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Archive for November, 2009

Buying Unisex Baby Clothes

November 3rd, 2009 admin No comments

If you have decided to keep your baby’s gender a surprise, you may want to consider purchasing unisex baby clothes in order to prepare for the arrival of your little one. Unisex baby clothes are a great way to enjoy being surprised on the day of your baby’s birth while still being able to prepare as much as possible.

When shopping for baby clothes or preparing your baby registry, you have probably discovered that most stores and clothing lines seem to cater to baby girls. It can be a bit challenging to find suitable unisex baby clothes. When choosing clothes that can be worn by both genders, find outfits in appropriate colors. Yellow, white, tan, and light green are all great unsex choices. When it comes to style and prints, there are a myriad of options to choose from. Keep in mind that you need to stay away from gender specific prints such as trucks, cars, princesses, or bows. Try to find animal prints or clothing with shapes, stripes, and letters.

When purchasing or registering for clothing for your baby, be sure to cover the essentials. These essentials are necessary whether you are having a boy or a girl. You will need several baby hats. It is important that newborn babies stay warm and the majority of heat is lost through the top of the head. Onesies are a practical and useful necessity. They can be worn alone if the weather is warm or under outfits to keep the baby’s back and torso warm in cold weather. In cooler weather, footed sleepers are another great item to have. Baby’s legs and feet will stay warm without you constantly dealing with lost and falling off socks. Other important purchases when looking for unisex baby clothes are bibs, socks, jumpers, blankets, t-shirts, pants, and burp cloths.

If you have registered for all of the essentials and would like to purchase other types of unisex baby clothes for your little one, consider gender-neutral blue jeans. Blue jeans may not be practical for baby to wear on a daily basis but they are a very cute and versatile when taking baby out or having visitors to your home. Baby shoes, overalls, sweaters, and jackets are also non-essential but fun items to dress your baby in. Just remember to stick with unisex colors and prints.

Unisex baby clothes can also be practical if you are planning to have more than one child.  Even if you know that you are pregnant with a girl, purchasing unisex baby clothes means that you will definitely be able to reuse the clothing for your next baby. This can be especially useful and cost effective for items such as snowsuits, blankets, and bedding.

If cost is a concern for you, consider buying used unisex baby clothing. Used baby clothing can be found in consignment shops and online auctions. You may also want to check out your newspaper to find local garage and yard sales. People with older children are often eager to unload bags and boxes of newborn and baby clothing for very reasonable prices. You can ask friends with older children if you can borrow baby clothing.

Functionality at its Finest: The Mountain Buggy Urban

November 3rd, 2009 admin No comments

The Mountain Buggy Urban has taken New Zealand by storm, and the rest of the world with it. Coming in a variety of styles and colors, the stroller is professed by Mountain Buggy to be practical, safe, and stylish, which the reviews of moms and dads, alike, confirm.

Available in single-, double-, or even triple-seat models, the Mountain Buggy Urban will comfortably seat however many little ones you need to protect. The seat itself is hammock-like, allowing easy lateral movement and promoting healthy posture. The seatback is padded and reclines almost horizontally, so that an afternoon outing and a nap may happen at the same time. The Urban can also convert from an all-purpose stroller into a pram and even an infant car-seat carrier, with the simple addition of either Mountain Buggy’s Single Carrycot, or a multi-car seat adapter, respectively. Last, the soft woven straps that harness your child into her seat adjust as your child grows into toddler hood.

Your child will not be the only one enjoying the ergonomic design of the Mountain Buggy Urban. The soft-grip handle adjusts to different heights, accommodating various caregivers. You will even find a water-bottle holder, and under the seat, a large-capacity storage compartment, which can hold a diaper bag and other essentials. If you chose the Urban Elite, your Mountain Buggy will even come fully equipped with its own diaper bag.

