Appealing as it sounds to escape and hibernate (especially when you’re expecting your own little cub), humans must endure the shorter days, dipping temperatures, and holiday hoopla of winter. As you manage daily responsibilities, spread holiday cheer, and attend family events, you’ll likely find that there are not enough minutes in the day, days in the week, or weeks in the month to get to everything—including carving out precious time for yourself. Here are our top ways to pamper yourself without ever having to leave home:

Preen. Run the shower hot to create a humid, steam-filled sanctuary, which will induce sweating to help your body release impurities and relieve water retention. Then dial back the heat before stepping in. Many studies have shown that good health, hygiene, and appearance positively impact our self-esteem and how we feel. To capitalize on that good hair day, gently cleanse locks with Nine Naturals Citrus + Mint Nourishing Shampoo to improve elasticity, increase strength, and restore moisture; and coat them in the oil and butter rich formula of Nine Naturals Mandarin + Ginger Restorative Conditioner to add luster and improve hair texture.

Polish. Whether it be bold and edgy nail art or a classy and neutral french, nothing makes a woman feel more primped and pampered than a fresh manicure. To avoid cold and flu germs that are swirling in the air, become your own manicurist. All you need are a few hot nail colors—try Trust Fund Beauty polish in Money Buys Happiness, I Had It First, Put A Ring On It, Rich Bitch, Insta-Famous, and I’m Kind Of A Big Deal. These 5-free, non-toxic nail polishes and treatments are safe for expectant moms, persons with skin sensitivities, and children because they don’t contain carcinogenic and reproductively dangerous chemicals like formaldehyde, dibutyl phthalate, camphor, and more.

Play. Besides the obvious fun-factor, getting dolled up is a great and inexpensive way to learn what colors and techniques work best for your face shape, skin tone, and eye color, which in turn can make you feel more beautiful and confident. You don’t need a final destination to play with makeup. With your favorite makeup palettes, experiment with different looks. We love using Honeybee Gardens’ Cosmopolitan Eye Shadow Palette’s to create that evening smoky eye. Complete the look by painting your pout with Truly Natural Lipstick in Heirloom (a matte, classic pink) or Seduction (a matte, neutral rose/mauve).

Perfect. Decorate and pamper skin by spritzing it with an all-natural fragrance that doesn’t upset your pregnant-nose, like Pour le Monde Parfums' Empower, a fresh and vibrant scent with top notes of citrus, middle notes of woody herbs, and base notes of cedar wood will uplift you despite the current weather. Pour Le Monde Fragrances are phthalate-free and derived from safe, natural oils and to work with your body chemistry to create a truly unique fragrance on skin.

Primp. Dress your good looking--and even better feeling--body in your chic loungewear or evening wear (comfort is key at this stage of your pregnancy)! Enjoy your favorite restaurants or have your partner order-in from your favorite fancy place--dining in using your finest china. Maintaining a mutually supportive partnership is an important part of preserving positive emotional health during this ever-changing stage of your lives, so find ways to “treat” one another based on your likes and hobbies.

Nurture your mind, body, and spirit often, and be sure to continue this positive self-care even after you welcome your precious baby into the world. Share your look with us by using #NineNaturals! Cheers to the New Year!

NINE NATURALS WINTER PREGNANCY GLOW GIVEAWAY:

WEEK 4 PAMPER & GLOW

When Erin Schurtz became pregnant, like every mom, she scoured for pregnancy-safe nutrition products to ensure the health of herself and baby. She found products that provided the recommended amounts of folic acid, iron, and calcium, but couldn’t find any that provided an extra 15 grams of protein. This was because most protein powders and power bars were not safe for pregnant or nursing women. And thus, Mommi 3-in-1 (prenatal protein shake) was born.

Fast forward to baby # 2, Erin and the Mommi team are still helping women discover the ways protein supports a women at all phases of pregnancy. Here are Mommi's 4 favorite nutrient-rich and delicious recipes for growing a healthy belly.

Banana Cream Pie Protein Smoothie – comfort in a glass

Ingredients

• 2 Tbsp. Mommi 3-in-1 chocolate
• 1 frozen banana
• 1/2 cup almond milk
• 3/4 cup vanilla or banana greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp. vanilla extract
• Pinch of nutmeg
• 6-7 ice cubes
• 2 graham cracker (“sheets”/rectangles”), crushed
• Whipped topping (optional)

Directions

1. Blend all ingredients except half of graham crackers and whipped topping.
2. Pour into glasses and top with whipped topping and crushed graham crackers.

