60 Green Stocking Stuffers for Kids

In my family, we make amazing Christmas stockings (or Santa does). We take gifting very seriously, but I didn't realize how good my Dad is at this very particular type of giving until I was an adult. The key is to use magazine to make the whole thing taller and to have lots of silly things in the stocking.

 I love a great stocking, so even though the plan is to cut down the gift-buying in our household by A LOT, I would never cut the stocking. In fact, this year my plan is to do no more than four gifts and a stocking. That's it.

For kids, you can fill a stocking with cute little toys and treats that might be surprise hits for the holiday. I try to master that balance between cheap but practical items like socks or nail clippers (my Mother in Law's genius addition every year) and super fun kitschy items (usually random finds at target).

I stand by this equation, but the problem here is that when you are hanging out in the "cheap junk" aisle at Target, you certainly aren't being a good steward. That stuff is often so cheap because it is made somewhere where the person making it is treated very poorly. It's often made of plastic, and it has traveled a long way, wasting fossil fuels, for basically no reason. So triple whammy against my beloved stocking stuff. So I have started to approach it a new way.

Last year, I tried to do this, and I had a lot of successes. I am pretty sure we still took a last minute run to Target to fill out the goodies. Having done this once already, I am confident that isn't necessary, and I am pretty excited to do an all-ethical stocking this year.

Even better, I don't have to break the bank. Everything on this list is under 15 dollars! 

 One of the most common complaints lodged against Eco-friendly and Made in America Products is that they are too expensive, so people only think about greener options when they will make a BIG difference! But anyone's who has ever been on a successful diet can tell you, small changes can make the largest difference if you stick with them! So maybe this isn't the same super cheap, kitschy toy that lined our stockings before, but you can find equally fun, strange, and hilarious stuff without ever feeling like an eco-terrorist. Even a few switches out can make a big impact!

You can find toys that are plenty affordable made right here in the US. I am excited to try to load that sock with gifts that do good but don't break the bank.

Three Steps to an Awesome Kids Stocking

1. Get Things Used- I have never bought Christmas gifts used before, but I am going for it this year, especially with our Bub, who could care less whether something is new or used. My favorite for this is the mixed toy bags at Goodwill. We already bought most of the Bub's filler with two bags of Duplos. Why do people buy duplos new?

I can find so many cute toys in consignment stores, not to mention practical things like socks or hats! If you spend 2 dollars on a little toy or stuffed animal you can clean, that beats anything you will buy new! A trip to a kids consignment store or Goodwill can check off most of your boxes immediately.

2. Buy American, Eco-friendly, or Fair Trade- THIS. This change in priorities can ripple out to make a better world for the kid you fill the stocking for. That's more important than anything you can give. Look at the challenge to find these things as fun instead of intimidating- this is why we start early!

3. Re-think your Regular Candy Choices- This deserves its own post, but you might try to support some local candy before you do the same old from Hershey's (I want to love them, but I just can't anymore). You can find cool stuff right under your nose! Chocolate is an especially hot button topic for treats, so check with your local candy store and think about buying some fair trade chocolate.

Alright, let's get to the links-

I am coming up with a shorthand so you can get the information you want fast. This is the key:
The key- USA= Made in the USA, GU= Get this Used, EF- Eco-Friendly, R=Recycled Materials, Fair Trade= FT

I wouldn't expect anyone to buy everything on this list, but the key is to notice you have TONS of options. You can get anything- from super fun to completely practical- made ethically, in the United States, and with good stewardship for the environment!

Bath Toys

1. Bath Crayons (USA)- BeeUtifully Organic makes organic bath crayons that will make such for such a fun time! I want to play with these. Messy Play Kits or Krazy Kool Kits sell bath crayons too.

from Lotsaduck

2. Rubber Duckies (USA)- Everyday when I make my way to the tubbie! I find a little fellow who's cute and yellow and chubby! Lotsaduck is based out of Pittsburgh and has all sorts of adorable rubber duckies- sadly, they are closing, but you can get a good deal there right now. Celebriducks has a line of Made in the USA ducks (a little on the nose with the signage though). We bought The Bub the very simple yellow version, and it continues to be a big hit.

from Cozy Chipmunk

3. Washcloths and Puppets (USA)- These Huggable Hoots puppets look super cute and you can stuff them into a stocking easily. It might be a perfect combination of fun and practical. I also love this simple Crocodile washcloth. You can also try Granny's Craftiness or Stockings by Pat.

If you are crafty (and quick), there are some great patterns on Etsy for this kind of thing as well.

from Southern Skye Beauty

4. Fun bars of Soap (USA) - I get that soap as a gift sounds lame, but I think cool soap could be a big hit.  My favorites are these dinosaur soaps from Southern Skye Beauty. I also found mermaid soap, bath crayon soap, game controllers (check out this whole shop- looks cool!), lego soap, and because the world is wonderful macaroni and cheese soap.

