Motherhood doesn't come with guarantees, and that includes what those tiny fingers and toes are touching every day. In a world full of “clean,” “pure” and “gentle” labels, it’s hard to know what’s truly safe for your baby’s delicate skin (and your peace of mind).
At NuAngel, we believe that what’s not in your products matters just as much as what’s in them. You don’t have to be perfect, but you do deserve better. So, let’s walk through the key chemicals and materials to sidestep and why choosing thoughtful alternatives can make this beautiful, messy first year feel a little safer.
1. Skip the Hidden Chemicals
Some shortcuts aren’t worth taking especially when it comes to what touches your baby’s skin.
Watch out for:
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Parabens – think of these as the preservatives in skincare and baby lotions that help them last longer, but they can act like hormones in your baby’s body. Not something you want near your baby’s skin every day.
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Phthalates – these usually hide in anything with fragrance (like baby wipes, shampoo, body wash or even plastic toys). They’ve been linked to hormone problems and can affect how your baby grows and develops.
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Synthetic fragrances, dyes and formaldehyde-releasing agents – these are the sneaky ingredients that show up in labels as just “fragrance” or “color.” They might make products smell nice or look cute, but they can irritate sensitive skin and even release chemicals linked to health concerns.
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Flame retardants, PFAS and BPA – these show up in things like crib mattresses, car seats and even some clothes or diapers. They’re supposed to be “protective,” but they’ve been linked to hormone disruption and long-term health risks. In short, it’s safer without them.
2. Be Careful with Materials
What’s made of matters nearly as much as what’s inside:
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Avoid synthetic fabrics like polyester, rayon, nylon – they can trap heat, irritate sensitive skin and often hold chemical finishes.
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Say no to treated finishes - flame-resistant, water/stain-resistant, wrinkle-free or antimicrobial coatings often contain PFAS, formaldehyde, or worse.
3. Know What’s Safe and Smart
Fortunately, safer, softer choices can be simple:
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Stick with 100% unbleached, undyed cotton like our nursing pads, burp cloths and washcloths for breathable, hypoallergenic comfort.
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Look for clear labels or certifications like GOTS, GREENGUARD Gold or EWG Verified, which signal higher safety standards.
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Natural fibers, glass, stainless steel or silicone are smart choices for clothing, feeding gear and bedding.
4. Know the Truth Behind “Clean” Labels
Not every “natural” or “pure” product lives up to its claims. In fact, many contain only 1% actual natural ingredients and the rest could be toxic fillers.
Pro tip: read the ingredient list. If it’s long, chemical-heavy or full of vague words like “parfum,” better to just skip it.
You’re Showing Up, and That’s Everything
You might be overwhelmed. You might second-guess every purchase. But you’re here learning, questioning and putting your baby’s well-being first. That counts.
At NuAngel, we craft essentials with simple ingredients and real-life design, so you don’t have to overthink it. You’re already doing plenty. Let your worries about toxins be one less thing you carry.
You don’t have to be perfect to make better choices, and every little effort matters.