Deciding on where your baby sleeps can have a huge impact on your family. Whether you choose to co-sleep by bed sharing or room sharing one aspect is vital – safety. Like all parents, you’ll want to make sure your baby is safe as they sleep. Baby co-sleepers allow you to sleep side by side whilst giving your little bundle the safety of their own space.

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When you don’t know where to start the choice of co-sleepers can be overwhelming. The trick is knowing what features you need to focus on to find the best co-sleeper for your family. We’ve created this guide for parents, like you, who want to make a great choice when buying a co-sleeper.

If you’re in a hurry, then these are the topics we’ll discuss:

• Co-sleeper Comparison Chart
• 6 Best Co-Sleeper Reviews
• Pros and Cons of Co-Sleepers
• Recommendations for
• Buying Guide
• Safe Co Sleeping

Let’s get started by comparing what’s available on the market.

Baby Co-Sleeper Comparison Chart

Co-Sleeper	Model	Type	Age Range	Nightlight	Price	Rating
	Baby Delight Snuggle Nest Harmony	Bed Sharing	0-4m	Yes	$	4.0 Stars
	DockATot	Bed Sharing	0-9m	No	$$$	4.5 Stars
	HALO Bassinest	Side Sleeper	0-5m	Yes	$$$	4.1 Stars
	SwaddleMe By Your Side Sleeper	Bed Sharing	0-5m	No	$	4.2 Stars
	Arm's Reach Concepts Clear Vue	Side Sleeper	0-5m	No	$$	4.4 Stars
	Summer Infant by Your Side Sleeper	Bed Sharing	0-5m	No	$$	4.4 Stars
	Babybay	Side Sleeper	0-6m	No	$$$$	4.5 Stars
	Chicco Next to me	Side Sleeper	0-9m	No	$$$$	5.0 Stars

6 Best Co Sleeper Reviews

The following co-sleepers are the ones we rated best. The right one for you will depend on your personal preference. It’s best to choose the co-sleeper which offers most benefits for you and your baby. There are great options available for all budgets.

Baby Delight Snuggle Nest Harmony

• Type: Bed Sharing
• Age Range: 0- 4 months
• Colors: Cream

Pros: Affordable, good size, lightweight, nightlight, sturdy

Cons: Short length, non-adjustable foot rest

Our Verdict

The Baby Delight Snuggle Nest Harmony is the bestselling co-sleeper on the market. It’s a popular choice if you want baby to sleep in the bed with you. You can also use it around the house or for traveling. For the peace of mind, convenience and portability, it’s worth the price even for the short-term use.

Safety – It’s designed with a structured head rest which gives you and baby a protected sleep space. So no worrying if baby rolls near you, or you rolling onto baby. The foot rest also prevents baby from slipping down the bed and under blankets. Although many parents report this can be quite restrictive as baby grows.

Ease of Use – The bottom half has a soft mesh side to make it easier to feed or sooth baby during the night. If you are formula feeding, keep your equipment at your bedside. This way, you won’t even need to leave the bed. There is a built in nightlight which is gentle enough for sleepy eyes to use in the wee hours of the night.

Bedding – This co sleeper comes with an in build mattress and cover. It’s waterproof so can be easily wiped down. If there are any ‘explosive’ incidents, you can remove the cover and machine wash.

Portable – You can fold this co-sleeper in half and carry with the in-built handle. This makes is easier to use around the house for nap-time, babysitting at relatives or even traveling with your new-born.

Best for – We would recommend this co-sleeper for those with a kind size bed. It would still fit a queen size, but if you or your partner are on the larger side, you will struggle for space.

DockATot

• Type: Bed Sharing
• Age Range: 0-8 months (larger size available for 9m-3years)
• Colors: 7 Fabrics

Pros: Soft fabric, breathable, portable, good size

Cons: Expensive

Our Verdict

The DockATot is the best and safest bed sharing co-sleeper. It gives your baby the security of a swaddled environment which helps them to sleep better. This co-sleeper comes highly recommend from parents who use it. Yes, it’s expensive, but it’s a great investment, and you get a lot longer use than other co-sleepers on the market.

Comfort – This co-sleeper has a raised bumper design that keeps baby snug inside. The material is soft and breathable, which makes it safe and easy to use for bed-sharing. As baby grows you can unclip the end so their legs can stretch.

Ease of Use – If you are breastfeeding the DockaTot is a lifesaver. You can position yourself on top of the soft raised edge, you won’t even need to move baby for a feed. It’s also great for transitioning baby to their own bed, so they don’t feel so alone.

Cleaning – The cover for the DockATot is completely removable. You can machine wash but it’s recommend to air dry to prevent shrinkage. The bumper pad need airing only. If your baby needs frequent night changes it’s recommend you put a muslin square on the mat to prolong the cover use. You can buy different covers to switch up the style or to use between washes.

Portable – This co-sleeper has handles attached to the cover for easy transport. It’s lightweight, soft and simple to store. When traveling it can be handy to use on the beach or by the pool.

Best for – We would recommend this co-sleeper for breastfeeding moms and long term bed sharers. If you have twins, the deluxe size is suitable for bed sharing with both when they are newborn.

Arm’s Reach Concepts Clear Vue

• Type: Side Sleeper
• Age Range: 0-5 months
• Colors: Cocoa or natural

Pros: Affordable, multi-use, breathable mesh sides, on wheels, compact

Cons: Doesn’t fold

Our Verdict

The Arms Reach Clear Vue is a great all-rounder. Not only can you use it as a co-sleeper but also a regular bassinet and storage unit. The Arms Reach side sleeper range is the most popular in the USA. They allow you to sleep next to baby without the discomfort and safety risks of bed sharing.

Safety

This co-sleeper comes with an anchor plate to make the bassinet flush with your bed. This model also has extendable legs to adjust it to the same height as your mattress. The legs are on wheels; however, they all lock for stability. Mesh panels are used on all four sides so baby can breathe if the push up against the edge. This also makes it easier for you to see baby from any angle.

Ease of Use

The best thing about this co-sleeper is the convenience. You can use it as a co-sleeper or switch to a freestanding bassinet if you feel the set-up isn’t working for your family. There is no disruption to the whole bed when baby wakes. Just lean over to tend to them or easily pull baby into the bed with you for a feed. When baby goes back you both have your own space to sleep side by side. You can even keep feeding or diapering equipment in the handy storage basket for easy access during the night.

Bedding

The co-sleeper comes with an inbuilt mattress that attaches to the base with velco. A fitted sheet is also included; however, you will need to purchase more for change supplies. The mattress is waterproof, and the sheets can be machine washed for quickness.

Moveable

A big downside of this co-sleeper id the lack of portability. You can move it from room to room as the legs have wheels. It’s if you want a bassinet that allows baby daytime naps in the living room and then co-sleep in the bedroom at night.

Best for

We would highly recommend this co-sleeper for those who need a space-saving option. It can be moved around the house so no need for extra bassinets in each area. It’s fairly compact compared to other models and won’t take up too much floor space. We highly recommend it if you have a C-section. The dropped side and storage basket means minimal bending for your sore abdomen when tending to baby at night.

HALO Bassinest

• Type: Side Sleeper
• Age Range: 0-5 months
• Colors: Grey circles or damask

Pros: Adjustable height, mesh edges, stable, nightlight, full rotation

Cons: Price, not portable

Our Verdict

The HALO Bassinest is the perfect option if you want a co-sleeper which rates highly for safety and convenience.  This model offers the benefits of a bed sharing co-sleeper without taking up space in your bed. It’s a great modern option with a basic model and premier range for music, vibration and nightlight features.

Ease of Use – The unique feature of this co-sleeper is the spring-loaded side that lowers when you lean on it. This gives you easy access to baby simply with the weight of your arms. With a 360⁰ swivel you can bring baby closer to you or push away to get out of bed. The sound and vibration will help you soothe baby back to sleep. The nightlight is handy for giving you a bit more visibility when tending to baby during the night.

Safety – It’s the safest room sharing co-sleeper on the market. The lowering side gives you easy access to baby without the worry of baby slipping between the mattresses. The base is very sturdy and can be adjusted to your mattress height. It comes with a side lock to prevent you accidentally pushing down the side as you sleep.

Bedding – The Bassinest comes with a waterproof mattress and a fitted sheet. The mattress is wipe clean, and the sheets are machine washable. You can also buy more separately for using between washes.

Best for – We recommend this bed for moms who have had a C-section. You have space for baby with ultimate control for mom. It is really easy to maneuver about. This means less pain for you whilst you tend to baby. It’s also great for tall beds as it expands right up to a 34” height.

SwaddleMe By Your Side Sleeper

• Type: Bed Sharing
• Age Range: 0-5 months
• Colors: White

Pros: Good Price, Sturdy sides, portable, long length, mesh sides

Cons: Large, noisy plastic mattress

Our Verdict

The Swaddle Me By Your Side Co-sleeper is like a mini bassinet you place in your bed. It’s a really affordable option and gives parents peace of mind by having a clear view of baby. It’s not the easiest co-sleeper for access. However, it prevents parents from rolling onto baby when sleeping in the middle.

Safety – The metal frame of this co-sleeper is great for preventing rolling onto baby. Unfortunately, it makes it a little uncomfortable for parents if room is tight. The mesh side allows baby to breathe should they roll into the sides. You’ll also be able to see baby without sitting up.

Ease of Use – This co-sleeper doesn’t score too highly for access to baby. You will need to sit upright if you want to remove baby for a feed. Therefore, we wouldn’t recommend it for moms who had a C-section and not as convenient as other models for breastfeeding.

Bedding – This co-sleeper comes with a waterproof mattress and removable sheet. The mattress has a plastic feel to it which some find quite noisy. The fabric makes it easy to wipe clean. You can machine wash the sheets and buy replacements for a very affordable price.

Portability – This co-sleeper is extremely portable and lightweight to move around. It’s collapsible so easy to store. We love it as a space-saving solution for baby naps in other areas of the house.

Best for – We recommend this co-sleeper for parents who have a lot of space in the bed. It’s a perfect option for bed sharing without the risk of suffocating baby.

Babybay

• Type:  Side Sleeper
• Age Range: 0-6 months
• Colors: 4 wooden finishes

Pros: Adjustable height, sturdy, easy assembly, suitable for twins

Cons: Expensive

Our Verdict

The BabyBay is the best luxury co-sleeper on the market. The brand is new to the USA but a bestseller in Europe. It’s a very stylish option that gives a classic crib look rather than a metal frame.

Safety – The Babybay is the sturdiest co-sleeper on our list. The frame allows you to fix the dropped side to your bed frame with straps to keep it flush. The mattress height can be adjusted making it level with your mattress. There is also the option of a removable barrier if you want to be extra cautious about baby rolling between mattresses.

Ease of Use – This co-sleeper takes about 15 minutes to set up. Without the barrier, it is the perfect solution for breastfeeding moms. Pull baby over for a feed, then slide them back when you are done. It can be used as a freestanding crib in other rooms, but you’ll need an additional bed rail. The wheels make it easier for you to move around the house.

Bedding – The Babybay doesn’t come with a mattress provided, however, there are 4 options to choose from. The curved shape means you can’t use a generic brand. Separate machine washable sheets are also available.

Modular –Although not available for the US market yet there are accessories, which help you convert the baby bay into many different forms. This includes a playpen, highchair, child’s bench, desk and chair and freestanding crib. You may be able to have these item shipped over from Europe.

Best for – We highly recommend investing in the baby bay if you plan to have more children. It’s a sturdy piece of equipment and will see you through many years of use. The spacious design also makes it suitable to use for newborn twins.

Types of Baby Co-Sleeper

Bed Sharing Co-sleeper

This style of co-sleeper is designed for bed sharing with your baby. The idea is to eliminate the risk of parents rolling onto baby whilst you sleep. These co-sleepers allow baby to have their own space in the bed with raised side to prevent the parents of baby rolling. Bed sharing co sleepers come in two forms:

Framed – The co-sleeper has a fixed area with a framed support. This offer stability and is uncomfortable for parents if they roll into it. They make it easier to alert parents when they are too close to baby at night. They require a lot of space in the bed.

Contoured – This type is like a large pillow which contours around baby. The raised edges protect baby. They are very easy for breastfeeding moms to use. Although more expensive, this type often has a longer usage than fixed shape co-sleepers.

Side Sleeper

This type of co-sleeper is for parents who want baby to share the bed but with their own area off to the side. These offer easy access to baby without the risk of suffocation or overheating that comes with bed sharing. Modern side sleepers are available in two types:

Three sided – These look just like a regular bassinet or crib but with three sides. You attach the missing side to your mattress. This makes the co-sleeper your babies sleep area part of your bed. It’s essential the co-sleeper is securely attached, and any gaps between mattresses minimized.

Flexible Bassinet – This type is effectively a standalone bassinet that gives you easy access to baby. A regular bassinet requires you to sit up to tend to baby. The flexible sides of this type give the benefits of easy access whilst providing a safe barrier as you both sleep.

Benefits of  a Co-Sleeper

Safe Space

The biggest risk of co-sleeping with a baby is the risk of suffocation. This may be for parents rolling or being stuck between, blanket, wall or headboards. A co-sleeper gives baby their own safe space so parents don’t need to make too many adjustments to their bed.

Aids Breastfeeding

Having your baby right next to you gives you easy access for night feeds. It also makes you more responsive to their feeding cues. Feeding a baby during the night is a great way to boost your milk supply as your lactation hormones are highest in the early hours of the morning.

Soothe Baby

Modern co-sleepers have extra soothing features such as white noise, music or vibration modes. These can help baby fall asleep easier and ease the pressure on you to calm them.

Convenience

You’ll get a lot more sleep as you won’t need to full wake so often. Having baby beside you makes for easier feeding and nappy changes. Some models make it so easy you don’t even need to fully wake to comfort or feed baby. Small storage areas and nightlights mean less disruption or searching about during the night which can cause unnecessary disruptions to your partner.

Happy Dads

Most dad love the idea of sleeping but are petrified they might roll onto baby. Moms are more intuitive about sleeping with baby. Bed-sharing co-sleepers are particularly reassuring for dads to ease their worries. If your partner isn’t keen on bed-sharing, you can always compromise by opting for a side sleeper.

Save the Mattress

If you’ve ever changed a baby’s nappy, you will know they can sometime be, well…. explosive. A co-sleeper is a great way to minimize the damage to your mattress from unexpected pee and poo leaks. At the very least, it can cut down on your washing load, by changing tiny sheets rather than king-sized sheets.

Disadvantages of a Co-sleeper

Short Term Use

Most co-sleepers are recommended to use only for a few months. Usually, this is when baby can roll over themselves. You may not want to make a huge investment in a co-sleeper for such a short period of use. Even so, having a co-sleeper can reduce the risks of SIDS which is higher in babies under 14 weeks.

Unsuitable Bed

You may find that it’s difficult to find a co-sleeper for your bed. Bed sharing option often takes up a lot of space and can be uncomfortable unless you have a king-size bed. Consider the frame of your bed when buying a side sleeper as each model has different attachment style. Some will only be suitable for framed beds and not divan styles.

Baby Preference

Just like adults babies have their sleeping preferences. This means that some babies might not like the co-sleeper that you choose for them. If your baby likes to be swaddled to sleep, then you shouldn’t bed share with them. Some babies, especially when breastfeeding, won’t settle unless they are snuggled beside mom.

Best Co-sleeper for …

Let’s look into the types of co-sleeper which will offer most benefit for your family’s lifestyle.

C-Sections

A co-sleeper which requires minimal movement for mum is best. This means less maneuvering of your tender abdomen. Most side sleepers are suitable for moms with a C-section wound. For bed sharing, you should opt for one with soft side rather than a fixed frame.

Breastfeeding

For breastfeeding you want a co-sleeper which offers easy access to baby. A side sleeper or soft bed sharer is the best option. These help to position baby at the breast without too much movement. You also won’t need to fully wake for a feed, which mean you can still snooze whilst baby feeds.

