You don't have to overhaul your entire cleaning routine at once. Start by replacing the most toxic products in your home, such as all-purpose cleaners, laundry detergents and dishwasher tablets, with natural alternatives. Look for eco-friendly cleaning products that are safe to use around children and pets and free from harsh chemicals that negatively affect the environment.
When shopping for cleaning products, read the labels carefully to ensure that the products are free from harsh chemicals such as parabens, SLS, and artificial fragrances. Look for products that are labelled as cruelty-free to ensure your clean home doesn’t come at the cost of animals suffering in testing labs. Choose plant-based natural ingredients that are biodegradable and therefore not harmful to aquatic life. This is especially important for products like fabric conditioners, laundry detergents and washing up liquid that eventually reach fresh waters.
Microfiber cleaning cloths are a great eco-friendly alternative to paper towels. They can be washed and reused multiple times, reducing the amount of waste you produce while using. They are incredibly handy when using products such as all purpose cleaners, limescale removers and other home-cleaning products. When you wash your microfiber cloths, place them inside a laundry bag designed to catch any microplastics to prevent them reaching our oceans. When dry, lift out any fibres and place them in the bin.
Paying attention to the packaging of cleaning products is just as important as finding non-toxic ingredients. So many cleaning product plastic bottles go to landfill every year, when they can be easily reused for many years to come. Instead, opt for reusable cleaning bottles that can be washed and used multiple times.
Make a cleaning schedule and stick to it. This will help you maintain a sustainable eco-cleaning routine. It will also help you to stay on top of your cleaning tasks and ensure that you have environmentally friendly cleaning products at hand.
The more you know about eco-friendly cleaning, the more motivated you will be to make the switch. Read books, blogs, and articles about sustainable living and green cleaning.
As with all your moves towards a sustainable lifestyle, don’t be too hard on yourself. By starting small and setting yourself achievable goals like reading labels, avoiding disposable packaging and planning ahead, you can easily transition into using natural cleaning products and methods that are better for the environment and your health and well-being.
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Using eco-friendly cleaning products is a simple yet effective way to reduce your environmental impact. Conventional cleaning products often contain aggressive chemicals that can harm both your health and the environment. Switch to natural cleaning products made from natural ingredients using non-toxic formulas to make your home a healthier and safer place to be.
When shopping, choose sustainable products made from materials that are plant-based, renewable or recyclable. Avoid single-use plastics and opt for reusable alternatives, such as cloth shopping bags, refillable water or dispenser bottles or bamboo utensils. If you are a new parent, look for eco nappies or cloth nappies. Choosing products made from recycled materials also helps reduce waste and conserve resources.
Reducing your energy consumption is another quick fix towards a smaller carbon footprint. Turn off lights and unplug appliances when not in use, and choose energy-efficient products that are designed to consume less power. Installing a programmable thermostat can also help you to save energy and reduce your heating and cooling costs.
Growing your own food is an excellent way to reduce your environmental impact and eat healthier. You can start with a small garden or even grow herbs and vegetables in pots. By growing your own food, you can avoid harmful pesticides and herbicides and reduce your carbon footprint by bypassing the transportation of food.
Supporting sustainable businesses is a simple yet effective way to promote sustainability. Brands that are B Corp certified are a good place to start, as the certification goes to businesses that prioritise people and planet over profits. At Kit & Kin, we are a B Corp certified family lifestyle brand committed to creating a better world for our children. All of our products are kinder to you and kinder to our planet. From eco-friendly baby products, such as eco nappies and biodegradable wipes, to natural skincare and eco cleaning products.
We hope that by starting your journey towards sustainability with these five simple steps you will find that a greener lifestyle does not have to be daunting or time consuming.
]]>At Kit & Kin, everything we do is based on creating products that are better for baby, better for our world, and give back. We're so honoured that parents around the world trust us to provide gentle, sustainable products that are as kind to the planet, as they are to your littles ones’ skin.
We've always been committed to protecting the world our children will grow up in and we’re over the moon to announce that we've just made taken another big step in the right direction:
Our eco nappy range has moved entirely to paper packaging, made from 100% recyclable paper - a fully renewable resource. We are the first UK brand within retail to make this change.
As a B Corp certified business, we are continuously looking for ways we can reduce our environmental impact even further and this move to paper packaging is just another stop on our journey.
We’d recommend creating a shortlist of your initial favourites and going from there - and don’t forget to consider things like initials and nicknames.
Source: Babycentre
‘Don’t judge a book by its cover’ simply doesn’t apply when it comes to gifting. We have asked our Kit & Kin Family how they make their presents shine sustainably. And what a resourceful bunch you are!
]]>Beautifully wrapped gifts will never go out of fashion. ‘Don’t judge a book by its cover’ simply doesn’t apply when it comes to gifting. Dressing up our presents creatively and beautifully makes the process of gifting more personal and meaningful. It can make the simplest of gifts the most memorable to our loved ones.
But does wrapping thoughtfully mean using the glossiest, glitteriest, most sequin-loaded wrapping paper? Probably not (microplastics alert!). More and more of us want to ensure we’re as kind to the planet as we are to our loved ones when gifting.We have asked our community, the Kit & Kin Family, how they make their presents shine sustainably. And what a resourceful bunch you are! Let’s clear up a couple of common questions before jumping into your top 5 tips!
Only the simplest styles of commercial wrapping paper (non-laminated, free from embellishments) can be recycled. To make matters worse, our customary addition of tape and ribbon immediately renders any paper non-recyclable.
But isn’t reusing better than recycling? It depends. Absolutely do reuse paper you’ve been given - you might as well prolong its life. Even small scraps can be used to create a collage or layered effect.
We always make our own wrapping paper by using the pictures my son had painted rather than throwing them away.
Vanessa
Many of you love to use kraft paper (or brown paper). Beautifully simple, it can be embellished with the help of stamps or by hand in black or white.
We get plain, recyclable, brown paper and decorate it with stamps. My children love to colour the stamps in.
Frances
Others suggested using pages of pretty calendars, which we think is such a sentimental way of remembering the year. Same goes for newspaper or magazine pages, which many of you like to use. (Doesn’t sound pretty? Make sure you read tip number 2!) Unless your calendars are laminated, these crafty gift wraps can be recycled or used to keep that cosy Christmas fire going.
There are so many beautiful ways to decorate recycled and recyclable paper with natural, biodegradable materials. Use biodegradable jute twine to attach slices of dried citrus fruit, plants, twigs, holly, berries, pine, cinnamon, foliage - you name it.
I use a flower or sprig of a herb or lavender.
Rebecca
Plain gift bag filled with presents
If you have a shopping lover in your household, it’ll be nearly inevitable to accumulate an array of branded gift boxes, draw-cord bags, hard-wearing carrier bags. These make excellent long-life gift packaging. Even sustainable filling materials can be surprisingly beautiful. We use wood shavings in our skincare gift boxes. Their natural texture lends itself to autumnal and Christmassy creations. Be creative. Add personal touches and/or cover up any branding with creations by your little one or yourself. Decorate as per tip 2 - you’re good to go.
We wear our clothes countless times and so can your presents - if you use Furoshiki wrapping cloths. These Japanese beauties are becoming more and more common on the high street and online - and we could NOT be more excited! Alternatively, you can buy any kind of sustainable fabric that will last for generations. There are plenty of gorgeous patterns to choose from that can bring your loved ones joy again and again.
I love using fabric, sometimes I print/paint some especially so they can be used as tea towels or muslin cloths.
Nicole
Now that you’re all set for wrapping your gifts sustainably, let’s find you something sustainable to wrap, shall we? At Kit & Kin, we are known for making the most accredited eco nappy on the planet (and definitely the cutest!), but did you know about our organic babywear and certified natural skincare? And what’s more, your present will help protect acres of rainforest! If you are preparing for baby’s first Christmas, have a look at this reel for present ideas from our community that will grow with baby or be passed on for generations. Happy wrapping!
]]>As you know, when we launched back in 2017, we wanted to build a brand that helps to make the world a better place, putting environmental and social responsibility at its core. That’s why this validation means so much to us personally, as it recognises Kit & Kin as a leader in the global movement to create an inclusive, equitable, and regenerative economy.
We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved in just five years, including:
And of course, we have you to thank for your loyalty! It’s difficult to put into words how much we appreciate each and every one of our amazing customers who’ve made this all possible. Your choice really does make a difference.
To find out more about B Corp certification and what it means, click here.
Thank you!
Emma & Chris
]]>That’s why we have asked 11 interior design Instagrammers to share their favourite quick and actionable tip that will make the nursery your new favourite room in the house.
Which hack is your favourite? Give it a go and don’t forget to tag the Instagrammer and us at @kitandkinuk so that we can share your creations!
It may seem daunting but painting your own mural for your child’s space means you will create something that means so much more to you and your little one every time you walk into the room. You have nothing to lose, if you don’t like it you can always paint over. But if you love it you will have created something you're proud of and that no one else has! In the below reel I am sharing with you my simple step by step instructions, so what are you waiting for? If you give it a go, I would love to see what you create!
When designing your baby’s nursery, you’ll want to create a space that is relaxing and tranquil, so you’ll need to think about your colour palette - I personally find calming pastels work great in nurseries.
Below are three colour schemes that look amazing in a nursery setting:
Once you’ve decided on your main colour scheme, you can start to think about the style and colour furniture you want to use. I prefer to keep the furniture neutral, using whites and natural wood finishes then you can follow that through to your accessories for example if your cot has beautiful natural wooden detailing, pick that up also with things like photo frames and shelves to give a coordinated look.
