Natural and sustainable gifts
for babies and toddlers

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With Christmas fast approaching it's time for the annual Nannycare Christmas Gift guide. This year we want to spotlight eco, fair trade, and sustainable brands. Who better then to help us than our favourite interior designer, stylist and photographer Nancy Straughan. With gifts to find for her daughter and a passion for natural and sustainable toys, we couldn't think of anyone better to ask. Over to you, Nancy...

Keeping things simple

We probably all have too much “stuff” and the pressure to have everything brand-new and perfect each Christmas can add a lot of pressure. Focusing on what matters most to us can really help alleviate those difficult feelings and the same can be said for buying gifts. Perhaps this year is a good year to be very mindful with regards to present shopping. Children and babies can easily end up with piles of toys that never get used which can add clutter and stress to our homes.

One well chosen gift

That's why in this gift guide we are highlighting a handful of our favourite sustainable brands so you can shop cleverly this year. One well chosen gift usually means so much more than lots of things bought in a hurry. So we really hope you enjoy shopping more sustainably this year whilst also  keeping things small and simple. 

Nancy x

Pure Earth Play Mats

Pure Earth makes non-toxic play mats which are made from trees not plastic. They are made from natural materials which encourage play but also look very stylish. Made only from natural rubber and cork the mats are shock absorbent, antibacterial, easy to clean, naturally non-slip and super light and transportable.  

Roomate soft toys

Fairtrade and made from 100% organic cotton, Roomate soft toys are suitable from birth and also look incredibly stylish - thanks to their cool designs they would be a perfect addition to a Scandinavian style nursery. Definitely a toy that both baby and parents can enjoy.

Toddlers playing on Pure Ears Collection mat
Image credit: Pure Earth Play Mats
Image credit: Roomate Soft Toys


Mama Owl Clothing 

Mama Owl stock a range of beautifully designed, natural and organic clothing from newborn to 8yrs+ but they also source beautifully handcrafted toys and books that encourage exploring outdoors. They have a lovely selection of hard to find Christmas books that will be treasured forever.  

Whirli Toy Subscription

Whirli is a subscription service that allows you to borrow toys for as long as you want. You simply choose one of their plans, use their tokens, and  then select the toys you would like to have sent to you at home, including newest must haves. The toys are yours to play with her as long as you want with no time limits .

Image credit: Lanka kade
Image credit: Mama Owl


Lanka kade Toys

Lanka kade offer affordable fair trade toys for those of us who need to be mindful of our spending. Lanka Kade comply with the internationally accepted 10 Principles of Fair Trade and support their makers growth and development. Lanka Kade make a huge selection of toys and games which are fun, child friendly and well made.

We hope that our selection of eco gift ideas has inspired your shopping this year. 

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas, from everyone at Nannycare x

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About the Author

Nancy Straughan a is stylist, and interior photographer in Newcastle upon Tyne where she lives with her husband and daughter. Follow Nancy and her gorgeous photography at @nancy_straughan.