Non-Toxic Baby Products: How to Choose and What We Love

As a mom of two toddlers, my deep dive into the world of non-toxic products started the second my firstborn arrived. Before kids, I cared about non-toxic items like safe cleaning products, makeup, and skincare, but when I found myself responsible for this tiny, sensitive little being, it definitely hit differently. Suddenly, I wanted to know everything about the products we were using.

I have a type A, research focused brain. If I’m looking up something, you can bet I’m going to be thorough about it. What I discovered? Labels can be tricky. Some sound like they mean something important… but they really don’t. Plenty of products marketed as “safe” or “natural” can still sneak in some pretty awful ingredients. So I prioritized finding out more about what’s actually in baby products and learning how to choose better options.

In this guide, I’m breaking it all down for you: why non-toxic products matter, the ingredients to avoid, and how to spot the stuff worth buying. From diapers to nursery essentials, I’ve got you covered with tips and recommendations to help you feel confident about the products you’re using—and keep your family safe and happy.

Why we recommend non-toxic baby products 

IMO, non-toxic baby products honestly should be non-negotiable. It would be amazing if all our products came without questionable additives—but unfortunately, that’s not the reality. The good news? You don’t have to break the bank to choose better options and with some knowledge and go-to recs, you’ll have the reassurance that comes with knowing your baby isn’t exposed to harsh chemicals

What makes a product non-toxic?

When it comes to non-toxic baby products, here’s what to look for:

• Free of harmful toxic chemicals. No parabens, phthalates, sulfates, or synthetic fragrances.
• Natural or organic materials. Think organic cotton, bamboo, or other biodegradable, plant-based options that support a healthy environment.
• Hypoallergenic. Designed to minimize the risk of skin irritation or allergic reactions.
• No artificial dyes. Colors should be free from synthetic additives.
• Certified labels. Look for certifications like GREENGUARD Gold, USDA Organic, or EWG Verified for higher safety standards.
• Eco-friendly. Products made with sustainable practices and materials to reduce environmental impact.

Opting for non-toxic products not only does things like help protect your baby’s delicate skin but it also promotes better health overall and supports a safer environment.

How to choose non-toxic products 

This is the tricky part. I wish we could just stroll down the aisles at Target or scroll past an IG ad and trust that whatever product that’s being promoted is the best thing for our babies—but it’s not that simple. Many products slap on labels like “clean” or “pure” that mean absolutely nothing, and some sneak in one or two toxic ingredients that completely undermine their claims.

And let’s be real: something can’t be “a little toxic.” That’s like saying something is “a little poisonous.” It either is or it isn’t. So, you need a bit of an eagle eye to spot what’s worth your trust. But once you know what to avoid and what to look for, it becomes easier to navigate shelves (and marketing gimmicks) with some confidence.

I’ll break down key chemicals, materials, and label-reading tips to help you make informed, safe choices for your baby.

Chemicals and ingredients to avoid

When it comes to choosing safe products for your baby, knowing what to avoid is just as important as knowing what to look for. Many everyday items marketed for infants can still include harmful chemicals, so here’s a quick guide to help you steer clear of the most concerning ones:

• Parabens (e.g., methylparaben, propylparaben)
• Phthalates (in fragrances and plastics)
• Synthetic fragrances (often listed as “fragrance” or “perfume”)
• Formaldehyde releasers (e.g., quaternium-15, DMDM hydantoin)
• Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) (in bath and cleaning products)
• Triclosan (in antibacterial soaps and wipes)
• Bisphenols (BPA, BPS) (in plastic feeding products and toys)
• PFAS (used in waterproof diapers and clothing)
• Synthetic dyes (common in baby clothing and toys)
• Benzalkonium chloride (found in some wipes and cleaners)

Materials to avoid

Choosing the right materials for your baby’s products is crucial since some can be irritating to their sensitive skin or harmful to their health. These are the materials you need to avoid:

• Polyester (can trap heat and irritate sensitive skin)
• Polypropylene (common in disposable products, not eco-friendly)
• PVC (vinyl) (often contains harmful phthalates)
• Synthetic latex (can cause allergic reactions)
• Foam with flame retardants (used in mattresses and nursing pillows)
• Microplastics (found in some wipes and cleaning products)
• Non-biodegradable plastics (in toys and feeding items)
• Synthetic leather (PU or faux leather) (may contain toxic finishes)

