Simple Steps Blog
How We Select Safe, Non-Toxic Toys for Your Little One
Playtime should be joyful—not a source of hidden toxins. At Simple Steps Market, we’re incredibly intentional about the toys we list because we know babies explore the world with their hands and mouths. That’s why we only carry toys made from clean, non-toxic, and baby-safe materials that support healthy development without exposing your child to harmful chemicals. Our Toy Requirements To be listed on Simple Steps Market, a toy must be: Made from wood, certified organic materials, food-grade silicone, or 100% natural rubber Dyed with water-based, non-toxic paints Contain no or minimal plastic BPA-free, fragrance-free, and phthalate-free Why Conventional Toys Can Be Toxic Many mass-produced baby toys are made with cheap plastic that contains BPA, PVC, and phthalates—all of which are linked to hormonal disruption, developmental issues, and long-term health concerns. Even small amounts of these chemicals can be harmful when a baby chews, sucks, or handles the toy repeatedly. In addition, some toys are treated with chemical dyes or artificial fragrances, which can be absorbed through the skin or inhaled, especially during close contact. Others may contain synthetic rubber or foam that off-gasses volatile organic compounds (VOCs). What Makes Our Toys Different Safer Materials: We choose toys made from real, natural materials like sustainably sourced wood, food-grade silicone, and 100% natural rubber—materials you can feel good about. Non-Toxic Finishes: Only toys painted or stained with water-based dyes make the cut. No heavy metals or chemical-laden finishes here. Minimal or No Plastic: We avoid plastic wherever possible—and when it’s necessary, it must meet strict safety standards. No Hidden Chemicals: That means no BPA, no phthalates, no PVC, and no artificial scents—ever. When it comes to your child’s first toys, we believe less is more—and simple is safer. Every toy we carry is one we’d hand to our own children, and we’re proud to make safer playtime easier for families. Explore our non-toxic toy collection and let your baby play freely—with peace of mind.
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What’s Really in Baby Formula? Here's What to Look For — and What to Avoid
Choosing a baby formula is one of the most important decisions a parent can make — but navigating ingredients can be overwhelming. Many mainstream formulas are filled with cheap fillers, inflammatory oils, and synthetic ingredients that don’t belong in a baby’s first foods. At Simple Steps Market, we only offer formulas that meet the highest nutritional and purity standards. Here’s a breakdown of what we require — and why each one matters for your baby’s health. ❌ Corn Syrup Why we avoid it:Corn syrup (and corn syrup solids) is often used as a cheap carbohydrate source in formula — but it's highly processed and can spike blood sugar. Long-term, early exposure to added sugars can negatively impact gut health, metabolism, and insulin regulation. Babies deserve better than sugar disguised as nutrition. ❌ Maltodextrin Why we avoid it:Maltodextrin is another ultra-processed carbohydrate often used to bulk up formula. It has a high glycemic index, which can affect blood sugar and insulin levels — and it can also disrupt the gut microbiome. We prefer naturally digestible carbs like lactose, the main sugar found in breast milk. ❌ Seed Oils (like soybean, sunflower, or canola oil) Why we avoid them:Highly processed seed oils are inflammatory, especially when heated or oxidized. They contain high levels of omega-6 fats, which can throw off the body’s natural balance and contribute to inflammation — not ideal for developing systems. Instead, we prefer saturated and monounsaturated fats from clean sources like grass-fed dairy or coconut oil. ✅ Non-GMO Why it matters:Genetically modified crops are often sprayed with high levels of herbicides like glyphosate — a probable human carcinogen. Non-GMO formulas avoid these risks and help support a food system that’s more transparent, clean, and sustainable. ✅ Organic Why it matters:Organic formulas are made without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers. That means no glyphosate, no GMOs, and no toxic residues in your baby’s milk. Babies are especially vulnerable to environmental toxins, so starting with an organic foundation is non-negotiable. ✅ Whole Milk Why it matters:Most formulas are made with skim milk + added oils to replace the fat. But whole milk is how nature intended — rich in naturally occurring healthy fats, fat-soluble vitamins (like A, D, E, and K), and cholesterol, which is essential for brain development in babies. ✅ Goat Milk Why we love it:Goat milk has a protein structure that’s easier to digest than cow’s milk for many babies — especially those with sensitivities. It also contains smaller fat globules, naturally higher levels of certain prebiotics, and tends to be gentler on tiny tummies. ✅ Grass-Fed Why it matters:Dairy from grass-fed animals is higher in omega-3s, CLA (conjugated linoleic acid), and antioxidants. It also reflects a cleaner, more natural food chain — free from synthetic hormones, antibiotics, and grain-based feeds. We only source formulas made from milk that comes from well-treated, pasture-raised animals. Final Thoughts Your baby’s first food shouldn’t be filled with industrial oils, sugar derivatives, or synthetic additives. That’s why Simple Steps Market only offers organic, non-GMO, clean-label formulas made with ingredients that nourish, not harm. We’ve done the research so you don’t have to — because your baby deserves the best possible start. Simple ingredients. Smart choices. Safer formulas.
