lowered IQ, as well as delays in speech and language development. Exposure to lead is also known to cause damage to the kidneys and central nervous system. It is responsible for anemia, hearing damage and problems with digestion. Children exposed to lead often experience inhibited bone and muscle growth. Adults who are exposed to excessive amounts of lead are prone to developing high blood pressure, autoimmune diseases, damage to their reproductive systems as well as cataracts and muscle and joint pain. Lead is a cause for extreme concern for pregnant women as it has been proven to cause miscarriage, stillbirth and preterm delivery.

Learn much more in our continued interview below.

House paint, gasoline, canned food, and tap water: a generation ago, these lead sources changed the world we live in and upped the ante in the gamble that goes with having healthy, thriving children.  For those of us that thought lead disappeared with the introduction of unleaded gas – think again!  The lead industry continues to be alive and well with a flourishing demand and steady production. Lead does not dissolve, evaporate or break down. It continually re-circulates in our environment and ends up stored in our bones – in woman, eventually transfers to an unborn children in-utero.

Wow, we had tons more questions.  Here is our Q&A with the respected authors of LEAD BABIES…..

How many children are effected by excessive lead exposure?

There are no exact numbers on lead levels in children since it does not stay in the blood for long, and lead deposited in bone and tissue is difficult to assess. However, in the United States, each year, approximately 250,000 children between the ages of one and five are tested as having blood lead levels higher than 10 micrograms of lead per deciliter of blood. The amount of lead that is deemed a safe level has dropped repeatedly over the years as science confirms that the only safe reading of lead is zero.

“Lead is transferred directly from mother to unborn baby at exactly the time that the central nervous system is rapidly developing.”

The Dangers Of Lead Exposure To Our Kids

What’s more concerning for children: lead exposure through food or toys (or other things?)

Children are at high risk of being exposed to lead’s harm because they tend to put their hands and objects in their mouths.  Their small, rapidly developing bodies absorb lead more readily than those of adults. Nowadays, the source of much lead poisoning in children is dust, contaminated by deteriorating paint surfaces and airborne lead particles circulating in the environment. Tap water is another very common source. While toys can be significant source of lead for children, the list of common household products at risk for containing lead is especially concerning.

“The most prominent symptoms of lead poisoning include drowsiness, irritability, poor muscle coordination, fussiness, loss of appetite, upset stomach, constipation, anemia, reduced attention span, and inability to sleep.”

What are the 3 main sources of lead exposure?

The leading sources of lead exposure are water, dust and soil, and household objects. The important thing to remember is that lead exposure is cumulative. Lead in trace amounts consumed or inhaled daily becomes a dangerous body burden very quickly.

What items should I always keep away from young kids, due to high lead content?

Avoid children’s access to peeling paint or chewable surfaces painted with lead-based paint.  Lead is found in many folk remedies, candies, toys, crystals, ceramics, pottery, garden hoses, curtain weights, imported crayons and sidewalk chalk, electronics, candlewicks, baby bibs, Christmas lights– the list goes on. Vigilance is critical not only for babies and children, but also mothers-to-be. Lead is transferred directly from mother to unborn baby at exactly the time that the central nervous system is rapidly developing.

The Symptoms of Lead Exposure

What are the symptoms?

Often, lead poisoning has no obvious symptoms and goes unrecognized. To complicate things further, the symptoms of lead poisoning can be identical with signs of many other conditions. The most prominent symptoms of lead poisoning include drowsiness, irritability, poor muscle coordination, fussiness, loss of appetite, upset stomach, constipation, anemia, reduced attention span, and inability to sleep. Exposure to high levels of lead causes seizures, comas and death.

“Home gardens can be a special problem for food contamination from lead and in all circumstances, soil samples should be collected and taken to a testing facility before considering growing food.”

Lead Detox

How can we get lead out of our children’s bodies?

There are many approaches to the removal of lead that has accumulated in children’s bodies over time. Each child’s state of health, age, metabolism, biology and toxic load must be taken into account when deciding which approach to apply.  There is a number of alternative and medical lead removal methods. Natural options include far infrared saunas and clay footbaths, as well as herbal preparations that contain cilantro, chlorella, garlic, and milk thistle. Medical methods used to decrease the lead body burden involve some form of chelation, a process in which a chelating agent binds with lead that resides in soft tissues, thus helping with excretion.
All chelation should be under the supervision of a medical profession.

Testing A Child For Lead Poisoning

When do you suggest I should have my child tested for lead exposure?

The guidelines for testing vary depending where you live, so people should check with their local health department. The general guidelines are that children who live in or regularly visit a dwelling built before 1978, who have  playmates or siblings who have lead poisoning, or who have parents who work with lead should be checked. Blood tests reveal if there is ongoing exposure to lead, while more comprehensive testing using chelation and urine sampling will give better information about how much lead has accumulated over time.

Can any pediatrician do the lead test?

Yes. To determine current, ongoing lead exposure levels, a standard laboratory blood test can be ordered by a family physician or pediatrician. Similarly, a doctor must administer lead testing that involves a chelating agent and urine testing.

“Lead has been found in a wide range of chocolate products including milk chocolate, syrup, toppings, fudge puddings, and chocolate drinks, with dark chocolate products having the highest levels.”

Toys and Lead-Free Claims

Since there is no guaranteed ‘lead-free’ label on toys, how can I make sure it does not contain lead?

Actually, due to the growing awareness of the harm lead causes and the frequency of recalled  products, lead-free labels are becoming increasingly common. Finding lead-free products is becoming less challenging, with the internet helpful for both research and shopping.  A good place to start is the Lead Free Store. Readers of Lead Babies report that their heightened understanding about lead’s uses and properties make them savvy consumers. For items that you already own, keep a home lead check kit on hand and follow the directions carefully.

What are the current laws on lead in toys?  Does ‘lead-free’ claims really guarantee lead-free?

Starting on February 10, 2009, consumer products intended for children 12 and under cannot have more than 600 parts per million of lead in any accessible part. This means that toys deemed to be safe for kids are allowed to contain some lead, but only when the lead is shown to not leach under any lead under testing conditions. As a rule of thumb, when buying toys avoid vinyl and painted surfaces. Choose natural toys that are made from cardboard, paper, glass, wood, metal, or cloth.

How Lead Getting Into The Foods We Eat

We heard about high lead contamination in soil due to lead-based paint chips flaking from homes and factory pollution. Is this a concern if I start my own veggie garden? Can veggies absorb lead?

The problem of lead in soil is very real. Lead has accumulated over the years from pre- 1978 paint and past leaded-fuel pollution. Home gardens can be a special problem for food contamination from lead and in all circumstances, soil samples should be collected and taken to a testing facility before considering growing food. Uptake of lead varies depending on the kind of produce. Compared to root vegetables (carrots, beets, radishes), fruiting vegetables such as berries and tomatoes are less likely to contain lead as it tends to accumulate more readily in roots. Leafy vegetables (spinach, lettuce, parsley) may be contaminated with lead that has been deposited from the air.

“Last year, the FDA tested 324 vitamins and only four were shown not to contain lead.”

We’ve heard that free-range hens and their eggs were likely to have higher concentrations of lead because of the soil. Can lead get into the chicken/eggs?

Eggs of chickens grown in areas with high levels of lead in soil have been shown to contain increased levels of lead.  If you are raising your own chickens, the only way to know for sure if the eggs are safe is to have them professionally tested.

