Articles on Diapers, Bedding, Natural Nursery, Under The Nile Organic Clothing

A great article on cloth has just been done. Go see it at http://pages.ivillage.com/carosyrup/diaperingdecisions.html

Diapers! Disposable or Cotton?

Plus… How to set up a cloth diaper system

Your baby will spend about 25,000 hours in diapers and need about 6,000 diaper changes during the first years of life. Your decision to use disposable or cloth diapers, will have a great impact on your baby’s comfort and health, and on your peace of mind and finances. The 90’s cloth diaper systems are so easy to use (no soaking, no pins).

Chemicals in Disposables

Since your baby will spend so much time in diapers, let’s take a closer look at disposable diapers. On the market since the early 60’s, the disposable diaper changed from a plastic diaper with a lot of paper fluff to a diaper constructed of a waterproof plastic outer layer, an absorbent pad with super absorbent chemicals, and an inner liner. The super absorbent chemical, sodium polyacrylate, absorbs and holds fluids in the diaper. This chemical has been linked to toxic shock syndrome, can cause allergic reactions, and is lethal to cats if inhaled. Death has occurred from ingestion of just 5 grams of this chemical. Pediatric journals contain reports of this chemical sticking to babies’ genitals. When the baby’s skin gets wet, this super absorber can poll fluids form baby’s skin. Dioxin, the most toxic of all cancer-linked chemicals, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), is a byproduct of bleaching paper. Even in the smallest detectable quantities, dioxin has been known to cause liver disease, immune system suppression, and genetic damage in lab animals. Dyes found in some disposables are known to damage the central nervous system, kidneys, and liver. The Food & Drug Administration (FDA) received reports that fragrances caused headaches, dizziness, and rashes. Problems reported to the Consumer Protection Agency include chemical burns, noxious chemical and insecticide odors, reports of babies pulling disposables apart and putting pieces of plastic into their noses and mouth, choking on tab papers and linings, plastic melting onto the skin, and ink staining the skin. Plastic tabs can also tear skin, and disposables may contain wood splinters.

In 1987, the Sunday Democrat and Chronicle published news about the new Pampers Ultra. The new gel they used caused severe skin irritations, oozing blood from perineum and scrotal tissues, fever, vomiting, and staph infections in babies. Employees in Pampers factories suffered from tiredness, female organ problems, slow-healing wounds and weight loss. According to the Journal of Pediatrics, 54% of one-month old babies using disposable diapers had rashes, 16% had severe rashes. A survey of Procter & Gamble’s own studies show that the incidence of diaper rash increases from 7.1 percent to 61 percent with the increased use of throwaway diapers, great for manufacturers of diaper rash medicines. Widespread diaper rash is a fairly new phenomenon that surfaced along with disposable diapers. Reasons for more rashes include allergies to chemicals, lack of air, higher temperatures because plastic retains body heat, and babies are probably changed less often because they feel dry when wet.

Disposables and Public Health & Landfill Concerns

About 5 million tons of untreated body excrement, which may carry over 100 intestinal viruses, is brought to landfills via disposables. This may contribute to groundwater contamination and attract insects that carry and transmit diseases. In 1990, 18 billion disposables were thrown into United States landfills. Is it wise to use 3.4 billion gallons of oil and over 250,000 trees a year to manufacture disposables that end up in our already overburdened landfills? These disposables are not readily biodegradable. The paper must be exposed to air and sun to decompose. Thirty percent of a disposable diaper is plastic and is not compostable. Even if the rest of the diaper could be composted, these plants could only handle 400 of the 10,000 tons of diapers tossed in landfills EACH DAY, assuming they didn’t have to process any other compostable garbage. Biodegradable diapers have cornstarch added to the plastic to break it into tiny pieces. The pieces still end up in landfills.

