One mama's Perspective on Living Lightly on our Earth

Sharing information, products and experiences to help keep our children safe, green and happy!

Showing posts with label Vancouver Island. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Vancouver Island. Show all posts

Tuesday, February 2, 2016

Choosing the Right Crib Mattress for your Baby!

When you're planning for baby to arrive one of the most important purchases is the crib mattress. Your baby can spend up to 20 hours sleeping in the newborn phase! That's a lot of time spent on a crib mattress- you want to be sure you've chosen a toxin free, safe and comfortable mattress for your baby.

All of our mattresses at Abby Sprouts in Victoria BC Canada are Green Guard Certified- this means they've been tested by a third party and given their seal of approval so you can sleep easy.

Quality Crib Mattresses range in price from about $200-500 depending on the manufacturer, materials and type of mattress you choose.

Be weary of companies trying to jump on the natural baby wagon and marketing their product as natural by putting a bunch of green leafs or alike on the packaging. What you want to know is if there is any chemical flame retardants and what type of plastic has been used if the mattress is waterproof in addition to what the inside of the mattress is made from. Steer clear of vinyls, Polyurethane foam and brominated flame retardants as well as any mattress without firm edge support. 



If budget is a primary concern and even spending $200 is going to stretch your family budget. The basic Lullaby Earth Crib Mattress is a great budget friendly option that will suit your needs without compromising your values. Bonus it's lightweight so changing sheets is actually quite easy! (If you're looking for an added feature there's a 2-Stage Lullaby Earth Crib Mattress as well which means one firm side for Infants and a softer side for toddlers).
 
 
 
 

If you're looking for the best of the best, choose a Naturepedic crib mattress.

Naturepedic is the only company that uses low density, food-grade polyethylene for the purpose of waterproofing and dust mite proofing. Strict independent testing confirms there are no phthalates or any toxic chemicals in this polyethylene. A waterproof mattress is important when dealing with messy babies because any moisture in the mattress could cause mould to grow. If you opt for the non-waterproof make sure to get a waterproof crib mattress protector!

None of the Naturepedic baby or crib mattresses contain any wool or latex (which can be allergens). They use certified organic cotton as the filling material. There is no polyurethane foam in their mattresses. With Naturepedic’s innovative design, the mattresses passes all Federal and State flammability standards without the use of any fire retardant chemicals or barriers. They use organic cotton fabric, organic cotton fiber and PLA fiber (made from plant starch).

All Naturepedic baby and crib mattresses are GOTS certified. They are certified to the GOTS standard by Oregon Tilth Certified Organic (OTCO) and Control Union (CU). All Naturepedic mattresses passed independent testing by the strictest GREENGUARD Select standard.
In a Naturepedic mattress, there are no flame retardants or flame retardant barriers, no perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs), no antibacterial treatments or biocides, no glues or adhesives, no allergens, and no GMO cotton or other GMO fibers.


Naturepedic Offers a Full Line of Crib Mattresses to choose from which makes it a challenge for the indecisive!





There is 3 Main Types and here's the Jist of Each:
 
 

The Classic Lightweight Crib Mattress by Naturepedic:

  • The Mattress Core is wave foam support system instead of coil inner springs. 
  • Lightweight Means Easy to Change Sheets. Perhaps less durable than innerspring models though if you're planning to use for subsequent children. 
  • Polyethylene Food grade Waterproofing.  
  • Budget Friendly 
 
 

The Ultra Crib Mattress with Inner Spring and Organic Cotton Fill, Seamless:
  • Features a Durable 252 Inner Coil System 
  • Filling is just organic cotton + steel inner coils
  • Polyethylene Food Grade Waterproofing featuring seamless edges so there is no where for liquid to enter unlike traditional mattress edges
  •  Available in Regular Infant Firm on Both Sides or Dual Firmness ie. 1 Infant Side and 1 Toddler Side
 
 
 
 
The Non-Waterproof Quilted Organic Cotton with Innerspring Mattress
  • Offer 252 Coil Durable Inner Spring System
  • More mature Quilted Organic Cotton Top
  • The entire crib mattress is certified organic to the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). This ensures that your crib mattress meets a healthy non-toxic standard and is truly organic!
 
Give us a call at the store at 250-294-8978 or come into Abby Sprouts Eco-Friendly Baby and Kids Store at 1841 Oak Bay Ave. in Victoria BC Canada

We do offer free local deliver for crib mattresses too!
 
 
 






Saturday, April 9, 2011

Savvy Squirrel Coupon Book Winner!!

Congratulations Jenn!

You've won the Savvy Squirrel Coupon Book.


Emailing you now.

Thank you everyone for entering!!

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Savvy Squirrel Coupon Book Giveaway & Local Love!

Your chance to win Family Focused- Local Savings in the form of The Awesome Savvy Squirrel Coupon Book!
The Savvy Squirrel Coupon Book is all about supporting local business!