We heard about high lead content in processed chocolate. How can parents make sure the chocolate they purchase is lead free?

Lead in chocolate has been traced back to sloppy manufacturing practices, the leaded gasoline still used in farm equipment, and fertilizers. Whatever the source of contamination, consuming lead-containing chocolate is harmful, especially to young children and expectant mothers. It has been found in a wide range of chocolate products including milk chocolate, syrup, toppings, fudge puddings, and chocolate drinks, with dark chocolate products having the highest levels. Even the label “organic” does not mean lead-free as was evident when 40,000 pounds of one brand organic chocolate products were recalled. Of course, the amounts of lead vary from product to product and can also vary from batch to batch. Finding chocolate products that are tested and certified 100% lead-free takes research, but there are companies committed to such standards.

How much should parents be concerned about lead in vitamins?

Lead in vitamins is of particular concern due to the fact that vitamins are taken daily, potentially resulting in a steady, regular dosage of lead. Unfortunately, vitamins and calcium supplements have been shown to frequently contain lead. Last year, the FDA tested 324 vitamins and only four were shown not to contain lead. Surprisingly, the FDA does not consider these multivitamins unsafe as they are within “allowable limits”. Parents should indeed be concerned, and, as with toys and chocolate, they need to do their research.

Prenatal Exposure To Lead

What other concerns does your book touch base on?

The media focus on lead exposure for pregnant woman and small children risks the impression that men and older children are far less impacted. Our book corrects this impression, showing the dramatic effect of lead on IQ regardless of age, as well as lead’s very severe impact on fertility of both men and women.

Another important concern we highlight is the synergistic relationship between lead and another deadly neurotoxin – mercury. The surprising household prevalence of mercury becomes a sobering reality when one understands that the presence of lead makes it 100 times as toxic. Lead and mercury exposure together result in autism.

Anything else you think parents should be aware of?

We want parents to be aware that heavy metal exposure can easily be avoided without a lifestyle change or huge expense. The goal of our book is to empower parents to take a few simple steps to keep themselves and their children protected from unnecessary exposure.  We show parents how.

For parents of children with learning and behavior challenges, as well as autism, an understanding of cause is a critical first step in effective management. Along with the modern day epidemic of infertility and autoimmune disease that lead has created, the cycle of learning disabilities, ADHD, declining IQ, behavior problems and autism that is also lead’s legacy can be broken.

LEAD BABIES, The Book

Autism, ADHD, behavior disorders, lowered IQ and learning disabilities are an epidemic in North America and throughout the world. We have known of the serious health problems caused by lead for years, but in utero lead transfer from mother to baby is critical new information that will impact every demographic in every country of the world. At the time when the developing baby is most vulnerable to toxic materials, lead from a multitude of apparently harmless sources passes from the mother to the brain and other organs of her unborn child.

The exterior paint on houses, the water in the taps, the toys in the playroom, the food in the refrigerator, the furnishings in the home: all of these can be sources of toxic lead that can harm unborn babies and adults alike.

Lead Babies, by Joanna Cerazy and Sandra Cottingham, gives detailed information to help readers leadproof their homes and protect their children from the beginning of pregnancy through rearing.

Lead Babies: How heavy metals are causing our children’s autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, low IQ and behavior problems is available on Amazon for 24.95 and most other on-line book stores, or ask your local bookstore to order a copy for you if it is not on the shelf.

About the Authors of Lead Babies

The book’s authors have a long history as teaching colleagues and research partners. They have collaborated on several projects within the field of special education. Lead Babies is their first collaborative book.

Joanna Cerazy has a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership with research in special education. She has an extensive background in European and world literature. She has taught both regular and special education in primary, elementary and secondary school contexts. She currently works as a special education consultant.Joanna Cerazy has led and actively participated in several major educational research projects. Recent research includes the skills and knowledge for inclusive education, teacher preparation and special educational policy.

Sandra Cottingham, M.Sc., Ph.D. has twenty years of classroom experience with regular students and with students with special needs. As a consultant in a large British Columbia school district, Dr. Cottingham works daily with teachers and administrators supporting children with significant cognitive and behavior challenges. Dr. Cottingham’s understanding of the issues in special education, her research, and her written work have been recognized by the B.C. Minister of Education. She has been an instructor in the Department of Counseling Psychology and Special Education at the University of British Columbia and a guest presenter for Simon Fraser University. Dr. Cottingham’s doctoral dissertation entitled, Implementing the Mandate of Inclusion, A Model for Moving from Concept to Action was recently published by Tilburg University, Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences, in the Netherlands. Recently, she was named as an Associate of the Taos Institute of New Mexico, USA.

Visit them @  www.nomoreleadbabies.com and  www.enoughlead.com

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Put your noisy colorful toys away and bring out this creative unpretentious toy.  This natural wooden block set is a childhood classic and it keeps many kids engaged in creative play for hours.  If your looking for a sweet safe alternative toy (to those flashy noisy games that overstimulate our nervous systems)  maybe it’s time for some quite play with CitiBlocs.

Many wooden blocks are painted (unfortunately, sometimes with toxic paints or finishes) and some even contain glues that press the wood.  The frightening concern about some glues in our children’s toys is that they may contain formaldehyde.  Yep, formaldehyde.  One of the top 3 toxins that Margie Kelly (Communications Director from Safer Chemicals, Healthy Families) personally picked as being in the top 3 most dangerous toxins our children are readily exposed to, and one of our picks for the top 12 toxins to keep away from our kids in 2010.

Find out more on why Citiblocs is a winner of our EXCELLENCE AWARD!

Citiblocs Wins Our Excellence Award

CitiBlocs is a winner!

Citiblocs are high quality wooden construction blocks which inspire both traditional building and modern design.  Each block is precisely cut from Grade A Radiata Pine.  Radiata pine, nicknamed the ‘remarkable pine’ is a tree which is suited to a considerable range of growing conditions, is easily raised and planted.  Radiata pine is a more earth conscious option of wood because it provides larger yields of usable timber in a shorter time than many native species.  CitiBlocs Radiata Pine comes from certified renewable forests in New Zealand.

CitiBlocs are made in Vietnam and are recommended for ages 3+. Citiblocs are certified safe and non-toxic and have been tested and approved according to all Consumer Product Safely Improvement Act (CPSIA) regulations.

The blocks are all the same size – measuring in inches approximately 1/4 inches thick x 1 inch wide x 4 1/2 inches long.  Our mom testers has so many great things to say about this product!

Why We Love Citiblocs Natural Wooden Block Sets

Mom and Little Girl Tester #1:

• “As parents we think that toys need to be colorful (make noise etc.) but to my surprise this toy is as appealing as any other. I also thought that she seemed to play more quietly with them and the fact that you can’t do anything wrong (like screw it together), seems to be even more fun.  Also I noticed that these blocks are great to play together with other kids, my daughter usually doesn’t like to play a game with other kids at the same time except legos or these blocks.  She got really excited to play this with her cousin.
• My daugher is 3 1/2, so she needs some help building the more complex structures but prefers to build her own easier versions (see photos). So these blocs are great for any age.
• Citiblocs is great to play with the entire family. My husband and I started building towers/bridges with our daughter and it is fun to play something together that’s fun for all of us. (We suggest though to get the 200 piece set or more, so the entire family can play together).
• I like how peacefully/quiet she can play with these blocs and how determined (and not frustrated) she gets, creating shelter or bridges for her animals.
• The compact 100 piece box is perfect to have with you on travels / trips to grandparents house!

