Baby Eco Trends

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All baby cribs sold in the USA must meet the minimum CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) safety requirements, confirmed by independent third party testing.  All baby cribs sold in the USA must also meet the Federal Hazardous Substances Act standards.  JPMA certification is optional & not required by law.
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So, is a JPMA (Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association) certified baby crib safer than one that is not JPMA certified?  The JPMA doesn’t go far beyond the requirements set forth by the CPSIA (Consumer Products Safety Improvement Act of 2008).  In 2007, the JPMA certified Simplicity crib recall affected over one million cribs.  The poorly designed Simplicity crib with its coveted JPMA seal of approval resulted in the deaths of three children.  This crib had been passing JPMA testing for nearly a decade before it was recalled; and the first recall occurred two years after the first child had died.
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JPMA also has been dragging its feet when it comes to researching the safety of crib bumper pads & baby bottles containing BPA (Bisphenol-A).  Some have even accused JPMA of lobbying against baby bottle regulations.  JPMA has vigorously campaigned against making changes to the CPSC that would increase safety standards.  In our opinion, the JPMA seal alone is not enough.  JPMA is simply a sure sign that someone has paid a lot of money for certification.
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We work primarily with small, family owned businesses that meet the CPSIA standards but who have not opted for the superfluous JPMA certification.  Our crib manufacturers voluntarily go beyond the requirements of the CPSIA & JPMA.  And even without the JPMA certification, our crib manufacturers have never had a recall.
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As a nursery furniture retailer, we prefer to work with manufacturers that do not seek to only meet minimum safety requirements.  We also screen for country of origin, materials used and manufacturing practices in addition to meeting CPSIA of 2008 standards.  We encourage all our customers to ask questions & conduct their own thorough research as opposed to relying on a seal of approval.
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Our nursery furniture makers are craftsmen creating family heirlooms on a small scale, the old fashioned way.  They are as interested in conserving, recycling & using sustainable, non toxic materials as we are.  Our USA made baby cribs use solid hardwoods, water based finishes & paints and non toxic adhesives.  Our solid wood baby cribs are formaldehyde free & use no particle board, no pressed wood, no MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) & no veneers.
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We believe in supporting USA manufacturers that source their materials as close to home as possible and practice fair trade & labor standards.  We work hard to bring together a collection of sustainable baby products that do not pollute the air in baby’s nursery.  We take our mission seriously & would be happy to address any questions about the products we offer.
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bumGenius is one of our best selling diapers and we often get questions about the differences between the bumGenius All-in-One, 3.0 One Size & the Organic 3.0 One Size.  So, here we have highlighted the differences between the three style of bumGenius cloth diapers along with some detailed images.  All 3 different cloth diapering systems come complete with inserts & covers.  Whether you buy the AIO, One Size or Organic One Size, you get a complete diaper.

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The bumGenius All-in-One diapers (pictured in Moonbeam) have sewn-in absorbent layers with velcro closure tabs (with a little stretch for the prefect fit) and are the closest thing to a disposable diaper.  Sewn-in soft loop side velcro squares hold the velcro closure tabs in place during laundering.  All sizes (except the Extra Small) feature a pocket that can be used for additional diaper inserts for heavy wetters or overnight use.  It is a very simple system, favored by grandparents & day care centers because of ease of use.

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Bulk discount for bumGenius Deluxe All-in-One Cloth Diapers:
$92.70 for 6
$179.40 for 12

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Note:  For maximum discount, choose total desired quantity in one color & make note of color preferences in ‘Comments’ section at checkout.

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The bumGenius 3.0 One Size (pictured in Zinnia) comes with two inserts that can be used individually or together for extra absorbency.  Included inserts fit snuggly into the diaper cover slot and are removed before laundering.  One Size diapers also feature stretchy velcro closure tabs for a perfect fit every time.  Sewn-in soft loop side velcro squares hold the velcro closure tabs in place during laundering.  Snaps in front adjust diaper to different sizes, fitting baby from 7-35lbs.

