THE 50 BEST GREEN BABY PRODUCTS ; Buying for Children is Always Fun, but Where Do Ethical Shoppers Find Organic or Eco-Friendly Goods That Will Appeal to Small Consumers? Clare Dwyer Hogg Asked Baby Experts and Self-Confessed Earth Mothers…

1

TATTY BUMPKIN YOGA BOY DOLL

He’s made by a fair trade co-op in Sri Lanka ” Tatty Bumpkin only uses fair-trade organic products ” and is the first yoga doll on the market. Extremely bendy, and undoubtedly trendy, he can do most of the yoga positions. The idea is that children will copy the movements, developing their own flexibility. ‘[My child] is just learning to walk, so she hasn’t quite managed to stand on her head yet,’ Jude says. ‘But she likes pulling this little doll into all sorts of uncomfortable poses.’

Where from: Tatty Bumpkin (01732 812 212; www.tattybumpkin.com).

How much: pounds 15.

2

TRUUULY SCRUMPTIOUS

Twice winner of the organic food awards, this company produces freshly frozen pots of handmade meals for babies over four months of age. All the food is organic, non-GM, and without preservatives, sugar or salt, and is certified and monitored by the Soil Association. ‘They have a really appetising range, from vegetable- based options such as potato and spinach to hearty meat dishes,’ Joanna says. A selection of sweet pots is also available. Where from: Truuuly Scrumptious (01761 239 300; www.bathorganicbabyfood.co.uk; www.olimia.com), stockists all over the UK.

How much: from pounds 1.45.

3

TRICOTTI SLING

It can be used from birth up until your baby is two years old, and is very popular among parents, winning the Platinum Award for Best Sling in Babygear and Toddler magazine this year. ‘This elegant baby sling allows you to ‘wear your baby’,’ Janet enthuses. ‘Comfortable, practical and very stylish, it’s my favourite baby carrier.’ Made with machine-washable cotton that contains non-toxic chemical-free dyes, it’s safe for your baby to chew. Allows for four different carrying positions. Where from: Baby Hut (01273 245 864; www.babyhut.co.uk). How much: pounds 44.99.

4

FUZZI BUNZ CLOTH POCKET NAPPY

These are washable ‘pocket nappies’: between a waterproof outer layer and a microfleece inner layer, there’s space to put disposable, absorbent pads. ‘The fleece layer remains fairly dry even if the nappy is very wet, so they don’t feel as wet as some other cloth nappies against the baby’s skin,’ Naomi says. The pocket feature makes changing easier. Popper fastened, they dry quickly ” no need for any ecologically unsound tumble-drying ” and come in a rainbow of colours. Where from: www.fuzzibunz.com (includes stockist list) or secondhand from www.ukparents.co.uk. How much: from approximately pounds 9 each (recommended amount: 12 nappies, washed every other day).

5

THE NATURAL NURSERY SKIN CREAM

‘This is a fantastic, multi-purpose cream that is totally unadulterated and just about as ecofriendly as it gets,’ Arabella enthuses. She has good reason to be a fan: this pure nut-butter from West Africa is organically grown and fairly traded. Rich in vitamins A, E and F, it is highly recommended for use on nappy and teething rash, dry skin, sore noses, insect bites, skin blemishes and itching skin. Multi-purpose indeed. Where from: The Natural Nursery, as before. How much: pounds 3.25 for 100g.

6

ROCKING AND ROLLING WOODEN PARROT

Everyone agrees there are few things more fun than riding around on a brightly coloured parrot. But this product is also an ingenious idea, bearing in mind how quickly children develop: initially a rocker, you can remove the bolts to free the wheels and it becomes a ride-on. ‘When Ruby was a bit younger the rocking was lots of fun, but now it’s on wheels, she can scoot round the flat,’ Jude says. ‘It’s sturdy enough to use in the garden, too.’ Also comes as a horse or dog. Where from: Arujo, as before. How much: pounds 99.95.