Mom and Little Boy Testers #2

What does your son enjoy building with these blocks? My Son has be building 3 dimentnal buildings, fishing docs, piers, bridges,fences, horse corrals,train tunnels and using them as a foundation for big buildings.

Is having a “green” building block set important to you?  Why/why not?
Having green building blocks/toys is important to me and and my family because as a mom I know my children are safe using natural products, also being aware of our environment and earth is a core value I want my children to grow up with.

Do you feel he is being creatively stimulated while playing with his CitiBlocs? I absolutely feel that my son is being creatively stimulated, I have seen him create structures he has never created before.

How long does this 100 piece block set keep him in creative play? The 100 piece block set will keep My 5 yr. old engaged for 1/2 hour- hour at a time.

What were your original thoughts on this product?  Were you impressed with the product after you saw your child play with it? My initial thought on the product was that the blocks were going to be too thin for my child to be able to stand or stack. I really didn’t think that he would be so creative with them.  After watching him play with them was pretty amazed with how creative he was with them. I was impressed with how he could stand and balance them.

How old is your son? My children are 5 yrs. and 2yrs. both boys play with the CitiBlocs.  My two yr. old uses them to make roads and train tracks.

Anything else you would like to say about this product? What I really like about the blocks is that they are not painted, they look and feel raw and natural. These are the kind of toys I like seeing laying around my home. Thank you for a great product.

THESE ARE JUST THE TYPE OF TOYS WE LIKE SEEING AROUND OUR HOME TOO!  WAY TO GO CITIBLOCS!

Citiblocs can be purchased in a number of size sets from our links below:

SMALL SET  CITIBLOCS Original Wooden Color Building Block Set – 54 Piece

MEDIUM BLOCK SET CITIBLOCS Original Wooden Building Block Set – 100 Piece, which is what our testers had!

LARGE BLOCK SET CITIBLOCS Original Wooden Building Block Set – 200 Piece

FAMILY BLOCK SET CITIBLOCS Original Wooden Building Block Set – 300 Piece

COLLECTORS EDITION:  CITIBLOCS Original Wooden Building Block Set – 500 Piece With Wooden Storage Box

Please check out MomApprovedChildTested.com to see our other Excellence and Green Award Winners

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We received lots of emails from confused parents wondering about Bisphenol A (BPA) in  the packaging of Infant Formula and decided to do a short post about this topic.

We contacted all major US Baby Formula makers to figure out which ones are safe and which aren’t. What we found out is that  almost all liquid formula is still packaged in cans lined with Bisphenol A (BPA), a toxic chemical linked to reproductive disorders and neurobehavioral problems in lab animals according to the Environmental Working Group (EWG).¹

All manufacturers except Nestlé Good Start Formula, claimed in their emails to us or via press release, that their Powdered Formula containers are Free of BPA. We at Safbaby wonder, if this is the case, why they don’t label their cans with ‘BPA-free’ to assure concerned parents.  Although we don’t know for sure their BPA-free claims are a 100% true,  it would be wisest to choose Powdered Infant Formula over Liquid Formula.

Earth’s Best®, Similac® and Enfamil® told us in writing that their powdered formula is BPA-free. Nestlé Good Start® however did not respond in writing.

Earth’s Best®

They emailed us following statement:

Earth’s Best sells the following powdered infant formula products in BPA-free canisters:

- Earth’s Best Organic Infant Formula with Iron with DHA & ARA
- Earth’s Best Organic Soy Infant Formula with Iron with DHA & ARA

Similac®

Here is their press release from July 9, 2009:

For more than 80 years, Abbott’s Similac brand formulas have been proven to be a safe and effective source of nutrition for millions of healthy babies. In response to mothers seeking BPA free products, Abbott is pleased to share that it has now achieved “BPA free” status in all of its Similac® brand powdered infant formula products. “BPA free” means that no BPA is present at quantifiable levels using the lowest governmental standards of testing for infant formula.

In addition to powdered formulas, most of our liquid ready-to-feed infant and toddler formulas also repeatedly have shown that no BPA is present at detectable levels, making 91 percent of our infant formula product line “BPA free”.

Abbott is leading the industry in its work with government authorities, including the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Health Canada, and our suppliers. Abbott products have been tested for BPA using the most sensitive and conservative tests available, and levels are undetectable for all powdered products and consistently 50 times below international safety standards for other infant nutrition products.

In response to your question on our Enfamil(R) PREMIUM(R) Value Powder Box and our Single-Serve Powder Packets, while I can’t share with you the exact composition of our packaging because we consider that information proprietary, I can tell you that it does not contain BPA.

In fact, as a result of consumer preference, last year Mead Johnson eliminated BPA as a component in its packaging for all powdered formulas, which accounts for the vast majority of our infant formula business.

Mead Johnson is committed to providing all of our products in packaging that does not use BPA as a component.  Our internal experts are working with our suppliers to identify alternative materials that provide the same level of product protection, in order to eliminate as quickly as possible the minute presence of BPA in packaging for our liquid formulas.  You have our assurance that the benefits and safety data of any new packaging material will be carefully weighed, and that we will continue to ensure the safety and nutritional quality of our products.

According to the U.S. Surgeon General, “The most important thing parents can do for their babies is ensure that they receive adequate nutrition. While the best source of nutrition for babies is a mother’s breast milk, infant formula remains the recommended alternative when breast milk is not an option.”

Enfamil®

They emailed us following statement:

In response to your question on our Enfamil® PREMIUM® Value Powder Box and our Single-Serve Powder Packets, while I can’t share with you the exact composition of our packaging because we consider that information proprietary, I can tell you that it does not contain BPA.

In fact, as a result of consumer preference, last year Mead Johnson eliminated BPA as a component in its packaging for all powdered formulas, which accounts for the vast majority of our infant formula business.

Mead Johnson is committed to providing all of our products in packaging that does not use BPA as a component.  Our internal experts are working with our suppliers to identify alternative materials that provide the same level of product protection, in order to eliminate as quickly as possible the minute presence of BPA in packaging for our liquid formulas.  You have our assurance that the benefits and safety data of any new packaging material will be carefully weighed, and that we will continue to ensure the safety and nutritional quality of our products.

Nestlé Good Start®

No written statement received after several written requests.

Reduce BPA Exposure by choosing powdered infant formula!

Don’t forget to read our post about Fluoride in Infant Formula as well, which is another important concern!

1. http://www.ewg.org/reports/infantformula

• Toxic Infant Formula and What You Can Do NOW
• Does Your Infant’s Formula Contain Fluoride? Yes, They All Do!
• Making A Difference Is Easy!
• Milk Money: The Business of Formula
• US Children Polluted With Toxic Fire Retardants: Part 1
• BPA-Free Plastic Bottles May Not Be BPA-Free
• What BPA-Free Bottles Are Really Free Of BPA?
• Helping To Make Safe Toy Shopping Easier This Christmas
• Introducing SAFbaby.com’s Newest Seal Of Approval- Our Green Seal
• Why Our Children Need Supplements & Natural Immune Boosting Support
• What’s The Devil In The Milk? You Must Read This Important Interview!
• Which formula is best?
• Understanding and Eliminating Colic – Naturally!
• Pregnant Moms Stay Clear of BPA!
• SIGG Bottles and BPA: Exchange Your SIGG Bottle For A BPA-free Lining

Fresh Organics pulls through again, with flying colors, with their organic Conditioning Shampoo and Body Wash for baby, child (and adults even love it too)!  Fresh Organic’s organic bubble bath was just recently awarded our Green Award, and this shampoo/body wash has been awarded our Green Award too!

