There is plenty of evidence that people easily become obsessed with shoes, buying pair after pair and amassing a collection that no single person could possibly need. But less attention is paid to the fashion and comfort choices that must be made for inside of the shoe: socks. It might be accurate to call socks the unsung hero of the footwear world. Not only do socks protect shoes from becoming sweaty and smelly, they protect feet from blisters, make long walks more comfortable, and can even work to heal and prevent some foot and leg ailments. While most people already have a drawer full of socks purchased from department stores, online shops, and even local convenience stores, taking time to choose a sock that is well-researched and thoroughly considered can lead to a truly exceptional sock experience.
Sock StylesThere are many things to consider when purchasing a new pair of socks. For some, the most important factor is how those socks will look with shoes and coordinate with the rest of an outfit. One of the sock characteristics that will determine how socks complete an ensemble is the length or height of the socks.
Knee SocksKnee socks are, just as their name suggests, socks that go up to the knees. At one time, this sock style was closely associated with girls' Catholic school uniforms, although most uniforms have progressed past knee socks today. The classic school girl knee socks are white cotton, but knee socks can come in any variety of colors and materials. Knee socks can be work with skirts or shorts in order to call attention to their style or keep legs warm, but they can also be worn underneath pants for insulation. Striped knee socks and other wild patterns are an easy way to draw attention to socks, or can be a fun whimsy to keep secret under long pants. Knee socks are even a part of many athletic uniforms, particularly soccer where they are useful for holding shin guards in place.
Crew SocksCrew socks are another popular length. The height of crew socks is not standardized across the industry, but they generally rise between 6" and 8" above the ankle. The term crew sock generally refers to athletic-style socks, although dress socks can be of a similar height. These socks can be worn for virtually any activity. Long pants will easily cover the top of the socks, but when they are worn with shorts they are certainly visible. Some runners prefer to wear crew length socks when running through rough terrain since the added height protects their ankles from brush and undergrowth.
Low Socks and No-Show SocksSometimes the term "low" or "low cut" and "no-show" are used interchangeably when in reference to socks, but in truth they are a bit different. Low cut socks have at least a small band of fabric that will show above the shoe when they are worn. No - show socks are specifically designed to be invisible once shoes are donned. Both of these types of socks are popular with athletes. For particularly vigorous exercise that involves a lot of lateral movement of the foot, like basketball or tennis, it may be better to choose low cut or even crew socks as no-show socks have a tendency to slip inside the shoe.
Slouch SocksSlouch socks were particularly fashionable in the 1990's but still have their fans today. These socks are tall, normally between crew length and knee high when they are stretched out, but they are actually designed to be slouched down around the ankle. This creates a bulky, wrinkled look around the top of the shoe. Whether to be worn as a retro fashion statement or simply because they are comfortable, slouch socks are still widely available.
Specialty SocksIn many cases, just knowing the height or length of a sock will not be enough information. This is especially true when looking for socks for a particular purpose. Specialty socks that are designed for certain activities may be made with different materials that provide maximum comfort and maximum style during the activity.
Running SocksRunning is a wonderful hobby that can improve overall health and even prolong lives. However, it can also be very punishing on some parts of the body, including the feet. This is why many runners choose to wear running socks that are specifically designed to protect feet during long runs and even improve running posture and form. Running socks can come in many different heights. Low cut running socks are appropriate for everyday jogging, and tall, knee length compression running socks can improve performance on long runs and keep legs warm and circulating during cold months. Running socks are most often made from moisture-wicking materials that draw sweat away from the foot, keeping it comfortable and dry throughout a run. The right running socks should also have some amount of cushioning and be comfortable for the runner. It may take trying a few pairs before the perfect match is made.
Toe SocksToe socks are unique in their design. Rather than have all toes of the foot together, toe socks have an individual chamber for each toe, much like a glove has for fingers. In some cases, this is done simply for the fun and quirky style. However, some yoga socks or specialty running socks also employ this design because it prevents the toes from rubbing together and causing blisters. For those looking to keep their toes separated or simply looking for a new and different way to wear socks, toe socks may be an answer.
Hiking SocksHiking is another athletic endeavor that can be very punishing on the feet. Going up and down steep inclines can make feet especially susceptible to blistering. In addition, cold conditions at high elevations can make feet vulnerable to frostbite. This is why it is important for serious hikers to consider socks that are designed for hiking. One important note when it comes to hiking socks:: most hikers will recommend buying hiking socks before buying hiking boots. Because these socks can be much thicker than typical athletic socks, they may actually affect what size hiking boots fit comfortably. Any employee in an outdoor store can help find suitable choices in socks and boots.
Dress SocksFor people that work in an office setting where business dress is still the norm, dress socks are probably their most frequently worn socks. Dress socks can feel very different from other types of socks. Generally they are made from much thinner materials like silk or nylon and feel more slippery. Dress socks also tend to be available in darker colors so that they may be matched to suits and skirts. Often, when dress socks are made specifically for women, they are referred to as trouser socks in order to differentiate them from men's socks and from pantyhose or stockings.
Novelty SocksAlthough socks may seem like a boring but necessary item of clothing, for some people socks can be a fun and interesting way to express style. There is a virtually endless catalog of novelty socks for people who like to be a bit bold on their toes. Novelty socks range from those that are decorated with favorite cartoon characters or sports teams to socks that are designed for a certain season or holiday. In fact, there are entire retail stores that are devoted solely to novelty socks. Of course, any type of sock, novelty or not, is also available online.
Sock MaterialsDepending on what types of socks are being purchased, they may be made from a variety of materials. However, not all types of socks are available in all materials. The table below describes the most common socks materials as well as the types of socks that are made from them.

