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Natural Baby Care

Natural baby care is the practice of treating your baby as the holistic being that they are by only using natural and organic products on their skin and avoiding pharmaceuticals when possible. It is also a way of life, one that respects the environment by reducing waste and seeks to avoid chemicals, pesticides and other toxins. Natural baby care doesn’t only cover the physical aspects of your baby’s health, but the emotional aspects too.

Your baby’s skin is sensitive and porous, which means that they can absorb toxins, chemicals and pathogens through the skin faster than any adult could. It is important to keep their skin protected at all times by using natural and organic baby lotion, soap, nappy cream, sunscreen and shampoo. You can also use coconut oil as a natural rash cream.

The first few years of life are crucial for a child to develop natural immunity. Pesticides, chemicals and toxins may disrupt this process by altering the quality of their natural intestinal flora. Whether you are still breast-feeding or not, give your baby only purified water, homemade juice and herbal teas. Feed them organic fruit and vegetables where possible and shop according to the Environmental Working Group’s Dirty Dozen.

When shopping for your baby’s clothes you would be wise to buy only organic cotton clothing. As it is made from organic crops and is not processed and bleached, it is toxin-free, lasts longer and doesn’t irritate the skin.

The debate between cloth and disposable nappies is on-going. One offers convenience while creating waste, and the other reduces waste but can be time consuming and messy. Using organic, bio-degradable nappies could be the answer. These nappies are made without any irritating chemicals and are non-allergenic so your baby’s skin will be protected. They are made with bio-degradable material and are also much more absorbant so you will be using less of them. All of this makes for a happier baby and healthier environment.

Baby slings are becoming more popular and they can help you avoid big and expensive baby carriers and strollers. Studies have shown that babies who are held often are less fussy and baby slings are a wonderful way to keep your baby close to you for bonding and can help you have your hands free while carrying your bundle of joy around. They are also useful for carrying toddlers, especially if they are sad and need to be close to mom.

Sources
http://www.naturalchild.org/guest/laura_simeon.html
http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/top-tips-for-safer-products/#babies_children
http://www.organic.org/articles/showarticle/article-252
http://www.expectantmothersguide.com/articles/the-benefits-of-organic-baby-clothing/