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mindy pennybacker

Mindy Pennybacker
Family Health and Our Environment


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What are good/safe baby products, brand names and/or ingredients (shampoo, soap, lotion)?

Using natural and organic products is a great way to start your babies and children on the road to healthier, chemical-free lives. It’s especially important on baby skin because their sensitive skin is five times thinner than an adult’s and, obviously, much more prone to irritation from synthetic ingredients, which are used to color and scent products and to create lather in soaps.

When shopping for baby products, look for products without lanolin, often derived from sheep’s wool. Unless advertised as “pesticide free,” lanolin contains high concentrations of neuro-toxic pesticides which are absorbed through the skin. Talc has received a great deal of press in recent years because of its carcinogenic properties, so it too should be avoided. Cornstarch powder has emerged as one alternative to talc, but in general, powders should be used as little as possible to save your baby’s lungs. Babies inhale these powders, which can lead to respiratory irritations like asthma.

In particular, avoid antibacterial agents and detergents, namely sodium lauryl sulfate, which irritate the skin and are absorbed into the body, posing threats to your baby’s health. Other skin irritants come in the form of synthetic fragrances, which according to the American Academy of Dermatology, are the number one cause of allergic reactions in cosmetics. Look for “fragrance-free” products or ones scented with essential oils, though these too can provoke allergic responses in some users. Manufacturers are not required to list the ingredients used in “fragrance,” but common ingredients to avoid also include neuro-toxic toluene; methylethyl-ketone and ethyl alcohol, which are common eye and throat irritants; and diethanolamine (listed as DEA or TEA) which causes skin irritation and interacts with nitrite preservatives. Also steer clear of DMDM hydantoin, diazolidinyl urea, imidazolidinyl urea and quaternium-15, all of which contain formaldehyde in its liquid state. Formaldehyde is “reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen,” according to the National Toxicology Program's “Ninth Report on Carcinogens” (January 2001). The EPA classifies it as a probable human carcinogen.

Of particular concern to babies and mothers both are parabens, often used as preservatives, and phthalates. Parabens ensure that the products do not become contaminated with bacteria; however, consumers should note the choice of preservatives since many can have adverse effects. Parabens, including methyl-, butyl-, ethyl-, and propyl-, often cause skin irritation, and there is concern that parabens may be linked to the development of breast cancer. Phthalates, a family of chemical plasticizers that are used in personal care products to moisturize skin and as a solvent, are almost synonymous with fragrance. Phthalates have been shown to cause birth defects, reproductive impairments and liver damage in lab animals.

Here’s a list of Green Guide picks for your baby. Be careful, however, when using plant oils on skin as sensitive as a baby’s. Some plant oils, nut oils especially, can cause allergic reactions.

  • Earth Mama Angel Baby (www.earthmamaangelbaby.com): shampoos, body washes, baby oils and balms made with ingredients such as olive oil, organic calendula, chickweed, plantain, St. John's wort, and shea butter
  • Babecology (www.babecology.com, 866-PUR-BABY): skin care products for babies that are free of synthetic ingredients
  • Aubrey Organics (www.aubrey-organics.com): The Natural Baby and Kids line contains no synthetic fragrances or preservatives
  • California Baby (www.californiababy.com): Try the Baby Shampoo, which contains no skin irritants or synthetic fragrances
  • Logona (www.logona.com, 888-4LOGONA): features a line of organic baby products; we like the Calendula Baby Shampoo.
  • Tom’s of Maine (www.tomsofmaine.com, 800-FOR-TOMS): The Honeysuckle Baby Shampoo is a gentle, synthetic-free baby shampoo

    Take a look at some past Mothering.com Expert Q&A’s for suggestions for other organic and all-natural baby clothes, toys and furniture.

    Do you have specific recommendations for those suffering from fibrocystic breast condition and “estrogen dominance”? I understand that “parabens” are to be eliminated-methyl, etc. I was surprised to see “paraben” in a shampoo from Whole Foods.

    Regarding the first part of your question, The Green Guide is a publication intended to make you a more conscious consumer and inform you of the environmental and health concerns in the world around you. We don’t offer medical advice, so please do consult your doctor about recommendations for treatment regarding fibrocystic breast condition.

    However, your reference to parabens raises an important issue about environmental influences on personal health, some of which you can avoid.It’s great that you’re reading labels. With the proliferation of industrial chemicals being used in personal care products, you should never assume that products are safe before carefully reading the ingredients listed on the label. And you are correct in understanding that parabens should be avoided. Methyl-, propyl-, ethyl- and butyl-parabens have been shown to mimic estrogen in rodents and to stimulate the growth of human breast-cancer cells in laboratory tests, and according to a study published in the Jan/Feb 2004 Journal of Applied Toxicology, they have been found in tissue samples from human breast tumors. Besides popping up in shampoos and deodorants, parabens have been found in makeup, sunscreen, lotions, and a host of other personal care products for both adults and children, even when those products carry a “non-toxic” label.

    Despite having been found in breast tumors, parabens have not been found to influence the development of fibrocystic breast condition, but other environmental exposures have.

    It’s believed that fibrocystic breast condition is related to hormonal imbalances between estrogen and progesterone—usually too much estrogen and too little progesterone, and one way to avoid extra estrogen hormones is by eating organic meat and dairy products. An estimated 80% of U.S. cattle are treated with hormone implants, which spur growth and increase feeding efficiency. Added hormones also add to the salability of meat, making cattle bloated and more fatty and therefore heavier, allowing farmers to charge more for the meat.The hormones build up in fatty tissue, which then ends up on your plate and in your body.

    The National Institutes of Health listed caffeine as another potential culprit in fibrocystic breast condition, and the easiest way to avoid it is to cut caffeinated coffee, colas, chocolate, tea, and pain relievers out of your diet.But that’s not to say you can’t enjoy these altogether. Take a look at our Coffee and Tea product reports at thegreenguide.com/reports for a complete list of organically grown, chemical-free decaffeinated drinks that will ease the transition.

    While the above two factors have not been shown in medical studies to cause fibrocystic breast disease, doctors and patients have provided anecdotal evidence that eliminating them from a daily diet has resulted in a reduction of cysts and breast pain and tenderness.