Throughout your pregnancy, your body is continuously making adjustments to accommodate the growth of your baby. The ligaments that support your uterus are also adapting as they stretch to support your expanding uterus. These ligaments, known as the round ligaments, may cause pain or discomfort when strained. A maternity belt supports your growing belly, providing temporary relief to the round ligaments when worn just below your abdomen. A noninvasive device, a maternity support belt rests comfortably over your undergarments.

Prep the baby wipes
Use one measured cup of boiling (or very hot) water and add:

• about an eighth of baby oil and the same amount of: 
  
• your favourite baby lotion, 
  
• and liquid baby soap/ baby wash

Mix well.

1. Cut Bounty paper towel roll in 1/2 and remove cardboard roll from the centre.
   
2. Insert paper towel roll into your container and pour the mixed liquid.
3. Seal with a lid and leave about 24 hours (otherwise it's too oily and wipes will be too hot)

These baby wipes are great for frugal parenting. They're large and can be used on the face and hands and work great for cleaning your own hands after a diaper change.


 

Cost comparison – MCNs versus disposable 
There are a number of variables involved in costing cloth nappies against disposables.

DisposablesIf you estimate a baby using about 6500 nappies from birth to toilet training (based on six nappies a day for three years), Huggies, the most popular brand of disposable in our survey, will cost around $3000 (when bought in bulk packages). A cheaper disposable, like Aldi’s Mamia, the second most popular brand in our survey, will cost you around $1900 all up.

MCNs
Cloth nappies cost about $30 each - but at KindyNews eco-shop- they cost $16 for a top quality nappy! on average, plus boosters and liners. You’ll need about 20-24 to get started, which will allow you to wash every two days and still have a set to use on laundry day. However, the number required will vary depending on washing and drying habits, climate, season etc. That’s an upfront cost of around $600-$700.

Costs of laundering have to be factored in as well, and these will depend on your particular washing machine, whether you use warm, hot or cold water, your brand of detergent, and whether they’re tumble-dried. Still, with one set of nappies, cool water washing and line drying, you’ll be up for less than half the cost of disposables.

It's worth to note that if you buy sized nappies rather than one-size-fits-most, you’ll have to buy another set or two later on, which will add to the expense. But consider also that if you can use your MCNs on more than one child, your cost savings will add up.

Which brand?There are many, many brands of nappy out there – respondents reported using a total of 248 different brands. Most people use more than one brand, with 3.7 brands used on average and one-third of people using five or more brands. Many brands are supplied by small cottage industry enterprises, or WAHM (work at home mums), creating their own distinctive and/or custom designs and selling them online. However, of the top 12 most popular brands, very few strictly qualify as WAHM – apart from the out-and-out large-scale commercial companies, a more typical scenario is that a WAHM operation became a small family enterprise and then further expanded to become a full-blown business operation.

Chemicals commonly found in Baby Wipes and Ointments:

Chlorine: Skin or Sense Organ Toxicity Hazards: suspected, Respiratory Toxicity Hazards: suspected, may cause burns to skin and mucosa membrane tissue. (use to whiten fibers)

Alcohol – is found in fragrances, nail products, facial and personal care products. Tends to be drying to the skin and strips away the natural protective mantle, leaving your vulnerable to bacteria and toxins. Many types of alcohol are irritating or even toxic, and can cause brown spots on the skin and premature aging. Isopropyl alcohol, Benzyl alcohol and Denatured Alcohol are linked with birth defects, allergies, and have been shown to be occupational hazards for workers who are exposed to these every day, and to build up over time in body tissues and in the environment. Benzyl Alcohol in particular can be a skin irritant, causing burning sensation. Stearyl and cetearyl alcohol are waxes and do not have a harmful effect on the skin, and are used in many safe cosmetics.