Next is the fun best part! Dressing the room with beautiful accessories it’s a good idea to keep to your main colour scheme adding in one or two accent colours.
There are so many gorgeous shops that sell decor for babies’ nurseries - from prints to wooden decor. Picture ledges, hanging rails and shelves work so well in nurseries for displaying all the gorgeous things, have fun with your accessories.
Like many of us I am just obsessed with the whole wall panelling trend! So much so that it features in every room in my house!
My favourite room that includes panelling is my son’s nursery! We wanted the nursery to be a traditional, serene woodland theme. The traditional features we have added are wallpaper, coving, ceiling rose, column radiator and of course panelling!
The panelling in our nursery is a shaker style with a thick picture rail shelf on top. To create the panelling we used cut-down MDF sheets. Your local timber merchant or DIY store should be able to do this for you. Just make sure you know the height and depth you want and how many batons you will need.
We panelled the entire room so we needed a few. We chose to panel 3 quarters of the way up leaving a quarter to add wallpaper. A question I get asked a lot is how we created the picture ledge on top as it’s not a standard picture rail that you can purchase.
To create the picture ledge we used door architrave and a strip of wood sat on top. We used 4cmx2cm but you could use whatever thickness, depending on how thick you would like your picture rail. To soften the edge we chamfered the wood to give it a smooth finish.
To fit the batons and picture rail to the wall we used a pin gun/nail gun, but you could also use a no nails adhesive glue. To fill in any joints you can use wood filler or decorators caulk depending on the depth of the joint.
I know a lot of people question how long panelling will stick around for and how damaging it can be if you were to remove it. In my opinion it’s been around and is going to be around for a long time. Traditional never goes out of style!
Spice racks are my #1 hack. They can be used on small walls to create an open wardrobe, as well as being able to add decor pieces onto - a cute photo frame with your baby scan picture is such a nice personal touch. I always love to theme mine and change them up seasonally!
Around the time I found out I was pregnant again, I first looked at Sophia’s room and carefully thought out how I could visually merchandise clothes, toys and props in a small space. Having these shelves absolutely harmonised the small space next to the window and I embrace it each morning when I open the bedroom door. They also allowed us to make use of each existing wall in the bedroom as a different creative point.
I am forever changing and evolving the styling here; swapping sentimental pieces, amendments to colour pallets and little outfits all based on how creative I feel or interchangeably between seasons.
And what is even better still, is that these were an absolute bargain and quite possibly one of the top IKEA hacks out there. These “shelves” are in fact spice racks and retail at around £4 per piece, which is amazing and shows that you can achieve a look to a room that looks so well stylised / expensive without breaking your bank balance!
Like many homes in the UK, we don't have an additional room to act as a playroom for Hugo. So when I was planning his nursery, I knew that I wanted to allow the room to easily transition into a toddler room by adding in accessories. As he's grown, become more mobile and more playful and curious, we've had to adapt spaces in the home to work for us all. Here's a few tips based on what we did:
Work with the space you have
As Hugo began sitting and crawling, we found ourselves spending more time playing in his nursery, which prompted a reshuffle. I'd originally placed the cot in the middle of a long wall with no fixtures above it and space either side whilst he was small. Then, by pushing the cot to one side I created a small play corner for Hugo.
Don't overload it
When we first created the nursery, we didn't overload it. We opted for the Mamas and Papas Oxford range in white, a timeless style which will grow with him due to its generous size, adding in some greenery, and a handful of neutral accessories like rattan plant pots, shelving and soft accessories to warm and soften the space.
Change through accessories
By adding in some fun muted colours in bunting, prints, shaped cushions, a patterned playmat, books and a floor cushion it created a really fun little corner.
Quiet toys and fun storage
We also added in fun shaped baskets such as the Cam Cam bunny basket and Ferm Living Kids Pear basket. These add character to the room and act as handy storage to tidy away the few toys we keep in there on a night. With a quick reshuffle and a handful of new accessories we created a space which felt completely different and functions much better for him as a toddler.
I love adapting spaces, and it shows it doesn't have to be a big change or expensive.
From the moment I found out I was pregnant I started dreaming of nursery ideas. After we found out everything was OK at the 20 week scan I threw myself into researching. I spent many a night scrolling Pinterest and Instagram for the most beautiful nurseries and finally fell in love with the nautical theme. We live close to the coast and spend a lot of time waking the dog on the beach so it felt perfect.
I knew I wanted a statement wallpaper or mural for the nursery and looked at many different sites. The wave print we finally decided on was from @etsy, it was self adhesive so no need for messy wallpaper paste. The contrasting patterned wallpaper not only looks great but we found James can actually focus on it easily which can apparently encourage vision development. We added further decoration through coastal themed prints, again from Etsy, and cute sea creature soft toys from Jellycat and BigStuffed.
We’re so pleased with the final look of the nursery and it has such a calming vibe (much needed during the early witching hours!).
Personally, when searching for the perfect wallpaper I would choose something enjoyable for the little ones. Anything with a pattern such as spots or stripes for newborns and then something more entertaining like a jungle scene or an animal theme for toddlers.
“Hygge” is something that you feel – it can be an atmosphere or an experience rather than being about things. Home is where my heart is and before children my home was my sanctuary (it still is but bear with me…). It was that calming space to retreat into after a hard day at work.
Introducing Barney into the fold, I envisaged chaos (happy chaos of course), piles of washing, nappies, books, toys thrown here, there and everywhere and most fundamentally, the loss of my preferred interior décor style. Some of that is just the reality of parenting and we have embraced it with open arms but I really wanted to create spaces in our home that incorporated Barney’s corners for play and rest but that didn’t fundamentally impede on our Hygge.
It uses Scandinavian themes throughout. So neutral colours, natural textures, blankets, rugs, personalisation but a feeling of consistency, relaxation and calm throughout the whole of our home.
We have incorporated Barney’s play “room” into our kitchen/dining room – we managed to reconfigure the space to utilise a part of the room that sits in front of our bi-folding doors. I imagined lovely summer afternoons watching Barney play and going in and out of the house freely so I had to make his play space work right there! Hygge is whatever you feel it is for you but here I will share my top tips for ensuring fluid interior styling through your home even with bambinos:
Consistency
Stick to the theme you have in the rest of your home! Identify the colours you have used and the textures you love and repeat that in your children’s spaces, whilst making it fun! We have both a foam play mat and a jute rug to keep that flow of natural textures in each space as we have jute elsewhere in our home. We have also used the same paint colour on our wall panelling in the dining area and on the back wall of the play room – discreet touches of “same same” that just blends everything together so well.
Don’t forget your walls
Utilise walls for additional décor – educational resources like maps, personalised prints, animal heads, shelving, bunting and flags – we even have a stork hanging off the ceiling which just makes the room feel more spacious! The walls really allow you to get imaginative to make the space your children’s own.
DIY/Hacks
Don’t be afraid of DIY! If you are inspired by something on social media, you can absolutely execute it! I wanted to add a statement piece of décor in Barney’s play room that involved wall panelling in the shape of a house – I roped in a little bit of help but got stuck in and now the house is the heart of Barney’s play space. This type of thing will last for years to come because it is so neutral and blends perfectly with the rest of the décor in our kitchen/dining area.
House panelling inspired by @HelenaHomeStyle:
Support small
Choosing pieces which are handmade and that can be personalised fit so well into a play space or a bedroom as you can cherry pick colours/styles to fit into your theme (rattan lettering, wooden peg board, wooden signage).
Storage is king!
We personalised the infamous ‘Trofast’ unit from Ikea with organised labelling. We also LOVE crates and baskets. These also help with toy rotation which I absolutely love!
Prints are definitely on the top of my list when it comes to designing a room whether it be a nursery, a toddler room all the way through to an older kids room.
When choosing decor pieces for my little boy’s nursery I immediately started looking for prints to spruce up his feature wall with. When we transitioned the room into a toddler space, I wanted a mix of modern prints as well as educational eye catching prints. I found lots of different small businesses that offered these and I finally went for a gorgeous number print. We’re at the stage where we’re teaching numbers and of course the neutral colours fit in perfectly with his neutral decor throughout his room!
My top tip is to compliment different decor pieces with similar colours throughout your prints!
We don’t have too much space in Caleb’s room with it being the fourth bedroom in our house, but in this little corner above his cot we have gone for some wooden wall hooks, which I totally recommend and love!! Ours are from H&M Home and it literally takes 5 minutes to hang them! All you need are 2 screws and 2 wall plugs to ensure they are securely attached to the wall! My husband popped these up while I made sure it wasn’t squint! Something I absolutely love about them is you can quickly change up a space by styling it with different decor and clothing as and when you please! I love the simplicity of the look it creates and I especially like that I can hang different framed pictures, decorations and bits and pieces without nailing a million different holes into the wall!
I have chosen to hang these birch hooks above Caleb’s cot as it’s the perfect place for him to admire his little rainbow garland hanging above where he sleeps! Who else loves a neutral, minimalist styled nursery?
I decided to add floor to ceiling shelves in what would have been wasted and unused space - the fireplace alcove. This has given depth to the space, draws your attention to the height of the room, opening up the area, perfect for styling, all whilst adding a great storage solution.