Begin Again on Amazon

5. Begin Again Bathtub Toys (EF)- These bath toys are made of rubber, so no plastic, and they are dishwasher safe to make it easy on you. Also, the deep sea diver is just cool. The company is based out of Fort Collins Colorado, but I am not convinced they are actually made there.

For the Especially Little People

from the ivy lantern

6. Bibs (USA)- Your baby is so smart. But not smart enough to be disappointed when you just buy a bunch of things you need and stuff it in a stocking for their first Christmas. Bibs make for a perfect bottom layer (since it's probably too soon for candy).  Swaddle Designs makes cute inexpensive ones as well. If you want to do something a little more trendy, these super cute (and usefully neutral) bandana bibs from The Ivy Lantern. There are about 4 million bibs on Etsy so you can find what you want, but here is another long list to browse- Organic Mama Design, The Pleated Petal, Le Petite Birdie, and Bananas Boutique.

7. Feeder (USA)- These chewy feeders are so helpful when you start baby on solids or when they start to teeth (ice or frozen fruit inside and let them gnaw). May not be a regular purchase, but a nice little splurge for a stocking!

from amazon

8. First Set of Keys (R, EF, USA)- Both Green Toys and Re-play sell sets of all recycled plastic key rings. The Bub loves his; they are really good to shake. These are pretty cheap, made in the USA, and use recycled materials; I don't understand why anyone would buy other sets!

9. Jumbo Beads (USA)- Another Classic for babies, this Holgate toy helps them string beads and work on that hand eye coordination. This has been made here in the US since 1948! Also, it is awesome for an airplane time-passing toy.

10. Link Toys (USA)- Boomering Links are a perfect toy for anybody under 2. Simple often entertains them longer, and these links can easily be thrown in a purse, brought on a plane, or strewn through a car seat. Great toy and super cheap.

11. Onesies (USA)- You could get a funny or special onesie you might not splurge on otherwise.  My favorites are from Honest Elements and Jam Jam Jams. I love this Parks and Rec one from Baby Swag (out of Butler,PA!), but you should poke around on Etsy and get something that makes you smile or laugh. You can also check out buggy and bubba, Little Jonesies, and The Little Stork.

from Little Sidekick

12. Soft Blocks (USA)- Tactile soft blocks give the baby a well-rounded sensory experience. My bub loved toys like these, but you can get ones for the same amount as in the stores on Etsy, and you will be supporting a local maker instead of a big corporation. Woot! Arrows and Olives Baby sells cost-effective and pretty ones. My favorite are these high contrast ones from Little Sidekick, because those black and white patterns will totally catch a little one's eye. More options? Try Burgandy Bee Handmade,

13. Spoons and Forks (R, USA)- Yeah, this may not seem like the most fun, but you can buy one of the Green Eats sets (or just the spoons!) that will last you for years and they will fit perfectly in a stocking (and a diaper bag). Plus, my 2 year old would say forks and spoons are the most fun toys in the whole world. He loves playing with them.

from little sapling toys

14. Teether (USA, EF)- You have about a billion choices here, so you can get something really cool.  Lifefactory's teethers have been staples in our house when the baby was teething (and he just likes touching the different patterns as well). I would recommend these teethers to anyone. You can teach geography and chewing with Little Sapling Toy's state-shaped teethers, which are basically the coolest thing I've seen. I love these Feltman and Co. ones as well. Begin Again's simple teething ring wins awards and parents' love, so this might make a great gift for your little person! They won't be toothless forever! Manzanita Toys is guaranteed to have something you will love as well.

With Baby Two, I am pretty obsessed with black and white, high contrast stuff, because they really can enjoy it more. I like the cloth bunny teethers in black and white- Kadydid Designs, Pippa Ollie, and Baby Sprouts Co.

from Mom N Daughter Creation

15. Toy and Pacifier Strap (USA)- When your bub is little, you lose toys and cups all the time, they are always throwing them or dropping them, so I think the toy strap makes a lot of sense. I like the name bottle  leash too, so funny! I like this toy strap best, because it is so smart and makes so much sense. Good job Mom N Daughter Creation! Etsy has plenty of options- Henley's Headbands, The Chipped Cup, The Stitched Co, Fawn and Finn, and Clover and Birch.

16. Pacifiers (USA)- Why not just buy things that you actually need? Spoiler alert, your baby will not remember or comprehend their first Christmas, even if they are a whip of a baby. Really you should fill their stocking with cake for you. Some Nuk silcon pacifiers were made here, and they have glowing reviews.The Philips Avent Soothies are made in the US, and they were the only ones we had any luck with

17. Mittens and Hats- Great gifts and fit perfectly in a stocking. Kudos to you if you can make them yourself. My favorite are these mittens using recycled fabric from Gypsy and Lolo.