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The Truth About Baby Wipes: What to Avoid & Why
When it comes to caring for your baby, what you put on their skin is just as important as what you put in their body. Baby wipes might seem harmless, but many mainstream brands are loaded with ingredients that can irritate your baby’s delicate skin — or worse, pose long-term health risks. At Simple Steps Market, we only carry baby wipes that meet the highest standards for safety and purity. Here’s exactly what we avoid in the wipes we choose — and why you should too. ❌ Fragrance Why we avoid it: “Fragrance” might sound innocent, but it’s often a blanket term that hides dozens of undisclosed chemicals — many of which are linked to allergies, skin irritation, hormone disruption, and even respiratory issues. Babies have ultra-sensitive skin and developing systems, so synthetic fragrances have no place in their daily care. ❌ Formaldehyde & Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives Why we avoid it: Yes, some baby wipes can release trace amounts of formaldehyde, a known human carcinogen. Even in small doses, it can cause allergic reactions, rashes, and respiratory issues — especially in babies. We say no to any wipe that even potentially contains formaldehyde or ingredients that release it over time. ❌ Pesticides Why we avoid it: Conventional cotton (often used in wipes) is one of the most heavily sprayed crops. Residual pesticides can linger on the final product and be absorbed through your baby’s skin. Long-term exposure has been linked to developmental and hormonal issues. That’s why we prioritize organic or pesticide-free materials. ❌ Propylene Glycol Why we avoid it: This common ingredient is used to retain moisture, but it can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, especially in babies. It’s also a penetration enhancer, which means it can help other harmful chemicals absorb more deeply into the skin — something we definitely don’t want. ❌ Chlorine Why we avoid it: Some wipes are bleached with chlorine, which can create toxic byproducts like dioxins — substances linked to cancer, reproductive issues, and hormone disruption. We only support wipes that are chlorine-free, keeping both your baby and the planet safe. ❌ Alcohol Why we avoid it: While alcohol may kill germs, it’s far too harsh for a baby’s skin. It can lead to dryness, redness, and irritation, and may even disrupt the skin’s natural barrier. Alcohol-free is always the gentler, safer choice. ❌ Benzalkonium Chloride Why we avoid it: This harsh chemical is often used as a disinfectant or preservative, but it’s a known skin, eye, and respiratory irritant. It can also trigger allergic reactions, especially in babies with sensitive or eczema-prone skin. Final Thoughts You shouldn’t need a chemistry degree to buy safe baby wipes. At Simple Steps Market, we’ve done the homework for you. Every wipe we carry is fragrance-free, toxin-free, and backed by experts — so you can feel confident about what’s touching your baby’s skin every single day. Simple swaps. Safer homes. Healthier babies.
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How We Choose the Best Non-Toxic Diapers
When it comes to choosing the best diapers for your baby, we know safety and ingredient transparency are top priorities. At Simple Steps Market, we carefully evaluate every diaper before adding it to our marketplace, ensuring it meets the highest standards for non-toxic, gentle, and eco-conscious materials. Here’s how we decide which diapers make the cut: 1. EWG Verified We prioritize diapers that have earned the Environmental Working Group (EWG) Verified mark. This ensures they are free from harmful chemicals, meet strict health standards, and provide full ingredient transparency. 2. OEKO-TEX Certified Diapers that carry the OEKO-TEX certification have been tested for hundreds of harmful substances, meaning they are free from toxins that could irritate your baby’s skin. 3. TCF (Totally Chlorine-Free) Processing We only list diapers that use TCF processing, which means they are bleached without chlorine or its derivatives. This reduces the risk of exposure to dioxins, a potentially harmful byproduct of chlorine bleaching. 4. Fragrance-Free, Lotion-Free, and Dye-Free Artificial fragrances, lotions, and dyes can be irritating and unnecessary in a diaper. We ensure all listed diapers are completely free from these additives to minimize the risk of skin sensitivities and allergic reactions. 5. Phthalate-Free Phthalates are commonly found in plastics and can be disruptive to hormones. The diapers we select are phthalate-free, ensuring they are safe for your baby and the environment. By sticking to these strict criteria, we help parents confidently choose the safest and most non-toxic diapers available. Because when it comes to your baby, every step should be a simple, safe step. Browse our carefully curated diaper selection at Simple Steps Market and give your baby the best start!