    And again, although parabens have not been found to influence the development of this condition, it’s good as a general rule to avoid any kind of hormone-disrupting chemicals no matter what your current health condition is.In addition to parabens, here are a few to look out for:

    • Alkylphenol ethoxylates (APEs), which are found in shampoos and conditioners
    • Bisphenol-A (BPA), which is found in polycarbonate water bottles (identifiable by their #7 recycling code), resins that line food cans and dental sealants
    • Phthalates, which are widely used in cosmetics (and masked on ingredient lists by the umbrella term “fragrance”), soft vinyl toys, flooring and medical tubing

    Reducing your exposure to any synthetic chemical is a healthy lifestyle change, especially when they could potentially aggravate certain health problems.But as with any medical concern, it’s important to consult your doctor and ask as many questions as possible.

    Where can I find responsible shoes?

    The shoe industry, particularly the sports shoe industry, has been under the spotlight for more than a decade for their reliance on sweatshop labor in Asian factories where long workdays and exposures to harmful adhesives such as benzene-based glues are common.  Thankfully, the scrutiny is beginning to pay off: Though we’re still a long way from a mainstream “green” shoe, large companies are growing more socially responsible. In 1997, pressure from activists and media coverage brought about the organization of the non-profit Fair Labor Association which independently monitors labor conditions for Adidas, Nike, Puma, Reebok and others.  Puma says it is observing the manufacturing environment and workers' health and Adidas has produced a Guide to Environmental Practice for its suppliers.  Reebok has also claimed that it is reducing packaging waste, working on efficient transport and conducting an inventory to reduce climate-change emissions.  All of these companies are eliminating polyvinyl chloride (PVC) from their lines, reducing the production of carcinogenic dioxins as a byproduct of PVC’s manufacture. One standout product is Nike’s new Considered line uses PVC-free leather, cotton and hemp, is vegetable tanned, and contains no chemical adhesives ($65–$110).

    Hiking gear  has also advanced :  Jade’s Vigilante Pachira hiking boots ($74.95) have soles made from recycled materials, including post-consumer tires and uppers of 50 percent hemp, 50 percent cotton. Naturally pest-resistant hemp is a popular choice in eco-friendly shoes, but is not yet certified organic or grown in the U.S.

    In the summer, sandals that breathe are a must, but popular “jellie” varieties are made of PVC and contain plasticizing phthalates, known to disrupt hormones. For alternatives, Birkenstock’s Gizeh thong ($90) and Sparta sandal ($110) include comfy footbeds made of cork recycled from the bottling industry and blended with natural latex. Worn soles can also be sent back for a “tuneup.” Another option is Splaff’s 100 percent vegan sandals, handmade from recycled car and bike tires ($38.95). Chacoallocates 3 percent of after-tax profits to environmental non-profits and produces a slip-resistant Flip ($50), supportive Zong sandals ($75), and men’s leather sandals ($115–$140).

    Unfortunately, there aren’t many high fashion “green” shoes, though Stella McCartney does produce vegan footwear available from Nordstroms. Note, however, that while they may include no animal products, some vegan shoes contain PVC and other materials that are hardly green.

    Resources
    Sweatshops.org lists companies producing from better factories.
    Jade Planet 503-297-2093
    Birkenstock
    Splaff 414-527-9684 (866-88VEGAN)
    Chaco 970-527-4990
    Nike Considered 800-806-6453

    Now that mad cow disease has been found in America, I want to feed my family more fish and less beef, but I'm also worried about unhealthy levels of mercury in tuna and cancer-causing chemicals in farmed salmon! My daughter is in preschool, and I'm pregnant again. Plus, we'd like to avoid eating overfished species. Which fish can I in good health and conscience buy?

    It's wonderful that you care about fish populations as well as your family's health. The good news is that there are still lots of fish, rich in protein and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, that are low in toxins and not overfished. These include wild Alaskan salmon, which can be bought fresh from April through September and frozen or canned the rest of the year, and sardines (which are high in calcium). Here's a breakdown of the toxins most commonly found in fish, and how to avoid them.

    Mercury
    Because you're pregnant and have a young child, you have good reason to be cautious about dietary exposure to mercury, which is found at highest levels in some species, such as tuna and swordfish. Fetuses, infants and young children, whose brains and nervous systems are rapidly developing, are at greatest risk of harm from neurotoxins such as mercury. "Mercury ingested during pregnancy can damage an unborn baby's central nervous system, leaving the baby with slower than normal brain development," Philip J. Landrigan, M.D. and Herbert L. Needleman, M.D. write in Raising Healthy Children in a Toxic World (Rodale, 2001).

    Because mercury is stored in our body fat, just as it is in fish, women planning to have children should also avoid high-mercury fish well before they become pregnant. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 8 percent of American women have levels of mercury in their blood that could prove harmful to fetuses. Adults can suffer harm, as well: In April, 2003, Environmental Health Perspectives reported that 89 percent of fish-eating subjects had blood mercury levels above the safety threshold of 5 micrograms per liter; several showed symptoms of mercury poisoning such as fatigue, decreased memory and joint pain.

    The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) advise that, in general, young children, pregnant women, nursing mothers and women of childbearing age should eat no more than two or three meals, or 12 ounces, of fish and shellfish a week. High-mercury fish-shark, swordfish, king mackerel, tilefish and tuna- should be limited to no more than 4-6 ounces once a week for these individuals. But some environmental health organizations, including the Environmental Working Group (EWG), have been recommending that people in these high-risk groups eat moderate-mercury fish no more than once a month, and high-mercury fish not at all. In fact, earlier versions of a December, 2003 FDA/ EPA draft advisory on fish suggested that high-risk individuals completely avoid high-mercury fish; however, this proscription did not appear in the draft that was released. Also in December, after being pressed to do so for years by EWG and others, FDA finally added tuna to the list of fish that should be eaten no more than once a week.

    Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs)
    Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), banned in the U.S. since 1978, were found at far higher levels in farmed than wild salmon, according to a study released in January 2004, include, members of a class of chemicals known as persistent organic pollutants, or POPs. Like mercury, POPs accumulate in animal fats and rise in the food chain, so that large predator fish will generally contain higher amounts. Because farmed salmon are raised on feed that includes ground-up animals and fish, their bodies accumulate these pollutants. Other POPs found in fish include the organochlorine pesticide dieldrin and dioxins-- the result of chlorine paper bleaching and manufacturing and incineration of PVC plastic, and the most toxic man-made chemicals known.

    PCBs, which are neurotoxins, hormone disruptors and probable carcinogens, were found at levels seven times higher in farmed than in wild salmon. PCBs are also found at high levels in fish from polluted water bodies, varying from locale to locale; state health advisories list which fish should not be consumed by children, pregnant or nursing women, and women of childbearing age.

