Babies sleep upwards of 10 to 20 hours per day, and this time is significant for their development, which is why the mattresses that they sleep on matter.

Traditional mattresses are made with polyurethane foam (which comes from petroleum) and are often soaked or sprayed with toxic fire retardants, such as formaldehyde or benzene. Crib mattresses are often coated in vinyl, which is waterproof but contains chemical plasticizers that leach and can be inhaled.

Because babies under two years of age are particularly vulnerable to environmental toxins, reducing chemical exposure and prioritizing a mattress with natural ingredients is essential. While there are a lot of organic crib mattress brands on the market—from niche organic cotton crib mattress brands to affordable organic crib mattress lines from larger manufacturers—here are nine sustainable brands making the best nontoxic crib mattresses for your little ones.

While you’re on the hunt for the best crib mattress, don’t forget to get a nontoxic crib! (We’ve got also you covered for organic crib sheets for your new organic baby mattress, and organic baby clothes while you’re at it!) Need your own mattress upgrade? Head here for our guide to the best affordable eco-friendly mattresses.

Best Overall | Most Affordable

1. Naturepedic

Natural & Nontoxic | Organic cotton, sugarcane PLA fibers
Sizes | Baby, mini, oval, twin
Ships To | Contiguous US & Canada
Price | Starts at $249

Naturepedic offers not one, not two, but three crib mattresses for your little one. Yet regardless of which you choose, they’re all 100 percent organic and waterproof. The waterproofing element is made from food-grade polyethylene that still meets fire safety and food contact standards. For maximum safety, Naturepedic’s mattresses are GOTS, MADE SAFE, and GREENGUARD GOLD certified. Enjoy a lifetime limited warranty and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Naturepedic Review | “My daughter loves sleeping in her crib and I think the mattress has everything to do with it. The outer covering is very easy to wash and put back on.“—Janelle, verified buyer

2. Saatva

Natural & Nontoxic | Organic cotton, natural latex, eucalyptus fibers, recycled steel coils
Sizes | Dual-sided crib mattress, kids, twin
Ships To | Contiguous US
Price | $355

Saatva is a leading disruptor in the mattress industry. All of Saatva’s products are made with plant-based materials and crafted in the USA. The Saatva Crib Mattress is essentially two beds in one, with one side focused on double-firm support for babies and the other with firm support for toddlers. Plus, the mattress is GREENGUARD GOLD, Cradle-To-Cradle, and OEKO-TEX certified, and treated with a water-repellent finish.

Saatva Review | “My husband and I shopped around for awhile for a crib mattress, which was a very daunting task—lots of options out there to set doubt in your mind about which is best for your child. Based on what to look for in our research we found that this was the best option!”—Lauren, verified reviewer (Read more reviews)

3. Avocado

Natural & Nontoxic | Organic cotton, organic latex, organic wool
Sizes | Dual-sided crib mattress, kids, twin
Ships To | US
Price | Starts at $349

Avocado, a leading name in the mattress industry, has created some of the most organic, sustainable, and well-crafted crib mattresses around. These baby beds are handmade at a GOTS and GOLS organic certified factory in Los Angeles with safe and natural materials—including organic cotton, wool, and latex. Avocado’s mattress makes our list for its organic ingredients and comfort. (I’ve literally napped on my daughter’s crib mattress because it’s that dreamy.) It’s also dual-sided for two levels of firmness to transition from baby to toddler stage. With a 25-year warranty, a 30-night trial, and a range of price points, this B Corp touts the very best.

Avocado Review | “Love that it’s non toxic and it’s so comfortable. Probably more comfortable than my bed. The fabric is so soft and the quality is great. Smells fresh too!”—Melissa T., verified buyer (Read more reviews)

Shop AVocado

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4. Brentwood Home

Natural & Nontoxic | Organic cotton
Sizes | Dual-sided crib mattress, kids, twin
Ships To | US
Price | $349

Brentwood Home’s waterproof crib mattress is designed for worry-free sleep. The recyclable PETE core is 90 percent air for breathability, includes two sides for babies and toddlers, and has an organic waterproof liner and removable cover. (The team has truly thought of it all!) Brentwood’s baby and kids’ mattresses are GREENGUARD GOLD certified, climate-neutral, and vegan—so it’s as safe for the planet as it is for your bundle of love.

Brentwood Home Review | “Couldn’t be happier with it! Makes me feel so much better knowing my child isn’t breathing in harmful chemicals from the old mattress and sleeping comfortably now.”—Kimberly C., verified buyer (Read more reviews)

5. Organic Dream

Natural & Nontoxic | Organic cotton
Sizes | Standard, mini, Pack and Play
Ships To | Contiguous US
Price | Starts at $80

Organic Dream makes crib mattresses in the USA from high quality materials that are GREENGUARD GOLD certified and hypoallergenic. The washable, breathable mattresses come with two stages of firmness to easily transition from infant to toddler sleep support. The #1 Pediatrician recommended mattress, the organic material is clean and free from
pesticides, fertilizers, and toxic chemicals. Your baby will rest easy so you can, too.

Organic Dream Review | “So good we had to get a second one for our little nephew that just arrived.” —Angela A. (Read more reviews)

6. Colgate

Natural & Nontoxic | Natural cotton, eco-friendly foam
Sizes | Crib mattress, mini, bassinet
Ships To | US
Price | Starts at $30

Colgate’s mattresses are as affordable as they are accessible, found at chains like Target and Bed Bath & Beyond. With various options, you can choose from the natural cotton crib mattresses or the foam mattresses made from plant oils and eco-friendly materials. Colgate mattresses are made in the USA, CertiPUR-US and GREENGUARD GOLD certified, and water- and tear-resistant (and some are baby/toddler adaptable, too). These baby mattresses check all the boxes.

Colgate Review | “We received the mattress and were able to put it in the crib right away. The mattress is really firm and will hold up very well…The extra money is worth it!”—Britney, verified purchaser

7. Nest Bedding

Natural & Nontoxic | Organic cotton, wool, & latex
Sizes | Crib mattress, kids, twin
Ships To | US & Canada
Price | $700

For the sweetest (and safest) dreams, Nest Bedding’s organic crib Stork mattress checks all the boxes. The latex, cotton, and wool used in Nest’s mattresses are GOTS, GOLS, and GREENGUARD GOLD certified—and production takes place at an eco-factory in northern California. Nest also offers oval-sized crib mattresses upon request, so your child can enjoy the best wherever they rest. While the price is a bit higher than most, you can sign up for zero percent APR budget-friendly financing.

Nest Bedding Review | “My little girl [loves] going to bed. She literally cannot wait to go to sleep on her Nest Bedding crib mattress at night…It has been great for her as she sleeps a little hot. Amazing product and we couldn’t be happier.”—Chris (Read more reviews)

8. Lullaby Earth

Natural & Nontoxic | Polyurethane-free foam
Sizes | Dual-sided crib mattress
Ships To | US
Price | $179

Lullaby Earth’s dual-stage mattress will have your baby sleeping soundly for years to come. Its lightweight core is made with 50 percent foam, and the waterproof surface is made with food-grade polyethylene (both of which are entirely recyclable!). It’s both MADE SAFE and GREENGUARD GOLD certified, and crafted without flame retardants, toxic chemicals, polyurethane foam, and more. Safe, sustainable, and stylish enough for any nursery or bedroom.