7

HIPP ORGANIC FIRST INFANT MILK

‘I tried several other brands myself,’ Joanna says, ‘because if I was going to convince Finn to drink something I wanted to be able to look him in the eye. I felt totally happy knowing it was organic and actually tasted like milk. He loved it, as did Niamh.’ This First Infant Milk is formulated to be nutritionally close to breast milk, uses no GM ingredients, and is comparable in price to non-organic brands. Where from: Hipp (0845 050 1351; www.hipp.co.uk for stockists) and leading supermarkets and health food shops. How much: from approximately pounds 6.49 for 900g (powdered).

8

DISANA MOLTENTUCH BLANKET

These fully organic brushed-cotton blankets are great for swaddling, which ‘helps newborns feel comforted and makes feeding easier’, Janet says. It’s comforting to know that you’re wrapping your baby in a material that hasn’t been pumped with chemicals. Good value, too. Where from: Active Birth Centre, 25 Bickerton Road, London (020-7281 6760; www.activebirthcentre.com). How much: pounds 10.99 for two.

9

KOOSHIES SWIM NAPPY

‘Its adjustable Velcro fastening means [my son] has used his since he was four months, and it still fits him at 15 months,’ Naomi says. Made from ripstop nylon, with an inner mesh layer inside the swim nappy, it’s durable, and the Velcro and ties allow a good fit around the legs and waist. It isn’t a pull-up, so it all stays in the nappy.

Where from: Twinkle (0118 969 5550; www.twinkleontheweb.co.uk). How much: pounds 8.

10

BABY ORGANICS CLEANSER

‘A no-soap, no-water cream ideal for newborns,’ Arabella says. It is an organic blend of calendula, rosehip, camomile and evening primrose oil that doesn’t irritate or dry the skin. Apply it with cotton wool as wipes often contain propylene glycol (anti-freeze). Where from: My Pure (0845 456 0639; www.mypure.co.uk). How much: pounds 5.99 for 250ml.

11

GOURD KARIMBA

The Carewear Trading Co is behind Ecobaby Basics, born three years ago. For a toddler enterprise, it’s very advanced. The aim is to ‘offer products that are good for you without damaging the planet or harming the people who produce them’. Proving them right, Jude has discovered that this Gourd Karimba (self-tunable thumb piano) has been good for her ears. ‘The noises my daughter Ruby makes on it are beautiful, which is more than can be said for some of her other ‘musical’ toys,’ she says. Where from: Ecobaby Basics (01223 811 633; www.ecobabybasics.com). How much: pounds 17.63.

12

MUMS 4 ORGANIC FRUIT YOGHURTS

As the name might suggest, two mothers who tired of the sweeteners in children’s yoghurts decided to make some themselves. And they have an appreciative fan base. ‘It’s astounding that this is the only yoghurt aimed at children that has no added sugars or sweeteners,’ Joanna says. ‘They don’t even use fruit concentrates and the yogurt is delicious ” really creamy.’ The yoghurt is whole- milk, the fruit organic, and on the pot you’ll find an explanation for why each ingredient is there. Where from: Mums 4 (01926 771 285; www.mums4.com), Waitrose, Tesco, Asda, Fresh and Wild.

How much: from pounds 1.80 for four.

13

THERALINE MATERNITY AND NURSING PILLOW

This pillow is made with a unique polystyrene that has been specially treated so that it doesn’t smell. Anti-allergenic and CE- approved (containing no unpleasant chemicals), it’s supportive and breathable, and gently curved so that it can make sleeping more comfortable before you give birth. When your baby is born, it supports the baby’s weight while feeding, which prevents shoulder strain. ‘It’s a perfect breastfeeding pillow and good for support later on while your baby learns to sit,’ Janet says. Machine- washable at 60 degrees, with a choice of covers. Where from: Bump To 3 (0870 606 0276; www.bumpto3.com). How much: from pounds 29.95.

14

NATURE BOY & GIRL DISPOSABLES

Sometimes washable nappies seem too much to handle with a newborn, or if you’re on holiday. These ecofriendly disposables from Sweden with 70 per cent natural and degradable materials are a good option. They aren’t fully biodegradable, but instead of the plastic surface common in disposables, they use natural tree pulp and film from non-GM, natural maize, which means the baby’s skin can breathe naturally. ‘The papery texture is lovely,’ Naomi confirms. ‘Ezekiel doesn’t get nappy rash with these like he does with big brand disposables.’ Where from: www.naty.com, Sainsbury’s, Waitrose. How much: about pounds 5.65.