    How to Avoid Fishborne Toxins

    Avoiding Mercury
    As a general rule, The Green Guide and our medical advisory board, including Drs. Landrigan and Needleman, agree with EWG's guidelines.

    *Young children and pregnant or nursing women should not eat high-mercury fish, and should limit meals of moderate-mercury fish to once a month.
    (This is a general rule, however, which means you shouldn't worry unduly if you or your child occasionally get your fish mixed up and eat the "wrong" kind. A once-in-a-while meal won't cause harm-it's regular ingestion that allows mercury to build up in the body.)

    *Know your tuna: According to the FDA, tuna steak and canned albacore (white) tuna generally contain up to three times more mercury than canned light tuna. According to EWG guidelines, a pregnant woman or young child can eat 4-6 ounces of moderate-mercury, canned light tuna (one sandwich) per month.

    *Fish lowest in mercury include: Wild Alaskan salmon, sardines, squid, Arctic char, flounder, sanddabs, scallops and sole. For moderate and high mercury fish lists, and which fish are from healthy, recovering or overfished populations, see www.thegreenguide.com

    Avoiding POPs
    Check with the state department of health before eating fish from local fresh or ocean waters, as worrisome levels of PCBs as well as pesticides and other industrial chemicals may be present.

    In General
    *Limit fish consumption by category, not individual species. For example, both cod and mahimahi are moderate-mercury fish, and only one from this category should be eaten per month -not one meal of cod and one of mahimahi.

    *Don't eat the skin and fatty parts of fish, where toxins collect.

    *Eat cooked rather than raw fish, as cooking, particularly grilling, burns off fat.

    *For lists of specific fish can be eaten regularly, once in a while, and not at all ("yes," "sometimes" and "no") fish, visit thegreenguide.com. A unique, downloadable pocket fish guide, "Smart Shopper's Fish Picks," addresses both overfishing and pollutants in fish that threaten human health. It is regularly updated.

    For more information, also see www.fda.gov, www.ewg.org, www.epa.gov/waterscience/ fish and www.map1.epa.gov to learn which fish from which water bodies are currently safe or unsafe to eat.

    As a new mother, I am concerned about toxic chemicals in my home, particularly in household cleaning and body care products. I use an all-natural detergent and diapers but was wondering what other sources of toxins I should replace?

    You are wise to be concerned about the many unhealthy-and unnecessary- man-made chemicals in conventional household and personal care products, including some shampoos, soaps and lotions marketed for babies. "Babies and young children are particularly vulnerable to environmental toxins, which can disrupt the development of their rapidly growing nervous, hormonal and respiratory systems," says Philip Landrigan, M.D., a Green Guide editorial advisor and director of the Center for Children's Health and the Environment (CCHE) at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City. Happily for our children's health, we can choose safer and more environmentally sound alternatives in a growing green marketplace. But it's also important not to worry too much: While there are many ways in which to reduce your baby's exposure to toxins, you needn't feel you have to do them all at once. It's hectic enough to be a new parent, and every little change helps.

    Following are some tips and safer choices regarding some everyday household and baby items: laundry detergents, pesticides, cleaning and body care products, and "teething" toys. For more detailed, comprehensive information, including extensive product lists, in these and other categories, such as baby bottles, pressed woods and wood finishes, flooring, carpets, mattresses and other decorating products, please see Product Reports and search the Archives at www.thegreenguide.com.

    Also see the Resources section below.

    Remember, especially as your baby begins to crawl about and explore, that even least-toxic alternative products should be kept well out of the reach of children and behind locks, as any cleaning or laundry formulation can be toxic if swallowed or touched.

    LAUNDRY PRODUCTS
    You've already taken two big steps by choosing an all-natural laundry detergent and all-cotton diapers (organic, hopefully), both of which make daily contact with your baby's sensitive skin. To ensure that a laundry detergent is as natural as possible, choose products that list all ingredients and are plant- rather than petroleum-based. It is also a good idea to choose fragrance-free detergents, as fragrance residues on clothes can produce skin irritation and rashes as well as watery eyes and noses, according to Harvey Karp, M.D., author of The Happiest Baby on the Block (Crown, 2002). Allergies, Dr. Karp says, can develop through repeated early exposures to irritating substances.

    Also to be kept out of the laundry room: Chlorine bleach, also called sodium hypochlorite, which gives off caustic fumes and is highly poisonous if swallowed. Choose non-chlorine bleaches that use sodium percarbonate or sodium perborate, instead. Or, give diapers a pre-wash soak in water mixed with either borax, lemon juice, hydrogen peroxide or white vinegar.

    Some best, least-toxic laundry products to look for:
    Seventh Generation
    Ecover
    Sun & Earth
    Bi-O-Kleen

    FRAGRANCES
    Fragrances in conventional laundry detergents and other home cleaning products, room-freshener sprays and cosmetics (including your expensive perfumes, if your baby is sensitive to them) can cause responses that "range from runny nose to wheezing and coughing" and aggravate asthma and allergies, Dr. Karp warns.

    While even natural scents, particularly citrus-based ones, can cause irritation and provoke allergic reactions, synthetic fragrances pose a more insidious health threat because they contain chemicals known as phthalates, which have been found to produce cancer of the liver and birth defects, including reproductive system abnormalities, in lab animals. Phtalates are not required to be disclosed on labels and so can hide behind the catchall term "Fragrance" on ingredients lists.

    When buying any kind of bodycare or household product, your safest bet is to look for "Fragrance Free" or products that specify that they use only 100% plant essential oils, which do not use phthalates.

    HOUSEHOLD CLEANING PRODUCTS
    A major source of indoor air pollutants is conventional cleaning products, loaded with fragrances and petroleum-based volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, that vaporize into the air you and your infant breathe. VOCs can evaporate, or "offgass" from cleaning products, paints and finishes long after they have dried. The combined emissions of all these offgassing products in our households produce a potent indoor smog! As infants breathe proportionately more air, for their body size, than adults do, their exposure is all the greater.

    Safety alert: Note that chlorine bleach (sodium hypochlorite) should never be mixed with any product containing ammonia or quaternium compounds, as this produces toxic chlorine gas. Best to remove these toxic substances from your home altogether!

    Scouring Powder
    Bon Ami powder is a chlorine-free substitute for Comet or Ajax

    Some Safer Cleaning Products:
    The Green Guide editors' favorite nontoxic floor cleaner is one cup white distilled vinegar per gallon of hot water. For extra strength, use ½ cup borax (like vinegar, a natural disinfectant) and 2 gallons of water, plus 1/4 cup of any liquid soap.