Lullaby Earth Review | “I have 4 kids, and this mattress is better than any cheap one we have tried. It’s comfortable, holds its shape, and fits great in the crib or toddler bed. Don’t hesitate- the customer service is excellent too!”—jenn4kids, Target review

9. Essentia

Natural & Nontoxic | Natural foam and latex, organic cotton
Sizes | Standard
Ships To | Contiguous US
Price | $699

Essentia‘s LaLa Organic Crib Mattress is ahead of the class when it comes to clean certifications. Their natural memory foam mattresses are GOLS and GOTS certified, as well as nontoxic, ethically sourced, and sustainably made. Designed to support and cradle your little one without restricting blood flow or emitting allergens, these thoughtfully made mattresses are vegan, cruelty free, and biodegradable to boot!

Essentia Review | “Love love it! My 18 month old daughter likes to sleep on her belly with her knees tucked up, and as soon as we switched to this mattress she had fewer night wake ups. I love the quality and love how comfortable it is for my little girl!”—Sophie S., Verified Buyer

Featured image is from Brentwood Home

The post The Healthiest Organic Crib Mattresses For Your Baby (2023) appeared first on The Good Trade.

Whether you’re currently expecting or trying to conceive, taking high-quality prenatal vitamins is essential when preparing your body for a baby. The daily supplement can help bridge nutrition gaps and contribute to a healthy pregnancy. Unfortunately, many prenatal vitamins on the market include subpar ingredients and even fillers. Not to mention, many of them have a strong taste or are difficult to stomach, especially in the first trimester. When doing our research, we also found many companies only target women with their prenatal supplements, forgetting that men also need supplements for fertility and conception.

Our editors searched far and wide to source the very best natural prenatal options for both men and women—to provide the vital nutrients you need for fetal development, sperm and egg quality, and maternal health. We also talked with our OBGYNs and healthcare providers to get their insight on the best brands, so you can trust the below recommendations are both editor-tested and doctor-recommended. Read on for our honest reviews about each prenatal brand, including what we thought about the taste, smell, and how many pills you need to take each day.

**This review is not health advice. Please talk to your OBGYN or healthcare provider before adding any supplements to your diet.

1. WeNatal

Natural | Natural, vegetarian, free from fillers and chemical binders, gluten-free, allergen friendly
Standout Features | Monthly subscriptions and bundles, third-party testing, sustainable packaging
Price | $59.95 for a 30-day supply (per person, three pills daily)

Conception is not a one-sided equation, and it shouldn’t be up to only one partner to prepare their bodies for a possible pregnancy. Enter WeNatal—a prenatal vitamin supplement brand serving couples with clean and science-backed formulas. The three prenatal pills for women have a whopping 400 mg of choline, and the WeNatal For Him contains 100 mcg of selenium (essential for sperm motility), among other antioxidants and nutrient-dense ingredients. As for taste/smell, we love the minty-essence and how easy these three capsules are to swallow at once. From beautiful packaging and travel cases to the family manifestation journal, WeNatal brings partners together and makes us feel less alone on a journey that can sometimes often feel isolating.

2. FullWell

Natural | Natural, bioavailable nutrients, non-GMO, allergen friendly
Standout Features | Made in the USA, developed by a registered dietician & fertility expert, monthly subscriptions, HSA/FSA eligible
Price | $49.95 for a 30-day supply subscription (eight per day)

FullWell was developed by Ayla Barmmer, a registered dietician, women’s health and fertility expert, and mama herself. What we love most about these prenatal vitamins are the stellar ingredients and that the formulas are non-GMO and third-party tested. While you do have to take four fairly large capsules twice a day, FullWell includes more choline, magnesium, and calcium than most prenatal vitamins on the market and ingredients in active, bioavailable forms. They are also free from allergens like soy, gluten, corn, and dairy. For us, that tradeoff is worth putting the best ingredients in our bodies to prepare for conception or during pregnancy/postpartum. That said, these may be harder to stomach while experiencing morning sickness (the smell is fairly strong and might be offputting if your scent is heightened) or if you have difficulty with pills. Still, it gets an A+ in our book. The monthly subscription and bundle options (the brand has fish oil, a nerve-calming tonic, and men’s prenatal) are great for saving on cost as well.

3. Seeking Health

Natural | Natural, bioavailable nutrients, vegetarian, non-GMO, gluten-free
Standout Features | Independently tested, monthly subscriptions
Price | $59.95 for a 30-day supply (eight per day)

Seeking Health carries a number of prenatal supplements in capsules and powders, but our favorite is the Optimal Prenatal Capsules for its five-star ingredients, including 800 mcg of folate and 250 mg of choline. Suitable for vegetarians and free from allergens and GMOs, these capsules contain all of the bioavailable nutrients our bodies (and future babies!) need for healthy development and pregnancy. Again, this one requires four capsules twice a day (a big ask, we know!), but the smell and taste are fairly subtle. We also love that Seeking Health has a prenatal powder you can sneak into your smoothies if you can’t manage the capsules. The best ingredients in multiple forms—a win, win!

4. Ritual

Natural | Natural, bioavailable nutrients, non-GMO, vegan
Standout Features | Monthly subscriptions, recycled packaging, traceable supply chain, eligible for FSA & HSA reimbursements
Price | $39 for a 30-day supply (two per day)

Ritual is more than just a leading name when it comes to natural supplements—the brand is also one of our neighbors, located in sunny SoCal. We love that these prenatals integrate a dozen clean (and fully traceable) nutrients responsibly sourced from around the world to guide us from pre- to post-pregnancy. The capsules are also vegan-friendly and free from gluten, allergens, and GMOs. What we love most though? The smell and color, of course. Choose from either citrus or mint (though we recommend citrus, especially for the morning) and allow yourself to smile while taking just two (yes, two!) golden capsules. Finally, a supplement that is fun and easy on our tummies.

5. Perelel Health

Natural | Natural, bioavailable nutrients, gluten-free, non-GMO
Standout Features | Monthly subscriptions, OBGYN-founded, reduced carbon footprint, eco-friendly packaging
Price | $48 for a 30-day supply (one pack of bundled vitamins per day)

For a brand that literally walks us through our pre- and post-conception journey, we love Perelel Health, founded specifically by an OBGYN. These prenatal vitamins with bioavailable ingredients are specific to each trimester (including a men’s multi-packs) for the most effective supplements, and the colorful and counter-friendly packaging isn’t terrible to look at either. When trying Perelel for ourselves, we loved the simplicity (trying to conceive is exhausting enough) and how travel-friendly the individual packets are. We took them on the road for a weekend trip and saved so much room in our suitcase. The supplements are also a no-nausea formula, and we had no issue getting these down in the morning on an empty stomach. Thanks to a Carbonfree partnership, Perelel supports carbon offset projects and uses eco-friendly packaging, which is better for you and the planet.

6. Needed

Natural | Bioavailable nutrients, non-GMO, allergen friendly, third-party tested
Standout Features | Monthly subscriptions and bundle options, made in the USA at an FDA, GMP and QAI Certified Organic facility, climate neutral, part of 1% for the planet, B Corp certified
Price | $69.99 for a 30-day supply of powder (save with subscription options)

Needed prenatal win in our book when it comes to taste and form. While the brand offers capsule supplements, we were most intrigued by the prenatal multi powder, which is formulated by perinatal and nutrition experts and packed with 400 mg of choline. We blended the vanilla powder into our morning smoothie and also tried it with nut milk (so delicious!). We also tried the ethically sourced prenatal collagen powder for extra protein dissolved in our morning coffee and couldn’t even taste it. We love that Needed—a certified B Corp—offers a wide range of supplements for all stages of conception and for men too. The sample packets make it easy to test and try before committing to a month’s supply.

