Becoming a parent is one of the most joyous and exciting times. As we become increasingly aware of the impact we’re having on the environment, it’s good to start the journey understanding sustainable practices in childcare. Read on to find out easy ways to care for your new baby in an environmentally friendly way including investing in used baby items and tips for what to do with old baby clothes they grow out of.
Three areas you can utilise used baby items
Parents who are already practicing sustainable family living are likely to recycle baby items they no longer use, or possibly even sell them. Three areas where you can invest in used baby items to help reduce wastage are:
- Baby clothes. Babies outgrow their clothes so quickly, and it can be a very expensive task continuously replacing them with the next size. Instead, purchase second-hand from other parents or charity shops, which both saves money and reduces waste.
- Baby toys. Babies develop and change rapidly in the first few years, and before you know it, they’ve outgrown not only their clothes but also their toys. Buying second-hand toys is a great way to reduce waste.
- Reusable nappies. Whilst making the swap to reusable nappies is a great, eco-friendly option, it can be an expensive one. Instead of buying them brand new, there is a large market of perfectly usable second-hand options available.
Tips to recycle baby bottles
If you find yourself asking, “can you recycle baby bottles?” the great thing to know is that mostly, you can. Here are our top tips for what to do with old baby bottles and clothes:
- Many baby bottles can be reused. With proper sterilisation baby bottles can be used again and again. If your baby bottles are still in good condition without cracks or damage, but you no longer require them, donate them to charity or pass them on to another new parent.
- Recycle old baby bottles. Many baby bottles are now made from recyclable materials, which means instead of throwing them away, you can pop them into the recycling for collection. Always double check the packaging or bottle itself, as it will sport the recycling symbol if it can be recycled.
Tips for what to do with old baby clothes
If you’re wondering what to do with used baby items such as clothing, there are some easy ways to reduce the waste they could cause.
- Box them up and keep them. A great way to save money is to keep the clothes that your baby grows out of for their siblings if you are planning to have more children in the future.
- Donate them. Many charity shops will be happy to take clothes, shoes and baby accessories which they can sell. Alternatively, many women’s shelters and local food bank affiliates will take items to give to those most in need in your area.
- Recycle them. For any clothes that are too soiled or damaged to keep or donate, make sure that instead of binning them and having them end up in landfill, you recycle them. Most local recycling plants will have a drop-off point for old clothes, shoes and other items.
Now you have an easy guide to sustainability in childcare, you can be sure to enjoy your new baby, without worrying about unnecessary waste.