15

MOTHER EARTH MOTHER AND BABY BUTTER

‘This is just lovely to use,’ Arabella assures us. ‘It’s a truly natural balm ” and it’s made with Rescue Remedy!’ That aside, however, this body butter is a treat: it’s an unfragranced, deep moisturiser that also contains organic sunflower oil, almond oil, vitamin E, jojoba oil, and a host of other good-for-you ingredients. So it’s healthy and it feels like a luxury! Where from: Cut 4 Cloth (01326 340 956; www.cut4cloth.co.uk).

How much: pounds 15.30 for 250ml.

16

BALLOON SPEEDBOAT

This clever wooden speedboat needs only air to power it: you place the balloon on the little funnel at the top, and then blow gently through a tube at the back. The balloon inflates and off sails the most ecofriendly, non-energy-wasting boat known to man (or baby). And it’s fun, too. ‘Ruby squeals with delight as it glides across the local paddling pool, and loves it just as much in the bath,’ confirms Jude. Where from: Ecobaby Basics, as before. How much: pounds 10.46.

17

HIPP ORGANIC GROWING UP MILK

This vanilla-flavoured follow-on milk is especially formulated for toddlers over 10 months, providing proteins, energy, iron and vitamins. It can be drunk on its own, or mixed with food. ‘This was a revelation to me,’ says Joanna. ‘It’s a new product and comes in a bottle ready to drink, which is fab if you’re on holiday or out visiting. Niamh loved it, and Finn calls it his sister’s ‘big girl’ milk.’ Also comes in powdered form (pounds 4.49) with enough for three bottles. Where from: Hipp, as before.

How much: from about 99p.

18

GROBAG BABY SLEEPING BAG

One hundred per cent cotton, with nickel-free zips and ecofriendly dyes, this baby sleeping bag is fast becoming the difference between a good night’s sleep (for parent and child) or not. Unlike loose sheets, your baby can’t wriggle under them (which can be dangerous), kick them off, or get their legs entangled in the cot bars. ‘It keeps your baby at the right temperature,’ says Janet.It comes in a range of tog-ratings to suit the season, and incorporates a thermometer to be doubly safe. Where from: Gro-group (0870 420 4920; www.gro-group.co.uk).

How much: from pounds 29.99.

19

BAMBO NATURE ECO-DISPOSABLE NAPPY

‘This is a slightly more expensive option,’ Naomi says. ‘But worth it, and much better on your conscience.’ The price is a bit higher because this disposable nappy comes with a stamp of approval from the Scandinavian eco-label Swan. This guarantees that the nappy is free from perfumes and moisturisers, and that in the production process a minimum level of renewable raw materials has been used, as well as a limit kept on the amount of waste. Where from: The Nappy Lady (0845 456 2441; www.thenappylady.co.uk).

How much: from pounds 4.75.

20

ESSENTIAL CARE ORGANIC REPAIR LOTION

A natural eczema remedy, this lotion is light and very easily absorbed, so children can use it as well as adults. It contains organic chickweed (certified by the Soil Association) ” which traditionally is used to relieve itching ” organic olive oil and shea butter to relieve irritation, as well as organic aloe vera to promote healing. ‘These ingredients cool and calm atopic eczema,’ Arabella says. ‘There’s bioactive camomile in there, too: in independent tests it had an anti-inflammatory action like mild hydrocortisone ointment, but without the side effects.’ Where from: Essential Care (01284 728 416; www.essential-care.co.uk).

How much: pounds 7.95 for 60ml.

21

ORGANIC COTTON FAT RABBIT DOLL

Baby Sleep Shop is just nine months old, created by a husband- and-wife team who found a niche in the market and are now filling it rather well. This doll is made from 100 per cent organic Egyptian cotton, and gets the thumbs-up from parents as well as children. ‘Fat Rabbit’s cotton is really soft and cuddly, and Ruby sleeps with him in her cot every night,’ Jude says. ‘The adults like him because his porky belly and tiny head look pretty comical.’ Where from: Baby Sleep Shop (www.babysleepshop.com). How much: pounds 9.