The post 6 Best Prenatal Vitamins With Natural Ingredients appeared first on The Good Trade.

It can sometimes feel impossible to find the perfect gift for the person you want to celebrate most. Whether an aunt, a teacher, or another figure who helped mother and care for you at crucial crossroads in your life, Mother’s Day is the yearly reminder to pause and show them you appreciate their love.

We’ve pulled together some of our favorite treats and goodies from sustainable brands that will help us celebrate guilt-free. From cozy knits to tasty snacks, innovative sleep lamps and whimsical decor, we’ve got you covered to find the perfect token of your love and appreciation for the mama in your life.

1. Variety Snacking Gems, $34 | Hu Kitchen Chocolates

Does Mama have a sweet tooth? Gift her these high-quality snacking gems, the perfect fix for when the afternoon snack attack hits. With only the simplest, finest ingredients (no refined sugar, sugar alcohols, or soy lecithin, for starters), these organic, fair trade, gluten-free chocolates come in perfectly portioned single-serving size bags. The variety pack has two mint, two salty, and two simple, and are dreamy, vegan, and the perfect way to tell your mom to treat herself.

2. Giving Goddess Self-Care Kit, $32 | Saje

What better way to honor the woman who was your own “Giving Goddess” than with a luxurious self-care kit from Saje? This three-piece collection includes a jasmine, neroli, and ylang ylang roll-on to uplift her spirits; a soothing fizzy bath bomb; and a rose mist that will hydrate and nourish her skin. Treat her like the goddess she is with these sensuous aromatherapy goods.

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3. Mama Pendant, $95–$450 | Brilliant Earth

Looking to really splurge this year on something she’ll treasure forever? We love this gorgeous necklace from sustainable jewelry brand Brilliant Earth. With the word “mama” in a timeless script, this piece comes in sterling silver or 14K yellow gold, ethically made from recycled precious metals. And if you act fast, you can snag it during the brand’s 10 Days Of Gifting and receive a gifted jewelry item with your purchase from 5/2-5/11. (Mommy and me is not just for littles!)

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4. Mosser Glass Bathing Beauty Dish, $40 | Food 52

It’s all in the details, and these adorable little glass dishes are the perfect blend of practical and whimsical. Help your mama create a gorgeous moment with her jewelry on her nightstand, or add a fun point of interest to the hand soap in the powder room with these dishes shaped like bathing beauties. Or if your mama is the entertaining type, use these to hold olives, nuts, after-dinner mints, or even toothpicks to make any tablescape just that much more festive.

5. The Nap Ministry’s Rest Deck, $20 | Bookshop

While we are all inherently worthy of rest, it can be hard to break the habit of constantly being productive and checking off the to-do list. Enter the Nap Ministry. From author and activist Tricia Hersey, rest is presented as resistance: to grind culture, to social injustice, and to the idea that our value is somehow tied to our output. This extraordinary deck inspires, affirms, and connects your body and your mind so that you can truly pause and rest.

6. The Staycation Short Robe, $68 | Pact

Available in three beautiful prints, this luxurious and cute robe from TGT fave Pact will make any day spent at home feel like a cozy staycation. The super soft jersey knit has pockets and a removable belt, and it’s made in a fair trade factory from GOTS certified organic cotton. Upgrade your mom’s morning coffee with this beautiful robe (psst, there are matching sleep pants if she’s into pairing her jammies!).

7. Loftie Lamp, $249 | Loftie

For a deep sleep and gentle wake-up, we love the Loftie Lamp. This beautiful lamp is programmed to help guide your sleep cycles from dusk to dawn, with reading and wind-down modes, a red light mode that helps the body produce melatonin, and a sunrise alarm that gradually and gently wakes with a soft light that mimics the sun. With all the digital features we’ve come to rely on, but an analog feel and look, this is a lamp for even the most tech-nervous folks who are looking for light-based sleep support.

8. Pom Flower Bouquet, $28 | VERLOOP

Want the ceremony of cut flowers without the expiration date? We love this pom flower bouquet from VERLOOP. Perfect for the quirky, fun mama who loves a good knit, these colorful poms are made from deadstock acrylic yarn and set on sturdy yet flexible 12″ wire. Coming in two colorways that help provide a pop of vibrancy to any room, there are six poms in each bouquet. Pop ’em in a milk glass vase, and your mom can enjoy them for years to come.

9. Classic Easy Tote, $248 | Cuyana

For the lady who likes to be prepared, you can’t go wrong with this timeless tote from Cuyana. Made to last a lifetime, this versatile and beautiful bag is soft, lightweight, and designed to go anywhere. Choose from five classic colorways that never go out of style, or pick from one of the limited-release palettes like dark coral, sage, or biscuit–– perfect for the practical yet stylish mama who likes to stand out!

10. Hammered Signet Ring, $56–$64 | Hello Adorn

For a sentimental gift that she’ll wear every day, we love this dainty signet ring from Hello Adorn. Coming in sterling silver or 14K gold fill, each ring is handmade in Eau Claire, WI and made to order to eliminate waste. There is room to hand-stamp one initial per ring, so it would be a great sibling gift: what better way to keep the love of her children close than with this delicate reminder on her finger?

11. Cotton Weighted Blanket, $199–$279 | Bearaby

Oh, we love a nap blanket at TGT, and the weighted one from Bearaby is a particular fave! Give your mom the gift of a warm bear hug for her afternoon snooze with this absolutely gorgeous, cozy blanket. Choose from six calming colors and four weights, all in beautifully knit organic cotton. Made without fillers, this gift is as luxurious and soft as they come.

The post 11 Mother’s Day Gift Ideas From Sustainable Brands appeared first on The Good Trade.

Bodies change during pregnancy. As a person’s belly and baby grow, so too must their wardrobe—just one of the many ways a pregnant person can hope to remain comfortable for all nine months!

Whether you’re in your first trimester or well into your postpartum days, the following eco-friendly clothing brands offer comfortable and organic maternity clothes. Best yet, the brands are still cute and prioritize (sustainable) fashion!

Once baby arrives, check out these organic baby clothing brands and soothing, natural baby care products! ✨

1. Storq

Best For | Maternity basics
Standout Ethic | Fabrics are certified Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex®
Price Range | $48–$215

All too often, maternity clothes leaves a lot to be desired, but the team at Storq wants to create maternity basics and essentials you’ll wear again and again. Storq blends together OEKO-TEX certified safe fabrics, ethical production across the US, Peru, the Philippines, and China, and thoughtful design for maternity and nursing pieces you actually want to relax in.

2. Boob

Best For | European maternity clothing
Standout Ethic | Organic cotton, eco-friendly Tencel, & GOTS certified wool
Price Range | €29,95–€129,95

For European parents-to-be, Boob has your back (and belly!). Founder Mia Seipel understood that parents, like superheroes, deserve the right gear for their bodies. That’s why Boob’s line of nursing bras, feeding-friendly apparel, and maternity clothing are all crafted with organic and sustainable materials (and sent to you via climate-neutral shipping). Boob will be your new BFF through every phase of parenthood.