18. Car Seat Toys- I love these hanging jellyfish. Something for them to swat at.

Fun and Creative

19. Clay (USA)- Sculpey Clay became one of my favorites in my time teaching art to kids. It doesn't dry out easily, so they have time to fiddle, and if they make something they want to keep, you can set it in the oven. You can get packs in all different sizes, including small ones that might fit in a stocking.

from amazon

20. Colored Pencils (R)- I love these colored pencils made out of recycled newspaper instead of wood (they have a mini size for little fingers). They come in cute tubes that would fit perfectly in a Christmas sock!

21. Coloring Books (USA,R)- Not all are made in the USA, so always check, but many still are. You can get ones that are recycled and even teach your kid about environmentalism! This one is my favorite- so cute! My new favorite doing research this year is Wee Gallery's How to Dress a Fox (they have 5 different animals to choose from). These books are so cute, and they are made of recycled paper and soy ink- win! They sell recycled coloring murals too.

This doodle book looks really fun and different as well. This can be a perfect way to work in your little one's favorite character- Barbie, Anna and Elsa, Hello Kitty, Etsy has plenty too, from hymn lyrics to cutesy owls. My dad uses these and magazines to wrap around in the stocking to make it taller/ able to hold even more stuff. I kid you not, he's the master.

from Extra Money for Mommy

22. Crayons (USA,R)- Did you know you can get crayons in any shape ever? Any shape? And they are recycled from all those nubbins you would just throw away? You can get them in your kid's name, seashells, Chocolate Bars, dinosaurs, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. I love these eco-friendly crayons too, because they are completely biodegradable. You could also try Honey Sticks which are made of beeswax.

As an aside, when you are in the aisle with the crayons trying to make a pick, Crayola is actually probably your best bet. Stay away from the other brands, most are made overseas. Plus, Crayola is never that much more expensive. So just remember to go with Crayola if you are doing your shopping in Target.

23. Lacing Toys (USA)- Mama Made Them makes sweet whale lacing toys that might be the perfect start for a future sewer. Animal ones like this elephant are fun as well. Maple Landmark also has a set of wooden lacing toys.

from ordinary artists

24. Little Notebooks (USA)- Is there anything with more possibility than a fresh new notebook? I love these little ones from Ordinary Artists that would make perfect stocking stuffers. My beloved Decomposition Books, made from recycled paper and soy ink in the US, would be perfect as well. The Bub loves the little drawings they have on the cover and inside. If your kid is cool or manly, Field Notes has notebook sets as well.

25. Markers (USA, R)- I love Crayola. They actually collect old dried up markers and put them back into use again in their simple marker sets. I love that. I will give them all of my marker budget (larger than you might imagine) forever. Out of the box, perfect fit for a stocking. 

26. Stickers and Temporary Tattoos (USA)- Somebody has Frozen fever? Ok, everyone does. Something about those sisters. If your bub loves Frozen but you don't want to ship your money to China, look into these stickers or these ones.  They can be creative, spice up stuff the kiddo's already own, and many are still made in the US! I have also seen princess and Sofia the First stickers made here.

from Pretty Tape

27. Washi Tape (USA)- I feel like I would have loved these as a kid, and its another gift you could use to spruce up anything! These are fun and different, and open up lots of avenues for creative play that you can still pick up. These mint green ones are adorable.

28. Finger Paint (USA)- I bought finger paint at our local toy store that was made in the US. Simple and fun,

Fun Little Things

from Pearl and Violet

29. Bookmarks (USA, R)- Let's encourage that reading with fun bookmarks! My absolute favorites are from Pearl and Violet, because you can get your favorite characters poking out of your new favorite book! Owl makes bookmarks you can put pictures in out of recycled leather. If you are looking for something you can personalize, or maybe encourage your kids to gift, these plain Made in the USA bookmarks could be decorated to look amazing. Peggy's Passions makes spoon bookmarks that are so cute and can be personalized. My last favorite are Ryan Sheffield's author bookmarks.

from Ornaments 4 Charity

30. Christmas Ornaments (USA)- It would be kind of a cool tradition to put an ornament in their stocking each year that has to do with their year, then they can hang it on the tree. If you want ones made in the USA that also do good, Ornaments 4 Charity (which seems to be one amazing family) makes adorable lego ornaments and gives 100% of the proceeds to charity. So awesome!

I love this little hedgehog one as well, but you can find so many Made in the USA ornaments on Etsy.

31. Dinosaurs(USA)- The USA company that makes little green soldiers also makes dinosaur plastic toys. I personally like the Galaxy Laser Team better.

from Adopt an Alien

32. Key Chains (USA)- I love these Adopt an Alien ones, and I remember really enjoying them as a kid, despite not having any keys.  These squid ones are adorable too. Cookies and popsicles, too! You can find it all.