Orange Creamsicle Protein Smoothie

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp. vanilla Mommi 3-in-1 protein
• 1/4 cup almond milk
• 1/3 cup greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)
• 1/3 cup orange juice
• 1/2 medium orange
• 2 tsp. vanilla extract
• 4-5 ice cubes

Directions

1. Blend all ingredients except whipped topping.
2. Pour into glasses and top with whipped topping if desired.

Peanut Butter & Protein Cups

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp. Mommi 3-in-1* vanilla protein
• 1/4 cup PB2
• 1/4 cup almond milk
• 3 tbsp peanut butter
• 3/4 cup bittersweet chocolate chips

Directions:

1. Melt chocolate chips over low heat and add a small layer of melted chocolate into 8 silicone baking cups. Place in freezer until hardened, about 15 minutes.
2. In a bowl, combine Mommi 3-in-1 vanilla protein, PB2, and almond milk smooth.
3. Add peanut butter to mixture & mix until smooth.
4. To each baking cup, add a spoonful of the peanut butter mixture and press lightly into the cup, leaving some space on the sides for the chocolate to fill in.
5. Top the peanut butter mixture with more melted chocolate and return cups to the freezer until hardened, about 30 minutes.

Fruity Kale Super Food Smoothie

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp. Mommi 3-in-1 Vanilla
• 2 tbsp. Super Green Food
• 1/4 cup ice
• 1/2 banana
• 3 strawberries
• 3-5 leaves of kale (Remove Main Stem)
• 10 oz. almond milk

Directions

1. Blend Until Smooth And Enjoy.

Do you love Halloween but cringe at the thought of your kids (or your growing baby-to-be) scarfing down a bunch of corn syrup, refined sugar, and other toxic junk? With a little advance planning and these easy tricks, you can treat your family to a happy, healthy holiday--without the sugar crash!

Avoid the Binge. And the blood sugar crash! If your kids come home with a pillowcase full of candy, let them choose a couple of their favorite pieces and have them trade in the rest for a prearranged treat of their choice, such as a family dinner to a restaurant of their choice, a new toy, extra TV time, and more. Don't stash the candy away for later either. Make sure you throw them out so someone--include yourself--doesn't find them later!

Bust Out the Baking Supplies. Bake handpicked pumpkin muffins with organic cream cheese frosting, homemade caramel apples (roll in shredded coconut for a sweet and healthy crunch), or any other healthy, seasonal treat. Getting into the Halloween spirit doesn't mean you have to stuff yourself with garbage. It can be a fun time to fill your kitchen with delicious smells and trick your taste buds with something indulgent (but good for you, too)!

Explore Community Events. Many communities hold candy-free costume parades and parties for families during the days surrounding Halloween. Keep your eye out for haunted houses and pumpkin patches, if you and your kid think you can handle it. Consider celebrating together this way and then hanging at home handing out (non-candy) treats instead of making the rounds on Halloween night.

Look for the Teal Pumpkins. The Teal Pumpkin Project was started as a way for kids with allergies to identify houses offering non-food treats on Halloween. Even if your kid's allergy-free, support this project at your own home by handing out kazoos, stickers, and temporary tattoos instead of Snickers bars, and steer toward homes giving away similarly non-sugary treats.

Give In To Your Sweet Tooth--or Pregnancy Cravings–Without Compromise. Must have chocolate? No problem. Brands like The Organic Candy Factory produce 100% organic candies, including gummies and chocolates. This company's candies are also gelatin-free, gluten-free, nut-free and tree-nut free. Check your local health food store for other healthy Halloween candy choices, too.
Creating new, healthier traditions starting this Halloween can be fun and rewarding. Try out these tips to have a happier, safer holiday and of course, have fun with it!

Dress in autumn uniform--chic black leggings, crisp white button-down shirt, and oversized chunky knit sweater--pack up your family, and get outta town! Here are five fall U.S. destinations that will offer the right balance of excitement and (much needed) R&R for you and your partner, while being accommodating for little one.

