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As parents, we always want the best for our babies. But to understand what it is indeed Safe can feel overwhelming, confusing, and frankly… a little stressful. From misleading labels to hidden toxins, the world of baby products isn’t always as clean as we think it is or should be.
So this episode of Chick Chat delves into the truth behind baby products, what parents should really care about, and how to choose items that are safe, non-toxic and actually good for your little one.
Joining me as our guest is someone who always keeps it real: Arin Schultz, Chief Growth Officer of Naturepedicfather of four boys and one of my favorite people to talk to about this topic. If you’re a longtime listener, you might remember him from episode 124 (our trivia deep dive!).
This time, we reveal the dirty side of baby products and how to choose safer ones for our babies.
Why this conversation matters
Babies spend more time sleeping, breathing and touching their environment than any other age group, and their developing bodies are away more vulnerable to chemicals such as:
- VOCs
- flame retardants
- formaldehyde
- polyurethane foam
- PVC/vinyl
- synthetic latex
- chemical adhesives
Many of these are commonly found in nursery furniture, crib mattresses, beddingand everyday items labeled “eco-friendly” or “natural.”
We fully believe that parents deserve to know what is real and what is “greenwashed”.
What We Covered in This Episode
1. Hidden toxins in baby products (the one that shocked Arin the most)
Arin shares what he’s learned after nearly a decade in the organic mattress industry, including the shocking chemicals allowed in conventional crib mattresses and baby furniture, and how easy it is for companies to mislead parents.
2. Greenwashing: phrases and fake certifications that don’t really mean anything
We break down common marketing claims such as:
- “environmentally friendly”
- “green”
- “plant based”
- “natural mixture”
- “Bamboo” (spoiler: it’s usually rayon)
- “Organic Cotton Cover” (while the inside is full of junk)
Arin shares which tags really matter so you know what to look for.
3. “It’s just a mattress”… or is it?
Most babies spend 12-16 hours a day on their crib mattress, breathing in whatever material it’s made of. Mattresses are also one of them bigger sources of indoor air pollution at home! This is why choosing a truly organic, non-toxic mattress matters.
4. What does “organic” mean in the mattress world (and what companies are getting away with)
Arin explains the difference between:
- GOTS certified organic mattresses
- GREENGUARD Gold (what it does and doesn’t mean)
- EWG verified
- Safe certification done
- Mattresses that are technically “low VOC” but still contain toxic core materials
5. Myth-Busting with Arin
We test popular beliefs such as:
- “All crib mattresses in the US are safe.”
- “You don’t need organic if you have a mattress protector.”
- “Flame retardants are required by law.”
- “Sturdy = uncomfortable.”
- “The mattresses stop emitting gases once they are opened.”
His answers? So good.
6. Budget-savvy parents: where to start
We know that not everyone can buy everything organic. And you should know that you don’t have to buy a completely organic nursery. In this episode, we talk about:
- How to prioritize purchases
- What matters most is your baby’s health
- Which exchanges have the biggest impact?
7. Real or Toxic?
I did a quick fire run through popular baby items with Arin:
- foam play mats
- Bamboo crib sheets.
- silicone baby products
- memory foam pillows for toddlers
- waterproof protectors
- MDF furniture
Arin gives us the real deal and what we need to know.
8. Parenting wins… and fails
And just for fun, Arin shares his favorite win – and a fail. (I think many of us can relate.)
This episode is proudly sponsored by Naturepedicthe leader in certified organic mattresses and sleep products for families.
Since 2003, Naturepedic has been committed to eliminating harmful chemicals from babies’ and children’s sleep spaces. They use certified organic materials, avoid flame retardants and polyurethane foam and focus on protecting both your baby and the planet.
See how their products are made our exclusive factory tour!
Get 20% off. Naturepedic baby and children’s products with code: BABYCHICK20
Where to learn more
Final Thoughts
As parents, we always do the best we can with the information we have. Once you understand what’s actually in the products your baby touches, sleeps and breathes (and how it can affect them), the way forward becomes much clearer.
Well done for knowing better, choosing better and resting easier.
