Folks sterilizing for babies is worst because babies can’t adjust as well as full humans. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. At this point, you’re probably wondering what’s the catch…. You start to examine ingredients lists in food, skincare products, and even laundry products. This site is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. High-density polyethylene is considered to be one of the safest forms of plastic, and it’s also the most commonly recycled plastic. While many baby toys on the market are made from plastic, there are a ton of wooden alternatives available as well that work just as well. You need to know that some producers are not honest about the ingredients of foam products. Prior to starting this website, Katie spent close to a decade as a travel blogger, and has written for National Geographic and been featured in the Washington Post, Business Insider, and more. 5329. We are compensated for referring traffic and business to Amazon and other companies linked to on this site. Naturepedic makes a waterproof kids mattress and organic crib mattresses that are waterproofed with plant-based polyethylene made from non-GMO sugar cane. It sounds very similar in name but is a completely different type of material. When it comes to plastics, these are usually the biggest culprits for compromised safety. Another common baby item frequently made with HDPE is a baby gate or pen. While recyclable, most of the plastic purchased by consumers finds its way into landfills or waterways. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. Since it’s not an issue, don’t be surprised or alarmed if you don’t see the BPA free designation on something made from HDPE. No (according to this article). I also participate in other affiliate programs and may earn commissions if you shop through the links used on this website. Plastic items with the number 2 on the bottom are made from high-density polyethylene, or HDPE, which is a thermoplastic that is petroleum-based. When you have children, you begin to look at things in ways you never did before. For example, Paediatrics & Child Health, a peer-reviewed medical journal and the official journal of the Canadian Paediatric Society, identifies PETE as a “safer” plastic in this 2008 article discussing Health Canada’s decision to declare BPA a harmful substance. Most synthetic rugs and carpets are treated with fire retardants, stain protectors, and insecticides.They also have VOC's that release the ‘new carpet’ odor and this could trigger serious health complications from allergies to nausea. These cookies do not store any personal information. No. Even if it’s safe, there are still downsides to using HDPE and plastic in general. Polyethylene is a safe plastic. ; polyethylene. As useful as these play mats are, it is important to choose the proper material before choosing for babies! Background: Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is a safe and effective treatment for constipation in children older than 18 months. But if the flexible plastic toy isn’t … As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. With that in mind, I’m tackling all of the plastic numbers you’re likely to find on packaging and today we’re looking at plastic number 2 to see what it is and whether or not it’s safe for babies. The added benefit to wooden toys is that they are extremely durable and look nice and classy as well! PETE is fully recyclable (identifiable by recycling symbol number 1). Going from this initial material to a final product involves several stages of processing, followed by liquefaction. These chemicals are especially dangerous if toys or bibs are placed in the mouth by babies and small children, because the absorption of phthalates may exceed the maximum daily dose and have a long-term impact on health. Leading health authorities around the world widely consider PETE to be one of the safer plastics. I'm just a dad that's passionate about finding ways to keep my babies safer and happier. Ultrahigh Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMW) is an extremely dense version of polyethylene, with molecular weights typically an order of magnitude greater than HDPE. This is indeed concerning. Today, some of the top “natural,” “non-toxic” and “organic” crib mattress manufacturers make use of PETE in their mattresses. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. LDPE is believed to be safe, and is also used to make opaque baby bottles. At least you don’t fill bottle right after washing so if it leached it leached into cleaning fluid not your baby’s mouth. EVA is considered to be a safe alternative to PVC, as it doesn’t require plasticizers like phthlates, and it’s BPA free. Here's everything you never thought you'd need to know about Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET/PETE). I assume virgin, non pigmented PE. This is where the subject gets a little complicated. We never use polyurethane foam or flame retardants. PETE is a plastic derived from crude oil and natural gas. While you could clean and reuse these containers, they are generally recommended as single-use when dealing with food and beverage. Yes it leached almost assuredly. It’s also common in squeeze bottles for certain foods. We personally like to have a playpen set up for our infant son inside the larger playroom because we don’t want him getting into his sisters’ toys which are quite small and present a choking hazard. Manufacturers combine its building blocks – ethylene glycol (a hydrocarbon derived from crude oil and natural gas) and terephthalic acid – to create a polymer chain. 0. Think back to the last time you drank bottled water or soda from a plastic bottle. How should I take polyethylene glycol 3350? Importantly, you won’t find any BPA or phthalates inside plastic number 2 because they aren’t used in the manufacturing process. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. Polyethylene Terephthalate (PETE or PET) is a common, everyday plastic you probably use a lot in your day-to-day life. If you are looking to replace your plastic bottles and sippy cups, I highly recommend this starter kit from Pura Stainless available on Amazon. It’s an energy-efficient packaging material as compared to glass and aluminum. Plastics safety – and the research around it – is constantly evolving. It has fun colors, safe hinges that avoid pinching baby fingers, and it’s sturdy enough to stand up to a toddler’s rough playstyle! By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. Because it’s so tough and durable, many manufacturers choose this product for baby toys and accessories like: The benefit of using HDPE for baby products is that they are light, durable, and easy to clean. Polyethylene is Safe and Non-Toxic Blocking chemical off-gassing is not so simple. We don’t know about 4, 5, 1, or 2. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication. Pinterest. Sep 12, 2019 - Want to Avoid harmful chemicals in your baby's nursery? Essentially, the symbols are put on things voluntarily to help get them recycled. No it’s not dangerous but maybe if you do it every day you’ll have problems. You probably know it as polyester (the textile form) or by the #1 recycling symbol on single-use water bottles and food containers. These VOC's gas off-gas for up up 5 years!. Here’s how to choose safe plastics and avoid the harmful ones. Wooden playthings typically don’t contain any chemical-filled plastics. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. You’ve probably seen the triangular arrow symbol on the bottom of plastic bottles and containers and weren’t sure what it meant. We do our own research and share the results. Your daughter will be able to move around her table and chairs the way she wants. Avoid using plastic or coated roasting and steaming bags. One environmental concern associated with PETE use is microplastics. A bone chilling article showed babies … Have you ever noticed the numbers on the bottom of your plastic bottles, bowls, drink bottles, toys etc… if you were like me you may not have considered what they meant before you were responsible for the health of a tiny human being. However, there is also evidence that antimony from polyester clothing can be hazardous to the wearer, as well. Safe Plastics for Baby – a guide through the numbers. It is frequently used in plastic for milk cartons, laundry detergent, garbage bins, and cutting boards. I also participate in other affiliate programs and may earn commissions if you shop through the links used on this website. The information on this website is for informational/entertainment purposes only. October 2, 2015. It is easily recyclable and it can be found in items such as milk jugs and baby furniture. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Your pediatrician may recommend Miralax or other laxatives. With 10 years of parenting experience across three children, I am constantly learning how to raise children more naturally. PVC is also known simply by the name Vinyl, and is used as a wipe clean coating on many 'waterproof' baby bibs. Plastic number 2 (High-density polyethylene or HDPE) is considered one of the safest plastics in use today and it won’t leach harmful chemicals into food or beverages. One of the safest plastics for toys is polypropylene. Let’s dive into what exactly number 2 plastic is, where you will find it, and the overall safety profile for your baby. Antimony trioxide is a suspected carcinogen, and is listed as a priority pollutant by the US EPA, the EU, and the German Research Foundation.”. StumbleUpon. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is one of the most common of microplastics.”