3. Pact

Best For | Affordable maternity clothes
Standout Ethic | Certified Fair Trade factories & practices
Price Range | $35–$80

For sustainable maternity basics that are affordable and activewear-friendly, Pact is our one-stop-shop. Made in certified Fair Trade factories using organic cotton, you can find tees, leggings, bras, and dresses for maternity and nursing, all of which can be worn through pregnancy and beyond. It’s better for the environment, for the makers, and for you and baby. Watch for sales—Pact often has seasonal offers and discounts.

4. Christy Dawn

Best For | Maternity dresses
Standout Ethic | Made with deadstock fabric
Price Range | $148–$498

Christy Dawn makes the dreamiest dresses, and because so many are designed to be loose-fitting, they are perfect for your growing belly. This sustainable brand uses flowy silhouettes, feminine patterns, and eco-friendly fabrics for its beloved collection, with sizes from Petite XS to 3X. Our favorite part: Christy Dawn uses leftover deadstock fabrics and new organic cotton from a partner farm in India focused on regenerative farming practices. These pieces are perfect for everyday or special occasions—whatever your style.

5. Isabella Oliver

Best For | UK maternity clothes
Standout Ethic | Certified B Corp
Price Range | £25–$119

Style, sustainability, and social responsibility all go hand-in-hand with Isabella Oliver. This UK-based maternity brand is a certified B Corp, with ethics like donating 10 percent of proceeds every year, offering garment recycling, and sourcing fabrics locally to minimize carbon footprints. Find all sorts of fashion-forward maternity clothes in addition to discounted pre-loved options. It’s no wonder Isabella Oliver has been named the top maternity shop in the UK by Trustpilot. Ships across the UK, EU, and US.

6. Cosabella

Best For | Maternity bras and lingerie
Standout Ethic | Handcrafted in Italy
Price Range | $25–$98

Our go-to for stunning handmade Italian lingerie, Cosabella makes nursing-friendly bras and pajamas, too. This maternity-friendly lingerie is made from high-quality fabrics and natural dyes, and the lace nursing bras are available in sizes up to 40DD (3X). Plus, these colorful and functional garments are made in a family-run factory in Italy. Cute without sacrificing comfort? Sign us up!

7. Sézane

Best For | Maternity capsule wardrobes
Standout Ethic | Certified B Corp powered by renewable energy
Price Range | $25–$195

Know any super stylish parents-to-be? Send them some pieces from Sézane! With a “9 Months in Sézane” maternity capsule collection, this sustainable brand has cozy-yet-chic sweaters, sensual dresses, and Parisian-inspired button-downs and jumpers. Sézane fabrics include more than 75 percent sustainable materials, including OEKO-TEX certified linen and RWS certified merino wool. And everything’s ethically produced, powered by renewable energy, and packaged in recyclable materials! It’s the timeless wardrobe you’ll turn to time and time again, from pregnancy to postpartum.

8. Dwell & Slumber

Best For | Casual maternity dresses & robes
Standout Ethic | Sewn & made in California
Price Range | $64

Flowy dresses often become closet staples during pregnancy. Dwell & Slumber’s modern housedresses aren’t any different. Using buttery soft fabrics, all the dresses are ethically made in California under fair labor standards, meaning you can be home with your family at the end of the day and so can Dwell & Slumber’s seamstresses. Crafted to be both bump- and nursing-friendly, these affordable caftan, cocoon, and swing dresses (and some robes!) are effortless and elegant.

9. Warp & Weft

Best For | Maternity denim and overalls
Standout Ethic | Sustainable materials & factory practices
Price Range | $88–$98

Focused on sustainable denim for the whole family, Warp & Weft also serves parents-to-be, with bump-friendly maternity jeans. As a family-owned business working alongside one of the top eco-friendly textile mills in the world, the team prioritizes recycling water and fabrics, responsibly sourcing materials, and safe working environments. Warp & Weft carries maternity sizes through 3X.

10. Prende Pants

Best For | Safe compression leggings (for post-pregnancy)
Standout Ethic | Recycled materials
Price Range | $89

For post-pregnancy, we love the Prende Pants created by birth doula and CEO, TQ Evans. With a high-waist and four stages of adjustable compression, these belly-wrapping pants help support your body as it recovers from birth. They’re also said to feel like a secure and gentle hug, which can help with balancing your mood and offering emotional support. The Prende Pants are made at a Black- and woman-owned factory in the USA with a mix of majority recycled polyester and spandex. The packaging is eco-friendly, too!

11. Rent The Runway

Best For | Special events & occasion dresses
Standout Ethic | 100% of carbon emissions offset
Price Range | $30+; subscription rentals available

Your body will change and evolve over the next nine months (and well…also, every day), and that’s why we love Rent The Runway for its subscription rental model. Whether you need a one-time baby shower dress or a flexible wardrobe as you near the third trimester, RTR makes it easy to find fashion-forward minis, maxis, and everything in between. Everything’s cleaned using eco-friendly practices between wears, sent to you in reusable packaging, and free of carbon emissions from shipping. If you’re looking for special occasion pieces for work and play, we encourage you to check out Rent the Runway’s monthly plans and one-off rentals.

Featured image from Sézane

The post 10 Sustainable Maternity Brands With Organic Materials appeared first on The Good Trade.

Family planning involves many moving parts: Understanding our menstrual cycles, diagnosing any fertility concerns, communicating our wants and needs with partners. As ovulation only happens for a few days each cycle, it’s important to pinpoint our fertile window, whether we’re trying to conceive or not. This is especially true for those of us with irregular menstrual cycles, as we can’t always rely on tracking apps to give us a heads up. 

“Knowing when we ovulate can make us feel both empowered and educated about our bodies.”

Ovulation tests can help take the guesswork out of the equation, especially when paired with basal body thermometers and cervical mucus tracking. Knowing when we ovulate can make us feel both empowered and educated about our bodies. It can also give us the information we need to make the most informed decisions about our families and future.

We’ve found the five best ovulation tests to consider below—many are doctor-developed and OBGYN-approved, regulated with the FDA, and eligible for reimbursement if you have a Health Savings Account or Flexible Savings Account. Some also have tracking apps, community groups you can join, and personalized guidance!

If pregnancy isn’t your goal, consider these birth control brands sent straight to your door. Or, if you’re hoping to conceive in the near future, these prenatal vitamins can help bridge any nutritional gaps and prepare your body for pregnancy.

Ovulation tests detect luteinizing hormone (LH) in your urine, which is the hormone that triggers the ovary to release an egg. Every person’s body is different, but generally LH levels begin to rise mid-follicular phase, or a week or two after your period ends, marking the beginning of your “fertile window.” 

You want to watch for two lines when peeing on an ovulation stick (alternatively, you can do the cup-and-dip method): one control line and one test line. Like with pregnancy tests, if there isn’t a control line, that means the test is faulty and you need to test again. Otherwise, you want to pay attention to the test line to help determine where your LH levels are at. 

“LH levels begin to rise mid-follicular phase, or a week or two after your period ends, marking the beginning of your ‘fertile window.’”

Testing in both the morning and evening is recommended. You don’t need to use morning urine with ovulation strips, unlike with pregnancy tests. As you progress in your fertile window, you’ll notice the test line gets darker until it is as dark as or darker than the control line (photos for reference). This signals an LH surge (or peak), meaning one of your ovaries is about to release an egg (often within 24 to 36 hours). 

