Sustainable Parenting Tips
Simple ways to tread lightly on the planet while still giving your children everything they need.
As a new parent, you’ve probably noticed just how much stuff babies need. And as they grow and their needs (and clothing size!) change, you’ll find yourself getting rid of the old stuff to make way for new. It’s almost like the littlest people on the planet are the largest super consumers.
Luckily, there are ways to raise your children to be happy, healthy, and well cared for, without leaving such a big environmental footprint. This is called sustainable parenting, or green parenting. There are plenty of eco-friendly tweaks you can make across all aspects of your household—from feeding and food prep to clothing and toys—that will reduce waste in your home and even help others do the same. Here are some ideas to get you into an eco-parent groove.
1. Switch to a Solid Baby Wash
Many natural, gentle baby washes come in plastic packaging—which is not perfect for the environment. Switch to baby-specific solid body washes with gentle ingredients to reduce plastic waste. Bonus: they save storage space too!
2. Join a “Buy Nothing” Group
Instead of storing outgrown items like car seats, swings, or cribs in your attic, post them in a local online “buy nothing” group. Let someone else get use out of them before safety standards change. While you’re there, see if you can pick up items your baby might need, like a sit-up seat or stroller.
3. Banish Baby Wipes
Many wet wipes contain plastic and even biodegradable options still contribute to landfill waste. Use soft cotton or bamboo cloths dampened with water, which can be machine washed as needed. Starting this from day one makes it easiest, but it’s a worthwhile change at any stage.
4. Start a Neighborhood Swap
When your baby outgrows 0–3 month clothing, another child may be moving on from 3–6 months. Organize a swap with other parents and everyone benefits from your baby’s rapid growth spurts. Exception: the parent with the oldest kid—consider chipping in for a gift certificate for new clothes!
5. Prioritize Earth-Friendly Packaging
Choose baby care brands that use recyclable, compostable, or sustainably sourced packaging materials such as aluminum, bamboo, or glass.
6. Buy Clothes With the Next Baby in Mind
Whether for your child or someone else’s, gender-neutral clothing has the potential to be passed along multiple times. Avoid overly specific designs like ruffles, bows, or phrases like “Dad’s favorite guy” to maximize reusability.
7. Repurpose Containers
Before recycling, think about how containers can be reused:
- Aussie Bubs formula tins: hold diaper pins, pacifiers, or small baby gear
- Baby food jars: use as mini vases or desk organizers
- Disposable diaper boxes: store outgrown books for sharing
Look for biodegradable tupperware or reusable food pouches to further reduce waste. Once you start repurposing emptied objects, you’ll be amazed at how many new uses you can imagine.
