Thirsties Detergent & Hand Dyed Textiles

I saw some questions about it because of this caution:

"DO NOT USE ON HAND-DYED TEXTILES. We recommend testing for color fastness prior to using on dyed textiles."

I have used it on a hand dyed cloth diaper and it didn't harm it a bit.

This doesn't mean that it couldn't and you should still use caution, but I just wanted to let those wondering know that I have used it on something hand dyed and it didn't cause any problems :)

Never clean your home with chemicals again!

I was browsing the internet one day and stumbled upon an article about a new product that cleans with water. At first, I thought it was steam (I was wrong.), but what made me take a good look was the size of the product. It looked like a standard cleaning bottle. It didn't look like some heavy appliance that I would have to lug around. I had to know more about it, how it worked, and why.
I started reading about the Ionator HOM. The first thing I wanted to know what how it worked. It sounded too good to be true that plain old tap water, without a lot of heat, was going to effectively clean and sanitize.

What I read made some sense, but I kept looking :) I noticed Bill Nye's face down at the bottom of the page and clicked :)

So before I go any further, I would like you to watch this entertaining and informative video by one of my childhood heroes (I *loved* him!), Bill Nye :)



After seeing this video, I not only better understood the technology, but I really, really had to try it. The thought of not having to use anything other than perfectly clean water to clean my house became so appealing.

If you would like a little more information on the cleaning and sanitizing abilities of the Ionator, please check out these other great links.

Check out Activeion on YouTube!
Clips from The Doctors, CNBC, PBS & More.

EPA Certified Lab Results

When used as directed, the Activeion Pro removes more than 99.9 percent of the bacteria listed below from non-poroushard surfaces. This includes 2009 H1N1! (PDF Press release on that!)

How Does It Work?

A water cell applies a slight electrical charge to the tap water. The charged water passes through an ion exchange membrane, creating an oxygen-rich mixture of positive and negative nano-bubbles. The activated water now attracts dirt like a magnet and lifts it from the surface, enabling it to be easily wiped away.

Let's talk about the Ionator HOM in action :)

The first thing I did when it arrived was charge it up and then test it out! I couldn't wait. Yes, it charges! No batteries to replace, simply plug and go. I have had this for about a month and have only charged it twice.

The first thing I used this on was my counters. I sprayed it on like I would have with any cleaner. I liked how it worked. It didn't seem like it require any more effort than usual and I was pleased with the result. My counter tops are dark though, so I glanced around for a challenge. Something I could really see the results with.

I soon spotted my filthy glass patio door. My husband comes home through these doors and my children know this. They spend much of their time going to the door, touching it, kissing it, licking it, you name it! This poor door was covered in greasy finger prints, cracker kisses and who knows what else.

I grabbed my towel and sprayed the door down as usual. I wiped and swirled and then did the same to the outside of the door. This is what impressed me and got me hooked on the Ionator HOM. I am so pleased with it.

(Please click on it to see it larger!)

What really impressed me was not just that it worked, but that it didn't require any extra exertion. Also, for glass and like things, it didn't leave streaks, and that's without any harsh chemicals to prevent them :)

I also did my stove top. I purposely left it overnight to let the food left over to try on. Sorry about the light reflections. I tried :)

(Please click on it to see it larger!)

I have found the Ionator HOM to be very effective and easy to use. As with any cleaner, if there is something stubborn, I spray, let it sit and then give it a little extra scrub. Even if it did require a little extra elbow grease, I would consider this a great cleaning product.

I have three children and they are around me at all times. I can safely clean around them with the Ionator HOM. I've been using homemade cleaners for some time, but they still aren't things that I want to spray directly around my children. I don't have to worry about that at all with this.

Here is a cute little bonus :)

This is on the Activeion website, but it is so adorable. I wanted to share it here too :) I use to have a chinchilla. They are so sweet!

"So, where did our life-changing technology come from? One sensitive little chinchilla, named Chili.

Hi Chili!

When the inventor of our technology bought Chili as a pet for his family, he learned quickly — many home cleaning products are deadly to the little fellows. So, he set out to invent a way to clean the chinchilla's cage — without harmful chemicals. Chili's owner looked at the big, technologically advanced cleaners and sanitizers often used in food-processing plants and costing thousands of dollars. He found a way to miniaturize the technology to fit into a portable, and affordable, handheld appliance. And he ended up with a revolutionary product for the good of all.

Enter Activeion Cleaning Solutions, and Activeion™ Pro, ionator EXP™ and ionator HOM™.

Made in the U.S.A.

Today, our products are built right in Minnesota, and are used every day around the world to guard students in schools, patients in hospitals, guests in restaurants from harmful bacteria. And now we can all clean most homes, schools, and businesses with simple ionized water. Just think: One day soon we will wonder why we ever used chemicals to clean. Thanks to Activeion. And that sweet little chinchilla."

I have had the pleasure of talking to and working with Activeion and they would like to give you the opportunity to see what I have seen and enjoy this great product.

----Update! We have a winner!----
The giveaway portion is over :) Thank you to everyone that participated!

Congratulations to Nikki! This thing is amazing! Enjoy!

