In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at why European baby formula are thought to be better than other brands, as well as review Holle’s specific formula. By the end of this post, you should have a good understanding of why many parents prefer European baby formulas and whether or not Holle baby formula is the right choice for your family.

_{This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure here.}

How we started with European baby formula

Baby W had a dramatic entry into the world and was only 4 pounds when he was born. Packing on weight for our underweight baby seemed like the sole purpose of my motherhood.

Being health-conscious parents ourselves, I wanted to give the best nutrition to my baby, more so to an underweight one. 

A family member introduced me to Holle, a European baby formula, and swore it is the best out there.  I diligently did my own research and what I found opened me to a completely different lens into the infant formula industry.

Here are the main reasons why European Baby formulas are superior to American ones.

Tighter regulation in Europe on baby formulas

The European Commission requires that infant formulas contain no detectable levels of pesticide residues.

This means that all European infant formula is organic.

There are also specific provisions on hygiene and the presence of contaminants that may be in contact with the infant formula.

Additionally, the European Union (EU) is much more conservative with additives in formulas than we do. These additives are banned in the EU that are often found in American formula: sucrose (sugar), carrageenan, taurine, L-Carnitine and L-Methionine, lutein, lycopene, nucleotides.

Below is the ingredients list from an American Pediatrician recommended infant formula brand. The highlighted ingredients are banned in the EU but yet present in this extremely popular infant formula!

Banned ingredients commonly found in American baby formula

Sucrose

Babies inherently crave for sweets because it is essential for their metabolic function. As such, breastmilk is naturally sweet. In order to make formula taste sweet, most American makers use sucrose in formulas so that babies will drink it. The problem here is that sucrose is plain table sugar.

Would you give sugar to your baby? I wouldn’t. 

Too much sugar causes obesity,  insulin resistance, diabetes, ADHD, and the list goes on.

You will not find sucrose in European formulas. Instead, to make their milk sweet, European formulas use maltodextrin and lactose which are healthier alternatives than sucrose.

Carrageenan

Carrageenan is a  “natural” ingredient derived from seaweeds. It is an increasingly common ingredient in many processed foods, as they act to thicken, emulsify and stabilize products. Some brands of nut milk, yogurt, and even Pediasure have it. Here is a list of foods that contain carrageenan if you’re interested.  It is also in a lot of American infant formula.  

Numerous studies have shown that carrageenan causes inflammation which leads to gastrointestinal disorders and even cancer! Regardless of the numerous studies, FDA still approves this additive in infant formula. However, EU has banned carrageenan for this use.

Taurine, L-Carnitine and L-Methionine, Lutein, Lycopene, Nucleotides

These synthetic ingredients are BANNED in the European Union in organic formulas. Most of these ingredients are healthy and needed in our body, BUT the source that these ingredients are coming from is not natural.

RELATED POST: 21 Brain-Boosting Developmental Activities For Infants (0-3 Months)

Why I made the switch to Holle baby formula

Holle is the very first European baby formula brand I tried with Baby #1 because of the praises from my mommy friends.

In fact, the company has been making baby formula since 1933.

I like Holle because it has different stages that are tailored nutrition.  

Each stage contains different key ingredients that are tailed for a baby’s needs. This is really important because the baby at different stages will require different needs for nutrients.

A newborn’s need for milk will be different from a baby who is also taking solids.

A baby at different stages will require different needs for nutrients

Holle baby formula review

Positives:

Biodynamic farms

Cows are raised on biodynamic farms that integrate all the living organisms within the system, including plants, livestock, and farmers.  Cows are fed on herbs and grass naturally fertilized by the maneuver. It’s just a circle of life. This means no pesticides or chemical fertilizers.

Cows are raised in a humane environment

Demeter farm standard: Cows on Demeter farms are raised in a uniquely humane and caring environment. For example, they don’t remove a cow’s horns which is a painful procedure for the animal. Besides being inhumane, horns are important for a cow’s digestion and metabolism.  In return, the milk produced contains more nutrients and good fatty acids. Happy cows produce happy milk

Completely organic

Demeter biodynamic processing standard also delivers the highest purity of agricultural ingredients. This means no genetically modified ingredients, artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. Oh, and this is the Demeter “stamp”.  When you see this logo on the box, it means that the product is produced under Demeter biodynamic standards. AKA highest standard organic quality!