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Bulk discount for bumGenius One Size Cloth Diapers:
$53.10 for 3
$104.70 for 6
$203.40 for 12

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Note:  For maximum discount, choose total desired quantity in one color & make note of color preferences in ‘Comments’ section at checkout.

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The bumGenius Organic 3.0 One Size (pictured in Ribbit) is the ultimate in comfort & luxury in a baby cloth diaper.  It features stretchy tabs with snap closures and 100% certified organic unbleached cotton super soft inserts.  The inserts are sewn in at both ends and do not need to be stuffed or separated before laundering.  It is just as easy as a disposable & snaps adjust diaper to fit baby from 7-35lbs.

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Bulk discount for bumGenius Organic One Size Cloth Diapers:
$69.96 for 3
$134.95 for 6
$264.95 for 12

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Note:  For maximum discount, choose total desired quantity in one color & make note of color preferences in ‘Comments’ section at checkout.

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The Timbur Heirloom Wood Rattles remind us that it’s never too early to appreciate art.  Available in two styles (Maple/Purpleheart & Maple/Padauk), they are the opposite of the mass produced plastic practically-disposable toys that are far too common on toy store shelves.  Designed by a husband & wife team, Ezra & Ania, these rattles are unlike anything we’ve seen.  You would be forgiven for mistaking them for works of art.  This rattle is made of beautiful hardwoods, filled with real shell beads and is a genuine one-of-a-kind heirloom toy.

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Each Timbur rattle is finished with a non toxic blend of natural oils & wax and is moisture and stain resistant.  With an organic shape, this rattle is easy for little hands to grip and offers a smooth, rounded chewing surface & a more defined chewing surface to offer relief to sore gums.  If you’re looking for a holiday gift that will make a real impact & last for years to come, this is it.

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Maple is the best known of the three hardwoods used in the Timbur Heirloom Wood Rattles.  Maple is a source of syrup, lumber, butcher’s blocks, smoking chips as well as various oranmental uses.  Even its seeds have been used as a source of food.  Maple is considered a tonewood, or a wood that carries sound waves well, and is used in numerous musical instruments. Maple is harder and has a brighter sound than Mahogany, the other major tonewood used in instrument manufacture.  Maple trees are a major source of pollen in early spring before many other plants have flowered and are important to the survival of honeybees.

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Exotically beautiful and durable, African Padauk (Pterocarpus soyauxii) is often called the ‘Wood of Kings’. It is also known as mukwa, narra, barwood, corail, African coralwood, muenge, mbe, mbil, mututi, ngula, vermillion, and yomo. About as heavy, but strongr than oak, African Padauk is highly valued and makes beautiful furniture, cabinets and musical instruments. Because of its great strength & exceptional decay resistance, padauk has been used to make seaworthy boats. – King Solomon chose padauk for the pillars of his temple. French Kings Louis XV and Louis XVI also favored a red-orange padauk they called narra. With it, royal woodworkers crafted the cups and chalices of the royal court. Padauk grows in tropical climates such as India, Indochina, the South Pacific, West Africa, and even southern Florida.

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Purpleheart (Peltogyne spp) is a harwood that is also know as amaranth, violetwood, coracy, pauroxo, pauferro, koroboreli, saka, nazareno, morado, and tananeo.  Purpleheart is prized for its beautiful grain with a fine, even texture.  It is a very heavy, dense wood with great stability and natural decay resitance.

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Purpleheart is a bright, striking purple when freshly cut and darkens into a deep, rich purple with age.  It has a medium to fine texture with a medium to high luster.  Purpleheart has high bending qualities combined with strength & shock resitance.  It grows abundantly in Central and South America and is a worldwide favorite with countless uses.  The tall and large trees can reach a diameter of five feet with clear, knot free log lengths.

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The Original Tummy Tub Baby Bath Tub has just arrived and we have already received several inquiries about this great new baby bath tub.  To answer all your questions, we have posted the Tummy Tub FAQ.  If you still have further questions, feel free to call 305-527-8734 or email info@babyecotrends.com.