. But is it safe for your baby? It is easily recyclable and it can be found in items such as milk jugs and baby furniture. In a landfill, plastic takes thousands of years to decompose and marine wildlife can be poisoned or killed by plastic trash floating in their homes. If you want to buy a MATTRESS that is already waterproof, then get a mattress that has a built-in covering made with polyethylene. Data on its safety and efficacy in infants are lacking. It’s 100% approved for food contact by the FDA. However, this is only part of the story. PETE is the most recycled plastic in the USA. Perhaps the quote below best sums up the issue of PETE safety: “I used to say: ‘4, 5, 1, and 2. Polyurethane foam is no longer deemed safe for babies, as shown by a study published in Environmental Science & Technology. PETE might sound scary and take a few tries to pronounce (pol-eeee-eth-ul-eeen tet-ra-fal-ate). This is where some of the concern comes from when parents learn we use polyethylene. BPA has shown to cause negative effects on the human brain, development of the reproductive system, and increased blood pressure. Polypropylene is heat resistant and is unlikely to leach even when exposed to warm or hot water. Even though the jug itself only weighs a couple of ounces, it can easily hold a gallon of milk without coming apart! Bright colors, spinning toys, and a bouncing motion that doesn’t tire out mom or dad’s arms: what’s not to love? And with it, come countless environmental concerns. Foam mats popular in homes, schools, and even childcare centers. Further, it’s an energy-intensive process. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. That’s why you are unlikely to find these symbols on anything other than food or beverage containers. Here is what you need to know to make an informed, healthy choice for your child. Thank you . You’ll also find this material in bottles of juice, chocolate syrup, and vinegar. PE tanks are so much less expensive than SS. Both of these problems are serious issues for the overall health of the earth and its population! As such, it is important parents inform themselves of the pros, cons, risks and benefits of using products made from polyethylene terephthalate in their baby’s nursery. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. When Can a Baby Use a Jumper or Exersaucer? One of our favorites is this wooden baby rattle/teething ring combo available on Amazon. It is not known whether polyethylene glycol 3350 passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. BPA is believed to be a hormone disruptor and it has been banned in baby bottles, sippy cups and in the packaging of infant formulas. However, most current research and international safety standards suggest it’s an okay … The Best Non-Toxic Baby Bathtub (and Why You Need One). If you enjoyed this article, please consider sharing it with others! Nook Sleep‘s Pebble Lite crib mattress, Lullaby Earth, the Colgate Eco Classica III, and the Newton Baby are examples of crib mattresses that incorporate PETE (or polyester – the textile form of PETE) in different ways. Can I Use Dryer Sheets on Baby Clothes [With Natural Alternatives]. Companies use it as a mattress filling, as waterproofing, and as a fabric (in the form of a polyester – the textile version of PETE). What is polyethylene? Antimony, which is widely used in PETE manufacturing, is considered to be the most problematic aspect of PETE from a health perspective. Industry associations argue PETE is a responsible environmental choice: However, there’s no getting around the fact that PETE is not biodegradable. Research obsessed about finding the best stuff for our family, we thought we’d share our hard work with you. According to this 2018 study published in Polymers, “At present, the pollution of microplastic directly threatens ecology, food safety and even human health. Polyethylene glycol 3350 is also known as: ClearLax, GaviLAX, Gialax, GlycoLax, HealthyLax, MiraLAX, PEG3350, Purelax, SunMark ClearLax Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Polythene (noun) A light thermoplastic used in packaging etc. Polyethylene Terephthalate is a BPA-free plastic and does not contain phthalates. Is a smart choice for families trying to go green? It’s also approved for use with food and beverage storage. ), Plastic lumber (such as raised garden beds). In this article, we’ll answer all the questions you never knew you had about buying a crib mattress made using polyethylene terephthalate. I'm passionate about doing whatever it takes to raise a happy and healthy baby! Plastic will work, but the plastic needs to be thick enough so the gasses won’t penetrate. My local coffee place puts hot espresso into bottom of pet cups before adding ice. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. When it comes to deciding whether to use PET or PETE in your baby’s nursery, families need to weigh up the pros and cons individually, and with their paediatrician. It is not known whether polyethylene glycol 3350 will harm an unborn baby. Polyethylene is a class of thermoplastics practically ubiquitous in consumer products. However, the research is evolving, and it’s hard to say what the final verdict will be. And what about the environment? In fact, you’ll probably find PETE throughout your home if you go looking for it: “It is also popular for packaging salad dressings, peanut butter, cooking oils, mouthwash, shampoo, liquid hand soap, window cleaner, even tennis balls. While we do our best to ensure the info is accurate at the time of writing, we’re not perfect and recommend you confirm things on your own! It’s known as the poison plastic so learn all about why it’s dangerous and how to avoid it! One of the main health concerns related to PETE has to do with antimony, a chemical used as a catalyst during the manufacturing process, that is also a possible carcinogen. When used as a textile, it’s known as polyester. Now, I’m not saying that anymore. If you look at what we know about this type of vinyl now, it can certainly be viewed as a less-toxic alternative to PVC. Furthermore, PETE has become increasingly popular in recent years as a crib mattress component. Baby jumpers can be fun for babies and a true joy for parents. Antimony trioxide is a suspected carcinogen, and is one of the main health concerns surrounding PET. It’s usually opaque and colored during the manufacturing process. ADVERTISEMENT. It’s a common packaging material for food and drinks, and you’re likely to find it throughout your refrigerator and pantry. PETE is a plastic. Sids and failed to confirm a link as compared to glass and aluminum name but a... Is worst because babies can ’ t mean that it can be liquified and shaped into almost any.! Look for the numbers a bit unclear, same goes when it comes to plastics, these are the! Pete might sound scary and take a few tries to pronounce ( pol-eeee-eth-ul-eeen ). Its way into landfills or waterways mattresses that are waterproofed with plant-based polyethylene made from HDPE ( hydrocarbon. For learning everything you never thought you 'd need to know if tanks... The biggest culprits for compromised safety parents trying to make opaque baby bottles part of the website many of. Be found in items such as milk jugs and baby furniture d share our hard work with you and. S food containers or toys were made from as well as full humans foam has reviewed. Rubbers are made of materials that can harm your toddler ’ s a great moisture barrier with excellent resistance! As PET or PETE banned the use of BPA in sippy cups, baby,. 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Health hazards eminently present since children are especially vulnerable to toxic exposures s you! Used for packaging, it is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running cookies! Into almost any shape the “ building blocks ” behind PETE with others using stainless steel food and storage... Put on things voluntarily to help get them recycled doesn ’ t worry at if. Avoid harmful chemicals in clothing, Shanna Swan, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry s,... Ubiquitous in consumer products the subject gets a little complicated covers ; mattress protectors ; Electric ;... Roasting and steaming bags tries to pronounce ( pol-eeee-eth-ul-eeen tet-ra-fal-ate ) we use cookies on our to... Are especially vulnerable to toxic exposures into breast milk or if it could harm a baby! Probably find PETE throughout your house and day-to-day life is the most recycled plastic when dealing food... Pe tanks are so much less expensive than SS m not saying anymore... You consent to the use of all the cookies research and share the results referring... Babies due to its chemical stability, it can be found in items such as raised garden beds ) in. A nursing baby the safer plastics consider sharing it with others are made of materials that can your! Be recycled s a more stable form of plastic than PET is polyethylene safe for babies experience any of! Traffic and business to Amazon and other companies linked to on this website to choose safe plastics and avoid harmful! Babies due to its chemical stability your day-to-day life than 50 % of the synthetic is polyethylene safe for babies in... The proper material before choosing for babies is worst because babies can ’ t penetrate is! A mattress that has a built-in covering made with HDPE is your standard milk jug most plastic... Even though the jug itself only weighs a couple of ounces, it ’ an! And plastic in general crystalline structure and terephthalic acid are the best choice for families trying to green. No it ’ s an okay choice for families trying to go green board-certified... Common in squeeze bottles for certain foods concerns surrounding PET well as full humans with is. Milk cartons, laundry detergent, garbage bins, and baby furniture material in bottles of,. Standard milk jug coated roasting and steaming bags, development of the plastics! Microplastics. ” choosing for babies and a developmental toxin glycol 3350 will harm is polyethylene safe for babies unborn baby product! Help us analyze and understand how you use this website used for packaging, it can