    All-Purpose Cleaners:
    AFM Super Clean concentrated all-purpose cleaner/degreaser vAubrey Organics Earth Aware All-Purpose Household Cleanser
    Dr. Bronners' Sal Suds
    Ecover Natural All-Purpose Cleaner
    Vermont Soapworks Liquid Sunshine Nontoxic Cleaner

    Dish soaps:
    Ecover cleansers and dish soaps
    Naturally Yours Gentle Soap
    Seventh Generation Natural Dish Liquid

    Heavy-Duty Cleaners
    Some of the most toxic and corrosive ingredients are found in conventional drain, oven and toilet-bowl cleaners. Here are some safer alternatives:

    Earth Friendly Earth Enzymes Drain Opener
    Naturally Yours Enz-Away enzyme drain opener
    AFM SafeChoice Safety Clearn for toilets
    Ecover Toilet Cleaner
    Ecover Cream Cleaner for ovens
    1st EnviroSafety's Multi-purpose Cleaner for ovens

    A make-your-own, VOC-free oven cleaner: Make a paste of ½ cup washing soda (sold in supermarket laundry aisles), ½ cup baking soda and water. Apply to oven overnight, and rinse off next day wearing rubber gloves.

    For Windows, use ½ cup white vinegar in 2 cups water, or buy Earth Friendly Products handy vinegar-based Window Kleener in a spray bottle.

    All-Natural Disinfectants:
    Earth Power Herbal Disinfectant
    Seventh Generation Sanitizers

    PESTICIDES
    It's very important to avoid the use of synthetic pesticides, including herbicides and fungicides, in your home and garden, especially if you have a small baby or toddler or are pregnant.

    Many insecticides are organophosphate neurotoxins that pose an especially grave threat to developing brains and nervous systems. Because of the danger to young children, Dursban/chlorpyrifos, a common household pesticide, has been banned for residential uses since 2001. Diazinon, another organophosphate, has been banned for use on produce that's most frequently eaten by children. Other pesticides, such as atrazine, have been shown to have hormone-disrupting properties in wildlife.

    Use least toxic pest controls. Seal cracks and mend leaks that attract pests. In summer, removing sources of standing water such as old tires, rain gutters, wading pools and potted plant saucers eliminates mosquito breeding spots. Boric acid, which kills cockroaches, can be scattered at the backs of shelves and counters, so long as it's kept out of the reach of children and pets.

    For more ways to control pests without synthetic chemicals, see "Common Sense Home Pest Control" at www. thegreenguide.com/doc.mhtml?i=16&sec=2 And the Washington Toxics Coalition's www.watoxics.org

    To safely dispose of pesticides, call your local solid-waste agency or 800cleanup (cleanup.org) or the National Pesticide Information Center, 800-858-7378

    PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS
    Many conventional personal care products marketed for babies contain questionable ingredients. For instance, Johnson's Baby Shampoo uses quaternium -15, a preservative that contains formaldehyde, a probable human carcinogen, according to the EPA. And "fragrance," as noted above, is a catch-all term disguising the presence of problematic phthalates. To complicate matters, the labels "organic, natural and hypoallergenic" are currently unregulated with regard to personal care products and thus meaningless, with exception of certified organic essential plant oils.

    Because synthetic fragrances offgass from adult products into the air your baby breathes, and we hold our babies against our skins, where products can rub off on them, we should take the precaution of using less toxic cosmetics for their sake as well as our own.

    Also sidestep antibacterials, which work no better at germ-killing than regular soap, according to the National Institutes of Health, and contribute to the rise of antibiotic-resistant super germs that threaten our health.

    Therefore, it pays to read labels. For an article explaining what ingredients to avoid and why, plus a downloadable wallet-size list of the "Dirty Dozen" ugliest ingredients in personal care products, go to www.thegreenguide.com/doc.mhtml?i=100+S=uglies

    Below are some short lists of products for babies and adults that are free of the most problematic synthetic chemicals:

    Soaps & Shampoos
    In general, look for unscented pure vegetable oil soaps, such as ones based on olive or coconut oil Aubrey Organics facial bar soaps contain no synthetic chemicals.
    Kiss My Face Bare Naked Bar Soap is free of fragrances and dyes
    Vermont Soapworks has "supermild" soaps scented with essential oils
    Aubrey Organics Soothing Blue Chamomile Shampoo
    Aveda Scalp Benefits Balancing Shampoo contains botanical ingredients
    Dr. Hausschka Herbal Hair Conditioner
    John Masters Shampoo and Conditioner
    J.R. Liggett's Old-Fashioned Bar Shampoo-plus, no bottle!
    Terressentials Pure Earth Hair Wash is detergent- and petroleum-free with organic botanical oils
    Tom's of Maine Natural Baby Shampoo & Body Wash is based on gentle plant oils with no synthetic chemicals

    Moisturizers and Diaper Creams

    Moisturizers:
    Aubrey Organics Honeysuckle Rose Complexion and Body Moisturizer
    Burt's Bees Vitamin E Body & Bath Oil
    Jason Natural Cosmetics Vitamin K Creme Plus for Skin
    Kiss My Face Ultra Hydrating Moisturizer

    Diaper Creams:
    Plain zinc oxide lotion, inexpensive and available at pharmacies, is a least-toxic choice.
    Burts Bees Diaper Ointment combines zinc oxide with pleasant plant oils

    A note on baby powder: Talc, a mineral found in many face and body powders, has a structure similar to asbestos, which has been linked to lung and ovarian cancers. For adults, a healthier alternative is cornstarch. But because any fine particles, including cornstarch, can penetrate deep into lungs and cause breathing problems, it's best not to powder baby.

    Sunscreens and Sunblocks

    These products should not be used on babies under the age of six months, who should be kept out of the sun between the most burning hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. When they do go out, keep them in the shade and protect them with cute floppy hats and tightly-woven clothing.

    For older babies, zinc oxide formulations are the least toxic currently known.

    Zinc Oxide Ointment, a popular diaper lotion, will also block sun.

    Mustela Bebe/Enfant uses zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which physically block sun without added chemicals.

    Epicuren Discovery Zinc Oxide Sunscreen and U.V. Natural use only zinc oxide.

    PAINTS
    Lead, a brain-damaging heavy metal banned from use in household paint in 1978, remains an all-too-live health threat to young children's development, persisting in an estimated 38 million U.S. homes. If your home was built in 1978, and old paint is flaking or crumbling, have the chips tested for lead by an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certified lab. Otherwise, your infant or toddler may suffer lead poisoning from inhaling or ingesting lead dust. Even absent a full-blown case of lead poisoning, according to pediatric psychiatrist Herbert L. Needleman, M.D. of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, even low exposures to lead can contribute to learning disabilities and antisocial behavior.