1. Fall is harvest time in the Finger Lakes in Upstate New York, named for the eleven linear lakes that span the 4,692 square-mile region, so when you’re not visiting a U-pick farm to fill a bushel with NY apples or sip the freshly made cider, visit one of dozens of gorgeous gorges dotted across the country landscape. Known for over 200 wineries, the Finger Lakes region has three renowned wine trails—Cayuga, Keuka, and Seneca—that are easy to travel along and offer a beautiful view of the changing leaves. Head south to nearby Corning to tour the Corning Museum of Glass, where you can get your hands dirty—protect them first with Nine Naturals’ Repairing Body Balm—and work alongside experienced glassworkers to create your own glass masterpiece.

1. Portland, Oregon—also known as the “City of Roses”—is an ideal vacay locale for foodies and festival fans, alike. This gem of a city, located in the Pacific Northwest, experiences moderate fall temperatures in the mid-60s (dropping down to the 50s in late fall), and features a vibrant culinary scene, complete with acclaimed restaurants and over 600 food carts. From September through November, festies (festival fanatics) can attend Feast Portland, The Reel Music Film Festival, The West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta, Wine Country Thanksgiving, and many more. Before returning to the “real world,” take advantage of the city’s zero sales tax policy and shop the Portland Saturday Market, which is the largest arts-and-crafts fair in the U.S.

1. San Francisco, California one of the most popular tourist destinations in the U.S., is a beautiful city set along the San Francisco Bay that is ideal to visit during the fall, when the sky is sunny and the earth has dried out from the rainy summer. Chock full of attractions to see and things to do, unearth your inner child by devouring a hot fudge sundae at Ghirardelli Square, and then driving down the famously steep and winding Lombard Street. Treat your little one to a visual smorgasbord while riding in a cable car or walking along the streets of brightly colored Chinatown—the largest one outside of Asia. Skip the tour of Alcatraz and opt for a free show at Pier 39 put on by sea lions just returning from southern California islands and Mexico, where they breed during the summer months.

1. Dance your way around Nashville, Tennessee during the mild fall months, when temperatures range from 50- to 75-degrees, and music is playing 24/7. Immerse yourself in the culture by sauntering your boot-draped feet through the Country Music Hall of Fame, The Grand Ole Opry, and the Johnny Cash Museum before digging into a plate of Nashville hot chicken. Explore Music City’s past at Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage: Home of the People’s President and the Tennessee State Museum—located within the Tennessee State Capitol Building. Let your little one run free—after a liberal application of Nine Naturals’ Natural Sunscreen SPF 32—at Cheekwood Botanical Garden, the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere, or one of many area metro parks before jumping into the car for your road-trip home.

1. Bring your appetite when visiting Waterbury, Vermont, because this nearly 50 square-mile town is home to the Ben & Jerry’s factory, Cabot Cheese Annex Store, Cold Hollow Cider Mill, Smugglers’ Notch Distillery, and other delectable food brands. Visit one (or all) of these locales and be treated to a FREE guided tour of the production process, as well as a sample or two of the foods that made these brands Vermont famous. Follow your nose to neighboring Burlington, Vermont where you’ll find the Lake Champlain Chocolates factory, in addition to a cuddly paradise for your little one at the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory, where children ages 12 and under tour for free. Work off all those samples on the 5.3-mile long Stowe Recreation path in Stowe, Vermont, which is enjoyed by walkers, runners, and cyclists, alike. Hop on the Champlain Valley Flyer train and enjoy a scenic ride through Champlain Valley on your way back to Waterbury.

Happy travels!

The co-founder of Love Grace Organics gives us a simple pregnancy smoothie recipe for optimal health.

Article & Photo courtesy of Well Rounded NY

Mothers-to-be are some of the most important people on the planet. Creating the next generation is a big job, so it’s important to make sure nutrition is top quality, organic, and nutrient-dense.

Here’s a great multifunctional smoothie recipe for pregnant women that’s simple to make. It delivers a bunch of important nutrients such as folic acid (via berries and leafy greens), omega 3’s (via flax and walnut), clean protein and minerals (via spirulina). Plenty of other vitamins abound, and it tastes great too!

Drink to your health!