22

CLEARSPRING 100% ORGANIC FRUIT PUREES

‘Finn recently went off fresh fruit,’ Joanna says, ‘so these organic purees are a good way to give her pure vitamins with no added sugar ” just fruit.’ Without sweeteners or preservatives, Clearspring use a two- step process that keeps heating to a minimum, maximising natural goodness. The apple puree is available in four varieties: pure apple, apple and blueberry, apple and plum, apple and apricot. They’re a hit with Niamh and Joanna too ” especially chilled on a hot day. Where from: Clearspring (0871 871 6611; www.clearspring.co.uk), selected supermarkets and health shops.

How much: from pounds 1 for two pots.

23

BEAMING BABY BEDSHEETS

‘These are ideal covers for your baby,’ Janet thinks. ‘Use them with cellular blankets to meet safety recommendations and keep your baby snug at night.’ The fitted cot sheets are 100 per cent organic brushed cotton, with a percale weave for maximum comfort. Your baby will be lying on pure materials and benefiting from the sheets’ soothing properties ” anything that aids sleep should be welcome! Where from: Beaming Baby (0800 034 5672; www.beamingbaby.com).

How much: from pounds 9.99.

24

BIODEGRADABLE NAPPY SACKS

‘There’s no point using a biodegradable nappy and putting it in a ordinary plastic bag,’ laughs Naomi. She has a point. Short of pinching the biodegradable dog-poop bags on Hampstead Heath (yes, some parents have been known to do this), these do the trick. 100 per cent biodegradable and compostable, the Nature Bio nappy bags are unperfumed and based on natural corn-starch film. And you don’t have to hike through woodland to get them, either. Where from: Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, www.thenappylady.co.uk, www.naty.com.

How much: from pounds 1.59.

25

LANSINOH LANOLIN

‘This stuff is fantastic for sore nipples when you’re starting to breastfeed,’ Arabella advises. ‘And this brand in particular has exceptionally pure lanolin.’ In fact, the company says its lanolin is officially the world’s purest, which is something of a recommendation. It can provide immediate pain relief by coating the raw nerve endings, while in the long term preventing a scab from forming through speedy ‘moist wound-healing’. Where from: Lansinoh (0113 269 1000; www.lansinoh.co.uk), Waitrose, Boots, Mothercare. How much: pounds 9.95 for 56g.

26

ANIMAL SPINNING TOPS

These cute spinning tops are made out of rubberwood sourced from exhausted rubber plantations that are replanted every 10 to 15 years. And they’re so cheap that it’s easy to build up a colourful collection. Among the selection, you can choose from a bee, a castle, a bus, a fairy… ‘Ruby likes the cow best,’ Jude informs us. ‘but she loves any of these spinning tops: the art is lovely, and because it’s made from a sustainable material, we feel good about having a few in this set.’ Where from: Ecotopia, 32 High Street, Stroud (01453 752 345; www.ecotopia.co.uk). How much: pounds 1.65 each.

27

ORGANIX FIRST FOODS BABY RICE

Organix was founded by Lizzie Vann, who was aware of the guilt parents sometimes feel if they don’t have time to make up home- cooked baby food for their children. Joanna recommends Organix Baby Rice, which is the equivalent of home cooking. ‘It’s simple, affordable, organic rice which is very easy to make up,’ she says. ‘It’s a fab way for your baby to first try solid food: both of mine loved it.’ This, like the rest of the Organix range, doesn’t contain processed sugars, salt, thickeners or processing aids. Where from: Baby Organix (0800 393 511; www.babyorganix.co.uk), Sainsbury’s, Waitrose. How much: from about pounds 1.59.

28

BOWRON BABYCARE LAMBSKIN

This natural lambskin comforter from New Zealand can be used all through the seasons. It ensures that your baby is cool in the summer and warm in the winter. It also naturally repels dirt and moisture, which means you don’t need to wash it very often ” but when you need to, it’s machine- washable. ‘It’s a lovely comforter for your baby to lie on during the day or while being massaged,’ Janet says. ‘My top tip is to use it in late pregnancy yourself to ease aching hips when you sleep.’ Where from: Active Birth Centre (020-7281 6760; www.activebirthcentre.com).

How much: pounds 47.

