Combining sustainability with the often stressful family routine— is that possible? Yes, it is, and it’s often not that difficult to make more environmentally friendly choices. Sarah, a LILLYDOO mom, shares how this can work from the very beginning and what a sustainable baby starter kit can look like.

Sarah's Basics for the initial equipment

Why is a sustainable setup important to you?
Are children important? And what do you pay special attention to?

When I buy anything for the children, I first pay attention to the materials and how it was made. Natural and renewable raw materials are important to me, as are manufacturing and production . I find it shocking that some garments have already been shipped around the world multiple times before reaching us end consumers. Finally, durability is very important to me. I look for natural materials and high-quality craftsmanship so that we only need to buy many items once and can ideally pass them on later.

The most sustainable approach is to consume as little as possible and to purchase only what is necessary from the very beginning.

What do you definitely consider essential for your initial equipment?

Anything that grows with your child is worth its weight in gold! There are many great products, like bodysuits or furniture, that grow with your child and can be used for longer periods. Our children's beds, for example, last for several years—from birth to kindergarten age. Personally, a children's blanket made of merino wool and good basics made of cotton, wool, and silk have been indispensable to me. These pieces can be worn regardless of the season and temperature, making them suitable for year-round use.

Eco-friendly shopping

And what can you confidently do without, in your opinion
to forego?

Too many clothes and unnecessary excess Toy . Of course
every mama and every papa want their little ones to lack nothing. But often it turns out that we buy far too much that, in hindsight, we didn’t need. This happened to us especially with our first child. But especially at the beginning, babies need their parents and lots of love.
The tenth sweater is completely unimportant.

What sustainable shopping tips do you have?

My tip is to also try used clothing items
to look for, or to borrow from girlfriends/boyfriends. Renting is also a great option. There are many offers to rent children's items, from clothing to strollers. If you're looking for something new, I like to browse small, owner-managed shops on the left and right, away from the big shopping options.

Where do you get your information about sustainability
with a baby?

I have explored various aspects of sustainability by reading many magazines and articles on the topic. My husband also enjoys reading reviews before we buy something new. I believe that in recent years, awareness of sustainable baby and children's products has grown, and anyone who wants to engage with it will find some options. In addition to magazine articles and social media, I especially trust the recommendations of other parents.

What would you advise parents who have concerns about
the costs?

My money-saving tip is to shop out of season . Additionally, I find that shopping secondhand or choosing borrowing options is always a sustainable and cost-effective choice. There are a variety of offers, and some concepts also combine sustainable new items with secondhand products.

Sustainability Seal

How can you recognize sustainable baby clothing and toys? Are there specific seals that serve as a guide?

In my opinion, the most transparent labels for clothing are the GOTS symbol (). Global Organic Textile Standard ), which stands for organic cultivation of raw materials and fair production for people and nature, and OEKO-TEX®. MADE IN GREEN by OEKO-TEX®, for example, guarantees that the tested textiles and leather articles are examined for harmful substances and produced under sustainable and socially responsible conditions
were produced. For products made of wool, the serves as the RWS Seal ( Responsible Wool Standard ), which certifies textiles produced in accordance with specific animal welfare criteria, as a guideline.

For toys, I think it's a bit more difficult. I personally mainly buy wooden toys, always paying attention to the FSC® certification notice . This stands for raw materials from responsibly managed forests and the
avoidance of controversial wood sources. It is also very important to ensure that toys are free from harmful chemicals such as BPA, phthalates, or PVC.

Give sustainably

Friends and family often want to bring expectant parents joy and contribute to the initial equipment. What can you advise those who prioritize sustainability?

I can only recommend that expectant parents
create wish lists or ask for vouchers . We communicated this clearly with our two children, and many people are even very grateful for it because they know the gifts will definitely bring joy. Some brick-and-mortar stores or online shops offer the option to leave wish lists in the store or virtually. My tip to gift-givers is: ask what is still needed or if there are any wishes. This way, you avoid wrong purchases, unnecessary exchanges, and confusion when choosing gifts.

Thank you very much for your tips and personal recommendations, dear Sarah! Is there anything else you would like to say about the topic or in general regarding sustainability and babies?

Less is more! Of course, there are infinitely many sweet clothing items and beautiful toys. But much of it is no longer noticed by the children after a short time and ends up in a box. Conscious consumption is the most sustainable approach, as it not only protects our planet but also our wallet.