 Twins

A spacious co-sleeper can be used for newborn twins to sleep together. The DockATot, Arms Reach range and BabyBay are all suitable for twin use. Newborn twins are often lower in birth weight than singletons. As your twins grow and take up more room, you’ll need to buy an additional co-sleeper or transition to a different sleep area for safety.

Baby Co- Sleeper Buying Guide

Let’s start by looking at all the features you should consider to find the best baby co-sleeper for your family.

Age Range

• Newborn – Most co-sleepers are suitable for newborn babies until they are a few months old. This puts a short shelf life on these products so you may not want to invest too much for such short use.

• Older Baby/ Toddler – Some co-sleepers can be used for longer periods; however, they are often more expensive. Usually, they can be adapted for other uses as baby grows, such as playpens or tummy time supports.

Usage

• Frequent – If you plan to use your co-sleeper regularly, including nap time you want one which lasts. Invest in a high quality co-sleeper which you can use around the house or even travel with.

• Occasional – A co-sleeper which is only used for visiting or traveling purposes doesn’t need too much investment. Opt for one which is lightweight, portable and easy to assemble.

Cost

• New – Co-sleepers can range from $40-$500 depending on which features you want. A safe sleep space for baby is the most important feature over looks or modern gadgets.

• Second Hand – Buying a used co-sleeper can get you a higher spec for your budget. It’s important to make sure the co-sleeper has not been recalled by the manufacturer. If you are unsure do a quick internet search before buying. Check for any structural faults, which can make it unsafe for baby. We would highly recommend buying a new mattress for your baby.

Safety

This is hands down the most important feature of any co-sleeper. You should never compromise your baby’s safety for price or fancy gadgets. It can lead to serious injury for your baby.

All bedside sleepers need to conform to ASTM Safety Standards (available here).

• Structure – The Co-sleeper needs to offer baby a structured side which prevents movement onto baby. Side sleepers require a structure between the bassinet and adult mattress to prevent baby slipping between the surfaces. The base should be sturdy and secured to the bed frame.

• Flat surface – All co-sleeper should provide a flat and firm surface for baby to sleep on. This will allow your baby to have a neutral neck position which does not restrict their breathing. Soft structure co-sleeper should only be used on a flat, firm surface to support baby.

• Sides – They should be designed to allow airflow to baby. This prevents baby from suffocating should they press themselves against the sides. Modern co-sleepers have sides made from mesh or stats if there is a structures frame sides.

• Locks – Flexible or movable co-sleepers should have safety locks to prevent accidental movement. Pets and other children are curious and can put your baby at risk if safety locks are not utilized.

Ease of Use

Picture yourself during the middle of the night, sleep deprived and tender after birth. Do the features of the co-sleeper make life easier for you or offer no benefit?

• Set Up – How easy is the co-sleeper to set up to use. Some styles may need to be adjusted as baby grows, consider if you’ll need extra tools to do this.

• Size – This is important for bed sharing co-sleepers. Most of them are quite bulky to allow baby enough space. For those with queen-sized beds you may struggle with room to sleep if either parent is on the larger side. For side sleepers, consider how much room you have available at the side of the bed. Will it be easy for you to get in and out of the bed without too much maneuvering?

• Storage – you may occasionally need to store the co-sleeper when not in use. Look for a folding style which will save space.

• Portability – Bed sharing co-sleepers are the most portable option. These are even suitable for using out of the house such as when traveling, visiting or on day trips.  The arms reach side crib range have a few styles which are portable. A lot of modern side sleepers have wheels so you can use them as a free-standing bassinet around the house.

Comfort

Just like your own bed you should try to make your baby’s sleep environment as comfortable as possible.

• Mattress – A firm mattress will provide a good sleeping position for baby. Some mattresses are made from a waterproof material which can make them a bit noisy when baby moves around.
• Position – Some co-sleepers can offer a slight incline to ease the discomfort of reflux of colic. We do not recommend using this position unless you can fully supervise your baby. It puts baby at great risk of slipping down and under blankets.

• Space – This is a case of personal preference for your baby. Your baby may prefer a snug space to which reminds them of your womb. As your baby grows will probably like to move around more and hate to be restricted. If they are unable the stretch and kick, your baby will be uncomfortable when they get larger. You may want to opt for a sleeper with adjustable length to get as much use as possible.

Cleaning

Diaper changes, spit up or just general use mean that you’ll need a way of keeping your co-sleeper clean. This is what you should look for to make the process easier.

• Material – Mattresses should at least be wipeable, and some should be regularly aired to prolong the use. Non-removable fabrics should be wipeable to freshen the co-sleeper during washes.

• Machine washable – Removable sheet should be machine washable and dried. This helps to speed up the washing and keeps the crib fresh and clean.

Baby Co-Sleeper Safety Advice

When co-sleeping you need to provide a safe environment to reduce any risks to baby. Always adopt this safety advice when co-sleeping with your baby.

Never leave baby unsupervised

Always supervise your baby whilst they sleep. Regardless of where there are sleeping, babies are at greater risk of SIDS if left unsupervised whilst sleeping. You will be able to tend to baby’s needs quickly should they become distressed.

Smoking and Medication

If you or your partner is a smoker, it is best that you do not use a co-sleeper for your baby. Your baby will benefit more for sleeping in a freestanding bassinet in your room. This is due to the risk of second-hand smoke increasing your baby’s risk of SIDS.

Check the temperature

Your baby is at great risk of SIDS if the room is too hot. Ensure that room temperature is between 60.8-68⁰F. If you feel baby is too cold, add a layer of blankets. If you think baby is too hot remove layers of blankets or extra clothing such as cardigans.

Remove Excess bedding

Extra bedding such as pillow, blankets or big fully duvets put baby at great risk of suffocation. Your baby can become entrapped in these areas, and their airflow restricted. Remember to remove any toys from babies sleeping area when they are in it.

Use a firm surface

Your co-sleeper should always provide a firm, flat surface for babies to sleep. Poor neck control makes it easy to position a baby with their chin to their chest. As a result their airflow is restricted. Never use a bed sharing sleeper on a waterbed.

Place baby on back

Always place your baby on their back to sleep. Statistics have shown a 50% drop in SIDS related deaths when babies sleep on their back rather than side or tummy. Again, this is because the airflow is at greater risk of restriction in these positions.

No Pets allowed

Regardless of whether you are bed sharing or using a side sleeper, never let pets sleep on the bed. You will be unable to monitor their movements as you sleep, putting baby at greater risk of suffocation.

Learn CPR

Knowing how to resuscitate your baby is a lifesaving skill to have. Knowing how to react in those precious few minutes can help to save your baby’s life. If your baby chokes on a toy or when weaning, you’ll be prepared with CPR skills. You never know when you may need it. Look into child-related CPR courses near you before your baby arrives.

Summary

We hope this guide was helpful enough to find the perfect co-sleeper for you. If you have any recommendation or tips for co-sleeping with your baby, please leave a comment below.

The post Best Co Sleeper Reviews – Ultimate Buying Guide appeared first on Stork Mama.

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Bottle Feeding Basics

These items are essentials that all moms will need if you plan to bottle feed. They ensure you can feed baby and maintain the equipment for safe use.

1. Bottles

There is so much choice when it comes to buying baby bottles. A few examples of the different types include:

• Anti-colic
• Disposable
• Glass
• Stainless Steel
• Breastfeeding

A baby bottle will hold the milk while baby sucks it from a teat. They usually come in in two sizes of small (150ml) for new-borns or large (280ml) for older babies. Most bottle are made of plastic, however if you want to avoid this opt for glass or stainless steel bottles. Any plastic parts should be BPA free by law. We recommend at least 6 bottles for formula feeding or frequently expressing.

2. Bottle Nipples

Most bottles will come with nipple teats attached. The problem is babies can be very fussy about the type of nipple they like. Rather than changing the whole bottle you can try a new Nipple. They come in different flows which control how fast the milk comes from the bottle. The shape should be chosen on your needs, as breastfed babies need a bottle nipple designed to mimic their usual suck technique. Bottle nipples are also available in different materials such as silicone or latex which affects how soft or sturdy the nipple is.

3. Milk

You’re not going to get very far without having milk to feed to your baby. The type will depend on your choice of feeding:

Breastfeeding – You’ll need to use expressed breast milk in the bottle. You can express by hand or by pump. If you want to express regularly we high recommend a pump. For occasional pumping on a budget opt for a manual breast pump. For frequent quick pumping without much effort choose an electric breast pump.

Formula feeding – Your need to buy your baby formula. We don’t recommend any in particular as nutritionally they are pretty much all the same. The biggest difference between them is how they are made up. The three different formula types are:

• Powder
• Liquid concentrate
• Ready Made

The kind you choose will depend on your budget and how quick and convenient you want to make your feeding routine.

4. Sterilizer

A bottle sterilizer if designer to kill off any bacteria on the equipment. Baby’s immune systems are immature, making them much more prone to infection. The three main methods of sterilizing include

• Boiling – using a big pan of boiling water.
• Cold Water – Using sterilizing fluid made up from tablets.
• Steam sterilizing – Using a microwave or electronic sterilizer.

The American Academy of Pediatrics state you don’t need to sterilize after every wash. However sterilizing baby’s equipment for the first year is good practice to reduce the chances of infection.

5. Bottle Brush

A bottle brush is used to scrub off any residue from leftover milk. Bottle have quite a quite a few nooks which can harbor bacteria if not washed thoroughly. These brushes are designed specifically for bottle. The large side tackle the inside of the bottle. The small part get into the teat and any smaller edges. The bristles are usually very soft to prevent scratching plastic bottle surfaces.

6. Muslin Cloth

Muslin cloths are perfect for using as burp cloths when feeding. Winding your baby can be a very messy business is they decide to vomit. A muslin cloth can be kept close by to mop up any accidents quickly. It may even save your sofa from needing an industrial clean every week!

7. Drying Rack

Air drying baby bottles is essential when washing baby bottle. Don’t be tempted to use a dish towel to dry as they harbour a lot of bacteria which will transfer to the bottle. A bottle drying rack is designed to hold all the small pieces that make up a bottle allowing them to dry individually. You may be tempted to use your normal dryer rack but remember bottle can take up a lot of room.

8. Baby Bibs

Bottle feeding can be with lots of milk dribbles. You don’t want to be changing your babies lovely new outfits with every feed. Using a baby bib will help you catch any milk that escapes during a feed. Modern bibs come in really cute patterns which can matach their outfits. Stock up on a lot as you’ll need more when your baby starts to teeth and wean onto solid foods.

Bottle Feeding Extras

These items are not necessary for bottle feeding. However if your budget will stretch they can make bottle feeding easier and more convenient.

9. Bottle Warmer

If you are using ready-made formula or expressed breast milk you may want to warm it up for baby. A bottle warmer is a quick and convenient way to heat milk to just the right temperature for baby. Other old school methods can create heat spots in the bottle which can scald baby’s mouth. Bottle warmer are available as:

• Electric – for home use these are large device which plug in and heat up.
• Portable – These are used when out an about. They are usually flask type warmers or powered with a car power socket.

You can read more about the best bottle warmers to use here.

10. Prep Machine

If you plan to use powder or liquid concentrate formula then you should make up feeds as you need them. This can be quite time consuming and stressful. Imagine having a crying baby and waiting for the water to cool to the right temperature. A formula prep machine is what you need. They are quite expensive, but the convenience they provide is sanity saving.

11. Formula Dispenser

Making bottle when out and about can be a hassle. A powder dispenser can keep your formula stored safely until you add water to make the feed.  They are also ideal for baby’s in day-care so you know baby has fresh powder every day. They are great for night feeds when you are too bleary eyed to faff around measuring powder at 2am.

12. Bottle Soap

Baby bottles should be washed as soon as possible after use. Bacteria just loves the warm sugary environment the milk create and can grow quickly. A regular dish detergent is fine to use, but we recommend a bottle wash[/easyazon_link] if it’s in your budget. These soaps are often formulated to contain less chemicals that are left on the bottles. They are great for removing any greasy layers cause by the milk fat and the any sour milk smell.

If you plan to express breast milk, you’ll need to store it until baby is ready to use the milk. There are a few different [easyazon_link keywords="milk storage" locale="US" tag="storkmama-20"]milk storage options to choose from. These will depend on your space requirement and how long you will store the milk.

• Bottle – Storage bottles are great for short term storage of milk but require a lot of room.
• Bags – Can be used for long term storage in the freezer and a fairly space saving.
• Trays – A great option for saving money by portioning and freezing so you don’t waste milk.

14. Travel Bottle Bag

Bottle bags are perfect for keeping pre-made or expressed milk cooled when you are out of the house. They are like mini cool bags for your bottles. You won’t appreciate the need for a bottle cool bag until you have a bottle of milk leaking all over your lovely diaper bag. They are also great for if you are returning to work and need somewhere to store your expressed milk until you get home.

The post 14 Bottle Feeding Essentials For Your Baby appeared first on Stork Mama.

Those dreaded 2am feeds come part and parcel of having a new baby. Why not have somewhere comfortable to sit and soothe your baby back to sleep? A nursery glider will not only look great in your baby’s room but will also provide a relaxing environment for you and baby.

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Nursery gliders are quite an investment to make so you’ll want to choose wisely.  Stork Mama has developed this guide to help you find the best nursery glider for you and your baby. Keep reading for our buying guide, features to look out for and benefits of using a nursery glider. Let’s start by with our reviews of the best-selling nursery gliders on the market.

Best Nursery Glider – Top 5 Reviews

Stork Craft Hoop Glider and Ottoman

• Pros: Affordable, easy assembly, smooth glide, foot rest, storage pockets
• Cons: creaky, not durable

The Stork Craft Hoop Glider is the best-selling nursery glider online. It’s a very affordable glider which will appeal if you are on a tight budget. The chair has a thick padding making it really comfortable and supportive, even for plus-sized moms.

The suede like fabric finish is available is a few colors to match your nursery décor. We particularly like that it comes with a matching foot rest to aid breastfeeding positions or elevate tired feet. The biggest downside was that most moms report they wish they invested in more durable chair.

Babyletto Madison Swivel Glider

• Pros: very comfortable, compact, high quality, smooth motion
• Cons: no storage, no head support, small

The babyletto Madison Swivel Glider is the perfect modern glider for those who are short on space. The compact size makes this chair more suitable for small to medium frames.  You will love how comfortable this chair is, it feels like you are supported by soft pillows.

It’s a great alternative to the traditional sleigh style chair and available in a few colors. The chair can glide and swivel in a really smooth motion for relaxing baby. The thinks we dislike about the chair is the lack of head support and not storage pockets for keeping feeding bit and bobs to hand.

Angel Line Windsor Glider

• Pros: Easy assembly, footrest included, storage pockets, generous size
• Cons: Thin padding

The Angel Line Windsor glider is a great traditional style glider with a wide seat. It comes complete with a generous sized foot rest for extra comfort. The lovely suede like fabric gives it a luxury finish with an affordable price tag.

The back and arms are padded so you can position baby comfortable and feel supported. Although the padding is a little thinner than we would like. We think it would look great in any nursery, and you can pick from neutral colors or modern chevron fabrics.

Newco International Grand Glider

• Pros: Luxury, looks great, very comfortable, modern fabric colors
• Cons: no foot rest, high arm rests

The Newco International Grand Glider is a luxurious option which will look gorgeous in your nursery. It’s pricey, but the quality speaks volumes. There is no obvious glider mechanism showing, and it will leave you feeling like you are floating on air.

It’s available in a range of beautiful unisex colors to suit most décor. It is so soft and comfortable to sit on, with plenty of back and head support. The downside is that the arms are a little high for certain breastfeeding positions. In addition you’ll need to pay extra for a matching foot rest.

Baby Relax Mikayla Recliner

• Pros: Recline, easy assembly, comfortable, supportive
• Cons: No Storage

The Baby Relax Mikayla is the best quality glider with emphasis on comfort. It comes with a recline feature for you to catch 40 winks. The simple design provides so much support when you are sitting in it. It’s ideal for all shapes and sizes.