So in the spirit of supporting local- let's check out some locally made goodies

You'll find a coupon inside from Momma Goose Baby Care, a locally made line up of skin care for expecting mom and baby too. Also, available at Abby Sprouts!


How about some locally made, wooden toddler keys for teething and play?!
We love these- so does Abby!

New! Locally Made, Organic Cloth Balls
These balls are filled with lamb's wool- perfect for baby and toddlers. Much more appealing than the (potentially toxic!) plastic ones too. 

Tabitha and Lale are the two fantastic moms behind Savvy Squirrel- you can check out their website and buy your own coupon book there too.

I love supporting small local companies just like myself and when you spend your dollars locally you are truly supporting us little guys for which I'm sure we're all thankful for- I know I am!

I've recently entered a contest from a local web design company to win a new website and logo etc which would be such an amazing opportunity for my little business (and something I likely will never be able to afford!). So I'm asking for your vote, please, if you have a minute- I would appreciate it so much! Please show your support and vote here. I would be so grateful!

i have a handful of coupon books left for sale if you're interested too.

 How to Enter:

Comment below and let us know your fave locally made product at Abby Sprouts!
Be sure to leave an email address or way to contact you if you win.

The Savvy Squirrel Coupon Book is Victoria, BC focused but there is a 20% off coupon to Abby Sprouts so we'll leave the contest open to all.
Good Luck!












Saturday, January 8, 2011

We survived Christmas and Boxing Week- Phew! So What's Next?

Our kiosk space at University Heights is now packed up and we're back to online based sales and free cloth diaper demos from home for now. It was so wonderful to meet so many local customers in person and to bring more awareness to eco-friendly products.

 My sister Jenn, worked many hours at the booth too so I'm sure many of you had a chance to meet her as well. 

The Green Toys Tug Boats were super popular along with our fantastic wooden stacking rainbows (which we're currently sold out of!). All be it a very small space it was a great chance to get my feet wet with a little brick and mortar reality before making any big decisions on that front. While I really love the online business, it's growing steadily and Abby will be in school before I know it I'm sure so I'm beginning to take a look around at possible locations for Abby Sprouts. I have a feeling it will be along road to find the right space at the right price and terms etc but it's fun to look and dream of course. 
Our Clementine Art Crayons were constantly admired by passer by's too.

So What's Next? For now, I'm considering all the extra's that come with a a 'real' location and how that will all play out. I'm also wondering about the importance of parking, accessible buildings, windows and corners, displays, signs and all the other fun stuff that comes with setting down roots for Abby Sprouts in Victoria. Of course, the online shop will continue and probably grow to include more variety as time goes by. I'm always open to new products, requests and special orders.  All what ifs and possibilities are fun and exhausting! 

Our Ever Popular and Awesome Priced ($17.95) Chef Set made from Recycled Milk Jugs!

So I believe a Thank you is in order to all our fabulous customers new, old and loyal because we've had a fantastic first year and are hopeful for many more to come. It's such a great feeling to be supported and encourage to continue with an ethical family style business and I of course could not have done it with out all of you fantastic customers and the huge help from my family up front and behind the scenes.



I hope you have all had a wonderful 2010 and let's go for even better 2011.



Friday, November 5, 2010

Holiday Shopping in Victoria, BC at University Heights Shopping Center

Abby Sprouts is at University Heights Shopping Center now until Nov. 24 and then Dec. 6 to Christmas Eve. Please come down and see us in person if you're local! Of course, we are still offering Free Shipping over $49 in Canada and over $99 to the USA. 



Our collection of Eco Friendly Toys, Organic Baby and Childrens Clothing,  Organic Baby Needs including adorable hand knits are all on display. Select Cloth Diapers are there as well and we are more than happy to give you a diaper demo and explain the pros and cons. 



University Heights Shopping Center is located at 3980 Shelbourne St. at the corner of McKenzie Ave. Map it here.


Amber teething necklaces are also on display and a great time to come down and choose your favourite in person.

Some of our Holiday Goodies have already arrived and are going quickly! Keep your eyes out for the top Stocking Stuffers coming soon.

Current 'Staff' Picks

Jenn's Fave:
 
The Green Toys Recycling Truck made from 100% Recycled Milk Jugs!

Steph's Pick:
I love these natural soy Crayons but all the Clementine Art supplies are fantastic.

Thanks for all your support!

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

The Baby Fair is this Weekend!

Are you going? Want to Win a Pair of Weekend Passes?
Abby Sprouts has 2 Pairs of Weekend Passes for the Vancouver Island Baby Fair to Giveaway!

So Let's talk about the Fair first, before we get to the good, free stuff.

The Vancouver Island Baby Fair is different in a good way. 