If you’re trying to get pregnant, these hours are optimal for conception—though sperm can live for up to five days, so sex leading up to your LH surge may also result in pregnancy. If you are using natural planning for contraception and do not want to get pregnant, you will want to avoid vaginal intercourse leading up to your surge and for a few days after. 

Once ovulation occurs, you can also keep testing to see how your LH levels begin to drop, and the line will become lighter again. This signals the end of your “fertile window” and the second half of your cycle—called the luteal phase (or “two-week wait”).  

Again, this is all very dependent on the person, hormone levels, and the average length and regularity of menstrual cycles. Tracking apps can be helpful for noticing patterns and trends in your cycle month over month, and many allow you to upload photos of your ovulation tests. No matter your reason for tracking, here are the best ovulation test strips (with a range of pricing options)!

1. Modern Fertility

Features | HSA & FSA eligible, Modern Fertility tracking app, online community, available in select stores
Ships To | US
Price | $16 for 20 tests; discounted subscriptions available

Modern Fertility makes fertility essentials for people with ovaries—whether you’re trying for kids or not. We’re big fans of its Ovulation Tests because they’re affordable at $0.80 per strip, alongside a tracking app that shares customized predictions about your cycle over time. MF even has an online community so you can ask questions and find the support you need, as well as a robust resource library to learn more about fertility, including topics on egg freezing, thyroid levels, and PCOS.

2. Natalist

Features | FDA registered, HSA & FSA eligible, certified plastic-neutral, ethically produced, available in select stores
Ships To | Continental US
Price | $30 for ten tests, discounted bundles available

Take control of your fertility with Nahttps://natalist.sjv.io/c/274622/1588704/18413?subId1=bm-web-pg-&u=https%3A%2F%2Fnatalist.com%2Ftalist’s Ovulation Tests. These LH surge strips come with clear, easy-to-understand instructions to help make understanding our bodies a bit easier. Plus, Natalist’s ovulation strips are registered with the FDA, eligible for reimbursement via HSAs or FSAs, and are stocked at stores like RiteAid, Target, and Albertsons. We recommend grabbing the bundles; you’ll receive 10 plastic-neutral ovulation tests and 4 pregnancy tests for $40.

3. Mira

Features | FDA listed, HSA & FSA eligible, Mira smartphone app 
Ships To | Worldwide
Price | $199 for kit, bundles & subscriptions available

If you’re looking to go in depth with your fertility tracking, look no further than Mira. This powerful fertility analyzer is developed by in-house scientists and OBGYNs to detect precise hormonal changes and interactions for accurate results. Mira’s technology acts like an ‘at-home fertility lab’— and measures 3 fertility hormones to provide detailed and easy-to-read ovulation predictions and fertile windows. The best part is that they ship worldwide with warehouses in the USA, UK, Canada and more!

4. Stix

Features | FDA registered, HSA & FSA eligible
Ships To | US
Price | $19 for seven tests; discounted multipacks & subscriptions available

Stix’s mission is to offer “OBGYN-approved and discreetly delivered fertility and vaginal health products.” Sent to you in a plain white envelope—and seen on your bank statement as “GS INC”—this brand is all about privacy and respecting your needs. The tests themselves are 99 percent accurate, designed by women and backed by doctors, and are free of confusing jargon. Choose between a box of seven or twenty-eight tests with 15% off monthly subscriptions.

5. Bird&be

Features | HSA & FSA eligible, add-on reusable collection cup, less plastic than traditional ovulation tests
Ships To | US & Canada
Price | $12 for 9 tests, subscriptions available

Bird&bee understands the frustrations involved in successful fertility tracking—which is why they have made it easy to access ovulation tests no matter where you are in your fertility journey. Its budget-friendly ovulation tests use less plastic waste making them an eco-friendly option in comparison to traditional ovulation tests—you also have the option to purchase a reusable, collapsable collection cup for a small fee. The brand utilizes an inclusive approach to help you understand your fertility with handy quizzes and testing guides on their website.

6. Inito

Features | FDA registered, HSA & FSA eligible, Inito iPhone app, test refills available
Ships To | US
Price | $149 for kit

Inito takes a people first approach when it comes to the design of its lab-grade fertility monitor. You can measure 4 different hormones on a single ovulation test strip making it sustainable and efficient to use—and the included iPhone attachment clip provides testing and personalized results right on your device. You can order ovulation test refills on the Inito app and even set up reminders based on your individual hormone variations!

7. Pregmate

Features | Plastic-free packaging, available in stores
Ships To | Worldwide
Price | $10.95 for 25 tests

For an affordable, accessible, and more sustainable option, consider Pregmate. These tests are sold online and in stores (like Target), and you can get up to 100 ovulation test strips for about $20—and all without a plastic holder! These tests are 99 percent accurate and easy to use, whether you’re trying to conceive, trying not to conceive, or just want to understand your cycle better. You can even upload a photo of the test to your favorite tracking app to analyze and monitor your LH reading.

8. Proov

Features | FDA registered, HSA & FSA eligible, Proov smartphone app, online community
Ships To | US, Canada, Australia & New Zealand
Price | Starting at $54

Get your ovulation test results in just 10 minutes with Proov. Their collection of fertility tests and trackers are available at all different price points ensuring you can find an option that works with your budget—the brand also offers a Hers and His Fertility Starter Kit for partners who are looking to conceive. Proov provides 1:1 support alongside a private Facebook group—allowing you to share and gain insight on valuable fertility and hormone knowledge with other likeminded community members.

9. Oova

Features | FDA registered, HSA & FSA eligible, Oova smartphone app
Ships To | US
Price | $159.99 for kit, refillable cartridges & subscriptions available

Designed to increase chances of conception, Oova’s kit is one that both partners can use in their TTC journey. It includes a handle, stand, and 15 urine strips for the month (with the option to order refills), as well as access to the Oova app for cycle analysis and actionable steps. We love that Oova gives updates, tasks, and action plans for both partners—so you’re not alone on the journey.

Featured image from Modern Fertility

The post 9 Best Ovulation Test Strips And Fertility Trackers For 2023 appeared first on The Good Trade.

When I was 25, I experienced an unplanned pregnancy, followed by an enormously difficult postpartum period. Anyone who’s had an unplanned pregnancy will understand the catch-up game that you play for the first years of your baby’s life when you had neither put aside financial resources nor planned your life around the arrival of another. 

When I fell pregnant, I left my job and my life in Bangkok, Thailand, where I’d been living, and flew home to my small seaside hometown to live back with my parents. I had planned on traveling through Southeast Asia and then applying for my master’s degree. Instead, I was unemployed, without healthcare, and back home with my folks in South Africa. To say I felt like a failure was an understatement. Despite planning a home birth that I thought would be empowering, childbirth ended up being traumatic, to the point where I suffered from PTSD afterward that required years of therapy and medication. 

“I remember thinking: we are about to be—permanently, irrevocably—a one-child family, society’s expectations be damned.”

My relief, then, when my partner told me he was getting a vasectomy, was two-part. I remember thinking: we are about to be—permanently, irrevocably—a one-child family, society’s expectations be damned. I was also deeply thankful never to have to worry that we’d repeat the same shock-recover cycle that was my first few years of parenthood. We could finally have stress-free sex without spending every intimate moment together worrying that the condom would break or or or. 

The vasectomy signaled the official closing of a chapter; the shutting of a door (insert any number of clichés that connote the end of something). It put to bed all the number of scenarios about potentially expanding our family, scenarios that constantly flitted through my mind like flies that needed swatting.