1 Banana
1 whole orange, peeled and seeds removed.
2 leaves of kale, stem removed
1 half cup wild blueberries
1 tsp Flax seeds
1 Small handful of walnuts
1 tsp Spirulina
1 cup spring water

This article is by Jake Mabanta, co-founder of Love Grace Foods, courtesy of Well Rounded NY. Conceived with love by former magazine editors Jessica Pallay and Kaity Velez, Well Rounded NY aims to be the singular pregnancy resource for city-savvy moms-to-be. Through reviews, profiles, expert Q&As, local guides and more, Well Rounded curates the New York City pregnancy and helps its readers come to terms – and term! – with pregnancy in the city.

When it comes to product choices, sudsing up is serious business. Your skin is a wonderful and protective barrier for your body, keeping germs and other harmful substances out. Unfortunately, toxic chemicals hidden in soaps and shampoos can be easily absorbed by the skin and, from there, make their way into your bloodstream. Knowing which ingredients to avoid in the shower will help keep you healthy and clean, inside and out. Here are our top offenders:

Avoid: Sulfates

Why: Most commonly appearing as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate, these synthetic detergents show up in everything from foaming soaps and shampoos to toothpaste and make-up. Sulfates are skin membrane irritants; they dry out impair the natural protective qualities of skin and hair. They also commonly combine with other ingredients to produce carcinogenic and nervous-system-disrupting by-products. Luckily for us, though, these little nasties are totally unnecessary when it comes to getting clean.

Avoid: Parabens

Why: Used in everything from all shower products, cosmetics, shaving creams to deodorants, parabens are man-made preservatives used in products to prevent the growth of molds, bacteria and yeasts. They mimic estrogens in the body and have been linked with breast and skin cancers.

Avoid: Phthalates

Why: These chemicals are found in hundreds of products, including plastics, cosmetics and personal care products. They’ve been linked with cancer and reproductive problems, and may be especially dangerous to babies and young children, whose are more sensitive to chemicals.

Avoid: Fragrance

Why: On an ingredient list, “fragrance” most often means some combination of synthetic, carcinogenic, hormone-disrupting chemicals you definitely do not want in your system. Because they aren’t individually listed on labels, they fly under the radar, but are nonetheless present in almost all shampoos, deodorants, skin creams, and other personal care products.

What’s a Mom to Do? We know you love your shower time. Lucky for you, all Nine Naturals’ products -- from luxurious shampoos to body butters to deodorants and more -- are free of the above-listed toxins and pregnancy-safe!

RELATED POST

• 5 Beauty Ingredients To Avoid During Pregnancy
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• Speed Up Your Morning Beauty Routine

5 sustainable fashion brands that are perfect for your growing bump.

Article & Photos courtesy of Well Rounded NY

Conscious consumerism has become a fashion industry mainstay, and a practice that most of us don’t want to stop just because we have a new bump in the picture. Earth Week is an important time to pause, reflect and take note of our carbon footprint, and our socially responsible contributions in everyday environmental practices. Especially since as mamas and mamas-to-be, we want this world to last a long, long time for our babies.

While not every brand is up to speed yet, many are leading the way with the rest hopefully to follow suit. By paying close attention to the companies we purchase from, we can all make a difference–and look great while doing so. Here are a few sustainable bump-friendly brands who are ahead of the curve in keeping the future bright for our little ones.

1. REFORMATION.When it comes to sustainable fashion practices combined with current, hip and trend right apparel, there is no one that’s doing it better then Reformation. Located in downtown Los Angeles, the company was created in 2009 by Yael Aflalo whose intentions were to provide a “sustainable way to be fashionable.” Between sourcing sustainable and vintage fabrics, maintaining eco-friendly and sustainable practices throughout the supply chain, the heat-reflecting roof in the factory which uses renewable energy, to the recycled hangers in stores and 100% in all packaging, Reformation is leading the way in conscious consumerism. While Reformation is not a maternity brand, there are pieces I would scoop up in a heartbeat during my prenatal or postpartum days including the peony dress and the serengeti jumpsuit (sans belt).

2. ALTERNATIVE APPAREL. Alternative Apparel produces the type of clothing you want to wear everyday, all day. It’s that comfortable. What makes the company even that much more attractive is their belief in social change and responsible business practices which always take the environmental impact into consideration. More than half of the Alternative Apparel’s collection is sourced using sustainable fabrics, the company uses non-toxic as well as natural dyes on their products (a mega bonus for new mamas and mamas-to-be) and they are using less water and no chemicals in their finishings. Since comfort is key during and after a pregnancy, Alternative Apparel is amazing for pre and post-natal days. My current faves from the brand include the linen asymmetrical midi dress and the racerback midi dress.