How to read labels for baby products

Decoding labels can feel overwhelming, but it’s worth the effort to make sure your baby’s products are truly safe. Try following these steps so you feel confident about what you’re adding to your cart: 

1. Check the ingredient list first. Avoid products with long, unpronounceable ingredients or anything you don’t recognize.
2. Look for third-party certifications. Labels like GREENGUARD Gold, USDA Organic, and EWG Verified indicate higher safety standards.
3. Avoid vague terms. Words like “natural” or “pure” aren’t regulated and don’t guarantee safety.
4. Watch for “hidden” chemicals. Words like “preservatives” or “antimicrobial” often hide harsh ingredients. If it’s vague, skip it.
5. Review for allergens. Avoid products with synthetic fragrances, dyes, parabens, sulfates, or vague terms like “fragrance.” Look for clear, transparent ingredient lists.
6. Consider the material source. Seek out organic cotton, bamboo, or plant-based options over synthetic materials.
7. Research claims. A quick search can help verify if a brand’s “eco-friendly” or “clean” promises are backed by facts.

Once you get into the habit of checking these details, spotting high-quality, non-toxic products does get easier. 

Our round-up of the safest baby products 

Diapers

I’ve tried so. many. diapers. And since this is a product your baby uses daily and is in constant contact with their delicate skin, it’s worth getting right. Check out my full guide here for the safest non-toxic diaper options and what to steer clear of.

Wipes

Wipes and diapers pretty much go hand in hand. And honestly, I thought choosing wipes would be easier since there are so many options out there, but it comes down to really being thorough with checking the labels. My non-toxic wipes blog breaks down the best choices and includes a list of brands you should steer clear of (trust me, some of them really surprised me).

Feeding

Feeding your baby means choosing items you can trust—products that are safe, free from harmful materials, and built to handle daily use. I’ve pulled together some of the best non-toxic options to help make feeding time a little easier and a lot safer.

Bottles

Choosing the right bottle is incredibly important, especially since it’s something your baby will use daily and put in their mouth often. And since babies seem to come into this world with lots of opinions, the bottle they gravitate towards can be personal for them. Focus on finding one they like and that avoids harmful chemicals. Make sure you also prioritize bottles made from glass, stainless steel, or silicone. Here are some top-rated non-toxic options:

• Philips Avent Glass Natural Response Baby Bottle: A favorite with tons of parents and babies, this one is made from durable glass. It’s a great chemical-free option that’s easy to clean and built to last.
• Comotomo Baby Bottles: Made from soft, squeezable silicone, these bottles are BPA-free and mimic a more natural feel, making them ideal for breastfed babies.
• Dr. Brown's Natural Flow Anti-Colic Options+ Baby Bottles: Available in both glass and BPA-free plastic, these bottles are designed to reduce colic and gas with their vent system.
• Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature: Available in BPA-free plastic and glass, these bottles have a breast-like shape for an easy transition between breast and bottle.
• MAM Easy Start: These BPA-free plastic bottles are designed for colic relief. While plastic isn’t ideal, if you do go that route, MAM prioritizes safety with phthalate-free materials.

Sippy cups

As your baby grows, you’ll move on to sippy cups. Opt for ones made from stainless steel, glass, or food-grade silicone for safety. Here are some top non-toxic sippy cups:

• Pura Kiki Stainless Steel Sippy Bottle: A 100% plastic-free option, this bottle is designed to grow with your child—starting with a soft silicone sippy spout and transitioning to a straw lid as they get older.
• Klean Kanteen Stainless Steel Sippy Cap: Made from food-grade stainless steel, this sippy cup is durable and easy to clean.
• Munchkin Miracle Stainless Steel Sippy Cup: This spoutless design allows you to drink from any side of the cup, automatically sealing when your child stops drinking (happy dance for less spills). 

Dishes, forks, and spoons

As you transition to solids, mealtime should be free from harmful chemicals and easy for little hands to use. These are some great non-toxic options:

• Avanchy Bamboo Training Plate Set: Made with organic bamboo and food-grade silicone, this set includes a baby bowl, plate, and spoons (bonus for the suction bases to prevent spills).
• Elk and Friends Stainless Steel Bowls with Silicone Sleeves: These bowls are made from food-grade stainless steel and come with silicone sleeves for added protection and slip resistance.
• WeeSprout Silicone Suction Plates and Bowls: Made from 100% food-grade silicone, these dishes have strong suction bases to keep them in place during mealtime—IYKYK. 
• Ahimsa Stainless Steel Toddler Plate and Bowl Set: Made from durable stainless steel, this plate is designed for toddlers and is free from harmful chemicals.
• Grabease Baby Self-Feeding Utensils: If you're doing baby-led weaning, these are perfect for little hands learning to self-feed. The BPA-free, non-toxic fork and spoon have ergonomic handles and a choke guard for safe, easy use.