    Certainly, before undertaking any renovations in your home that may disturb old paint, you should have it tested for lead. Because of its high neurotoxicity and the danger of spreading the dust over a wide area, never remove lead paint yourself; it must be removed and cleaned up by a certified lead specialist when your family is not in residence.

    When it comes to new paint, look on labels for no-VOC or low-VOC formulations. By choosing these cleaner, greener paints you will avoid such toxic VOCs as formaldehyde, benzene, toluene and xylene, all known carcinogens or neurotoxins. Below are some better brands:

    AFM Safecoat Zero VOC
    BioShield Clay Paint (no-VOC, all natural)
    EcoSpec by Benjamin Moore (low-VOC)
    Kelly Moore Enviro-Coat Enamel (no-VOC)

    For more information see Resources, below.

    TEETHING TOYS
    Soon your baby will be teething, if not already, and in search of soft things to chomp on. While cheerful, colorful plastic teething toys are a popular gift item for this age group, they can contain phthalates, those culprits found in synthetic-fragranced cleaning and personal care products. Phthalates are also used as plasticizers to soften PVC plastic, also known as vinyl. In some lab tests that replicate the action of a chewing infant, phthalates have been found to migrate from soft vinyl. As a precaution, the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission has recommended that American toy manufacturers not use soft vinyl in toys for children under the age of three. Britain has banned all PVC toys, and a European Union report recommends that all EU countries do the same.

    Toy companies that have gone PVC-free include Brio, Chicco, Early Start, Lego, Little Tykes, Primetime Playthings, Sassy and Tiny Love. Lamaze Infant Development is PVC-free for children under free.

    RESOURCES
    For more information on the above products and ingredients, as well as on bedding, including crib mattresses, furniture, paints, finishes, flooring, carpets and other items for baby, please visit www.thegreenguide.com

    Updates on dangerous chemicals in cleaning and other household products and pesticides can be found at www.watoxics.org

    The ultimate pesticides clearinghouse is Pesticide Action Network. See www.panna.org

    For chemicals in personal care products, see www.nottoopretty.org

    For info on antibiotic resistance, see www.apua.org

    To find EPA-certified labs and experts, contact the National Lead Information Center, 800-424-LEAD; or see epa.gov/opptintr/lead

    For details on chemicals in paints and extensive lists of brands and where to find them, see "Paint Product Report" at www.thegreenguide.com

    To distinguish reliable from unregulated labels and claims, go to www.ecolabels.org

    For studies on children's environmental health, go to Mount Sinai School of Medicine's Center for Children's Health and the Environment at www.childenvironment.org

    I am concerned about toxic chemicals leaching from plastic into breastmilk when it is stored and reheated. How to avoid this?

    There are two potentially hormone-disrupting chemicals that may leach from plastic bottles or bags used to store or heat breast milk. The first is bisphenol-A, which can enter milk from heated or scratched polycarbonate (#7) bottles. The second is a class of chemicals known as phthalates, plasticizers that can readily migrate from polyvinyl chloride (PVC #3). As a general rule, milk should not be reheated in any plastic, as heat promotes more leaching and even plastics with no known toxic properties can melt at high temperatures.

    Storing milk in soft plastic bags is risky because they are easily punctured and difficult to seal. Because you need an air-tight seal when storing breast milk, your best choices are glass breastmilk storage or nursing bottles or small mason jam jars. Gerber’s polypropylene nursers are made from a plastic that has not been shown to release toxic chemicals. Most opaque and colored bottles are not polycarbonate. Periodically check, though, to make sure that bottles–whether plastic or glass–do not have scratches and other signs of wear. This encourages leaching of chemicals from plastic, and in the case of glass, make breakage more likely.

    For brief storage and transport, soft plastic bags are convenient and safe–just check that they aren’t made out of polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

    Also, don’t store your milk for too long. According to a recent study published in The Archives of Childhood Disease, breast milk that has been refrigerated for two days or more or frozen has a lower antioxidant activity than fresh milk. Write the date and time on labels and affix to the containers.

    Finally, be aware that a microwave can heat unevenly, creating pockets of scalding milk in baby’s drink.

    Products
    Lansinoh Glass Breastmilk Storage Bottles at www.lansinoh.com.
    Gerber Seal ‘N Go breast milk storage bags at www.gerber.com.

    For more information, please see The Green Guide’s Baby Bottle report at www.thegreenguide.com/reports.

    I am looking for environmentally friendly products to register for my upcoming baby shower. Everything from clothes to nursery decor to furniture. Where (and how) do I begin the search?

    I love to get questions like this. Like you, more and more new parents are helping to protect the Earth–and their babies’ health–by purchasing green products. Every step, no matter how small, has a positive impact when you’re making environmentally friendly choices, and as your friends and family will discover, shopping for the earth can be rewarding and fun, even–or, rather, especially–in the tiniest of sizes.

    Here are some ideas to get you started, in the categories you mentioned.

    CLOTHING AND BEDDING

    What to Look For: Certified Organic, Untreated Cotton or Wool
    Breathable, absorbent cotton feels best next to a baby’s sensitive skin. But conventional cotton farming is responsible for the use of nearly $2.6 billion worth of pesticides annually–more than any other crop, according to Pesticide Action Network North America. These include organophosphate and carbamate pesticides, potent nervous-system toxins that can sicken agricultural workers and contaminate the soil and groundwater in farming communities. The synthetic nitrogen fertilizers used on cotton can cause an illness known as “blue baby” syndrome in infants whose formula is made with polluted water. The most environmentally-friendly choice one can make is therefore Certified Organic Cotton, grown without these toxic additives.

    For breathable insulation that naturally resists both water and fire, wool has long been the tradtional choice for baby hats, sweaters, soakers, booties, blankets and under-sheet absorptive padding. Certified organic wool, sheared from sheep raised on organic feed, is increasingly available in clothing and bedding for infants.

    During processing, chlorine bleaching and dyeing of these natural fabrics with toxic heavy metals and petrochemical solvents, pollution of water is also a problem. And, fabric treatments such as permanent press or water- and stain-repellant may "offgass" such toxic chemicals as formaldehyde, a respiratory irritant and probable carcinogen; and perfluorochemicals, which have been associated with testicular and bladder cancers in some human studies–and have shown up in the blood of children tested at more than twice adult levels, according to a 2001 industry study.

