What You Need To Know

Using burp cloths and bibs will definitely save you doing laundry quite as often. Since your baby will no doubt mouth these, make sure you choose the best materials. 

AVOID 

• Conventionally-produced cotton, hemp, linen or wool. These fabrics, particularly cotton, are sprayed heavily with certain organophosphate pesticides, which are poisonous to insects, birds and mammals and can contaminate the soil and groundwater. These toxic chemicals can end up in the fibers and are released when the fibers degrade. Exposure to pesticides can impact neurodevelopment and some are associated with lower IQs, birth defects and developmental delays.
• Flame retardants, particularly polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), are not only toxic to humans but they aren’t even useful in deterring flames. Exposure to PBDEs in utero and early childhood has been linked to poorer attention, lower fine motor skills and lower IQs as well as a reproductive birth defect, hypospadias.
• Polyester, which is made of multiple synthetic chemicals that are petroleum-based, can lead to skin problems, such as rashes, itching and dermatitis, irritate the respiratory system and contribute to certain cancers. 
• Perfluorochemicals (PFCs) which are added for durability, stain resistance and wrinkle resistance. These can off-gas and be inhaled or leach into sensitive skin. Exposure to PFCs may impact neurodevelopment, reproductive health and the immune system. 
• Formaldehyde, which is used to prevent shrinkage, can off-gas and contribute to leukemia and cancers of the nose, throat and sinuses.
• Antimicrobial and antibacterial agents in fabric can increase the risk of cancer, reproductive and neurological impairments as well as allergies, asthma and eczema. The overuse of antimicrobial and antibacterial chemicals is also spawning new “superbugs” that don’t respond to antibiotics when we really need them.
• Synthetic dyes used to color burp cloths and bibs, such as benzidine-based dyes, have toxic properties as well. Exposures to these chemicals can increase the risk of cancer and skin irritations.

BETTER CHOICES

• Organic and untreated cotton or cotton flannel. These will be the safest because very few harmful chemicals are applied in the growing or manufacturing process (look for the Global Organic Textile Standard or GOTS label). 
• Burp cloths and bibs with “natural dyes,” meaning dyes derived from organic plant sources without the use of synthetic chemicals.
• Old towels or even cloth diapers are an option. Some chemical finishes and off-gassing can decrease after multiple washings. Plus, you’re recycling and reusing materials, which is far better for the environment, while saving you money.