The design is really modern with the option of two neutral tones both with a tufted back to give it an expensive look. The motion is both a smooth glide and swivel. The only thing we would add to this chair is a storage pocket at the side, and it would be perfect.

Nursery Glider Basics

Types Nursery Chair

Rocking Chair

This is a traditional type of chair you usually associate with grandmas. They rock back and forward due to the curved feet. They are an affordable option if you are on a budget, but you may need to add cushions for comfort and support.

Glider

This is a modern style chair with a smooth back and forth motion, and some may even swivel. They are designed to be more comfortable than a rocking chair and are normally heavily padded. This type is higher quality than a rocking chair and usually more expensive.

Buying Guide

Use these criteria to compare any potential nursery gliders before buying. Decide which areas rank highest on your list of needs. The ideal chair for you will be with one which performs best in this section.

Ease of use

A nursery glider should be easy to use on a daily basis. Consider how simple it will be you use with a crying baby in one arm whilst trying to feed them with the other. Remember in the early days you’ll need to master using it during hazy 2am night feeds.

Comfort

This is very important as you will be feeding a new-born baby around 8-12 times a day. That means your chair will get a lot of use, so invest in one that will be comfortable for you to use. Soft padding and foot rest are ideal to improve your confront levels. Make sure it’s easy to get in and out of. Remember a C-section or forceps delivery can make you very tender for a few weeks as you recover.

Cleaning

Feeding babies is messy whether it’s breast or bottle. Expect the occasional spilt milk or vomit to get onto the chair. That means you’ll want a cover which is easy to clean down and won’t stain or hold onto smells.

Durability

Your chair needs to be able to hold the weight of you or your parent as you feed. It will require a strong construction to hold up over time, especially if you invest in a good chair. Find out if the chair comes with a warranty should there be any issues with the gliding motion or structure.

Cost

Nursery gliders are quite a large piece of kit, which can add up. You can get a good performing chair as little as $120. However, the more durable, luxury or designer options can cost $1000 plus.

Nursery Glider Benefits

You may be considering using any old chair for your baby’s nursery. Here are a few reasons why you may benefit from a specialized nursery chair.

Comfortable Feeding

If you plan to breastfeed, your seating position can have a huge effect on your baby’s attachment. A nursery glider can help you support you back, head and arms to prevent you developing aches and pain in the areas over the day. Recline chairs can help you feed lying down or in a biological nursing position. Foot rests can help you to bring your lap upwards and aid the use of a nursing pillow.

Privacy

Dedicating an area where you can feed baby can help you develop a routine. Your chair should be situated within an area which is quiet, private and free from distraction. It also helps make feeding less awkward if you have guests around at the house, and you’re not comfortable with breastfeeding in front of them.

Pregnancy Relaxation

Get use of your glider before baby arrives. Use the chair to rest and relax when you feel overwhelmed or tired. The soft padding can provide relief for a sore back or pelvis. Chairs with a foot rest will allow you to lift your feet up and reduce the dreaded pregnancy swelling in those last few weeks.

Settle Baby

The gliding action of a nursing chair is very comforting for babies. They are used to being rocked back and forward inside the womb as you walked. If you are struggling to comfort a crying baby, a good skin to skin session on a glider chair will calm them quickly. The perfect solution for when you want to calm baby without waking the whole neighborhood during the night.

Bonding

A nursery glider will last for use way into toddler hood. It’s a great source of comfort for your child and can be used to bond over reading books, watching movies or just a lovely snuggle.

Nursery Glider Features

Arm support

For feeding baby you need support, which is comfortable and at the right height. Padded arms are usually best. However, a wide armrest allows you to use a nursing pillow. Contoured arms will allow you to try different feeding positions to suit you and baby’s needs.

Back Support

Decent back support will prevent you from developing upper or lower back pain when sitting. It also helps you to relax your shoulders for good breastfeeding attachment. Comfortable back support is important as you can spend a few hours each day feeding your baby.

Lock

A lock mechanism will help you to keep the glider still as you get in or out. It’s also a safety feature is you have other children around you when using the chair or as baby grows. You don’t want little finger coming jammed in the glider mechanisms.

Storage

Look out for features such as storage pockets to make feeding much more convenient. You can keep any extras such as wipes or cloths to hand. This helps keep any feeding disruptions to a minimum and prevent you disturbing baby unnecessarily.

Foot Rest

A foot rest can help improve your feeding position by bringing your lap closer to your torso when sitting. It can also help to reduce swelling, rest sore legs and make you feel more relaxed on the chair.

Motion

A range of motions can help to soothe your baby. Some babies prefer a figure of eight motions, which can be achieved with a chair which swivels and glides. A range of motion from your chair ensure you are less likely to disturb baby if you need to move whilst they are sleeping.

The post Top 5 Best Nursery Glider Reviews for Your Baby’s Room appeared first on Stork Mama.

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The choice of baby carrier is huge, so it can be very overwhelming for a beginner. Stork Mama have created this buying guide to help you decide which one is right for your family. We’ll discuss the different types, features to lookout for, pros and cons of baby carriers and carrier safety. Let’s start with our reviews of the bestselling newborn carriers and find out which ones came out on top.

5 Best Newborn Carrier Reviews

Best Wrap Carrier – Boba Baby Wrap

• Fabric: 95% cotton 5% spandex
• Age Range: Birth- 18 months
• Carry Style: Front, Hip and Back

Pros: Very comfortable, portable, suitable for premmies, custom fit

Cons: Fiddly to put on, overheating

Our Verdict

The Boba Baby Wrap is the bestselling wrap style carrier for your baby. The soft, thick, stretchy fabric will fit you like a glove whether you are petite or plus size. The fabric is wide enough to be comfortably worn by men too. It’s suitable to use from birth to 18 months, the perfect solution for hands free skin to skin with your baby.

Your baby will love the womb like hold of this wrap. It’s perfect if they are cranky, colicky or just love to be held. If you are a mama who need to get things done, you can keep baby close and your hands free. The biggest downside of this wrap is the time it takes to put on. There is a technique which is a learning curve at first, but will be second nature after a few uses.

Best Mei Tei – Infantino Sash

• Fabric: 100% cotton outer, 100% polyester padding
• Age Range: Birth- 3 years
• Carry Style: Front, Hip and Back

Pros: Affordable, suitable for plus size, back support, baby head support

Cons: Not suitable for preemies, wrap technique required

Our Verdict

Our best Mei Tai carrier goes to the Infantino Sash. If you are struggling to find a wrap which accommodate your bust and postpartum tummy these this is perfect. It’s just so adjustable and even comfortable on short mamas. Your partner will also be able to wear it without needing to readjust the sizing. Oh and let’s not forget for the price, it’s pretty much a steal. For the cost it’s a great option as a ‘back up’ carrier.

We should note this carrier is only suitable for larger newborns from 8lb upwards. It’s really comfortable to wear, even for those with back pain. The padded shoulder straps are lifesavers especially if you are carrying baby for long periods of time. This is another carrier which requires a wrap technique to learn.

Best Soft Structured Carrier (SSC) – Complete All Seasons Lillebaby

• Fabric: 100% cotton outer, 100% polyester mesh insert
• Age Range: Birth- 4 years
• Carry Style: Front, Hip and Back

Pros: Temperature control, lightweight, weather accessories, pockets

Cons: Expensive, bulky

Our Verdict

The Best structured carrier is hands down the LilleBaby Complete All Seasons. If you’re looking to invest in a high quality carrier which will last a long time then this is the best.  This carrier is just so comfortable to wear. The padded straps and lumbar support her to redistribute your weight to prevent aches and pains. The design is fairly unisex for men to wear.

For baby it’s really soft and the mesh padding keeps them really cool. Plus there is no need for an extra newborn insert which usually makes them overheat quickly. The sleeping hood is perfect for supporting baby’s head, protecting them from the sun and providing feeding privacy. One of the biggest downside was that it’s quite bulky so not one to easily store in a diaper bag.

Best Ring Sling – Mamaway

• Fabric: 100% Pima Cotton, nylon rings
• Age Range: Birth- 4 years
• Carry Style: Front Upright, Front Lying, Hip and Back

Pros: Portable, easy storage, lightweight, breastfeeding friendly, range of colours/designs

Cons: Expensive, plastic rings

Our Verdict

The best rated ring sling has to be the Mamaway. This style is perfect for carrying new-born’s is both upright and cradled positions. It’s strong enough to carry your baby into toddlerhood.  The design is really simple large piece of fabric and sturdy rings. It will take time to learn but you’ll pick it up quickly with written and video instructions.

We love just how portable this carrier is. It fold into a neat rectangle of fabric in its own self-contained pouch. So easy to carry around in your purse or a diaper bag. If plan on breastfeeding it also doubles up as a great discreet cover for feeding baby in public.

Best Pouch Carrier – HotSlings Adjustable Pouch Sling

• Fabric: 55% polyester, 42% rayon, 3% spandex
• Age Range: Newborn – 3 years
• Carry Style: Front and Hip

Pros: Comfortable, compact, perfect for a newborn

Cons: Sizing issues, requires practice

Our Verdict

The Hotslings adjustable pouch carrier is a favourite option for newborn’s. It helps your baby to naturally adopt a foetal position just like you were holding them in your arms. We love that you don’t need to fiddle around adjusting or tying, just place baby in a go. It’s also great for when baby starts to walk and get easily tired.

The biggest concern with this wrap appears to be the sizing issues. Some find it is true to size and other think it’s made small. It can be adjusted but only slightly. You wouldn’t be able to change between a smaller and larger frame.

Baby Carrier Basics

Baby Carrier Types

Wraps

A wrap carrier is a long, wide piece of fabric which is wrapped around baby and tied onto you. They are the most traditional type of baby carrier. Most common wrap fabrics are stretchy jersey knit or woven cotton. Wraps are the most adaptable for carry positions and sizing. They are quite tricky for beginners and you need to practice a lot before you’ll be confident using one with ease.

Mei Tei

A mei tai (“may tie”) is a traditional Asian style baby carrier. The design cradles baby in a rectangular centre with four long straps to attach around you. Mei Tai’s are best for long term use from newborn to toddler. This style is a lot easier to learn than a wrap carrier. They are very light, portable and easy to change between mom and dad.

Soft Structured Carriers (SSCs)

Also known as buckle carriers, a SSC is a modern carrier style. The design is similar to a mei tai but with buckle attachments rather than ties. This style is best for beginners who want a comfortable and convenient carrier without a learning curve. Dads often love this style as they are similar to wearing a backpack. They may also come with additional feature such as pockets, hoods or weather covers. Some styles may require an additional insert to support a newborn baby.

Ring Sling

A ring sling is a modern adaptation of traditional sash slings. A rectangular piece of fabric is held in place around baby with two tension rings. The fabric tail can be adjusted to comfortably fit the wearer. This type of sling is best for breastfeeding moms as it can be used a nursing cover. This type of sling is very easy to learn to use.

Pouch

A pouch carrier is very similar to a ring sling without the rings. It’s a simple piece of fabric worn over the shoulder and across the body. The shape creates a pouch to cradle a newborn or seat infants and toddlers. This style is very quick and easy to use. It’s convenient to use when out and about as its compact enough to carry around in your purse or diaper bag. The downside is they can’t really be shared between caregivers unless they are a similar size.

Carry Positions

It’s important your baby is held in a position safe for their age as well as comfortable for you. Ideally your choice of sling can adjust to most carry positions to adapt to you and baby’s needs.

Front

This position is the most natural for a newborn. It comforts baby because it gives the warmth and sounds of being in the womb. You can keep a close eye on baby respond to baby’s needs quickly. The close contact helps encourage a healthy milk supply for breastfeeding moms. Baby will also become more responsive to your body, helping you to quickly notice early hunger cues.

Common front carry positions include:

• Fetal – An upright position for newborn babies. The legs adopt a natural curled position and the head, neck and back is well supported.
• Lying – Similar to you cradling baby in your arms, baby is on their back. The head, back and legs are supported by the fabric.
• Upright – As you baby grows and gains more strength their legs can take a seat positions. For healthy hip development a baby’s legs should develop an M shape in the sling.

Hip

This position becomes natural as your baby grows. Most moms with natural carry babies on their hips as they lift them up. Using a hip carry can make it easier for you to carry out task then a forward facing position. Your hips provide a support for your baby to adopt a natural wide leg position. It’s a great potions for communicating with you baby and helping them learn about the world.

Back

Carrying on your back is ideal for older babies and toddlers. As baby gets heavier they will put more pressure on your baby in front carry positions. A back hold means you can carry your older baby for longer periods of time without becoming sore. Again it’s easier for you to do tasks which are difficult to do when baby is on your front.

Carrier Features

Fabric

The type of fabric used for your sling will affect how you carry your baby.

• Weave – Stretchy type fabrics can handle lighter babies but may not provide enough structure for toddlers.
• Finishes – What finishes or dyes have been used to make the sling? Does it conform to the Oeko-Tex® Standard 100 Class I? Babies tend to suck on straps or fabric for comfort and you want to avoid them taking in any nasty chemicals.
• Weather appropriate – Carriers with singles layers of fabric, light colors and lightweight materials will help the air to flow and keep both you and baby cool.

Fasteners

The type of fastener a carrier has will affect how quickly you learn to put the carrier on. Fastener type also affects the type of learning curve of using the carrier.

• Knots – Carrier such as wraps and mei tai’s require you to hold baby on by tying knots in the fabric. This can be daunting to a beginner, but gets easier with practice.
• Buckles – Structured carriers close with clips. These are really easy to put on and convenient for beginners.
• Rings – Ring sling trap the fabric in between two metal or plastic ring to secure. They are easily adjustable, but require practice to become confident using with ease.
• None – Pouch sling don’t require any fastening at all which makes them easy and quick to use. However they can’t be adjusted as baby grows or between different wearers.

Back Support

Choosing a carrier with good support for your back will prevent aches and pains. This is particularly important if you have pre-existing back pain.  Good back support will help you to wear baby for longer periods of time without becoming sore.

Shoulder Padding

Similar to back support, good shoulder padding will improve your comfort when wearing baby. As you baby grows the weight will begin to strain more on your shoulders. Passing prevents fabric rubbing and discomfort whilst carrying baby.

Airflow

Keeping both you and baby cool is important for safety and comfort. Features which improve airflow will help to prevent you and baby overheating. This is particularly important in summer months or in hotter climates. Look out for:

• Vents
• Mesh panels
• Shaped sides
• Head Support

New born babies cannot support their head, so they have a tendency to flop down. Your baby’s head need to be positioned away from their chest in a carrier. If there is not head support, baby’s head can fall forward and put them at risk of restricting their airway.

Cover

When it’s cold outside you’ll want to keep baby warm. A sling cover is specially designed to over the area where baby gets cold, whilst keeping the head free. It’s important with any type of carrier cover that you can always see baby breathing at all times.

Pockets

This is a handy features especially if you don’t want to carry a bag as well as baby. Pockets can hold your phone, keys, pacifiers, wipes etc. when you are out and about.

Baby Carrier Buying Guide

We’ve designed this buying guide to help you find a baby carrier which best suits your lifestyle. This will help you narrow down your choices to a select few carrier options.

Usage

• Age range – We already know you want a carrier suitable for a new-born but how long you do intend to use it for. Stretchy wrap carrier are best for short term use. Woven ring slings are best for carrying older children.
• Users – If you plan to use it between a few caregivers you’ll need a carrier which adjust to each person’s size. You should make sure each wearer is comfortable with the carrier fastening technique.
• How often – If you plan on using your carrier instead of a stroller then you need to invest in one which is durable. You will also want to make it portable so you can carry around with you at all times.
• How long – For wearing baby over long periods of time you’ll want to be comfortable. Look for a sling which has back and shoulder support to prevent pain developing in these areas over time.
• Where – Do you intend to wear the carrier when out and about or for use in the house? Breastfeeding moms may want a carrier which makes it easier to feed baby from.

Comfort

Baby wearing should be comfortable for both you and baby. This is what you should look out for to improve comfort for you both.