29

NAPPY LAUNDRY

More a service than a product, but vital to know about, Naomi insists. ‘A laundry service is a great way to get started on washable nappies,’ she says. ‘I used them for a month or so at the beginning before home washing. It eases you in.’ The service, which collects your soiled nappies and returns them fresh and clean, is often subsidised by local councils. For first-timers, The Nappy Lady company has a list of services in your area, and provides advice about which type of washable nappy is best for your baby. Where from: The Nappy Lady (0845 456 2441; www.thenappylady.co.uk).

How much: from about pounds 30 per month.

30

WELEDA NAPPY CHANGE CREAM

‘This cream is a firm favourite from one of the original and leading natural toiletry companies,’ Arabella thinks. ‘It borrows very heavily from its homoeopathic roots.’ True to form, then, this cream uses the herb calendula, which is often employed to treat localised skin problems. Deeply nourishing, it acts as a barrier in the nappy area, soothing sensitive skin. Also suitable for vegetarians who prefer to use non-animal-based products. Where from: Weleda (0115 944 8200; www.weleda.co.uk).

How much: pounds 4.95 for 75ml.

31

WOODEN CAT BABY CLIP

This ethical toy company makes sure that all materials used come from environmentally friendly resources. Daughter Ruby approves, says Jude. ‘She plays with this cat for hours in her pram and makes ‘miaowing’ noises while it jangles and jingles in front of her. We’ve clipped it on the inside of the buggy, but other babies are always trying to pull it off!’ For good reason: brightly coloured with a little ringing bell, it calls out for small hands to grab at it. Made from beech and maple wood sourced from Germany. Where from: Arujo (01295 271 218; www.arujo.co.uk). How much: pounds 6.95.

32

HIPP ORGANIC CREAMED PORRIDGE BREAKFAST

Instantly made up with water or milk, this creamed porridge breakfast gets a big thumbs-up for convenience. ‘Niamh still loves this, even at well over a year old,’ Joanna affirms. ‘And if she’s ever feeling poorly and doesn’t fancy anything else, this is wonderful because it’s delicious but very simple and comforting.’ Among its nutritious ingredients you’ll find organic wholemeal oat flour, organic rice semolina, and organic follow- on milk. Where from: Hipp (0845 050 1351; www.hipp.co.uk), leading supermarkets and health food shops .

How much: from about 53p.

33

CUT 4 CLOTH SHORT SLEEVE COTTON BODY

This short-sleeved baby body is made from 100 per cent high- quality organic cotton. Janet recommends it because it’s ‘lovely and soft and easy to put on. It’s a great way to be sure that there are no dyes or chemicals next to your baby’s delicate skin.’ In addition, the poppers are nickel-free, and the envelope neck makes putting it on a wriggling baby less tricky. If you’re using washable nappies, it’s also a good choice because it’s made longer in the body and wider in the beam for exactly that purpose. Where from: Cut 4 Cloth, as before; So Organic (0800 169 2579; www.soorganic.com).

How much: pounds 4.75.

34

GREEN BABY ECOBALLS

A welcome alternative to traditional detergents’ harsh chemicals, Ecoballs produce ionised oxygen, activating water molecules to lift dirt. Hypoallergenic and antibacterial, they kill Escherichia Coli and Staphylococcus Aureus, so are great for nappies, but they don’t fade colours, and have softening properties. Reusable over 1,000 washes (3p per wash), they’re also better for the environment. ‘These are amazing,’ Naomi says. ‘My friend has had hers for nine months, and washes all the laundry with them ” not just nappies.’ Where from: Green Baby shops, Islington, London N1 and Notting Hill, London W11 (0870 240 6894; www.greenbaby.co.uk).

How much: pounds 34.99, plus free refill pellets and a stain remover.

35

PURE POTIONS CAMOMILE BABY OIL

‘This camomile oil is nice and light, which is good for cleansing and massage,’ Arabella says. Pure Potions was set up by a mother whose baby developed chronic eczema, so the ingredients, as you may expect, are very pure: cold-pressed organic sunflower and safflower oil, and organic camomile and organic lavender essential oil. It can be used daily: in the bath, for cleansing during nappy changes, or for massage. Suitable for vegans to use, too. Where from: Pure Potions (01273 623 123; www.purepotions.co.uk). How much: pounds 4 for 100ml.

