Natural Maternity Kit
Sustainable childbirth starts with your preparation
You are pregnant and want to prepare well for the birth. Chances are you’ve already read or heard it somewhere: you also need a maternity kit. But what if you’d prefer a natural maternity kit? A sustainable option, without unnecessary plastic, disposable items, or synthetic materials? Good news: there are wonderful alternatives, and with this blog we are happy to guide you.
What is a natural maternity kit?
A natural maternity kit is an eco-friendly alternative to the standard maternity kit you often receive through your health insurance. Instead of plastic pads and synthetic maternity pads, the sustainable kit contains products made of organic cotton and biodegradable materials, washable cloths, and care products with natural ingredients. So you can take care of yourself, your baby, and the environment!
What’s in a sustainable maternity kit?
The contents of a natural maternity kit are broadly similar to the standard kit, but in an eco-friendly version. This kit includes, among other things:
- Underpads made of bamboo or organic cotton (washable)
- Maternity pads made of natural materials
- Natural baby oil and diaper cream, without perfume
- Sterile gauze pads and a cord clamp (sometimes bioplastic)
- Washable nursing pads
With some providers of sustainable maternity kits, you can select the items yourself. That way, you only take what you expect to use and don’t need to accept what you won’t.
Do you really need a maternity kit?
Yes, even if you plan to give birth in the hospital. After all, you never know if labor will progress faster than expected, or if you might unexpectedly give birth at home. Moreover, it’s also handy during the postpartum week itself. A natural maternity kit then provides not only practical items but also peace of mind. You know you are well-prepared and have made a sustainable choice.
Where can you get a natural maternity kit?
There are more and more providers of sustainable maternity kits. Online you can find great options at specialized eco-webshops. Often you can put together your own kit. Pay attention to certifications such as Ecocert, GOTS, or BDIH, which indicate that the products are truly sustainable and safe. And a tip: some insurers (partly) reimburse a natural maternity kit. Check this with your insurance provider.
Have you already received a standard maternity kit? Pass it on!
Have you already received a standard maternity kit through your health insurer and don’t want to use the entire kit, or the non-sustainable items in it? Pass it on! Throwing it away is a real waste and unnecessary. There are always expectant mothers who will be very happy with it. You can hand in the unused maternity items with us, and we’ll make sure they get a good destination. Or check the Baby Hope Foundation website for a collection point near you.
What else do you need for the postpartum week?
In addition to the items in the maternity kit, there are a few basics that are useful to have at home for the birth:
- Maternity mattress or an extra fitted sheet
- A soft hot water bottle
- Extra underwear and pajamas
- Snacks, tea, and a nice playlist 😉
A comfortable postpartum week starts with good preparation.
Frequently asked questions about the natural maternity kit
What is a sustainable alternative to a maternity kit?
A natural maternity kit with washable materials and natural care products.
What’s in a maternity kit?
Underpads, maternity pads, gauze pads, a cord clamp, mesh underwear, and disinfectants: everything you need for your birth and postpartum week.
What’s in the natural maternity kit?
The exact contents vary by provider, but most natural maternity kits include reusable underpads and washable nursing pads, eco-friendly maternity pads and gauze, and natural care products for you and your baby.
Is a maternity kit necessary for a hospital birth?
Yes, it’s always wise to have a maternity kit at home, even for a planned hospital birth.
Can you return a standard maternity kit?
Yes, bring the unused items to us and we’ll ensure they are properly repurposed.
Is a natural maternity kit suitable for every place of birth?
Yes, wherever you plan to give birth, the sustainable version of the maternity kit is just as suitable as the standard one.
Choose what suits you, for your birth and postpartum period
Whether you give birth at home, in the hospital, or at a birth center, you can always choose a natural maternity kit. With it, you give your baby a great start, still enjoy all the comfort for yourself, and contribute to less waste in the world. Want to know more about sustainable childbirth? Or simply meet a midwife nearby? Then make an appointment and we’ll see you soon!