Here's how to win this wonderful product for yourself!
Please leave a separate comment for each entry in order to have it counted.

This entry is mandatory! If you do not do this, your other entries will not count!
Post here and tell me what it would mean to you, to never need chemical cleaners for your daily cleaning. Include your email address (if it's not on your profile) and the words "Live Green" somewhere in your comment.

Want more entries?

*Follow us and tweet this giveaway! Please tweet, "Never clean your home with chemicals again! Win the amazing Ionator HOM from @Active_ion & @EFFblog http://bit.ly/1jtGb1 #ecofriendly #eco" Leave a comment with a link to your status. Tweet daily for more entries!

*Follow Activeion on Twitter, leave a comment

*Follow our blog and post letting me know that you are :) (right side bar)

*Join our new email newsletter (right sidebar) for notices on special events coming up for the blog.

*Put the EFF Blog Button on your blog sidebar or web page. Leave a link!

*Become a fan of the EFF blog on Facebook, leave a comment.

*Become a fan of Activeion on Facebook, leave a comment.

*Become a member of our new Green Living Community, leave a comment.

*Post about this giveaway on your blog or other social media. Leave a comment with a link.

and as always, Good Luck and Enjoy!

US & Canada Only. Giveaway ends February 4th. I'll use random.org to pick a winner. I will email the winner. If I do not hear back within 48 hours a new winner will be picked.

FCC Disclaimer: I was provided the product to review for the giveaway (Thank you Activeion. I am thrilled with the results!). No money or other perks were given. All reviews are my own and honest opinions. For more information about this blog please look here. For giveaway guidelines please look here. RVJQEWGH8B3D

Wear Your Baby

I have talked about baby wearing before and I am all too happy to be able to do it again. I believe so strongly in it.

Our babies need contact, comfort and security. Wearing them provides them that and also affords the wearer flexibility.

I can honestly say that I don't know how I could possibly get anything done around here without wearing my baby girl.

Speaking of. Check her out here in my Sleepy Wrap Organic :)

She has grown way too fast (she's nearly 5 months!) She loved it when she was smaller and she loves it still :) Look at that smile!

So what's so great about the Sleepy Wrap Organic? Well, for starters it's made from organic cotton. It comes in two beautiful neutral shades. Natural and Khaki (Mine is the Natural and I love it.)

It is so soft and it also has some stretch to it. What's so great about the stretch is that it makes it *so* easy to use. There is no guess work involved in trying to make sure you have enough slack in the fabric to put your baby into it. It really makes the process easy.

I just wrap it up so that it fits snug to me, but w/out stretching it... if that makes sense. Then I tie it. All of the instructions I see on wrapping carriers have you do it in the front or back. I prefer to tie mine on the side :) I find it to be the most comfortable and out of the way.

Here's a great video I found for how to put it on :)

So why wear your baby?
Babies that are worn:

Cry Less! (43% less overall and 54% less during the evening hours)1
Are Healthier! (gain weight faster, have better motor skills, coordination, increased muscle tone, and sense of balance)2
Get a better view of the world! (babies pushed in strollers or carried around in car seats only get to see the adult world at knee-level)
Become Independent Faster! (making them more confident and less clingy)3
Sleep Better! (they fall asleep quicker and sleep for longer periods of time)
Learn More! (not overstimulated, but calm and alert, observing the world around them)
And are just plain Happier!4

Carrying your baby also:

Creates confident parents - there's no better feeling than when your baby is calm and content because you have met all her needs (Sometimes that moment of silence is everything!)
Allows you to safely move about with your baby regardless of terrain - you can stroll down uneven sidewalks, narrow lanes, walk up stairs, or climb mountain
Is convenient - there is no awkwardness like when carrying a heavy plastic car seat with one arm!
Enables better communication between you and your baby - (without your baby having to cry!) as you become attuned to her facial expressions and other gestures
Provides security - access to food, warmth, and love
Is good for your soul -it encourages you to get out and get some exercise and some fresh air into your lungs
Makes discreet nursing possible - without having to find a place to sit
Helps you to interact with your other children and hold your baby close at the Same time - very practical if you have other little ones
Allows you to decide who may touch or interact with your baby
Aids digestion - the constant motion and the upright position eases acid reflux and colic
Allows you to go places, together! - you can go anywhere and feel secure.

There are so many reasons, but there are just a few. For more, check out the Sleepy Wrap site, or any babywearing information online (there is lots!)

As an adorable bonus, Sleepy Wrap also sells the most adorable little teddy bear, the Organic Sleepy Bear. This little bear is so sweet and sends a great message to any child who receives it. I think it would look adorable in a baby shower gift basket too. I want one! :) Too cute!

So how would you like to win one of the fantastic Sleepy Wrap Organics?

----Update! We have a winner!----
The giveaway portion is over :) Thank you to everyone that participated!

Congratulations to Little Miss Emmy Lou! You will love this!!!

Here's how!
Please leave a separate comment for each entry in order to have it counted.

This entry is mandatory! If you do not do this, your other entries will not count!
Post here and tell me why you want to wear your baby. Include your email address (if it's not on your profile) and the words "Live Green" somewhere in your comment.