One of our readers commented on that bubble bath post that she learned some good info on how to keep her child’s sensitive skin protected.  This post will elaborate on that a bit more.

All baby and children have sensitive skin.  Their skin is so new and delicate.  What we put on their skin is just as important as what we put into their bodies we believe.  I also have to mention that a baby’s delicate skin is even MORE ABSORBENT to dangerous toxins than us adults. They are just so vulnerable to all of the harmful ingredients that are hiding in many of the skin care products we believe to be safe to use everyday on our children.

Green Awarded Baby Shampoo and Soap

SAFbaby’s sister site MomApprovedChildTested.com, awards only the products with the utmost integrity and safety. We award the GREEN AWARD only to those companies who are are using organic ingredients AND who are using some of the best practices in keeping Mother Earth safe too. Above we highlighted their wonderful use of organic and wildcrafted ingredients, here are some of the reasons about Fresh Organics manufacturing practices that makes them stand out from the norm:

• This lotion is MADE IN THE USA. Manufactured in Rocklin, CA.
• Their warehouse/plant is fully insulated and utilizes large body heat sinks to regulate temperature.
• They use passive solar lighting and climate control.
• Company vehicles use 100% non polluting electric power.
• All office practices use recycled materials, soy inks and they recycle or salvage all office products.
• All cleaning products used within their facilities are 100% natural, bio-degradable and are approved for use within certified organic facilities.
• Shampoo and Body Wash  is packaged in a 100% recyclable PE plastic squeeze bottle.

Honestly, this depth of integrity is not often followed through on so many levels.  So we are happy to shout out about Fresh Organics Baby Shampoo and Body Wash!

Toxic Ingredients That Hide In Baby Shampoo/Soap

Babies and children are at greater risk to the dangers of  chemicals that hide in skin care products. “Though its review of 23 peer-reviewed studies of cancer incidence from the past 50 years, EPA has determined that infants up to age two are, on average, ten times more vulnerable to carcinogenic chemicals than adults, and for some cancer-causing agents are up to 65 times more vulnerable. The Agency also found that children from age two to 15 are three times more vulnerable to carcinogens than adults. By incorporating these factors, the new risk assessment methods show that children accumulate up to 50% of their lifetime cancer risk by their second birthday.” 1

Wow!  That is serious. As a parent, any way we can minimize these factors plays a critical role in our baby’s health later in life.  Knowing how absorbent the largest organ of our children’s bodies are, their skin, lets look at how we can minimize dangerous exposure via skin care.

• Sodium Laurel Sulfates(SLS)/Sodium Laureth Sulfates (SLES)

This harmful ingredient, tagged as one of the most harmful ingredients in personal care products is used to give soaps, shampoos and toothpastes that sudsy, bubbly appeal. Not so appealing when you know of it’s potential dangers!  This irritant can be extremely harsh on the delicate skin of a baby/child and can keep their eyes from developing optimally. And according to the Journal of American College of Toxicology( Vol. 2, No. 7, 1983), SLS can damage the immune system; causing separation of skin layers and inflammation of skin.

The American College of Toxicology also states, “…both SLS and SLES can cause malformation in children’s eyes. Other research has indicated SLS may be damaging to the immune system, especially within the skin.”
Other studies have shown that through permeable skin sodium laurel sulfates can also penetrate into the heart, liver, lungs and brain!

Once you start reading your labels, you will notice how this stuff is lurking everywhere! Was it washed into your baby’s skin today?  On top of all of the cosmetic and baby products it is in, it is even found in car wash soaps, detergents, engine degreasers and garage floor cleaners! This stuff belongs NO WHERE NEAR our baby’s bodies!

• Parabens

Parabens come in multiple names, so look for anything ending in paraben on your baby’s labels. This ingredient is often used as a preservative. Of the studies that have been done, one or more studies show reproductive effects at very low doses, organ system toxicity, and developmental/reproductive toxicity!

• “Natural” Ingredients

Sounds healthy, right?  Unfortunately, this term is NOT regulated by the FDA. So don’t let it fool you.  Many products labeled “natural” actually have petrochemicals in them. And petroleum is a known carcinogenic.

• Phthalates

Phthalates has been making it’s name know for it’s dangers to the long term health of our babies. This potentially harmful man-made-chemical is often hidden in “fragrances” to help a fragrance stay on the skin longer.

• Fragrance

“The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health has found that one-third of the substances-both natural and synthetic-used in the fragrance industry are toxic. However, the FDA does not test cosmetics for safety. In addition, perfumes and fragrances can be allergenic. If allergies run in your family, you might want to take care not to expose your baby to potential allergens, including fragrances.” 2  Symptoms reported to the FDA have included headaches, dizziness, rashes, skin discoloration, violent coughing and vomiting, and allergic skin irritation . Clinical observation by medical doctors have shown that exposure to fragrances can affect the central nervous system, causing depression, hyperactivity, irritability, inability to cope, and other behavioral changes.

What We Love About This Organic Skin Care For Kids

This shampoo/soap smells delightful (botanically derived) and really makes for a sudsy soap!  You got to love a sudsy soap when you are cleaning your babes hair and little bodies.  It has actually doubles really well for a shaving soap for mama too!  Bubble delight.

I love that I enjoy using this soap as much on me as I do on my little girl.  Really makes it nice to keep our shower simple, not full of too many products.

The soap is like a gel, or a thicker liquid soap, and leaves our skin feeling fresh.  There is nothing harsh or powerful about this soap, just pure goodness that leaves delicate skin feeling conditioned and nourished.

This product is free of all the dangerous ingredients listed above!  No parabens, no sulfates, no petroleum, phthalates, artificial colors or fragrances.  This is an allergen free product too, no nut oils, gluten, soy or dairy here either.

Fresh Organics Conditioning Shampoo and Body Wash

This is a no tears shampoo that is allergy free! An 8-ounce flip top tube is on sale now for just $7.99 here!

1 Children’s Health Policy Review, http://www.ewg.org/node/8683, April 2, 2008.

2 Organic Consumers Association, Coming Clean, Organic Integrity In Bodycare Products, March 14, 2008, http://www.organicconsumers.org/bodycare/DioxaneAlert080314.pdf, March 30, 2008.

• Product Review: Earth Mama Angel Baby Shampoo and Body Wash
• Product Review: Dr. Bronner’s Baby Soap
• Product Review: ErbaOrganics
• Product Review: A Little Something For Baby’s Suitcase by EMAB
• Safe, Non-toxic, and Really Natural Hand Soap for Baby and Child
• A Rich Organic Baby Lotion That The Average Income Can Afford!
• Paraben and Sulfate-free Bubble Bath for Baby and Toddler
• Safbaby’s Next Give Away: Win A Earth Mama Angel Baby Kit
• The Importance of Safe and Non-Toxic Skin Care Products for Baby and Child
• Product Review: Earth Mama Angel Baby Bottom Balm
• Father’s Day Aligns With Summer Solstice, Organic Skin Care for just $20!
• Hand Sanitizer that Kills 99.9% Germs Without Toxic Synthetic Chemicals
• This Skin Care Is Our Pick For Pregnant Moms and All Moms This Mother’s Day
• Anti-bacterials hiding in everyday products are toxic to our children!
• Is Tap Water Safe For My Baby?