Teething

Teething is a tough phase for moms and babies, but having the right tools can at least take the edge off, let you feel like you’re at least doing something, and even make a big difference. Here are some safe, non-toxic baby products in the teething toy category as well as soothing treatments to help your baby (and you) get through it:

Teething toys

• Hevea Panda Teether: Made from 100% natural rubber, this teether is free from harmful chemicals and provides a soft, textured surface for babies to chew on.
• Oli & Carol Fruit and Veggie Teethers: Handmade from natural rubber and hand painted with food-grade dyes, these teethers come in fun shapes like avocados and watermelons, making them both safe and engaging for babies.
• PlanToys Natural Keys Rattle: Made from sustainable wood and free from synthetic chemicals, this teether doubles as a rattle.

Natural teething treatments

• Earthley Teething Relief Drops: This sweet tasting tincture, made with organic herbs like chamomile and catnip, can be rubbed directly onto your baby's gums or added to a frozen washcloth for relief.
• NatureBond Baby Fruit Feeder: I loved using a fruit feeder when my babies were teething. This one is made from 100% food-grade silicone and is non-toxic, safe, and durable. Just add some of their favorite frozen foods (berries are usually a hit) to soothe teething gums. 
• Frozen washcloth: Soak a clean washcloth in water, wring it out, and freeze it for at least an hour. Let your baby chew on the frozen washcloth to numb the gums and provide some relief.

Clothing

The most important criteria for baby clothes? Comfort, safety, and practicality. Look for pieces made from organic or natural fibers like organic cotton, bamboo, or other non-toxic materials that are gentle on sensitive skin. Here are some of my go-to brands: 

• Magnetic Me: A must-have for infants, IMO. I’m always telling my mom friends to add these to their registry. The onesies have ingenious magnetic closures, making diaper changes so much easier. Made from eco-friendly, organic cotton, they’re super soft and free from harmful chemicals.
• Burt’s Bees Baby: A staple clothing brand for affordable organic cotton basics. Their clothing is GOTS-certified, comfy, and safe. 
• Finn + Emma: Made from 100% organic cotton and non-toxic, eco-friendly dyes, their adorable outfits are free of harmful chemicals and perfect for sensitive skin.
• Little Sleepies: Created by a mom for her son with eczema, the cute pjs are made from buttery soft bamboo viscose. Their fabrics are naturally hypoallergenic, breathable, and temperature-regulating. 
• MORI: This brand focuses on sustainable and natural fabrics, like bamboo and organic cotton blends, offering ultra-soft options for everyday wear.
• Hanna Andersson: A trusted favorite, their clothing is made from organic cotton and free of harmful dyes and chemicals. Every item is durable (think hand-me-down quality) and their designs are so cute.

Sleeping

Creating a safe, non-toxic sleep space for your baby is key to helping them rest comfortably—and giving you a sense of calm. These picks make it easy to prioritize safety without compromising on quality or style:

Cribs

• Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 Convertible Crib

  
  
  
  
  • GREENGUARD Gold Certified
  
  
  • Made from sustainable New Zealand pine wood with a non-toxic finish.
  
  
  • Converts to a toddler bed and daybed with an included toddler rail.
  
  

• Pottery Barn Kids Kendall Convertible Crib

  
  
  
  
  • GREENGUARD Gold Certified
  
  
  • Made from solid poplar wood and finished with non-toxic paint.
  
  
  • Converts to a toddler bed with an additional conversion kit.
  
  

• IKEA SNIGLAR Crib

  
  
  
  
  • Made from sustainable beech wood with no harmful finishes.
  
  
  • Affordable, minimalist, and meets safety standards.
  
  

Sheets

• Burt’s Bees Baby Organic Cotton Crib Sheets: These are GOTS-certified organic cotton and super soft and breathable. Bonus that they’re available in adorable prints and solids.
• Newton Baby Breathable Crib Sheets: Made from organic cotton muslin with a breathable design. They’re hypoallergenic and hold up well even with tons of washing.

