Breastfeeding and Cleaning: How Non-Toxic Products Can Protect Your Baby’s Health | Part 2 – Where To Find Them and How They Are Best Used
In this post, I want to share some suggestions on what to look for when selecting non-toxic cleaning products.
With so much information out there, it can be overwhelming and confusing. Plus, with all the greenwashing, do you ever wonder which brands you can trust anymore?
If you are unfamiliar with “greenwashing,” check out my blog post here to learn what it is and how to look out for it.
Also, if you haven’t already, circle back to Part 1 of this article to learn more about why it matters if you use non-toxic cleaning products while breastfeeding your newborn.
Tips for Finding Non-Toxic Cleaning Products
Finding non-toxic cleaning products can be challenging, as many claims to be “natural” or “non-toxic” but still contain harmful chemicals. Here are some tips on how to find truly non-toxic cleaning products:
Read labels carefully
Look for products that list their ingredients on the label and avoid products that contain ingredients like ammonia, bleach, phthalates, and triclosan. Be wary of products that use vague terms like “natural” or “green,” as these terms are not regulated and may not indicate that the product is truly non-toxic.
Look for third-party certifications
Look for products certified by reputable third-party organizations like the Environmental Working Group (EWG) or Green Seal. These certifications indicate that the product has been thoroughly tested and meets strict safety and environmental sustainability standards.
Choose plant-based ingredients
Look for products that use plant-based ingredients, like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils. These ingredients are effective at cleaning and non-toxic, making them a safer choice for newborns and young children.
Avoid synthetic fragrances
Synthetic fragrances can be a source of harmful chemicals, so look for products that use natural fragrances or are fragrance-free.
By following these tips, you can find non-toxic cleaning products that are safe for use around newborns and young children and create a safe and healthy environment for your family.
How to read labels and identify non-toxic products
Reading labels and identifying non-toxic cleaning products can be overwhelming, especially for new moms. Here are some tips to make the process easier:
Look for clear labeling
Look for products that clearly state that they are non-toxic or use natural ingredients. Labels that list the product’s ingredients and any third-party certifications can also be helpful.
Avoid products with harsh chemicals
Look for products that do not contain harsh chemicals like ammonia, bleach, phthalates, and triclosan. These chemicals can harm newborns and young children, so it’s best to avoid them altogether.
Use resources
Look for resources that can help you identify non-toxic cleaning products. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has a database of household cleaners and their safety ratings that can be helpful when choosing products.
Buy from trusted brands
Look for brands with a reputation for using natural ingredients and avoiding harmful chemicals. You can research brands online or ask for recommendations from other moms.
By following these tips, new moms can easily read labels and identify non-toxic cleaning products that are safe for use around newborns and young children.
Creating a safe and healthy environment for your baby is essential, and using non-toxic cleaning products is a simple and effective way.
Best Brands with Quality, Non-Toxic Cleaning Products Made in the US
Here are a few brands I use, know, like, and trust. They are some of the best natural cleaning products made in the USA that are affordable and provide quality results.
MAMA SUDS
Mama Suds Toilet Bowl Cleaner Bombs are so easy that even kids can use them.
Everneat
Everneat Soft Scrub is a miracle cleaner made with plant-derived materials, safe enough for plastic surfaces but strong enough to knock out soap scum and remove tough stains such as mildew.
Branch Basics
Branch Basics carry an all-purpose cleaner that is pure concentrate. It will last you for what feels like forever.
Plant Therapy
Plant Therapy Multi-Surface Cleaner with Germ Fighter Blend combines the power of plants and essential oils for an effective cleaner that cuts through grease and grime without harsh chemicals, now in an easy-to-use, single-pour glass bottle!
The Cleaner Soul
The Cleaner Soul is another excellent brand with eco-friendly cleaning products. In particular, their All Floor Cleaner smells fantastic with the orange essential oil they use. The fresh aroma alone clearly sets it apart from conventional cleaners.
Therapy Clean
Therapy Clean All Purpose Cleaner cuts through dirt & grime. It was developed using fragrance technology designed to elicit positive emotions and enhance well-being, so it’s perfect for any room in the home.