This is a must read book for all parents who desire to make an educated choice about how to (or not to) vaccinate their child.  A Parents’ Conscious Guide To Childhood Vaccinations is wonderfully written by Lauren Feder, M.D., a nationally recognized physician who specializes in holistic health and is board certified in homeopathic medicine.  This is an easy-to-read book that offers practical medical AND natural ways to protect your child.

Dr. Feder says it best when she wrote, “Whatever your decision regarding vaccinations, the goal is always the same:  to raise happy and healthy children who are able to blossom and reach their potential in life.”  That is the truth!  And, now thanks to this book, parents have a tool to help them look at their child as an individual, not a number.  The information in this book eases the confusion and frustration as to how to wisely choose a safe approach in vaccinating or not.  The “pro-informed-choice” is the best choice when it comes to all of the parenting choices we make, Childhood Vaccinations educates parents on the topic of vaccinations with wisdom and expertise.

If your wondering, “What’s right for my child?” this book is for you!

A Look Inside Childhood Vaccinations

The contents of this book are broken down into 7 chapters that are very easy to follow.   The information in each chapter is priceless for parents, priceless!  I learned so much, and the way it was all laid out and presented was really easy to digest.  Wonderfully written and easy to get through.

Chapter 1:  The Natural Parenting Approach to Health. “Knowing how to act as the first line of defense against illness for your child is the best way to keep them active, happy and healthy” says Dr. Feder.  This chapter gives both conventional and holistic perspectives on illnesses.  We love that this book takes a look from both of these perspectives.

Chapter 2:  The Immune System and Vaccinations.

Chapter 3:  Pro-Vaccination and Anti-Vaccination Viewpoints.  Again, Dr. Feder addresses both sides of the debate here.  She addresses many important statements around the vaccination debate, and gives the viewpoint from both sides.  She gives these view points on statements such as:   “a vaccine is prepared in such a way that it is similar to the illness but not dangerous, mercury toxicity is no longer an issue, some of the vaccine components such as aborted human tissue raise ethical issues” and more!  This section ends with a great graph showing  the inactive ingredient in vaccines.  This graph tells why these inactive ingredients are in the vaccine, and what their adverse effects are.  Now this is the information that we don’t ever get told about!

Chapter 4:  The Role of Government, Pharmaceutical Companies, and Insurance. I was blown away by the info in this short chapter.  Learn the FDAs and the CDCs role, the income that physicians generate from vaccines, and the compensation program that protects the vaccine companies in this chapter.

Chapter 5:  Childhood and Adolescent Vaccines and Recommended Immunization Schedule. This chapter reviews each vaccine in the Recommended Vaccination Schedule, describing the effects of both the diseases and the vaccination intended to prevent them. Dr. Feder also gives ideas of how to gauge your child’s risk of getting each illness and developing complications, as well as his/her own risk for adverse side effects from the vaccine. Priceless!

Chapter 6:  Alternatives to the Standard Vaccine Schedule. No vaccinations, selective shot schedules, exemptions from the standard schedule and homeopathic alternatives to vaccines are all the main topics here!

Chapter 7:  The Safe Shot Strategy. If you decided to vaccinate, making sure your child is in good health at the time of giving the shot is important.  This chapter gives a great check list, Dr. Feder’s Safe Shot Strategy, to prevent or at least minimize any possible adverse effects from the shot.  Additionally, she gives info on how to recognize vaccine reactions if they happen.  A section on natural treatment to strengthen the immune system and the how-to’s of administering homeopathic remedies make this chapter an amazing addition to this awesome book!

Conclusion:  What’s Right for My Child? I love how this book considers each child as an individual with individual needs.  Additionally, giving both sides justice makes it a book for all!

Childhood Vaccination by Dr. Feder

To purchase this book from Amazon for $10.36, click here.

• A Safe Shot Strategy for Parents Who Choose to Vaccinate
• Product Review: Dr. Jay Gordon’s DVD – Vaccinations? Assessing the Risks and Benefits
• Government Asks Flu Shots For ALL Children
• The Vaccine-Autism Connection: The Debate Is Far From Over
• Safe Alternatives To Swine Flu Vaccinations For Our Children
• What Pregnant Moms and Parents Need to Know About Fish and Mercury
• Understanding Infection and Your Baby: How Treatment Today Effects Their Long Term Health

What feels better in the winter time than a warm, sudsy bubble bath?  They are so much fun, but sadly enough many bubble baths on the market for our kids are full of toxic chemicals.  Doesn’t put such a smile on my face to steep my child in a tub full of preservatives, synthetic fragrances and bubbling agents that are known to damage the immune system.

So, what’s a conscious parent to do?  NOT give up on the luxury of bubble bath time!

We love Fresh Organics Calming Bubble Bath, free of sodium lauryl/laureth sulfates, parabens, petroleum, phthalates, artificial fragrances and colors and free of nut oils, gluten, soy and dairy!  And if all of that doesn’t make you bubble up inside with joy, wait till you hear how affordable this stuff is.

First, lets dissect a few of the harmful ingredients that are in most bubble bath products that you find in a big box store….

Dangerous Toxins In Bubble Bath

Almost all commercial bubble baths use Cocamide DEA and Sodium Laureth or Lauryl Sulphate as foaming agents and some form of Glycol solvent. Also most contain artificial colors and fragrances and also Triethanolamine. All these chemicals have been linked to serious health risks. Organic Baby Calming Bubble contains no harmful chemicals. It is dye and fragrance free and utilizes more expensive and gentler foaming agents. They also use a very safe preservative system that contains no Parabens, formaldehyde or other suspected carcinogens.

So, here’s a little more info on the dangers of a few of these toxins that you WON’T find in Fresh Organics:

• Sodium Lauryl/Laureth Sulfates (SLS/SLES): This harmful ingredient, tagged as one of the most harmful ingredients in personal care products is used to give soaps, shampoos and toothpastes that sudsy, bubbly appeal. Not so appealing when you know of it’s potential dangers!  This irritant can be extremely harsh on the delicate skin of a baby/child and can keep their eyes from developing optimally.  And according to the Journal of American College of Toxicology ( Vol. 2, No. 7, 1983), SLS can damage the immune system; causing separation of skin layers and inflammation of skin.  The American College of Toxicology also states, “…both SLS and SLES can cause malformation in children’s eyes. Other research has indicated SLS may be damaging to the immune system, especially within the skin.”  Other studies have shown that through permeable skin sodium laurel sulfates can also penetrate into the heart, liver, lungs and brain!  Once you start reading your labels, you will notice how this stuff is lurking everywhere!  Was it washed into your baby’s skin today?  Not if your using Fresh Organics!
• Cocamide DEA: Another popular foaming agent that is a known hormone disruptor and carcinogenic.  Causes yeast infections and skin irritations, so who the heck wants to soak in this?
• Synthetic Fragrances: And according to Debra Lynn Dadd in her book Home Safe Home, fragrance on a label can indicate the presence of up to 4,000 separate ingredients. Most or all of them are synthetic. Symptoms reported to the FDA have included headaches, dizziness, rashes, skin discoloration, violent coughing and vomiting, and allergic skin irritation . Clinical observation by medical doctors have shown that exposure to fragrances can affect the central nervous system, causing depression, hyperactivity, irritability, inability to cope, and other behavioral changes.  Ummm, no thank you.
• Parabens: Parabens come in multiple names, so look for anything ending in paraben on your baby’s labels. This ingredient is often used as a preservative. Of the studies that have been done, one or more studies show reproductive effects at very low doses, organ system toxicity, and developmental/reproductive toxicity!