3. LEMLEM. In 2007, supermodel/actress and World Health Organization’s Goodwill Ambassador for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health, Liya Kebede founded Lemlem, as a way to inspire economic independence through the preservation of the art of weaving in her native country of Ethiopia. Through this brand, women have opportunities for not only employment with fair trade wages, but are given the ability to sustain traditions in their local communities while simultaneously providing for their families. All of Lemlem’s products are handmade from natural cottons and the collection includes apparel for both women and children. I’ve been a longtime lover of the brand, and my current favorites include the lelaga patio dress, and the amash maxi poncho, both perfect with a baby bump for the summer days which lie ahead.

4. AMOUR VERT. The literal translation of Amour Vert in French means “Green Love”, but the company believes it’s so much more including, “american manufacturing, non-toxic dyes, sustainable fibers, innovative fabrics, a zero waste design philosophy, and above all enduring style.” Additionally, the company pledges that with every purchase of an Amour Vert t-shirt, they will plant a tree in North America. By the end of 2015, the company will have planted 100,000 trees with their trusted partner, American Forests. The company is deeply committed to making sustainable fashion part of the industry standard and the styling is just as epic as the environmentally conscious practices they endure. I just newly discovered this brand, and have currently got my eyes on the pregnancy friendly zea maxi and franny dress.

5. TRIBE ALIVE. Tribe Alive was built on the philosophy that fashion should be purposeful and serve a higher function. Carly Burson, the company’s founder believes in responsible consumerism, and socially responsible practices that work towards making this earth a better place. Through artisan partnerships in Honduras, Ethiopia, Guatemala and soon to be India, Tribe Alive “employs impoverished indigenous women at fair trade wages and gives them access to safe jobs, sustainable income and a chance to determine their own future.” All of the merchandise in their collection, which includes accessories, jewelry and home goods, is made by hand, with heart and determination. Tribe Alive stands on the platform that there is “nothing more stylish than giving back.” My favorites from the current Spring 2015 assortment are the frazada pillows and throws(think nursery!) and the freeze ikat weekender, which would be a fantastic all purpose bag to pack for the bambinos during a summer weekend trip!

This article is by Jenny Greenstein, courtesy of Well Rounded NY. Conceived with love by former magazine editors Jessica Pallay and Kaity Velez, Well Rounded NY aims to be the singular pregnancy resource for city-savvy moms-to-be. Through reviews, profiles, expert Q&As, local guides and more, Well Rounded curates the New York City pregnancy and helps its readers come to terms – and term! – with pregnancy in the city.

Before motherhood, we imagine your morning routine was a singular-sensational experience. And by that we mean all you had to do was worry about you. But now with the introduction of your little bundle of joy, your focus has rightfully shifted…. to a million different places. But that doesn’t mean you have to leave the house looking like you haven’t showered for days. Check out our tips for keeping your beauty routine short and sweet so you can get out the door remembering everything and making it look effortless.

The Night Before

1. Shower, Blow Dry, Moisturize: Using your favorite Nine Naturals Soothing Body Wash & Nourishing Shampoo & Conditioner, shower, wash and blow-dry your hair the night before. It will take a huge chunk of time out of your morning ritual and if your not big on blow drying, you can let your hair air dry and worry about the final touches in the a.m.
2. Choose Outfits for All: Lay out your clothes and your little one’s clothes. Standing in your closet looking into the hangers like a lost puppy won’t do anyone any good when it’s go-time.
3. Pack Lunches: We cannot stress this enough, the more you can do in advance the better. Have your food and your baby’s bottles packed and ready in the fridge. You’ll save yourself about twenty minutes, not to mention the chaos of trying to figure out what to eat.
4. Bagged ‘N Ready: Put together work, diaper and gym bags and place them by the door. And don’t forget an extra outfit, or two, for your bundle of joy. Now all there’s left to do is hit the road.
5. Polish Nails: Manicures don’t last three days with all the hand-washing moms do. But a quick buffing and massage of some vitamin E oil keep hang nails at bay and nails looking clean. If you still have the energy, feel free to go for the gusto and add a layer of clear, or if you’re feeling really fearless, try this season’s hot color – Trust Fund Beauty’s Rich Bitch.