Want more entries?

*Follow us and tweet this giveaway! Please tweet, "Win & Wear your baby with an Organic Sleepy Wrap from @SleepyWrap from @EFFblog http://bit.ly/1jtGb1 #babywearing" Leave a comment with a link to your status. Tweet daily for more entries!

*Follow Sleepy Wrap on Twitter, leave a comment

*Follow our blog and post letting me know that you are :) (right side bar)

*Join our new email newsletter (right sidebar) for notices on special events coming up for the blog.

*Put the EFF Blog Button on your blog sidebar or web page. Leave a link!

*Become a fan of the EFF blog on Facebook, leave a comment.

*Become a fan of Sleepy Wrap on Facebook, leave a comment.

*Post about this giveaway on your blog or other social media. Leave a comment with a link.

and as always, Good Luck and Enjoy!

US & Canada Only. Giveaway ends February 2nd. I'll use random.org to pick a winner. I will email the winner. If I do not hear back within 48 hours a new winner will be picked.

FCC Disclaimer: I was provided the product to review for the giveaway (Thank you Sleepy Wrap! I love it. A lot!). No money or other perks were given. All reviews are my own and honest opinions. For more information about this blog please look here. For giveaway guidelines please look here.

Food, Inc.

I know it's the weekend and I try not to post on the weekends when everyone is off doing things, but I feel that this is important.

I just rented and watched Food, Inc. on Amazon.com

It's amazing and a *must* see for anyone that eats food. It's only $3 to rent it. It's instantly available to watch on your PC. Please, please, please watch it. If for no other reason, than to be informed.

This movie was so much more than I expected.

Know what you're eating.
Know where you food comes from.
Know what you are feeding your children.

$3 on Amazon, watch it! http://bit.ly/watchfoodinc

If you've seen the movie, get involved! Share what you thought of it. I would love to know.

Health Friendly Dental

I know there are several brands of health friendly toothpastes and other oral hygiene products, but I would like to tell you about my favorite.

Dr. Ken's is my all time favorite toothpaste. It has a great texture. Not gummy or gritty. The flavor is pleasant and not like chewing on a bitter mint leaf or eating straight sugar. I find it's a perfect middle of the road and it didn't even make me sick during my pregnancies! (If you're unaware, that can be an issue.)

You can check out exactly what is in each of their products here (without all of the unfamiliar terms!)

They offer several varieties of toothpaste. Spearmint, Wintergreen and Cinnamon, all with or without fluoride!

They also offer a whole slew of other products. I've had a sample of the mouthwash and it was great. I haven't tried the rest of them, but I look forward to doing so in the future :)

Mouthwash, Dental Floss, Breath Strips & Dental Gum



FCC Disclaimer: This is not a paid advertisement. I love my toothpaste! No money, product or other perks were given. All reviews are my own and honest opinions. For more information about this blog please look here.

You've got to try this diaper detergent!

I have talked about Thirsties in the past here and here.

I just love this company and love their products. The links above are to two of their diapering products and they are really great, they never leak and well, I just love them. Please take a moment to read more about them, their commitment to our planet, and how they choose to operate. You can find that here.

I was given the chance to try out their new cloth diaper detergent combo, pre-wash and super wash. I am not use to using a commercial detergent, but I love their other products, and the description of these seemed great. I thought I would give it a shot :)

Thirsties has lots of great products, you can even request a catalog by going here :)

pre-wash
Completely non-toxic solution
100% biodegradable
Custom formulated by a chemist specifically for use in pre-washing diapers
Designed to help loosen and rinse away waste and bacteria
Antimicrobial ingredient purifies naturally
Washes completely clean; will not leave residue
Highly concentrated to reduce costs and carbon output
HE Safe
Made in the USA

super wash
Completely non-toxic solution
100% biodegradable
Odorless & colorless
Custom formulated by a chemist specifically for use in washing cloth diapers
Probiotic solution introduces good bacteria
Reduces odor
Helps prevent diaper rash
Effectively brightens and whitens without harmful additives
Washes completely clean; will not leave residue
Highly concentrated to reduce costs and carbon output
HE Safe
Made in the USA

I have not been disappointed :) This two part system really does the trick. I've been using it for about a month and a half now. To anyone with 1 child, this is like 2-3 months (I do a lot of laundry for my girls.)

What I really like about this system is that it's so easy. Below, you see the two cap system. The cap on the left is the one you open. It goes to a little reservoir that holds the amount of liquid (with measuring marks) that you squeeze into it. It reminds me of the fluoride and mouthwash containers :) It's so easy. Lid off, squeeze, pour, lid on. That's its. I can easily do it with my daughter in one arm. I like that :)
What's in it?
Well, I'm not exactly sure. I do know that the pre-wash conatains honey and lemon juice (per the allergy warning on the back of the bottle.)

As for the other ingredients, their descriptions say that they are non-toxic, 100% biodegradable and they get rid of bad bacteria/introduce good. If I had any memory of my chemistry courses in college, perhaps I could speculate :D

I can tell you that I haven't had any build up, sensitivity or stink issues.