What if we have another child? What if we want one later on? What if our son needs a sibling?

Don’t get me wrong: in theory, I’d love to have more kids. In theory. I’d love for my son to have a sibling to play with and for him to grow up knowing that he had that kind of forever friend who’d always have his back. I really, really wish I had it in me to want this badly enough to slog through the pregnancy cravings, broken sleep and, eventually, toddler tantrums. But the truth is that I struggled enormously during my postpartum period, and, having bipolar disorder, there’s a high chance I’d struggle with my mental health again. 

“Is it so wrong that I simply don’t want to do any of it again?”

Nevermind the nine months of gestation or its aftermath, the cracked nipples and 3 a.m. feeds, baby-proofing my house. My son had silent reflux and fitful sleep that interrupted my own and made me feel like a milk-filled maniac for the first few years of his life. Is it so wrong that I simply don’t want to do any of it again?

There’s also the climate crisis: a not-so-small detail in the whether-or-not-we-should-have-kids conversation (although, forgive me, I’ve written it in as a footnote here). As Jessica Gaitán Johannesson wrote in (Not) Bringing Children Into a World in Crisis for LitHub, “We have never seen a world like this one before.” I’m not sure I can parent another child through it, not knowing what kind of future is waiting for them. 

For a very long time, I dreamed about my future children. I saw my son’s face before he was born and another child’s in a daydream I had during yoga class in my 20s. And while dreamwork is an important aspect of being a writer, living in or through this world is not possible, not when the tangible is right in front of me in all its terrifying, beautiful flesh and blood. 

My partner’s vasectomy has wiped these dreams from my mind, and this extra mental space has given me room to reimagine my life—our lives—and to play with the time that we’ve been given rather than yield to the what ifs of imaginary beings. We’re learning and relearning our shape as a family of three, stretching our limbs into the spaces and feeling for the give, for the more that awaits us as we all grow up together. Without a small baby’s feeding or nap schedule to dictate our days, it’s easier for us to plan trips, go out at the drop of a hat or be spontaneous. I can concentrate on other aspects of my life, like my writing career and my rich friendship circle, and appreciate my little boy for the unique person that he is growing up to be without seeing him as someone’s potential big brother. Mornings of lime milkshakes and beach walks and afternoons filled with wooden sword-building and Nerf gun wars await.

There was a curious happiness that overtook me the day that my partner had the actual procedure. All too often, the onus is placed on the partner who has the uterus to control their fertility, whether that’s staying on the pill, getting an IUD or tying your tubes, and so I was grateful that my partner was taking this into his hands. I realized that for the first time since I’d fallen pregnant with our son, it was my partner who was now in the hot seat and undergoing a procedure for our family. I didn’t have to endure an internal examination or the cool gel of the ultrasound wand, or the invasiveness of childbirth. Splayed legs and IUD insertions and gigantic, pill-inflated breasts were about to be a thing of the past. 

In turn, I had to respect his need to regain his sense of bodily autonomy after years of fearing another contraceptive failure. 

“With this gentle ceasing of what ifs has come a sense of peace and togetherness that I hadn’t anticipated.”

There are no longer any dream children wafting through my mind. Those imaginary beings are gone, and with this gentle ceasing of what ifs has come a sense of peace and togetherness that I hadn’t anticipated. In the past, I handed over my body to doctors to bring life into this world, and now, in a fitting tribute to our health and future happiness, in a move that has embodied all his love and familial responsibility, my partner has handed his body over to doctors to stop it. And nothing has ever made me feel so loved or cherished.

Megan Ross is a writer, editor and journalist from South Africa. She is the author of Milk Fever (uHlanga Press), a poetry collection, and has received critical acclaim for her short fiction, essays and poetry. She currently lives on the Wild Coast with her partner and son.

The post Joy To The ‘Snip’—How I Know We’re Not Having Another Baby appeared first on The Good Trade.

Having a baby changes things from minute one. From prenatal vitamins and pregnancy pillows, nursery essentials and birth classes, picking a name for baby—there’s so much to do! But while so many lists are baby-centered, there’s one other person who needs extra care after the baby arrives: you!

The twelve weeks postpartum, commonly referred to as the fourth trimester, is the essential, precious, exhausting time when you get to bond with your baby earthside. And if you were a birthing parent, your body will be recovering from the experience, in need of lots of tender care and attention. Vaginal births can cause tears and bleeding, and C-sections are major surgeries that need specific care. Stocking up each bathroom with ready-to-use recovery kits may not be as *cute* as finding the perfect onesie, but we promise you that you’ll appreciate the foresight more than you know. 

Here is our list of essential postpartum products to help your body heal during the fourth trimester.  

1. Rael Organic Cotton Pads | $9+

We love Rael’s organic cotton pads for their clean ingredients and high absorbency—key for postpartum vaginal bleeding. We also love the reusable organic cotton pads which are washable, odorless, and come in four sizes. And for those first bleary-eyed days when you’re getting used to the new routine, try their disposable organic cotton cover period underwear for the ultimate protection that is also safe and completely leak-free. 

2. Perelel Multi Support Pack | $58

Formulated by a panel of obstetricians and maternal-fetal medicine doctors, Perelel makes vitamin packs for all stages of a woman’s life. Their Mom Multi-Support Pack includes a full-spectrum multivitamin plus added Omegas for brain and mood support. There’s also a beauty booster for hair, skin, and nails, which are all subject to big changes. The anti-stress blend rounds out this carefully crafted pack of pills that are no-nausea, non-GMO, gluten- and soy-free, and always without synthetic dyes or fillers. Get a discount when you sign up for a subscription!

3. Nyssa Reusable Ice/Heat Packs | $11

No one can fully prepare you for the challenges of breastfeeding, but this set of two ice/heat packs from Nyssa sure can help! These soft, moldable packs can be heated or frozen to ease the tenderness and discomfort that can occur from engorgement, clogged ducts, and more. These foldable packs are easy to store and tote to work, and are designed to fit comfortably around the nipple on any breast size. Simply fit into your nursing bra and let the cold or heat therapy work its magic. 

4. Frida Mom Upside Down Peri Bottle | $13

If you’ve just given birth, you’ll find that going to the bathroom for the first few weeks is… a bit of an adventure! The idea of using regular ol’ toilet paper can fill new moms with fear, particularly if there’s been any tearing or if there are stitches present. Enter: the peri bottle! Every postpartum mama’s new best friend is this lightweight, easy-to-use, handheld bidet, which will make using the toilet feel that much easier. Our tip? Stash one in every bathroom, so you’re never stranded at the crucial moment. And be sure to add it to the hospital bag checklist!

5. Earth Mama Organic Perineal Balm | $15

If you’ve been pregnant, chances are you are familiar with your perineum: the area between the anus and vulva. Before birth, we are often advised to administer massage to the area to help increase flexibility for the big event, and that TLC is still needed afterward. We love natural remedies like Earth Mama’s Organic Perineal Balm, with its organic blend of witch hazel, lavender, peppermint and other fragrant botanicals that soothe, cool, and provide relief. Trust us on this one! Pop it in the fridge to enhance its cooling effects.

6. Hatch 4th Trimester Nesting Bundle | $298

The 4th Trimester Nesting Bundle has everything you need to feel cozy enough to drop into naps as needed while still managing to look cute for the unexpected visitor. Functionality meets comfort with this extra soft robe, the jogger that both gives you room and holds you in, and a stretchy nursing-friendly bra that’s snug yet comfy enough to sleep in. Top it off with a nipple and lip rescue balm that’s jam-packed with superfruits and tropical butters that provides relief and smells great.