Baby

• Position – Your baby needs to be is a safe and comfortable position. When upright ensure the carrier gives them a wide hip position to help them develop properly. Some carries will allow a cradle position for newborns.
• Support– Baby’s back and neck should be well supported. Baby should have the head positioned off the chest with spine in a natural C shape.
• Fabric – A soft but breathable fabric is best to keep baby comfortable and cool. Fabric should not rub against baby’s legs, arms or neck area.

Wearer

• Support – Shoulder and back strains common as your baby gets heavier. Carriers which distribute the weight to these areas allow you to wear the carrier for longer periods of time.
• Sizing – Carriers with adjustable sizing allows you to keep a comfortable fit. This is important if you swap between your partner or when you are losing any pregnancy weight.
• Weight – Consider how heavy or lightweight the carrier is to wear with baby inside. SSCs are usually heavier than cloth carries such as wraps, mei tais or ring slings.

Looks

The style of a baby carrier is important if you want to use it frequently. Most brands will come with a variety of colors and prints to suit your taste. Remember that your partner probably won’t want to wear a pink, floral print to carry baby. Men often tend to prefer the structured carries as they have a unisex appeal.

Safety

Your baby carrier should conform to international safety standards ASTM F2907.

• Fabric – This must be suitable to hold the weight of your baby. Carrier should come with a maximum weight range which the fabric can support. Soft stretchy knits are suitable for newborns but not great for heavier infants.
• Position – You carrier should be able to position your baby’s head so they can be seen breathing. They hip position is important to prevent any developing problems with hip dysplasia.
• Durability – For frequent use the carrier must withstand plenty of knot tying or buckle fastening. Invest in a high quality carrier with strong stitching on the fabric.

Ease of use

• Fastening – Carriers without buckle have a learning curve of wraps and ties to hold baby in place. This can take a few practices to get used to. Plus throw a wriggly baby in the mix can make it more stressful. SSC’s and pouch sling are best for ease of use.
• Adjustable – To give you a comfortable custom fit its best to opt for an adjustable carrier. These will give you and baby a snug fit. They will also prevent back and shoulder pain as the carrier won’t pull or strain when baby is inside.
• Portable – A small and compact carrier is perfect for storing in your handbag or diaper bag when out and about. Fabric carriers are smaller and more lightweight than bulkier structured carriers.

Cleaning

• Machine Washable – This can make cleaning carrier very quick and convenient. Do however make sure you know how long it takes to dry or you may be left with a wet carrier and a grumpy baby.
• Stain resistant – A few stain will start to show if you frequently use a carrier with an older baby. Lighter color become grubby quicker than darker colors.

Cost

A good quality baby carrier can cost anything from $30 – $160. Regardless of your budget you will find a carrier that is safe, comfortable and suits your needs. We highly recommend investing is a high quality carrier if you intend to use it daily or as an alternative to a baby stroller.

Benefits of Using a Sling

Baby carrier have been used for centuries and modern moms are starting to realize the numerous benefits they offer to new parents.

For Mom

Ease of movement

If you’ve ever used a stroller in a crowded area you’ll know how difficult they are to use. A baby carrier requires very little space and you can move around as freely as you do normally. You can take stairs and escalators with not need to wait in line for an elevator. They make activities such as hillwalking much easier with baby in tow.

Cost

If you are on a tight budget or want to try attachment parenting then a baby carrier can help you avoid using a stroller at all. Stroller are a huge expense with a baby carrier costing at least half the price.

Space

For those who don’t have enough room to swing a cat, storing a bulky stroller can be problematic. A baby carrier tucks away neatly with minimal space required.

Hands free

Even when you are on maternity leave you’ll have things you want to do. Whether its reply to emails, some housework or caring for older siblings. A baby carrier allows you to comfort baby and do these tasks at the same time.

Lose weight

The extra weight of baby can help you to shed the pregnancy pounds by burning off more calories as you walk.

For Baby

Settling

Babies who receive kangaroo care are known to settle better and sleep for longer. This is because they are comforted by the close contact, warmth and sound of a heartbeat.

Improved Digestion

Upright positions ease the symptoms of colic or acid reflux for a baby. Their digestion is aided so there is less chance of them vomiting or becoming gassy, leading to fussiness.

Less Crying

Studies have shown that babies who are carried in a sling cry 40% less than those who are not. This eases the pressure for parents and can lead to less incidents of postnatal depression.

Bonding

The skin to skin contact helps your oxytocin hormones to flow. This is an attachment hormone known to improve your baby’s IQ and social skills in later life.

Promotes Breastfeeding

Again the oxytocin hormone help to improve your breastmilk supply. A baby who is help close will be more responsive to feeding.

Prematurity

Carriers are heavily encouraged for premature babies as the close skin contact helps them to gain weight faster and have a better temperature regulation. The improved breastfeeding relationship is also important for preemies as breastmilk promote quicker development.

Issues with Baby Wearing

There are some areas of baby wearing which should be addressed to ensure you and baby get the best experience possible.

Safety

Baby carries are complete safe to use with the right technique. The important thing is to follow the TICKS baby wearing rules which we will discuss in the safety section below.

Clothing

Ensure that you are always suitability clothed to be wearing a baby carrier. It’s always best to opt for a lighter layer as you will soon heat up with baby attached to you. Try not to carry around extra bags which can cause your shoulder to become lopsided. If possible try to find a carrier with storage pockets.

Back Pain

If you have ongoing pain issues, discuss baby wearing with your doctor or health care provider beforehand. The most suitable carrier to choose will offer distributed back and shoulder support with comfort features. If your back pain increases, stop using the carrier immediately.

Baby Wearing Safety

It is always important to ensure your baby is being carried safely every time you use your carrier. A simple way to check this is to use the TICKS method.

• Tight: Your baby should be adjusted so they are snug up against your body. The fabric should not allow them to slump down as this can cause baby’s head to flop and your back to hurt.
• In View: When upright you should be able to see your babies face at a simple glance. When in a lying position they should be facing upright and not inwards toward your body. Never cover their face with any fabric.
• Close to Kiss: In upright positions your baby should sits high up enough on your chest so you can kiss their forehead or face.
• Keep Chin off chest: Your baby’s chin should tilt up towards your head rather than down towards this chin. This can restrict their airway, making it difficult to breathe. There should always be at least one finger width between baby’s chest and chin.
• Supported Back: Baby’s back should be supported in a natural position. When upright their tummy should be towards you. In a lying position their bottom should be in the deepest part of the carrier. Check by pushing on their back – it shouldn’t uncurl or move inwards.

Optimal Positioning

To find the best way to wear your baby dependent on their age or carrier type check out this fantastic resource by Baby Wearing International.

The post Best Newborn Carrier Reviews: Baby Sling Buying Guide appeared first on Stork Mama.

Swaddling is a technique used for centuries to calm babies and help them to sleep. A great swaddle blanket will not only warm and soothe your baby but will provide a safe sleeping environment.

Pin For Later

With so much choice, it can be a bit of a nightmare, knowing where to start. We developed this guide to help you know what to look for and what’s available out there.

Check out our buying guide to find the best features for you and your baby’s needs. First, let’s check out our favorite swaddle blankets.

Top 6 Reviews – Best Swaddle Blankets

HALO SleepSack

Pros: Adjustable arms, 22 color options, allows hip flex, cooling fabric, easy diaper change

Cons: Loud velcro, excessive fabric

Our Verdict

The Halo Sleepsack is the bestselling swaddle wrap online. It’s addressing design concerns with using swaddlers. The best feature is the ability to choose how you position your baby’s arms. You can wrap them tightly, leave them free or place beside your baby’s face depending on their preference.

It’s made from nice lightweight fabric to keep baby warm but not overheated. Baby’s hips can flex and kick to prevent displacement. You can use it as a sleep sack as baby grows. A great choice and comes in 22 different fabric designs and two sizes: newborn and small.

aden + anais Classic Swaddle

Pros: Multi-use, breathable, soft, durable, 15 cute designs

Cons: Requires swaddle technique, expensive

Our Verdict

The classic swaddle by aden + anais is very highly rated by moms. These blankets are made from soft, thin cotton known as muslin. They are large and easy to work with. They are on the pricey side but can use them for burping, nursing or as a stroller cover. Muslin cloths are a must-have for new moms.

You will need to learn the correct swaddle technique with these, as there are no fasteners. We love that they can comfortably snuggle baby, but they not bulky and won’t cause overheating. These would be perfect if you live in a hotter climate or your newborn is a summer baby.

Summer Infant SwaddleMe

Pros:  easy to use, lightweight, harness attachment, inexpensive

Cons: noisy velcro

Our Verdict

The Summer Infant SwaddleMe is the easiest to use on our list. These swaddle blankets are very affordable at under $25 for a set of two. Simply place baby in the pouch and velcro the sides over. The wrap is really secure for the upper body so your baby won’t be able to Houdini wiggle out.  The material is a very soft and lightweight cotton to keep baby secure and prevent overheating.

They come in a choice of small, medium or large as well as 17 fabric designs. If you have a carrier with a 5 point harness, there is a slot on the swaddler to attach through and provide extra safety for your baby on the move.

Miracle Blanket Swaddle

Pros: Very secure, lightweight, no fastenings, fits small and large babies

Cons: difficult diaper changes

Our Verdict

If your baby is a fussy wriggler then you need the Miracle Blanket. This swaddle blanket provides a very secure swaddle for your baby, so no matter how hard they try, they won’t escape. The design has arm flaps and is wrapped twice so they simply cannot wriggle free.

The material is made from breathable and lightweight cotton, although its bulkier than other designs as you wrap to secure. The lack of fastener makes it a lot quieter to use than those with Velcro, which can startle baby when opening.  This swaddle blanket comes in 40 different colors and print designs.

BundleBee Baby Wrap

Pros: supports baby, cushioning, use as a play mat, cute design, durable

Cons: bulky, fastening tie not attached, loose fit

Our Verdict

If you want to keep baby snug without a tight swaddle then check out the BundleBee wrap. Baby is swaddled in the cushioned layer and then kept snug with the tie fastener. It provides enough protection as well as room for baby to move, so we would only recommend his for daytime use when you can supervise baby.

This blanket is like a duvet. However, the polyester filling is breathable and won’t cause your baby to overheat. If you have older children, it will provide them with some holding support while keeping baby calm. This is a great option if you live in a colder climate or have a winter baby.

Love To Dream Swaddle Up

Pros: very easy to use, allows hip movement, suitable for preemies, variety of designs

Cons: tight fit, only a few months of usage

Our Verdict

The Love To Dream Swaddle blanket is the best option if your baby loves to sleep with their arms up. This position can help your baby to self soothe and show early signs of hunger. As baby’s hands are kept safely inside the blanket, they won’t be able to easily scratch their face.

This swaddle blanket it very easy to use as it’s a tight fit with a zip close to keep baby snug. The zipper is two way so you can free baby’s legs easily to change a diaper during the night. It’s also perfect for preemie babies as the smallest size is suitable from 4.5lbs. Sizes range from preemie newborn up to 2.5 years old.

Swaddle Blanket Buying Guide

Let’s discuss the features that differ between swaddle blankets. The pros and cons will help you to decide what you need from your blanket.

Type

Blanket

This type is a simple receiving blanket with features suitable for swaddling. This type is not shaped, and without fastening, so you need to know how to wrap your baby properly. If you don’t know the technique baby can wriggle free easily. Hip displacement is more likely with a blanket style if you wrap your baby too tight. Blankets tend to be more lightweight, prevent overheating and are adjustable to grow with baby and position baby’s arms to how they like them.

Wraps

Wrap style swaddles are designed for ease of use. They contour to babies shape and have easy fastening to keep baby secure. Various styles are available for baby’s preferred arm position, and most will allow for hip flexion. It’s much easier for a baby to overheat in a blanket or for baby to slip under the fabric if you use the wrong size.

Arm Position

Babies tend to use their hands to help soothe themselves. The type you choose will be down to the way your baby prefers to sleep.

Up by Cheeks

Swaddle blankets which position the arms up allow baby to sleep in a natural position. They can still attempt to suck their first to show signs of hunger. In this position, babies can still startle easily and scratch their face unless the wrap covers their hands.

Down by Sides

Babies in this position tend to settle easier and for longer as you prevent their startle reflex.  Usually, babies who don’t like this position will struggle to break free from the swaddle. Newborns tend to like this position better but will soon begin to want movement as they grow.

Adjustable

A wrap which can adjust to offer baby’s arms up, down or to be free is best. You can buy the swaddle before baby arrives so no need to wonder if they will prefer arms up or down. It also helps as your baby grows older when most prefer to have their arms free as they sleep.

Fabric

You want a fabric which will help your baby at the right temperature. That means keeping baby warm without overheating them. Let’s look at the most common types of fabric used.

Cotton – Well known for being used for baby items as it’s soft, durable and breathable. The biggest drawback of cotton it that it can stain quite easily.

Microfleece – Offers the heating benefits with breath-ability. It’s also water resistant and dries easily. We wouldn’t recommend using microfleece in hot climates.

Bamboo – A natural fabric similar to cotton. Bamboo is breathable, soft and antibacterial without being bulky. Tends to shrink quicker after a wash.

Polyester Blend –   Gives all the benefits of cotton as well as being more durable. The drawback is it’s a man-made fiber which you may want to avoid using on your baby.

Fastening

Swaddle wraps usually have some sort of fastening to secure your baby in the fabric. Let’s explore how these fabrics affect the blanket.

Velcro – A simple fastening which is very easy to use, especially when dealing with a wriggly baby. The downside to Velcro is that it can be very noise to undo around a sleeping baby. You also need to be careful not to damage other items in the wash.

Ties – The biggest benefit of a tie fasting is adjustability. You can decide how snug you want your baby to be, and this will differ as baby grows. Ties are not so easy to fasten if you have a grumpy, wriggly baby.

Zip – Another easy to use and wash fastening, even better if it’s a double zip to allow easy access. The drawback is they aren’t adjustable and can be irritating to your baby.

Swaddle Blanket Comparison Guide

If you have a few swaddles to choose between, it’s best to compare the features. The blankets which score highly in areas important to you will be the best swaddle blanket for you and your baby. Use this list to compare how well each blanket performs.

Ease of use

Consider how easy the swaddle blanket will be to use. If you want convenience, then opt for a swaddle wrap. If you are comfortable with the swaddle technique, then you can choose from either type. Other considerations are how easy it is to use with a crying baby and access to diapers when your baby is asleep.

Durability

You’ll be using a swaddle blanket quite often during those first few weeks. It has to withstand daily use and cleaning. Consider how easy and quick it can be cleaned and dried.

Comfort

The swaddle blanket needs to be comfortable for baby to use; otherwise, they won’t settle in it. Baby’s arm position will play a big part in this as they will have a preference from them being up or down. You also don’t want the swaddle to be too loose or too tight for baby, but a snug fit.

Safety

A safe sleep space is vital for your baby’s safety. Blankets are a source of harm if misused. A swaddle should allow your baby to keep at a comfortable temperature. Baby should not be able to wriggle underneath any access fabric as they sleep.

Price

There are great swaddle blankets available for all price ranges from budget to luxury. Expect to pay $10-$40 for a swaddle blanket.

How to Swaddle a Newborn

Benefits of Swaddling

Prevents SIDS

Swaddling encourages parents to place your baby on their back to sleep. This is one of the biggest factors for preventing baby deaths from SIDS in the Safe to Sleep Campaign.

Sleep Longer

The tightness of a swaddle makes a baby feel like they are back in your womb. It’s a comforting sensation which helps to stabilize their heart rate and keeps them calm. A baby who sleeps longer will allow exhausted parents to get more sleep.

Keep Baby Warm

Babies have poor temperature regulation and can get cold very quickly. A swaddle blanket helps them to maintain their heat by covering all of the body. Too much heat loss can cause large weight loss for your baby, which can know your confidence as a parent or affect a breastfeeding relationship.

Assist Breastfeeding

Newborns babies get their hand everywhere. They will pull and claw around the breasts when you want to feed them, making it difficult for them to latch on properly. A swaddle blanket can give you control over baby’s arms until they attach and then remove the blanket. This can give you more confidence to feed your baby and prevent you and baby becoming frustrated during feeds.

