10 Things I Stopped Using After My First Baby
When I fell pregnant with my first bub, I thought I needed everything. The fancy nappy bin, the special wipe warmer, the plastic everything. But somewhere between those sleep-deprived nights and countless nappy changes, something shifted in me. I started questioning what I was bringing into our home — not just for convenience, but for my baby’s health and our planet’s future.
Three years and two kids later, I’ve completely transformed how our household runs. Here are the ten things I quietly stopped using after becoming a mum, and honestly? I’ve never looked back.
Baby Products That Got the Flick
1. Commercial Baby Wipes
This was one of the first switches I made, and it’s been an absolute game-changer. Those convenient disposable wipes are loaded with preservatives, fragrances, and chemicals I couldn’t even pronounce. Now we use reusable cloth wipes with a simple water and coconut oil solution. They’re gentler on bub’s skin, better for the environment, and save us a fortune.
2. Synthetic Fragranced Baby Products
That classic “baby smell” we all associate with newborns? It’s actually a cocktail of synthetic fragrances that can irritate sensitive skin and developing respiratory systems. I swapped out the commercial lotions and washes for simple, organic alternatives — or sometimes just plain coconut oil. My little ones smell like actual babies now, not a chemical factory.
3. Disposable Nappies (Most of the Time)
Look, I’m not going to pretend we’re 100% cloth nappy users — we keep disposables for travel and emergencies. But switching to modern cloth nappies for everyday use was easier than I expected. The upfront cost pays for itself within months, and knowing we’re not adding thousands of nappies to landfill feels incredible. If you’re curious about making the switch, there are some brilliant Aussie cloth nappy brands worth exploring.
Household Items That Had to Go
4. Conventional Cleaning Products
Once you’ve got a little one crawling around putting everything in their mouth, you start seeing your floor differently. I couldn’t stomach the thought of harsh chemicals on surfaces my baby was licking (because yes, they lick everything). Now our cleaning cupboard contains vinegar, bicarb soda, castile soap, and a few trusted natural cleaning brands. The house is just as clean, minus the toxic residue.
5. Air Fresheners and Synthetic Candles
I used to love a good scented candle, but learning about the volatile organic compounds they release changed everything. Paraffin candles and plug-in air fresheners can affect indoor air quality significantly. These days, I use a quality essential oil diffuser with pure oils, beeswax candles, or simply open the windows. Fresh air is genuinely underrated.
6. Non-Stick Cookware
When those non-stick pans start scratching and flaking, where do you think that coating goes? Right into your food. After bub arrived, I invested in good quality stainless steel and cast iron cookware. Yes, there’s a learning curve, but they’ll last forever and I’m not worried about what’s leaching into our family meals.
Personal Care Products I Said Goodbye To
7. Antiperspirant Deodorant
This one took some adjustment, I won’t lie. But the aluminium and other questionable ingredients in conventional antiperspirants concerned me, especially during breastfeeding. I switched to a natural deodorant and after a brief transition period, it works beautifully. Plus, letting your body sweat naturally is actually important for detoxification.
8. Regular Shampoo and Conditioner
The sulphates, parabens, and silicones in conventional hair products wash down the drain and can irritate sensitive scalps — including bub’s during bath time. We’ve switched to gentle, naturally-derived hair care for the whole family. My hair has never been healthier, and bath time is worry-free.
9. Disposable Menstrual Products
After experiencing pregnancy and birth, I felt more connected to my body than ever. Switching to a menstrual cup and period undies felt like a natural extension of that journey. Less waste, fewer chemicals against sensitive areas, and genuine cost savings over time. It’s one of those switches that makes you wonder why you didn’t do it sooner.
The Unexpected One
10. Plastic Food Storage Containers
Those convenient takeaway containers and cheap plastic storage solutions? They’re now gone from our kitchen. After learning about microplastics and the chemicals that can leach into food — especially when heated — I gradually replaced everything with glass and stainless steel. It’s better for meal prep, easier to clean, and I know exactly what’s touching our food.
Making the Switch Without Overwhelm
If you’re feeling inspired but also slightly overwhelmed, please take a breath. I didn’t make all these changes overnight — it happened gradually over months and years. Here are my tips for transitioning gently:
- Replace as you run out: Don’t throw everything away at once. As products finish, choose a natural alternative.
- Start with what touches skin: Baby wipes, lotions, and laundry detergent are great first switches because they have direct contact with your little one.
- Do your research: Look for Australian-made products where possible, and don’t be afraid to read ingredient lists.
- Give yourself grace: Some days you’ll use the disposable wipes because you’re exhausted. That’s okay. Progress over perfection, always.
The beautiful thing about these changes is that most of them save money in the long run while reducing waste and chemical exposure. It’s genuinely a win-win-win situation.
Becoming a mum cracked my heart wide open and made me fiercely protective of my children’s health and their future world. These small switches might seem insignificant individually, but together they’ve transformed our home into a gentler, cleaner space for our family to thrive.
I’d love to hear from you — what products have you stopped using since becoming a parent? Drop a comment below and let’s share ideas!