We also have to mention that a baby’s delicate skin is even MORE ABSORBENT to these toxins than us adults. They are just so vulnerable to all of this harmful exposure.  Please know what really is in the bath products you use on your baby and child.

SAFBAby Green Award Winner

Yeah!  Fresh Organics did it again!  They have earned our most prestigious award, our GREEN AWARD, for this funtastic bubble bath!  Their first product that we gave a serious thumbs up to was their Babee Lotion, check that review out here if you have not already.

SAFbaby’s sister site, MomApprovedChildTested.com, awards only the companies and products that meet our strict safety standards, and our personal testing procedures.  We love the smell of this product (organic lavender essential oil and sweet orange essential oils), yummmmmm.  Also, the bubbles are wonderfully sudsy and last for a good deal of time.

Organic Baby Calming Bubble math makes it bubbly fun to clean and soothe your child.  Organic aloe vera and shea butter replenish moisture and protect against dryness and most all the ingredients are plant derived!

But, that is not all!  Here are a few more pointers as to why Fresh Organics Bubble Bath has won our GREEN AWARD:

• Certified Organic: Made using certified organic and wild crafted ingredients.  The total included certified organic ingredients exceeds 95% of the total possible.  Organic Baby products are certified in accordance with the National Science Foundation organic standard.
• No animal products, no animal testing: Organic Baby is a cruelty-free company.
• MADE IN THE USA:  Manufactured in Rocklin, CA.
• Packaged in a 100% recyclable PE plastic squeeze bottle.
• The behind the scenes office and energy practices of this company are eco-friendly.  Find out more here.
  

Organic and Safe Bubble Bath

Fresh Organics has formulated an allergen free, safe bubble bath for your organic baby and child that is free of nasty sulfates, parabens, artificial colors/fragrances and only full of good stuff.  They are having a sale on site, and right now an 8 fl. oz. tube is just $7.99.

We live on an island, so it’s no surprise that it is VERY important to me that my child knows how to swim.  Regardless of where we live, having the freedom to enjoy water and be SAFE around it is something that every parent wishes for their children.  True?

So, when we heard of Schlori Swim Cushions, a 100% pure cotton “floaty” recommended by Germany’s foremost swimming schools we were interested.  Most swim floaties here in the USA are made of PVC.  Yuck!  Knowing that  “phthalates leach from PVC toys like water from a wet sponge,” doesn’t make the typical arm floaties so appealing.  Also, this product uses Oko-Tex certified fabric, so no nasty formaldehydes or other harmful substances in this cotton.

Not only that, but arm swimmies, life vests and tubes are truly more of a crutch than a tool for learning how to swim properly.  As opposed to offering a false sense of security in the pool or ocean, Schlori’s PVC-Free swim cushions place the body into a natural position for swimming while giving the greatest possible freedom of movement.  This makes the practicing of the unhindered swimming motion possible, and fun!

100% Pure Cotton Swimmies

So this is how it works:  Fold in a corner of one of the square cotton pieces, and blow it up.  The cloth inflates and voila, set up is complete.  Then simply adjust the strap size to fit your child, align strap under the breasts, and tie in the back.  The cushions will be positioned right behind the arms.

What age child/size child do they fit? This is a one-size-fits-all swim cushion!  Babies, children and adults all use the same size, adjusting the buckle is all that needs to be done.

Schlori Swim Cushions are made of a particularly strong and durable natural fiber and are salt, chlorinated and thermal water resistant.  Additionally, this material is from companies processing the certificate “Oko-Tex Standard 100″.  For a product to earn an Oko-Tex Seal, it has to pass stringent ecological testing for over 100 harmful substances including pesticides, formaldehyde, mercury, lead and plenty more.   There are no damage prone plugs or vents either!

Learning To Swim

My daughter has been in swimming lessons for about 8 weeks, 2 days a week.  I sure wish we would have got her into these classes sooner.  She enjoys being in the water now, and even comes up from going under the water with a smile on her face these days.  That being said, she still is not a swimmer.  So when she really took to these floaties I was excited.  What I really like about them is that they keep her buoyant but she still has to kick and can use her arms to keep her up.  It makes her buoyant enough to feel safe, but she is learning how to use her body to swim!  Me or her daddy are always right there near her, but we don’t have to be touching her.  She feels she is really accomplishing something to, and “facing her fears” successfully!

A little product history:  The swim instructor Marga Jenner created the first Schlori Swim Cushions in 1936 in Berlin.  She taught exclusively in her own tried and true method and initally used the cusions only with hre own students.  The cushions have now been produced by the Jenner family for over 50 years.

Peace Love Organic Earth

One of our respected Approved Vendors, Peace Love Organic Earth, offers these 100% pure cotton swimmies here for $28.00.

On February 4, 2009 we posted our first version of this article regarding which clothing companies do and do NOT treat their clothing with formaldehyde.  We have received quite a few emails from parents on this one, and even some who have shared helpful information with us!   Additionally, some companies who did not respond in the past to us have finally answered our questions, so we are re-posting this today with many updates and clarifications.

Companies who do not answer with a clear “NO, we don’t use formaldehyde” and say “we are compliant with all CPSC regulations” (for your information there are NONE for formaldehyde!) most likely use Formaldehyde in their children’s clothing.

Please let us know of any other children’s clothing company who possibly uses chemicals in their clothing!

Formaldehyde is a popular “cheap” chemical used  in clothing, shoes, furniture, fertilizer paper, toys, cosmetics and food.

Our recent article on formaldehyde in children’s clothing gave details on how long-term exposure and high concentrations of formaldehyde can lead to cancer.  And to think we cloak our children in this daily!

In our article, we reported about our concern with the USA not having any safety standards in place when it comes to formaldehyde limits in textiles.  Unlike other countries like Japan, Austria, Finland, Germany, Norway, Netherlands and others who are already ahead of us on this issue.

So, in order to help parents make wise shopping choices, we have contacted many of the most popular clothing stores, and manufacturers, to find out if they use formaldehyde in their clothing.

Some of them responded within 24 hours and gave us a clear answer.  But, others did not!  What really surprised us is that most companies could NOT give us an answer, and some did not even get back to us.  Only 3 companies of about 20 sent us a clear response very promptly.

Formaldehyde-Free Clothing Companies

• Hanna Anderson

  “Hanna does not add any type of chemicals to our clothing, so we do not have any type of wrinkle-free chemical. However, the nature of most of the fabrics we choose are very care free!” - Char M  Hanna Andersson Customer Service
  
  SAFbaby’s comment: Love the quick response and a big fan of their great quality clothing. 60% of their clothes are Oeko tex certified which means that garments are tested for over 100 harmful substances. Another plus, most of their clothes are made of organic cotton! Way to go Hanna Andersson!