Parbens (methyl,ethyl,propyl, & butyl): linked to hormone disruption, increase risk of cancers and reproductive toxicity. (used as a preservative to prevent microbial growth)

Propylene Glycol (PG, Polyethylene Glycol (PEG), and Ethylene Glycol (EG) are all petroleum derivatives that act as solvents, surfactants, and wetting agents.  They can easily penetrate the skin, and can weaken protein and cellular structure.  In fact, PG penetrates the skin so quickly that the EPA warns factory workers to avoid skin contact, to prevent brain, liver, and kidney abnormalities. Propylene Glycol serves as a Humectant – a substance that helps retain moisture content, or simply –it prevents things from drying out.  These chemicals have shown to increase risk of many cancers, and are commonly contaminated with  1,4-Dioxane (used as a thickener and skin conditioner).

Petroleum By Products: linked to various cancers due to impurities of  1,4-Dioxane and Coal Tar (used as the workhorse for cosmetics, provides the base of the product)

Phthalates (DEP,DEHP,dibutyl or diethylhexyl): hormone disruption in both boys and girls, infertility, early puberty for girls. (Used as a binding agent for fragrances so they can be absorbed more easily into the skin)

Cocamidopropyl betaine: skin, lung, and eye irritant, commonly causes contact dermatitis, known immune system toxicant. (Used with petroleum products to make products thicker and foamier)

Methylchloroisothiazolinone:  has been associated with allergic reactions. Known human immune system toxicant, human skin toxicant.  Banned in Canada (widely-used preservative)

Methylisothiazolinon: has been associated with allergic reactions. Lab studies on the brain cells of mammals also suggest that methylisothiazolinone may be neurotoxic. Banned in Canada ( widely-used preservative)

Benzalkonium Chloride: Biocide, associated with severe skin, eye, and respiratory irritation and allergies, benzalkonium chloride is a sensitizer especially dangerous for people with asthma or skin conditions such as eczema. (preservative and surfactant)

Sodium laurel or lauryl sulfate (SLS)- Sodium laurel or lauryl sulfate(SLS), also known as sodium laureth sulfate (SLES)– Found in car washes, engine degreasers, garage floor cleaners, and said to be present in over 90% of personal care products including baby wipes. SLS breaks down the skin’s moisture barrier, easily penetrates the skin, and allows other chemicals to easily penetrate. Combined with other chemicals, SLS can become a “nitrosamine”, a potent class of carcinogen. It can also cause hair loss. SLES is sometimes disguised with the labeling “comes from coconut” or “coconut-derived”.

Lanolin Many baby products contain lanolin, a fatty substance obtained from sheep wool and used as a base for cosmetics.  Experts advise against the use of lanolin unless the company guarantees it is pesticide-free.  In surveys done by the Environmental Protection Agency, much of the commercial lanolin used in baby products was found to contain relatively high concentrations of pesticides such as DDT, lindane, and diazinon.  According to the National Research Council, these chemicals are readily absorbed through the baby’s skin.  Each of them can damage the nervous system, and some of them are cancer-causing.

Formaldehyde-based preservatives such as DMDM hydantoin, diazolidinyl urea, imidazolidinyl urea, and quaternium-15, 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol, and sodium hydroxylmethylglycinate. These preservatives are found in a number of skin care, hair care and personal care products, pain relievers, baby wipes and in nail polish. They release formaldehyde which is carcinogenic and have been linked to cancer, developmental problems, endocrine disruption, allergies, immune system toxicity and more.

Mineral Oil - is used in many skincare products because it is inexpensive. Mineral oil is a petroleum by-product that coats the skin to keep in moisture. It strips the natural oils from your skin so it actually causes chapping, dryness and premature aging. Mineral oil clogs the pores, and does not allow the skin to breathe or to release toxins. Some people who have a bad case of acne find complete relief simply by switching to a non-mineral oil face cream. Any type of mineral oil derivative can contain PAH’s (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons) which are known to cause cancer. Some say that it also interferes with your body’s ability to absorb the fat soluble vitamins. There are so many healthier alternatives to mineral oil.

Fragrance – as in “synthetic fragrance” – not our natural botanically-derived scents, is considered one of the top 5 allergens in the world.  Many people who are sensitive can actually feel a dizzy, sick sensation or experience headaches when they inhale a product with fragrance. If you have sensitive skin, avoid all products with added fragrance. Phtalates can often be hidden in synthetic fragrance.