Switching to all-natural cleaning products does not need to be complicated or time-consuming.
These products are gentle on surfaces, the environment, and your health, making cleaning a more enjoyable experience. Not to mention, easy to come by with just a few clicks.
Implementing Non-Toxic Cleaning Practices
The hardest part of implementing non-toxic cleaning practices is finding the right products. Once you have them in hand, most of the work is done. However, I have listed a few tips and tricks below to help make this transition as easy and simple as possible.
Safely and Effectively Using Non-Toxic Cleaning Products
Here are some tips for safely and effectively using non-toxic cleaning products in your home:
- When cleaning, ensure that the room is well-ventilated. Open windows or turn on a fan to ensure that fresh air is circulating in the room.
- Read the labels of cleaning products carefully and follow the instructions for use. Some non-toxic cleaning products require specific dilution ratios or application methods, so reading the labels is important to ensure you’re using them correctly.
- Avoid mixing cleaning products, even if they are both non-toxic. Mixing products can create harmful chemical reactions and produce fumes that harm your health.
- Store cleaning products out of reach of children in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Before using a new cleaning product, spot-test it in an inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn’t cause any damage or discoloration.
Following these tips, you can safely and effectively use non-toxic cleaning products while breastfeeding a newborn. Creating a safe and healthy environment for your baby is essential, and using non-toxic cleaning products is an excellent way.
Tips for maintaining a clean and healthy home environment
Maintaining a clean and healthy home environment is essential when breastfeeding a newborn. However, you have your hands full if you are a new mama.
NOTE: If you HAVE help, here are some tips for keeping your home clean and healthy while ensuring your baby is protected from harmful chemicals.
- Regularly clean and sanitize high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and countertops, as they can harbor germs and bacteria. Regularly clean and sanitize these surfaces using non-toxic cleaning products.
- Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter regularly to remove allergens, dust, and other pollutants from the air, improving indoor air quality.
- Wash bedding, including sheets, blankets, and pillowcases, regularly in hot water to kill any bacteria or allergens that may be present. Breastfeeding also equates to breast milk stains beginning to smell after a while, so you can thank me later with this tip.
- Wash your hands frequently, especially before handling your baby or preparing food. This will help prevent the spread of germs and bacteria.
By getting someone to help you follow these tips, you can maintain a clean and healthy home environment while breastfeeding your newborn.
NOTE: If you are alone, you might feel in survival mode between breastfeeding, changing diapers, breastfeeding again, and tracking sleep times. If this is the case, the healthiest home you can create for your baby is one with a well-rested and nutritiously fed mama. So focus on that first and foremost.
If you have someone to help care for the home, these tips will create a safer and healthier environment for you and your baby.
In Summary
In summary, using non-toxic cleaning products in your home while breastfeeding a newborn is essential in protecting your baby’s health and well-being. Traditional cleaning products can contain harmful chemicals that can be transferred through breastmilk or inhaled, leading to various potential health problems.
Non-toxic cleaning products are made using natural ingredients and are free from synthetic fragrances, dyes, and other harmful chemicals. They offer several benefits over traditional cleaning products, including improved indoor air quality and reduced exposure to harmful chemicals.
Creating a safe and healthy environment for her baby is important for a new mom. Using non-toxic cleaning products can help ensure your home is free from harmful chemicals and pollutants, protecting your baby’s health and well-being.
Additionally, by following tips for maintaining a clean and healthy home environment, you can help reduce the risk of exposure to germs and allergens, keeping your baby healthy and happy.
We understand that being a new mom can be overwhelming, and we empathize with the desire to provide the safest and healthiest environment for your newborn. Using non-toxic cleaning products and following tips for maintaining a clean and healthy home can create a safe and nurturing environment for your baby to grow and thrive in.
Take action today and switch to non-toxic cleaning products for a healthier and happier home. And if you know someone expecting, share this article with them so they can take some proactive measures to safeguard their newborn’s health and home today.