Negatives

Pediatrician acceptance

Since Holle organic infant formula is not overseen by FDA standards, your pediatrician may not recommend formulas not produced in the US. You have no way of knowing if there will be a recall on the European baby formula because it isn’t regulated by US FDA.

Addition of palm oil

In order to mimic fatty acids found in breast milk, you’ll often see palm oil in the ingredients list. Holle organic infant formula is no exception.

This is a drawback because the palmitic acid from palm oil is not absorbed properly by the body. Research has shown that calcium and fat absorption is lower in babies given formula with palm oil.  

At first, I was hesitant about giving it a try due to the palm oil issue especially Baby W was very underweight. However, palm oil is not the only source of fat in the formula; it also contains Rapeseed oil and Sunflower oil. I’m also happy to report that Baby W is thriving with amazing weight gains so the palm oil in the milk has no effect on his health at all.

More expensive than American infant formula

Depending on the brand you are comparing, Holle infant formula can be $0.02 more per gram than American infant formula. This is why I always buy bulk to take advantage of more savings.

Get started with Holle baby formula today and save $5 OFF! with code SOCALMOMMY

Where to buy Holle baby formula?

Now that I’ve decided on Holle organic infant formula, how do I get on hands on them since they’re not sold in US stores?

There are tons of suppliers online, but it is important to get a GREAT supplier because we’re talking about our baby’s food here.  You don’t want to overpay and certainly not get an authentic product. Besides authenticity and reasonable prices, a great supplier to me is:

• ships directly from Europe
• astounding reviews
• has a variety of products
• free shipping
• good customer service

After days of searching, I decided to order from Organic Formula Shop.

BONUS: Get $5 off your order with code SOCALMOMMY!

Organic Formula Shop was founded by health-conscious parents like you and me. Their climate-controlled warehouse is based close to the European manufacturers. This means that all of their formulas are shipped straight from the Netherlands (aka expiration dates are way out in advance).

Another perk is that they offer FREE expedited shipping. I’m in California and I usually receive my orders within 3 days straight from Europe!

What is the price? Is it a good value?

Here is the current price per box for each stage.

• Holle Organic Baby Formula – Stage 1 (400g) – $25.99
• Holle Organic Baby Formula Stage 2 (600g) – $32.50
• Holle Organic Baby Formula – Stage 3 (600g) – $32.50

RELATED POST: HiPP Baby Formula Review – Everything You Need To Know

Final verdict on European baby formula

I wish that I could tell every parent that European baby formula means a safer option without the added synthetic chemicals found in its American counterpart. I truly think that we’ve found the perfect one for my underweight son.  My heart is assured that Baby W is getting the best organic formula!

Have you ever tried a European baby formula? Why or why not? Let me know by leaving a message below.

The post Why European Baby Formula Is Better + Holle Baby Formula Review (2023) appeared first on SoCal Mommy Life.

Hey there, new mama! Congratulations on your bundle of joy. Now that the baby is here, it’s time to start thinking about setting up their nursery.

If you’re looking for some super-cute ideas to decorate your newborn baby’s room, you’ve come to the right place! In this post, we’ll share a ton of adorable ways to make your little one’s space as special and unique as they are. Keep reading for all the details!

This post is all about newborn baby room decorating ideas

_{This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure here.}

1. Dreamy Baby Pink Nursery

Recreate this baby room idea:

This dreamy theme is just what you need to create a beautiful and inspiring nursery for your baby girl. The blush color instantly turns your baby’s room into a magical sanctuary. To recreate this dreamy newborn baby room, stick to using curtains with ruffles and heart-shaped decorative pillows as well as textured blankets for inspiration.

