Creating your baby registry is a wonderful opportunity to make choices that support your baby's health from day one. More and more caregivers are looking beyond cute prints to the materials and chemicals that are used in everyday baby products. Some are even opting to build non-toxic baby registries to prioritize items that are gentler on their baby and their home environment. Let’s explore what a non-toxic baby registry is and how to find products that fit those preferences. What is a Non-Toxic Baby Registry? A non-toxic baby registry is a wishlist of baby products that are free from artificial fragrances, chemicals, and toxins. It includes essential items that have been made with cleaner materials and manufacturing processes. The goal is to reduce your baby’s exposure to substances that may impact their overall well-being, especially during infancy when their skin, lungs, and immune system are still developing. Some of the most common chemicals caregivers try to avoid when creating these registries are: BPA and BPS: Found in plastics and linked to hormone disruption Phthalates: Used to soften plastics and linked to respiratory and reproductive issues Flame retardants: Added to fabrics and foams, sometimes associated with developmental risks Formaldehyde: Used in adhesives and finishes, known to release harmful fumes Synthetic fragrances and dyes: Potential skin irritants and allergy triggers What Makes Baby Products Non-Toxic? Non-toxic baby products are made with materials and finishes that avoid known hazards. The focus is on quality, transparency, and responsible design. Look for: Organic cotton, food-grade silicone, BPA-free plastics, and medical-grade stainless steel Water-based finishes and low-VOC paints for furniture Fabrics and foams that meet flammability standards without added chemical flame retardants Certifications to Look for in Non-Toxic Baby Items It’s important to recognize the difference between buzzwords and verified non-toxic baby products. This is because phrases like “eco-friendly” or “natural” can be vague and misleading. The certifications below can help you identify products that meet your non-toxic baby registry standards and preferences. GREENGUARD Gold Certification: Ensures low chemical emissions for healthier indoor air. This certification is awarded by UL Solutions, a global safety science company that sets rigorous standards for indoor air quality. OEKO-TEX® Standard 100: Tests textiles for harmful substances. It is managed by the International Association for Research and Testing in the Field of Textile and Leather Ecology, which ensures that threads, buttons, and fabrics meet strict global safety criteria. Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS): Certifies organic fibers and responsible processing. Overseen by the Global Standard gGmbH, GOTS combines ecological and social criteria to promote organic and ethically made textiles. MADE SAFE®: Screens for thousands of known toxic chemicals. This nonprofit certification from the MADE SAFE organization focuses on products made without ingredients linked to harm to human health or the environment. CPSIA Compliance: Required by U.S. law to ensure products meet child safety standards. This is regulated by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and sets strict limits on substances like lead and phthalates in children’s products. Baby Safety Alliance: Advocates for transparency and education in children's product safety. This organization works with brands, parents, and safety experts to promote awareness and responsible manufacturing practices across the baby industry. Essential Items to Include in Your Non-Toxic Baby Registry When building your baby registry, think about the items your baby will use the most. This will help you prioritize products and guide decisions about what to include. Every family has different needs, but the following list is a good place to start. Organic Cotton or Bamboo Clothing, Bedding, Towels, and Burp Cloths Your baby’s skin is more delicate than an adult's, which makes clothing and linens an important place to invest in non-toxic options. Look for: GOTS-certified organic cotton or bamboo Hypoallergenic, breathable fabrics free from pesticides, bleaches, or synthetic dyes Items like bodysuits, sleep sacks, crib sheets, burp cloths, and towels are in near constant contact with your baby’s skin. Choosing certified organic versions helps minimize exposure to chemical residues often found in conventional fabrics. Glass or BPA-free Bottles Baby bottles are used multiple times a day, which makes material selection important. Some plastics can contain chemicals like BPA, BPS, or phthalates, which can leach into milk and formula, especially when heated. When choosing a bottle, opt for: Glass bottles, which are non-porous, easy to clean, and do not retain odors BPA-free plastic bottles, often paired with silicone nipples The Chicco Duo® Bottle combines the benefits of both. It features a glass inner layer that protects breast milk or formula from contact with plastic, surrounded by a lightweight, break-resistant outer layer. The bottles are also BPA, BPS, PVC & Phthalate-free. The included Intui-Latch® anti-colic silicone nipple is designed to support a natural latch. Non-Toxic Car Seats To meet federal safety regulations, many car seats contain added flame-retardant chemicals or stain-resistant treatments. These additives are commonly avoided by families looking to reduce