Non-Toxic Dad News: July 11, 2024

Let’s chat about our kiddo's clothing. Synthetic materials are often cheaper to produce and manufacture than cotton, leading to their widespread use in the clothing industry. For example, most brands use polyester as the most "cost-effective fabric" because it costs half as much per kilo as cotton. However, this cost-saving practice comes with significant downsides.

The materials used in these clothes can seriously harm your kid's health. They can be absorbed through the skin each time your child wears them, exposing them to chemical toxins and even microplastics. Some materials, like spandex and nylon, can release toxic chemicals such as flame retardants, BPA, and phthalates into your kids' bodies through their skin—causing hormonal disruption and more!

Watch Out for These Toxic Materials on Labels:

🏷️ Avoid These:

• ❌ Polyester

• ❌ Recycled Polyester

• ❌ Nylon

• ❌ Rayon

• ❌ Spandex

Opt for These Safer Alternatives:

🏷️ Choose These:

• ✅ 100% Cotton

• ✅ 100% Linen

• ✅ Cotton/Linen Blends

• ✅ Hemp

• ✅ Certain Types of Bamboo, like Lyocell

• ✅ Organic options are the best!

Be cautious of labels with cotton/polyester blends. They are better than pure polyester fabric but still far from ideal. Let's dig deeper!

Well, isn’t parenting a constant adventure? The never-ending questions, the ‘Why this’, ‘Why that’, ‘What’s this’ and not to forget the overwhelming responsibility we feel to make sure everything is just perfect for our little ones. It’s a full-time job!

Chlorine is widely recognized as a common and effective water treatment method used in municipal pools. However, many people are unaware that the same chlorine used to keep public pools clean is also present in the tap water that flows into homes. This means that the water you use for showering and drinking could be just as toxic as pool water, potentially leading to various health issues.

Petroleum products are deeply integrated into our everyday lives, often in ways we don’t even realize. From personal care items to household goods, the pervasive presence of petroleum-derived substances can significantly impact our health. Prolonged exposure to these products has been linked to various adverse health effects, including inflammation, autoimmunity, and brain fog.

When dressing your kids, the materials in their clothes matter more than you might think. Synthetic fabrics can be harmful, releasing toxic chemicals that can be absorbed through the skin. Here’s how you can make safer choices:

Here’s How to Choose Safer Clothing:

1. Read the Labels: Always check the labels for fabric content. Avoid synthetic materials like polyester, nylon, rayon, and spandex, which can release harmful chemicals like flame retardants, BPA, and phthalates.

2. Opt for Natural Fibers: Choose clothing made from 100% natural fibers like cotton, linen, hemp, and certain types of bamboo, such as Lyocell. These materials are generally safer and more breathable.

3. Go Organic: Whenever possible, select organic options. Organic fabrics are produced without harmful pesticides and chemicals, making them healthier for your kids and the environment.

4. Beware of Blends: While cotton/polyester blends are better than pure polyester, they are still not ideal. Aim for clothing that is 100% natural fiber.

5. Check for Certifications: Look for certifications such as GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) or OEKO-TEX, which ensure the fabric meets stringent safety and environmental criteria.

Making these small changes can greatly impact your children’s health. Remember these tips the next time you’re shopping for kids' clothes. Stay informed and make safer choices for your family!

• 100% Organic Cotton or Hemp Clothing: T-shirts, bandanas, or tote bags.

• Natural Dyes: Hemp-based or plant-based dyes (e.g., indigo, turmeric, beetroot, spinach, or red cabbage).

• White Vinegar: Helps set the dye.

• Cotton Strings or Twine: For creating tie-dye patterns.

• Glass Jars or Ceramic Bowls: For mixing dye solutions.

• Wooden Spoons: For stirring the dye.

• Old Towels or Cloths: To protect the work surface and for drying hands.

• Stainless Steel Pot: For boiling the dyes.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Work Area:

   • Cover your workspace with old towels or cloths to protect it from dye stains.

   • Have all your materials ready and within reach.

2. Pre-Wash the Clothing:

   • Wash the hemp or organic cotton clothing to remove any sizing or finishes. Do not use fabric softener.

3. Create Dye Solutions:

   • For each natural dye, follow these general steps:

     • Indigo: Dissolve 2 tablespoons of indigo powder in 2 cups of warm water.

     • Turmeric: Boil 1/2 cup of ground turmeric in 4 cups of water for 20 minutes, then strain.

     • Beetroot: Boil 3-4 chopped beetroots in 4 cups of water for 30 minutes, then strain.

     • Spinach: Boil 2 cups of chopped spinach in 4 cups of water for 30 minutes, then strain.

     • Red Cabbage: Boil 1/2 a chopped red cabbage in 4 cups of water for 30 minutes, then strain.

   • Let the dye solutions cool and pour them into glass jars or ceramic bowls.

4. Soak the Clothing in Vinegar Solution:

   • Mix 1 part white vinegar with 4 parts water in a stainless steel pot.

   • Soak the clothing items in this solution for 30 minutes to help set the dye.

5. Create Tie-Dye Patterns:

   • Remove the clothing from the vinegar solution and wring out excess liquid.

   • To create patterns, twist or bunch up the clothing and secure it with cotton strings or twine.

6. Apply the Dye:

   • Apply the natural dye solutions to the clothing using wooden spoons. Be creative with your color combinations and patterns!

   • Make sure the dye saturates the fabric thoroughly for vibrant results.

7. Set the Dye:

   • Wrap the dyed clothing items in old towels or cloths to keep them moist. Let them sit for 6-8 hours or overnight.

8. Rinse and Wash:

   • After the dye has set, remove the cotton strings or twine and rinse the clothing under cold water until the water runs clear.

   • Wash the items separately in cold water with a mild detergent.

9. Dry and Enjoy:

   • Hang the clothing to dry in a well-ventilated area or dry them in a dryer on a low heat setting.

   • Once dry, your kids' tie-dye creations are ready to wear and show off!

Product Spotlight

The perfect gift for the Non-Toxic Dads and sons in your family!

Introduce a healthier choice with NADS Men’s Underwear, designed for the everyday comfort and well-being of the men in your family. Unlike traditional underwear that often contains synthetic fibers and plastic-based materials, NADS is made with certified organic, non-GMO cotton and non-toxic dyes. Many synthetic fabrics can trap moisture and heat, creating an environment that could potentially affect skin, testosterone levels, and overall health. In contrast, NADS offers a breathable, natural alternative that keeps things simple and safe—free from harsh chemicals and irritants. Show the men in your life that you love them by protecting their boys with NADS underwear.

I may receive a small commission if you purchase products through these links, but this will not affect your cost in any way.

We hope you found this week's newsletter both informative and inspiring. Making small changes, like choosing safer clothing materials and engaging in non-toxic crafts, can significantly impact your family's health and the environment. Stay tuned for more tips and insights on living a non-toxic lifestyle. Remember, every little step counts towards a healthier, happier future for our children.