Swaddles and sleep sacks

• The Ollie Swaddle: I’m obsessed with this swaddle. It’s made from soft, moisture-wicking fabric that’s breathable and stretchable and designed to reduce the startle reflex and keep your baby snug and secure. And it’s so easy to use—no fumbling with trying to wrap your baby up with one long piece of fabric. 
• Merlin’s Magic Sleepsuit: Made from baby safe microfleece or cotton and designed for transitioning out of the swaddle. It also helps reduce the startle reflex. 
• Kyte Baby Sleep Bags: These are designed with bamboo fabric that’s gentle on sensitive skin and naturally breathable. And they’re available in multiple TOG ratings for different seasons. 

Mattresses

Your baby will spend a lot of time sleeping (hopefully!), so their mattress needs to be safe, breathable, and free of harmful chemicals. Here are a few highly recommended options that check all the boxes:

• Newton Baby Crib Mattress: This is a go-to for so many families. GREENGUARD Gold Certified, 100% breathable design to reduce suffocation risks, washable cover and core (such an amazing feature), free of foam, latex, and adhesives. It’s a popular pick for its safety and easy cleaning.
• Naturepedic Organic Crib Mattress: Made with GOTS-certified organic cotton, free of harmful chemicals, and waterproof. Dual firmness makes it perfect for newborns and toddlers.
• Avocado Organic Crib Mattress: This one has a big price tag, but it’s non-toxic and handmade in Los Angeles with organic cotton and wool. It’s also GREENGUARD Gold Certified and free from polyurethane foam and chemical adhesives.

Bathtime

I’ve already put together a guide on non-toxic baby shampoos and another on the best diaper creams, so check those out for detailed recommendations to start you off with your bathtime products. Below, I’ve rounded up a few other non-toxic options to complete your bathtime routine.

Towels

• Burt’s Bees Baby Organic Hooded Towels: Made from 100% organic cotton, these hooded towels are gentle on your baby’s sensitive skin. Bonus that the prints are simple and look cute hanging in your bathroom. 
• Natemia Organic Bamboo Hooded Towel: Incredibly soft and ultra-absorbent, these towels are made from sustainable bamboo and come with lots of great reviews. 

Bubbles

• Puracy Natural Baby Bubble Bath: A gentle, plant-based formula free from parabens, sulfates, and artificial fragrances.
• Babo Botanicals Moisturizing Baby Bubble Bath & Wash: Made with oat milk and calendula, this EWG Verified formula is safe for delicate skin.

Water filter for the spout

Adding a water filter to your baby’s bath can help reduce chlorine, heavy metals, and other unwanted particles that might irritate their sensitive skin or make conditions like eczema worse. It’s a simple way to make bath time a little gentler and more soothing for your baby.

• Bath Ball Faucet Filter by Crystal Quest: Reduces chlorine, sediment, and other impurities in the water to protect your baby’s skin.
• Sprite Showers Ball Bath Filter: Specifically designed for baths, this filter removes harsh chemicals and softens water.

Cleaning

Oh the germs and messes that come with living with children. But at least big and small messes can be handled without using harsh chemicals. For laundry, check out my guide to non-toxic detergents, and for the rest of the house, here are some safe, go-to cleaning products I love. (And keep in mind, many of these messes can be handled with a good multipurpose cleaner, but sometimes it’s nice to have specific options when your surfaces need a little extra love.):

Multi-purpose cleaner

• Branch Basics Concentrate: A plant-based cleaner that’s safe for nearly every surface, (you can use it for kitchens, bathrooms, even for laundry). Just dilute as needed for a non-toxic solution.
• Attitude Nature+ All-Purpose Cleaner: EWG Verified and made with gentle, plant and mineral based ingredients, this cleaner tackles messes without any harsh chemicals.

Tub cleaner

• Attitude Nature + Daily Shower & Tile Cleaner, Citrus Zest: This cleaner is EWG Verified, so it’s safe enough that you don’t have to cringe when your baby’s bum hits the freshly cleaned tub floor. Plus, it can handle stubborn buildup and those annoying lime stains.

Dish soap

• Puracy Natural Dish Soap: Gentle on hands but really works on all those dishes. It’s made with biodegradable ingredients.