36

MAGNETIC FISHING GAME

The fishermen in this little wooden boat are charged with catching as many fish as they can, with the help of magnetic fishing rods. ‘I remember playing this game when I was small,’ Jude says. ‘Now Ruby loves it. Little does she know it’s sneakily teaching her hand-to-eye coordination and, when she’s older, to count.’ Each fish has a number (in figures and dots) to aid just that. All the materials used are fairly traded and from renewable resources. Where from: The Natural Nursery, 185 North St, Bristol (0845 890 1665; www.naturalnursery.co.uk). How much: pounds 9.99.

37

HIPP ORGANIC TODDLER RUSKS

When babies are teething, they want to bite everything, so they might as well be chewing something organic. ‘Finn loved these toddler rusks when he was teething and then when he was really getting into solid food,’ Joanna remembers. Just the right shape to fit into tiny hands, they taste like biscuits, but are much healthier. Joanna also recommends them for plugging shouts in the supermarket. Where from: Hipp, as before, leading supermarkets and health food shops. How much: from about 99p for 100g.

38

CUT 4 CLOTH KIMONO

This 100 per cent organic cotton long-sleeved kimono makes the process of dressing a baby as easy as it can be. Janet agrees. ‘This is a newborn essential,’ she says. ‘They are so easy to slip on without pulling over your baby’s head.’ Cut 4 Cloth makes clothes that are soft and strong, but free from chemicals too. Ethically manufactured, the cotton is picked in rural India from a government- declared bio-zone, and the finished (unbleached) product is coloured with environmentally responsible dyes. Where from: So Organic (0800 169 2579; www.soorganic.com). How much: pounds 5.99.

39

TERRY WASHABLE WIPES

If you’re trying to minimise the number of disposable wipes you use, these are a good, environmentally friendly alternative. They can be washed at 60 degrees with the nappies, and after the initial outlay, cost nothing. ‘Compare this with around the pounds 250 you’d spend on disposable wipes,’ Naomi says. ‘Plus, they’re really handy: I use them as a little facecloth in the bath, too.’ Easy to carry, they can fit into a small Tupperware tub. Where from: The Nappy Lady, as before. How much: pounds 2.20 for 10.

40

ELDERFLOWER, MANDARIN AND TEA TREE SHAMPOO

‘A little really goes a long way with this concentrated, gentle shampoo,’ Arabella says. ‘And it’s suitable for the whole family.’ It contains soothing organic lavender and elderflower, extracts of corn and coconut for gentle cleansing, olive oil and aloe vera to prevent dryness, and tea tree, mandarin and lavender for gentle antiseptic properties. Plus, it’s free from alcohol, artificial perfumes and animal ingredients. Where from: Organic Children (www.organicchildren.com).

How much: pounds 5.99 for 200ml.

41

LADYBIRD WHEELIE BUG

This larger-than-life pet is not your average ladybird. It’s fair trade for a start. Big enough to ride on, it’s also the right size for a toddler to push around. ‘My 14-month-old is just learning to walk,’ says Jude. ‘So as well as being fun, this gives her a real sense of confidence. It also looks gorgeous.’ The layer of sponge on the body makes it soft enough for a small posterior, while the vinyl covering means any that spillages are easily wiped clean. Where from: The Natural Nursery, as before. How much: Small (one to two- and-a-half years), pounds 49.95; large (two to five-and-a-half years), pounds 59.95.

42

ORGANIX JUMBO BREADSTICKS

‘Having these tasty breadsticks can turn the mood of a grisly hungry one- or two-year old,’ Joanna says. ‘They can keep them happy until lunch is on the table, which is invaluable!’ Quiet children enjoying something that is good for them ” there’s a treat for everyone involved. You know, too, that the company’s ethos ensures they’re cooked simply and for short periods to keep the taste fresh. They also come in a parmesan-flavoured variety.

Where from: Baby Organix (www.babyorganix.co.uk), Sainsbury’s, Waitrose. How much: 99p for 90g.

