Green baby care

So I think the best way to 'green' your baby in their first year is to not believe the hype! We're told again and again to keep our babies scrubbed clean, slathered with diaper creams and doused with baby powder - not true! The best thing for your baby and for the environment is to go 'au naturel'! Cut down on the amount of creams, lotions, wipes and other products you're buying and you're already contributing to a healthier planet by cutting down on the impact of their production and disposal. Here are a few ways to go natural with your baby's body care:

- Most babies don't need to be bathed every day. Sponge bathing the dirtiest areas is enough and a full bath can be given two or three times per week. This will cut down on the amount of water you are using. Also, if your baby has dry skin, especially coming into the winter months, cutting down on the amount you bathe them may help with clearing it up.

- A baby's delicate skin doesn't need soap of any kind. Warm water should do it!

- Skip the baby powder! It's unnecessary and its known to be harmful to baby lungs.

- Babies don't need antibacterial soap and wipes. The chemicals that go into these products inhibit the development of their natural resistance and may actually end up creating resistant bacteria!

- Babies do not require constant smothering with diaper creams and lotions. The best preventative measure you can take is frequent diaper changes and a good healthy dose of fresh air!

If you feel that you do want to use products on your baby, look for organic and natural products like Burt's Bees. Be careful of products that contain artificial colours, fragrances, preservatives, and chemicals. Most health food stores will carry great products and try The Big Carrot on the Danforth as well - they have a tonne of natural baby products.