Answers:


Q: Is it really worth worrying about what ingredients are in your baby wipes and other baby products?

A: Yes!. We support the reduction of harsh chemicals and preservatives in skin care. It is not only better for you and your family, but it is healthier for the earth. Whatever you put on skin is likely to be absorbed into the blood stream with the potential to cause damage over time. Whatever is thrown into the landfill or flushed down your toilet has the potential to accumulate and contaminate water supplies and oceans which can then become concentrated in the food chain.

Manufacturers have taken the easy way out for years by using cheap ingredients to turn a bigger profit and harsh preservatives to ensure a product’s shelf life throughout an increasingly growing supply chain. There is good news though: Consumers like you have been educating themselves and voting for safer and higher quality products with their dollars. The more consumers show their concern by buying safer and more natural products, the more common it will become to see ingredients lists with safer ingredients.

In our case, KindyNews Eco Baby Shop began after communicating with Moms who found a need in the market for safer baby products. When we set out to create them, we insisted that they be made with certain gentler ingredients.  We are fortunate to have found and work with suppliers that listened to our concerns and helped us create our vision.

Navigating the enormous terrain of chemical names is not easy for the average person.  Furthermore, just because you have trouble pronouncing an ingredient, does not mean it is dangerous. A Washington-based organization called Skin Deephas made it easy to calculate your risk of exposure to potentially harmful substances through the personal care products you use for yourself or your baby. Their rating system offers a means of quantifying the risks posed. KindyNews has voluntarily signed their Compact for Safe Cosmetics, and in doing so we have pledged to not only make our products safe, but to provide transparency to consumers. We also submitted laboratory testing results that show that our baby wipes do not contain dioxane 1, 4, formaldehyde, chlorine, or BPAs (bisphenol a). Check them out at: www.safecosmetics.org

Click here to read about some common ingredients you may see in skin care products that may be cause for concern. We recommend avoiding them and we choose never use them in our products, as we believe that there are many safe and natural alternatives. We also recommend that when we consider laboratory studies to always ask how a study was performed (did they use high quantities? Was it performed on an animal? In a petrie dish? Who was funding the study? How many studies have there been and what did they conclude?.

Q: What does “renewable and sustainable” mean?

A. Renewability refers to a plant that has a short regeneration period to full maturation, usually in stark contrast to the material they are replacing. Sustainability refers to resources being replenished at a fast enough rate at which they can be used for consumption. Bamboo is a quintessential renewable and sustainable plant due to the fact that it grows back so quickly and naturally. Furthermore, it is a regenerating plant, which means it does not have to be replanted. This saves on petrol-guzzling tractors.

Q: Is your packaging biodegradable and/or recyclable?

A: Unfortunately the packaging for the baby wipes is not currently biodegradable. In an effort to be as environmentally responsible as possible.

Q: Are your baby wipes flushable?

A: Most people are not aware, but there are currently no federal regulations regarding this marketing claim.  In the US, the INDA, the Association for Non Woven Fabrics Industry offers guidelines to determine flushability, but it seems that even the experts are conflicted as to whether any company should be advertising wet wipes as flushable. We have a strong opinion about flushability – We do not encourage anyone to flush anything that doesn’t start to break down like toilet paper in the bowl. Read our detailed opinion and research by clicking the link below.

More Flushability Info: Click Here

Q: Are your baby wipes and bathroom tissue a bio-based material?

A. Yes, these products are made from bio-based bamboo material. So far, we have certified our bamboo baby wipes in the USDA Bioprefered program. We will eventually complete the certification process for our bathroom tissue, as well. The USDA defines bio-based products as those whose main ingredients are from renewable plant, animal, marine, or forestry materials.  Get more info at  www.biopreferred.gov

Q: Are KindyNews Bamboo Wipes compostable?

A: Composting turns degradable materials into useable compost-humus-like material that enriches the soil and returns nutrients to the earth. KindyNews Bamboo Wipes have early on been deemed as compostable in industrial or municipal facilities as opposed to home composting units that do not generate high enough temperature to safely break down human waste. These claims were based on our independent results and by our customers who use well managed facilities with high temperatures.  However, the FTC recently set requirements for compostability certification testing that is a financial burden for many small business like ours. We will keep you updated on our progress with our certification tests. In the meantime, we cannot make claims that they are compostable at industrial or municipal facilities.


Q: Do you test on animals?

A: We have never, nor will we ever test on animals. Furthermore, all of our suppliers must provide documentation stating to the same.  We are certified by Leaping Bunny which is a program providing the best assurance that no new animal testing is used in any phase of product development by the company, its laboratories, or suppliers.