43

HIRSCH NATUR SOCKS

‘Babies’ feet are usually cooler than the rest of the body,’ Janet says. ‘These little cotton socks are an ideal way to keep your baby warm and cosy in summer or winter.’ These cute little ones are 100 per cent organic cotton, and originate from Europe. Available in navy or white. Tip: if your baby suffers from dry skin on their feet, rub them with a little bit of olive oil and put on a pair of cotton socks to keep in the moisture.

Where from: The Natural Nursery, as before.

How much: pounds 2.99 per pair.

44

FLUSHABLE STAYDRY NAPPY LINERS

To make the washable process less messy, flushable nappy liners are recommended. ‘They catch the pooh and then you just flush the whole thing away,’ Naomi says, not mincing words. ‘These definitely make life easier.’ Placed on top of the nappy, next to the baby’s skin, they let moisture to pass through, but hold solids. And if the nappy is only wet, the liner can be washed a few times with the nappy and reused. Where from: Free Range Kids (01253 896 290; www.freerangekids.co.uk). How much: pounds 3.50 for 100 sheets (includes delivery).

45

VIRGIN OLIVE OIL

‘Don’t underestimate the value of this easily available, multi- purpose oil,’ laughs Arabella. ‘Use it for baby massage, treating dry skin and cradle cap or as a general moisturiser in the nappy area.’ The benefit, too, of course, is that you are guaranteed that the product is pure while not having to shell out wads of cash for a big-name label. Just don’t be too liberal with the stuff ” it’s a baby you’re dressing, not a salad. Where from: supermarkets, deli.

How much: prices vary, from about 64p per 100ml.

46

WOODEN TRAIN SET

‘This train set is a simple classic, which is nice in itself,’ Jude says, ‘but it’s all the better knowing that the materials used haven’t harmed the environment.’ It’s made from renewable resources, and has fair- trade origins. And for less than pounds 10, your child gets a complete wooden train set that includes tracks, trains, buildings and accessories. The components are compatible with other wooden-train set brands. Where from: The Natural Nursery, as before.

How much: pounds 9.99.

47

BABYNAT ORGANIC PEACHES

An especially handy snack when you’re out, or as a naturally sweet (and wholesome) dessert after dinner. The peaches are sourced from farms that undergo rigorous checks and they are processed to make sure they don’t contain toxins or nitrates. Suitable for children from four months.

Where from: Goodness Direct (www.goodnessdirect.co.uk).

How much: pounds 1.79 for 350g.

48

UNDER THE NILE HOODED BABY TOWEL

Hooded baby towels are great. ‘They’re warm and snug after bathing,’ Janet says, ‘and they will dry your baby’s hair while you give him or her a post-bath cuddle.’ This one is made from fully organic Egyptian demeter ” soft and thick cotton. Big enough to use on toddlers, and with chic green edging, too.

Where from: Globalkids (01530 457 146; www.globalkids.co.uk).

How much: pounds 14.99.

49

LADYBIRD NAPPY BUCKET

If you don’t wash washable nappies every day, you have to store soiled ones. Experts suggest washing every other day, to keep smells at bay, and you may also soak them (see ww.thenappylady. co.uk for advice).’Buy specially designed buckets or use a plastic bucket with a tight-fitting lid, which you can get from hardware stores,’ Naomi advises. Where from: Woolworths (01706 862 789; www.woolworths.co.uk).

How much: pounds 3.99.

50

LAVENDER AND CHAMOMILE MILK BATH

A bestselling Organic Pharmacy product. ‘It’s ideal to calm babies and children before bed,’ confirms Arabella. ‘And it smells adorable.’ Lightly fragranced, it leaves skin smooth and soft: blue camomile is high in chamazulene ” great for sensitive or itchy skin ” while the lavender is calming. Where from: The Organic Pharmacy (020-7351 2232; www.theorganicpharmacy.com).

How much: pounds 12 for 120g.

THE PANEL Janet Balaskas is the founder of the Active Birth Movement and directs the Active Birth Centre in north London. Naomi Day is the mother of a 16-month-old baby. Arabella Greatorex set up the Natural Nursery for ethically aware families a year ago with her husband, and has a two-year-old child. Joanna Lockwood is the mother of two children under three. Jude Salvador is a film and media- studies teacher and mother of a 14-month-old baby.