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Why use the TummyTub?
During the nine months in the womb, your baby feels safe, comfortable and secure. After birth everything changes for your baby, suddenly there are bright lights, new sights, new sounds, thirst, hunger, gravity and a constantly changing world. The TummyTub was developed by physicians, midwives and nursery nurses to ease the transition from the secure environment of the womb to this strange new world. The TummyTub’s unique womb shape helps your baby relax and become calm in the familiar fetal position.

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How much water should I use?
The TummyTub has a 13cm/5″ water mark and water should come up to your baby’s chest. If your baby is very young, during the first few weeks it is recommended that you increase the level of water so that your baby’s shoulders are covered. Adjust the level of water depending on the weight of your baby. If your baby is bigger, reduce the amount of water in the TummyTub.  The water level markings are intended only as a guide, as not all infants are the same size.

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How do I hold my baby?
In the “sitting” position the rounded shape of the TummyTub helps to support your baby. You simply need to support baby’s head under the chin. The advantage is that you always have one free hand to wash and comfort baby. In the “floating” position you have one hand under your baby’s chin and the other at the back of the head; or you can place both your hands under baby’s armpits.

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Is it safe?
Yes! The TummyTub is absolutely safe. It has safety certifications from ASTM (USA), TUV (Germany) and BSI (England) tested and approved. The TummyTub is permitted to carry the seal GS (Proven Safety). It has been designed in such a way that the water creates the stability.  Never leave baby unattended in the TummyTub.  You must always be there to give support & reassurance.

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Is it bad if my baby wants to stand up in the TummyTub?
No, because as your baby grows, the buoyancy of the water will encourage your baby to learn to stand.  It is now believed that children who are bathed in the TummyTub are learning to walk sooner.  However, if after a few minutes you want your baby to sit instead of stand, take a hold of her legs, and put her bottom first in the tub.  Legs can extend upwards and many babies like this position as they grow.  Never leave your baby unattended in the TummyTub.  You must always be there to give support and reassurance.

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Is the TummyTub too narrow?
No, babies enjoy the feeling of security and confinement that the TummyTub affords.

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Does the TummyTub help with gas and colic?
Yes. First, massage baby’s tummy with some infant massage oil in a clockwise direction.  Then give baby a relaxing bath in the TummyTub. This will help relieve any pain.  In Germany, doctors prescribe a TummyTub specifically for gas and/or colic.

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Does the TummyTub help with sleeping problems?
Yes, a warm and relaxing bath is always soothing if sufficient water at the correct temperature is used. Ensure the water covers your baby’s shoulders.

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What are the most suitable surfaces for the TummyTub?
With the TummyTub, bathing is easy on most surfaces: on a table or counter top, the floor, in any room of the house, at the beach, on a boat, even when camping.  It is also perfect to take with you when traveling.  The TummyTub can also be placed on a TummyTub Two-Step Stool while you sit comfortably in a chair to bath baby. This will help to prevent shoulder & back pain.

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Why can I not use a household bucket?
A regular household bucket is not suitably designed for bathing babies safely.  Normal buckets don’t have an anti-skid bottom.  The bottom is not curved and therefore does not give baby any support.  Babies discover their new world by touching with their hands and tasting with their mouths. The pigments in plastic buckets will most likely contain toxic elements, as normal buckets aren’t meant for bathing babies.

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The transparent material of original TummyTub allows you to view baby from all sides.  Unlike a regular household tub, the TummyTub is just the right size & shape for safely bathing baby.  A normal bucket would never have the TUV and BSI approval for baby bathing.

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How do I clean the TummyTub?
Cleaning the TummyTub is very easy.  Use a mild biodegradable detergent, as you would any baby bath or tub.  Do not use abrasive cleaners.

