TOP 5 TIPS on how to shop sustainably!

Collecting up a lot of ‘stuff’ in the first few years of parenthood is common. Whether it’s those first exciting purchases to get ready for a new baby or the hand-me-downs, the well-meaning gifts or those toys that make life a little easier...

So here's our TOP 5 TIPS on how to shop more sustainably!

QUALITY OVER QUANTITY.

It can be tempting to buy your kids everything you see when you’re shopping on the high street… ‘It’s only cheap’ and they’d look amazing in everything, after all.

Remember, sustainability is about reducing your waste and making sure your purchases have a positive impact on the environment. Sadly, there’s a reason why high street bargains are so low priced, and a lack of quality plays a huge part! 

Cheap kids’ clothing (however, seemingly, nice) will quickly get worn out or lose their shape, leaving you with a need to buy more sooner.

To be more sustainable, choose quality products which will last until they’re outgrown and can then be handed down to younger siblings, given to friends or sold on preloved.

Our Sustainable Kids’ Hats are made to last! Perfect for handing down the generations.

FORGET ABOUT 'TRENDS'.

Trends come and go quickly, which can leave you feeling like you need to stay up to date. High street stores use trends to keep you coming back for more.  Don’t fall for it. Instead, build your child’s wardrobe with simple, timeless designs which will last for years and still look fab.

CHECK FOR ECO / ETHICAL POLICY.

One of the quickest ways to check you’re shopping sustainably is to check the policies of the kids brands you like. Check to see what environmental practices they use, how their workers are treated, and what materials are being used in their products. If they don’t show it on their site? Drop them an email and ask.

You can use The Good Shopping Guide to check the sustainability rating of your favourite big brands.

GET BORROWING.

Most parents hold on to their baby gear for a while after their child has outgrown it. Which means your child-rearing friends and family may already have everything you need!

Before you shop for your baby and toddler, ask around to see if you can borrow any of the essentials – breast pump, crib, pushchair etc.

If you can’t borrow anything long-term (because they’re still being used), a quick loan is a good way to try before you buy and ensures that you don’t waste money or find yourself with items you won’t use.

BUY IT WHEN YOU NEED IT.

Look at your baby shopping list and check if you’re really going to need everything straight away. It’s fun preparing for a new baby but often the things we think we’ll need, don’t end up being right for our kids… Or we get gifted something similar!

For things like baby walkers, toys, jumperoos, highchairs… Hold off until your baby is old enough to use them so you can make a choice which suits your exact needs at the time.

Don’t forget, parenting is challenging enough without adding in attempts to be perfect eco-warriors. Pick and choose which tips you can make work, but don’t be too harsh on yourself if it’s not possible yet. Small steps count!