2. Light Blue Modern Farmhouse Nursery

Recreate this baby room idea:

He will be the most beautiful baby in this light blue modern farmhouse nursery. The wall shelf/bookcase is a clever way to add space vertically while giving the nursery an expensive look. The bold and cozy design of the shag gives the nursery a modern touch. Throw in some white and neutral-colored baskets and you’ve got yourself a perfect boy nursery!

3. Neutral Minimalist Changing Station

Recreate this baby room idea:

This neutral minimalist changing station is the perfect way to create an inviting space for your baby. If you’re expecting and don’t know the gender of your baby yet, stick with neutral tones. A mesh white basket with bamboo handles stores all baby essentials with style. Also, you can also decorate the wooden floating shelf with cute baby stuff or hang your baby’s cute outfits.

4. Pastel Rainbow Baby Room Decor Ideas

Recreate this baby room idea:

Over the past months, we’ve been seeing rainbow décor everywhere. It makes us feel good and inspiring – a perfect theme for nurseries. Instead of painting the rainbow, try these removable rainbow wallpapers that are super easy to apply. Decorate with some unicorn plush animals and beaded pendant light for a boho touch.

5. Brown and Blue Whale Nursery Theme

Recreate this baby room idea:

Want your newest addition to loving the open water as much as you do? Bring them home to a room that’s filled with whale nursery decor. Start with a gigantic whale wallpaper that fills up an entire wall. A crochet round rug complements the ocean waves and curves of the whales. Finally, add a whale night light as your baby’s guardian.

6. Blush And Pink Newborn Baby Room

Recreate this baby room idea:

The blush and pink colors in this newborn baby room are so dreamy and gorgeous! I absolutely love the boho macrame decorations, they add such a beautiful touch. The color scheme complements any white crib and is perfect for any girl nursery.

7. Wall Pegboard Newborn Baby Room Decor

Recreate this baby room idea:

Pegboards are an amazing way to organize all those cute little things for your baby. You can install pegboard anywhere in your baby’s room, but the best place to put these is on top of the changing station. Make the pegboard wall even more functional by adding a stylish organizer with a mirror. Also, you can also add a shelf and hang your baby’s clothes while getting them dressed.

8. Modern Yellow Nursery

Recreate this baby room idea:

This bright and modern nursery is perfect for a baby’s first memories. To create the look, add in a yellow chunky knit blanket to give it that sunny feel along with wooden shelves where you can display all those picture books.

9. Monochrome Safari Nursery Theme

The perfect atmosphere for those who are planning on sharing a room with the baby! This monochrome safari theme will keep things muted while adding some animal designs to make the space fun. Start off by placing the black and wood crib next to the wall in your room and decorate the wall with some animal wall decors. The wicker bell pendant lamp keeps the space muted while adding a touch of safari to the room.

10. Boy Nursery For Small Spaces

Recreate this baby room idea:

Wall decals are an easy and affordable way to add color or texture to any room. We love this cherry blossom tree because not only does it add some much-needed color, but also creates an illusion that makes the space feel bigger than what’s actually there!

11. Cozy Farmhouse Nursery Decorating Ideas

Recreate this baby room idea:

You can spruce up your baby’s nursery with this cozy farmhouse theme. Change (or play) with your baby in this organic seagrass basket. Complement this super cute changing basket with a macrame wall decor and a gold hanging mirror to complete the look. 

12. Blue Fairytale Baby Room Decorating Idea

Recreate this baby room idea:

Transform your baby’s room into a fairytale with a blue color palette and some eye-catching details. A must-have for this look is the princess dome canopy for the crib. Place some star-shaped area rugs and complete the look with a mountain mural wallpaper.

13. Bright Transitional Baby Room Idea

Recreate this baby room idea:

A bright and breezy baby room can be created using the newest trends in interior design.
The key to creating this type of space is eliminating any elements that may feel outdated or traditional, while still providing an overall cozy feeling for your little one’s nursery. This includes going with white furniture, such as this stylish children’s storage unit, with a bright pastel accent chair and a cozy knitted ottoman.