For the city-dweller and off-roader, the Urban is designed with maneuverability in mind. The air-filled 12″ tires are essentially shock absorbers. The stroller’s materials also help make the Urban multi-terrain and multi-weather, as the fabric is UV and water resistant, and the frame is made of lightweight, rust-resistant aluminum tubing. A removable storm cover protects your child from the elements, while a small window in the sun hood allows you to check on her without leaving your spot.

Storing, transporting, and even shipping the Mountain Buggy Urban is also made simple and safe. It is easily collapsible and even has a contractible axel, so that you may use space efficiently. You will find that it unlocks and unfolds with a single lever locking mechanism, which is a feature common to and popular in all Mountain Buggies. The front wheels swivel 360-degrees, making rounding a corner as simple as moving forward. However, you can adjust the rotation on the front wheel or wheels, so that the stroller is safe and in control at all times. The foot-operated brake is located near the back right wheel, allowing you safely to come to a halt on any incline. A safety strap will give you that extra assurance that your loved one is safely connected to you.

Deemed a Mumsnet “best,” the Mountain Buggy Urban is a consumer favorite and an industry pick. Designed to adjust as a child grows form infancy to toddler hood, the Urban may be the first and last stroller you ever need to purchase. Who could pass up such simplicity?

What is a Pram Stroller?

November 3rd, 2009 admin No comments

You are searching for just the right stroller for you and your baby. A friend mentioned a pram stroller. Not sure exactly what a pram is? The pram stroller resembles a bassinet except it has very tall wheels that are large in size. It is also known as a baby carriage. The pram is made so that the baby is facing you as you walk. It has a canopy to protect the baby from the sun as you stroll. These strollers do not offer the modern day versatility of other stroller types, but some consider the pram stroller to be very elegant.

Some parents like the pram stroller but traditional prams are for infants only because the baby must lie flat. In addition, this means that the parent has to buy a new stroller in a few months as the baby outgrows the traditional pram. Fortunately, there are modern prams that are convertible. Once the child gets too large to lie flat, you can switch it to an upright stroller.

The original pram stroller was created in the 1700s. A garden architect by the name of William Kent created a basket shaped like a shell and put wheels on it so children would be able to sit and ride in it. The carriage needed to be pulled by a goat or other small animal. Back then, these were like creations of art. Mainly the materials used were wicker or wood and had brass joints, which were quite expensive then. It was not unheard of for models to have names of royalty. Pram stroller models had names such as Duchess, Princess, Windsor, and Balmoral. Queen Victoria even purchased a few during the 1800s.

Long since then, manufacturers of the pram stroller have introduced features that make for a smoother ride for the baby. They are also more user friendly for the person pushing the stroller. They are built with more safety standards and have additional accessories such as diaper bags that can attach. Prams generally have big canopy tops and curtains that give extra shielding from the sun. Most modern prams fold making it easier to transport than the traditional prams. Recently celebrity moms, like Sarah Jessica Parker, have been seen pushing their babies in and around Hollywood in prams. It seems to be fashionable.

The pram stroller usually works well for the city or suburban lifestyle because of the more even sidewalks. Mothers can easily go for a stroll in the park or other area with ease. They may not be the best option if your terrain is a more rural setting with less pavement and level sidewalks. Their lack of maneuverability does not typically work in that type of setting. A pram stroller can have a price tag of $200 to well over $1,000. This makes the pram an elegant addition to a family’s baby setting. Mothers like the fact that they can watch their baby while they walk or if they stop and park. That is the pram stroller’s best feature.

Fun with Personalized Diaper Bags!

