Belgium Bans Baby Puzzle Mats

Belgium just announced that it will be banning the sale of all children's puzzle floor mats due to the toxic ingredients used to soften the foam. Formaldehyde and other noxious chemicals exist in most foam products (including the foam in our sofas, chairs and mattresses), however, these chemicals are especially dangerous when they are present in something babies often stick in their mouth.

Once again, Europe is ahead of the "green" curve.

A Stone that Cleans Toilets

I finally found a natural solution to those dark hard water stains in the toilet that no scrub brush on the planet can seem to attack. You know what I mean -- those hard to reach dark spots that look like rust (or leftover you-know-what). Came across this tip when I was looking through my well-warn copy of "Clean House Clean Planet" by Karen Logan. (The bible - by the way - for anyone wanting a "greener" clean at home.) She suggests using a pumice stone. Yes, that inexpensive stone most of us use on our calloused feet. Well, guess what, it gently rips those water spots off of porceline just as well. With a little water and elbow grease, it will disolve any hard water spot in your toilet bowl. Best part, it doesn't even scratch the bowl. HINT: Use gloves for this one -- and turn the water off on your toilet while trying to get to harder-to-reach areas.

LUSCIOUS DEAL-OF-THE-DAY: 15% off Natural Toys

LUSCIOUS DEAL-OF-THE-DAY: 15% off natural toys and gifts at RosieHippo.com

(Enter promo code RHMOTHERING15 at checkout)


Go ahead - make the commitment! This year let's fill our children's holidays with less plastic (or even go plastic-less altogether). With RosieHippo.com it's actually semi-affordable. RosieHippo.com is your one-stop shop for every natural gift need you can think of  (for newborn thru pre-teen). Think quality instead of quantity and you'll find yourself buying sturdy heirloom toys that will be played with for generations to come. I've searched the web (and local stores) high and low for the best prices when it comes to high-quality natural toys and Rosie Hippo just can't be beat. My girls love the fabric food items, wooden animals and wooden trucks and airplanes the best. They get played with every week - and they look beautiful on their bedroom shelves. Sign up for the RosieHippo.com e-newsletter -- and you'll receive frequent deals and discounts.

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