Most Baby Products Aren't As Safe As You Think
Hidden Toxins
Many baby brands look healthy, but they still contain hidden toxins—things like chemicals, preservatives, and synthetic materials that can be harmful to your little one.
Misleading Labels
Even products labeled 'natural' or 'organic' can still contain questionable ingredients. Companies use buzzwords and certifications to appear clean, but many still include synthetic additives and preservatives that don't belong in baby products.
Lack of Transparency
Brands aren't always upfront about what's really in their products. Ingredients can be hidden under vague terms like 'fragrance' or proprietary blends, making it hard to know what you're actually using on your baby.
That's why we created Simple Steps Market—a place where you can find only the cleanest, safest baby products in one easy-to-shop marketplace.
Better-for-baby essentials
No harsh ingredients
Expert approved
All in one place
Why Simple Steps?
Ingredient Transparency
No hidden toxins, ever. We carefully vet every product so you don’t have to.
Strict Standards
From baby food made without seed oils to clothes made without pesticides, only the cleanest and safest options make the cut.
Backed by Experts
Our selection is guided by leading experts in health, wellness, and non-toxic living.
Made for Conscious Parents
Whether you're a first-time parent or simply looking for better options, we make healthy choices simple.
A Marketplace You Can Trust
Founded by a team of health-conscious parents and experts, Simple Steps Market was created to take the guesswork out of choosing what's best for your little one. Because when it comes to your baby's health, every step matters.
How Simple Steps Was Born
Kevin Fitzgerald
When my wife and I started our baby registry, we were overwhelmed—so after becoming a dad, I knew parents needed an easier way to shop non-toxic with confidence.
Simple Steps Journal
Big News: The FDA Is Updating Baby Formula Regulations (After 25 Years)
🍼 For the first time since 1998, the FDA is launching a comprehensive review of baby formula nutrition and safety standards—and we think it’s about time. Why This Matters: Parents have long been told to trust what’s on the shelf—but the truth is, many baby formulas in the U.S. have lagged behind when it comes to ingredient quality and transparency. Now, thanks to Operation Stork Speed, the FDA will finally: ✅ Update nutrient requirements for baby formula ✅ Increase testing for heavy metals and contaminants ✅ Extend the personal importation policy (so you can access better international brands) ✅ Require clearer labeling and work with companies on ingredient transparency ✅ Partner with the NIH to study short- and long-term health outcomes of formula-fed babies 👉 Translation: safer, more transparent options could finally become the norm. Important to note: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with your pediatrician, healthcare provider, or a licensed medical professional before making decisions about infant feeding or switching formulas. What to Look For in a Safer Formula While we wait for these regulations to catch up, here’s how you can choose a better-for-baby formula today: 🍼 100% Lactose as the carb source (no corn syrup or maltodextrin) 🌿 Non-GMO and USDA Organic 🐄 Grass-fed milk, when possible 💚 A2 casein protein for sensitive tummies (easier to digest) Formula Brands We Trust Here’s a breakdown of better options, depending on your baby’s needs—and your preferences: ✅ Good (Uses skim milk, better ingredients than mainstream brands) Bobbie Baby’s Only Loulouka 💪 Better (Uses whole milk, closer to breast milk composition) ByHeart Bubs Bobbie Whole Milk Formula Kendamil Nannycare Jovie Formula Little Oak 🏆 Best (Whole milk and no seed oils) Serenity A2 Formula* Sammy’s Milk *FAQ about serenity’s toddler formula: This product is not an infant formula so we are not allowed to recommend this product for infants. Our Toddler Formula contains the required FDA nutrients for infant formula, however, it has not yet gone through the FDA evaluation process that is required for infant formula. So until then, we can only recommend our Grass Fed A2 Whole Milk Toddler Formula for children ages 12 months and up, or as directed by a health professional. Bottom Line We’re thrilled the FDA is finally stepping up. But you don’t have to wait for safer options. At Simple Steps Market, we’re committed to guiding you toward better-for-baby choices today. ✨ Because every baby deserves the best start—and that starts with what’s in the bottle. 🛒 Tap here to explore vetted formula options and non-toxic baby essentials → Simple Steps Market.
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How We Choose the Safest Pacifiers for Your Baby
Pacifiers can be a lifesaver for soothing a fussy baby—but not all pacifiers are created equal. At Simple Steps Market, we go beyond cute designs and focus on what really matters: safety, purity, and non-toxic materials. That’s why we only list pacifiers that meet our strict criteria, so you can feel confident about what your baby is putting in their mouth. Our Requirements for Pacifiers Every pacifier we carry must be: BPA Free Scent Free Made from medical-grade or food-grade silicone if silicone is used Made from 100% natural rubber if rubber is used Why Conventional Pacifiers Can Be Harmful Many traditional pacifiers are made from low-quality plastic or synthetic rubber, which can contain BPA (bisphenol A), PVC, or phthalates—chemicals known to interfere with hormones and potentially impact development. Even “BPA-free” plastic options may contain BPS or BPF, which are similar in structure and may pose similar risks. Some pacifiers are also artificially scented, which might sound nice to adults, but for a baby, this means extra chemicals right next to their nose and mouth—where absorption happens quickly. Low-grade silicone can also break down more easily, especially when cleaned with heat, leading to microplastic particles or chemical leaching. And synthetic rubber pacifiers may contain nitrosamines, compounds that are potentially carcinogenic. Why Our Standards Matter BPA & Scent-Free: No hormone-disrupting plastics or unnecessary additives—just clean, safe materials. Medical-Grade or Food-Grade Silicone: These high-quality silicones are heat-resistant, durable, and tested for safety, making them ideal for your baby’s frequent use. Natural Rubber: We only accept 100% natural rubber pacifiers, free from synthetic fillers and chemicals. These are soft, sustainable, and biodegradable. Your baby deserves a pacifier that’s not only soothing but safe. At Simple Steps Market, we do the research for you—so you can feel good about every tiny detail. Shop our trusted, non-toxic pacifier collection and give your baby comfort without compromise.
