As a mum of two and someone passionate about living a low-tox life, I know how important it is to pack a nappy bag that’s both practical and safe. Babies and toddlers are especially sensitive to chemicals, and many mainstream baby products contain hidden toxins that can irritate their skin (so furstrating). This toxin-free nappy bag guide is to help you prepare for outings while using safe, effective products that support your child’s health.

Why Choose Toxin-Free Products for Your Nappy Bag

Your baby’s skin absorbs chemicals more easily than an adult’s. Common items like baby wipes, sunscreens, and hand sanitisers may contain harmful ingredients such as parabens, synthetic fragrances, and phthalates. Prolonged exposure to these can lead to skin sensitivities, allergies, and hormone disruption.

Studies on children in the age range of 5–15 showed that the most common allergens in the development of dermatitis are paraben (43%), potassium dichromate (27%) and perfume (26%) [11]. Many studies show that most perfumes, even in small amounts, can cause neurological disorders in the fetus of pregnant mothers [8]. One of the causes of autism is exposure to chemicals (perfumes and medications) during pregnancy and after birth through breast milk [8]. Studies show that aromatic products emit more than 100 volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can pose a serious threat to human health.

Source: Evaluation of pollutants in perfumes, colognes and health effects on the consumer: a systematic review

That’s why a toxin-free nappy bag can help reduce your baby’s exposure to unnecessary chemicals and supports a cleaner, healthier start to life.

Essentials for a Low-Tox Nappy Bag

1. Nappies/Diapers

Choose organic nappies or ones that are free from chlorine, fragrance, and latex. Look for brands that are transparent with their ingredients.

Recommended Brands:

• Australia: Tooshies by TOM, Ecoriginals
• USA: Hello Bello, Bambo Nature

2. Baby Wipes

Mainstream wipes often contain preservatives like phenoxyethanol and fragrance. Choose non toxic baby wipes or water wipes with minimal ingredients where possible.

Recommended Brands:

• Australia: Joonya Wipes, Wotnot, WaterWipes
• USA: WaterWipes, The Honest Company

3. Nappy Cream

Avoid petroleum-based creams. I try to opt natural barrier creams free from parabens and synthetic fragrance.

Top Picks:

• Australia: Little Innoscents Soothing Cream, Weleda Calendula Nappy Change Cream, Ecostore Baby Nappy Balm
• USA: Earth Mama Organic Diaper Balm, Burt’s Bees Baby Diaper Ointment

4. Hand Sanitiser (for Mum)

Traditional sanitisers contain high levels of alcohol and synthetic fragrance. Choose plant-based options where possible.

Recommended Brands:

• Australia: Koala Eco, Sukin Antibacterial Hand Sanitiser
• USA: Everyone Hand Sanitizer

5. Spare Outfit

Choose GOTS-certified organic cotton clothing to avoid skin irritation and chemical exposure.

Top Picks:

• Australia: Purebaby, Nature Baby
• USA: Burt’s Bees Baby, Monica + Andy

6. Teether or Toy

Look for silicone or natural rubber teething toys that are free from BPA, PVC, and phthalates.

Recommended Brands:

• Australia/USA: Hevea, Haakaa

7. Natural Sunscreen

Babies over 6 months can use mineral-based sunscreens. Avoid chemical filters like oxybenzone.

Top Picks:

• Australia: Wotnot Natural Sunscreen, Little Urchin
• USA: Badger Baby Sunscreen, Thinkbaby

8. Snacks (for toddler mums)

Many snack pouches contain added sugars and preservatives. Choose organic, low-ingredient snacks where possible. Many of these can be found at your local health store or even supermarket which is super handy.

Healthy Options:

• Australia: Whole Kids, Little Bellies
• USA: Serenity Kids, Happy Baby Organics

Recap: What to Avoid in Your Nappy Bag

-Fragranced Baby Wipes or Lotions. Synthetic fragrances can trigger allergies and are often hormone disruptors. Always choose fragrance-free or naturally scented products.

-Petroleum-Based Nappy Creams. Look for alternatives like beeswax or calendula-based balms that nourish skin without toxins.

-Plastic Toys with Unknown Ingredients. Cheap plastic toys can contain PVC and other endocrine-disrupting chemicals. Opt for tested, baby-safe brands.

-Non-BPA-Free Bottles. Always verify that your feeding bottles or sippy cups are made from BPA and toxin-free materials.

-Hand Sanitisers with synthetic fragrance

Bonus Items for Eco-Conscious Mums

Cloth Nappies

If you’re using cloth, pack one or two along with a wet bag. Choose brands with OEKO-TEX certification.

• Australia: Bare and Boho
• USA: GroVia

Why This Matters

Creating a toxin-free nappy bag is important for your child’s health. Babies and toddlers are more vulnerable to toxins because they are smaller and still growing. Replacing common items with safer options can lower their chemical exposure.

Start Small, Stay Consistent

Building a toxin-free nappy bag doesn’t have to happen overnight. Start with one swap at a time, like baby wipes or cream, and work your way up. Every small change adds up to create a healthier home and future for your little ones.

Whether you’re getting ready for your first baby or are an experienced mum aiming for low-tox options, this checklist helps you pack a safe and practical nappy bag.

Please leave in the comments your favourite natural or toxin-free baby products. I’d love to hear what brands you are using!