Sustainability during pregnancy
With the baby bump, many expectant mothers also feel the need to make everything cozy and comfortable for the little family – the so-called nesting instinct. But there are simply too many beautiful baby products! It's not that difficult to also consider the environment. With a few tricks, you can make your pregnancy more sustainable. LILLYDOO Mama Lisa has shared her best tips on this.
Lisa lives with her husband and their two children in a self-built house on a farm in Lower Bavaria. On her Instagram account she shares decor, interior inspiration, and everyday life with children.
Has your role as a (future) mother influenced your attitude towards sustainability?
Yes, definitely! I want my children to have a good, livable future. Even during my pregnancy, I felt the responsibility towards this little being inside me. Every mother only wants the best for her child, and I also have felt from the very beginning that it is my duty to act sustainably, even during pregnancy.
Which purchases do you not want to do without during pregnancy? And are there sustainable alternatives?
Comfortable clothes were very important to me. There are many sustainable alternatives available. I personally mainly looked for pieces that I could continue to wear after pregnancy – beautiful skirts and dresses that look great even without a baby bump! This way, the items don't hang unused in the closet after a few months, and every time I wear them, they remind me of these special months. Especially when the body changes rapidly within a short period, it’s also worth borrowing or buying second-hand – asking around among friends is, in my experience, worthwhile. ;) My tip: There are even special inserts for that ensure your favorite pieces still fit with a baby bump.
What would you advise parents who have concerns about the costs?
The most sustainable things are the ones you already have at home so always check what you might still be able to use. Buying second-hand is also always a good option. Otherwise, I always believe that quality pays off, especially high-quality items can be resold once they are no longer in use. There are great platforms like Vinted, where parents can both sell items they no longer need and browse for new ones.
How can I recognize sustainable baby clothing/toys? Are there specific certifications that serve as a guide?
Yes, the FSC label, for example, marks products made from wood from sustainable forestry. There are also shops that sell exclusively sustainable products.
Are there other things you forgo for sustainability reasons?
Yes! Whenever possible, we use, for example, a washable and reusable changing pad. Additionally, I specifically bought absorbent nursing bras to also save disposable nursing pads.
Thank you very much for sharing your tips and experiences with us, dear Lisa! Do you have three more good pieces of advice for expectant parents who want to make their pregnancy as sustainable as possible?
Of course:
Think carefully about what you really need.
Pay attention to quality so you don't have to buy twice.
Be open to sustainable alternatives.
Even during pregnancy, mindful consumption is a good way to enjoy the beautiful things of this unique time while still remaining as sustainable as possible. Many items can also be borrowed or bought second-hand here, which is gentle on the wallet. And if your baby, like Lisa's, already has an older sibling, you can involve them directly in the purchases – so the whole family learns something about sustainability together!
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