Are towelling nappies really that difficult to use? Where can you find ethical products? Why should you avoid plastic? Is it safe to buy second-hand?

With a huge number of products to choose from and decisions to make, how do you create a healthy environment which will give your baby the best start in life - and give the planet a chance. Eco Baby shows parents how to make the most ethical decisions about the products they buy and the way they live as new parents, as well as showing them an easy route to greening their baby's life.

The author looks at every aspect of a new baby's life in the first year, including:

• Baby gear - Eco-friendly advice from cot to car seat
• Nappies - One of the biggest topics of debate recently: what are the pros and cons of disposable versus washable nappies, and their effect on our environment
• Decorating the nursery - Besides raising concerns about the planet, paints, varnishes and furnishing materials may have an impact on your child's health too
• Clothing - Do you want to find clothing from organic sources that are nonallergenic and free from chemicals?
• Food - The benefits and advantages of breast feeding, a guide to formula milks, dairy intolerances, natural alternatives to formula milks and options for organic meals
• Toiletries - Some of our most famous toiletry brands, even those aimed at babies, contain artificial ingredients, fragrances and colours that raise health concerns
• Toys and educational items - You can make your child's toy box more ethical by choosing wisely from sustainably managed materials and fairly traded products.

Packed with helpful tips, and with a comprehensive index of companies, products and services, Eco Baby is an essential guide for all parents concerned about the health of their baby and the world their children will inherit.

About the author

Sally J Hall was Consumer Editor of Pregnancy & Birth magazine for four years and has written for all the major baby magazines; she also ran a baby shop in London before returning to journalism. She is a regular contributor to The Independent, writing for its consumer section on baby and child care, green and environmental issues; she also writes for The Express, Daily Mail and New Consumer. She lives in North London with her family.

Eco Baby: A Green Guide to Parenting by Sally J Hall