November 3rd, 2009 admin No comments

Here is something revolutionary for new moms and dads: personalized diaper bags. Yes, diaper bags – with personalized names in handsome custom embroidery. As new parents, it is a given that you have already entered the world of baby things – an endless stream of strollers, cribs, tiny socks…and, of course, diapers. In addition, with the diaper comes the ubiquitous diaper bag.

personalized diaper bagsLet’s face it: there is not a whole lot that is fun about nappies. In addition, lugging a diaper bag loaded with pampers, wipes, creams, powder, and all the rest can seem like an unfortunate necessity. Can you say, pack horse? However, by adding personalization, you can turn a necessary item into a fun accessory. You choose the style bag, and the personalization, to express your own personal style. With chic style, who knows whether that bag you are toting is a diaper bag, or a stylish messenger bag!

A quick search on the Internet reveals many interesting and affordable personalized diaper bags. We Googled personalized diaper bags and found, to our surprise, over half a million hits!

Here are some we found particularly interesting. Diaper Bag Boutique, www.DiaperBagBoutique.com, offers a great remedy for the pack horse syndrome. Many of their diaper bags look nothing like diaper bags; rather, they look like serious purses, weekend bags, and style-conscious messenger bags. Our favorite is their Diaper Dude Faux Suede with Flap Diaper bag that features zipper pockets and an adjustable over-the-shoulder strap. The regular price of $147 is discounted to just $99.95 online, and shipping is free. Diaper Bag Boutique even offers diaper bags for dad. We think that if you are man enough to make a baby, you should be man enough to haul around any diaper bag mom chooses. Nevertheless, if you are the sensitive type, perhaps mom will choose a “man bag” that will not bruise your ego.

The Shopping Boutique, www.TheShoppingBoutique.com, is another excellent source for personalized diaper bags. Their slogan, “Find the diaper bag that reflects your style” is a good clue to their philosophy and their selection: there is LOTS to choose from. Their Black Central Park Toile Pink Accents Monogrammed Diaper Bag caught our attention. There is something retro going on here; something 1950’s chic with layers of pink rickrack and black grosgrain ribbon with pink and white polka dots. There is even a very feminine pink bow sewn on. Six pockets made of toile hold everything Junior needs. At $80 plus shipping, it is a good value. Personalized embroidery is available in several styles.

The Shopping Boutique offers a line of children’s bags. This raises interesting possibilities. Perhaps an older brother or sister can be pressed into service hauling baby’s things.

Last, here is a point to ponder. When you embroider Junior’s diaper bag, what words should be embroidered? The first inclination will be Junior’s name, of course. However, do you want to put baby on a first-name basis with strangers? In addition, if you embroider “Andy,” what happens when little “Angela” comes along? Some suggestions: you might consider the one-word-fits-all “Baby,” or the tongue-in-cheek, “Who’s Your Daddy?” Diapers are a dirty business but personalized diaper bags can be downright fun!

The Perfect Gift: Personalized Baby Blankets

November 3rd, 2009 admin No comments

Personalized baby blankets are the hottest item in baby presents! They are the perfect present because each one is so unique. Parents are so thrilled when they receive them as gifts. Parents are even trying to ensure that they get one or multiple personalized baby blankets by registering with multiple stores! That should give you an indication of how high they are on the baby gifting hierarchy.

personalized baby blanketsPersonalization is such a nice gesture when selecting a present. Parents are usually so happy and stunned when they open it and see their baby boy’s or baby girl’s name on it! Any other added details are just icing on the cake! It adds a nice effect to the personalized baby blanket. Many know their blanket as “blankee” out of affection. As they are handed down, anyone will always know whom the blankee originally belonged to because of the personalization. There is never a wrong turn with a personalized baby blanket.

Personalization shows that the giver put a lot of thought into the gift. This is not an item you just suddenly picked up. Parents turn these particular blankets into family heirlooms. They last long past when the child has become an adult. Personalized baby blankets can be ordered in various shapes, sizes, colors, and types. You can choose your lettering style and whether you add the baby’s name on the blanket only or include the arrival date and time.

The size of the blanket that you choose will determine how much you are able to personalize it. Some are quite small and do not have room for more than roughly twelve characters. There are other sizes that are large enough to allow for thirty characters and up. A little research will give you some insight into just what the personalized baby blanket should look like that you order. Double check the spelling of the baby’s name and verify the birth date before you add it to the personalized baby blanket.