Less Crying

Went your baby is swaddled with their hands down you reduce their startle (Moro) reflex. This causes your baby’s arms to flail outwards and make them feel vulnerable. Keeping baby wrapped tightly also help them to combat colic and fussiness. You’ll experience a lot less stress if your baby cries less.

Fewer Scratches

Newborns usually have long nails, which causes them to scratch their faces. Keeping baby’s hands down or covered with a swaddle blanket will prevent this, especially if you have a newborn photo shoot planned.

Disadvantages of Swaddling

Swaddling is an excellent skill to have as a parent to help you calm your baby. If done incorrectly it can pose a few problems for your baby.

Overheating

You should always observe your baby for signs of overheating regardless of whether you swaddle or not. Try to use lightweight breathable fabrics if your house is particularly warm or in a hot climate. Use a thermometer or check the back of baby’s neck; it should neither feel hot nor cold.

Hip displacement

The concern is that you wrap your baby too tight for an extended period of time. This can cause poor hip development. If baby’s legs are allowed to flex this will not be an issue.

Fit

A good fit can be tricky if you’re new to swaddling, which is why most opt for a swaddle wrap. Your baby needs to be wrapped tight enough to prevent the covers unwrapping or covering baby’s face. They should also not be wrapped so tight that they struggle to breathe.

Prevents feed cues

Restricting movement can prevent you from picking up on early hunger signs such as first sucking, stretching or arm movements. Be aware of other early cues such as lip sucking, head turning, and opening and closing the mouth.

Swaddling Safety

The American Academy of Pediatrics has made these recommendation for safe swaddling practice:

Baby Always On Back

Your baby should always be placed on their back to sleep as it reduces the risk of SIDS by 50%. Never place a baby on their stomach to sleep, not even for a nap, it increases their risk of SIDS.  You baby should have plenty of tummy time during the day to prevent them from developing flat head.

Correct Technique

If you choose to use a receiving blanket or muslin square to swaddle ensure you have the correct technique. Have a health care professional demonstrates it to you or ask them to assess your technique. The fit should be neither too tight nor too loose, but snug enough to keep baby secure.

Protect Hips

Babies hips should always be flexed and allow for movement. This will encourage health hip development and prevent long term physical damage.

Monitor Temperature

Baby should have no more than one layer of clothing on under their blanket. The room temperature should be comfortable for you as an adult.

Swaddling FAQ

When should I start swaddling?

You can begin to swaddle your baby on the day they are born. We recommend you get as much skin to skin contact as possible at first to improve bonding and promote breastfeeding. It’s a good time to ask your nurse or midwife to demonstrate the swaddle technique for you.

How often should I swaddle?

A newborn can be swaddled for 12-20 hours per day. They should be given time for skin to skin contact and to freely move. As your baby grows, you should reduce the amount of time you spend swaddling in the day.

When should I stop swaddling?

Around 14 weeks (3-4 months) your baby will learn to roll over. If your baby is attempting to roll, you should stop swaddling. If you have an adjustable arm swaddle blanket you can switch to baby sleeping with their arms free from the blanket.

Am swaddling too tight?

A swaddle should be tight enough to stop the blanket becoming loose. A swaddle should not make it difficult for your baby to breathe. You should be able to slip your fingers easily under the blanket and along baby’s chest. The hips and legs should be free to open or move.

Help! Swaddling isn’t settling my baby.

First, make sure your baby is not wrapped too loose or too tight making them uncomfortable or feeling unsafe. If you feel the fit is snug enough, you can try changing baby’s arm position. You can try any of these arm positions:

1. Side – Arms are straight down the body by baby’s sides. This is the most traditional swaddle position you will see in tutorials.
2. Chest – With the arms bend at the elbow baby’s arms cross over their chest. This position is often adopted by babies in the womb and will feel comforting to them.
3. Face – Some babies prefer their arms upright. Bend the arms ar the elbow and touch together on the chest. Baby’s fists should rest on their chin or cheeks when swaddled. This helps them suckle their finger to sooth themselves.
4. Half Swaddle – Position one arm in any of the three positions above and keep the other arm free. This is a good swaddle weaning position as baby begins to want more space to move when sleeping.

The post 6 Best Swaddle Blankets: Reviews & Buying Guide appeared first on Stork Mama.

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Like most baby products there is a lot of choice out there. It can be difficult to know which one is best for your baby. We’ve researched what’s on the market and picked our top 10 baby washes which are suitable for newborns. Check out our picks.

>>> Best Baby Bath Tubs: Ultimate Buying Guide <<<

Best Baby Wash for Newborns – Top 10 Reviews

Note: All out reviews include a score from the Skin Deep website. This is a safety rating based on the ingredients health and environment impact. A score of 1-2 is low hazard.

Aveeno Baby Wash

Price: Around $7 for 18fl oz.
Skin Deep Rating: 2

Our Verdict

Aveeno Baby Wash is the most popular baby wash on the market. This wash is great for sensitive skin types as the formula is soap free, paraben free, no more tears and hypoallergenic. It can be used as a body wash and shampoo. It leaves your baby’s skin really soft with a lovely fresh scent.

If you baby has eczema prone skin it one to try. The oat extract really helps to soothe the irritated areas and calm the inflammation.

Dr. Bronner’s Fair Trade & Organic Castile Liquid Soap

Price: Around $20 for 32fl oz.
Skin Deep Rating: 1

Our Verdict

Castile based washes are the original baby soaps. The Dr Bronner’s Castile Liquid Soap is perfect all natural cleanser for your baby’s skin. There are no synthetic detergent or additives to irritate delicate or sensitive skin. It’s also a certified organic and vegan option.

It’s on the more expensive side cost wise, however a little goes a long way. You can also use it to wash baby’s bottle and weaning equipment as they grow.

Puracy 100% Natural Baby Shampoo

Price: Around $20 for 16fl oz.
Skin Deep Rating: 2

Our Verdict

Puracy Baby is a baby wash developed by a team of Doctors to cater to baby skin. This wash smells gorgeous with a light and fresh pink grapefruit scent. The ingredients are food-grade, plant and mineral-based to make it completely safe for new born use.

It’s suitable for sensitive or dry skins conditions as it won’t dry the skin out or strip baby’s skin of essential oils. It’s also a vegan based products and is not tested on animals.

Weleda Calendula Baby Wash

Price: Around $8 for 6.8fl oz.
Skin Deep Rating: No data available

Our Verdict

For a really gentle option check out Weleda Calendula Baby Wash. It’s made from plant based cleansers and oils to clean baby and leave their skin soft and moisturized. We love that its very affordable compared to other natural based baby washes.

The scent leaves your baby smelling lovely but subtle and not overpowering. This baby wash is free from sulfates, parabens, phthalates and mineral oil and no tears formula.

Burt’s Bees Baby Bee Baby Wash

Price: Around $7 for 12fl oz.
Skin Deep Rating: 1

Our Verdict

Burt’s Bees is a much loved brand by moms and their Baby Bee wash is just as highly rated. It comes is a choice of original, lavender or unscented for those who like the performance but a different scent. All of the formulas are no-tear and suitable for newborns to use due to the plant based ingredients and no phthalates, parabens, petrolatum or SLS.

The formula is really gentle and works well with sensitive skin types. Burt’s Bees products are not tested on animals.

Earth Mama Angel Baby Body Wash

Price: Around $9 for 5.3fl oz.
Skin Deep Rating: 1

Our Verdict

Earth Mama Angel Baby body wash is another great all natural option. This wash contains no toxins, and made without synthetic fragrance, detergents, antibacterial chemicals, phthalates, parabens or sulfates. It has a fairly strong orange and vanilla scent, which is very refreshing. It comes is a hand pump bottle and is really easy to use with a nice foamy lather.

Aquaphor Baby Gentle Wash

Price: Around $7 for 13.5fl oz.
Skin Deep Rating: 2

Our Verdict

Aquaphor baby wash is soap-free, tear-free, fragrance-free, and dye-free option for your baby. It’s one of the best soaps out there for dry skin conditions such as eczema. If your baby suffer from bad cradle cap it will help you to tackle the problem with ease. Additions of chamomile and vitamin B5 help to soften skins and prevent irritation.

It comes in a handy pump bottle which is easy to use. The wash lathers onto baby and is very easy to rinse off.

Era Organics Honeybuns Baby Wash

Price: Around $20 for 8fl oz.
Skin Deep Rating: No rating available

Our Verdict

If you want a lovely natural baby wash made in the USA then check out the Era Organics Honeybuns baby wash. It’s crammed full of organic ingredients such as organic chamomile tea, coconut oil, aloe vera, olive oil, hemp oil, raw honey and pacific sea salt. This give a safe, pH balanced soap to clean any much off your baby without irritating the skin.

Oh and did we mention its hypoallergenic, non-toxic, paraben free, alcohol free, perfume free and free from toxins, phthalates, petrolatum, or mineral oil. And to top it off it has a light sweet honey scent to it.

Cetaphil Baby Wash

Price: Around $6 for 7.8fl oz.
Skin Deep Rating: No rating available

Our Verdict

Cetaphil is a highly recommend baby brand by pediatricians. Their baby wash It’s great for sensitive skin due to the tear free, paraben free, colorant free, mineral oil free, and hypoallergenic formula. Although we should note it is scented which can sometime irritate eczema prone skin.

It dispenses is a squeeze bottle for one handed use. It’s a lathering soap which is also very easy to remove and doesn’t dry out baby’s skin.

California Baby Calendula Baby Wash

Price: Around $20 for 19fl oz.
Skin Deep Rating: 1

Our Verdict

Keep your baby calm and relaxed with the California Baby calming body wash. It contains aromatherapy grade lavender and calendula which promote calmness and soothing. The formula is organic, vegan friendly, no tears and non-irritating. It will leave your baby’s skin and hair so soft and silky smooth.

The oils in this product give it quite a strong, natural scent, so it may not be suitable if you want an unscented product.

>>> How to wash a newborn baby: Beginners Guide <<<

Baby Wash Buying Guide

Buying a baby wash is similar to buying your own soaps. There are a few criteria you should consider before choosing a wash which best suits your family. Remember what work for other may not work for you, and it can be a bit of trial and error until you find one which works for you. Use this guide to help you narrow down your choices.

Performance

The main aim of a baby wash is to keep your baby clean. Most newborn washes are suitable for both hair and body use. Newborns are often covered in a greasy substance call vernix. They also suffer from dry scalp known as cradle cap. A good shampoo will be mild enough to cleanse baby without leaving their skin dried out.

Ingredients

Most parents want to keep their baby as free from chemical toxins as possible. Cheaper baby washes tend to have more man made chemical ingredients which can be harsh on newborn skin. Babies have very sensitive skin and are more like to suffer conditions like eczema. Look out for brands with all natural ingredients that still perform well. Other concern include checking if the ingredients are vegan, cruelty free, organic or fair trade.

Scent

A baby wash can perform great but if it the scent is awful then you just won’t want to use it. If your baby has sensitive skin an unscented wash is usually the best option. On the other hand you may prefer you baby to have a nice fresh sent after being washed.

Formula

Consider if you want a baby wash which has a soapy lather or one which is more like a lotion. Most baby washes also have a no-tear formula which reduces the stinging effect of getting soap in your baby’s eyes.

Packaging

Picture yourself using the soap as you bath baby. Do you think the packaging would be easy to open and apply to baby one handed. With a newborn you need to support baby and do everything else with your free hand. Choose a wash which is easy to use, at least until baby can support themselves in the bath.

Cost

There are great performing washes to suit all budgets. You may want your baby to use a luxury product or you may be on a tight budget. Even if a wash seems expensive it may last for months if only a little is required with each wash. Expect to pay around $5-$20 for a baby wash.

The post Top 10 Best Baby Wash for Newborns appeared first on Stork Mama.

Bathing a baby for the first time can be a scary experience. They are already tiny and wriggly and now you need to add wet and slippery into the mix. A bath is part of caring for you baby, to keep that soft baby skin fresh and clean. A baby bath tub will give your little darling their very own bathing area.

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A well designed baby bath will not only help make bath time easier for you but also make sure your baby is comfortable and safe. If you walk into any baby store you’ll see to huge variety of baby bath tub styles. Finding the best baby bath tub for you can be confusing and time consuming. Stork Mama have creates this guide so you have all the information you need at your fingertips.

>>> How to Wash a Newborn Baby: Step By Step Guide<<<

Content

This guide is huge, with a lot of information to take in. To make it easier for you to read we’ve split it up into bite size pieces. Use the menu below to jump to the information you need. Don’t forget to bookmark this page to come back and read later.

• Baby Bath Tub Comparison Chart
• 8 Best Bath Tub Reviews
• Baby Bath Tub Basics
• Buying Guide
• Safety Advice

Baby Bath Tub Comparison Chart

8 Best Baby Bath Tub Reviews

Any of these baby bath tubs would be a great buy. Ultimately it will come down to your needs and personal preferences. If money is no object you will have your pick of all bath types with various features. However, it’s best to suit your needs to the performance of the bath. There are some great quality baby tubs available for all budgets.

Primo Euro Bath

• Type: Classic
• Age Range: 0-2years
• Colors: White or blue

Pros: Great price, molded support, USA made, BPA free, accessories holder

Cons: Very large

Our Verdict

The Primo Eurobath is a great classic baby tub with a simple plastic, molded design. It’s a great option if you want no frills or fuss from your baby tub. It’s suitable to use from birth up to two years old. We love the molded non-slip design to support both newborns and toddlers. It takes away that fear of you baby slipping out of your grip as you wash them.

The sides can hold cloths, soaps or shampoos to keep them within reach, so you don’t need to turn away from baby. It’s also very easy to keep clean by wiping down any leftover suds.

The biggest downside we found with this baby tub was its size. It can hold a lot of water, which makes it very heavy to carry. We would recommend using this inside a bigger tub of filling with jugs of water. Storage may also be a problem as it will take up a lot of room.

The First Years Sure Comfort Deluxe

• Type: Convertible
• Age Range: 0-18 months
• Colors: Pink or Blue

Pros: grows with baby, mildew resistant, temperature sensor,

Cons: large to store, molding makes it harder to clean

Our Verdict

The First Years Sure Comfort is the bestselling baby tub on the market. Its award winning and highly rated by moms. It comes with a standard contoured bath tub and mesh sling attached. This design makes it very easy to use for newborns, older babies and toddlers.

The sling is used to support your new-born whilst you wash over the tub. The contoured tub will support your baby into reclining and seated positions as they grow. Unlike standard baby baths the plastic is coated with a soft non slip, foam pad for baby’s comfort. You can even fit the bath into a large sink to save you back. Once you’re finished undo the temperature sensing plug for easy draining.

What we love most about this bath is the cost. You’d think with deluxe in the name it will be expensive, but you can pick this baby bath up for under $20. An absolute steal.

Luxx Baby Karibu Folding Bath

• Type: Folding
• Age Range: 0-3 years
• Colors: Blue, pink or yellow

Pros: Easy storage, non-slip bath mat, easy clean, soft material

Cons: No support for baby

Our Verdict

If you need a baby bath which is easy to store then check out the Luxx Baby Karibu tub. You can fold it flat and even hang it up to drip dry when not in use. The sides are made from a soft rubber to help it collapse, but are also soft and comfortable for baby in the water. The legs are very sturdy and can be folded inwards.

This bath is very easy to clean as it has a flat surface without contours. It also comes with a cute little bath mat to prevent baby from slipping in the water. For extra safety the drain plug double as a temperature indicator for safe water temperature.

The biggest downside when found with this tub was that there was very little support for young babies. Supporting baby yourself can cause back and arm strain so we recommend using with a cushion or support seat.