And the best part is that the colourful accessories on the shelves make for a fun and vibrant nursery, which will easily grow with our little one as he gets older, simply by swapping out some pieces.
The fourth trimester describes a transitional period between birth and 12 weeks postpartum. It can be a challenging time during which your baby is adjusting to the world and you are adjusting to your baby.
It can help to think of the fourth trimester as two journeys woven together. The first journey is the postpartum journey and relates to you, the parents, the changes in your body, hormones and importantly in your emotional health.
The second journey relates to your baby and describes a period of major developmental changes, known as the postnatal period. Whilst the two are intertwined together and relate to the period after birth, for the purpose of this blog post I will focus on them as two separate journeys, to help you understand this extraordinary time better.
Whilst babies bring so much joy to their parents and unimaginable love, as a paediatrician I want you to know that YOU and your physical and emotional health are equally important. Many parents experience postnatal blues, anxiety and many other overwhelming emotions that can affect the way they bond with their baby.
I meet many parents that are experiencing birth trauma in those first few weeks after baby arrives. They haven’t processed the birth, particularly if it didn’t go as planned and struggle to understand why they feel the way they do.
Birth trauma can happen in the birthing parent or in their partner and it is imperative that once baby has arrived, you sit together and talk about what happened, what went well and what you might need help to understand.
Many hospitals now offer a service where you can discuss your birth and can help bring parents much needed comfort and closure to some of the trauma they have experienced. You can find more information about birth trauma at the Birth Trauma Association or Make Birth Better.
Baby blues
The first week of postpartum life brings with it ‘baby blues’ for many women. A change in hormones and the realisation that you have a new life to care for can be incredibly overwhelming and you may feel low, irrational, emotional and you may cry for no apparent reason. Baby blues are incredibly common and usually go away within a few weeks. Remember, not everyone feels intense joy or happiness after birth and that’s absolutely okay.
Postnatal depression
If you find that after a few weeks your feelings don’t go away or get worse, then this could be a sign of postnatal depression. 1 in 5 women experience postnatal depression. You are not alone!
Postnatal anxiety
Whilst a lot of focus is on baby blues and postnatal depression, a lot of mothers experience postnatal anxiety. Anxiety can manifest in many ways but commonly parents describe a sense of dread, a feeling of unease and inability to relax and being constantly on edge. They find it hard to discuss their negative feelings especially as they are ‘expected’ to feel happy and fine. They may worry about their own health, their baby’s health and that things have or may go wrong. Anxiety can be incredibly overwhelming and parents can experience intense panic attacks and very real physical symptoms.
Get help
Please always remember that many new parents experience some of these symptoms and you are not alone! Please speak to your health visitor, Midwife or GP as there is lots of help available.
There’s also a wealth of information and support on Maternal Mental Health Alliance and PANDAS for mothers who need support with their mental health and their families.
There are so many things one can expect in the postnatal period and it is impossible to go through them here. I will try to list the common things that MOST babies will experience.
Newborn feeding and weight loss
Your newborn baby’s tummy is surprisingly small, almost the size of their palm, and this means they will feed little and often. Some babies may nurse/bottle feed every 1.5-2h whilst others may go 3h between feeds. Most babies will lose weight once you bring them home and this is normal. Usually your baby will be weighed regularly in the first two weeks of life. It is normal to lose up to 10% of their birth weight in the first few days and most babies are back to their birth weight by 2 weeks of life.
It’s really important that your baby feeds regularly. If they are regularly falling asleep during feeds, having difficulties feeding or they’re losing weight, you should seek advice from either your midwife, a lactation consultation or your doctor.
Crying
Crying is developmentally normal for your baby and it’s important that as doctors and parents, we normalise it. On average, babies cry for 2-3h a day in the first 6 weeks of life! Normal crying follows a circadian rhythm which means it is often worse in late evenings and early morning. In other words, 70% of the crying happens between noon and midnight, and is often associated with inconsolable bouts, where nothing you try seems to console your little one.
Should I worry about my baby crying?
There is no right or wrong answer here. When you meet your baby, you will quickly learn their patterns. As a general rule, if your baby cries for more than 3 hours a day, for more than 3 days a week, over a period of 3 weeks, you need to get some help.
It’s also important that if you think your baby's crying has a pattern you seek help. Keeping a diary (if you can) can help identify when a baby is fussy and why. For example, if your baby is always upset after feeds or just before they poop then that might tell healthcare professionals something is going on!
All babies cry. It is a matter of fact. We also know mothers cry and fathers cry. Nobody should be crying alone. If you feel overwhelmed, please reach out for support.
Rashes
Most newborns will have some sort of skin rash when they are born. Reassuringly, most of these are nothing to worry about. I’ll walk you through some of the commonest ones:
1. Milia:
2. Nappy rash:
3. Erythema toxicum (this sounds a lot worse than it actually is!!):
4. Other common rashes include heat rash and stork marks.
A few tips to keep baby’s sensitive skin happy:
The most important thing to know about rashes is to seek urgent medical attention if:
Reflux
Reflux is a normal process and it occurs in 4 out of 10 babies. It is associated with bringing up milk shortly after a feed. For most babies, reflux will begin by about 8 weeks of age and resolve as the baby gets older. At around 4 months, reflux is usually at its worst, meaning it occurs several times a day and can cause babies upset. Reassuringly, 50/100 babies won’t have reflux at 6 months and 90 out of 100 babies will not have reflux by the time they reach their first birthday. Whilst reflux may be ‘normal’, having a very fussy or upset baby needn’t be. There are lots of things you can try to ease baby’s reflux.
Trust your parental instinct, if something isn't right, see a doctor. Not all babies with reflux need treatment and if your baby is diagnosed with reflux, your doctor will talk you through the options available to you.
Signs that your baby might have reflux:
Silent reflux:
This really isn’t a very helpful name! There is nothing silent about reflux, if your baby has reflux and is uncomfortable with it, trust me you'll know all about it!!
It’s called silent reflux, because there may not be any 'outward' symptoms such as posseting or difficulty feeding. Just irritability/frequent crying or fussiness.
Colic
Colic is a term that means different things to different people. The hallmark of colic is usually inconsolable bouts of crying, particularly in the evening. In my experience most if not ALL babies are ‘colicky’ at some point in the first few months of life.
Colics follow the same pattern as normal crying but there’s just more of it in an otherwise well baby. The ‘well baby’ is the most important part of that statement. This means that it is a diagnosis of exclusion.
As a doctor, it means I’ve taken a thorough history and exam to make sure nothing else is going on, before coming to this conclusion.
As a new parent, the information you receive about your baby can be incredibly overwhelming. Take it one step at a time. Sometimes babies need urgent medical attention and as parents it’s not always easy knowing what to do when.
Parents should ALWAYS see a doctor if their baby has any of the following:
This is not an exhaustive list. The most important thing is to trust your instinct. If you think something is not right, seek help. This can be via your midwife, health visitor, GP or even A&E if you think it’s urgent. As a paediatrician, I would much rather see a worried parent and reassure them, than not see one at all.
I hope you’ve enjoyed reading this blog post and it will help empower you to navigate the trials and tribulations of the fourth trimester. If you have any questions please feel free to reach out to me on my Instagram page TheMunchingMedic. I hold regular Q&As that my community find very useful and share frequent tips and trick on baby, child and adolescent health. Sending you love and solidarity on this incredible parenting journey. Kiran Dr Kiran Rahim |
We’re here to get rid of the noise and help you enjoy the most memorable shopping list of all! So that you can focus on what’s most important: celebrating this incredible milestone.
“Having the nappies ready to go was amazing. I’d bought two packs and we went through them so fast.” Sapphire M.
“We bought a nappy caddy and travel change mat which was great for us as we live in a three story house. Saved our legs a lot in the early days!” Debbie R.
“Probably our nappy subscription. It was great not having to worry that we would run out of nappies.” Catherine C.
The one essential newborn change time item? You’ve guessed it. Nappies. On average, newborns need 8-10 nappy changes a day! If you’re unsure about whether to go for disposable or reusable, you can learn more about both options in our Ultimate Guide to Reusable vs Eco Nappies. Considering using a combination of both? You are in good company! Many parents use reusables while at home and disposables at night and when out and about. Whatever you choose to do, here’s what you will need:
4 packs of newborn nappies
Size 1 offers the best fit for most newborns. Our subscription bundle contains 160 nappies which will last you between 2 and 4 weeks - learn more about nappy fit and sizing
Or
15-20 reusable nappies
Watch a quick video on how to use reusable nappies
Or
2 packs of newborn nappies and 8-10 reusables
If you are planning to combine both
10 packs of natural, plant-based wipes
Kit & Kin biodegradable wipes are also 99% water
2 rolls of nappy sacks
If you choose our nappy subscription, your baby essentials will be delivered to your door regularly so you won’t have to worry about a thing.
Nappy cream
Our Magic Salve works wonderfully as a barrier cream on baby’s bum, but also treats dry spots all over the body.
Changing mat
Changing bag
Bath or bath support (to use in your big bath)
Thermometer
Nail kit
Optional:
Gentle baby toiletries
In the early days water alone is just fine. You can start using natural baby care products at 4 to 6 weeks.
Towels & washcloths
Bath thermometer
Hair brush
“Onesies with integrated scratch mittens!” Sharon S.
“Baby sleeping bags. He refused to be swaddled so sleeping bags meant no worry about loose blankets.” Hattie P.