Inaccurate and Misleading Information from Disposables Manufacturers

It’s the late 1980’s, people are becoming concerned about the environment. Disposables are on the decline. The disposables manufacturers fight back. Articles and advertisements say disposables are OK. Many mothers, glad to hear that and relieved of guilt, switch to disposables. Disposables manufacturers say energy usage is the same for cloth or disposables, but the fact is that throwaways use five times more energy than reusables.

Cloth Diapers Are Easy, Simple, Inexpensive

Diapers do not need to be presoaked, I don’t even rinse mine. Just dump solids in toilet, if it does not fall out then put in hamper, the washing machine will do the rest. No pins are necessary. Two loads of laundry a week.

Here’s how to start using cloth…

You have a lot of options available through several mail order companies. There are diaper and cover combinations or all-in-one diapers which are as easy as disposables. The representatives at these companies can assist in your choice. The initial cost runs from $200-$300 to get started and will take you through the first year or so. The following systems will take you completely through potty training. Disposables will cost around $2200 during the same time period. With the systems below you could save more than $1600.

Some total system combinations:

Our close as disposables system Kushies Ultras or Bumkins All-In-One Diapers with optional Diaper Doublers for even more absorbency:

• A. 4 velcro covers newborn    (fit snug on those newborn legs)
• 3-4 dozen diaper doublers      (use inside those newborn covers, then in all-in-one diapers)
• 20 Infant Kushies or Medium Bumkins 
• 20 Toddler Kushies or Large Bumkins 
• (if using only Kushies Classics you will need 1 Small and 1 Large Wool Diaper Cover)
• Total cost is $549 including detergent (we recommend our Bi-O-Kleen since it contains citrus and natural enzymes to sanitize diapers, I also use it on all MY laundry)

• B. 3 dozen rectangular or hourglass diapers untreated
• 4 diaper covers each size nb, s, m, l
• Total cost is $390 including detergent

Our most Natural System:

• C. 20 infant Absorb it all  snap diapers
• 20 toddler Absorb it all snap diapers
• 1 Wool diaper cover small and large
• 3 nylon pull on pants each size s, m, l
• Total cost is $598 including detergent

• D. 20 Grow with me snap diapers
• 4 diaper covers each size s, m, l
• Total cost is $390 including detergent

All these systems can be found at Ecobaby www.ecobaby.com, or mail-order catalog 1-888-ECOBABY, 1-800-596-7450, or 1-619-562-9606.

References

1. The Landbank Consultancy Limited, "A Review of Procter & Gamble’s Environmental Balances for Disposable and Re-usable Nappies" (18 July 1991).

3. B. Gaunder and E. Plummerm "Diaper Rash: Managing and Controlling a Common Problem in Infants and Toddlers," J Pediatr Health Care 1 (1987): 26-34.

A great article on cloth has just been done. Go see it at http://pages.ivillage.com/carosyrup/diaperingdecisions.html

ALL ABOUT OUR BEDDING

WHY ORGANIC?   We spend about a third of our life in bed. Most of us are sleeping surrounded by numerous toxins. Our bodies and brains are trying to repair and replenish. A natural, healthy sleeping area will allow our bodies to efficiently prepare for the next day.

WHAT's wrong with our bedding?   Most bedding contains chemicals such as formaldehyde, toxic dyes, vinyls and plastics, foam, and other chemical residues. We breathe these in throughout the night.

With the onslaught of numerous chemicals daily, it becomes even more important to purify any part of our environment which we have control over. Organic, chemical-free bedding is comfortable and practical. Cotton is easy to care for and our natural chemical-free organic wool resists bacteria and those nasty dust mites. Many people suffering from headaches, fatigue, respiratory problems, memory problems, insomnia, allergies, asthma and more are aggravated or caused by synthetic bedding. There is much data on the benefits of natural bedding and even more on the hazards of "traditional" (used for part of this century) bedding.

Care of natural bedding. Same as other beds. Wash outer covering if it becomes soiled. Throw sheets in washer and dryer. Fluff comforters on air cycle in dryer.