Blooming Bath

• Type: Sink Insert
• Age Range: 0-6 months
• Colors: Yellow, green, pink, ivory and turquoise

Pros: soft, use as a play mat, fits most sinks, portable

Cons: short term use, expensive

Our Verdict

You will love the Blooming Baby bath as an alternative to a tub. It’s shaped like a giant sunflower with petals to cradle your baby. It will shape to fit into almost any sink and make your baby comfortable with the soft padding. It also helps you provide a safe and supported bath, especially for newborns. We can’t help mention that your child will look absolutely adorable sitting in it.

It will save to a lot of space, especially if you have a small house. When it’s not in use you can use it as a play mat for tummy time for baby. Plus it’s really easy to clean and can even be machine washed and dried.

The biggest drawback of this bath is that your get only a few months of use for your money. However as we’ve already suggested it can be used for baby play time when you cannot longer use it to bath baby.

The Original Tummy Tub

• Type: Bucket
• Age Range: 0- 2 years
• Colors: Clear and green

Pros: minimal water use, no slipping, soothes baby, lightweight, easy storage

Cons: expensive

Our Verdict

If you want your baby to feel like they never left your womb then check out the Tummy Tub. It’s an oval shaped bucket which allows baby to have an upright bath time. It’s suitable to use from birth as you support baby’s back and head. The idea is for baby to feel safe and relaxed at bath time due to the fetal position.

You can use this tub anywhere, including in the sink to save bending. This tub uses very small amounts of water. It’s great for saving energy and if you live in states which sometimes have water restrictions. It’s durable and easy to clean and store.

We find this tub is a little expensive for what is essentially a curved bucket. It does have a longer age range than other bathing buckets.

4moms Cleanwater Infant Bathtub

• Type: Luxury
• Age Range: 0-12 months
• Colors: white

Pros: accurate thermometer, keeps water fresh, supports baby, easy empty

Cons: requires batteries, won’t fit smaller sinks

Our Verdict

If you’re a fan of tech gadgets then the 4moms Cleanwater tub is perfect for you. It’s designed so the water flows and your baby is constantly bathed in fresh, clean water. Before the water even reaches baby it passes through a nifty digital thermometer. You will be alerted by a color code if the water is too cold (blue), too hot (red) or just right (green).

The inside of the bath is contoured with a foam back. This offer baby both comfort and support for easier bathing. You can also choose how deep the bath fills by opening the appropriate circulating drain.

The biggest downside we found was that you need a decent size sink for it to fit well. The measurements are 32 x 17 x 9 inches so check your sinks before buying.

Leachco Flipper

• Type: Cushion
• Age Range: 0-18 months
• Colors: Frogs or ducks

Pros: soft, fits into sink, use to ‘top & tail’, easy storage with hanger

Cons: very heavy when wet

Our Verdict

The Leachco Flipper is a great way to make you own bathtub safe for baby. It is designed with a cushioned outer edge with a sling center. One side is suitable to use for newborns as it provides soft support in a reclining position. The other side is deeper so a toddler can sit upright with ‘bumper’ protection from slipping.

The cushion doesn’t hold water, it simple absorbs the regular bath water, providing a smaller are of support for baby. It’s a great way to get your baby to associate bath time with your own tub to ease the transition as they grow.

Do note that this bath cushion gets very heavy once it’s soaked. To avoid mildew it should be rinsed with clean water before wringing out and hanging to dry in a well ventilated area. It can also be machine washed on a hand wash setting and dried on a low heat.

Munchkin White Hot Duck Tub

• Type: Inflatable
• Age Range: 6 months – 2 years
• Colors: Yellow

Pros: portable, easy storage, temperature disc, textured surface

Cons: not for everyday use, difficult to clean

Our Verdict

If you want a great performing inflatable baby tub opt for the Munchkin White Hot Duck Tub. This type of tub is designed for infrequent use, such as staying over at grandparents or traveling. As it’s not an everyday bath we won’t hold it to the same standards as one which is.

You’ll need to add air to this tub for it to give your baby support. It’s rather large, so using your mouth may leave you feeling like you’re going to pass out. Use an air pump and get the job done quickly.

It’s soft and comfortable for little ones and the textured surface prevent them from slipping around. We love the temperature dot which show if the water is too hot (white) or just right (blue). It can be used as a mini play area for baby, or using in a pool or at the beach.

Baby Bath Tub Basics

Types of Baby Bath Tub

Traditional Baby Bath Tub

This is the type that will spring to mind when you think of a baby bath tub. It’s designed just like your own tub but sized for a baby. You can fill these with water and wash baby on the floor, in your own tub, in a sink or on a tub stand. These tubs may be open design or with contours to support baby. Traditional baby baths come in three different styles:

• Fixed – The tub stays in a fixed position. This offers stability and room for baby. This type can be difficult to store s they take up a lot of room.
• Convertible – This type comes with a few parts so it adapts as baby grows. A sling is used to support newborns, and contoured bath tub supports babies and toddlers. These save money as can use from birth until baby is able to use your regular bath.
• Folding – This tub fold down for easy storage. It’s great if you don’t have much room for storage.

Portable Baby Bath Tub

This type of high chair is designed for convenience of washing baby wherever you want. The main features of these baby tubs are that they are compact, lightweight and easy to store. Portable bath tubs are mostly used in a sink or a regular tub. There are three different types of portable baby bath tubs:

• Sink Insert – Sinks are perfect for washing small babies as they are virtually mini tubs. To make bathing more comfortable for baby you can use a plastic or fabric sink insert. This will also offer baby support whilst you wash them down.
• Inflatable – Simply inflate to use and deflate to store. These tubs are really simple to use and great for on the go use. Although they are not durable for everyday use.
• Cushion – Use in a regular tub to offer a support for baby in the water. It will absorb the water and allow baby to recline in comfort. The enclosed space prevent slipping or any bumps.

Tummy Tub

A tummy tub looks like a bucket that you wash your baby in. It has a contoured shape which sits them in the fetal position to mimic baby being back in the womb. This tight enclosed tub can really comfort babies who struggle with standard baths. The upright position can also help to prevent colic and reflux if your baby has digestion issues.

Baby Bath Tub Materials

Plastic

Most standard baby bath tubs are made from molded plastic. This makes them sturdy, watertight, durable, lightweight and portable without water. They are also very easy to clean and dry after use. They are usefully more affordable that fabric bath tubs. Fixed shape plastic tubs take up a lot of space and can be harder to store.

Fabric

Modern Baby bath tubs have started using fabrics to support baby whilst bathing. This offer baby a lot more comfort than a hard plastic tub. Fabric baby bath tubs are soft, portable and easier to fit into sinks. Keep them hygienic and prevent mildew by machine washing and drying. Fabric baby baths are great for those who want to minimize using plastic baby products.

Mesh

Convertible Baby Tubs often come with a sling hammock to support newborns. This mesh type fabric is comfortable and contours to baby’s shape. It also you to support baby whilst cleaning them. The holes in the mesh allow the water to fall back into the bath without pooling around baby.

Foam

Some baby bath are lined with a foam cushioning on top of the plastic. This offers a little more padding to make baby comfortable. Sponge bath insert are another option if your plastic bath doesn’t have any type of padding.

Anatomy of a Baby Bath Tub

Seat

This part should provide both comfort and support for baby in the tub. Padded seats offer a lot more comfort for babies. Plastic contoured seats provide support for baby and make it easier to wash baby.

You can add your own foam, sponge or mesh insert to a baby tub to provide additional comfort and support. This can then be removed as your baby grows and needs more room.

Check for any sharp edges on the seat by running your hand over it. This can rub on baby’s soft skin and cause damage.

Look out for contoured seats which support a reclining and seated position.

Edges

You may have never considered to side or edges of a baby tub as a feature but they do offer you benefits. A curved rim will give the bathtub a safe, comfortable edge for you and baby. The lip will also act as a handle to carry the bath, or hand to store.

The edges may also double as an area to hold your cloths and baby wash. Keeping these thing close to hand is important to make bath time safe, quick and efficient.

Sloped edges will also minimizes any spills cause by carrying a tub full of water, or emptying it after a bath.

Drain

A drain plug is a feature of some baby tubs to make them easy to empty. Simply pull on the plug and let the water drain away.

This helps to save you straining to push over a heavy bath full off water. It also cuts down any mess from back flow or splashes when emptying.

Drains are usually located on the

• Bottom – allows for easier and faster emptying but can be uncomfortable or easily kicked open by baby.
• Side – This position avoids the pitfalls of a bottom opening plug. However it requires more maneuvering to empty the bath completely.

Base

The base of the bath tub is what will offer all the support. It’s important the base is durable and study.

A great feature of the base is an adjustable or contoured area to help it fit easily into a sink. This makes for easy filling and will save your back from bending the wash baby.

A large base will give an older baby lots of room to move but it can be very bulky to store.

Thermometer

To prevent you from filling the bath too hot or cold a temperature indicator is recommended. This takes over the traditional method of checking with your elbow or wrist. Temperature indicators are usually one of two types:

• Heat Sensing Strip – This acts like those thermos t-shirts you got in the 80’s. The area senses the heat and changes color at certain temperatures. Usually these will only detect hot temperatures and don’t really indicate if the water it too cold.
• Digital Display – This type will give you an exact temperature reading. Some deluxe models will even indicate with colors and/or beeps if the temperature is out of a normal range.

Baby Bath Buying Guide

Let’s look at all the features you should look for to find the best baby bath for your family.

Age Range

Newborn – You may only want a baby bath to use for the first few month until they can support themselves. The best options for this are sink inserts or tummy tubs.

Toddler – Investing in a regular or modular baby tub will see you through from birth to toddler-hood. These types have features to adapt the chair for the support needs of new-borns, infants and toddlers.

Usage

Frequent – You should invest in a baby bath tub which is sturdy and durable. You may also want to consider how easy the bath is to fill, empty and store for ease of use.

Occasional – If you’re buying a baby tub for visiting family or traveling then opt for one with portable features. They should be lightweight, easy to store and assemble.

Cost

New – Baby bath tubs are fairly inexpensive items. You will usually get a great performing tub for around $20. The baths which cost more often have a higher level of comfort or tech features. We recommend investing in safety feature over anything else.

Second Hand – Another option is to get a bath second hand for a bargain. First ensure the bath tub has not been recalled by the manufacturer due to safety concerns. Also check for cracks, breaks or scratches which can a hurt baby and even harbor bacteria.

Safety

Safety is the most important feature of any baby bath and should never be overlooked. Never invest in style or fancy gadgets over safety, it can result in serious injury for your child. This is the safety feature you should look out for.

All baby bath tubs should conform to ASTM F2670-09 Safety Standard for Infant Bath Tubs.

Stability – A standard baby bath with a large fixed base will offer you most stability. Baby Baths with a flexible or contoured base are at greater risk of moving in use. Your baby bath should withstand the weight of both the water and your child.

Non slip surface – Wet babies are very slippery especially on a smooth plastic surface. A non-slip or textured seat will prevent your baby moving around too much.

Contours – This is an inbuilt are in the bath which help to position baby and support them from sliding or falling into the water under close supervision.

Temperature Check – A built in thermometer will stop you from guessing if the water is ok for your baby. Water which is too hot or cold can be dangerous for you baby. A digital thermometer is best so you know the exact temperature and if the water is cooling down too quickly.

Locks – A folding or convertible baby bath should have locking features to stabilize the structure of the bath.

Ease of Use

Picture yourself in the situation of a wet and wriggly baby in one arm and trying to clean with the other. It make look good or cost little, but is it practical to use often?

Set Up – consider how easy the baby bath is to set up and fill. DO you need to make fiddly adjustment to support your baby’s age range? Does the bath allow you to control the depth of the water as well as keeping baby comfortable and safe? Consider if you can wash baby easily with one hand.

Size – How much room do you have to set up your baby bath? Are your using a sink or a larger area? A large tub offers room and stability but it can be heavy and hard to store. Portable baby tubs should be positioned correctly as they are not as stable as a regular baby bath tub.

Storage – If you are short on space then a folding baby bath or a sink insert is a great space saving option. Standard baby baths can be very bulky to store. Fabric baby bath may need to dry out before storing as they can absorb a lot of water.

Portability – Fabric and foldable bath tubs are the best option for moving around in the home. For use out of the house and inflatable tub or sink insert is the best option. Standard bath tubs are best left assembled in your bathroom to for convenient access.

Comfort

Bath time should be a relaxing experience, otherwise it will leave you and baby feeling extremely stressed. This is how your baby tub can make your baby more comfortable as you wash.

Padded seat – A soft area to sit on is going to be way more comfortable than hard plastic.

Position – A contoured recline or a sling is perfect for babies who can’t sit upright. As baby grow an open or contoured seat design can help them to sit and play in comfort. Bucket styles are great for keeping babies of all age upright just like in the womb. This can help to ease the discomforts of reflux or colic for some babies.

Space – This is a case of personal preference for your baby. Some will feel more secure in an enclosed tub and others like the floating sensation with larger tubs. Your baby may get cranky quickly if they don’t feel secure or don’t have room to move about.

Cleaning

Your baby bath will need to be kept clean and dry so it hygienic for baby to use. Check out these features to cut down on the cleaning workload.

Material – Plastic baby baths are the easiest to wipe down. Tubs with contours tend to have areas which harbor stagnant water or suds. Fabric high chairs need to be rinsed and wrung out before leaving to dry.

Machine washable – Fabric baby tubs can usually be machine washed and dried. This speeds up the laundering process and keeps it hygienic. However frequent laundering can reduce the tubs durability or make it look worn out quickly.

Baby Bath Safety Advice

You should never take your child’s safety for granted during bath time. Your child it at greater risk of slips, bumps, scalding or drowning. Always adopt this safety advice when bathing baby.

Never leave baby unsupervised

There are no exceptions to this rule, you must always provide adult supervision for your baby in water. Do not leave them even for one minute. A baby can drown within 20 seconds in less than one inch of water. It’s simply not worth the risk.

Gather all your bathing supplies before you begin so you don’t need to leave baby’s side. Your baby should always be within arm’s reach. Never assume that your other children can supervise your baby.

Check the temperature

Water which is either too hot or cold can pose a risk to babies. Your baby’s skin is a lot thinner than an adults and can scald easier. A cold bath is particularly risk for young or premature babies. They find it harder to regulate their temperature and lead to weight loss. We recommend using a bath thermometer to check you bath water is 90-100⁰F.

Protect the faucet

If baby is positioned in a sink near a faucet you should protect it. A faucet can retain heat for a while after poring hot water. It’s also puts you baby at great risk of injury if the slip. A faucet cover will cushion the area and protect delicate fingers from heat.

Use non slip surface

A plastic surface can become very slippery even if you have baby well supported. A tub with a non-slip surface will reduce the risk of baby slipping down. A non-slip surface will also make you more confident about bathing baby and washing them with your free arm.

Learn CPR

Learning how to resuscitate a baby is a very useful life skill. Hopefully you will never need to use it, but when seconds count it can save lives. These skills are transferable if you baby chokes on a toy or when weaning to solid food. Find out about CPR courses near you.

Summary

We hope this guide was useful to help you find the right baby tub for you. If you have a favorite tub you want to share with other moms, or baby bathing tips? Then leave a comment below, we’d love to hear from you.

The post Best Baby Bath Tub Reviews: Ultimate Buying Guide appeared first on Stork Mama.

Buying for a new born can be completely overwhelming. There is so much choice it can be difficult to know what’s essential and what to skip. Stork Mama have brought you this registry guide to avoid the stress.

>> Free Checklist Available after the list <<

PIN FOR LATER

Don’t worry, you don’t need to buy everything on the list. What you need will depend on your family life. First time parents usually need to buy more than those who already have kids. We’ve broken it down into three categories of need:

Essentials – These are the basic things you will need for baby. If you want to buy the bare minimum then this is what every baby will use.

Wants – These items are not essential but will make your life a whole lot easier. Usefulness is dependent on your parenting style and some will suit you more than others.

Luxury – These are the items that are splurge gifts for baby. Ideal for gift givers who want to buy you big ticket items. Adding these to your baby registry means you can get a big completion discount if nobody buys it for you.

Related: Where to register for baby gifts online

What to Put On a Baby Registry

For Baby

This list contains pretty much everything you can buy for baby. That’s a lot of stuff, so we’ve broken it down into simple categories. You don’t need to take it all in at once so remember to bookmark or pin this page for future reference.