    Look for undyed, non-chlorine-bleached cotton and Pure Grow wool, which is processed in more environmentally sound ways. Sheep and their wool naturally come in a variety of lovely shades, from white to beige to grey to dark brown. Look also for "color-grown" cotton, which naturally appears in soft russet, brown or sage. Other environmentally gentler alternatives include fabrics that have been colored with natural dyes in a process sometimes labeled as "phosphate-free" or "fiber-reactive," which results in less dye going down the drain.

    Here are some top product choices for organic, untreated infantwear, diapers and diaper covers, and or/ baby sheets, towels and blankets.

    Ecobaby, ecobaby.com, 888-320-2129 for organic baby clothes, bedding and towels and furniture
    Maggie’s Functional Organics, organicclothes.com, 800-609-8593
    Patagonia, patagonia.com, 800-638-6464
    Garden Kids, which has an irresistible organic cotton receiving “blankie” and cap, gardenkids.com, 541-465-4544
    Babyworks, babyworks.com, 800-422-2910
    Eco-wise, ecowise.com, 512-326-4474
    Natural Baby Company, http://store.yahoo.com/naturalbaby/info.html
    The Natural Baby Catalog, kidsstuff.com, 888-550-2461
    Lifekind makes organic cotton sheets whitened with hydrogen peroxide, and organic cotton and wool mattress pads, lifekind.com,800-284-4983

    Diaper Service? To wash those organic cotton diapers, consider registering for a diaper service. To find one in your area, try the yellow pages or diapernet.com.

    Green Disposable Diapers

    Most eco-conscious parents agree it’s a blessing to have both green cloth and disposables on hand. More environmentally friendly disposables are available from

    Seventhgeneration.com
    Tushies.com
    Natureboyandgirl.com

    Polyester Fleece from Recycled Soda Bottles

    Patagonia makes colorful, warm hooded baby jackets and overalls from old PET bottles, patagonia.com

    NURSERY DECOR

    Paints
    What to Look For: Low- or No-VOC paints
    You wouldn’t want your baby–or yourself, especially when pregnant–breathing in toxic petrochemical VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, which evaporate from conventional paints. Instead, look on labels for no- or low-VOC paints, which, like conventionals, can be mixed into any nursery-appropriate shade you desire. Note: The Green Guide’s medical advisors warn that pregnant women should never do the painting, even with the safest, most fume-free paint, and should not linger in freshly painted rooms until they’ve been well-ventilated and paint has fully dried (two weeks to be safest). Here are some recommendations:

    AFM Safecoat Eggshell Zero VOC, afmsafecoat.com, 800-239-0321
    Ecospec by Benjamin Moore, benjaminmoore.com, 800-344-0400
    Old Fashioned Milk Paint (all natural), milkpaint.com, 978-448-6336
    BioShield (natural ingredients), bioshieldpaint.com, 800-621-2591

    Carpeting
    What to Look For: Natural Fibre Area Rugs and Low- or No-Voc pads and underlays
    For the nursery or anywhere in the home, pediatricians Philip Landrigan, MD and Harvey Karp, MD recommend the use of washable area rugs rather than wall-to-wall carpeting. Smaller rugs can be taken up and thoroughly washed or vacuumed on both sides to remove allergenic dust mites and chemicals that accumulate from household products. Natural fibers are preferable to synthetics, which pose a disposal problem as they accumulate in landfills. VOCs are also often found in mothproofing, water-stain treatments, synthetic backings, underlays and pads, and adhesives or glues. Opt for unbacked dhurries or kilims, or carpets sewn to natural backings with low-VOC glues. Some good places to start:

    Natural Home,naturalhomeproducts.com, 707-824-0914
    EarthWeave Carpet Mills,earthweave.com,706-278-8200
    Eco Friendly Flooring, 866-250-3273, for hemp, seagrass and sisal carpets, some backed with natural rubber
    Casa Natura, 702-543-7003, for untreated wool carpetsw and pads
    Eco Choices, fax 702-543-7003, for untreated wool, natural adhesives, hemp or cotton backings.
    Yayla Tribal rugs, wool naturally dyed made by refugees working with non-profit organizations, 617-576-3249

    Soft Floorcovering Alternatives: Natural Linoleum or Cork
     Vinyl flooring and others surfaces should be avoided, as it has been found to offgass phthalates, which are plasticizing chemicals linked to respiratory problems in children as well as potential hormone disruption and liver cancers. Also, the production and incineration of vinyl release toxic dioxins into our water and air, and thence into the food chain.

    The answer? Baby’s rollovers and tumbles can better be padded by natural linoleum or cork.

    Natural linoleum is made of sawdust, linseed oils, natural pigments and a jute backing. According to Christina Erickson of Green By Design in Santa Monica, California, a linoleum floor for a child’s room “can be made colorful and fun with a contrasting border, a collage or any sort of pattern.”

    Cork comes from the outer barks of living oaks in Portugal, Spain, Algeria and Morocco; the flooring is often made from scraps remaining after bottle corks have been punched out.

    Where to get them:

    Cork and linoleum: Environmental Home Center, environmentalhomecenter.com, 800-281-9785
    Linoleum: Planetary Solutions, planetearth.com,303-442-6228
    Eco House, ecohaus.com, 503-222-3881

    FURNITURE

    As with flooring (see above), vinyl should be avoided. So should furniture made with conventional composite woods, plywood and particleboard, which can offgass VOCs such as formaldehyde. It pays to choose furniture that’s been finished with no- or low-VOC paints, stains or finishes, as well.

    Cribs
    Pacific Rim Woodworking makes a crib from solid maple, either left unfinished or finished with pure, raw tung and linseed oils. It can also convert to a toddler bed, and at $639.95, its price is competitive with its conventional counterparts. At abundantearth.com, 888-513-2784.

    Pacific Rim also makes solid wood, child-size tables and chairs. For other furniture and retailers, see pacificrimwoodworking.com.

    Other green cribs and nursery furniture can be found at Ecobaby.com, 888-320-2129 and gaiam.com

    The best green wood comes bearing the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) label, which means that its been harvested from sustainably managed forests. To put on your wish list: A curvy rocker, perfect for nursing or rocking a baby to sleep, made by woodworker Gary Weeks of FSC certified cherry, maple or mahogany. $1,600 and up at garyweeks.com,888-334-0307.

