HOW TO GO GREEN IN BED (Redbook)

• The Right Rubs: Opt for all-natural, paraben-free lubricants (parabens, used as preservatives, may disrupt hormone activity). And use organic massage oils, such as Earth Botanicals (northernnaturals.com, $11 for 8 oz), which is made of sunflower, apricot, and jojoba oils and contains no artificial fragrances or additives.
• Toss Toxic Toys: Many soft plastic sex toys are made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and softened with chemicals called phthalates. The problem: PVC’s manufacture is toxic to the environment, and there’s some evidence that exposure to phthalates can increase the risks of birth defects and cancer. Play it safe with toys made of silicone, glass, or metal instead.
• Bright Idea: Keep the lights off while you make love and focus fully on the sexy sensations of touch and sound. If you still want to see your sweetie, switch out your lightbulb for an Energy Star-qualified one (you’ll save cash, too!).
• Condom Sense: Roll out the lambskin condoms — the only kind proven to be biodegradable. (But stick with latex if you’re concerned about STD prevention, as lambskin condoms are only effective for birth control.)
• Mattress Matters: Get busy on sheets made from organic cotton (grown without pesticides or synthetic fertilizers), or pick bedding made from bamboo fiber, a rapidly renewable resource.
• Carbon Dating: Searching for Mr. Right? Check out greensingles.com to meet fellow tree huggers and help the planet while you look for love: Part of the site’s profits go to nonprofit environmental organizations.
• Good Vibrations: Using something that requires batteries? Replace it with something rechargable that doesnt use batteries at all.
• Human Friction: What’s hotter than body heat? Lower your home thermostat this winter and warm things up between the sheets instead.
• Green Under There: Get greener undies and still stay sexy. Slip into Lenpur lingerie — its surprisingly soft fabric is made from pine clippings.