Nursery

Decorate your baby’s nursery with all the things they need. These items will give baby a safe place to sleep and store their clothes, diapers, toys and keepsakes.

Essentials

• Blankets – Keep baby warm with layers of lightweight fabrics which allow air to circulate. The best blankets are the cotton cellular type which hospitals use. Fleece blankets are best for day time use as they can cause baby to overheat easily.
• Crib – Essential for baby sleep. A good crib will last many children or convert to a toddler bed. If you plan to breastfeed then co-sleeping cribs are ideal.
• Crib Sheets – These will cover the mattress and protect the top layer. Cotton sheets are great for all seasons.
• Mattress – The crib will need a safe mattress. Most good mattresses will have a waterproof layer to prevent any diaper accident damaging the surface.

Wants

• Crib Set– Match these to your nursery décor, and spruce up your crib. Most set include a quilt and sheets and crib skirt. For Safety reasons we do not recommend using cot bumpers on your baby’s crib.
• Curtains – Keep the light out at night with some curtains. You may also want to consider a black out blind if baby’s nursery gets a lot of natural light.
• Décor– Add finishing touches to your nursery theme with wall and furniture décor or decals.
• Hamper – Baby will go through a lot of dirty clothes. Keep them out of sight until the next wash with a cute hamper to match your décor.
• Hand/footprint kit – Capture precious memories of those tiny baby hands a feet. They grow so quickly, you’ll love to look back on them as you baby grows.
• Hangers– If you have a closet you’ll need hangers for baby clothes. Opt for larger sizes as baby will grow out of smaller clothes quickly.
• Keepsake box – Keep those little mementos safe and in one place in a cute little box.
• Lamp – Great to use during wind down time or a bedtime routine. Using low light helps to get baby used to less light at night.
• Memory book – Remember all those firsts, milestones and memoirs by organizing them into a baby book.
• Mobile – Keep your baby content and soothe them with some gentle music.
• Night Light – Soft lighting is essential for when you’re trying to be discreet during a 2am feed or nappy change. Also great for toddlers who dislike the dark.
• Organizer– Keep handy items within reach. Most organizers are for door or wardrobe use.
• Photo Albums – Store those treasured photos for years to come. You can pull this out when you’re introduced to their first love interest!
• Piggy Bank – Teach your baby good habits and start them saving from birth.
• Rug – Add a bit of warmth and an extra touch of theme to your nursery.
• Sheet Saver – If your crib mattress is not waterproof, simply add a sheet saver to prevent stains from accidents.
• Sleep positioner – Perfect for helping baby sleep on their backs. Also a great item for co sleeping by providing baby with a safe sleep space.
• Storage Basket – Plenty of storage will never go amiss to storage baby’s bit and bobs.
• Swaddle wrap – No need to stress about swaddle technique. Keep your baby wrapped tight to help them feel calm and soothed.
• Toy Box – Your baby’s toy will take over if they don’t have a home to go to. You’ll be surprised at how quickly it fills up over the first years.

Luxury

• Bassinet – Perfect for baby rooming in with you for the first 6 months. A lot smaller than a crib and won’t leave baby feeling so exposed.
• Nightstand – Great for using alongside a glider or a rocker. Store your feeding items in here for quick night feeds.
• White noise machine – Proven to calm crying babies quickly, play this in the nursery for a peaceful night for you and baby.

Diapering

You will spend a lot of time changing diapers, especially in the first few months. Choose a method that feels right for you and fits with your family life.

Essentials

• Diapers (Cloth or Disposable) – Cloth diapers are eco-friendly and overall save money but they are hard work. Disposables are convenient but overall costly and bad for the environment
• Cotton Balls– All you need to clean up a dirty bottom is cotton wool and water. It’s kind on baby’s skin and doesn’t contain nasty chemicals.
• Diaper Covers – To make a cloth diaper completely waterproof you’ll need a cover. This will prevent your baby’s clothes becoming soaked as they soil the diaper.
• Liners– Cloth diapers require liners to make them easier to clean up mess. You can choose from paper or fleece liners.

Wants

• Baby Powder – Old fashioned but helps dry out any creases. It keeps baby comfortable and prevents friction rash.
• Baby Wipes – Handy for on the go, when you don’t have access to water. Clean up diapers, spit up or messy faces.
• Changing Mat – Provides a soft, waterproof surface to prevent mess whilst cleaning up baby.
• Dad Bag – Exactly the same as a diaper bag but suitable for men. Rucksack styles are great for men.
• Diaper Bag – Be prepared for every eventuality on a trip out of the house. Modern diaper bags often come with handy travel change mats.
• Diaper Cream Applicator – Apply your baby’s diaper cream quickly and easily with an applicator.
• Diaper Pail– Disposable and cloth diapers can benefit from a diaper pail. Pop the dirty diaper in until the next wash or cut down the smell of disposables.
• Diaper Sprayer– If using cloth diaper a sprayer helps you to blast of the worst of the baby poop down the toilet.
• Diaper Stacker – Store your diapers in baby’s nursery without having ugly boxes or packs on show.
• Rash Cream – Stop any nasty diaper rash in its tracks with a good barrier cream to hand.
• Splatter Shield – Use alongside a diaper sprayer to prevent any wayward diaper contents being blasted across the room.
• Swim Diaper – If you have a pool or want to take baby swimming, you’ll need a waterproof diaper. This will hold any accidents in without weighing baby down from the bottom end.
• Wet Bag – Store any soiled wet diapers in a wet bag when you’re on the go. This will prevent them touching any of your diaper bag contents until you get home.
• Wipe Holder– Great for on the go use. Great for preventing baby wipes from soaking the contents of your bag.
• Wipe Warmer – Keep your baby wipes warm and minimize disruption to your sleepy baby. These also help prevent your wipes from browning once the pack is opened.
• Natural Sponge – Sea sponge is a super soft alternative to wash cloths for your baby.

Luxury

• Changing unit – Save you back and have everything to hand for changing baby. Store all your diaper and baby hygiene items in the drawers or shelves.

Travel

For parents on the go you need some equipment to help you get baby out and about. Let’s take a stroll through gadgets that will make traveling a lot easier for you and baby.

Essentials

• Car Seat – If your baby will travel by car it need to use a car seat by law.  Car seats maximize your baby’s safety if you have an accident.
• Baby Carrier – Keep your baby close and move around with them strapped to you. Bear wearing saving money, improves bonding and great for your baby’s development.

or

• Stroller– Push your baby as you walk with a baby stroller. Baby can either sit or recline in a sleep position.

Wants

• Body Support – Help to position your baby in their car seat. A body support offers more cushioning for a more comfortable journey.
• Back Seat Mirror– Keep a close eye on your baby when you are driving. You’ll see what your baby is doing in a glance.
• Car seat canopy – On those scorching hot days you’ll need to keep your baby cool in their car seat.
• Car Seat Organizer – Store all your on-the-go essentials neatly in the car. This helps to keep them to hand when you need them.
• Car Seat Protector– You’ll be taking the baby car seat in and out a lot. Protect the interior fabric form any scrapes or mess with a seat protector.
• Car Sign– Let other drivers know you’ve got a baby on board.
• Car Sun Shade – Prevent the sun glaring in your baby’s face. A car sunshade will keep the light minimized and the heat down.
• Cup Holder– Handy if you love a good cup of coffee when you’re out and about. Attach it to the handle of your stroller for easy pushing.
• Foot Muff– When the cold sets in during those winter months a foot muff will keep baby warm. You can also get baby carrier foot muffs.
• Insect Net – Stop any nasty biting bugs in their tracks. Handy to have if baby is born in summer or you like to go camping.
• Play Tray– Pop this onto the front of your stroller in front of baby. The tray helps keep toy in place so baby is content on your travels.
• Rain Cover – Don’t get caught in a sudden downpour with your stroller. A rain cover will keep the rain out but you can still see in.
• Shopping cart cover – Ensure your little one get a comfy seat each time you visit the store. This will provide a soft, warm and clean space for baby in the cart.
• Strap Covers – Prevent harsh straps rubbing against your baby’s face with padded covers.
• Stroller organizer – Another way to keep essentials close to hand. Can also help you to carrier heavy loads when on the go.
• Sun Cover – Prevent your car seat from overheating and scolding baby. Pop this sun cover over and keep the seat cool until you need to use it.

Luxury

• Bike Trailer – For the adventurers who want to get baby active from a young age. Set up on the back of your bike and take baby for a spin.
• Carry Cot – Your new-born baby will sleep a lot, so let them do it in comfort. Some carry cots can be strapped into the car as a replacement seat.
• Stroller board– Ideal for those with older kids. Attach to the back of the stroller and let them ride along as you push.

Feeding

Whether you choose breast or bottle you’ll find products to help make baby feeding easier. Then you’ll need to consider weaning to solid foods at around 6 months old.

Essentials

• Feeding Bottles– Used to feed your baby formula or expressed milk. You’ll find lots of different types to choose from.
• Formula – This is dried milk powder suitable for babies to drink as an alternative to breast milk.
• Nipples– Part of the bottle where baby sucks the milk from. Shapes and flows will vary to suit your needs as baby grows.

Wants

• Baby Blender – For making your own baby food. A good blender will help see you through the puree to lumpy stages.
• Baby cookbooks– Get lots of inspiration for baby meals and expand your baby’s tastes.
• Baby Feeder – Great for safe baby led weaning on the go.
• Bibs – Protect baby’s clothes from the mess of weaning.
• Booster Seat – Can turn most chair into a high chair for baby weaning. Great if you eat out often or plan to travel a lot with baby. Best for older babies or toddlers.
• Bottle Brush – Clean out milk from bottles quickly and easily without causing damage.
• Bottle Warmer– Have a bottle ready at the right temperature for baby. A life saver during night feeds.
• Bowls – Unbreakable bowls and plates for when baby is learning to eat.
• Breast Pump – The perfect complement for breastfeeding. Allows you to express milk for times when you can’t feed baby directly at the breast.
• Breastfeeding Cover – If public breastfeeding makes you uncomfortable a nursing cover can help you be more discreet. Modern day styles can look no different from an infinity scarf.
• Burp Cloths – Your baby will spit up a lot. Burp clothes save your clothes and prevent stains.
• Cooler Bag – Store expressed milk in a safe place until you can give it to baby.
• Drying Rack– Washed bottles will take up a lot of space. Buy a drying rack for baby’s things so you know what still needs sterilized.
• Highchair – Let your baby eat at table level and save your back when weaning. Highchairs give baby their own space to explore food.
• Milk Storage – If you plan to express you’ll need containers to store your breast milk in the fridge or freezer.
• Nursing Pillow – Give your arm and back support for successful breastfeeding. A nursing pillow can help you feed baby in different positions.
• Nursing Stool – A footstool which helps to position your feet at the right level for a good nursing position.
• Pacifier – A great way to soothe babies who are comforted by the suckling motion.
• Sippy Cup – Teach your baby to drink from a cup without the mess.
• Splat Mat – Save your carpets or floors from any splats
• Spoons– Soft cutlery allows baby to develop their self-feeding skills without any accidents.
• Sterilizer – Remove bacteria from all those items your baby puts in their mouth. This will cut down on baby catching any nasty bugs lurking.
• Storage containers– If making your own baby food you’ll need some storage pots. Freezer pots are best for bulk cooking.

Luxury

• Baby Food Maker – Take the hassle out of making baby food and let a handy machine cook and blend it all in one.
• Breast Pump Bag – For discreet pumping on the go, buy a breast pump bag so it looks like a regular handbag. Great for if you want to express when you return to work.
• Formula Machine – Like a coffee machine but for formula. Take the hassle out of making bottles and let the machine do all the work for you.
• Glider– A nursery glider gives you and baby a great space to breastfeed. A good glider will provide the support you need for good feeding positions.
• Portable high chair – Similar to a booster chair but suitable for younger babies. Have a high chair to hand wherever you go.

Bathing

Keep your little one clean and fresh with a regular bath time. Make it a safe and relaxing experience for all with these products.

Essentials

• Baby wash – You baby’s skin is very delicate and regular products can be too harsh on them. Look out for baby safe, pH friendly soaps and washes.
• Towels– Get your baby into a good habit of having their own towels. Smaller towels will cut down on heat lost when drying baby.
• Washcloth – Get into all those nooks and folds with a good old fashioned wash cloth.

Wants

• Baby brush– Soft bristles will help free your baby’s hair of tangles and leave it looking neat and tidy.
• Baby lotion– Prevent you baby getting dry skin by using a lotion. Babies with allergies are prone to suffer from eczema and dry skin.
• Bath kneeler – Save your knees from the pain of kneeling on the hard bathroom floor.
• Bath Mat – Will prevent any slips or sliding in the bathtub.
• Bath Organizer – Keep all your baby’s bath time product in one easy to reach place by the bath.
• Bath support – Hep your baby sit in a comfortable position without slipping around in the bath.
• Bath thermometer– Make sure the bath temperature is at the right temperature to prevent burns or scalds to baby’s delicate skin.
• Bath toys– For a little bit of bath time fun.
• Bathtub– Use in any room of the house to wash baby. It helps to cut down on water waste from using your own bath.
• Baby Massage oil– Promote bonding and prevent dry skin by regularly massaging your baby after a wash.
• Nail clippers– Minimise scratches and pulled nails by keeping nails neat and tidy.
• Rinse cup – An angled cup which make it easier to remove shampoo without getting water in your little ones eyes.
• Baby Shampoo – Keep baby’s hair nice and clean with a baby safe shampoo.
• Sink Tub – Also known as a folding tub, you can use these to bath baby in a sink. Handy for travel or saving you back from bending with a regular tub or baby bath.
• Spout cover– Prevent your baby having any accidents from slips or hot water taps.
• Toothbrush – Start brushing as soon as those first teeth pop through. A small, soft toothbrush can also help relieve gum irritation from teething.

Luxury

• Baby Jacuzzi– Pamper your baby with a spa bath. The bubbles and shower head with sooth baby and relax them.

Health and Safety

You’ll want a few things on hand should baby have an accident or illness. Baby proofing your home will prevent those curious little hands from incidents. These items will help get you started.

Essentials

• First Aid Kit – These are handy to have in the house and one for your diaper bag. The contents will see you through any minor ailments baby has.
• Thermometer – Babies are prone to illness due to their young immune system. Checking baby’s temperature can let you know whether it’s a serious fever which require medical attention.

Wants

• Baby Detergent – Look out for a detergent which is powerful yet sensitive on the skin.
• Colic Relief– Settle your baby’s upset tummy with a little gripe water and massage.
• Corner guards– Smooth out those sharp edges and prevent any nasty bumps if baby has a wobble.
• Cupboard locks – Whether it’s glassware or chemicals you little one won’t be able to access item which can be dangerous to them.
• Door Cushion – Prevent tiny finger being jammed in door by padding the edges and preventing door closing.
• Furniture straps – Attach your furniture and appliances firmly in place to prevent them falling onto baby.
• Humidifier – Helps to prevent dry skin and can help baby breathe easier for a good night’s sleep.
• Medicine dispenser – A safe an easy way to get your baby to take their medication without fussing.
• Nasal aspirator– Remove excess mucus and prevent coughs, upsets tummies or ear infections.
• Room Thermometer – No more guessing if baby’s room is too hot or cold.
• Safety Gate – Some babies learn to crawl up surfaces very early. You’ll need a stair gate to prevent baby climbing up or falling down your stairs.
• Socket Covers – Electrical sockets are fair game for little finger and at the right level. Block them off with flat covers.
• Sound Monitor – These are great for when baby transfers to their own nursery. Like a walkie talkie, you’ll be able to hear baby’s cries from another room.
• Sun cream – Babies over 6 months old can use sunscreen to protect their sensitive skin from burning on hot days.
• Teethers – Help baby soothe those sore gums with a teething toy. The surface will help to tackle the irritated surface and reduce the pain.
• Teething Gel– Cool baby’s gums from the aches and pain for new teeth.
• Toilet Seat Lock – Keep you baby away from playing with toilet water or touching any cleaning chemicals inside.