Ecobaby has a full line of mattresses, futons, pillows, comforters, mattress pads, sheets, comforter covers, blankets-all in several colors and fabrics of organic cotton and natural wool.

NATURAL NURSERY

Where the baby sleeps is where the baby spends most of her day. So it should be the safest, most breathable place in the home. To start with, if you are in an older home, check for lead paint that chips and creates dust. This could be the walls, or furniture. If the paint is before 1978, you should be concerned. Do not try to remove yourself, too much dust. Baby furniture should be hard wood, and coated with water-based polyurethane sealer, or is hand rubbed with beeswax and tung oil. Laminated wood, pressed wood, chipboard or particle board release formaldehyde. Choose natural fabrics, synthetic fabrics like nylon and polyester don't breathe as well as natural fabrics and they trap heat and contribute to rashes. Permanent press fabrics or those treated with other chemical finishes release formaldehyde even after washing. The typical new crib mattress, stuffed with polyurethane foam and covered with fire and water-proffed synthetic material, emits volatile organic compounds including toluene. Mattresses stuffed with convertioanlly grown cotton can off gas formaldehyde. Opt for crib mattresses covered and stuffed with undyed cotton or wool not treated with pesticides or disinfectants. Use naturally waterproof wool mattress pads. Disposables made of paper, plastic and absorptive acrylic gels clog landfills. Use cloth diapers, wash with unperfumed laundry soaps, no chlorine, no fabric softeners(which actually make fabric less absorbent), use white distilled vinegar to soften fabric, inhibit mold and mildew, reduce excess soap left on fabric. To remove chemical fabric finishes, fill a washing machine with water, add one cup of baking soda nad soak new clothing and bedding overnight, agitating the machine occasionally. Wash and dry at least three times before using, adding 1/4 cup of baking soda to the detergent int he first two washes and 1/2 cup vinegar to the final wash.

All About Under The Nile Organic Clothes

Under the Nile is a very unique company.  We believe that natural apparel for children
should start from the under to the outer, hence the name "Under the Nile". Therefore our collection of children's apparel starts
with the basic essential such as underwear and undershirts.

Under the Nile is also unique because of the fact that we use organic Egyptian cotton, which is know throughout the world for
being the most durable and softest cotton available. 

Not only do we take pride in using organic cotton, but we are also honored to produce our product responsibly for the
environment and our workers.  The farm and manufacturing area for Under the Nile is located in the delta of Egypt. Here, our
manufacturer has built a community based on healthy living for both the workers and the environment.  On the premises there is
a schoolhouse for the workers' children, a hospital, and a cafeteria that serves three free organic meals a day.  A holistic
approach is practiced in every day life and in working activities. 

Every caution is taken to assure that the environment stays clean of toxins from the time the ground is prepared for the
cottonseed, to the spinning and weaving of the cotton into yarn.  Every detail for Under the Nile's production is attended to. 
This includes 100 % cotton thread for sewing, metal parts free of nickel, and even a cotton neck label.

Come behind the scenes with Under the Nile and find out how our cotton is grown, woven, and sewn.

Agriculture

Under the Nile uses cotton according to the organic guidelines for agriculture without the
use of synthetic fertilizers or pesticides.  Only compost made from plant and manure is used as a natural fertilizer.  Special caring
methods without any chemicals were developed for the cotton.  For example, pheromone and water traps are used against fleas,
worms and caterpillars.

The cultivation of cotton without pesticides or insecticides ensures that the cotton remains 100% organic while protecting the
health of the people working on the cotton fields.  Only the mature cotton is carefully picked by hand, thus the best quality is
achieved.  AS Egyptian cotton has very long fibers, it can be manufactured into especially soft fabrics, which in return translates
into extremely gentle, comfortable, long wearing clothing for your child.

The Center of Organic Agriculture in Egypt regularly controls and certifies the compliance with these regulations.