Q: How do I find out where KindyNews Bamboo products trees are being planted?

A: Currently KindyNews plants trees for each individual package of baby wipes, each individual diaper rash ointment, and for every 4 rolls of bathroom tissue sold. Our trees are being planted annually in a variety of locations where deforestation has had a major impact. We feel that regions that have suffered tremendous losses due to deforestation are the best place to start. To date we have planted over 47,000 trees in Brazil, Ghana, Burundi and Haiti. We have chosen to plant in these countries for two reasons: rainforest depletion is as high as 90% due to things like widespread logging in the past and overgrazing. And in Burundi, where 57% of children under 5 suffer from chronic malnutrition, we are planting Moringa, “the miracle tree” which boasts twice the calcium as milk and four times as much Vitamin A as in carrots.

If you would like to plant trees in other regions around the globe, please visit Trees for the Future to learn about their many programs.

Q: Will bamboo production put Panda bears at more risk?

A: NO. The species’ of plant used for processing fiber is a different variety than the ones Pandas consume. Its Latin name is Phyllostachys heterocycla pubescens, but is commonly known as Moso bamboo. Deforestation, agricultural encroachment and road-building remain the biggest threats to Panda habitat.

Q: Why did you choose bamboo for your products?

A: Because it’s the best, environmentally-preferable solution for disposable products! We invite you to read our Bamboo page for detailed information about bamboo. Below are the highlights of why we chose it for our products:

• Regenerated cellulose fiber made from bamboo is a bio-based material;
• Bamboo is the fastest growing grass on the planet and can shoot up a yard or more a day making it an endurable natural resource. Bamboo is ready for harvesting in 2-4 years (as opposed to 30+ years for trees);
• Bamboo does not require replanting after harvesting because of its vast root network;
• Bamboo crops do not require significant amounts of water, in fact, rain water is usually sufficient for growth;
• Bamboo generates 35% more oxygen than an equivalent stand of trees;
• Replacing disposables with bamboo material can have a major effect on the rate of deforestation of hardwood forests;
• Regenerated-cellulose fiber from bamboo is very soft.

Q: Why do you import your bathroom tissue from China?

A: When we launched the KindyNews EcoBaby Shop, with our first product (bamboo baby liners) there were no Australian suppliers actually willing to supply us with the low quantity we were able to purchase, so we started in China. It is our goal to eventually have our liners manufactured in the Australia. Until then, our products are supplied by a highly reputable manufacturer that complies with environmental standards and fair labour practices in China. 

Q: Do you have other ideas for bamboo products?

A: Yes, we do!  We are constantly researching the possibilities of additional products. Since our goal is to only make the very best, most natural products, we will  continue to develop our product line conscientiously. To learn about upcoming products, sign up for our email newsletter.

Q: Are the baby wipes and liners quality-controlled?

A: Our baby wipes and liners are made at FDA certified facilities where quality control is strictly maintained.  We have also had our baby wipes and bathroom tissue tested at an independent laboratory to demonstrate the absence of formaldehyde, dioxane 1, 4, chlorine, and Bisphenol A’s.

Q: What does KindyNews do to be a “green business”?

A: We try to make as many aspects of our company as environmentally-friendly as possible. Below are some of the ways that we have incorporated these ideals into our business model:

• We plant trees with Trees for the Future for every individual item sold to help stop and reverse deforestation;
• We offset 35 tons of carbon emissions annually by purchasing carbon credits through CarbonFund.org;
• Two out of three of our manufacturing facilities are operating on 100% renewable energy;
• We ship in recycled and/or reclaimed boxes whenever possible;
  
• We reclaim paper and other office supplies to keep them out of the landfill;
• We use environmentally-conscious office practices and supplies;
• We maintain paper-free records as much as possible;
• We carpool whenever possible;
• We operate as much of the business as possible from home offices to reduce travel;
• We make efforts to reclaim our packaging for alternative reuse;
• We aim to educate consumers about environmentally-responsible options and choices;
  
• Because of our efforts to protect the environment, we are very proud to have been certified as a B Corp. Please learn about B Corps  http://bcorporation.net/

          This is just a sample of some of our efforts. We are always open to new ideas on how we can improve.

Q: Does KindyNews EcoBaby Shop want me to review the products?

A: If you are interested in reviewing Bum Boosa® products on your blog or website or other venue, please complete the information form on the Contact Us tab. Unfortunately we are unable to honour all requests for product reviews. To improve the chances of approval, please show that you have a minimum of 1,000 active followers, are very active (and have a solid following) on social media sites, and are willing to link back to our site. Thank you for your interest in our products!


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