“Heaps and heaps of muslins! A friend advised us to get twice as many as we thought, and we still ended up buying more…” Leo G.
In the early days of dressing a newborn, it’s practicality above all else. With babies spending so much time sleeping, we recommend you stock up on super comfortable onesies. Treat yourself to 1-2 teeny tiny outfits for fancy days out - because we know it’s impossible to resist them altogether. Pro tip: The stretchy envelope neckline on baby vests is designed so you can take them off by pulling them down your baby, rather than over their head. You might not appreciate the gravity of this insight right now, but you will quietly thank us later 🤓
10 vests
For layering. Long or short sleeved, depending on season.
10 onesies/sleepsuits with integrated scratch mittens
Ours are made from 100% organic cotton and come in stylish unisex prints with fold over feet. They also feature an easy zip-up front for extra easy night time changes.
2 summer/winter hats
Our organic cotton knit hats are perfect for Autumn to Spring and they come with adorable bear or bunny ears
2 sleeping bags
1 tog: For nurseries over 20℃
2 tog: For nurseries between 16-20℃
3 tog: For nurseries under 16℃
2 cardigans, jackets or snow suits
Did we hear you ask for bear or bunny ears?
10-20 muslins
Warm socks for winter babies
Optional:
2 cute outfits
For special occasions.
2 dummies
Advice from the NHS: “If you do use a dummy, do not start until breastfeeding is well established. This is usually when your baby is around 1 month old.”1
“Baby carriers! Our little one loved being held and carried around.” Lisa D.
“Sling - amazing for a baby who didn’t want to be put down.” Kelsey H.
“A wrap sling, great for skin to skin and moving around hands free!” Leanne K.
“Sling to help baby sleep in those first few weeks but have hands free for other things!” Emily L.
Many parents in our community consider their sling or baby carrier completely indispensable.
When it comes to prams, most parents recommended a model that allows for your car seat to be clicked into the pram’s frame. When purchased together as a set, this is known as a travel system. Some pram brands allow you to buy adaptors to fit a number of car seats by different manufacturers. If your baby falls asleep while on the go, this means that you can run quick errands without lifting them out of their seat and waking them unnecessarily.
For longer outings however, the NHS recommend lying your little one down in their carry cot: “Your baby should not be in a car seat for longer than two hours at a time.”2
Pram & pram blanket
Sling or baby carrier
Rear facing car seat
Sun shade
“Freezer meals!” Charlotte B.
“Some ready meals and snacks that required no effort.” Vicky S.
“Good quality frozen ready meals.” Naomi S.
Once baby has arrived, we seemingly spend entire days feeding them. So much so that we sometimes forget to feed ourselves.
Pro tip from our community: Stock up on high-quality frozen meals to keep exhausted parents happy and healthy. We recommend our friends at COOK for putting sustainability and animal welfare first. And because their meals are just delicious!
Your feeding requirements will differ greatly depending on whether you are planning to breastfeed or bottle feed. So we’ve made two separate lists for you.
2-4 nursing bras
Breast pads
Loose tops or breastfeeding tops
Breastmilk freezer bags
Optional:
Feeding pillow
Breast pump
If you are not planning to express milk you won’t need a breast pump. Sometimes you might feel engorged and while you are learning to hand express it will be good to have a simple pump at hand. Silicone suction cups are inexpensive and easy to store. Haakaa is the most well-known brand with a focus on broadening their range of eco options.
5 bottles
Steriliser
Bottle brush
Formula
Optional:
Prep machine
Steam steriliser
“Next To Me crib!” Vicky P. & Carly D.
All that you will REALLY need is a safe place for your baby to sleep. Many parents in our community were relieved to have chosen a bedside cot rather than a traditional cot. Bedside cots can be attached to your own bed so that your baby is always next to you at night while still having their own, safe sleeping space.
Cot beds are also worth looking into. They are bigger and come with a detachable side, so your little one can sleep in them until well into toddlerhood.
A changing unit is optional. Many parents simply use an existing dresser, others prefer the floor to make things easier with a wiggly baby.
Somewhere safe for baby to sleep
cot, cot bed, moses basket or bedside cot
New mattress
Bedding
Dresser
Night light
Baby monitor
Nappy bin
Optional:
Feeding chair
Changing unit
“Our velour playmat, somewhere soft to safely put our little one down and so easy for us to attach age appropriate things to.” Laura P.
Any toys are completely optional at this point. Baby’s eyesight will begin developing after a few days and they will become more inquisitive. Babycentre.co.uk say that “High-contrast toys in black, white or red help your baby pick out the differences in shapes and patterns, stimulating her visual development.”3
After a few weeks, many babies enjoy me-time on their play mat. Attach their favourite sensory toys like rattles, baby mirrors or high contrast animals and watch them play while enjoying your well deserved cup of coffee!
Optional:
Play mat
Rocker / baby swing
Comforter toy
Mobile
Keeping it simple in the early days means you won’t feel overwhelmed with lots of items your baby might never need. Get the basics. And as you get to know your little one it will become obvious to you what else might be useful. We wish you all the very best for those next amazing few months!
Thank you so much to those of you who helped create this list by sharing your wisdom in the Kit & Kin Family. If you have found reading this helpful, we would love for you to join us and become part of our amazingly supportive community of new parents. We will continue to listen to you and update this article over time.
Download your FREE printable checklist
2
https://elht.nhs.uk/services/maternity-and-newborn-services/keeping-your-baby-safe
At Kit & Kin, we know first hand how overwhelming it can be to navigate the stormy waters of eco claims. We believe that greenwashing is unacceptable. So let’s get down to the nitty-gritty and break down exactly how you are making a positive impact by choosing Kit & Kin.
Our entire range is eco-friendly, meaning that every single product has been “designed to have little or no damaging effect on the environment” (Cambridge Dictionary).
This is true for how our ingredients and materials are sourced as well as where and how our products are made. From our nappies produced in our carbon neutral plant in the Czech Republic, to the 100% organic cotton sourced from Portugal for our babywear range, it’s all about products that are kind to the planet.
In our opinion, any company that claims to be eco-friendly should also give back to our planet. That’s why every Kit & Kin product you buy, helps protect acres of rainforest FOREVER through the Kit & Kin Foundation!
Our customers have already saved thousands of acres of precious habitats!
Sustainability is the golden principle we source our ingredients and materials by. While giving back and minimising our impact on the planet is fantastic, we want to go a step further and ensure that the resources we use are not exhausted by the time our children grow up.
Sustainability means “meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs” (UN Bruntland Commission).
So instead of using petrochemicals, we opt for plant-based alternatives that will continue to grow back and are also so much better for baby’s skin.
Our nappies are the most accredited eco option on the planet:
Our wipes manufacturer is a climate neutral company. Both our wipes and nappy sacks are also 100% plant based and biodegradable.
Newborn skin is delicate! And it absorbs up to 60% of the ingredients in the products we use.
It’s shocking how many bath and body products still contain toxic ingredients:
Kit & Kin skincare only uses pure oils, gentle herbs and the cleanest ingredients made from natural sources as opposed to petroleum jelly. But don’t take our word for it!
Our skincare is certified natural by the COSMOS association. It’s also clinically tested to ensure it’s hypoallergenic and approved by dermatologists.
Our clothing range is made from 100% organic cotton.
What we stay away from:
What we do instead:
Everybody wins
Better working conditions, uncompromised water quality and strong healthy soil. And most importantly, as parents we can breathe easy knowing we dress our babies in the purest textiles.
Why we don’t use bamboo
There’s a good reason why Global Organic Textile Standards don’t certify bamboo textiles - not even when they have been produced with organically grown bamboo:
Making eco-conscious swaps every day is one easy way to manage our impact on the environment. Not only does this benefit our planet, but your family too - plant-based and chemical-free products are best for baby’s skin.
If you choose a Kit & Kin nappy subscription:
On top of supporting the permanent protection of rainforest, every Kit & Kin product you buy also supports communities - in the rainforest as well as at home in the UK.
The Kit & Kin Foundation provides:
One small swap makes a real difference when we all come together, and we’re so grateful to our customers who make this possible.
]]>As with all things related to pregnancy and babies, advice on what to pack in your hospital bag can be overwhelming. The internet offers countless pregnancy hospital bag checklists and you are pretty much guaranteed to overpack for baby’s very first journey. We encourage you to enjoy this final milestone of getting ready for baby’s arrival rather than feeling stressed and worried about forgetting an important item. As long as you have something comfortable to wear during labour as well as your pregnancy notes you’ll be fine. Some hospitals now save your notes digitally, meaning you might not even need to worry about bringing a file. Your partner can always nip out and get any forgotten items once baby has arrived. The truth is that you will be so busy during labour, you might forget about that playlist you had lovingly put together or that lip balm you thought was so important.
Some families prefer having separate bags to make finding specific items as easy as possible. These might be individual bags for baby and mum or for during and after labour. Consider that you might not be able to unpack yourself, so getting your partner involved in the packing process can help make things easier on the big day.So, what do you really need in hospital during and after labour? We have aimed to give you the essentials, along with some nice-to-haves on a separate list. To make packing a breeze, please scroll all the way down for printable lists.
It’s a good idea to have your hospital bag ready about a month before your due date, just in case your little passenger decides to make an early appearance. Have your hospital notes at the top of the bag or in a side pocket so you can grab them easily when going for check-ups during that final month. Remember to always put them straight back in the bag when you return home. Place your bag somewhere you are guaranteed to see it on your way out. This will make everything as easy as possible when it’s time to go.