It is truly important that you know what fabric that the personalized baby blanket is made of. Not all fabrics will be suitable for a baby’s skin so you will need to know this information. Whether via online or store, ensure that you have checked the materials list. There is an abundant selection that may floor you. As far as fabrics, cotton is top of the list but there are special blankets done in crochet styles and knits.  Before you purchase any baby item, check with the parents for any known allergies. You want your personalized baby blanket to be treasured for years to come.

Maybe you still have not made up your mind about personalized baby blankets. Whichever way you decide to go as far as gifts, put in your research. Babies are quite fragile and you must make every effort to know that you are giving a safe product. Go online and search for product recalls. This will give you the confidence that you are giving a beautiful personalized baby blanket that is also safe and can be treasured for generations to come.

Make Your Life Easy with a Double Umbrella Stroller

November 3rd, 2009 admin No comments

The birth of twins is a double joy for parents. However when it comes to taking them to the park or shopping mall it can be inconvenient to push two strollers. Therefore, the double umbrella stroller is ideal to transport twins. You can even take multiple age children in such strollers.

The advantages of a double umbrella stroller are many. The umbrella offers protection against the elements. You can handle two children all by yourself. The delight of traveling in a stroller will keep your toddlers from running around a busy shopping mall. As most of them come with adjustable seats, you can use them for a long time. It will steer as if it were a single stroller and you can carry on with your work with no trouble from your children. When not in use, they will fold as neatly and as compact as single strollers. Therefore, you do not have to worry about storing them in your car or carrying them around.

Most of these double strollers come in side-by-side models. Some mothers might find pushing such a wide stroller difficult. They can try the tandem umbrella stroller if they do not mind the length. For children of different ages one can consider the one sit and one stand models. This will distribute the differing weights of the children more evenly. This will also make it easier for the parents to push the stroller. The tandem and the sit and stand models are more durable than the side-by-side models. They are also more expensive.

Choose one that is compact and can be easily folded. That way it will take up less space while traveling in a vehicle. The stroller has to be light enough for easy maneuverability. You might have to tackle grassy terrains or pavement with two children sitting in the stroller. Look out for storage space underneath the seats. So taking your children’s food, diapers, and toys will not be a problem. Choose ones, which have padded supported seats backs, which will keep the children comfortably reclined. Also, make sure that the handles are also padded so that they will not hurt you while pushing. A feature to look out for will be the self-standing ability of the stroller when folded.

Double strollers will be bulkier than single ones. So keep in mind a few safety tips while going out with your children. Never hang your shopping on the handles. This might upset the balance and make it difficult for you to push. Put the shopping in the storage space under the seats.  Remember to use the brakes when you are standing still such as when paying bills or window shopping.  Always make sure that the safety harness is secured.

Double umbrella strollers are the best when it comes to overworked mothers who have to keep an eye on more than one child. It gives mothers an independence and confidence to handle the children on their own. Take it everywhere with you. Just fold it and let it lie in a corner of your car so that you will always be prepared.

Looking for a Great Baby Product?

November 3rd, 2009 admin No comments

If you are looking to buy a baby product, consider a baby blanket. Baby blankets are usually treated like family heirlooms. Many people refer to them as “blankees.” This baby product comes in various styles. They make great gifts because you can customize them. Baby blankets are keepsakes and are passed down through the family. Grandparents will give their grandchild the baby blanket that belonged to their mother or father. This is a baby product that is special.

Pay attention to the fabric when you start looking at baby blankets. A baby’s skin is very delicate; it is important to read the material used in making each baby blanket. You can choose to shop online or in an ordinary store. No matter where you do your shopping, read the label for the materials content. It can be shocking the various selections that are available. Many baby blankets are knitted or crocheted but there are still plenty made from cotton. Before you buy a “blankee,” check with the parents that the little one does not have any allergies. That will keep you from getting one that cannot be enjoyed.