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How We Choose the Safest Baby Lotions
Your baby's delicate skin deserves the safest, most nourishing care. However, many conventional baby lotions contain harsh chemicals and toxic additives that can cause irritation and long-term health concerns. At Simple Steps Market, we go beyond labels and marketing claims to ensure that only the safest, most natural products make it to our shelves. Why Conventional Baby Lotions Can Be Harmful ❌ Synthetic Fragrances contain undisclosed chemical blends that can trigger skin irritation, allergies, and hormone disruption. ❌ Parabens (Methylparaben, Ethylparaben, Propylparaben) are preservatives that disrupt hormones and may contribute to long-term health risks. ❌ Phthalates (commonly found in fragrances) are linked to reproductive toxicity and endocrine disruption. ❌ Phenoxyethanol, a common preservative, can cause skin irritation and potential endocrine disruption with prolonged use. ❌ Petroleum-Based Ingredients (Mineral Oil) create a barrier that can clog pores, trap toxins, and may contain carcinogenic contaminants like PAHs (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons). ❌ BHA & BHT are synthetic antioxidants that can cause skin irritation, hormone disruption, and have potential carcinogenic effects. ❌ Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives (DMDM Hydantoin, Quaternium-15, Imidazolidinyl Urea) pose risks of skin irritation, respiratory issues, and increased cancer risk. ❌ Polyethylene Glycol (PEGs) may be contaminated with harmful carcinogens like ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane, and can strip the skin’s natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Our Standard: What We Choose Instead ✅ Fragrance-Free or Naturally Scented Options using essential oils instead of synthetic fragrances. ✅ Safe Preservatives like ethylhexylglycerin and sodium benzoate to prevent bacterial growth without irritation. ✅ Natural Oils & Moisturizers like jojoba oil, shea butter, and coconut oil to nourish and protect delicate skin. ✅ Non-Toxic, Baby-Safe Formulations free from endocrine disruptors, skin irritants, and harmful chemicals. Your baby deserves a lotion that is as pure and gentle as they are. By choosing safe, natural products, you’re ensuring the best care for your little one’s sensitive skin.
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How We Choose the Safest Baby Shampoos & Body Washes
Your baby’s delicate skin deserves the safest, most nourishing care. However, many conventional baby shampoos and body washes contain harsh chemicals and toxic additives. At Simple Steps Market, we go beyond labels and marketing claims to ensure that only the safest, most natural products make it to our shelves. Our Requirements for Baby Shampoos & Body Washes ❌ Every baby shampoo and body wash we carry is made without: Synthetic Fragrance Paraben Phthalate Sulfate (No SLS, SLES) Carcinogen (No Propylene Glycol, PEGs, Polysorbate 80, Polyethylene Glycol, -eth, -oxynol) Petroleum (No Mineral Oil) Phenoxyethanol Skin Irritant (No Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate) Why Conventional Baby Shampoos & Body Washes Can Be Harmful Synthetic Fragrances contain undisclosed chemical blends that can trigger skin irritation, allergies, and hormone disruption. Parabens (Methylparaben, Ethylparaben, Propylparaben) are preservatives that disrupt hormones and may contribute to long-term health risks. Phthalates (commonly found in fragrances) are linked to reproductive toxicity and endocrine disruption. Sulfates (SLS & SLES) strip the skin’s natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and further sensitivity. Carcinogenic Ingredients like Propylene Glycol (linked to toxicity), PEGs (-eth, -oxynol compounds, which may contain carcinogenic residues), and Polysorbate 80 (a potential toxin) pose potential health risks. Petroleum-Based Ingredients (Mineral Oil) create a moisture barrier but can clog pores and may contain harmful PAH contaminants. Phenoxyethanol, a common preservative, can cause skin irritation and potential endocrine disruption with prolonged use. Skin Irritants (Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate), while effective preservatives, can sometimes cause irritation or allergic reactions. Sodium benzoate may also form benzene, a carcinogen, when mixed with vitamin C or exposed to heat. Our Standard: What We Choose Instead ✅ Instead of these harmful ingredients, we prioritize: Natural Cleansers & Emulsifiers like coconut-based cleansers and glycerin for gentle washing. Safe Preservatives like ethylhexylglycerin and radish root ferment filtrate to prevent bacterial growth without irritation. Natural Oils & Moisturizers like jojoba oil, shea butter, and coconut oil to nourish and protect delicate skin. Fragrance-Free or Naturally Scented Options using essential oils instead of synthetic fragrances. Non-Toxic, Baby-Safe Formulations free from endocrine disruptors, skin irritants, and harmful chemicals. Your baby deserves a shampoo and body wash that is as pure and gentle as they are. At Simple Steps Market, we take the guesswork out of finding safe, high-quality baby care products. Shop our trusted, non-toxic baby shampoo & body wash collection today!
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