All of us here at Kit & Kin wish you the very best for the next few weeks and for the birth of your little miracle! If you have any questions, we are just an e-mail away! We’d love to hear from you at kit@kitandkin.ie!
Download your FREE printable checklist
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All year round, The Kit & Kin Foundation works with the World Land Trust (WLT) to donate part of every sale to protect precious rainforest forever. This Black Friday it was really important to us that we build on this work. So this year you have the opportunity to make big savings AND a real difference. With Kit & Kin, you don’t have to choose between the two! You deserve a discount, and our planet needs protecting.
Get a whopping £20 off when you spend over £75, and we will donate an extra £5 to WLT to help purchase and protect acres of precious rainforest around the world. So you can rest assured your Black Friday deals are not only saving you money, but are also looking after our world.
If ever there was a time to focus on protecting the rainforest, it's now. Alarmingly, deforestation accounts for up to 20% of all annual greenhouse gas emissions – contributing more than every car, boat and plane combined*. Since launching in 2017, we’ve worked closely with WLT to advocate for rainforest conservation and fund the protection of thousands of acres of threatened habitats globally, preventing more carbon from being released into the atmosphere. However this Black Friday, we wanted to make even more of a difference and help spread the message that it’s not only about making savings – you can help protect the environment at the same time.
Our co-founder Emma Bunton shares her thoughts: “We all love a bargain – myself included! But at Kit & Kin we want to ensure we’re also looking at the bigger picture and protecting the world our children will grow up in. That’s why we’re offering parents a fantastic discount while also making an extra donation to the World Land Trust. Saving money and rainforests at the same time, what’s not to love?!”
Your support really does make a difference - for every acre of rainforest we purchase:
50 trees are protected
76,000 tonnes of water are produced
130 tonnes of carbon are stored
We’d love you to join us in choosing a responsible Black Friday!
Offer applies site-wide at kitandkin.com, use code BF20 at checkout. Happy browsing!
*Source: World Land Trust
Offer T&Cs: Offer applies site-wide at kitandkin.com on all purchases over the value of £75, excluding existing subscription renewals. One use per customer, cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Valid from Thursday 25th November - Monday 29th November.
]]>Firstly, congratulations on your new arrival. When you first announce your pregnancy you brace yourself for jokes such as ‘get your sleep now, you won’t have any when you’re a parent’. And yes, there is going to be sleep loss; a young baby needs to be fed regularly day and night, but there is a difference between supporting your little bundle’s needs vs years of sleep deprivation! So what gentle things can you do in the early days to encourage your newborn on a successful sleep journey?
The Sleep Environment
One of the simplest things you can do to encourage good sleep habits is to set up the right sleep environment. The first thing I tell my clients to purchase is blackout blinds or curtains. Having the room your baby will sleep in at night – and for naps eventually - as dark as possible really helps with my next point.
Day & Night Separation
Differentiate day and night from the beginning. This is such a simple technique that can help babies learn that night time is more restful than daytime. Introduce a gentle bedtime routine from early on. Pick the feed closest to your ideal future bedtime (e.g. 7pm) and use that as the basis of ‘night time’. Give your baby a wash/massage, put them in a fresh sleepsuit and take them into a dark room to feed. Once they are winded and content, pop them into their crib. They will still wake up for their next feed when they need to, but also do that feed in a dark room. They will learn that night time isn’t much fun and is for sleeping long periods, and that daytime is where all the fun noise and stimulation is!
The Bedtime Feed
As they get older, try to make the last feed of the day the biggest. One of my favourite tips for this is feeding before AND after the bath. It just means babies have a bit more energy to enjoy their bath and it takes the pressure off the feed right before bed when they are super tired and they may fall asleep before taking much milk.
Feeding After Sleeping
When baby is ready, I really believe in the ‘wake-feed cycle’. This is essentially getting into the habit of feeding your little one straight after waking from a nap (for up to an hour) and then giving them some time to digest and play before they go down for their next sleep. It means your baby is feeding when they are at their most energised, which will lead to them consuming more milk and hopefully avoid forming the habit of feeding to sleep which is likely to cause sleep challenges as they get older.
Daytime Naps & Naps On the Move
Encourage your baby to have at least one sleep in their crib in a dark room during the day where you remain with your baby. Newborn cuddles are the best! I’m absolutely not saying to not have them. But one nap per day not on you or in a sling, teaches them that there are other places to sleep. It’s a great skill for later on. Plus, you might just get that nice cup of HOT coffee or tea!
If your little one is fussy and showing signs of tiredness but will not settle, take them out in the pram if you can. Some parents (and sleep consultants) fear naps on the move as it can be considered ‘rocking the baby to sleep’. And this can be true, but sometimes little ones just need a helping hand. I believe sleep breeds sleep. So as long as your little one isn’t having all their naps in the pram or on the move, then keeping their day schedule on track so they aren’t overtired is absolutely fine.
So there we have it – Chris’ 5 steps towards better sleep for you and your family. Will you be trying them out? Or do you have any of your own that have revolutionised your routine? We’d love to hear from you, so do get involved via our social channels @kitandkinuk.
Chris McFadden (The Daddy Sleep Consultant) is the first male baby and toddler sleep consultant in the UK and Ireland and specialises in gentle sleep training. He works with families on a one-to-one basis to design bespoke sleep training programmes that work around their lifestyle and little one’s needs. He also offers a series of age specific online courses starting from £29 that you can follow at your own pace. Follow Chris on Instagram for lots of tips and strategies for better sleep.
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As parents we all know that once baby arrives, everything changes. Life with a little one can be joyful, draining, exciting and daunting all at once - along with pretty much every other emotion under the sun. Spare time feels like a long forgotten luxury, not to mention the lack of sleep!
We know you’re busy - so to save you some time and help support you on your journey, we’ve rounded up some of our top blog posts for new parents below. We’re covering everything from nappy sizing and fit, to tips on weaning and ways to sleep better.
Happy reading!
]]>You might already know that each Kit & Kin product you buy helps protect acres of rainforest forever! We thought it was time to come up with a fun way to thank you for being on this journey with us. That’s why today we are launching the Kit & Kin Family – a virtual place for all of us to get together, complete fun missions and score points. And do you know what points mean? That’s right – rewards 🎉
Our missions range from green tasks to following us on social, and referring friends to sharing our own Kit & Kin related images on social media. You will be able to see the posts of other parents and you might even become Kit & Kin celebs! Any images you upload for challenges may be used on the Kit & Kin Facebook pages, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter, emails, website or even Co-Founder Emma Bunton’s social channels! Keep an eye out to see where your snaps might appear! 👀
What will I get? Your membership will be an exciting journey from seed to sapling, then canopy to our top tier of rainforest. How quickly you reach the top tier will depend on how many fun missions you complete and how many orders you make. Being a subscriber will take you to the top tiers fastest. Make your way through our tiers and unlock all kinds of discounts, gifts, prize draws and much more 🏆
Where do I start? Simply log in below with your existing Kit & Kin account! We’ve got a couple of super-quick missions waiting to be completed by you right now. They will have you move up a tier before your baby can fill their nappy! And to speed up your green journey, we are giving you 1 point for every £ you spend.
We’re over the moon to welcome you! Not only will you be part of our fabulous rewards and referrals program, but you’ll also be part of a community of like-minded parents wanting to do their bit 💚
]]>Just when we thought this sunny week could not get any better, we have some fantastic news to share!
Both our eco nappies and biodegradable wipes are finalists for the Loved By Parents Awards!
Your support for our sustainable products would quite literally mean the world. Supporting our ethos helps us continue to bring you products that are better for baby, better for our world and give back!
As parents we know that every spare second is like gold dust, so we will make this as quick and easy as possible for you. Simply copy and paste the below product names and categories into the Loved By Parents voting form
Product Name:
Kit & Kin eco nappies
First Category:
Best Premium Nappy Range
Product Name:
Kit & Kin eco nappies
Second Category:
Best Eco Friendly Baby Care Product
Product Name:
Kit & Kin biodegradable baby wipes
Third Category:
Best Eco Friendly Baby Wipes
This is what your form should look like:
We are so grateful for your support and your commitment to a greener world for our children! Voting closes at midnight on the 9th June 2021. Thank you SO much!
VOTE HERE
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If you are unsure what size of nappy to pack in your hospital bag, you are not alone. Many parents try to be super prepared by taking into consideration bump’s projected birth weight. The truth is that more often than not, baby’s actual weight will be much higher or lower. But don’t worry! This does not need to be complicated! Most newborns will fit into size 1 nappies for the first few weeks of their lives. Our size 1 comes with umbilical cord cut outs to ensure that the nappy does not sit on top of your little one’s umbilical stump. All of this makes size 1 the ideal choice for your hospital bag.
This is a question we hear a lot. We offer a nappy subscription service and it can be a bit daunting deciding on quantities before you have met your little person.
As with all parenting-related matters, there is no black and white answer to this question. Approximately, you can expect to go through around 8-10 nappies per day with your newborn. As baby grows, this will reduce slightly.
We always advise our customers to go with our standard subscription bundle of 4 packs. This will give you an indication of how quickly you go through a pack and a chance to either add another pack or change your delivery frequency. When you find yourself running low, you can always bring your next delivery forward.
You can expect to go through around 6 nappies per day for babies and around 5 for toddlers.