    Crib Mattresses
    For mattresses made with all-natural latex, cotton and wool (naturally fire retardant, so toxic flame retardant chemicals aren’t required), go to:

    Lifekind.com, 800-284-4983
    Gaiam.com (for Natura mattresses and cribs)
    IKEA makes conventional mattresses, but they’re free of the most problematic fire retardants, known as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (pbdes.).
    Crib futons, about half the price as all-natural mattresses and made with all-organic cotton or cotton wrapped with wool, are at
    Abundant Earth, abundantearth.com,888–513-2784 or
    Tonkatinkers, tonkatinkers.com, 309-837-3150

    For more extensive lists of products and companies, see Wood Furniture, Carpet, Clothing, Mattress and Bedding Product Reports at thegreenguide.com

    For more information:
    Pesticide Action Network, panna.org
    The Sustainable Cotton Projectg, sustainablecotton.org
    Organic Trade Association, ota.com/organic/woolfactsheet.html

    I have concerns with the vapor emitted from plastic toys. When I removed a new toy from the trunk of the car on a warm day the smell/fume was very intense. Should I be concerned about toxification from plastic toys?

    You are right to be concerned, as chemicals more readily escape from plastics when heated. A very common plastic used in toys, including teethers and other "mouth toys," is PVC (#3). Bad stuff, its production is a source of carcinogenic dioxin in the environment. Soft PVC toys are made flexible with phthalates, chemicals that have caused reproductive system harm and liver cancer in animal tests. Tests in the European Community have shown that phthalates can leach from soft PVC, posing a threat particularly to small children prone to sucking or chewing on toys.

    In 1997, Greenpeace found hazardous levels of lead and cadmium in some PVC toys and children’s vinyl raincoats.

    Responding to these problems, some conscientious manufacturers, such as Lego, Gerber, Playskool and Brio, are no longer making toys from PVC. So next time you’re shopping, avoid vinyl or PVC toys, as well as clothing, backpacks, bags, lunch pails and school items made of this plastic, and instead seek out toys made from solid (preferably sustainably sourced) wood, organic cotton, or safe plastics.

    Holgate Toys and Tumbleweed Woodworks both provide sustainably sourced wooden toys (holgatetoy.com, 800-499-1929; tumbleweedwoodworks.com, 800-497-3116). For organic cotton stuffed toys, see Mama’s Earth (mamasearth.com, 800-620-7399).

    Since Lego promotes their kits these days, to get buckets of Lego bricks it’s best to contact the company and ask for Item 4105 (miscellaneous bucket) or Item 4028 (world of bricks) (lego.com, 800-835-4386).

    And please note: Health concerns about toys are not limited to plastic—last summer, cereals containing Spider-Man toys were pulled from shelves in many states because they included a battery containing the brain-damaging heavy metal mercury.

    For more choices, see the December 2004 Guest Editor " Environment and Families" column at Mothering.com, and "Non-Toxic Toys" in issue 105 of The Green Guide at www.thegreenguide.com

    What kinds of chemicals are used to make baby clothes flame retardant? Are all sleep clothes treated with these chemicals and how safe are they?

    Most sleepwear made from synthetic fiber is polyester and according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), "less than 1% of either polyester or cotton sleepwear garments are treated with flame retardant chemicals." The key word here is "treated," which, in this case, does not mean exactly what one might suppose. Treated or not, most children’s sleep clothes made of synthetic fabrics will contain flame retardant chemicals in one way or another. In some cases, the material is treated after it is woven or after the garment is finished; in other cases, the flame retardant is actually bonded into the composition of the fabric. Therefore, the most chemical-free (as well as comfortable) option is untreated, snug-fitting cotton stretchies. But it’s crucial to note that they must be snug-fitting in order to comply with government safety rules.

    Chemicals used on pyjamas or pyjama fabrics include halogenated hydrocarbons (chlorine and bromine), inorganic flame retardants (antimony oxides) and phosphate based compounds, all of which are the basic building blocks of most conventional fire retardants. Like all fabric finishes, fire retardants can offgass into the air children breathe and irritate their skin. For purposes of the CPSC, synthetic materials are either considered to be "inherently" flame resistant or treated with flame retardants. Materials not requiring treatment include most polyesters, modacrylic (Verel, SEF, Kanecaron); matrix (Cordelan); and vinyon (Leavil). However, "inherently" flame resistant polyester textiles are manufactured with built-in fire retardants This is because the fire retardants can be chemically inserted into the polyester compound, becoming a part of its molecular composition. The enhanced polymers are quite stable, so polyester sleepwear is unlikely to pose a health risk to your child, beyond the reduced breathability of the fabric, which can contribute to overheating and rashes. And one can also consider the negative impact on the environment during its manufacture from petrochemicals.

    Materials requiring chemical treatment include nylon, acetate, and triacetate. The CPSC first adopted standards for children’s sleepwear in 1971. The standards stipulated that all sleepwear exposed to a small open flame must self-extinguish. Polyester garments and cotton garments treated with chemical fire retardants were approved, but untreated cotton garments were not. Subsequent data indicated a significant decrease in sleepwear- and-fire related deaths and injuries among children.

    During the 1980s and 90s, pressure from consumers groups for organic fibers lead to the CPSC’s relaxing the standards of the Flammable Fabrics Act to include cotton garments. However, an important distinction was made with regard to fit. According to the CPSC, loose-fitting sleepwear made of cotton or cotton blends are associated with 200 burn injuries every year. When the standards changed in 1997, "snug-fitting" untreated cotton sleepwear became a legal alternative for children over 9 months old. The same amendment eliminated all restrictions for infant (0-9 months) sleepwear, since infants are less mobile, and most burn injuries result from children playing with fire.

    Following the new CPSC standards all snug-fitting cotton sleepwear is labeled with a hangtag that says "For child’s safety, garment should fit snugly. This garment is not flame resistant. Loose-fitting garment is more likely to catch fire." The permanent label says, "Wear snug-fitting. Not flame resistant."

    Flame resistant garments are usually labeled "Flame Resistant." These are expected to have passed the rigorous testing parameters set by the CPSC, which require that the fabric, seams and trim self-extinguish after being exposed to an open flame. The fabric is tested as produced and again after fifty cycles in a washing machine. Failure at any point in the testing is supposed to stop the item from moving forward to production. Garments cannot be retested and must comply with all CPSC standards before going to stores. Most polyesters pass the testing, whereas untreated cotton does not. The current regulations determine the safety of cotton garments according to a set of measurements for each size group. These measurements are based on testing done to determine the optimum snugness necessary to prevent the garment from being inflammable when exposed to an open flame. The standards are based on studies that showed eliminating the airspace—and therefore the oxygen—between the garment and the child’s skin significantly diminished a cotton garment’s inflammability. (CPSC used dressed mannequins for their testing.)