33. Henna Stencils and Temporary Tattoos (USA)- These are in, and they look like so much fun. You can bring any character in through these things, and you can find lots of adorable ones. Is it inappropriate to give children tattoos? I don't know, but I would put one on my child, so lucky boy.

from Treasured FC

34. Wooden Smart Phones (USA)- These teethers are hilarious, and I think the wooden smart phone might make a great imaginative toy as well.

35. Magic Wands (USA)- I actually think these simple wood magic wands look really pretty and chic unfinished, but decorating them with markers might be fun? Or you can just get to casting spells right away.

Learning Toys

36. Cards (USA)- Bicycle Standard Cards are made here in the US. Classics. Perfect gift for an older child? Time to start learning magic tricks.

37. Puzzles (GU, USA)- You could get puzzles at basically any level and then put them in the stocking broken up. This seems especially cool, because they wouldn't know what they were putting together! This is one you can definitely find in consignment stores for kids, but there are some made in the USA Maple Lamdmark makes a bunch, including this bulldozer, around 15 dollars. For older kids, you can do one of these giant floor puzzles made of recycled materials in the US. For even older kids, you can find puzzles made of all recycled materials- a California map or this Wonderous Ocean One.

38. Sandwich Stackers (R, USA)- I worked briefly at a Chrildren's Museum that had these Green Toys Sandwich Toys, and I couldn't believe just how much the kids loved them from toddlers to older kids playing restaurant.  I think they might fit a stocking perfectly and be that toy you didn't expect to be a hit, but they play with them all the time. So simple. So genius.

39. Spinny Spellers (USA)- These wood toys help new readers to play with letters and words. You can get critter ones for the smaller set.

Soft and Cuddly

from the marmalade forest

40. Eggs and Bacon Octopus (USA)- I love this breakfast monster so much. I am not sure a child would love it, but I would love you for buying this for your child.

41. Pocket Tidbits (USA)- Don't write these little crocheted balls off too quickly. You can also buy them little outfits, so this one may be a huge hit.

42. Safety Cones (USA)- Etsy, you give me faith in the universe. Thank you for these Plush Engineer safety cones.

43. Sloth Plushies (USA)- Because I hear sloths are the meaning of Christmas. I kid, but these are cute. Also from Plush Engineer, because this store is a treasure.

from Anns Craft House

44. Soft Game Controller (USA)- Another winner. The Boy is already training The Bub to sit and use the other controller while he plays. I am sure that's not developmentally sound, but these soft versions are cute.

45. Stuffed Elephant, Bunny, or Zebra (FT,R)- These little stuffed animals are exceptionally cute, and they help support women get good jobs in Malawi. Another cute little way to do good with your Christmas shopping!

from Fuzzigles

46. Puffy Balls of Awesome (USA)-  If I were buying stuffed animals for my kids for Christmas, these Fuzzigles are what I would (actually, probably will) pick. It's hard to pick a favorite.

Stuff that Moves

from amazon

47. Elephant on Wheels (EF, R, USA)- Made out of recycled plastic milk jugs (and saving TONS of energy. I didn't even realize how much), this Green Toy on wheels could be a perfect gift for someone without great hand eye dexterity (I love the pig and turtle as well). A good second Christmas stocking stuffer.

48.  Matchbox Cars (USA)- Bad news, Hot Wheels are not great for the environment, much like their regular-sized car counterparts. That doesn't mean you can't find other ice cream trucks and race cars made stateside! And TONS of used Hot Wheels are out there. I love these little Maple Landmark cars. Holgate also makes wood cars that are adorable and local. Green Toys sells adorable racecars (including a pink one!), but it might cramp the stocking- I would recommend these smaller cars instead.

49. Yoyos (USA)- Another classic gift. I never got good at a yoyo, but if your child is older than 2, he or she is already more coordinated than I am.

50. Tops (USA)- I can't remember being too psyched about tops when I was a kid, but these simple ones from Maple Landmark might be just the kind of challenge that makes the holiday fun. A throwback in a good way.

Making Noise

from Amazon

51. Kazoos (USA)- Gah, I love a good kazoo. A staple at my Grammy's house, and my Grammy is the grand poobah of gifting. You can get this one from West Music for 90 cents!

52. Percusion Blocks (USA)- I don't know why you would buy a percussion block for your own child, but maybe to stick in your enemies' childrens' stockings? Evil Santa Claus?

53. Slide Whistle (EF)- This slide whistle, birthed in Gerrmany, will perfectly fill the need for making lots of annoying noise in an eco-friendly cacophany of annoying. Once, we played Reading Rainbow in a talent show on slide whistles. It is my Christmas wish that your children can enjoy a similar moment (we were in our 20's).

54. Train Whistle (USA)- Toot toot! This whistle is perfect for the Thomas-lover you spawned. Maple Landmark makes one too.