Image: @the_photographer_mama
Choosing the best size for your little one can seem a little bit overwhelming, particularly because weight brackets overlap so much. But don’t worry, it’s not as complicated as it may seem!
Nappy sizes are based on weight. If it’s been a while since your last health visitor check up, just weigh your baby using bathroom scales. Step on the scales holding your little one and then subtract your own weight.
Since weight brackets overlap so much, you will likely have a choice between two different sizes. When in doubt, always go for the bigger option. The bigger the size, the better the absorbency. Buying the bigger size means no risk whatsoever because even if it’s still very spacious now, your little one will grow into it before you know it. Don’t panic if the nappy seems massive on your baby when you have sized up! You will soon get used to it. Simply use the tabs to adjust the fit around the waist and overlap them if necessary for a snug fit.
Finally, remember that weight guides should be considered as such - guides. Every single baby is different so if the suggested size seems too big or small to you, don’t be afraid to march to the beat of your own drum.
It’s important to remember that nappy sizing does not depend on age. It doesn't even entirely depend on weight but rather on the specific needs of your little one. This article will give you all the information you need to ensure that you get the best possible fit and absorbency for your baby. However, as a general rule of thumb, we have compiled the approximate age range for every size in the above table.
Once your little one gets a little bit more mobile (or less patient during those nappy changes), some parents prefer moving to nappy pants. They make for extra-quick changes and allow toddlers to pull them down themselves when getting used to potty. This can help boost their confidence and independence.
We recommend looking out for the following signs when deciding whether or not to size up:
1) Leaking
The bigger the nappy, the better its absorbency. If you notice your baby’s nappy suddenly doesn’t last as long as it used to, sizing up usually resolves the problem. Just keep in mind that if the nappy is far too large, baby’s business might escape via the gap between the skin and absorbent lining before the nappy can absorb it. Read on for some advice on how to ensure you’ve got the best fit for your little one.
2) Red marks around tummy and thighs
Even in the absence of marks, your little one might seem uncomfortable in their nappy or suddenly sweat around the waistband.
3) Poor fit
We have put together a handy fit guide for you. The next section explains exactly how big the nappy should be on your child, how it should fit and how to best fasten it.
Image: @the_photographer_mama
The nappy should be tall enough to reach just below the belly button. If it sits lower, it’s time to try the next size up.
You should be able to fasten the nappy comfortably with the front tabs nearly touching without breaking into sweat.
The nappy should fit snugly around the waist, but you should be able to fit two fingers under the waistband. If you notice any red marks, size up! If the fit is loose around the waist, don’t be afraid to overlap the front tabs!
You do however want a looser fit below the waist. This will be more comfortable and prevent leaks. The buttocks should be completely covered by the width of the nappy.
Ensure there aren’t any gaps around the legs and the material around the cuffs is untucked. This will help prevent leaks, so running a finger around each leg is always a good idea.
You will soon get to know your child and read their cues. As a general rule of thumb, you can tell when a nappy needs changing by touching the front of them with your palm. If they feel bulky and spongy, it’s time to say bye-bye 😊
We hope that this has answered all your questions regarding nappy fit - even those ones you didn’t know you had. If you should however have any further questions, remember that our customer service team is always here to help. If you are curious about introducing reusable nappies to your routine, our Ultimate Guide to Reusable vs Disposable Nappies is a good place to start.
]]>The convenience offered by disposable nappies is obvious as they don’t require any washing. This ease of use is the main reason why many parents prefer this option. But are reusable nappies really as difficult to use as people think? The truth is, they have come a long way.
Reusables can take a bit of practice at the very beginning, but a lot of parents who try them find them completely manageable. Have a look at online forums and social media and you will find that there is a lively cloth community out there to find advice on what types of cloth nappies other mums prefer and why.
Once used, washable nappies are usually placed in nappy bins until laundry day. If your baby is on solid foods, any poo is lifted out via the nappy liner and flushed down the toilet before putting the nappy away for washing. Some parents line their nappy bin (a simple bucket with a sealable lid to eliminate odours) with a big wet or mesh bag instead of a disposable liner to minimise mess. This means you will be able to wash the bag along with its contents.
When out and about, a wet bag is indispensable; it will make it super easy to bring your baby’s business back home.
Once baby moves on to solid foods, most mums also like to use disposable nappy liners to neatly catch the poop and flush it down the toilet.
Reusable nappies are a safe choice for babies with skin sensitivities. They might require more frequent changing but you can add boosters to increase their absorbency and prolong wear between washes. Ours are slimline, super thirsty and 100% plant based. Many disposables available on the market however contain chemicals that can irritate the skin, cause sensitivity, allergies and even eczema. Here at Kit & Kin, we always knew we wanted to change this. When we created our disposable nappies, it was extremely important to us to eliminate those chemicals and make environmentally friendly disposable nappies that you can trust to protect your baby’s skin. That’s why the majority of our nappy is from plant-based materials derived from sugar cane and it features a part natural absorbent core.
Photo credit: @mybeautifulnowphotography
The main reason why you are comparing reusable and disposable nappies is probably because you want to be as kind as possible to the planet as a new parent. So, are reusable nappies more eco-friendly? And do environmentally friendly disposable nappies exist? Anything we consume has an environmental impact, so our choices are really important. We want to help you keep your nappy footprint to a minimum.
The fact that they can be reused for many years and even on multiple children makes them an incredibly eco-conscious choice. While they will of course require water and energy to be produced and to keep them smelling like roses, the following tips will help you keep your dirty laundry as green as possible:
You can find our reusable nappies here.
In order to find a truly eco disposable nappy, you can look out for:
All of these features and more make our nappy the most accredited eco disposable on the market.
If you are a first-time mum researching both disposable and reusable nappies, you are probably asking yourself one of life’s great questions: How much will my baby’s ‘business’ cost me?
According to the Environment Agency, 95% of children are out of nappies during the day by the age of 2 and a half years. So, how many nappies will your little one actually go through in the meantime?
The answer of course depends hugely on the child and parents. Our experience has shown us that you will require around 6 nappies per day. Single use nappies do not require any washing, but you will need to factor in nappy sacks.
So, how do reusable nappies compare financially? Besides convenience, the big up-front cost is the main reason why parents shy away from reusable nappies. Is this a justified concern? Yes and no. You only need about 12 nappies to get you started. Around 20 nappies plus some additional boosters will comfortably see your baby’s bum through to potty training whilst ensuring you get a full load of nappies on laundry day.
Speaking of laundry day, the Energy Saving Trust estimates that a 90° wash will set you back about 30p. We would recommend washing at much lower temperatures when possible, which would decrease the cost of washing. Even if you factor in disposable liners for when baby is a little bit older, the ‘running costs’ of washable nappies are comparatively low.
Combining both reusables and disposables at night or when out and about means spending approximately the same as parents who purely purchase single-use nappies.
Now that we’ve had a look at the advantages and disadvantages of reusable nappies and disposables, which option do you prefer? If you still can’t completely make your mind up, don’t worry! You’re not alone! Combining disposable and reusable nappies is what works for a lot of environmentally conscious parents. Reusables are a great option when at home, while disposables are often preferred during the night or when out and about. Our customisable nappy subscription allows for this flexibility. Ultimately, the answer is simple: Do what feels right for your family.
]]>This means our wipes are of course still 0% plastic, 99% water and 100% biodegradable. But we’ve added some handy new features to make each nappy change quick, easy and mess free.
So what’s new about them?
We’re sure you will love these improvements that we’re so excited to share with you! Because 90% of wipes on the market still contain plastic and we think that’s not OK. So let’s change it together! To get 20% off on your wipes bundle here and save £5, click here. And make sure you let us know how you get on!
]]>But we like to have a bit of fun, too. We always knew we wanted the design of our nappies to stand out. So we took inspiration from the natural world around us and added an adorable animal face to the back of every super cute nappy.
And we’re very excited to share that we have recently had some new additions to the family! Meet lamb, owl, mouse, lion, hedgehog and raccoon! This means our little bunch is now 18 animals strong. Each size comes with a mix of two friends for your little one and you to choose from.
And there’s more good news! We take pride in listening to our customers and a lot of you have been asking for smaller nappy pants. That’s why our nappy pants now come in sizes 4,5 and 6 to see your little one through from wriggling to potty training. They even feature a new, super soft all-round stretch waistband for a snug yet cosy fit.
To add some fun to change time and make your baby’s bum the cutest, try our nappies here.
How are you feeling about Black Friday this year? We think our approach in 2020 needs to be different.
After the year we have all had, we need to pause, reflect and focus on what is important.
So this year we decided to avoid Black Friday altogether.
We are turning off our advertising for the whole weekend through to Cyber Monday.
Instead we are using the money saved this way to buy and protect more acres of precious rainforest.
We think that’s a saving that’s really worth it and we hope you do too.
While other brands are pushing out their promotions, we are spending the time from Black Friday to Cyber Monday to talk about what we believe really matters.
A Greener Tomorrow.
We are bringing you stories from our giving back programmes in Guatemala and around the world. Thanks to the donation made from every Kit & Kin product purchased, the programmes are thriving. We are sharing stories from the communities who we work with there, showing the real work that is done through The Kit & Kin Foundation.
We are exclusively focusing our feed on all things sustainable, from our amazing partners the World Land Trust to our customers who make it all possible.
A big THANK YOU is due to those customers. Their choice to switch to an eco nappy makes a huge difference to our impact on the planet, especially when you consider the average baby gets through around 6000 nappies in their early years!