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How We Choose the Safest White Noise Machines
A white noise machine can be a game-changer for your baby’s sleep routine—but not all of them are created with your baby’s health in mind. At Simple Steps Market, we go beyond the soothing sounds and focus on what truly matters: low EMF, no synthetic audio, and safe, non-toxic operation. That’s why we only carry white noise machines that meet our strict, baby-safe standards. Our Listing Requirements To be featured on Simple Steps Market, a white noise machine must be: Free of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity Battery-powered or USB chargeable (not reliant on being plugged into the wall during use) Naturally generated white noise (no synthetic sound recordings) Why Conventional White Noise Machines Can Be Harmful Many white noise machines on the market today come packed with tech features—Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, app controls—that might sound convenient, but come with a hidden cost: constant EMF radiation. This type of radiation is a growing concern, especially around developing infants who are more sensitive to environmental exposures. On top of that, most machines use short, digitally looped recordings of rain, ocean, or static. These synthetic sounds may seem calming at first, but over time they can be jarring, repetitive, and even disruptive to deep sleep cycles. And when these machines are plugged into the wall, they not only increase EMF exposure but may also heat up, especially if made from low-grade plastic—adding the risk of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) being released into the nursery. Why Our Standards Matter Low EMF Environment: By removing Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and wall plug usage, we significantly lower your baby’s exposure to unnecessary electromagnetic fields. Naturally-Generated White Noise: Our machines create soothing sound using mechanical parts (like a small fan), not a digital recording—giving your baby the benefits of consistent, organic noise that mimics real-world environments. Safe for Baby, Simple for Parents: No apps, no tech headaches—just a calm, consistent sound that helps your baby rest better. Sleep is sacred, especially in the early years. At Simple Steps Market, we’re here to help you create a safe and nourishing sleep environment—without compromising on peace of mind. Explore our curated collection of white noise machines that are simple, safe, and effective—just like everything else we list.
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What’s in Your Baby’s Crib? The Toxic Truth & What to Look For Instead
Your baby’s crib should be the safest place in your home — a peaceful spot for rest, growth, and development. But here’s the reality: most cribs on the market today are made with toxic glues, synthetic finishes, and questionable materials that can off-gas harmful chemicals right into your baby’s sleep space. At Simple Steps Market, we only offer cribs that meet the highest non-toxic standards — because your baby’s health, sleep, and long-term development depend on it. Here’s our crib checklist — and why each standard is non-negotiable. ✅ Real, Solid Wood (No Particleboard or MDF) Why it matters: Many cribs are made with MDF or particleboard, which contain synthetic adhesives and are prone to off-gassing harmful chemicals like formaldehyde. We only carry cribs made from real, solid wood — like maple, oak, or beech — that are durable, natural, and safe. ✅ Glue-Free or Naturally Assembled Why it matters: Conventional cribs often use toxic glues that release VOCs (volatile organic compounds) into the air, especially in warm environments. We prioritize cribs that are mechanically assembled (screws, bolts, or natural joinery) to eliminate harmful adhesives completely. ✅ Formaldehyde-Free Why it matters: Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen and can be found in glues, finishes, and composite woods. Even “low-formaldehyde” cribs can still off-gas this chemical. We require our cribs to be 100% formaldehyde-free — so you can breathe easy (literally). ✅ Low-VOC or VOC-Free Paints & Finishes Why it matters: Standard crib paints and finishes often contain VOCs, which can contribute to asthma, allergies, hormone disruption, and long-term health risks. We only allow low-VOC or VOC-free finishes that are water-based, food-grade, and safe for babies who love to chew and explore. ✅ GREENGUARD Gold Certified Why it matters: This certification is one of the most trusted in the non-toxic world. It means the crib has been independently tested for over 10,000 chemical emissions and meets strict standards for indoor air quality — making it safer for babies, especially those with allergies or sensitivities. ❌ Not Made in Asia (Due to Lead Contamination Risks) Why we avoid it: Studies have shown that lead contamination is more common in furniture manufactured in certain parts of Asia, due to poor quality control and the continued use of lead-based paints and finishes. At Simple Steps, we only carry cribs made in the USA, Canada, or Europe, where stricter regulations are in place and quality is more transparent. ✅ Non-Toxic Teething Rails or Finishes Why it matters: Let’s be honest — babies chew on everything. That’s why we look for cribs with natural wood rails or certified non-toxic finishes that are safe if (and when) your baby bites them. Final Thoughts Your baby spends 12–16 hours a day sleeping — and their developing brain and lungs are especially vulnerable to airborne chemicals. That’s why we created this strict crib standard — so you never have to question what your child is breathing in while they rest. At Simple Steps Market, every crib we carry is: ✅ Made from real, solid wood ✅ Free from formaldehyde, glues, and high-VOC paints ✅ Certified non-toxic with GREENGUARD Gold (or better)✅ Sourced from trusted manufacturers with clean, transparent practices Simple ingredients. Simple materials. Safer sleep. Shop our curated selection of cribs.