7. Pact Maternity Nursing Bralette | $35

This organic cotton nursing bra is a dream! Stretchy yet sturdy, it keeps its shape and wirelessly supports your breasts while making those cluster feeds just that little bit more manageable. If you’ve never been a sleeping bra person before but you’re finding that engorgement has you on the lookout, call off the search: The crossover style helps to not only make nursing more accessible but also prevents the dreaded uniboob. It comes in five colors and is made in a Fair Trade factory with GOTS certified organic cotton. 

8. Bink Mama Bottle | $38  

Trying to reach your daily hydration goals can be a challenge at the best of times, but during those hectic months of pregnancy and breastfeeding it can seem impossible. This adorable water bottle from Bink makes getting in your water a cinch—made of sustainable glass with a thick protective silicone sleeve (totally kid-proof, according to the reviews!), it provides a simple guide to keep your hydration on track. It’s even dishwasher safe!

9. Natalist Magnesium Plus | $32

This raspberry-flavored magnesium powder from Natalist is the ideal supplement for bone health and rest support. With the perfect blend of magnesium, calcium, and vitamin D3, this GMP certified, vegetarian, and gluten-free powder is okay to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Not only is it safe, and essential for helping in calcium absorption, but it is also delicious! Simply stir it into water until it turns pink, and enjoy!

10. Bodily Scheduled C-Section Box | $139

Cross off your entire hospital bag checklist and your postpartum supplies in one fell swoop with this all-in-one box from Bodily. With everything from your peri bottle to cozy socks, this box has got it covered. They’ve even added a belly band for c-section recovery! We also love the two support books for the birthing parent and the support partner—talk about having all bases covered!

11. The First Forty Days by Heng Ou | $33

Based on the Chinese zuo yuezi, the period after birth when the mother rests, recovers, and bonds with her baby, this book by Heng Ou offers advice, recipes, and guidance for caring for the mother during this special time. With 60 simple recipes for meals, snacks, and even teas that calm and offer lactation support, this book provides a lifeline for new parents navigating the fourth trimester.

Featured image is from Hatch

The post 11 Postpartum Essentials For The Fourth Trimester appeared first on The Good Trade.

Now more than ever, gender-neutral names are widely accepted and respected—open to interpretation and uninhibited from the binary. We’ve found 26 baby names from around the globe, derived from values like strength, joy, and kindness, whose power will permeate beyond sex or gender.

Do you know of any other pronunciations of these names? Do you have a favorite gender-neutral name? Share them in the comments below!

The post 26 Gender-Neutral Baby Names For 2023 appeared first on The Good Trade.

At my six week postpartum appointment my OB/GYN pronounced me “Ready for sex!” I stared at her in a stunned kind of stupor until the silence was finally broken by a maniacal, unhinged laughter you might attribute to a cartoon villain. I was somewhat surprised to learn a moment later that this Cruella DeVil cackle was coming from my own mouth. 

Sex? Sex? As in, my husband touching my naked body? Putting parts of his body inside of the canal that just produced a human baby? Touching the nipples that I latched and unlatched said baby to dozens of times a day, before smearing them in ointment? Do you not realize that there has been a coup here? “No, thank you,” I finally said. But secretly, I was terrified: Didn’t I love my husband and want to touch him? 

“Didn’t I love my husband and want to touch him?” 

I was lucky to have an incredible doula who was available to me postpartum, and I texted her about what I was experiencing. “You’re touched out,” she wrote. Olivia was a mother of six, and I trusted her completely. “Look, until you start breastfeeding, you’re only used to having your nipples sucked intermittently, but now they’re in near-constant use. It’s a lot!” (Before I go on, dear reader, I ask that we allow a suspension of the compulsory comments on the beauty of motherhood and babies. I love my daughter; she’s amazing. Becoming a mother was also really hard, and we don’t give ourselves enough space to talk about that. But I am going to try here.)

I had never heard of the term “touched out” before. After some sleuthing online, I learned that it is an extremely common though little researched experience for women in the fourth trimester– or, the three months postpartum. I learned that while it’s often associated with breastfeeding, it can be triggered by any number of the daily activities required of childcare: the constant holding, the crying, the sticky residues on every surface, the bright inane noises of battery-operated baby toys, the tiny hands and feet that pinch and pull and push and swat, all day, every day. Not to mention the endless bodily fluids and stinking diapers. Parenting is an assault on all senses, so it’s no wonder that some mothers find themselves disinterested in being touched by anyone else. But for me, a former self-described hugger, I felt like the root of my aversion went deeper. 

“I was unprepared for how parenting advice and conventional wisdom would erase my personhood.”

I was unprepared for how parenting advice and conventional wisdom would erase my personhood. Attachment and gentle parenting are popular styles that require (in this writer’s opinion) a dismissal of the caregiver’s preferences, basic needs, desires, boundaries, and personality. Couple this with the fact that my baby did not yet regard me as a person but as a location, and I felt myself fading away. I was my body, and my body was a place. And it was also, as the writer and academic Amanda Montei says, “transport, toy, chair, napkin, utensil, and comfort object.” All of the ways I was used to existing were obliterated by this new, heavy and enormous costume of The Mother. 

I spoke with Montei, whose upcoming book “Touched Out” explores care and consent in contemporary motherhood. “American parenting advice is extremely child-centered, marketed primarily toward women, and most often completely divorced from the sociopolitical context in which we parent,” Montei said. “The concept of feeling ‘touched out’ speaks to a lot of feelings: anger, a lack of autonomy, overwhelm, overstimulation, confusion, isolation.” This, combined with an onslaught of momfluencers who make parenting look gorgeous and easy, and a 24-hour news cycle that makes it hard to want to leave the house, can compound an already overwhelming situation into a self-doubting black hole. “Fleeing is a protective measure,” said Montei. “For me, it was rarely my kids I was fleeing— it was the news, the advice, the internalized expectations, the conditions of parenting in America, and the persistent feeling that a lot of my life was pre-written.”

“American parenting advice is extremely child-centered, marketed primarily toward women, and most often completely divorced from the sociopolitical context in which we parent.”

Amanda Montei, Author of Touched Out

So why hadn’t I ever heard of this before? Why weren’t the moms sharing? I suspect shame is the culprit: shame over not performing motherhood “right,” of being afraid of admitting that we weren’t being a “good” one. Shame keeps us from potentially disappointing or upsetting someone else, but it also prevents us from getting support. And crucially, this kind of silence misses an opportunity to prepare and support new parents, potentially preventing them from continuing the cycle. 

So here it is: when I was touched out, I was enraged. Not hangry, not PMS-y, not irritated. It was the wrath of a volcanic, Hulk-like god that would cause me to shake with fury. I wanted to flip tables, throw my dishes at the wall. More than once, I would put my baby down and walk away while she cried, setting a timer for a few minutes before I could go back and pick her up. For the first time in my life, I realized that those parents who accidentally shook their babies weren’t monsters, but just overtired, underprepared, and undersupported people who got caught in a horrific, life-altering moment. There’s a reason that sleep deprivation is used as a type of military tactical torture, and yet for some reason, we still expect new parents to continue to not only go to work but also to drive themselves there. 

“The thing about rage is that it signals urgency: This was a problem that could not be put off.”