chemical exposure in baby gear. Look for car seats that are: Free from added flame-retardant chemicals Made without stain-resistant coatings or treatments Labeled with clear information about material composition and compliance The Chicco ClearTex® line offers car seats that meet federal flammability standards (FMVSS 302) without the use of flame-retardant chemical treatments. These products use specially constructed polyester fibers that are inherently fire-resistant and are GREENGUARD Gold Certified. Non-Toxic Cribs, Bassinets, or Playards Sleep spaces are made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, plastic, and fabric. Some of these materials may contain adhesives, coatings, or finishes that release unwanted chemicals over time. When choosing a crib, bassinet, or playard, look for: Solid wood instead of MDF or particleboard, which can release formaldehyde-based fumes Water-based paints or stains that are low in VOCs and labeled free from lead and phthalates Metal components with powder-coated or non-toxic finishes Plastics that are BPA-, phthalate-, and PVC-free Are GREENGUARD Gold Certified Plastic-Free Toys, Teethers, and Pacifiers Toys, teethers, and pacifiers are items that go directly into your baby’s mouth. Many caregivers opt for products made from natural, non-toxic materials, such as: Untreated or sealed solid wood (like maple or beech) finished with food-grade oils or water-based sealants Food-grade silicone, which is inert, heat-resistant, and free from BPA, phthalates, and PVC Organic cotton or wool for soft toys, ideally GOTS-certified and frequently washed to reduce bacteria buildup It is usually best to choose toys, teethers, and pacifiers that are free of PVC, BPA, phthalates, and synthetic dyes (unless they're labeled as non-toxic or water-based). Clean, Eco-Friendly Diaper Supplies Diapers, wipes, and creams are used throughout the day and come into frequent contact with your baby’s sensitive skin. Because of this, many caregivers choose options made with fewer synthetic additives or harsh preservatives. For cloth diapering, consider: Organic cotton or bamboo fabrics PUL liners that are free from phthalates and PFAS For disposable diapers, look for versions that are: Chlorine-free and fragrance-free Made with plant-based or biodegradable materials Baby wipes should contain minimal ingredients—ideally 99% water—and avoid alcohol, parabens, and added fragrance. Non-toxic diaper creams are usually made with non-nano zinc oxide and avoid petroleum, mineral oil, and paraffins. Non-Toxic Baby Bath Essentials Bath products are absorbed through the skin and often contain fragrances, foaming agents, and preservatives. You can opt for plant-based formulas and textiles made from gentle materials that are less likely to irritate your baby’s skin, hair, and eyes, including: Baby shampoos and washes that are free from sulfates, parabens, synthetic dyes, and added fragrance Washcloths and towels made from organic cotton or bamboo, which are soft, absorbent, and gentle on the skin Baby bathtubs made from BPA- and PVC-free plastic Non-Toxic Baby Carriers and Strollers Baby carriers and strollers are made from a variety of materials, including fabrics, plastics, metals, and foams. Products that don't have added chemical treatments or synthetic finishes can be a great addition to your baby registry. Look for: Strollers free from PVC, PFAS, and added flame retardants Canopies with UPF-rated fabric for sun protection Handles and straps made from materials labeled free of phthalates Non-Toxic High Chairs High chairs are made from a combination of plastic, wood, and fabric. Since they’re used during feeding, many families look for options that are easy to clean and made from materials without chemical treatments. Look for things like: BPA-free plastic or solid wood construction Water-based finishes and PVC-free padding Removable, dishwasher-safe trays to reduce reliance on chemical cleaners Tips for Building Your Non-Toxic Baby Registry Prioritize Items That Touch Your Baby Most: Focus on products that you’ll use frequently or place closest to your baby, such as car seats, mattresses, bottles, and clothing. These have the greatest potential for exposure and are worth the investment in non-toxic versions. Start with Research, Not Hype: Begin by learning which materials and chemicals to avoid, and which certifications to prioritize. Understanding these basics helps you filter out greenwashing, which is when a company markets its products as environmentally friendly or safe without meeting the rigorous standards or certifications that back up those claims. Balance Idealism with Practicality: Not everything has to be organic or toxin-free to be safe. Focus on upgrading the essentials and don’t feel pressured to replace every item. It's okay to mix high-priority non-toxic items with budget-friendly basics. Include a Note to Share Your Priorities: Briefly explain on your registry why you’re choosing non-toxic products. This helps gift-givers understand your values and may encourage them to contribute meaningfully. Conclusion Choosing non-toxic baby products is one way to reduce your baby’s exposure to certain chemicals during an important stage of growth. While every item doesn’t need to meet a specific standard, starting with high-contact essentials—like bottles, car seats, and bedding—can make a meaningful difference. Want more parenting tips and advice? Visit the Chicco Baby Talk Blog!