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How We Choose the Safest Baby Conditioners
Your baby’s delicate hair and scalp deserve the safest, most nourishing care. However, many conventional baby conditioners 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 Conditioners & 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 Formaldehyde (a known carcinogen), Retinyl Palmitate (may increase skin cancer risk when exposed to sunlight), BHA (a hormone disruptor and potential carcinogen), Propylene Glycol (linked to toxicity), DEA & PEGs (may contain carcinogenic residues), and Polysorbate 80 (a potential toxin) pose potential health risks. ❌ Phenoxyethanol, a common preservative, can cause skin irritation and potential endocrine disruption with prolonged use. ❌ Silicones (Dimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Amodimethicone) can create buildup, clog pores, and prevent the absorption of nourishing ingredients. ❌ Harmful Solvents (Toluene) can cause nervous system damage, respiratory issues, and potential toxicity when absorbed through the skin. ❌ Anti-Microbial Agents (Ammonium Quaternary Compounds, Triclosan) may cause skin irritation, hormonal disruption, and contribute to antibiotic resistance. ❌ 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 ✅ 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 conditioner 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 and hair.
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Why We Only List Organic Cotton Baby Clothing
Your baby’s skin is delicate—it’s thinner, more absorbent, and more sensitive than an adult’s. That’s why at Simple Steps Market, we only list baby clothing made with certified organic cotton. When it comes to what touches your baby’s skin all day (and night), every fiber matters. Why Conventional Baby Clothing Can Be Toxic Most conventional baby clothing is made with cotton, but what many parents don’t realize is that conventional cotton is one of the most heavily sprayed crops in the world. These pesticides, herbicides, and insecticides don’t always wash out during manufacturing—and that means your baby could be exposed to toxic residue every time they wear a onesie or pair of pajamas. On top of that, conventional baby clothes are often treated with chemical dyes, synthetic finishes, and flame retardants, all of which can irritate sensitive skin or even disrupt hormone function over time. Some brands also use formaldehyde to prevent wrinkling or shrinkage—yes, the same chemical used in embalming. Why Certified Organic Cotton Matters At Simple Steps Market, we only carry clothing made from certified organic cotton, grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, GMOs, or toxic fertilizers. But it’s not just about the cotton itself—certification matters. We look for third-party certifications like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) or OEKO-TEX to ensure the entire process—from farm to finished garment—is clean and non-toxic. And yes, a small amount of stretch is okay—we allow clothing made with at least 95% certified organic cotton, with up to 5% elastane or spandex for flexibility and comfort. This still meets GOTS requirements for products labeled “organic,” which must contain at least 95% organic fibers. Here’s why that’s so important: Safer for your baby’s skin: Organic cotton is softer, more breathable, and less likely to cause rashes or irritation. No hidden chemicals: Certified organic cotton clothing avoids harmful dyes, finishes, and flame retardants. Better for the planet: Organic farming uses less water, promotes healthy soil, and protects farmers from toxic exposure. When we say we’ve done the research for you, we mean it. We only list clothing that we’d confidently put on our own children—because you deserve to shop with peace of mind. Explore our curated selection of non-toxic, certified organic cotton baby clothes—because your baby’s first wardrobe should be as pure as they are.
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