Ben and me, Berkeley, CA, by Boho Denise, Canon Rebel Xti

I know I’m not the only mom/auntie/grandma who is concerned about lead paint and phthalates (chemicals used to make certain plastics) in their kid’s toys. I’ve already had to throw away some of Ben’s things that were recalled and I am looking at everything else in the toy bin with a suspicious eye. Of course everything (even the bottom of my shoes and the stroller tires) is chewed and licked like a fine delicacy. It’s so hard to know what’s safe!

I was inspired by an article I read in Mothering magazine to compile a short list of safe, non-toxic options for bottles, teethers, toys, etc. Feel free to pass it along! (or buy the new issue of Mothering for the full scoop)

Toxin-free toys:
Oompa: Lots of wooden toys made in Europe.
A Bumble bee to ride into the sunset… and other toys at Maukilo.
Nova Natural: Love their rainbow blocks and stackers…
Another awesome wooden toy company called Brio that has been around forever. It seems to specialize in railway toys.
I love this cake decorating kit at Mahar Dry Goods
Natural pod: I like this stone cave.
Tiny Love
Kangarooboo

My favorite organic clothing shops:
Happy Green Bee
Speesees
A Little Lark

Baby body care products: (My favorites)
California Baby
Little Twig

Botttles and sippy cups:
Born Free
Adiri Natural Nurser
Evenflo glass bottles
Klean Kanteen
Lasinoh safe storage bottles
Sigg bottles are safe and stylish

Bibs and teethers
Tiny Love
Haba
First Years
Gerber