EnviroCitizen.org understands the discomfort that teething causes little ones and the struggle parents face when looking for safe, convenient ways to sooth the pain. In today,s market there are a wealth of plastic teething tools from which parents can choose. They are convenient, colorful and fairly inexpensive. However, the convenience and colorful shapes come at a much higher price than what you see on the price tag. The polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or vinyl that so many of these toys are made of frequently contains toxic additives that have been linked in animal studies to a variety of illnesses, including endocrine damage and damage to the kidneys, liver and other organs. The problem is that these complex molecules don,t all stay in some plastics, but some leak out. Fortunately, there are numerous, non-toxic alternatives that are also green for babies.
Teething rings or similar objects made from tough and easily cleaned latex or silicone work well to satisfy this need. Teething toys and pacifiers made of latex or silicone do not contain harmful compounds from plastic. There are many colors and designs for these from animals to pacifiers to some that look like bracelets. They are also dishwasher-safe, so they can be very convenient to clean.
Organic cotton toys are also becoming popular for teething babies. Cotton can be used wet, dry or frozen and easily reaches around gums and teeth. There are some firmer ones being sold as well with maple on the inside from North American forests.
For a new kind of plastic teether, there are some that are being made from cornstarch. These alternatives are biodegradable and compostable. However, it is important to note that these are not recommended to be put in the dishwasher as they will break down.
For an all-in-one kit, there are a few being offered that have teethers and homeopathetic remedies for the pain. Burt,s Bees and Nature's First Aid Kits combine homeopathy, herbs, essential oils, aromatherapies and other natural products for common minor ailments. Also included in each kit is a booklet that describes each kit and gives a brief introduction to homeopathy, herbal remedies, essential oils, and aromatherapies. The kit is perfect for a novice just becoming familiar with natural healing methods. The Baby Teething Kit is the perfect thing for new parents that want only pure, all-natural products for their babies. It includes a water-based teething relief homeopathic spray, calming aromatherapy spray and alcohol-free chamomile herbal tea with a 100% organic cotton teething doll.
EnviroCitizen.org has discovered that there are lots of eco-options available to help parents and babies get through that tough phase in development. Many of these products are found at major retailers or online.
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