Floor cleaner

• Attitude Nature + Floor Surface Cleaner: Made with naturally derived ingredients, this cleaner gets the job done without leaving behind anything you wouldn’t want your crawler’s hands (knees, mouth, feet… you get the picture) touching.

Nursery

Your baby's nursery can be such a sweet and special space and picking out stuffies, prints, and little details should be a fun experience. With the crib, sheets, and cleaning products covered, here are a few extra touches to make the space cozy and functional:

Humidifier

Helps maintain moisture levels for your baby’s comfort—here's my guide to non-toxic humidifiers for top picks!

Air purifier

Keeps the air clean and free from allergens or pollutants, creating a healthier environment for your family. Have you ever seen a dirty air purifier filter? Believe me, you’ll be adding one to your cart immediately when you do. 

• Levoit Core 300 Air Purifier: This compact purifier is perfect for small rooms, effectively filtering out dust, smoke, and pollen. It's user-friendly and operates quietly, making it ideal for bedrooms or nurseries. It also has 100,000+ reviews on Amazon. 
• Coway Airmega AP-1512HH: This is a solid, reliable air purifier that gets the job done without being overly complicated. It has a 4-stage filtration system, which means it tackles everything from dust and pet dander to odors and pollutants. Plus, it has an air quality indicator, eco mode to save energy, and a filter replacement reminder.
• AirDoctor 1000:  A high-performance air purifier for smaller spaces. Its UltraHEPA filter captures particles as tiny as 0.003 microns—think allergens, dust, and mold—so you can breathe easier knowing your space is as fresh and safe as possible.

Non-toxic rugs

Yes, toxins can even be hidden in your rugs. Consider adding a soft spot for tummy time or play without bringing in harmful chemicals. These are some trusted brands that offer non-toxic rug options:

• Pottery Barn Kids: Known for their GREENGUARD Gold Certified rugs that meet strict chemical emissions standards.
• Crate & Kids: Offers non-toxic, eco-friendly rug options made with natural fibers.
• West Elm: Carries several rugs made from sustainably sourced, natural materials like jute and wool.
• Ruggable: They carry specific washable, non-toxic lines. 

On-the-go

When you're on the move with your family, having non-toxic, safe, and convenient gear is essential. Here are some top picks to consider:

Car seats

When choosing a car seat, look for flame-retardant-free fabrics to reduce exposure to unnecessary chemicals. Flame retardants can release particles into the air or transfer to your baby’s skin, making it worth avoiding when possible.

Brands like Nuna, UPPAbaby, Graco, Clek, and Britax offer flame-retardant-free options—but not all models are the same. Check for terms like “naturally flame resistant” or “free from added flame retardants” in the product details before buying.

Strollers

A stroller is one of the most used baby items, so it’s worth making sure it’s safe. Just like with car seats, look for strollers that feature flame-retardant-free fabrics to avoid unnecessary chemical exposure. Other factors to consider include non-toxic finishes and certifications like GREENGUARD Gold for lower chemical emissions.

If you're trying to decide between popular options, my Nuna vs. UPPAbaby blog can help—Nuna car seats are entirely free of chemical flame retardants, and many UPPAbaby models are as well. And other brands like Graco and Chicco offer some non-toxic stroller models—just be sure to check the specific product details before purchasing.

Traveling

If you’re flying with a baby or toddler, you’ve got to bring along toys to keep them happy and entertained. Pack some of their favorites and consider getting a few new non-toxic toys for the journey. Some go-to travel-friendly brands include:

• Fat Brain Toys: Compact, sensory-friendly, and perfect for little hands.
• Lovevery: Thoughtfully designed Montessori-inspired toys that pack well.
• Green Toys: Eco-friendly and durable.

How to stay current with the safest non-toxic baby products

Staying up to date with non-toxic baby products doesn’t need to be a full time job or even a side hustle. With a few simple habits, you can feel confident that the items you’re choosing are safe and free from harmful chemicals. Plus, keeping informed helps you make better decisions as your baby grows and their needs change.

These are a few ways you can be sure you stay in the loop:

• Follow trusted sources for product recalls.
• Subscribe to newsletters from non-toxic brands.
• Check certifications and labels regularly.
• Talk with others you trust for product recommendations (mom friends, pediatricians, and supportive bloggers or influencers you follow).

Keeping these tips in mind can help you feel confident about the products you’re choosing for your baby. Knowing you’ve got safe, reliable options brings a little extra peace of mind—something I know every busy mom could use.

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