There are many companies that have great products that appeal to the environmentally conscious parents. My idea of “going green” is a little different. I believe in recycling baby products. Here is a list of my favorite baby products to borrow, if you can, instead of buy.
5. The Baby Swing
This is a fantastic product to have IF your baby likes it. I had a friend who lent hers to me. One baby loved it, and the other two didn’t. Babies will only fit into the swing for a short period of time and most of them are bulky to store. With the exception of a small travel swing, borrow it if you can. You will be glad that you did.
4. ExerSaucer or Jumperoo
Again, a great product, but the really nice styles are almost $100. My son loved it until he began to crawl, and now I dust it once a week and trip over it in my living room. I am excited that I will be able to pass along this practically new model to a pregnant friend.
3. The Boppy
I loved my Boppy and it is a well-made product that holds up incredibly well. It was great for breastfeeding, as well as using as protection around a baby as he/she is learning to sit up. But once your baby is sitting up and no longer nursing, your Boppy will find itself stuck in a closet somewhere. Mine is (I believe that most are) machine washable and they have covers that will give a borrowed Boppy a “new face.”
2. Newborn Baby Clothes
Babies wear these for such a short length of time. It is very helpful for a new Mom to have plenty of clothes for baby once home from the hospital.
1. Large Baby Toys for older babies
Most of these toys (like the Ball Blast and many other Fisher Price toys) are made well and built to last. If balls or other pieces are missing, you can call the company and order replacements in many cases.
Through your network of friends, borrow and pass along what you can. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.
Thanks to all my friends that lent me their wonderful baby items!
PLEASE NOTE: I orignally had crib bedding on my list but would recommend that all new parents do research on crib bedding products and determine what they are comfortable buying for the safety of their child. I personally believe that a mattress pad and fitted crib sheet are all that you need in your crib.