A: Rebecca’s Answer: It is very easy to be frightened by the constant barrage of "dangerous" chemical reports. With regard to shampoos and lotions, I would exercise the most caution with lotions that are actually absorbed into a child's skin. Most conventional products contain chemicals from a class known as "phthalates" (pronounced thal (rhymes with pal)- eights ). Scientists are discovering these chemicals can act as endocrine disruptors, or hormone mimics. They act like hormones in the body and can bind to hormone receptors in cells. Exposure is of particular concern for fetuses, babies, and young children. Usually they hide on the ingredient list under the blanket name "fragrance". It is safest to choose products with all-natural ingredients that are scented with essential oils.

As for packaging, those pesky phthalates keep showing up, particularly as plasticizers (chemicals that make plastics soft and pliable) in containers made from vinyl (aka, PVC, #3 plastics). Other chemicals, such as styrene, can leach from polystyrene packaging (#6). When choosing products, avoid those packaged in #3 and #6. All plastics have environmental "issues", but the least of the evils are those labeled #1, #2, (both polyethylenes) and #5 (polypropylene). Choose them, and then recycle the packaging! #1 and #2 are commonly accepted for recycling. #5 is recycled also, but not as often as #1 and #2.

Finally, try not to panic! Make the best choices you can with the options available to you. Chemical exposure from food is as important, if not more so, than exposure from shampoos and lotion. Therefore, choosing organic food whenever possible can help reduce exposure to pesticides and other chemicals. Storing food in glass or ceramic containers instead of plastic and not microwaving in plastic are also great ways to reduce contact with certain chemicals. Do the best you can, and try to avoid stressing over things you can't control.

A: Rebecca’s Answer: A: Bisphenol-A (or BPA) has been found to leach from plastic bottles made from polycarbonate. This is the hard plastic commonly seen in sport bottles (Nalgene bottles), baby bottles, and sippy cups. If the bottle is coded with the standard symbol, a number inside the chasing arrows recycling symbol, polycarbonate bottles are labeled as #7 ("other"). Category #7 encompasses various types of plastics, some which are actually eco-friendly (bio-based compostable plastic picnic ware is also labeled #7). If possible, use bottles made from glass, or those coded #1, #2, #4 or #5. Avoid containers labeled #3, #6, and #7 or those that have no number at all.

Heat exacerbates the dangers of BPA. Far more BPA leaches into bottles holding hot liquids than those holding cold liquids. Never microwave plastic bottles!!! If you must put a warm liquid, like baby formula, into a bottle, heat it separately, then fill the bottle. Avoid storing liquids in plastic polycarbonate bottles if possible.

The issue of washing polycarbonate bottles is relevant too. Dishwashers produce high heat that may cause BPA to leach. On the other hand, washing by hand does not sterilize bottles. If you must use polycarbonate bottles, use your best judgment about washing. If your baby has a compromised immune system and sterility is critical, the dishwasher may be a better option. On the other hand, if your baby is healthy, you may decide to avoid additional BPA risk and wash bottles by hand in warm water only. Use your judgment.

It is impossible to avoid completely all types of plastic in today's society. Even so, educate yourself and err on the side of caution. Avoid the worst offenders, and support manufacturers who offer healthier choices.