What else do I like?
I love how it works overall. I have no staining, and I haven't been able to sun my diapers in months!

I've mentioned how easy it is. Love that.

It also seems to last forever. I've done probably 2 dozen or more loads with this stuff and I'm barely 1/3 of the way into my bottles. That's great.

What don't I like?
I wish my washing machine was bigger :D Seriously, I have so much to do around here each day that I often forget to do things and if I forget to wash my diapers when the pail is full, my load becomes too large and things just don't wash as well when it's too full.

Nothing wrong with the detergent, I guess I wish they could send me laundry fairy. I'll see what I can do ;)

I am not fond of plastic bottles. BUT, I do understand them and I do recycle them. I know in some areas recycling plastics is iffy, but I do know that all of ours are used locally by a company, so that does make me feel better about the plastics that seems to accumulate around here, despite our best efforts to reduce it.

----Update! We have a winner!----
The giveaway portion is over :) Thank you to everyone that participated!

Congratulations to Angela! I love this detergent and I hope you do too!

Oh and have I mentioned that you have the chance to try this too??!

Here's how to enter to win!
Please leave a separate comment for each entry in order to have it counted.

This entry is mandatory! If you do not do this, your other entries will not count!
Please post here telling me another Thirsties product that you would like to try. Include your email address (if it's not on your profile) and the words "Live Green" somewhere in your comment.

Want more entries?

*Follow us and tweet this giveaway! Please tweet, "Learn about and *win* Thirsties kickin' detergent combo from @EFFblog http://bit.ly/1jtGb1 #clothdiapers" Leave a comment with a link to your status. Tweet daily for more entries!

*Follow our blog and post letting me know that you are :) (right side bar)

*Join our new email newsletter (right sidebar) for notices on special events coming up for the blog.

*Put the EFF Blog Button on your blog sidebar or web page. Leave a link!

*Become a fan of the EFF blog on Facebook, leave a comment.

*Become a fan of Thirsties on facebook, leave a comment.

*Post about this giveaway on your blog or other social media. Leave a comment with a link.

and as always, Good Luck and Enjoy!

US Only. Giveaway ends Jaurary 28th. I'll use random.org to pick a winner. I will email the winner. If I do not hear back within 48 hours a new winner will be picked.

FCC Disclaimer: I was provided the product to review for the giveaway (Thank you Thirsties!). No money or other perks were given. All reviews are my own and honest opinions. For more information about this blog please look here. For giveaway guidelines please look here.

Reuse, Reuse, Reuse!

Children and babies seem to have so many cute buyables. Sometimes needed, sometimes not, but I think many of us end up with some from time to time.

Buying tons of new plastic items isn't very eco-friendly. That's where companies like Children's Orchard come in!

Children's Orchard is America's finest resale/retail boutique. They featuring brand-name, top quality, gently used and new kid's clothing, toys, furniture, equipment, books and accessories!

They also pay cash for your kid's gently used clothing, toys, furniture and accessories.

Children's Orchard is having an event right now where you can go to their Facebook page, join and then let them know what you do to live green. The entry with the most 'like' votes wins a $500 shopping spree.

I have entered and you should too! I have really enjoyed reading the current entries, it's a great way to find more ideas on how we can all do a little more :)

If you feel like it, I would love you vote too :) Just look for the eco-friendly family logo by my entry.

Click here to go to their Facebook page and enter for yourself! Good luck!

How do you store your diapers?

I love seeing how other people store their diapers. The cute set ups, the pretty baskets, neat changing stations etc.

I would like to share what I do and some of the things that I have done :)

My current set up is a couple of things. We have two girls in cloth. Baby G sleeps in our room with us and her changing station is set up by my side of the bed. It looks like this :)
I am no longer quite that organized but I do what I can ;)

My older daughter uses the potty frequently, so her diapers are in the bathroom. We have a vanity that has 3 drawers down each side and then a section under the sink. Something like this:
Under the sink, I have her prefolds and some inserts. Things I don't use much. In the 3 drawers on the right (mine has 3). I keep her diapers, and wipes are dry in the top drawer, stacked up and ready to go :)

Here are some of my older set ups :) This was my very first.

It was in the bottom of our old entertainment center. It was super handy when she was really little :) This was in her room before we bought the changing station. It was the bottom of a converted bookshelf :) We added a rod in the top half to hang her baby clothes before my husband built her a closet :)
Now, I have never done this one, but I've always thought that it looked like a good idea :) These are the Closetmaid cubes, but it would be so easy to make yourself. Also, if you DIY, you could make it fit the style of basket/container/cube you want.
Here are a few great options that I have seen :)
and this wall mounted version :D This would be great above a changing table or dresser!

Do you have a great set up? I would love to share it here! Please email me :)

What to do with solids?

What to do with solids is a question that comes up often when people start considering cloth and/or first switch to cloth.

Thought it's not complicated, I thought I would try to cover exactly what you are suppose to do with solids.

There are two types of solids.