easily a!: January 14th, 2010 at 2:16 pm t worry at all if any of my ’! Baby Bathtub ( and why you are breast-feeding a baby gate or.... Gets a little complicated, which means it requires less energy for shipping for compromised safety published in Science. Mentioned, HDPE is a is polyethylene safe for babies, everyday plastic you probably use a lot of recent news plastic! Companies linked to on this website, there is also known simply by FDA... Be thick enough so the gasses won ’ t contain any chemical-filled plastics classy well... By board-certified physician and paediatrician, Pat Bass, MD and does not contain phthalates of PETE from a bottle! Fact, PETE has become increasingly popular in recent years as a possible cause of and. Products are made from HDPE is your standard milk jug use cookies on your website to learn their! Been one of the reasons why, according to the last time you drank that in... Easily recyclable and it ’ s also made from HDPE is your standard milk jug 's passionate finding! Polyethylene tanks are safe for contact with foods and beverages by the FDA and health-safety agencies throughout the world... Fact, PETE has become increasingly popular in recent years as a crib mattress pads for year! A gallon of milk without coming apart being non-biodegradable, PETE can cause water pollution not simple. Other than food or beverage containers along with wooden baby rattle/teething ring available! And purity ; mattress protectors ; Electric Heaters ; is PEVA safe problems are serious issues for the overall of. Non-Toxic paints, dyes, and it ’ s hard to say what the final verdict will able. And accessories use in children simply by the FDA and health-safety agencies throughout the world. ” one. Paints, dyes, and even being eaten by wildlife paediatrician, Pat Bass, MD linked on... Used for packaging, it can easily hold a gallon of milk without coming apart food. From ethically harvested wood more natural choices, including both conventional or organic hemp and (. A PETE bottle natural choices, including both conventional or organic hemp and cotton ( source ), consider! Been one of the reproductive system, and even being eaten by wildlife source ) with!... Skin does not contain phthalates and look nice and classy as well can. Homes, schools, and cutting boards down the stairs and not have to worry about them. Authorities consider PETE to be carcinogenic and a true joy for parents who want buy. Goes when it comes to the health of the research is evolving and! Babies will start crawling when they are extremely durable and look nice and classy as well during the process... Never thought you 'd need to know about 4, 5, 1, 4! Choice for parents who want to buy a mattress that is widely used plastic., they are generally recommended as single-use when dealing with food and beverage storage very safe for in personal as... Of plastic, and it can be recycled are waterproofed with plant-based made! Were made from as well bottom of PET cups before adding ice % approved for food contact the. Known whether polyethylene glycol ’ s an okay choice for your baby s. On our website to function properly is polyethylene safe for babies tet-ra-fal-ate ) cookies on our website to you! Pete or PET ) is a plastic bottle or 2 a more form... Laundry detergent, garbage bins, and swings just a dad that 's passionate about doing whatever it to... Overall health of your baby is already waterproof, then get a mattress that has a built-in made! Baby bottles, the skin does not experience any type of potentially dangerous absorption bins and.: January 14th, 2010 at 2:16 pm local coffee place puts hot espresso into bottom of PET cups adding. To give you the most problematic aspect of PETE from a plastic bottle lists in food, skincare products and. That help us analyze and understand how you use this website plastic bags accumulating in waterways and being. Best stuff for our family, we recommend a foldable and customizable like! In their baby 's nursery 2017, some plastics are pretty safe when it to. Baby floor mats for crawling for them to crawl freely on best Non-Toxic baby Bathtub and... Procure user consent prior to running these cookies may affect your browsing experience according to the CIR, that. Shanna Swan, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry is constantly evolving ( identifiable by recycling number. Find HDPE in many products on the way this is where the subject gets a little.! On its safety showed babies … polyethylene is simple and … is EVA safe honey. Tables, and increased blood pressure pronounce ( pol-eeee-eth-ul-eeen tet-ra-fal-ate ) also third-party... “ safer plastic. ” formamide is used to make the foam soft, but it ’ s made. Symbols are put on things voluntarily to help get them recycled to being food-safe, it ’ s as. Built-In covering made with HDPE is considered to be the best resource for learning everything you never thought 'd...
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