Practical Stuff

 

from Pumpkin Bowties

55. Hair Clippies (USA)- You can find a million hair things on Etsy made by a person with their own little business. You can buy your children hair stuff for little money. Here are some hair clips and hair bows like these from Masterpieces of Fun Art. Sparkly hair ties. Lots of sparkly hair ties. Minion Hair Ties. Frozen hair ties. Disney hair clippies.

56. Nail Clippers (USA)- My Mother in Law gives nail clippers in stockings every year. Genius, because nail clippers seem to disappear so quickly. I don't know where they go, but you never find them. You can start the tradition early with these baby clippers. For bigger kids, bigger clippers.

57. Sippy Caps (USA)- We got these caps this Christmas to add to our Lifefactory bottles, which you already know I am obsessed with. If you are getting to the sippy cup phase, think about going glass or recycled!

58. Socks (USA, R)- Solmate Socks are my favorite. We just bought a set for the bub (they come in sets of 5. How cute is that? Perfect fun socks to put in a stocking. We recently became huge fans of Pact socks as well.

59. Toothbrush (R, USA)- Preserve makes toothbrushes out of recycled plastic. They are completely beloved by our toddler, so this may seem like a bummer gift, but I think it makes a lot of sense. If you have a truly little little one, the banana toothbrush was also well-loved here. If you are trying to make gifting about things your child needs, not just what they want, this could be a good step.

Re-Play from Amazon

60. Snack Containers (R, USA)- Maybe fill these absolutely wonderful replay Snack Stacks with other treats to gift them? Like put some candy  or another surprise inside? Mix red and green for a festive feel. Then you will have snack containers and cut down on wasteful zip loc bags. Win!

Lastly, BUY YOUR CANDY LOCAL!!! America still has tons of candy companies working in the US, so there is no reason to buy those Hershey kisses made in Elsewhere. Buy less candy, but buy good candy. I hope you found lots of inspiration for your stockings here!

If you are interested in green shopping inspiration, check out the List of Shopping Lists! You can transform your shopping this Christmas!

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An Earth-Friendly, American-Made Baby Registry- Pregnancy, Delivery, and the 4th Trimester

Congratulations, you are going to spawn! When you get pregnant, it doesn't take long before you realize that having a baby takes a lot of stuff. A whole lot of stuff.

 If you are trying to be Earth-friendly, this can cause a real dilemma- you are about to get a whole bunch of items that you might only use for a month or two, and a lot of it is made cheaply (meaning some super sketchy labor policies, non-recyclable materials, all sorts of nonsense). If you are trying to encourage American labor, this can be tricky as well, since most major baby clothing brands are made elsewhere. This is the bad news.

The good news is that it can be done! Welcome to the Earth-Friendly and American-Made Baby Registry.

I wish I had realized how many possibilities there are when we made our registry, so this is what I have learned along the way. I will also try to mention products I have really loved, because I know I looked for that when I was perusing mommy blogs to make our registry. Not everything will be perfect, but you can make many choices in baby preparation that do a little bit for the world before your baby even gets here! 

The first huge step you can take toward buying ethically for your baby is when you are planning his or her space and making your registry. You can't control everything that your family and friends buy you for your future spawn (you will get at least one onesie with "Mommy's future ballerina" or "Future Slugger" on it. I am sorry, but we all live through it), but you can try to be strategic about what you ask for. First, think about how you group what you need: 

1. Can you re-use something else to fill that purpose? Old shelves might work for toys or an old dresser for a changing table with a little creativity and a fresh coat of paint. Think creatively about your nursery, because you may have a lot of what you need already.

2. Can I buy it (or be gifted it) used? This is HUGE for clothes. Baby consignment stores are relatively easy to find, and there are usually sizable collections of baby clothes at Goodwill and the like. Gifting economies (like the Buy Nothing Project) have baby clothes up for grabs almost everyday. You can't stop other people, but you can commit to cutting out most new clothes from your own purchases. We can talk more about this later.

 Go see your local consignment places first, because you may be surprised. We got our changing pads there, as well as blankets (those Aden and Anais ones that people love, as well as the little ones with animal heads, which are great but super creepy), toys, and books. Join your Buy Nothing Project (or start one!)- we have already lent out a swing and a bouncer (both of which are absolutely essential for about 5 minutes, and then you never use it again). 

3. Can I find it made in the USA or out of Sustainable materials? Your priorities are your own, but I will try to give you a heads up on some of the products and companies that are more ethical and responsible.

4. Can I find it Open Box? You can also usually find "Open Box" versions on many of the big baby products on Amazon, meaning someone returned it almost immediately, but everything is in place. Once you are filling those gaps in your registry, this can be a Godsend, because they are always cheaper and it keeps the world from being filled with stuff people aren't using. 