Breastfed Solids (completely breastfed)
Formula & Food Solids

Breastfed solids don't *need* anything to be done to them. You can take the diaper off of your baby, toss it into your pail and then straight into the wash on laundry day. The solids will wash away on their own in your wash cycles. No work needed.

All other solids should be dumped into the toilet and flushed away. This generally includes formula & food solids, or anything that is more truly 'solid'.

What you will want to do is take the diaper off of your baby and simply dump the solids into the toilet. Unfortunately, not all solids are truly 'solid'. Some might need some help to actually get off of the diaper and into the toilet.

There area few options.

#1 Diaper liners. I have heard good things about these liners. The idea behind these is to put them into your diapers and then if baby poops, you simply dump the liner, poop and all. No fuss.

#2 Scrape. Some people use some sort of utensil to scrape the poop from the diaper. Perhaps a cheap spatula, knife, etc. bought specifically for this purpose. I do this for diapers that aren't easily dumped, and then put them into my pail.

#3 A diaper sprayer. These attatch easily to your toilet and you can wash away the solids right there and be done with it.

This one is from BumGenius. I've heard great things about it.

#4 A laundry tub with sprayer faucet. Similar idea as the sprayer. I have this set up from Lowe's. The great thing about this is that I can use it for stained laundry (soaking) and for washing and lanolizing my wool :) Once washed out of course :)I do #4 mostly. I also rinse every diaper that has solids in it. Even my baby's breastfed solids. I just can't throw them into my machine. I'm awful, I know :)

I find that the wash tub is nice for me because we had room for it by our washer. I dump solids in to the toilet, put them into my pail. On wash day, I put on my gloves, put the wet diapers into the wash, the ones with solids/remnants into my wash tub and then spray them off. It takes me a few minutes and then I put them into the wash too.

My diapers don't have any stains, and I really think the sprayer plays a large roll in that :) Plus, I feel like my diapers get really clean. The less that goes into the wash, the less that the detergent needs to fight :) Or at least that's how I see it :)

Mommy-To-Be? What to do?

Being pregnant is a very special time in life. You are creating a life and you are becoming a mother. It's amazing. Congratulations on your pending arrival or future plans!

It's also a time in life when we need things we've likely never even heard of, set eyes on, etcetera (as pre-mommy women) It's easy to run to everyone's recommendations and grab up products like there is no tomorrow. Thanks hormones!

I thought I would try to get a list together of popular pregnancy must-haves... with a little twist! I want to offer up only the eco-friendly versions of the product, or an entirely separate eco-friendly alternative to the product. After all, being pregnant shouldn't force us to search endlessly or just give up our eco-friendly desires :)

I would also like to mention that this is more than your standard list of must-haves :)

I have been so excited about this. I've been working on it for months and I can't believe the time is finally here!!! To accompany this list, I have worked with most of these companies to put together a huge giveaway!!! One lucky mommy-t0-be will win most of this list, and some runners up will win things as well. (Good luck mommies!!!) **this portion is over**

Without further procrastination on my part, let's get this started! This is in alphabetical order.

BellaBand Organic

The BellaBand Organic comes in white, black or sand. It is 95% organic cotton and 5% spandex.

The BellaBand is a great pregnancy wardrobe accessory. It helps you stay in your prepregnancy pants longer in the beginning of your pregnancy (unbutton your pants, put the band on and let it hide it!). It also helps you late in pregnancy to cover up what shirts can't (some just aren't long enough) and then after pregnancy to help you fit back into your old clothes sooner.

I was given the chance to try one of these out and compare it to a traditional BellaBand. I have to say that I love the organic one so much better. Forget that it's organic for just a moment. It is *so* soft and it stays up better than the original. The original is nice and it works, but it also has a feel to it that is a bit more 'slick' than the organic cotton. To me, it just doesn't seem to stay in place as well. I really love the organic band.

I also love the packaging :) It comes in a thick paper package/box. I only wish that all of them were packaged this way and that they offered a lace version in the organic :D Even though my daughter is now 4 months old, this is a wonderful accessory and the sand color I have works great with almost all of my clothes.

*This item is included in the giveaway! A special thank you to Ingrid & Isabel for your participation in this event :)

**I received this item to review.

Belly Bandit - Bamboo

I do not own one of these, so I can't offer any personal experience or review, but I can tell you that I really wanted one. I actually still am considering it. My back could use it :)

The Bamboo Belly Bandit comes in black or natural. Here is some additional information from their site.

The Belly Bandit® is an abdominal compression binder designed to help you get your body back to its former fabulousness post childbirth.

Not only does the Belly Bandit® help reduce uncomfortable uterine swelling, it aids in decreasing bloating caused by water retention, and gives additional support for Mommy’s weary legs & back. For you breastfeeding moms, there’s a bonus… the Belly Bandit® will help you with your posture during feedings, and may help to reduce the all too common back & shoulder pain associated with breastfeeding. Ultimately, the Belly Bandit® will aid in getting you back to your pre pregnancy hotness faster than ever!

*This item is included in the giveaway! A special thank you to Bebeology for generously donating this :)

Body Pillow - Snoogle Organic

I have to say that I *LOVE* this thing. I got mine for Mother's Day during my third pregnancy and wished that I had given in and bought one with my first. It is truly amazing and the only way I was able to sleep well.