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Is the TummyTub suitable for bathing newborn babies?
Yes, the original TummyTub is uniquely designed to make your newborn baby feel secure when bathing. Like in the womb, your baby can still move freely while feeling safe and protected.  You simply need to support baby’s head under the chin with one hand and have the advantage of washing & comforting the baby with your free hand.  In the floating position you have one hand under the baby’s chin and the other at the back of the head; or you can place both hands under your baby’s armpits. After approximately 12 to 16 weeks, your baby will have enough strength to support his own neck and you are free to use both hands.  The original TummyTub is highly recommended for premature babies.

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Can I bathe my baby in the TummyTub while the umbilical cord is still attached?
Yes. Midwives across Europe and the United States use the TummyTub shortly after baby is born to gently introduce baby to the new world.  The tub is perfectly safe for new babies and premature babies.  No soap is necessary, just allow the newborn to soak and relax.  Midwives testify that no infections or problems occur due to this type of bath with the umbilical cord attached.

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Til what age can the TummyTub be used?
The therapeutic benefits of the TummyTub (easing colic, gas, and giving the reassurance and confinement of the fetal position) are applicable up until about six months of age.  However, the practical aspects of the tub last well beyond this stage, and it is the only baby tub needed before transitioning to the household bath tub.  As with a conventional baby bath tub, many babies prefer using the large tub once they are up and walking. The TummyTub is safe for babies and toddlers up to age three or 35 pounds.

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What can I do with it when my child grows out of it?
TummyTub can be used for storage, plants, washing the car, storing wooden blocks & toys….

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How ecological is it?
The TummyTub is extremely ecological. It uses less water, saves energy (heating of water), is made out of environmentally friendly materials, and is fully recyclable.  The original TummyTub uses only 1.3 gallons of water on average, approximately 2.5 gallons less than conventional baby baths.  Therefore, the original TummyTub saves water and energy. It is easy to carry and kinder to your back (1.5 gallons weighs about 11 lbs).  The TummyTub is lightweight even when full, which is very important for new mothers, especially after a caesarean delivery.  After bath time, you can easily carry the TummyTub outside and water your garden or lawn.

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How long will the water remain comfortably warm?
Due to the small water surface, water will remain at a comfortable temperature for about 20 minutes.

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Where is the TummyTub used?
The TummyTub is used extensively in Holland where the idea came from, Germany where it is manufactured, the UK, France, Spain, Poland, Ireland, Canada, Mexico and many other countries around the world.  In fact, in Germany doctors prescribe the TummyTub for babies suffering from colic.   It is now being adopted in many maternity hospitals around Europe.

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How long has the TummyTub been around?
The TummyTub was first introduced in 1996.

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Why should I buy the optional Tummy Tub Stand?
The stand allows you sit while bathing your baby and will help in preventing shoulder & back pain.  The stand is multi purpose and can later be used as a stepping stool with two levels as your child gets older to get up to the bathroom sink and toilet.  It can also be used as a storage device for toys or little bathroom items.  Just recently, some Irish midwives have spotted another use for it - they say it is good as a foot stool for breastfeeding mothers to raise their knees while feeding their baby.

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How does the TummyTub compare to similar European baby tubs?
The Original TummyTub is the first of its kind and the only patented upright baby bath tub in the United States.  There are several imitation European style baby bath tubs now available.  Some of these imitation tubs are made in China and the quality cannot come close to that of the German engineered TummyTub.  The design of the TummyTub is unique in that it closely resembles the shape and confinement of the mother’s womb, and is tall enough to keep the baby warm at all times.  No other baby bath tub comes close to the Original TummyTub!

