Much Ado About BambooThere’s much ado about bamboo these days and this is one bandwagon we definitely want to jump on. Bamboo is one of the fastest growing plants on the planet, and incidentally, one of the fastest growing trends in sustainability. Contrary to popular belief, bamboo is not a tree, but rather a wild grass that can be harvested approximately every four years. Thanks to its deep roots, bamboo does not need to be replanted, and thrives naturally--without the use of chemical pesticides, fertilizers, or water irrigation. In its raw form, bamboo combines lightness and flexibility with strength and durability. As a fiber, bamboo is soft, absorbent, naturally anti-bacterial, and wicks moisture away from the body. In a word, it’s perfect!
Here are some recommended bamboo products that you and your family will love!
Nurse
Bamboobino is a Vancouver-based company offering bamboo accessories for baby and mama. It was started by mom Sharon Chai and features such great products as bamboo nursing pads, hooded towels, crib sheets, and caps. The bamboo nursing pads are a favourite with our family, and offer a great alternative to disposables. Each pad is made with two outer layers of bamboo fleece and a middle layer of bamboo French terrycloth. These pads are much more absorbent, and at the same time, less bulky than their cotton counterparts. Just slip them discreetly into your bra and enjoy a dry night out on the town!
Win a pair: be the first member to e-mail me!
Wear
Vancouver mom and entrepreneur Amy Rogerson is the brains and talent behind Shirtseed. The line of baby, tot, and mama apparel is made from a blend of unbleached bamboo and organic cotton. Amy uses water-based and solvent-free dye in her printing to offer both high quality and sustainable garments. The current collection features prints of vintage bikes and trikes in celebration of self-propelled movement.
Play
German toy company HaPe (pronounced Hah-Peh) recently launched the world’s first bamboo collection of games and creative toys that immediately won the admiration of both kids and parents alike. These award-winning toys were designed with child development, safety, and sustainability in mind. With recent worries over chemicals in plastics, lead paint, and hundreds of recalled toys, the bamboo collection provides parents with a safer and greener alternative. Come on, get HaPe!
Feed
As we learn more of the dangers of plastics, we are slowly purging our evil BPA plastic bottles and replacing them with safer alternatives. While we’re at it, why not get rid of ALL plastic in the kitchen? You can start by transitioning to sustainable bamboo bowls and utensils from Bambu. These lightweight and stylish feeding accessories are designed specifically for tiny hands and tender mouths. Bamboo is stronger than wood, and the bowls are hand coiled, shaped, and finished with food-safe lacquer for a durable waterproof finish. A great eco-friendly feeding option that’s also affordably priced.
Bathe
Shoo-Foo is another Vancouver-based company that produces 100% bamboo towels, washcloths, and other bath accessories for babies and grown-ups. Ultra-soft and absorbent bamboo is an ideal choice for towels. It is also inherently anti-bacterial so you don’t have to worry about funky smells or scary things growing in your towel.
Change
Bamboozle diapers were first introduced by Tots Bots in Scotland but are now available through Bummis in Canada. These amazing all-in-one diapers consist of four layers of ultra-soft and breathable bamboo fabric. Bamboo fibers are not only more sustainable than cotton, but also up to 60% more absorbent. Exactly what you want in a diaper!
-- Sarah Simpson
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