It is so perfect for pregnancy. I was able to have it under my head, around my back for support and then up through between my legs to support my knees and then the end resting to support my belly. It rocks. I *highly* suggest spending the money on this!

I purchased mine from Diapers.com If you'd like to get one (or anything else for that matter) from Diapers.com, Use Code: effblog to recieve $10 off of your first order and free shipping for orders over $49.

Breastpads - Milk Maids Hemp Breastpads

I have several pairs of these and they area amazing! Milk Maids breastpads are fantastic. I love how soft they are, how thin and absorbent.

I use to use thin disposables, but that was obviously not eco-friendly. I am so picky though. I can't stand for breastpads to be seen through my shirt. It's awful and I can't stand it. I tried other pads (they were awful) and then finally got the chance to try these. I love them. I think I have something like 10 pairs of them. I honestly can't say enough good things about them.

Milk Maids are available here for $5.00 a pair. Grab them up when you can, when she stocks them, they FLY out of stock. Yes, they are that good :)

*This item is included in the giveaway! Thank you to AFFF for all of your help and participation :)

Chocolate - Theo Organic & Fair Trade

I think just about ever woman loves chocolate, and pregnancy allows us to indulge a bit :)

Theo Chocolate is changing the definition of “quality” by uniting creative excellence that results in deliciously award-winning chocolate with their unwavering commitment to changing the way the cocoa industry conducts business. At Theo, they believe there is no luxury in products that benefit us today, while jeopardizing future generations ability to meet their needs. When you taste their chocolate you will experience their passion and integrity in every luscious bite. They promise, there is something for everyone from the adventurous “foodie”, to those seeking the simple comfort of a delectably creamy milk chocolate bar. They follow their passion for excellence to bring you chocolate that will delight your palate, ignite your imagination and inspire you to think and act sustainably! Be a part of their movement to save our planet and its capacity to nurture and sustain all living things. They can’t do it without you!

Theo Chocolate is proud to be the only Organic, Fair Trade, Bean-To-Bar chocolate factory in the United States.

Theo offers a large assortment of chocolate bars, yummy confections, sipping chocolates and more.

*This item is included in the giveaway! A great big 'Thank You' to Theo for your generous & yummy craving inducing participation in this event :)

Lotion - Earth Mama Angel Baby Natural Stretch Oil

Pregnancy often brings the worry of stretch marks with it. You want to be safe, especially when it comes to your body. What you put in it and what you put on it. Earth Mam Angel Baby has the answer :)

Are you an Angel Mama with a sensitive nose and an itchy, pregnant belly? Looking for the perfect natural stretch mark oil? Mama knows. That's why Natural Stretch Oil is exactly what every mama needs. Your gloriously expanding belly, hips and breasts will drink up the luxurious, natural blend of oils to help deter stretch marks and relieve the itch, and the light, delicate scent won't aggravate morning sickness.

Mama starts with plant-based oils that are infused with the healing herbal goodness of organic calendula and calming organic chamomile. Organic borage oil and neroli pure essential oil help nourish and encourage skin's natural elasticity for natural stretch mark care. Natural Stretch Oil is light and readily absorbable. It's vegan, cruelty-free and toxin-free (no artificial preservatives!), and contains no nut oils. It's lovely as a bath oil and perfect for
perineal massage to help avoid tears and episiotomies during natural childbirth.

Love the idea of pure, delicately scented Natural Stretch Oil but prefer a rich, emollient lotion? Mama's got your back (and belly, and hips)!

Earth Mama Body Butter combines the healing herbal goodness of organic calendula and calming organic chamomile with essential oils in a shea butter body lotion. And all in a safe-for-pregnancy-potion that won't aggravate morning sickness. It's vegan, cruelty-free and toxin-free (no artificial preservatives). It's the purest lotion for pregnancy stretch marks you'll find, made with 95% organic ingredients.

You'll love it for moisturizing and encouraging your skin's natural elasticity as your beautiful belly grows, but you'll appreciate it long after the birth of your angel baby! For expectant bellies, breasts and WAY beyond.

*The Natural Stretch Oil is included in the giveaway! Thanks so much to Earth Mama Angel Baby for contributing to this event!

Lounge Pants - Maggie's Organics

Can you say comfy? These lounge pants are so comfortable and colorful!!! One of my biggest gripes about organic fabrics is that the majority seem to be cream colored. I love color.

Maggie's Organics carries all sorts of apparel. Tees, tanks, dresses, socks, children's apparel, etc.

Their pricing is incredibly reasonable and everything is colorful and looks so comfortable. I suggest checking them out for all sorts of wardrobe basics :)

*This item is included in the giveaway! Thank you so much Maggie's Organics for your crazy comfy addition to this event!

**I received this item to review.

Nursing Nightgown - Expressiva Organic Pretty Rope Nightgown

I am currently nursing our third child and I can tell you that I have never had an article of nursing clothes *ever* fit so great. My biggest complaint about both maternity clothes and nursing clothes is that I truly believe that they are not designed for pregnant/nursing women. Most are a little larger in the front panel to accommodate a belly, but that's it. It is so rare when I am able to find something that fits both my breasts and my waist. This nightgown does it flawlessly!