The thing about rage is that it signals urgency: This was a problem that could not be put off. My husband and I started identifying my triggers together, starting with noise. I ordered ear plugs that took the decibel level of daily life down several notches, and we started watching TV with the volume down low and the closed captions on. Prioritizing sleep meant sleeping in separate bedrooms after my baby dropped her night feeding. I started a Sunday morning practice that I keep to this day, where I get to be completely alone from wake up until noon (my husband gets Saturdays!). 

I’d never had much of an issue with social media before, but as a new mom, I learned that scrolling is a kind of confrontation, an unrelenting flow of opinions and assertions that would sometimes fill me with feelings of inadequacy. So I unfollowed all the mommy and parenting expert accounts. “Caring for children is creative, skilled work, and of course we all want better tools on hand,” Montei said. “But if experts are not also talking about how parental triggers and struggles are connected to the alienation, loneliness, disempowerment, and exhaustion characteristic of American parenthood…then the advice just creates more unrealistic standards and demands.” Now, I selectively check in on a few parenting accounts, but it’s a conscious choice, not a scrolling confrontation. Mindless scrolls through my feed today only show flowers, art, celebrity crushes, and friends. 

Becoming a mother is a developmental phase, in the same way that adolescence is: There are actual neurobiological changes, along with social adjustments and skill-building that have to be practiced and learned. One of the muscles I needed to build was not just the ability to recognize I needed space and to ask for it, but to also cope with the guilt I would feel when I took that space. We need to prepare each other, to speak more plainly and honestly about what we are experiencing, because we might find that we are not only not alone, but there is a community of people who have been through it, and who can help us navigate the more terrifying terrain. 

When I asked Montei if she thought it got any easier as you gain experience as a mother, she said that matrescence is a phase that can last a lifetime. But to new mothers learning to navigate this space, especially when feeling touched out, she advises, “Recognizing that our reactions to the era we’re in are reasonable, rather than a mark of our failing, feels like the best first step.”

Stephanie H. Fallon is a writer originally from Houston, Texas. She has an MFA from the Jackson Center of Creative Writing at Hollins University. She lives with her family in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, where she writes about motherhood, artmaking, and work culture. You can find her on Instagram or learn more on her website.

The post How I Coped With Feeling “Touched Out” As A New Mom appeared first on The Good Trade.

Nutrients are critical to your baby’s growth, especially during those first two years. Organic baby food is a great option for your little ones as they reach developmental milestones.

From berry blends to finger foods, these organic meals can be delivered right to your doorstep. Simply choose the menus or plans that work best, set your preferred subscription, and expect these made-to-order meals in no time at all. Watch out Gerber, there are new baby food labels in town!

Baby not eating solids just yet? Here are our favorite organic baby formulas to consider.

1. Yumi

Ethics | USDA certified organic, gluten-, preservative-, & dairy-free, big-9 allergen-free, no added sugar, recyclable packaging
Food Types | Puree blends, pinchables & finger foods, multivitamins, snacks
Delivers To | Continental US
Subscription Pricing | Starting at $5/day

Get fresh, whole meals for your little one with Yumi’s yummy baby food. Its innovative line of blends, pinchables, finger foods, snacks, and Biteamins meets your baby where they are, based on suggested ages. Yumi has even won the Clean Label Project’s Purity Award for its blends. Simply pick the plan that works for you, and expect freshness (in a recyclable box) once a week!

2. Little Spoon

Ethics | USDA-certified organic ingredients, big-8 allergen-free, GMO-, preservative, & additive-free, recyclable packaging
Food Types | Puree blends, toddler & child meals, natural boosters, snack smoothies
Delivers To | Continental US
Subscription Pricing | Starting at $3/Babyblends, $5/Plates

Little Spoon takes mealtime off your plate with its fresh organic baby food. These blends are made in small batches with certified organic ingredients, including mangos, broccoli, and avocado. Plus, Little Spoon’s meals stay fresh in your freezer for up to three months—so you can plan in advance! There’s a rotating menu for every stage of your baby’s development, all free of the major allergens. It’s never been easier to keep your little one healthy.

3. Tiny Organics

Ethics | 100 percent organic, plant-based ingredients, Big-8 allergen-free, recyclable packaging
Food Types | Breakfast, lunch, & dinner bowls, family time meals, lactation bites
Delivers To | Continental US
Subscription Pricing | Starting at $4.66/meal

Tiny Organics’s mission is to make easy, thoughtful, and plant-based meals for your little ones. These fully organic foods—like strawberry rhubarb oatmeal and coconut curry—are intentionally tailored for developmental milestones, thanks to a team of neonatal nutritionists. Tiny is so good even Former First Lady Michelle Obama speaks highly of them! A proud partner of Veggies Early and Often, the brand is committed to improving the food landscape for the tiniest eaters through a veggie-forward approach.

4. Once Upon A Farm

Ethics | Certified B Corp, organic, GMO- & preservative-free, recyclable packaging, gives back
Food Types | Fruit & veggie blends, smoothies, overnight oats, yogurts, plant-based meals
Delivers To | Continental US
Subscription Pricing | Starting at $4.69/meal

Once Upon A Farm is a certified B Corp started by a mom you may have heard of: actress, farmer, and activist Jennifer Garner. The team aims to nurture our children and the planet simultaneously, creating farm-to-fridge blends that everyone loves. The organic, cold-pressed, and most importantly, no mess options come in a variety of flavors, like green kale and apple or blueberry and spinach. Try the meals for plant-based, nutrient-rich choices that can be mashed up, pureed, or served as finger food.

5. Serenity Kids

Ethics | USDA certified organic, ethically sourced meats, GMO- & preservative-free, eco-friendly packaging
Food Types | Meat pouches, veggie pouches, bone broth pouches, grain-free puffs, toddler formula
Delivers To | Continental US
Subscription Pricing | Starting at $20.95/6 pouches

Serenity Kids offers convenient kid food without compromise. Started by two parents themselves, these meals are made with pasture-raised meats from small American farms, organic vegetables from farmers using regenerative practices, and grain-free puffs. We love the kid-friendly introductions to wild-caught salmon, bone broth, and butternut squash. Yum!

6. Omami

Ethics | Certified organic, recyclable packaging, additive & preservative-free, free of 14 major allergens, vegan & vegetarian-friendly
Food Types | Blends
Delivers To | UK
Subscription Pricing | Starting at £49/14 blends

This UK brand wants to help you make magic at mealtimes, using 37+ organic ingredients in made-to-order recipes. Omami is all sustainable, too—from its eco-friendly cold-press system to recyclable packaging. Choose from one of the specially curated boxes for varying age groups, or go a la carte for specific blends like mango and buckwheat or sweet potato and white bean. No matter what you choose, your little one is likely to love it.

7. Bio Bambino

Ethics | Certified organic, GMO-, palm oil-, & preservative-free, sustainable agriculture, locally sourced
Food Types | Puree blends, stews, pasta & meat meals
Delivers To | Melbourne metro area & some regional cities in Australia
Pricing | $6.95 AUD/8 pouches

Australian brand Bio Bambino is on a mission to provide healthy and tasty meals for babies and toddlers, using only organic and sustainable ingredients. All produce is certified organic, GMO-free, or locally farmed—and gluten-free. We’re big fans of the different stews, pastas, and even risotto for your little one to try. Though they don’t have a subscription service, Bio Bambino partners with iPantry to offer regional delivery, and you can also find their meals and pouches in stores across the country!

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