The Morning Of

1. Clarisonic Cleanse: The foundation for all-things-beauty starts with the skin. There are plenty of other paces to save on time, but don’t skimp on cleansing. The Clarisonic is automatically programmed to sonically cleanse your skin for a minute.
2. Wash away! Mist Away: Select an all natural toner that you can mist. It’s super fast, refreshing and wakes you up in a spa-like way. And if you’re not a toner gal, grab a bottle of Evian spray mist. It’s an added layer of hydration any mom’s skin can use.
3. Apply SPF or a tinted moisturizer: Always use sunscreen on your face (and all over!) to protect your skin. For a 2 for 1, use an all natural tinted sunscreen (you can even make your own easily!) to even skin tones quickly and effectively. No need for brushes, sponges or fancy makeup equipment. Your fingers will get the job done perfectly.
4. Conceal those Sleepless Nights: Dot concealer under eyes and blend with fingers gently. By using your hands you keep your face looking light and natural while leaving time to spare. Tip: Dot you’re your eye lids as well and blend out with your fingers for a brighter and more natural alternative to eye shadow.
5. Blush or Bronze: Give the apples of your cheeks a quick dusting of bronzer or blush. This will help keep everything on your face looking bright-eyed and cheery.
6. Mascara: A quick layer of Honeybee Gardens Truly Natural mascara does wonders to open the eyes and define lashes.
7. Lipstick: With a natural and lightly made-up face, you could stand to choose a brighter lipstick or gloss to pull the whole look together. And with this season’s bright pinks, oranges and reds there’s plenty to choose from. Remember to keeps those lips luscious and hydrated with Nine Naturals Simply Natural Lip Balm.

At Nine Naturals, we believe that not only is it important to use sunscreen year round, but it's also important to make sure that you are using the right sunscreen that's all natural and safe for you and your family. We couldn't be more excited to have our Natural Sunscreen SPF 32 receive the highest safety rating by the Environmental Working Group's Sunscreen Guide! Check out Nine Naturals on EWG's website and read more about how to stay safe in the sun.

From the moment of your baby’s birth, your parental duty is to love, nurture, teach and protect your child as they navigate this great big world. During your child’s formative years, you must make informed decisions regarding his or her health and safety, including the foods they eat, the places they visit, the toys they play with, and more.

Were you aware that, according to PBS’ weekly news magazine NOW, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (the governmental office responsible for regulating children’s toy) can’t legally test a children’s product to determine its safety before sale? Because of this, the toys that are deemed un-safe, either as a result of perceived harm or reported injury, are removed from the shelves following either a voluntary recall from the manufacturer, or a government mandated recall (which is consistent protocol in cases where a fatality was reported).

The experts at the Ecology Center who work tirelessly to “educate consumers to help keep their families healthy and safe,” say that parents must limit their child’s exposure to potentially harmful chemicals, many of which can be found in children’s toys and accessories, including:

1. Phthalates
2. PVC
3. Tin
4. Lead
5. Cadmium
6. Chlorine
7. Arsenic
8. Bromine
9. Mercury
10. BPA

The same experts state that small amounts of the above chemicals introduced into a child’s system, whether by placing a toy in the mouth or simple skin exposure, can negatively impact a growing child’s ability to reach his or her full potential, as they are more vulnerable to the effects of toxic chemicals. Furthermore, animal studies—and a small number of human studies—have linked these chemicals to long-term health impacts, such as birth defects, impaired learning, cancer, and more.

Before walking the aisles of your local toy store or scanning the web in search of a new toy for your child to enjoy, learn about approved baby gear brands from Healthy Child, Healthy World — a non-profit that empowers parents, influences policy and promotes solutions. The following 10 manufacturers take pride in crafting non-toxic toys made from natural materials, including solid wood (either unfinished or finished with a non-toxic coating), organic cotton, wool, and hemp. The majority of them conduct independent testing before introducing a new item to consumers.

1. Blabla
2. Green Toys
3. Haba
4. Brio
5. Apple Park
6. Palumba
7. Little Tikes
8. International Playthings
9. Plan Toys
10. Tiny Love

Knowledge is power, so we encourage you to conduct your own informal research by asking fellow parents for their product suggestions, as well as keep abreast of any news regarding children’s products, especially toys and playthings.