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After searching & searching for an affordable, eco friendly line of baby nursery furniture made in the USA of FSC (Forestry Stewardship Council) certified, responsibly harvested hardwoods (yea, a tall order, I know!), we are proud to announce:  We did it!  Around here, this is really big stuff.  There is a descent selection of USA made baby furniture and more sprouting up all the time.  However, they usually carry a hefty price tag.  Most are well worth the price, but these days an economical green option is a real breath of fresh air.
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Our latest line of baby nursery furniture offers all the green features that keep baby’s sleep environment healthy without sacrificing style.  With FSC & SmartWood Certified baby cribs (including the conversion kit), furnishing a green baby nursery is more economical than ever.  Choose from Aurora, Glendale, Pacifica, Sierra & Viscaya collections - all FSC & SmartWood Certified.  All the birch, aspen & ash wood is responsibly harvested & sourced within a 100 mile radius of the manufacturer’s workshops and cut to specification on their premises.  Now, that’s a small footprint!
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All nine baby cribs meet &/or exceed US and Canadian safety standards, as well as California Standards and the new CPSIA Act of 2008 (new lead and phthalate standards).  The adhesives, colors and finishes are non toxic water-based and are the safest available.
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All 9 cribs fit standard size baby crib mattresses, have fixed sides and the base adjusts to three heights.  The 4-in-1 convertible cribs convert to a toddler, day and full size bed, taking baby from nursery to college.  The static cribs convert to a toddler & day bed as your baby grows.  With both the convertible & the static cribs, the price includes the conversion kit making this an even more affordable crib line!
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To complete baby’s nursery optional matching baby changing units, changing trays (pad included), chests, dresses and mirrors are also available.  Every last piece is lovingly made by skilled craftsmen with a focus on detail.  These nursery sets are proudly made by a family owned business in the USA.  Green, local & affordable baby furniture - what’s not to love?

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If you have been waiting for the right time to buy the popular Argington Babylon High Chair, now is the time.  The usual $198 price tag has been slashed to $108 on five beautiful colors:  Cherry, Orange, Pink, Red Maple & White.  The Argington Babylon High Chair is made of 100% solid FSC (Forestry Stewardship Council) Certified wood right here in the USA.   You won’t find any particle board, MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard), flakeboard or any other such material.

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Along with the Argington High Chair, the Argington Infant Tray Kit has also been marked down, from $59.95 to $35.  The Argington Infant Tray is designed of the same FSC Certified solid wood as the high chair & is ideal for babies from 6 months to 18 months of age.

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* The Birch & Ebony Argington Babylon High Chair and Argington Infant Tray Kit are not on sale.

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Early this morning, a fire in Seattle’s Fisher Plaza knocked our payment processing service offline for several hours.  We have no way of knowing which of our customers experienced difficulties, so we will take this opportunity to apologize to everyone that may have been affected.  The problem was fixed before most people had their first cup of coffee & is fully functional now.

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The silver lining:  just as the West Coast was waking up to the news, our always-making-things-smooth web designer, Cicily of August Afternoon, contacted us to make arrangements for a back-up system.  No matter how deserving, Cicily is obviously not taking a long weekend and is hard at work, per usual.  I know that as a mother and a business owner, she has more than enough on her plate going into Fourth of July weekend.  But she still had the wherewithal early in the morning to contact us & get busy problem solving.  We couldn’t ask for better service.  Cicily, you are awesome!

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Thank you,
Nasrin

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When purchasing organic produce, organic clothing, organic bedding, have you ever wanted to know what requirements were met for that item to be labeld ‘organic’?  Often, ‘organic’ & ‘natural’ are tossed around as if they meant the same thing.  Natural simply means “existing in or formed by nature”, as opposed to artificial.  Organic, however is governed by strict requirements and only applies to certain production methods.

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In the US, the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) sets forth stringent standards that must be met before a product can be considered organic.  The National Organic Program (NOP) regulations ensure that organically labeled products meet consistent national standards.  A third party, approved by the USDA, certifies farms that meet these NOP regulations.
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Organic farming begins with soil that has had no prohibited substances applied to it for at least 3 years before the harvest of an organic crop.  Seeds used in organic farming must be natural, untreated, non GMO (Genetically Modified Organism) seeds.  No toxic fertilizers are needed because organic farming employs tillage and cultivation practices, crop rotations, and cover crops, supplemented with animal and crop waste materials, along with allowed synthetic materials.

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Time honored farming techniques keeps soil healthy and fertile and maintain biologically diverse ecosystems.  As a result, a healthy balance is maintained between pests & their natural predators, eliminating the need for pesticides.  Beneficial insects are introduced to further minimize pest populations.