So, if you have a dresser that you can use for a changing table, don't register for a changing table! And if you find a good baby bathtub in a consignment store, don't register for that either! Without further ado, these are some of the good options we found (and I will try to at least mention other ethical, green, or American-made products and you can report back if you liked them):

The first step for many (though not all) of us, most of which happens before you even start your baby wishlist, is taking care of yourself, before, during, and after that big day where a bunch of strangers hang out around your business (ah, the memories). This can get overlooked, but let's take a minute and focus on that, because you do make a lot of little purchases, and they do matter.

while you are prego 

Baby Books (used)-  What to Expect is good to have, but you probably don't need to buy it fresh when there are hundreds of copies waiting to get love again (and I bet you will use websites and apps more). You could also check your local library for some of that wisdom. If you think something is particularly great- buy it! You can also get the digital version if you love trees, but also want to pay people for their intellectual contribution.

Belevation from Amazon

Belly Band (used)- The Ingrid and Isabel model is genius, but it is also imported. Check out your consignment store for these gems, because really, what else are people going to use them for? So you can find them in most baby consignment stores that sell maternity clothes or even thread up. A belly band and a hair band can keep you regular clothes lasting so much longer. Ingrid and Isabel's are now imported, so if you need to get one new, I recommend Belevation or My Bella Mama.

Belly Care (new)- The effectiveness of these things is pretty well-debated. but I loved the way it felt, and I made it through without stretch marks. Two of the brands I loved and used are made in the US; Burt's Bee's Mama Bee Belly Butter (I used this most days after the shower, and if nothing else it felt good and smelled great) and Mother's Special Blend (mostly after the fact).

Other Options- Bobbie's Belly and Body Balm, Best Nest Wellness, Nine Naturals, Midwife and Mum Belly Butter, Baby Belly Bar, Green Earth Naturals, Empire Squid, Wandering Mom Shop (this one looks especially great), and Earth Wise Skincare Co

from Neodesigner

Body Pillows, Support Bands and Ginger Pops (just wait)- As soon as you are pregnant, it's tempting to address all the crazy symptoms you might have. But you won't have all of them. In fact, most pregos don't even get most of them. Address your discomforts as they come! Your pregnancy will be all your own.

If you do decide one (or all) of these are needs, I have you covered. For a body pillow, I have used a giant stuffed fish, which I highly recommend, but if you can't find one (and you dont want to buy the Made in China Boppy pillows- why does a pillow ever need to be imported?)- Neodesigner, Leachco, Coop Home Goods, SnugglePedic, Relax Home Life, Five Diamond Collection, and Millas World.

Support bands will supposedly help your back if you are having a lot of pain. You have a few Made in the USA options, though you might try a friend's first to see if it helps- Gabrialla, Bao Bei Maternity (for sports), Underworks, or Alpha Medical.

Ginger Pops can be a lifesaver for nausea, so it might be a good first stop before considering medication.Eco-friendly brands? Preggie Pops and Tummy Drops,

Clothing (mostly used, just a few pieces new)- Contrary to popular belief, many of us can go a pretty long time before calling in the maternity clothes. Also good to know is that most baby consignment stores have small maternity sections. The first time, I spent too much on clothes. This time, I mostly filled my closet with used clothes. Name brand stuff too! If you make your wardrobe with secondhand pieces, you can focus your money on key pieces.

My essential list for maternity clothing is pretty short- 1-2 pairs of jeans, 1 stretchy maxi skirt, 5 shirts, 2-3 casual dresses, 1 nice dress, and 3 pairs of leggings.

Where can you find solid, made in America pieces? Both Motherhood Maternity and A Pea in the Pod have Made in the USA filters so you can find things easily. Etsy has tons of t-shirt, robe, and maternity dress options, so it is worth looking there. Another great place to look is Pink Blush Maternity- not everything is made in the US (you have to check) but much of it is and they have extended sizes compared to lots of other places.

I like Bun Maternity's choices for ponchos and sweatshirts. Majamas sells all kinds of maternity pajamas.

-One Pair of Jeans- These pregnancy jeans were made in the US by AG Jeans, and are my favorite jeans I have ever owned. Writing this, I kind of miss these jeans. They seem expensive for maternity clothes, but they got constant use and stayed out the longest of all my maternity clothes.

To add, for my second time around, I bought another pair of American-made maternity jeans from J Brand, and they are still great but they are TIGHT. I would recommend sizing up for sure. These jeans I bought are expensive, but I wore that one pair of maternity jeans constantly (even past being pregnant), so it felt like a solid investment. If you just can't on jeans you won't wear long, go to a local baby consignment store- ours has so many you can ask to see more if you can't find ones you want. My best advice is to go stretchy and to make sure you know your preference about how much of your belly is covered.

- One Fancy Dress- This dress was another huge winner which has since been passed around to prego neighbors. Nothing should be called flattering when you carry a giant cauldron on your front, but damn this dress is flattering. From Ingrid and Isabel (not everything is from China), and you can tell they know their way around a prego- slightly longer but flowy sleeves, empire waist, and a great view of some oversized nunjas.