Ginning and Spinning

After the harvest the raw cotton is brought to the ginning mill where the cottonseeds are carefully separated from the fibers.  The
cotton is combed and pressed to big bales.  Then it is spun in one of the most modern spinning mills of Egypt.

Due to the different preparing steps of cleaning, mixing and combing, as well as the careful spinning itself, an evenly high quality is
reached.  A comparably high quality is only reached in less than 5% of all yarn in the world.

Dyeing and Knitting

The cotton yarn then goes through the dyeing and knitting process.  As a matter of principal, Under the Nile's organic textiles are
not bleached.  Some are left in the natural tone of the raw cotton.  However, as clothes also express joy of life and natural
individuality, colored textiles complete our collection.  The dyeing of the yarn or the material is done with metal free colors, not
containing any harmful chemicals.  Our aim during the dyeing process is to use only such agents and processes that are
environmentally sound and, at the same time, ensure the high quality standard.  All the textiles that we use are evenly dyed and
do not fade out even after heavy use and many washes.  In order to get the very soft and tender material for Under the Nile's
collection; the cotton yarn is handled with great care during the knitting or weaving process.  All auxiliaries used, must either be
recyclable or be biodegradable to at least 90%.  For example, for the weaving process only natural starch is used.

Washing and finishing

The cotton fiber is heavily stretched during the process of knitting, weaving and dyeing, and it will shrink again when put into
water.  To anticipate this shrinkage the material is prewashed on the premises.   By means of sanforizing, a mechanical process,
the shrinkage is minimized to a maximum of 4% for all our clothing.  During the entire process of dyeing and finishing we take
great care to only use such methods, which do not affect the natural features of the cotton like its high respiration activity, which
is very important to your child's skin.

TRIMS AND ACCESSORIES

Unlike the conventional textile production, Under the Nile completes its line of organic apparel by using real cotton threads,
buttons made of wood, bone, or mother of pearl, and metal parts free of nickel.

At Under the Nile we take pride in protecting your children and our environment.  We look forward to giving you a safe, natural
way to clothe your child.

Problems and solutions found by parents

Ear Infections

If your baby or child is pulling on their ears often or complaining that they hurt, they may have an ear infection. Use an otoscope and look in child's ear for irritation if you feel you need to confirm an infection. Most infections are viral and can be treated at home with a simple remedy. If you suspect it is bacterial (pus will be present) you should see a doctor immediately. Usually harmless but painful, viral ear infections often follow a cold or flu or swimming. To rid a child of an infection, buy Mullein oil at a health store or make your own from pure olive oil and garlic. Place child on their side and put several drops in ear. Hold warm wet compress over ear to prevent oil from dripping onto surface and to help blockages drain. You can also massage area just under ear, you may feel lumps of mucous under the skin. This should cause an almost immediate reduction in pain. After about 15 minutes you should see some improvement and often only 1 treatment is necessary to rid child of problem. Children who have recurrent infections should be watched so infections can be noticed and caught very early so as not to hamper with auditory learning. I am not a doctor but research and my own experience has taught me this simple remedy which has always worked for me. Ask your doctor what they think if you wish.