We would love for you to join us and them in choosing a more sustainable Black Friday this year. We of course suggest a great first step is choosing a subscription service for a sustainable nappy!
Thanks for reading this and we'd love to hear any suggestions you have on how we can make a #GreenerTomorrow together.
]]>Fact: almost all new parents are exhausted. The level of fatigue during the newborn phase is mind-blowing and, luckily, doesn’t last forever. But even after your baby or toddler is now sleeping more at night, many mums (and dads) are still running on empty. So how can we get more ZZZs even if our kids aren’t the best sleepers?
The key is using tools to ensure you get better sleep and feel more rested in a shorter period of time. The good news is that making a few minor adjustments to your day (and your attitude) about sleep can make a really positive difference to the quality of sleep you get. So, even when there aren’t many hours available for you to get sleep (hello night feeds, teething, night terrors, bed wetting….), these tips will ensure the sleep you DO get, even if only a little, is really good quality sleep, to help restore and revive you in order to give yourself the deserved rest you need to function.
You’re all probably aware of the need to switch off from your electronic devices, to be in a cool room and avoid stimulants like caffeine during the afternoon - but here are some sleep secrets you might not have known about…
1. Get serious about bedtime
If you want more sleep but your little one wakes each day at 6am, then one solution is to go to bed earlier in the evening. Set a bedtime that you do your best to stick to. It’s easy to get distracted (thanks, Netflix!), so I find it really helps to set a phone reminder to “wind down” 30 minutes before bedtime as a reminder to start preparing for bed.
2. Routine
Routine is the most important factor in getting good sleep, it is the guardian of good sleep. The body likes routine – it prefers to eat, sleep, and be active on a schedule. So stick to the same sleep schedule. Get up and go to bed at a similar time each day.
3. Daylight
Our eyes need exposure to outdoor light because of a hormone in our body called melatonin - it regulates our sleep and wake pattern and also acts on receptors in your body to encourage sleep. If we stay indoors, it means a lack of exposure to proper light, which reduces melatonin levels. So make sure you get outside every day.
4. Park your stress
Try not to take those worries to bed. Tell yourself you've done all you can for that day and there's nothing more to do right now. Anything still on your mind can be picked up again the next day, after a good night's sleep. Now is time for rest. If anxious thoughts are preventing you from getting some shut-eye and you can't stop going over your to-do list or worries in bed, try writing it all down. Keep a pen and paper by your bed to do this. Sometimes it can be trying to remember everything that actually keeps us from switching off properly so also jot down the things you need to do the next day, this will help you ‘release’ them from your memory.
5. Use breathing techniques to de-stress
The 4-7-8 technique forces the mind and body to focus on regulating the breath, rather than replaying your worries when you lie down at night. It also helps soothe frazzled nerves and sends a wave of calmness through your body by activating the parasympathetic nervous system. To practice this start first by fully exhaling and emptying your lungs. Then, breathe in for a count of 4 through your nose. Hold for a count of 7. Breathe out through your mouth for 8. This method has been described as a ‘natural tranquilizer for the nervous system’, so do give it a try.
6. Introduce essential oils to your sleep routine
Essential oils are amazing for supporting healthy sleep. There are an array of essential oils that can help you relax, mentally and physically, and make it easier for you to fall asleep and sleep more soundly. My personal sleep favourites? Lavender is a soothing scent that’s long been associated with relaxation and sleep, and used as a natural remedy for anxiety too. Jasmine has some serious sleep-promoting capabilities. Research shows jasmine improves sleep quality and cuts down on restless sleeping, as well as increasing daytime alertness. A 2002 study showed that jasmine delivered all of these sleep benefits, as well as lowering anxiety, even more effectively than lavender.
7. Avoid sleep-stealing snacks
If you’re having trouble falling asleep, cut yourself off refined sugar and processed carb snacks by early afternoon. Refined grains and sugars disrupt your steady-state down-time metabolism, creating blood sugar and insulin fluctuations that may well wake you up at odd times. If you need to snack, make it a high-protein snack because that should avoid the blood sugar/insulin rollercoaster and will also provide a helpful dose of L-tryptophan, an amino acid needed to produce melatonin to aid sleep.
8. Don’t ignore your sleep wave
So you stayed up a little too late watching Netflix? Now, you’re in bed and wide awake. If you’ve been there for 45 minutes waiting for sleep to come, odds are, it won’t, not for at least another hour and maybe longer. You’ve missed catching the sleep wave or what some researchers call the “sleep gate,” the period of time that your body will let you fall asleep. Researchers have found that the body cycles through different sleep phases in the course of a night. At the beginning of each phase, which lasts for around 90 minutes, the “gate” opens and if you miss it, you’re out of luck.
So if it’s been 45 minutes and nothing’s happening, sleep-wise, there’s no point in fighting it. That will just stress you out more as the anxiety that surrounds insomnia makes the insomnia that much worse, a classic vicious circle. So break it! Get out of bed and do something calming for the next hour or hour and a half – read a book (in low light!), or do some other relaxation technique (i.e., meditation, restorative yoga, breathing exercises). Time will pass, pleasantly, and you’ll be ready to ride the next sleep wave when it hits.
What’s more, if you set an alarm when you go to bed, consider your 90-minute sleep cycle. You want to sleep either 6 hours, 7.5 hours or 9 hours per night. You don’t want to go to bed and set your alarm for 6.5 hours later. You will wake up from a deep sleep…groggy and so tired. Set your alarm for a half hour before that, and you will wake up from light sleep…refreshed and ready to go.
Louise Murray is a Holistic Health Coach with the qualification from the Institute of Integrative Nutrition and a Mindfulness Teacher. She takes a truly holistic approach to health and wellness by nourishing people ON and OFF the plate by coaching them with nutrition advice combined with lifestyle and behaviour change, healthy habit formation, mindset tools, mindfulness and self-care practices
http://www.livewellwithlou.com
@live_well_with_lou
]]>At Kit & Kin we love speaking to our customers and learning more about why they choose us, what they like most about the brand, and of course how we can continue to improve our service to ensure we always have the very best offering on the market. Customer satisfaction means everything to us! So that’s why we’re over the moon about the results from our recent survey. We asked our subscribers how likely they would be to recommend us to a friend or family member - and a whopping 9 out of 10 (or 93% to be exact) said they would recommend us! This really put a smile on our faces, as happy customers are at the very centre of what we do every day.
Not only did the results from the survey make us feel very proud, but they also showed just how important protecting the planet is to our customers. We asked what the best aspect of our nappies were, and more than 70% chose the fact that we use plant-based, sustainable materials as number one. It’s really fantastic that so many of us are making small changes to reduce our environmental impact, and motivates us even more to continue developing our products with the latest green technology.
And to back the point up further, according to our customers the most important reason for signing up to our handy subscription service is to help the environment, with over half of respondents selecting this as their very top priority. Because not only are our nappies made from sustainable materials, but also for every 10 subscriptions, we purchase and protect 1 acre of precious rainforest - so we give back at the same time, helping to safeguard this vital ecosystem for generations to come. Our customers truly are fantastic and we are delighted to hear just how much they care about our world, just as we do too.
If you have any thoughts on what you love about Kit & Kin or how we could improve, we would love to hear them! Our door is always open at kit@kitandkin.ie]]>When Emma and I first started Kit & Kin, we wanted to create a business that had a positive impact on the world that our children would grow up in.
Thankfully we found that thousands of parents agreed with our three pillar philosophy:
better for baby, better for our world and giving back, becoming Kit & Kin customers.
Together we could make conscious choices in what we do and what we buy.
Those choices add up to something great.
When Covid-19 raced through the world, the impact on our business was swift.
We welcomed a lot of new customers. Loads of them!
New customers making an eco choice for their baby.
Fantastic!
But in the background we already had plans to make our popular eco nappy perform even better. Performance that would be even more environmentally friendly.
We wanted a nappy that was more comfortable and absorbent for baby.
We needed to move to carbon neutral production.
We needed packaging made from a sustainable material that was also 100% recyclable.
So despite a pandemic, a lockdown and a disrupted supply chain we proceeded to make the change to the upgraded nappy and packaging. And it was worth doing. We have picked up an extra 10 industry accreditations, making us the most widely accredited eco nappy on the market.
A delay in the supply chain has unfortunately meant that we have had to go without our famous designs for a short while, but we think the environmental impact is worth it.
Our improved nappy is more comfortable for your baby and by making the upgrade now we will ultimately save more energy and cause less waste.
The animals will be back really soon and we are so grateful for our customers’ understanding. Kit & Kin customers love our branding and the environment, and we love them for it.
What else has Kit & Kin been up to while locked-down?
Thanks for your support during this year. We know it’s been so tough on everyone, including all our children.
We are really grateful that our business continues to grow and in doing so, helps protect rainforests and generally make parenting less impactful on the environment.
Thanks again for choosing us.
From both me and Emma,
Christopher Money
Co-founder and MD Kit & Kin
Being a mum is hard work! From waking up in the middle of the night to feed your baby to picking the kids up from school, us mums have busy schedules and that means we’re often exhausted.
So when it comes to looking after your own health and wellness, it’s totally normal to feel stressed and not know where to start - which means that self-care quickly falls by the wayside as you continue with the daily grind.
Research has shown that mums have on average just 17 minutes of time to themselves each day!* But, if you can find even just 10 precious minutes for a little self-care each day, you are going to be so much better for it, and your kids will be better for it too.
