Creating a Healthier Nursery: What Science Says About Non-Toxic Baby Products
Did you know your baby makes one million neural connections every second? Or that 80% of brain development happens by age three? These staggering statistics are reshaping how we think about the products we surround our babies with during their critical early years.
In this episode of Mysha’s Ask the Expert series, we sat down with Regina Fechter, the innovation powerhouse behind HealthyBaby, who's been creating better products for babies from food to formula to diapers. She cuts through the "non-toxic" noise with practical advice about what really matters when it comes to healthy baby development.
Tune in to the full episode, or dive into the key takeaways from this conversation:
Why Non-Toxic Baby Products Matter More Than You Think
In our latest Mysha Conversation, Regina Fechter, HealthyBaby's brand and innovation leader, shares eye-opening research about baby development and environmental impact. With over eight years of experience launching 100+ products at Happy Baby Organics, Regina brings a unique perspective on what really matters in your baby's environment.
The Hidden Impact of Everyday Products
Recent studies reveal a concerning truth: over 200 chemicals can be found in newborns' cord blood at birth. This discovery highlights the importance of choosing safer products, especially those in constant contact with your baby.
Smart Swaps for a Healthier Nursery
Regina recommends focusing on these key areas:
Diaper Selection
Choose EWG-verified options
Consider plastic-neutral alternatives
Focus on transparency in ingredients (we love HealthyBaby as the first EWG-verified diaper on the market - code MYSHA for 15% off)
Sleep Environment
Invest in non-toxic crib mattresses (Naturepedic mattresses are a great option)
Watch for off-gassing materials
Prioritize organic bedding
Bath Time Essentials
Replace plastic bath mats with silicone alternatives
Choose safer body care products (check EWG app)
Consider water quality
Feeding Supplies
Consider glass bottles with silicone covers over plastic (especially if using bottle warmers)
Consider silicone or stainless steel utensils, cups, and tableware (we love Lalo’s feeding products - code MYSHAFAM15 for 15% off)
Budget-Smart Priorities
Instead of splurging on expensive strollers or trendy gear, Regina suggests redirecting your budget to items that directly impact your baby's health:
Daily-use items
Products with extended skin contact
Essential feeding supplies
The Most Powerful Factor in Baby's Development
While product choices matter, Regina emphasizes that the most impactful element in baby's development is free: your presence and connection. Simple activities during everyday moments create powerful learning opportunities. HealthyBaby has a library of development activities by age and stage if you need some inspiration.
Resources and References:
Environmental Working Group (EWG) Verification Standards: https://www.ewg.org/ewgverified/
EWG's Skin Deep Database (for checking product safety): https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/
HealthyBaby's Ingredient Transparency Guide: https://healthybaby.com/pages/ingredient-standards
HealthyBaby's Development Library: https://healthybaby.com/pages/development-library
CDC Brain Development Research: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/childdevelopment/early-brain-development.html