This year, I bought three casual dresses used, but I did splurge on one Rachel Pally dress. This one isn't it, but I do love what I got (and it is made in the US). If you are going to splurge, you need to find things you feel genuinely beautiful in.

- A Few Versatile Pieces- Say it with me- Maxi dress. You can buy a few pieces that give you space in that first trimester that will stretch as you grow and make for good wear when the baby comes. I love a good Made in America maxi from Modcloth. I have the Breezy Night Stroll dress, but you do what works for you.

-Some Shapewear- This sounds like a joke, but it is nice to have some things that hold you in. For me, I just wanted something to keep my giant prego thighs separate so I could still walk everywhere. Belevation has great options, and they are all made here.

Nursing Bras (new) - You think this is something to worry about late in pregnancy, but as soon as you are thinking "bigger bra" you should think about getting really supportive nursing bras with clasps. Rather than buying two sets of not great bras, buy one set of really supportive bras (because your boobs have it so hard anyway).  I would recommend Bella Materna. Most of their stuff is made in America, and they have a stellar  reputation and customer service.

Also, people talk about "sleeping bras" or soft bras which look like a sports bra. Actually, what it reminds me of is a starter bra. I think they are too wimpy for the task at hand. Here is a US-made one from Belly Bandit in case it turns out to be just what you need, but I wouldn't recommend them.

Did I mention you can get almost everything you need used? Do that. Check Thred Up if you don't have any consignment nearby! Don't waste a bunch of money on clothes you will only wear for a few months! But it also isn't the time to buy junk that will make it straight to the landfill. You don't want your baby's world to be a giant landfill.

Prenatal Vitamins (new)- Yep, you need them. Check the bottle and get them in bulk (if you plan to breastfeed, you have a long run with those horse pills). Beyond that, my best advice

Workout DVDs- You can buy some of the gems (my favorite is Summer Sanders and her sister in law- on sale for 1 cent). There are plenty of options, just be sure to check the Used section.

what to bring to the hospital

We way overpacked for the hospital and then my husband just kept forgetting our bag in the car. So we spent all but the last day with just a third of what we had planned. The point of this is, you will need less than you think. The bub spent his first two days diaper only, and you don't want to miss any good skin to skin time. I wouldn't buy anything specifically for this time unless you think you would use it again.

We got our packing list here, which includes genius things like a phone charger (you will be sitting in bed a lot). I would add your camera charger, a surprise bag for your partner, and flip flops for the shower (bring socks too! hospitals are cold).

I am not going to do too much for these, but I do want to point out that there isn't anything on this shopping list (like so many others) that you can't buy with ethical materials or Made in the US.

from Ginger Lous

A Going Home Outfit (new)- Last time, we used a newborn outfit gifted to us. I think Carter's made it. Now, I am planning on going big and getting something on Etsy, since it is literally the only newborn thing I am buying. Etsy has so many stores that sell just this kind of adorable thing to browse through- Monroe's House, Jolie and June, Ginger Lous, Little Beans, Baby Nell, Gigi and Max, The Southern Closet 101, and Maine Girl Creations.

One Swaddle Blanket (used)- I have talked about swaddle blankets on my Don't Buy Aden and Anais post, and I will talk about it more later in the registry. You can find used Aden and Anais blankets in pretty good condition at many kid's consignment stores, so if you are feeling like you have to be in on the trend, do it that way. My quick suggestion is one Snug Bug muslin blanket to practice, but they will have lots of blankets at the hospital for you.

from Bliss Joy Bull

Toiletry Bag, Shower, and/ or Make Up Bag (wait)- Do you have any of these already? Then they will work just fine. I also think you overestimate how much you will be sprucing in those first few days. I must have showered, but I don't remember it, and it would have been a rinse off. Bring the toiletries you can't live without, but you don't need tons of make up or gussing tools. A few options if you don't have the bags you need- Bliss Joy Bull,  Jack and Mulligan, Dana Herbert, The Club Bag, Purifyou reusable mesh bags, Gracie Designs, and Needle and Oak.

Shampoo and Conditioner Bottles (new)- Never buy those little travel-sized shampoos! Are you crazy!? It's just waste. If you want something that size, try a cool reusable bottle like these from Moyo Natural Labs (my new favorites). I have these GoToob ones, and they need to travel in their own biobag, but otherwise, they are awesome and waste-free. You can use the same ones for a long, long time and keep tons of "travel-sized" waste out of landfills.

Toothbrush (you have it)- Ok, you have one of these already. I get that. But if you are ready to make an eco-friendly change (and this is a perfect opportunity- almost all toothbrushes are fresh plastic and made in China), try a recycled plastic toothbrush from Preserve or a bamboo toothbrush.

Hairbrush (you have it)- I feel confident if you need one, one already lives in your home, but if you are looking to replace there are made in America and eco-friendly options.