Fevers

Children and Babies get fevers for many reasons. Most often it is caused by a virus entering the body. The body tries to fight the virus by heating up thus killing most viruses. Artificially lowering fevers with medicine may not always be the best route. Other options are to let the fever run it's course while hydrating child/baby with clear fluids and abstaining from potential allergens and mucous-causing foods. Chicken soup is therapeutic due to the warmth of the broth and is nutritious. Vegetarians can use a vegetable broth the same way. A child who runs a low grade fever of 100-102 may have trouble fighting the virus because the fever is not high enough. You can warm them up in a warm bath and more covers. This is the advice given by many enlightened physicians and alternative medical practitioners. For babies a lower fever is usually more efficient and may need to see a doctor at a lower temperature. It is not horrifying if your child's fever temporarily rises for a couple of hours to 105 or so. High temperatures help kill the virus. A child who has seizures at 105 will usually have seizures at lower temperatures too so they just need to be watched. Check with an up to date informed doctor as to your options for fevers. Many still recommend artificially lowering the fever which has been argued to cause the illness to last longer. Again, I am not a doctor, but I have done my research. My son at age 5 had a fever of 107.5. I panicked and called 911. When paramedics arrived his fever was at 106 and upon arriving at the hospital 30 minutes later he was well. He was, however, never lethargic or seemed all that sick. My anthroposophic doctor said that panic was not necessary and a high fever for such a short time is not generally a problem. Lethargic babies and children may need to be treated differently, this information is in relation to primarily healthy children with a cold, flu or other simple virus. See the book "Smart Medicine" for more information.

Teething or Irritability

Babies experience undetermined fussiness for many reasons. First they could be teething, teeth could be pushing on gums even in newborns, causing pain. They also may be tired but unable to fall asleep from too much external stimulation or from overtiredness. A bored baby may also cry. This is different from a gassy or colicky baby which will often arch the back when crying. I have found a very common and safe solution is teething tablets which are lactose-based and are available from many stores including drugstores, or Camilia, a solution in a purified water base especially for very young infants which is available at some natural food stores. Or call Boiron at 1-800-258-8823 for a location near you.

Colic or Irritability

Many babies will fuss and cry while arching their back. This is often caused by gassiness or colic. Many times it is just from a food that the mother ate or often from formula ingredients. One solution I have found very helpful is to give the baby Cocyntal in a purified water base available at natural food stores or call Boiron at 1-800-258-8823 for a location near you. I have found this helps within 15 minutes. See what foods cause this and avoid that food or switch from formula to breastfeeding for your baby. This can be done even after milk has disappeared. Contact La Leche League for help with this. Most common gassy foods are broccoli, chocolate, milk products, cabbage.

Diaper Rash

Most prominent in the late 20th century due to the extensive use of disposable diapers. Diaper rash may be caused by chemicals in disposable diapers, pore blockage from lotions, cremes, etc. used on babies to protect their skin from that chemical, fabric softeners, perfumes and chemicals used in the washing or drying of cloth diapers, food allergies, or changing too infrequently. Solutions are to let the baby air out, put calendula gel on red sore skin, or put aloe on severely sore and broken skin, and change that diaper. Even parents who are diligent with changing baby may find that they have a sensitive baby who reacts to foods and pollutants with a diaper rash. Antibiotics may also cause rashes and yeast infections. This may also occur after vaccination due to the change of numerous functions in the body.

Skin Problems and Eczema

Many skin problems in babies are due to environment or foods. Their are so many impurities in our culture that it is no wonder that children have so many skin problems. Babies are able to be cleansed with simple water or a pure natural soap only occasionally. Lotions, creams, oils can all contribute to skin problems. Toxins in the house may also cause serious skin problems. Molds, cigarette smoke (even residue), carpet, paints and new baby items all containing chemicals may be the culprit. Sensitive babies should wear only organic cotton clothes if possible, even if you can only buy 2 outfits and wash often or no clothes and lay on a pure blanket. You need to find the source of the problem though. Watch what they are eating, and playing with. Make a chart if you have to. Sometimes the solution can be as simple as getting rid of a single thing in their environment. Remember, even cotton clothes have chemicals on them so buy organic if you can. Calendula gel will help with healing but can be painful (if it contains alcohol) on open skin.

Head Lice

The over-the-counter brands of medicines for head lice contain pesticides. YUK! Some studies indicate that they may cause brain damage. I found a simple solution. Pure tea tree oil applied to damp hair and wrapped in a towel overnight got rid of my infestation in my long thick hair with just one application. I was impressed. Easy to obtain, strong smelling but effective and natural. Why not give it a try, and don't forget to boil those pillowcases.