I couldn't believe it when I tired it on. It fit, perfectly. It is so soft and it fits! Have I mentioned that it fits? I am not sure I can accurately describe my elation in finding something that works :D

What's better is that it is so super soft, looks sexy on and is sized to allow for shrinkage. Thank you Expressiva!

*This item is included in the giveaway! Thank so much to Expressiva for your participation in this event and for your thoughtfully made nursing wear. It is appreciated :)

**I received this item to review.

Preggie Pop Drops Organic

Nausea associated with pregnancy is a very common phenomenon occurring in up to 90% of pregnancies.

Several different herbs have been shown to be helpful in relieving nausea associated with pregnancy: Ginger, Peppermint/Spearmint, Lavender and Citrus

All of these herbs have been “Generally Recognized As Safe” (GRAS) for use in food in the U.S. and Europe. No serious adverse effects have been reported with any of these herbs when they are used in moderation.

Although it is not known exactly how these herbs work, it is postulated that they all have a local soothing and antispasmodic effect on the stomach. Recent scientific evidence shows that they are effective at relieving nausea.

For example, in a clinical trial of pregnant women, ginger was found to be more effective than a sugar pill in relieving morning sickness. Sucking on a lollipop which contains a small amount of these herbs is a safe and soothing way to deal with your nausea during pregnancy and can also be a wonderful aid for the discomforts of Labor!!

These Preggie Pop Drops are made with Organic ingredients that include: organic evaporated cane juice, organic brown rice syrup, Natural Favors (made from essential oils) and Natural Colors.

The 12pk box includes three of their most popular flavors: Sour Lemon, Sour Raspberry & Green Apple

*This item is included in the giveaway! Thanks so much to Three Lollies for your yummy contribution to this event :)

Reusable Water Bottle - Earthlust

Staying hydrated is so vital to a healthy pregnancy.

According to AssociatedContent.com - "Dehydration in early pregnancy or first trimester, can lead to an insufficient amount of amniotic fluid. This can lead to the baby laying directly against the uterus and can cause limb deformities. Becoming dehydrated during pregnancy in the second and third trimesters can lead to heat exhaustion, muscle-cramping, fatigue and even premature labor."

The best way to stay hydrated is to drink a lot of water :) To make that easier, I find that having a water bottle around works wonders in making me remember to just drink more water.

Earthlust makes the most beautiful bottles. I have one of these and it is fantastic. The design is great. It doesn't have any weird ripples, ledges, etc. in it to make it hard to clean. It's very straight forward in design. I love the color and artwork. It doesn't flavor my water.

EarthLust bottles are hand made from high quality #304 (18/8) food grade stainless steel, which is naturally safe unlined. Their bottles are a custom design - not stock bottles. Most of their line is limited edition art (these bottles are so fashionable!) They use non-toxic paints and BPA-free safe polypropylene #5 caps.

Their bottles come in 13 ounce, 20 ounce and 1 liter sizes. Each bottle comes with a high quality carabineer and optional sports tops are available for all sizes. Every bottle helps to eliminate waste and gives you a safe and stylish way to have a cold beverage near you at all times!

*This item is included in the giveaway! A special thank you to Earthlust for your participation in this event with your beautiful bottles :)

**I received this item to review.

Tea - Earth Mama Angel Baby

To me, there is nothing like curing up with a warm cup of tea. It provides comfort, warmth and peace. I have enjoyed these teas myself and am so happy to be able to share them with you :)

For the pregnant mama who has everything: nausea, heartburn, anxiety and labor on the horizon, Mama's got USDA Certified 100% Organic and Certified Kosher teas formulated for pregnancy's most common discomforts. They've put four of Earth Mama Angel Baby's best sellers in one easy-to-try sampler box.

Ginger-minty Morning Wellness Tea is a comforting way to help get you through those morning queasies that often last all day. Delicious and soothing Heartburn Tea was lovingly created to help turn down the furnace in your belly. Peaceful Mama Tea combines calming herbs in a delectable blend to help ease a mama's busy head and agitated body. And yummy Third Trimester Tea blends beneficial herbs especially to nurture all those mama parts gearing up for your angel baby's arrival.

All Earth Mama Angel Baby teas now come in easy to brew tea bags! And there's even more good news: the tea bags are biodegradable, the tea overwrap is compostable and the 100% recycled and recyclable cartons were produced using wind energy. Steep, sip and enjoy, mama!

*This item is included in the giveaway! Thanks so much to Earth Mama Angel Baby for contributing to this event!)