• Carter’s & Oshkosh B’Gosh

  “We do not use any chemicals at all in our garments.” -Mary, Consumer Affairs, Carter’s / Oshkosh B’Gosh

  SAFbaby’s comment: Short and clear! However, we contacted them again regarding their tagless labels and what chemicals are used.Their new labels are said to pose no health risks, but Carter’s 2007 fall line did, see our article on this topic.

  Another response from Carters to one of our reader’s question “if Carter’s does not put any chemicals on their clothes, why do they reek of that “new clothes smell?”

  Carter’s Response:

  “Thank you for your recent email. All fabrics (including organic) have to be treated with some type of softener to be able to sew. These softeners can leave an odor. We do not wash most of the styles prior to selling and we label our garments “wash before wear”.

  I hope this answers your readers questions.”

  Sincerely,
  Mary
  Consumer Affairs
  Carter’s / Oshkosh B’Gosh

Use Formaldehyde or Insufficient Response

• Gap

  “GapShield uses nanotechnology to help resist spills and repel and release stains. For more information visit www.nano-tex.com.

  This is a stain resistant finish that belongs to the general family of fluoropolymers. It also must meet our standards for formaldehyde. While formaldehyde is not regulated in apparel in the US, Gap Inc. follows global standards limiting formaldehyde to extremely small amounts. You can feel confident in advising customers that we have low-to-no formaldehyde in all of our clothing.

  Safety is one of our top priorities at Gap Inc. We do all we can to make sure our products are safe to all consumers and have a history of setting standards that meet or exceed the legal requirements for our merchandise. We have pre-approved, independent laboratories where we have our vendors send products for testing before we sell them in our stores and online. We also have a Product Safety team who manage our testing programs and make sure we are up to date on international safety and regulatory standards.

  Gap Inc. restricts several chemicals, including formaldehyde, lead, and carcinogenic dyes. We strive to ensure our products are safe for our customers and their children (and pets). Our tagless tees are PVC , Saline and Phthalates free.

  We hope you find this information helpful. If we may be of further assistance, our Customer Service Consultants are available 24 hours a day at custserv@gap.com or by calling 1-800-GAP-STYLE.” - Andrea, Customer Service Consultant at Gap
  
  One of our readers posted this comment:
  Hi all, I just wanted to let you know that Old Navy, Gap, Etc. Do Have a lot of icky stuff on them. I worked at an Old Navy on the shipment team, and when they opened the boxes, the smell was horrendous! I asked my boss about it and she said there were a lot of chemicals(including formaldehyde) to keep the bugs off during the shipment. I hope this helps some who are wondering about the gap brand.

  Another mom shared her ‘Gap’ experience with us:
  “I recently purchased some clothing from the Gap and Old Navy. It reeked of sulfur and chemicals, even after 4 washes the smell wasn’t entirely gone. Worse yet, after 4 washes (I gave up) my daughter broke out in a horrific pimple-like rash all over her legs after wearing one of the pairs of pants. It’s interesting the chemicals they *don’t* use in their clothing, but more interesting to me would be the ones they do use, because I am appalled and feel like a terrible mother for ever having allowed their clothing to touch her precious skin.”

  SAFbaby’s comment: We were impressed with Gap’s prompt response (within 24 hours). After we asked some more questions, we got a reply immediately. It shows that product safety is very important and they meet stricter global formaldehyde standards but wish they would use a safer alternative to Formaldehyde.
  

• Babystyle

  “At this point we do not use nanotechnology on our own private label babystyle branded products.” – Ana, The customer Care Team, Babystyle

  SAFbaby’s comment: We contacted Babystyle twice to ask if they use formaldehyde or any other chemicals in their clothing but no response so far.

• Children’s Place

  “Thank you for contacting Customer Service with your question. I apologize for the delayed response. Regarding the formaldehyde. Formaldehyde in apparel and textiles is not regulated by Consumer Product Safety Commission or by US gov’t so testing is not required. It can be tested but there is no set criteria as to what level is acceptable. TCP has applied the standards used by some of the European countries and will test specific fabrications where we feel there may be a chance of formaldehyde used in the processing of the fabric. Regarding the nanotechnology – at this time none of our vendors or suppliers are using nano technology in their production process. If the child is sensitive to chemicals in the environment, you may need to consider checking out web sites to find stores that specialize in children’s clothing made form all organic cotton with minimal processing. We sincerely hope we have answered your question. If we can be of further assistance please contact us at 1-877 PLACE USA or visit us at http://www.childrensplace.com.”- Jennifer

  One of our readers (see comment below) said this: Children’s Place answered after several attempts and said that all their yarns are treated!

  SAFbaby’s comment: We contacted Children’s Place many times and finally got an answer. Another company that used formaldehyde!
  

• Gymboree

  “Thanks for your inquiry.  Gymboree uses an independent third party to test all of Gymboree’s products for substances including lead, formaldehyde, phthalates, and many others.  The standards we set for our products currently meet or exceed those set by the CPSC and applicable state laws.” – Mark, Gymboree

  SAFbaby’s comment: Here is the email we replied to Gymboree “There are no standards set on formaldehyde, so we assume that it’s in your clothing. Correct? Could we see your third party test?” We have emailed Gymboree several times but did not get a reply to our second question.

• Naartjie

  Naartjie never replied to our emails but responded to on of our reader’s email:

  “Thanks for your email. We have been testing for formaldehyde since 2002, and take great care to comply with all the child safety standards. Because 97% of our clothing is “garment-dyed”, it is washed three times, so will not have any chemicals or residue on the fabric, and is also soft and pre-shrunk. We appreciate your email, and rest assured that you can buy our clothing without concern about formaldehyde or other harmful chemicals.”

  SAFbaby’s comment: Glad one of our readers received a response from them! They don’t say no chemicals are used but they claim they’re all washed away. To be sure their clothes are free of Formaldehyde, we need a “Yes, ALL our clothes are FREE of Formaldehyde” statement.
  

• Disney

  “Thank you for your recent inquiry regarding licensing and producing or selling Disney merchandise.  We do not have have a phone number or  contact person to provide you.  To receive information, all requests  should be written in letter format and sent to the address provided  below. To obtain more information, please send your request to the address below.” – The Walt Disney Company Merchandising
  

  SAFbaby’s comment: This was Disney’s second response after letting us know the first time that they  are compliant with all CPSC regulations.  However, CPSC has NO regulations set for formaldehyde levels, so that reply was not helpful to us in the slightest.  We are not impressed with their follow up response to us.

• Babies R Us

  “Thank you for contacting Babies R Us regarding your item inquiry.  I sincerely apologize that I do not have an ingredient list available to me.  I suggest that you contact the manufacture, Amy Coe, at 203-227-9900.If you have any further questions or concerns please contact our customer service line at 1-800-869-7787.” – The Guest Relations Team at Baby R Us

  SAFBaby’s comment: Left message with this number that was never returned.

  Email from Toys R Us after we published this article:
  At Toys“R”Us, Inc., the safety of our customers is, and always has been, our highest priority. We have a very strict safety assurance program in place for all the products we carry. We require that any product we purchase complies with all applicable government and industry laws, codes and requirements.  While formaldehyde is not regulated in infant apparel in the United States, Toys“R”Us, Inc. requires that apparel sold exclusively in its Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us stores meet a more stringent standard than required globally.  Manufacturers of the company’s exclusive brands, which includes the Amy Coe line, are held accountable for meeting these standards and are required to show documentation of third-party testing.  For additional information on the product safety standards at Toys“R”Us, Inc., please visit our dedicated Safety microsite, www.Toysrus.com/Safety.