14. Boho Neutral Baby Room

Recreate this baby room idea:

The boho-neutral baby room theme is all about the texture. It’s soft, romantic and feminine with a hint of rustic for good measure. If you want to give your baby’s room a bohemian vibe, place an open teepee in their nursery. You can decorate it with tassels and a macrame rainbow (these are so popular now!) for that extra touch of style. Oh, and don’t forget about the macrame dream catcher wall decor in the background.

15. Sweet Safari Baby Room Decorating Ideas

Recreate this baby room idea:

With these baby decorating ideas for safari themes you can create the perfect nursery with fun safari animals and green vines. First, please a round gold mirror on top of the changing station and wrap it around with a faux eucalyptus garland. Complement the gold mirror with a wicker storage tower. Finally, hang some sweet safari animals wall decor to complete the look!

16. Pink Floral Newborn Baby Room Decor

Recreate this baby room idea:

The sweet pink colors in this room are perfect for any new baby girl. The floral pattern on the wall makes it feel like you’re walking into an paradise, and with all of these soft pastel tones throughout – there won’t be much time where she’ll want anything else.

17. Pink And Grey Baby Room Decor Ideas

Recreate this baby room idea:

Pink and grey is a great color combination for an elegant baby girl room. To recreate this look, start with grey furniture such as a grey crib and grey nursing chair. Add some soft feminine elements with a pink floral toss pillow and ruffle crib skirts.

18. Modern French Country Nursery

Recreate this baby room idea:

Modern French country theme is all about soft, rustic and elegant. Recreate this look with a light colored breastfeeding chair. Add a light blue blanket with ruffles and a candle-style chandelier as a final touch.

There are lots of fun and stylish ways to decorate your newborn’s room. So whether you’re just starting to think about what you want or have already started putting things together, be sure to take a look at these ideas for some inspiration. And don’t forget to leave me a comment below and let me know which one is your favorite!

This post was all about newborn baby room decorating ideas.

Newborn Baby Room Decorating Ideas Related Posts:

• 21 Brain-Boosting Developmental Activities For Infants (0-3 Months)
• Best Infant Toys We’ve Ever Found Online
• Best Non-Toxic Baby Crawling Mat Every Mom Swears By

The post Super-Cute Newborn Baby Room Decorating Ideas appeared first on SoCal Mommy Life.

The cool thing about this DIY tutorial is that you can customize the images. You can use this tutorial to print anything you wish on your onesies, no Cricut or special tools are needed!

_{This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure here.}

Here is a step-by-step tutorial on how to make milestone onesies

Things you’ll need for your DIY baby milestone onesies:

• Baby onesie or bodysuit
• Freezer Paper – make sure it’s the kind with wax on one side
• Non-toxic fabric marker – fine tip works best!
• X-Acto knife or craft knife
• Iron & ironing board
• Printer & printer paper
• Scissors
• Cutting board

Step 1: Create milestone images

Type out each milestone in MS Word. You can play around with font and size. Be creative with adding figures too. For my onesies, I found some cute little arrows online and pasted onto my milestone template.

Since you will be placing freezer paper on top of your designs, print your images in black. Depending on how small or large you want for the images, you can fit 6 milestones in a standard 8″ x 11″ paper. 

Step 2: Create freezer paper stencils

With the wax side of the freezer paper facing down, tape the portion of the freezer paper you want to cut on top of your printed milestone design. This will help secure the freezer paper when you cut it.

Using an X-Acto knife or craft knife, carefully cut out the images underneath. You just made your freezer paper stencil!

Step 3: Place freezer paper stencil in the center of the onesie

Step 4: Transfer stencil onto the onesie

Once you’ve aligned the stencil, iron it with high heat. The heat will adhere to the wax of the freezer paper onto the white onesie.

Step 5: Color in stencil gaps

Now, this is the fun part! Pick out the fabric marker and fill in the stencil gaps. Try to apply as many pigments as possible to the fabric.

Step 6: Final touch-up on your perfect milestone onesie

Peel off the stencil. Carefully draw in gaps and outline the images if needed.

So here it is! Baby milestone onesie in 10 minutes!!

Have fun DIY-ing…

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The post Easy DIY Milestones Onesies appeared first on SoCal Mommy Life.