Moisturizer and Face Wash (you have it)- If these things matter to you, you already have these products (and probably some failed experiments) at home. We have been trying to find natural and made in America face wash we love, and so far I think Avalon Organics is winning. For moisturizer, we have stuck with Aveeno's moisturizer and sunscreen combo; it's made in Canada, and it has served us well for so many years I can't talk The Boy out of it.

2 Maxi Dresses (new/used)- Look up! Already covered this. If you are trying to breastfeed, bring something you can get a boob out of easily. Otherwise, whatever you already have in maternity clothes will be perfect.

One Cardigan (you have it)- Just bring something you already have at home. It's just to stay warm if the maxi dress isn't cutting it!

One Nursing Tank/ Pajama (new/used)- I covered this in the pregnancy section, and honestly, this is only if you are a pajama pants and top kind of girl. At least for me, I was still in a hospital gown most of the time, so I just wore a pair of old pajama shorts underneath. Nothing fancy or special. You know which of your business you feel alright having out.

Phone Charger (you have it)- Ack, alright, there is one thing you can't buy Made in the USA. As soon as they make a smart phone in the US, I will be all over it.

Camera Charger (you have it)- Yeah, yeah. Same story. For the record, electronics are the worst. You can sometimes find something refurbished, but otherwise, no really good options exist.

Socks (maybe 1 pair new?) - I wore a pair of fox socks in the hospital with the Bub, and I feel like homey socks makes the cold hospital seem a little better. The bad news is that Sock it to Me and Hot Sox are both imported, so if you want to cut down on unecessary shipping, you have to get more creative looking for novelty socks. My current favorites are Solmate Socks- they are made in the US with recycled yarn, and I love that they intentionally don't match! We have some for the Bub, and we get way more compliments than you might expect.

Other Options- For Bare Feet make their (fishy!) socks in Indiana. Wheelhouse makes novelty socks here in the States, though seemingly only of cats. Sockwell makes their socks in the US, and they even have gradual compression socks, which will be great if you swell or have a c-section (this might be my pick this time). Mad Sports Socks and World's Softest sell US-made socks as well.

fourth trimester

Nursing Pads (new)- You will see lots of these one time use, disposable nursing pads AND IT MAKES NO SENSE. What evil villain convinced us that this was something to throw away? So much garbage (and wasted money)  They wash up just like anything else in your laundry and are perfectly reusable. This one is more than a little annoying. My pick? Love your Reusables are organic, made in America, and around the same price as a box of the the disposables (but they will last for much longer). If you want to register for something more fun, I think Marley's Monsters has adorable designs to really spice up those nipples (I kid, but not really).

Other Options- NuAngel, Baby Kicks, Loveybums, Baby Greeters, Prarie Love Organic, Soft and Scrubby, and Greening Boutique.

Nursing Pajamas (used or new)- It is probably fine to get used, but these aren't something I have noticed in stores. You probably don't need a ton (2 or 3 at the most), but it is nice to not have to fight the battle of getting your nunjas out early on when they already hurt. Majamas are made in the USA and have glowing reviews.

Nursing Tank (used or new)-  Tanks with snaps were a big part of my nursing mainstay. You could do a button up and easily stay mostly covered. You can sometimes find them in Maternity sections in consignment stores, but in general, your best bet is probably to get an American-made version. I really like this ruffled one from Shop Pretty Girl- perfect for summer. This one from Preggers Maternity is also a support tank.

Post-partum Belly Wrap (new)- I didn't find these particularly helpful after my c-section, but some people do swear by them, especially helping them refind their shape and accelerate healing. I may not have been committed enough to wearing it, but I didn't mind wearing my Belly Bandit. Belly Bandits are one of the most loved versions of this idea, and they are Made in the USA! This one looks even better because it is made from bamboo. Bellefit are also (mostly?) made in America. 

Sanitary Pads and Panty Liners (new)- This blog has never touched on this, but pads and panty liners, like diapers make a whole lot of waste and aren't very eco-friendly at all. Best case scenario, we would all use reusable ones all the time, but I can't imagine being ok with my mother or mother-in-law having to deal with that mess while I recovered post-birth. If you are doing all your own laundry, maybe that would work for you, but let's look at some other options too.

Organyc makes organic cotton pads that are biodegradable and much kinder to the wearer than the bleached things we all grew up with. Maybe not perfect for regular shopping, but worth it post-partum? Natratouch also has all-cotton pads (so biodegradable and healthy), and their cotton is even grown in the United States. Honestly, Seventh Generation's offering is pretty freaking lame, and it looks like they aren't even made in the US, but it is still better than plastic-lined and chlorine soaked panty liners that mainstream brands schlep. Veeda liners look a little better.

Alright! Be on the look out for Part 2 next week and please leave comments if there are things I should add! It can be tough to do all this research as 1 person, but if we share our ideas, I think we can make a big difference!

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