This is why I love the concept of MICRO-SELF CARE! The trick is to practice self-care in short intervals, little micro moments, so you can micro-dose on self-care throughout your day.
Sound good? Here are 5 of my favourite micro-self care tools for mums that have ‘no time’ for self-care….
Stop what you’re doing and take a deep breath. Do not underestimate the power of a deep breath. These precious seconds may be the difference between losing your cool and responding calmly; between feeling overwhelmed and staying focused.
If you’re not breathing optimally, you’re robbing yourself of energy. The way you breathe may be causing you to feel tired, fatigued, foggy, and uninspired. This is because proper, controlled breathing ensures an optimal oxygen-carbon dioxide exchange. This is vital for high energy and mental alertness levels.
Do this simple breathing exercise twice a day or whenever you feel yourself losing steam:
When you start feeling a little overwhelmed, this is a great ‘2-minute’ self-care tool.
Make yourself a cup of your favourite warm drink and sit down. Notice three things in this moment – the colour of the drink, the weight of the mug, the feeling of the chair. Then consciously breath into your shoulders, try and relax them down a little and enjoy your cuppa – savouring the flavour. Return gently to the senses whenever you notice the mind straying into thought. Be open to your senses, rather than try to analyse what’s happening.
As a mum, you can often feel like you're pulled in a million different directions trying to please everyone in the family. But it's okay to say no sometimes, and to not take on extra work on your plate when you don’t think you can manage it or it will stress you out.
‘No’ is such a small word yet so hard to say! You can say no and still be a good friend, colleague, sister, person. Saying no is empowering. Saying ‘no’ is a massive self-care gift to yourself.
Here are a few ways you can say ‘no’:
Positive affirmations are a powerful way of sending yourself a great dose of positive vibes and a great self-love tool.They can be grounding, energizing, motivating, inspiring or loving. When I began recovering from postnatal depletion, positive affirmations helped me like nothing else. And they have been a constant supportive mind-nourishing tool throughout my motherhood journey.
Here are a few of my favourite self-love affirmations:
Today, I choose me
I love my body and all it does for me
I believe in me
I love the woman that I am
I am growing and learning every day
Gratitude is a fantastic little mindset makeover tool and something that you can practice throughout the day as you go, so it doesn’t add anything extra to your ever-mounting ‘to do’ list. Just try and slow down just a fraction, just enough to briefly ‘press pause’ and just try and be in the moment of whatever you are experiencing and mentally note down what you are grateful for in that moment.
So for example – a child’s laugh. Just be in that moment and mentally note down how grateful you are for that magical laugh. DONE! That’s it. Try and rack up as many of these as you can throughout your day. This micro self-care tool will help you embrace the everyday magic amongst the chaos and whirlwind of motherhood.
Louise Murray is a Holistic Health Coach with the qualification from the Institute of Integrative Nutrition and a Mindfulness Teacher. She takes a truly holistic approach to health and wellness by nourishing people ON and OFF the plate by coaching them with nutrition advice combined with lifestyle and behaviour change, healthy habit formation, mindset tools, mindfulness and self-care practices
http://www.livewellwithlou.com
@live_well_with_lou
*Source: MailOnline
]]>Here at Kit & Kin we have won top awards for our nappies every year since our launch. That’s because our development team always push to make sure that our nappies are better for your baby, better for our world and that every sale gives back. We’re literally obsessed!
And today we are very happy to announce some improvements that will make your eco nappy perform even better than before.
So let’s take a look at these new additions to your eco nappy and why they make a difference to your baby.
Flash Dry Layer
The first addition is an extra layer inside the nappy, which is called the flash dry layer. This instantly absorbs and locks away liquid, so that baby’s sensitive skin stays dry for longer.
Channel Technology
Next the channel technology helps out. The channels collect the absorbed liquid and evenly distribute it around the nappy. That means it doesn’t all sit at the bottom of the nappy - so no sagging, just secure leak protection!
Dry Nappies = Happy Babies
We know how important dryness is for happy day time adventures - the flash dry layer and channel technology means no more dashes to find clean and spacious changing stations or that guilty feeling when baby has been in a wet nappy too long. With up to 12hr protection from leaks it also vastly increases likelihood of a peaceful and dry night. Something we know is top of your list!
Better for baby, better for our world and gives back
All of this improvement is at no extra cost to you and is kind to the planet, as our eco credentials are head and shoulders above the rest.
We can’t wait for you to try them!
]]>For every 10 babies in Kit & Kin nappies, we purchase and protect one acre of rainforest. We are really grateful to all our customers for making the work we do through the Kit & KIn Foundation and the World Land Trust a possibility.
As of today we are beyond excited to announce some further shiny new accreditations that frankly we are going to be showing off about! We are the only eco brand to have all of these.
Let’s learn about some of the new accreditations, what they mean and why they are so important for your baby’s nappy.
100% Carbon Neutral Plant, Packaging and Production
In 2019 we conducted a survey and discovered 70% of customers chose us for our sustainability. When we reached out to speak to some of these customers, they challenged us on the production of our nappies - were we carbon neutral? Although we have always had a plant that was ecologically driven, with renewable energy being a feature, we can now say that the plant is 100% carbon neutral which is a big step - and this also extends to the packaging. A big thank you to our customers for pushing this issue with us.
FSC Forests For All Forever
This great nod from the FSC means that the plant-based materials we do use are from regulated forests. The famous tree tick logo means that you can buy with the confidence that your choice is helping to keep our forests alive for future generations. In the case of your nappy, the chlorine-free fluff pulp on the inside that makes it super absorbent is the part that is FSC certified.
Allergy Certified
When you see the Allergy Certified logo on a product it means that every single ingredient and component has been carefully analysed by an independent team of toxicologists to ensure that there is a minimal possible risk of skin allergy. Our nappies have always used only the gentlest materials to be kind on delicate skin, but now you can be extra sure that your baby’s bottom is protected.
Cruelty Free and Vegan
We started Kit & Kin because we love our planet and the animals that live here. It makes sense for our range to never harm animals and to avoid use of animal by-products. Our materials are mostly plant-derived which is better for baby and our world.
If this all sounds good to you (and we hope it does!), check out our nappies here!]]>
1.) Leaking
Does your nappy not last as long as it used to between changes or do you suddenly experience frequent leaks? Moving up usually resolves this because bigger nappy sizes offer increased absorbency. If your baby develops a rash overnight, this might also be due to a saturated nappy and the wetness being close to the skin.
2.) Red marks around tummy and thighs
Does little one seem uncomfortable in their nappy? Are you noticing red marks on their tummy where the waistband of the nappy sits or on their thighs around the nappy’s leg cuffs? Are you suddenly noticing sweat around the waistband? Moving up a nappy size will likely resolve all of this.
3.) Poor fit
While a nappy should fit snugly around waist and legs, you want a loose fit at the front and back. Also make sure the nappy is big enough to cover the lower part of baby’s tummy, to just below the belly button. Finally, double check baby’s buttocks are completely covered. For simple steps to a perfectly fitted nappy, have a look at our Ultimate Size & Fit Guide. It also answers every question under the sun on nappy sizing.
4.) Tabs don’t close comfortably to the centre of the nappy waistband
Are you having to pull the nappy side tabs to get them to close? Are they sitting quite far apart on baby’s tummy when fastened? As soon as you are unable to fasten them without any pulling or wiggling, give the next nappy size up a go.
5.) Mobility
When baby starts to walk and crawl, or is starting to become interested in potty, some parents prefer switching to nappy pants. These will make for extra-quick changes and allow little one to pull them down themselves when getting used to potty. A great way to make toddlers feel more confident and boost their independence.
Generally, if your little one is on the lower end of the scale for the next nappy size up, making the jump is a good idea. And when in doubt, always go for the bigger size! Trust us, it might just be the perfect solution to your nappy woes.
]]>Giving back has always been and always will be a key part of our ethos. That’s why, during this challenging period, we've brought our giving back programme closer to home. We're honoured to announce that we're taking part in a special initiative led by the Duchess of Cambridge, which aims to highlight the vital role that baby banks have played in supporting families up and down the UK during lockdown.
Along with 18 other British brands, we've been selected to donate our nappies to three fantastic organisations - Baby Basics, Little Village, and AberNecessities. Did you know that 77% of baby banks desperately need more nappies and other essentials? Baby banks aim to support and empower families by ensuring every child has the basic items they need to thrive, but over the last few months there has been a marked increase in demand. 9 in 10 baby banks say that the pandemic has made it harder to support families in the way that they would want - which is why this initiative is more important now than ever.
The Duchess of Cambridge said:
“Over recent months, I have heard from families who have been supported by baby banks through the most difficult of times and I have been deeply moved by their stories. Having somewhere to turn to for support is important for all families, and baby banks work every day, up and down the country, to provide immediate, tangible and practical help for parents and carers when they are most in need. Baby banks are driven by incredible volunteers, demonstrating the power of community spirit in supporting families and coming together to raise the next generation. Thanks to the generosity of the companies taking part in this initiative, baby banks across the UK will be able to support even more families through this particularly challenging time.”
We're incredibly grateful to be able to support and help raise awareness of the brilliant work these charities do, particularly during this uncertain time. To find out more about how you can help, click the links below. Together we really can make a difference.
https://baby-basics.org.uk
https://littlevillagehq.org
https://abernecessities.co.uk