Baby pacifiers are high on the baby product hierarchy, too.  You probably called yours a “binkie!” Pacifiers are not usually handed down in a traditional way such as the baby blanket. It is typical for babies to have a strong sucking urge. Babies have been caught on their sonogram photos with fingers or a thumb in their mouth! Therefore, it is highly unlikely that their need for that comfort will go away. For most parents their baby’s pacifier is a necessity. Sucking is soothing and creates a feeling of comfort for babies. When a baby starts to cry, usually parents will go for the pacifier.

Babies can be rather addicted to this baby product. Pacifiers are simplistic as there is a nipple piece that is rubber or silicone, a hard plastic mouth protector, and a movable handle. The pacifiers are made so that it is not easy for the baby to choke from it. Babies can be finicky and may not like a particular pacifier. Sometimes it could be the shape of the nipple, so testing a different baby product may be needed.

It is common to customize baby blankets and sometimes baby pacifiers. If you are giving either baby product as a gift, this is a nice addition. You can create a special moment by having the parents open the gift and then see baby’s name on it! It adds a special something to blankets. The blanket will always be given with that name on it showing whom it belonged to. Because babies simply spit pacifiers out when they no longer want them, customizing is great for them. There is always appreciation in personalized touches.

Make sure you do some research no matter what baby product you decide to give. You do not want to find out that you gave a baby product that was unsafe. The best way to prevent this is to search for baby product recalls.

Baby Girl Gifts: What Should You Give?

November 3rd, 2009 admin No comments

Baby girl gifts are almost always in pink but there are a myriad of baby gifts to choose from. From boxes to playthings to trinkets to clothes and bed sheets -the gift giver is sure to have a hard time choosing which gift to give. Diapers, baby bath items, baby bottles and other baby utensils are popular choices for baby girl gifts since these gifts are very useful. The new parents of that little bundle of joy will surely appreciate such gifts.

However, with the advancement of technology, other gifts such as your baby’s own website are recommended by the techno savvy as one of the best baby girl gifts. A personal website for your newborn baby girl can be designed for posting photos and notes for everyone to see. Giving baby girl gifts need to be thought through. One thing to consider is if the parents will like it and if the baby can actually use it.

Infants are fragile and that is something that needs to be taken into consideration so giving blankets or pillows that are hypoallergenic are advised. According to the American Baby Group, factors that gift-givers look at include the quality of the item along with the brand. Practicality is also a factor while some rely on professional advice on which baby gifts are the best.

Since taking care of a newborn child is a challenge both financially and emotionally, moms and expectant moms spend a lot of their time budgeting by using vouchers for baby items. So for the practical gift-giver, get a voucher for baby girl gifts -this will surely make new moms and dads happy.

For other gift ideas, get a diaper cake. Babies need diapers and at the prices of diapers these days, the new parents will surely thank you for giving your gift a lot of thought. For those who want to give toys to the new bundle of joy, choose ones that make sounds when shaken because babies respond to what they hear and helps babies develop their senses as well. Clothes are of course another popular choice for baby girl gifts -they are actually more popular than toys. For the frugal, get socks or stockings for the baby. Ballerina skirts or tutus are both cute and inexpensive but for a more practical choice, get shoes, coats and overalls.

Bodysuits are one of the best baby girl gifts -they are easy to clean and are soft and comfortable as well. Bodysuits for babies are the most important garment for the new baby girl because bodysuits protect infants from cold weather. There are myriad of color choices, get a pair or maybe more, coupled with a lot of love for a perfect baby gift.

Baby girl gifts do not need to be outrageously priced. As long as they are useful and safe, they will get an A++ from the parents. It is the thought that counts as they say but be sure to give it a lot of thought on what to give. Enjoy wrapping those baby girl gifts!