It is incredibly important to celebrate Earth Day each year because it recognizes the harm humans are capable of causing while showing massive amounts of support across the globe for protecting the Earth and the environment. We draw attention to eco-friendly options, ways to reduce waste generated, both after use and in the production of products, and prioritizing recyclable or reusable options! In this, we save money, energy, and natural resources.
We are celebrating Earth Day by highlighting more ways to be eco-friendly. Yes, there are several accessories to support breastfeeding and pumping, that also have little-to-no long-term impact on the earth, are safe to use, improve the overall experience, and frankly, can save money too. Let’s cover our top breastfeeding supplies that enrich the experience for nursing moms and leave little impact. Happy Earth Day!
Fun Fact: Breastfed babies have fewer diapers over time! After the early days, bowel movements are fewer due to minimal waste- breastmilk is designed for the exact caloric needs for growth! That means fewer diapers in the landfill.
What Qualifications Should We Prioritize?
Properties and details that we look at for when deeming something better for the earth are:
- Minimal Packaging
- Packaging material (compostable, made from recycled materials, natural materials, etc)
- Reusability
- Product material (Natural? If plastic, like with pump parts, what is the quality, safety, and impact?)
- How is it sourced or produced?
- Effectiveness/Quality for Optimal Lactation Support
Breastfeeding Essentials
The top things that come to mind when looking at breastfeeding products to support breastfeeding mothers are nipple butter, nursing pads, nursing pillows (AKA breastfeeding pillows), and clothing, like nursing tanks and nursing covers. This also serves as a great gift guide or registry check-list for new moms (and veteran!)
Breastfeeding moms want to protect and soothe sore nipples, make breastfeeding more comfortable and accessible, and keep ourselves dry and comfortable.
1. Motif Medical Reusable Nursing Pads
Comfortable, absorbent, convenient, and eco-friendly, Motif’s new reusable nursing pads soak up any excess liquid from your breasts and feature a waterproof back that protects your clothing. In addition, the breast pads feature a “Countered Cone Design” that is shaped perfectly for your nipples and fits discreetly in a nursing bra. Organic cotton means they will breath well, and protect the skin from irritation. Comes with seven sets (14 Pads) plus a laundry bag-Enough to last you for a week! Soft, simple to wash, and easy to use.
2. Motherlove Breastfeeding Nipple Cream
Talk about a life saver! Soothe sore, cracked nipples, lubricate for pumping sessions, moisturize skin, all while sourcing from a facility that is zero-waste and solar powered! Non-GMO, organic, and free of harsh ingredients you don’t want, including lanolin, for those allergic. The cream is also packaged in a reusable or recyclable amber glass jar with a metal lid. A favorite among lactation consultants, too.
An interesting fact about this line is that it is Oeko-Tek Certified (pronounced e-koh tech), which goes above and beyond “USDA Organic Practices” in the U.S. From start to finish, from labor to materials, their is a high standard of quality and sourcing to produce their product. This nursing pillow features a modern design that is 100% cotton, velvets, and other quality materials, free of chemicals and metals that can be harmful to little ones.
4. The Milk & Honey Company Organic Nursing Cover
Made from organic cotton and bamboo viscose, its breathable and comfortable to use. Avoid plastics, like polyester, means its better on the environment, and better for the skin! Nursing covers also make great covers for the car seat, shielding from unwanted attention, weather elements, and for napping on-the-go. Its also produced and made in-house, based in North Carolina, which means less processing impact on the earth!
Top priorities for pumping mothers are breast milk storage bags, BPA-free plastics, and storage. Look for reusability, silicones, and supportive options. Here are our top picks (though we might be biased)!
1. Motif Medical Reusable Milk Storage Bags
That’s right: reusable. BPA-free silicone makes these easy to clean, sterilize and reuse! Can stand or lay in the fridge or freezer, dishwasher safe, and making pouring milk simple. Less waste all around! Each pack comes with 3 10-oz bags!
Breast Pump Essentials
2. Motif Medical Manual Silicone Breast Pump
No power needed, and helps protect milk supply! Use hands-free on the opposite side you’re currently feeding from to catch the “letdown”, or for on-the-go pumping. Supporting your milk supply is also a great way to lessen our “foot print” on the earth- less processed supplements, packaging, and waste.
3. Motif Medical Pumping Accessories
All of the plastics used in contact with skin and milk are BPA-free, and made to last longer. This includes the nipple shields, milk bottles, valves, membranes, and breastmilk storage bags. Quality accessories to help mothers get enough milk in less time.
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle!