• Circo Brand / Target

  I’m sorry to hear that the information provided on the product description page was not enough to answer your questions. Unfortunately, right now, all of the information we have about Circo Brand clothing is right on our website. I know that it can be difficult to figure out what you want to order without more information, and I’m sorry if we’ve let you down. Your comments are a big help to us, and I’ll make sure to share them with our team that works with our product information.Thanks for getting in touch with us. I hope you’ll visit us again soon. - Target.com Guest Service
  

  SAFbaby’s comment: feeling let down at this point, but not thinking anyone really cares!

• Pottery Barn
  

  We had no luck getting a response but one of our readers says this:

  “Pottery Barn uses formaldehyde for their beddings since they claim that they uses Easy-Care finishing (which is a mixture of urea and formaldehyde). I wrote them to ask about their Oeko-Tex certification and did not get an answer. They say that the fibers are certified but the final product is treated with Easy-care, and I concluded that the final product is not Oeko-Tex certified. Of course, they did not say anything which I assume I am right.”

  SAFbaby’s comment: No response to us by Pottery Barn!
  

Help us take action today!  Sign Safbaby’s petition to ask President Barack Obama to restrict/label formaldehyde use in textiles.

Post photo: Organic cotton (formaldehyde free!!) Jeppers Creepers by Hanna Anderson

• Lead-Free, PVC-Free and Fire Retardant-Free Toy Manufacturers
• Toxic Formaldehyde Hides In Children’s Clothing and Bedding
• Helping To Make Safe Toy Shopping Easier This Christmas
• Investigating The True Story On Toxic Toys In America
• Find Out Why the New Product Safety Law (CPSIA) Will NOT Protect Your Child
• Toxins Have Us Running For Eco-Friendly Baby and Kid Shoes
• CPSC Toy Safety Law Keeps Our Kids Safer, Keeping Phthalates Off The Shelves
• What Do All The Marks and Symbols On Toy Packages Mean?
• 80,000 Chemicals! Join Erin Brockovich and Seventh Generation to Demand Change
• Non-toxic Crib Mattress: Organic doesn’t mean safer!
• Is Bamboo Clothing for Baby Natural and Chemical Free?
• Decrease world poverty, buy organic cotton clothing for your baby!
• Eco-friendly ‘Green’ Shoes, From Shoe to Packaging, For Baby and Toddler
• Eco-friendly Leather Shoes With Natural Rubber Soles and High Standards
• Naturepedic’s Organic Cotton Mattress: Wool Free and Latex Free

Most parents are making the switch to from questionably safe plastics made with BPA, to ones that are BPA-free.  Really, it seems to be the craze, but not without reason.  BPA is a  hormone disrupting chemical, it acts like an estrogen in the body and is toxic at even low doses.  A very sensitive time to be exposed to this toxic chemical is during pregnancy and very early in life..

So, if you are looking for the safest alternative in a plastic baby bottle, we think we have found it.  All thinkbaby™ products are free of Bisphenol-A (BPA), PVC, Phthalates, Lead, Melamine, Nitrosamines, and toxic chemicals.

thinkbaby™ has a product line of polypropylene and PES baby bottles, a sippy cup and a wonderful “conversion kit” product that allows parents to easily transform their thinkbaby bottles into trainer cups to continue to the next stage of feeding.  Furthermore, their nipples are made of a high grade silicone and have been specially designed to reduce colic, reduce the risk of mid-ear infections and prevents leaking!  So, let us tell you what the moms and babies who tested these bottles thought…..

We had 3 moms test these bottles that stated they would continue using them all the way through to the final stage (the sippy cup stage)!  The way that thinkbaby™ has built this system of bottles that actually transform into a sippy cup as the baby grows is ingenious!  We love that idea!  What a perfect way to reduce, reuse and recycle too!

BPA Free Baby Bottle With Positive Reviews

Some of the feedback that mothers gave us that will be helpful for others in deciding on safe baby bottles follow:

“The nipple shape on the think bottles were much more similar to the natural nipple which I actually would use those bottles for baby number two, if I do have trouble nursing again.  It maybe easier to go back and forth between bottle and breast.  I liked the shape of the bottles much better than the ones that I am using now.”

“I really like that the bottles and nipples follow such strict standards in regards to the chemicals.  That is something that I really do like to know.  The price of the bottles are reasonable and slightly cheaper than the bottles that I use now.”

“Yes, we tried the bottle and very much like them.  They do not leak at all, either the regular nipple or the cross cut ones, which that itself is a great improvement over my current  bottles which leak all the time and drive me crazy!  I also really like the bottle shape as it makes it really easy for my baby’s hands to hold it.   In general, it’s been great using these brand, the BPA free plastic gives me peace of mind and the functional non leak aspect gives me one less thing to worry about.  I would definitely stay with this brand.”

Anti Colic and No Spill Nipples

thinkbaby™ bottles have three stages of nipples (Slow, Medium and Fast), and again they are all made of high grade silicone.  From our testing, we have found that these nipples are AGE SPECIFIC and a parent should follow these GUIDELINES  to choose a nipple that will work PERFECTLY for your baby:

Slow Flow 0 months to 3 months
Medium Flow 3 months to 6 months
Fast Flow 6 months to one year

Once you choose your flow rate, refine your specific needs with an additional choice of  2 different types of nipple choices (single hole or cross cut).

Single hole: The single hole flow allows for a continuous flow of liquid.

Cross Cut: Makes the bottle NO SPILL!

BOTH SYSTEMS (Single Hole and Cross Cut) HAVE A PATENTED ANTI COLIC DESIGN.

‘Mom Approved – Child Tested’ Excellent Award Winner

We are impressed with the stringent research and detail that has gone into the design of these bottles and sippy cups.  Also, thinkbaby’s conversion kit has won our hearts! Instead of having to toss out 8 to 16 baby bottles after year one, simply transform the bottle into a BPA-free Sippy Cup and extend the life of your baby bottles.  What a genius way to to save money and eliminate excess environmental waste.

Check the CONVERSION KIT out here.

Additionally, we have even MORE “Likes” from our testing moms.  Here are their comments:

• The shape of the bottles. The hour glass figure made it really easy for my 6 month old baby to hold the bottle by himself (which he has never done before).

• The cross cut nipple. The nipple was very soft, he took to it easily. Normally if I try to give him the bottle he fights it. When using the bottle he drank it as if he were suckling from my breast.

• It took the same amount of time to drink 6oz from the bottle as it does my breasts. Normally, when he drinks form the bottle he drinks it so fast it leaves him wanting more. So I give him more and he ends up spitting up the excess milk out.

• The anti colic design:  After using the bottle he did not seem to have any gas. Normally he needs to be burped right away.

• Easy to clean and sanitize. (The nipple was easy to pull out.)

“I would definitely recommend this bottle to other parents. And I am going to continue using the Think Baby bottle for my current child and future children.”

Baby Bottles and Conversion Kits can be purchased online at  ThinkBabyBottles.com

5 oz bottle twin pack is $15.99 (includes Stage I anti-colic slow flow nipple for 0 to 3 months)

9 oz bottle twin pack is $16.99 (includes Stage I anti-colic slow flow nipple for 0 to 3 months)

The Conversion Kit is $ 6.99 (includes two spouts and one trainer cup handle)

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