Luxury

• Baby care washer – Designed to wash baby clothes and cloth diapers. This machine washes the clothes well enough to prevent excess detergent irritating your baby’s skin.
• Movement Monitor – These mattresses are designed to prevent SIDS by alarming if by sensing baby’s breathing and movement.
• Task Reminder– If you’re rather forgetful a baby task reminder is like an electronic diary. It will record the last time baby fed, slept had a diaper change and more.
• Video monitor – If a sound monitor isn’t enough then you can choose a video option. That way you can see exactly what your baby is up to without disturbing them.

Play

Play is important for baby to learn. There are no essentials on this list as you don’t need any specialist toys to play with a baby. Everyday items can be used to entertain your little one. So let’s start with toys that would be nice to have.

Wants

• Activity Center– Stimulate your baby’s senses with bright colors, sounds and various textures.
• Baby Jumper– Help you baby develop their leg muscles with this fun playtime. Your baby will love to jump around and play.
• Baby Floor Lounger – A soft and sculpted pillow or bean bag for baby to rest on.
• Books – Essential for learning in life. Spark baby’s imagination from an early age with lots of fun stories. Regular story time gives you time to bond with baby.
• Bouncer – Baby can sit safely whilst you go about you daily tasks. This is also a great place for quick naps during the day.
• Floor Seat – Help strengthen your babies back muscles when they to the rolling over stage. These are ideal for traveling with baby.
• Play Mat – Baby can get lots of tummy time on a play mat to prevent them developing flat heat. They will love to reach and roll around and strengthen their core muscles.
• Toys – There are too many baby toys for us to list. You should choose toys which develop baby’s senses and dexterity.
• Walker– If you want to help baby get around and simulate walking then opt for a baby walker. It’s important to ensure your house is baby proofed enough to use these safely.

Luxury

• Baby Swing – Your baby will be instantly soothed by the rocking motion.
• Play Yard – Give your baby a safe place to play when you are busy in the house. Some play yard can be used as a travel crib or even a diaper changing unit.
• Bicycle seat – Give your baby out and about on the bike with a front seat view. Perfect if your family loves to cycle or taking on holiday.

Clothing

We haven’t included clothing on our list as most parents receive plenty of clothes from their gift givers. If you would like a basic list for you hospital bag we recommend:

• 7 x sleepsuits
• 5 x baby onesies (short sleeve or sleeveless)
• 2 x hats
• 3 x pair of socks
• 2 x scratch mitts
• 1 x jacket or pram suit

For Mom

Don’t forget about the postpartum items you’ll need. You’ won’t need as much as baby. The items on this list will really help you after baby arrives.

Recovery

Regardless of the type of birth you have your body will still have aches and pains. These products are perfect for helping your body to recover quickly so you can start to feel like yourself again.

• Abdominal binder– Can help your tummy to recover, especially if you have split your abdominal muscles during pregnancy.
• Disposable underwear– Great for both vaginal and caesarean deliveries. No need to ruin your usual underwear. These are high waisted so they won’t dig into a C-section wound.
• Donut Cushion – Take the pressure off the tenderness when sitting down. It’s also great for using if you have the occasional hemorrhoid flare up.
• Lidocaine Spray – Take the edge off the pain of a tear, episiotomy or grazes by numbing it with a little spray.
• Maternity Pads – You will bleed for a few weeks after baby is born. At first this will be like a heavy period so you’ll need heavy duty pads.
• Perineal Pads – Cooling pads are great for soothing your swollen perineum after having baby.
• Recovery Spray – A cooling mist spray can be used to reduce the heat and redness cause by swelling.
• Sitz Bath – This provides a warm shallow bath for you tender lady bits after delivery. Use it for hygiene and pain relief.
• Stool Softeners – Reduce the fear of opening your bowels post-delivery. As tool softener will prevent constipation or straining.

Nursing

Breastfeeding your baby is natural, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make the process a lot easier. These products will go a long way toward improving the experience for you.

• Breast Pads – Soak up any leaking breast milk and save your clothes with absorbent breast pads. Choose from either disposable or washable pads.
• Drinks – Breastfeeding makes you very thirsty. A good supply of drinks such as Gatorade will help you keep refreshed during a feed.
• Nipple Cream – For those times when your nipples are tender r cracked. Soothe them back to health.
• Nursing Bra – Essential for breastfeeding when out an about. Designed to clip down without having to Houdini out of your bra.
• Nursing Tops– Allows for discreet feeding without showing too much flesh.
• Thermal Therapy Pads – Heat them up to improve your milk let down. Cool them to reduce the pain of engorgement.

Free printable

I hope you found this list useful. You can print off the full list with this handy checklist. Click the image below to download your free PDF copy.

The post What to Put On a Baby Registry – The Ultimate Checklist appeared first on Stork Mama.

Pin For Later

There is a lot of choice available both in-store and online. We’ve researched what’s available and created this handy guide to baby registries. In this guide we’ll discuss:

• Top 6 Baby Registries
• Choosing a Baby Registry
• Advantages of Gift Registries
• Pitfalls of a Baby Registry

First let start with our reviews of the most popular baby registries.

Where to Register for Baby Gifts – Top 6

1. Amazon Baby Registry

Benefits

• Selections – Largest selection with ability with universal registry
• Discounts – Completion discounts and additional coupons for amazon family and prime members
• Return – Generous 90 day free return policy
• Extras – Prime Members receive a baby welcome box

The Amazon baby registry is the most popular among new moms. It’s our number one choice purely because of the great benefits.

You probably already know that Amazon sells almost every product known to man. This means that your selection is virtually endless. What’s even better is that their baby registry is actually universal. That means that you can add any item from any online store to your list. All items purchase through the registry include free shipping and free returns up to 90 days.

You will also receive discount on products from selected categories. Regular members will get 10% off and Amazon Family Members will get 15% off. The maximum order total is $5000, which can save you up to $750. Plus Amazon tend to run discount deals throughout the month so you can ultimately save a lot.

Prime Members get the best deals with lots of extras. This includes a free ‘Welcome Box’ with lots of baby goodies worth around $55. This gives you that chance to try out brands you normally wouldn’t without it costing you. Prime membership also makes you privy to various discount coupons including 20% off diaper subscriptions.

The only downside we found was that it’s completely online. This isn’t great for those who like to purchase in person. Plus it may make it harder for the less tech savvy family or friends to use the list. Although you can print off a copy to give to them.

To start your own Amazon Baby Registry click here.

2. Babies ‘R’ Us

Benefits

• Selection – Hugh baby retailer with great selection of large items
• Cash Back – Receive money back on any purchases made from your list
• Discounts – Initial completion discount for creating a registry
• Returns – Best returns policy of all the registries

Babies R Us are one of the best known baby stores, so it no surprise they come a close second place.

You receive a 10% discount coupon when you sign up for this registry. This can only be used once on items from your registry. We would recommend using it for the largest purchase you intend to make for baby. Babies are us stores have a great selection of big items such as cribs or strollers.

They also run a cash back system on all purchase made from your list. You get up to 10% of the purchase price, even those made by friends and family. The first $300 will get you 5% and anything over nets you 10% cashback. So if the total spend from your registry is $1500 you’ll get $135 back. This is emailed as an e-gift card around 12 weeks after your babies due date. The voucher can be used in store or online for both babies r us and toys r us.

The Babies R Us registry scores best for their generous returns policy. They give you up to a year to return any items purchased from your list. Although you will receive store credit for any returns rather than cash.

If you are finding the prices a bit on the high side Babies are us offer a price match. You can use it with any printed ad or online store which sell the same item for less. The price match guarantee is only available for in store purchases and not online.

To start your own Babies R Us Registry click here.

3. Target

Benefits

• Discount – Discounted rates to complete your list and on selected items
• Shipping – Free shipping over $25 or collect for free in store
• Returns – Generous 1 year return policy
• Perks – Gift bag of sample baby products and additional coupons

The great thing about registering at Target is that it’s so convenient. With over 1800 stores you more than likely have one near you. If you don’t then their registry can be easily accessed online. In fact the online choice is a lot more extensive than in-store. This make it easier for free in-store collection if your order doesn’t quite reach the $25 for free home delivery.

Everyone who starts a target baby registry will receive a complementary goody bag to collect in store. This includes free samples, even full sized ones, and around $60 of coupons. Plus around 8 weeks before your due sat Target will send an additional 15% off voucher. You can use this online and in-store, however its one time use only on products already on your registry list.

A huge win for the Target Registry is their returns policy. You have up to a year after your baby shower to return or exchange items from your registry. You can return both online and in-store. Moms who have used this feature report returns are hassle free and simple to do.

Click here to get started with your own Target Baby Registry.

4. Walmart

Benefits

• Convenience – Add items in-store and online
• Mobile App – Browse and scan bar codes of in-store items
• Selection –  Huge selection of branded items for discount prices

The Walmart Baby Registry is a basic, no frills option. Since Walmart is the biggest discount retailer in the US you’ll find all the big brands here. You can browse their huge selection both in store and online.

The registry app is a great feature for easy use. You can browse conveniently at any time anywhere you want. Plus you can scan bar code of in store items and quickly add them to your list.
They offer free shipping over $50 or free in store collection. The returns policy is a standard 90 day returns of new and unopened goods.

The biggest downside to this registry is that it doesn’t offer any discount codes for starting a registry. You can however sign up to the Walmart Baby box. This allows you to get free baby product samples roughly every 3 months, however you do need to pay $5 shipping.

Start your own Walmart Baby Registry by clicking here.

5. Buy Buy Baby

Benefits

• Coupons – Receive completion coupons, friend referral discounts
• Goody Bag –  Complementary baby sample and coupons box
• Consultation – In store registry consultation to help you find what you need
• Perks – Use sister site Bed Bath and beyond coupons

The Buy Buy Baby registry offers great selection and customer service. You can shop both online or in store with a free registry consultation service. If you hate being pushy sales talk then we recommend avoiding this and browsing yourself.

When you register for baby gifts you will receive a goody bag. The contents are pretty good with some full size items, magazines and useful coupons for money off. You can also use coupons from their sister site Bed Bath and Beyond. This will save a lot of money as they regularly send out 20% off coupons. The will also let you combine coupons for one purchase.

If there are item you haven’t received from your list you’ll receive two completion coupons. One is for 15% off in store use and the other for 10% off online. You should receive these around 2 weeks before your due date. The returns policy is a standard 90 day cut off. A huge bonus is that they will even refund if you don’t have a gift receipt.

The downside to Buy Buy Baby is that stores are not as widespread as Babies R Us, Target or Walmart. Keep this in mind if you have relatives or friend who will be shopping in store.

Get started with your Buy Buy Baby Registry Here.

6. Diapers.com

Benefits

• Discounts – Receive complete codes and additional coupons for friend and family to use.
• Diaper Subscription – Gift Givers can donate credits for money off future diaper purchases.
• Shipping & Returns – Completely free no matter how much you order with 1 year to do it.
• Cashback – The more you spend the more your receive back in gift vouchers.

Diapers.com offers a great registry for online purchases. It’s similar to Amazon but with only baby products to choose from. If you love coupons and saving then this is the registry for you.

Similar to the other registries it comes with a 10% off completion discount. You get this around 6 weeks before baby arrives so everything is there in time for their arrival. We love that 2 weeks after you open the registry they give you a 15% voucher for family and friends to use. Not just one It’s one voucher code per address so you can even use it yourself for additional savings.

We love the very handy ‘dollar for diapers’ feature. This allows gift givers to add a few extra dollar to their purchase diaper credits. These credits can be used to buy disposable or cloth diapers, with discounts off. New parents spend around $500 per year on diapers, and it really helps cut down costs for your household.

Oh but the saving don’t end there! In addition to these fab discounts, the also run a cashback system. If you total purchases up to $500 you will receive 5% cashback to spend online. Then once that reaches $1000 you get 10% back.

This registry is the only one which offer free shipping for any purchases. Plus there return policy is a very generous 1 year cut off. Returns are free by using pre-paid printed labels.

Get started with your own Diaper.com baby registry by clicking here.

Choosing a Baby Registry

The Registries above are only 6 of the most popular to choose from. There are so many more, which can make it difficult to know where to register for baby items. Keep reading for some selection criteria you can measure a registry against to know if it’s right for you.

Selection

A registry with a large selection has many benefits. It will allow you to add all the essentials as well as non-essentials. Having a large selection for gift givers usually introduces a variety of prices. Some people may be on a tight budget or may want to splurge. It also give you a lot of choice should you need to return or exchange any items. Some online registry such as Amazon, allow you to add items from any website.

Discount

Most of the top registries will offer discounts off products from your list. The way they are offered will vary from completion coupons, cashback on purchase to friend and family discounts. Usually these discounts can only be used for a once off purchase, so keep them for those big ticket items. These coupons can save you hundreds of dollars especially if you are first time parents.

Shipping

Costs can add up if you have to pay for shipping as well as the item. Most programs will offer free shipping over a certain amount. Also most programs with stores will allow you to buy online and collect in store.

Returns

This can make or break a registry for you. Parents often end up with multiples of items or need to exchange. Check how long you have to return the item. Usually baby registries give a generous 90 day or even a whole year. Read the small print so you know what you can return. Some stores will accept opened goods whilst others will only refund in new condition.

Convenience

You should probably pick a registry which has a store close to you. That way you have the option of shopping in store and online. Some store also offer personal shoppers to help you choose items. Another handy feature is registries with apps which allow you to add items to your list by scanning in store. Remember not all your gift givers will want to buy online, so make sure your list is easy to access and convenient for friends and family.

Freebies

Not a deal breaker but a nice touch. Some registries will offer you a goody bag full of samples and money off coupons. These are really handy to try out items without spending money. If you are a member of other loyalty program you often get additional gifts or features with your registry.

Customer Service

Check out what customer service they offer and is it registry specific? Good customer service will answer you questions promptly and sort out any issues you may have. The way you contact them is important. Do you need to call, email, web chat or go in-store. Consider if it will cost money for you to contact customer services.

Top Tip

If you find yourself unable to decide between two, why not register for both? That way you will get the benefits of each and improve the selection for gift givers.

Advantages of Baby Registries

We highly recommend a baby registry if you want some control over your gifts for baby. Check out the main benefits of a baby registry.

Inspire Gift Givers – Family and friends love to give baby gifts. A registry gives them an idea of exactly what you want and reduce the number of random gift cards form the uninspired.

Prevent Duplicates – If people follow your list then you minimize getting too much of the same item and then having to return or exchange.

Reduce Unwanted Gifts – You may want a really specific item or simply avoid people wasting money on unwanted items. Having a registry can direct them toward useful gifts for your baby and get the exact item you want.

First Time Parents – Buying for you first baby can be really costly as you’ll need pretty much everything. You don’t need to go overboard but a good crib, pushchair or breast pump can be used for future children.

Better Returns – Gifts registries usually offer better returns policies compared to buying without. Extended and hassle free returns are a god send if especially if you get a lot of duplicates.

Get Essentials – If your quite minimalist you can you use registry to ask for the essentials rather than the extra. Start with the basics baby needs: eating, sleeping, diapering. A really practical baby gift is a diaper subscription service and will save you so much money of the years.

Pitfall of a Baby Registry

High End Items

Make sure you have a huge range of items to suit all budgets. Some people may want to give a gift but don’t have a lot to spend. Having too many high ticket items will push people to buy off list.

Lack of Surprise

If you prefer the surprise of gifts, or don’t mind friends and family having free reign then skip the registry for non-essentials. We would recommend having a registry for the basics and offering this to people who would like gift ideas.

Expecting Everyone to Use it

Not all your gift givers will use your baby registry. Whatever the reason don’t force them to use it or appear ungrateful off list gifts. Pushing your baby registry onto people can make you appear greedy. Inform friends and family you have one and leave it up to them as whether they use it or not.

The post Where to Register for Baby Gifts Online: Beginner’s Guide appeared first on Stork Mama.