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Organic farming results in improved water rention and thereby decrease the amount of water required to grow crops.  Toxic herbicides & pesticides are also avoided, as crop pests, weeds, and diseases will be controlled primarily through management practices including physical, mechanical, and biological controls.  The use of genetic engineering, ionizing radiation and sewage sludge is prohibited.
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Any product that contains 95% to 100% organic ingredients, with remaining ingredients allowed for use in organic products may carry the “Organic” label.  Products containing 70% to 95% organic ingredients may not bear an “Organic” seal, but can list their organic ingredients on the ingredients label.

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Organic means:
- No genetically modified organism (GMO)
- No toxic fertilizers, insecticides, pesticides, herbicides or fungicides
- No antibiotics, synthetic hormones, genetic engineering
- No ionizing radiation, sewage sludge
- No cloned animals or animal products
- No chlorine bleach
- No artificial ingredients or preservatives

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We can have a positive impact on our environment by demanding organic alternatives to the things that fill our lives.  Organic farming ensures a healthier world for us, our children and all other living creatures that share this planet with us.  Thank you for supporting organic farming!

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If you have ever taken the time to read the label of your tube of toothpaste, you may have seen the following:
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“WARNING: Keep out of reach of children under 6 years of age.  If you accidentally swallow more than used for brushing, seek professional help or contact a poison control center immediately.”
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It is a little surprising since toothpaste is commonly thought to be one of the safest things we use.  It is also alarming because children’s toothpastes are available in tasty flavors like bubble gum, strawberry and watermelon; and as a result, much of it is swallowed.  The warning appears because as of April 7th, 1997, the United States Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has required that all fluoride toothpastes sold in the U.S. carry a poison warning on the label.
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The Journal of Dental Research has determined that 5 mg of fluoride per kilogram (2.2 lbs) of bodyweight is a potentially fatal dose*.  This is “the minimum dose that could cause toxic signs and symptoms, including death, and that should trigger immediate therapeutic intervention and hospitalization… This does not mean that doses lower than 5.0 mg F/kg should be regarded as innocuous.”  For the average two year old weighing 26 pounds, that would be 60mg of fluoride (found in about two ounces of toothpaste.)  The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) points out that “If not monitored, children may easily swallow over four times the recommended daily amount of fluoride in toothpaste.”
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For adherants of the “precautionary principal”, we respect your commitment to fluoride free products.  We also understand that some may benefit from the use of fluoridated products.  Therefore, we offer oral hygiene products with and without fluoride so that you can make the best decision for you and your family.
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* Journal of Dental Research 1987; 66:1056-1060

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Since many of the skin care products at babyecotrends.com tout their Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) free and/or Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) free formulations, we have received more than a few requests for more information about the benefit of SLS/SLES free skin care. Let’s start by pointing out the obvious: there is a lot of conflicting information regarding the safety of SLS/SLES. Unfortunately, a few who stand to financially gain from misinformation have exaggerated the concerns and even fabricated falsehoods surrounding SLS/SLES. There is cause for concern, but not for alarm.

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SLS is a surfactant that is commonly used in toothpaste, shampoo, shaving foam and bubble bath for its thickening effect and lathering properties. SLES is a detergent and surfactant found in shampoo, toothpaste and soap. SLES has been linked to increased frequency of canker sores among people with frequent recurring sores. And although Sodium lauryl sulfate is a skin and eye irritant and can cause dermatitis with prolonged contact, but is not a known carcinogen. Given the irritating potential of SLS/SLES, we recommend avoiding them whenever possibly, especially for newborns and young children.

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Other than the effects SLS/SLES may have on humans, it is important to consider their environmental effect. The impurities present in the production of SLS (even when produced from plant sources such as palm/coconut) end up in our water and soil and may harm other living organisms. So, although continued use of skin care products with SLS/SLES may not be a prelude to cancer, using products free of both agents will avoid the chance of irritation as well as being earth friendly. With the variety of SLS/SLES free products available, consumers have more great choices than ever!

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