Highlights for me:

  • Photo Contest, but it's not about the contest (for me anyway) as much as getting a professional picture for only $10 that is donated directly to the Greater Victoria Down Syndrome Society
  • The Shopping is incredible and all in one place, go ahead and compare prices within walking distance
  • You get to get your hands on cloth diapers!
  • It's incredibly baby, child friendly with fully stock change area with diapers, helpful staff and clean changing station!
  • Oh-- Bobs & LoLo are coming and playing 4 shows!
  • Completely Breast Feeding friendly with a baby feeding area in private with couches or pit stops all around. 
  • Shirley, the woman who puts this fair on, is amazing and you might get to meet her.
  • Stroller Parking by donation if you want to wear your baby or let your toddler walk while keeping the stroller near
  • Baby Races
  • We'll be there! Booth 80/81 en route to the photo contest and next to the baby bistro!
  • Some fabulous prize packages to be won including a little something for Abby Sprouts! 
We will have an awesome promo going on for those who come visit us at the baby fair this weekend as well. 

So, how to win, just leave a comment, (make sure to include an email address or means of reaching you!) and tell us what item you are most looking forward to seeing, buying, trying or that we just can't leave behind!




Make sure you come see us at booth 80/81!

 




Sunday, June 13, 2010

Little Late but Better than Never All Better Balm Update

Ok, so we're into Day 5 of applying the All Better Balm by Momma Goose and have seen improvement with her horrible rash. Yesterday it seems to flare up more I think because she had a sun dress on and wouldn't stop stretching but still looks better.

On another note is working wonders on relieving my ridiculously painful sun burn from yesterday too. I guess I should have had the Sun Defense on!


Hopefully I'll have one of a rash free baby soon!

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

Momma Goose All Better Balm Gets a Real Test!



I have tried many products to clear up the rash behind my daughter's knees and I'm yet to have any luck finding a product that will completely clear it and be safe and gentle on her skin. I did try the Lalabee baby butter but it really is only a moisturizer so just helped with the dryness but not the rash itself. It seems to have gone from bad to worse lately and it just looks so sore.



 Here's the blurb about Momma Goose All Better Balm, handmade in Victoria, BC, Canada! 


All Better Balm - A wonderful cure-all. Great to treat cradle cap,
rashes, burns, minor scrapes, eczema, and even diaper rash. Coconut
oil has natural anti-fungal properties to combat rashes, while
calendula, comfrey and St John's wort provide excellent healing
properties. This cream is a perfect bum cream for cloth diapers!

The photo of her rash is from today and I put the all better balm on about an hour ago now.  I figure the best way to see if it works well is to do a real time test. I'll post new photos tomorrow or the next day.



Saturday, June 5, 2010

Another Winner!!

Congratulations Desiree!! You've won 2 Tickets to the Vancouver Island Baby Fair!

Starts at 10am tomorrow

Email me to arrange pick up.

Wednesday, June 2, 2010

2 Vancouver Island Baby Fair Tickets to Giveaway!

This weekend Abby Sprouts will be up in Nanaimo at the Vancouver Island Baby Fair Booth #28!!

On Saturday June 5th, I'll be giving a cloth diaper demo for everyone interested!

Here's the blurb from the Vancouver Island Baby Fair Website:
3:00pm - Modern cloth diapering: Benefits & myths plus simple guidelines to help you get started
Considering Cloth Diapers? Are you feeling overwhelmed? Stephanie will show you modern cloth diaper options (no pins!), how to use cloth, how to wash your diapers (it's easy!), and let you try cloth diapers out yourself. Learn answers to common questions, why more parents are choosing cloth, what you need to get started, and some helpful tips and tricks. Come and get the answers you need to make the right diaper choice for your family.

Our last pair of tickets needs be given away before Friday so hurry up and Enter!!

For your First Entry tell me what you are doing to tread a little lighter on the planet. It can be using cloth diapers, composting, going solar... A wise women told me it's all about being on the path to sustainability. So let's hear where you are on the path!

Tickets at the door are Cash only FYI but we will be accepting Visa and MasterCard as well as Cash at our booth #28!

Additional Entries:
Join Our Newsletter

Follow this Abby Sprouts Blog
Subscribe to the Abby Sprouts Blog 
Tweet this Giveaway Once per day

In order to keep the blog family friendly I moderate all comments so if there is a delay in seeing your comment posted it's just because I haven't checked it yet :)

Leave One Comment for your first mandatory entry and then one for Each Additional Entry!

See you at the Baby Fair this Weekend!

Good Luck!

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

Government St. Sunday Market in Victoria, BC *First One April 18*

We just found out last night we'll be participating the the Sunday Market from 11am to 4:30pm in downtown Victoria, BC on the 1600 block of Government St. between Pandora and Fisgard.

We're so excited! I had the pleasure of meeting a few of the other participants last night and I think it's going to be a fabulous mix of products and people.


Abby Sprouts will be there to give cloth diaper demos, sell everything that's in stock!, giving exclusive market sales and booking cloth diaper or Abby Sprouts Parties in Victoria or around Vancouver Island too.

Hint Hint: ALL Melissa and Doug Toys are going to be on sale!