    Cotton can be treated with fire retardants, though the strict CPSC standards requiring all cotton garments to be snug-fitting and the negative perception of treated natural fibers do not create a favorable market for such innovation.

    Your choices, then, from worst to best are 1) nylon or acetate treated with fire retardants, 2) "inherently" flame resistant polyester with fire retardants built into the polymer or 3) snug-fitting cotton garments. The healthiest safe choice with the lowest embodied energy and lowest ecological impact would be snug-fitting, organic cotton, long johns or union suit-style pajamas with the "Wear snug-fitting. Not flame resistant" label. These common sense choices conform to the CPSCs standards, give the environment a break and provide your child with safe and comfortable sleepwear. For where to get organic cotton children’s sleepwear and other clothing, go to www.thegreenguide.com and click on "Product Reports" and then "Clothing."

    We live in St. Louis and I recently took my 2.5 yo son in for a blood/lead level test and the tests came back at 15. He is now at my mother's, we have an appointment set with a specialist to test our entire house for lead, and we are in the midst of cleaning and purging. I am using melaleuca products and a hepa filter on the vacuum cleaner in the house. What can I do for my son to lower the lead? What should we expect as far as damages to him and can they be reversed? What else could we be doing to lower the chances of further lead poisoning? I am all for holistic healing and have had amazing results for all of us, my husband and my father are more skeptical.

    Expert Mindy Pennybacker, editor of the Green Guide, elected to pass this question on to her Senior Research Editor, Paul McRandle for prompt attention.

    We are sorry to hear about your son's blood lead levels and encourage you to seek professional lead testing and containment for your home. Done properly, lead abatement will greatly reduce the chance of any further poisoning. The Centers for Disease Control note that major sources of lead exposure for children are deteriorated lead-based paint and the resulting dust and soil contamination. According to The Environmental Protection Agency, home test kits are not accurate, so please see the National Lead Information Center (NLIC) for a list of specialists visit www.epa.gov/lead/nlic.htm or call 1-800-424-LEAD. Also, please see the EPA's Lead page at www.epa.gov/lead where you may download "Lead in Your Home: A Parent's Guide." I am attaching a shorter EPA brochure, "Testing Your Home Fore Lead in Dust, Paint and Soil" which you may download by clicking here.

    For a thorough test of your house, you will want a lead risk assessment conducted by a certified risk assessor. This will include testing deteriorated paint, household dust from your child's room, play areas, and elsewhere, and soil in play areas and elsewhere. You may also have your water tested during the assessment, since water from leaded pipes is another source of exposure. For certified risk assessors in your state, please contact the NLIC (phone/website above). The assessor will provide you with a report which should include options for controlling every lead hazard found, ranging from short term, interim fixes to permanent abatement of the lead problem. When it comes to fixing problem areas, the EPA recommends that you hire a different company to prevent a conflict of interest that might arise if the assessor also performs the abatement.

    Lastly, please speak to your pediatrician about a follow-up exam for your son and whether any treatment might be appropriate.

    Sincerely,
    Paul McRandle
    Senior Research Editor
    The Green Guide

    I am planning on breastfeeding but wanted to know which baby bottles are best for when I will need to pump. Any insight would be appreciated.

    Recent, studies have raised concerns about certain types of baby bottles. Fortunately there are plenty of safe options readily available to new mothers. The following tips will make it easy to know which products to look for and which to avoid.

    Products to avoid
    Polycarbonate bottles: Bisphenol-A is a component of #7 polycarbonate plastic, the clear, rigid variety of plastic from which many baby bottles are made. This substance has been shown to be "estrogenic": it is an endocrine-disruptor in lab animals, altering reproductive organs and functions. Bisphenol-A can leach from polycarbonate, especially when exposed to high temperatures and repeated washings.

    Rubber Nipples: Many bottle nipples are made of rubber, which may contain low levels of contaminants known as nitrosamines. These substances, found also in some foods and in tobacco, cause cancer in lab animals and contribute to tobacco-related cancers in people. Nitrosamines can be ingested through bottle nipples; however it is unknown whether this kind of exposure increases the risk of cancer. Because of cancer concerns, The Food and Drug Administration regulates the amount of nitrosamines allowable in rubber nipples, but low levels are still permissible.

    Products to look for
    Glass bottles: Because the risks to humans of bisphenol-A are unknown, it makes sense to limit your baby's exposure to it. Glass baby bottles are a time-tested alternative to polycarbonate plastic. Glass is a renewable resource, easily recyclable, and does not leach toxic chemicals. Glass bottles are, of course, subject to breakage, and there are risks of serious cuts to your child. Additionally, glass can chip or crack, and can break when sterilized, allowing glass splinters to end up in baby's beverage. The American Academy of Pediatrics urges parents not to let babies go to sleep with a bottle, and toddlers should not be allowed to walk around with a bottle. These precautions help prevent tooth decay and mouth injuries; they also help prevent breakage and injuries from glass bottles. As with plastic, careful and regular inspections of the bottle allow parents to detect any flaws in the glass. Recycle any scratched, cracked, or chipped glass bottle.

    Safe plastics: Although polycarbonate bottles containing bisphenol-A are the most common kind of baby bottle on the market, there are other plastic baby bottles available that do not contain bisphenol-A. These opaque bottles are made of polypropylene and polyethylene, which are not known to leach carcinogens or endocrine disruptors. Recycling symbols can provide some information about the plastic: polyethylene has #1, #2, or #4 on the underside, and polypropylene has #5. The surest way to know whether a bottle is made of polycarbonate is to call the manufacturer. Keep in mind, though, that all plastic bottles are petroleum products, requiring the use of non-renewable resources.

    Silicone nipples: Replace standard rubber nipples (amber-colored) with clear, silicone nipples. Not only are silicone nipples free of cancer-causing nitrosamines, but they last longer. Inspect nipples regularly and discard any with cracks or tears, which can harbor bacteria and also pose a choking hazard.

    Shopping Suggestions
    Baby Bottles (#5 Plastic)
    Rubbermaid Chuggables Bottles
    Rubbermaid Sippin' Sport Bottles
    Evenflo Colored Baby Bottles
    Evenflo Baby Bottles (opaque, pastel)
    Gerber Baby Bottles (colors)
    Medela Baby Bottles

    Baby Bottles (Glass)
    Lansinoh Glass Baby Bottles
    Lamby Glass Baby Bottles
    Evenflo Glass Baby Bottles

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