Underwear/Bra

I have searched high an low for eco-friendly bras and underwear. I think that comfortable for these items will depend on you, but here is a short list of sites I found that might help :)

Expressiva - Organic Items
Bravado - Bamboo Bra
Blue Canoe
PACT - These aren't specifically for maternity, but I've found that a size up and low rise works well in "normal" undies :)


Recap - Easy List :)
BellaBand Organic* **
Bamboo Belly Bandit*
Body Pillow - Snoogle Organic
Breastpads - Milkmaids*
Chocolate - Theo Organic & Fair Trade*
Lotion - Earth Mama Angel Baby Natural Stretch Oil*
Lounge Pants - Maggie's Organics* **
Nursing Nightgown - Expressiva Organic Pretty Rope Nightgown* **
Preggie Pop Drops Organic (for nausea!)*
Reusable Water Bottle - Earthlust* **
Tea - Earth Mama Angel Baby*
Underwear/Bra

*Item is included in the giveaway
**Item was provided for review.

Are you expecting a little baby? Planning to?
Have a special friend/family member who is?
This list is a great for registries, baby showers, or just because gifts!

----Update! We have a winner!----
The giveaway portion of this event is over :) Thank you to everyone that participated!

Congratulations to Eco-Friendly and Fugal! Holy Moly, Congrats!Congratulations to our runners up, Jen & The Wife

Are you ready for a chance to win this great gift basket?
Here's how!

Please leave a separate comment for each entry in order to have it counted.

This entry is mandatory! If you do not do this, your other entries will not count!
Tell me a little about why being eco-conscious is so important to you :) Include your email address (if it's not on your profile) and the words "Live Green" somewhere in your comment.

Want more entries?

*Follow us and tweet this giveaway! Please tweet, "Check out (and win!) our list of pregnancy must-haves in the @EFFBlog Mommy-to-be Event #giveaway http://bit.ly/1jtGb1" Leave a comment with a link to your status. Tweet daily for more entries!

*Join our new email newsletter (left sidebar) for notices on special events (like this) coming up for the blog.

*Follow our blog and post letting me know that you are :) (right side bar)

*Become a fan of the EFF blog on Facebook, leave a comment.

*Post about this giveaway on your blog or other social media. Leave a comment with a link.

*Put the EFF Blog Button on your blog or web page. Leave a link!

*Become a fan, follow, etc our participating companies! One entry each!
Don't forget to leave a comment to let me know!
Expressiva Newsletter
Ingrid & Isabel Facebook
Bebeology Facebook & Twitter
Earth Mama Angel Baby Facebook & Twitter
Three Lollies Facebook
Maggie's Organics Facebook & Twitter
Theo Chocolate Facebook & Twitter
Earthlust Facebook

US only. Giveaway ends January 31st. I'll use random.org to pick a winner. I will email the winner. If I do not hear back within 48 hours a new winner will be picked.

FCC Disclaimer: I was provided the items noted above to review. No other product, money, etc. was given for this promotion. All reviews are my own and honest opinions. For more information about this blog please look here. For giveaway guidelines please look here.

Win A Beautiful Hemp Diaper Bag!

I've mentioned these bags from Maxwell Designs before (in this post). They are gorgeous bags made from hemp and can be custom made. I don't own one of these, but I love the look of them and the Mommy that runs this company is fabulously sweet and fun to work with :)

Check out these bags!


She has new inventory and in her excitement, she has generously set up a giveaway for our readers :)

You have the special opportunity to win a custom medium sized Maxwell Designs diaper bag *with* your choice of hemp color (blue, taupe, black or natural) and fabric accent!

I would also like to mention that Maxwell Designs also has a discount code special for our readers :)

Use code: teff10 to receive 10% off of your total purchase.
This coupon is valid through March of 2010!

Free shipping for orders US over $160: Use code: usashipover160 at checkout
In Canada? Use code: canadashipover150

----Update! We have a winner!----
The giveaway portion is over :) Thank you to everyone that participated!

Congratulations to Soyager! These bags look amazing!

Here's how to enter :)
Please leave a separate comment for each entry in order to have it counted.

This entry is mandatory! If you do not do this, your other entries will not count!
Post here and tell me what your favorite fabric pattern is (choose wisely!)! Include your email address (if it's not on your profile) and the words "Live Green" somewhere in your comment.

Want more entries?

*Follow us and Maxwell Designs and tweet this giveaway! Please tweet, "Win an Eco-Conscious Diaper Bag from @EFFBlog & @MaxwellDesigns http://bit.ly/1jtGb1" Leave a comment with a link to your status.

*Join our new email newsletter (left sidebar) for notices on special events coming up for the blog. Don't worry, I won't be sending out daily emails :)

*Follow our blog and post letting me know that you are :)

*Become a fan of the EFF blog on facebook, leave a comment.

*Become a fan of Maxwell Designs on facebook, leave a comment.

*Post about this giveaway on your blog. Leave a comment with a link.

*Put the EFF Blog Button on your blog or web page. Leave a link!

*Put the Maxwell Designs Button (scroll down) on your page. Leave a link :)

*Sign up for the Maxwell Designs newsletter, leave a comment.

US & Canada Only. Giveaway ends January 8th. I'll use random.org to pick a winner. I will email the winner. If I do not hear back within 48 hours a new winner will be picked.

FCC Disclaimer: This is not a paid review. No product, money or anything else was given for this promotion. All reviews are my own and honest opinions. For more information about this blog please look here. For giveaway guidelines please look here.