Eco Pregnancy and Baby

Should you use green cleaners when you’re pregnant? We know it’s the chemicals in cleaners that really get the job done. But when you’re pregnant, it’s even more important to know what to avoid. The problem is cleaning products don’t have to be tested, there are no federal requirements, so consumers have no official warning [...]

You may have heard of the controversy over the chemicals in some kitchen storage containers, plastic baby bottles and baby toys. Government regulators assure us these products are safe, even for pregnant women and infants. But concerned scientists and environmental groups disagree, citing years of disturbing results from research conducted on lab animals. We can’t [...]

When you’re pregnant or caring for a newborn, you need all the sleep you can get. Thinking about toxic chemicals in your bed linens won’t keep you up nights-if you go organic. To minimize toxins: “Sheets shouldn’t be permanent-press or made with nylon or synthetic materials,” say Deirdre Dolan and Alexandra Zissu, co-authors of The [...]

Sometimes you just can’t avoid toxins — they’re everywhere, even in the air you breathe. But here are a few tips for limiting your exposure as much as possible. Increase ventilation whenever possible and consider investing in an air purifier. Keep windows and doors open to release pollutants when vacuuming, dusting, frying, painting or folding [...]

Ever wonder what’s in the air you breathe in your home? Can it affect your health or the baby growing inside you? “Indoor pollutants are often more hazardous than those outside,” says Ted Schettler, M.D., M.P.H., science director of the Science and Environmental Health Network and co-author of In Harm’s Way: Toxic Threats to Child [...]

Whether you’re giving your existing home office an environmental upgrade or setting up an office for the first time, you’re already saving energy by not driving to work. You may also avoid common workplace toxins, but even a home office can be hazardous. Here’s how to make steps in the right direction. {GREEN} Create a [...]

New carpet can emit harmful chemicals from carpet fibers, backing material and adhesives, dyes and fire retardants. If you’re buying new carpeting, ask the installer to air out the rolls for 24 hours before installation. Open the windows for ventilation and, if possible, stay out of the room until the air clears (48 to 72 [...]

Cameras, cellphones, computers and video equipment help you capture precious moments in your newborn’s life. But upgrading to new electronics may mean adding more e-waste to the environment. Some simple steps to take before buying new products: Check to see if the manufacturer of your old electronics offers a recycling program and look for electronics [...]

On of the greenest choices in furniture is recycling furniture from somewhere else — your grandmother or that cute little antique store downtown. That way you’ll help reduce the environmental load in landfills and your bank account. Be careful, though, because family heirlooms, such as antique rocking chairs or cribs, won’t meet current safety standards [...]

If there’s ever a better time to go green than when you’re pregnant, it’s when you’re trying to get pregnant. Here are 7 ways to get started going green to make your baby’s first environment (your body!) as safe as possible. Test your home for toxins. If your house is harboring lead paint, radon, or [...]