Budget Baby Layettes

by Kirsten Hawkins

Getting what you need for your newborn without going broke

It's been said time and again that babies cost a pretty penny. Although little Brad or Jennifer won't hop out of the birth canal and start demanding servants and expensive electronic gadgets, they do represent some additional expenses that can be wallet-draining when considered all at once. Fortunately the expenses do not have to be incurred all at once - even an unplanned pregnancy allots nine months to plan and gradually deal with the expenses associated with procreation. There are several steps that expectant parents can take to help cut down on some of the major expenses that are expected.

Baby Showers

A baby shower is a time honored tradition in which expectant mothers get a bunch of free stuff from their friends and family members. Don't be afraid or ashamed to take advantage of this situation. A decent shower can often cover most of the immediate baby layette needs. Usually someone will offer to hold a shower for the expectant mom, but she shouldn't be afraid to drop hints to close friends and family or even come right out and ask for a shower.

Buy Diapers in Advance

When is the best time to start buying diapers and other such essentials? The moment after conception would be ideal, but since most women don't know that they're expecting until weeks or even months later, you may have to settle for "as soon as you find out." Start adding diapers to your regular shopping list and try to pick up one or two packages each week. Varying between size one and two is a good idea, with perhaps a pack or two of the newborn size. If you have a bigger baby you don't want to be stuck with lots of newborn size diapers that you'll never use. If the baby is "normal" size it is easy to buy newborn sizes while you need them and rest easy in the knowledge that you're already stocked up on the next sizes up. A lower cost alternative to this is to use a cloth diaper service if you can find one still in operation in your area.

Get Help & Buy Used Whenever Possible

For large baby needs like cribs, playpens, and strollers, try and get the help of family members with these purchases. Proud grandparents to be are usually more than happy to help with items like these. A lot of money can be saved by purchasing these items second-hand as well. If a used crib, stroller, or playpen is in good condition, there is no reason not to buy it over a new one. The only item you probably don't want to buy used is a car seat. These items must meet safety requirements and there is no way to be sure that a used one measures up to current standards.

A little planning and thinking ahead is all it takes to save serious money on most of your initial and ongoing baby needs. They real key to setting up your baby layette on a budget is to start as soon as possible.

How to Choose a Diaper Bag

by Jackie G. Maxwell

Even though it's a popular shower gift, you may want to choose a specific type of diaper bag, either because you've learned through experience what works and what doesn't, or your friends and relatives have given you tips on what to look for or avoid.

It's pretty elementary to figure that you're going to need room. Lots and lots of room. For little things, babies at times seem to need an endless supply of items that you may not have space to carry.

When looking for a diaper bag, space is going to be your first consideration, but that doesn't mean you have to totally give up the stylish or "designer" look. Remember though, that the character-theme or licensed diaper bags often cost more simply for the name. But if you are really taken with a delightful character diaper bag, and just have to have it, put it aside for occasions when its capacity is appropriate. These are often smaller bags, but will still hold some spare diapers, an extra soother, bottle, and baby wipes for short trips like doctor visits, or errands.

For an afternoon at someone else's house, or an extended day of errands, and even an overnight trip, you're looking at a really large bag. And few items designated as diaper bags, seem to measure up to mothers' needs and expectations. There simply aren't enough pockets to keep things totally organized for longer trips where more items are needed.

Some parents solve that dilemma by purchasing duffle bags, or a top of the line backpack. The duffle bags will have some outside pockets, and occasionally, zippered inside pockets as well, along with plenty of interior room for changes of clothes and other supplies.

Backpacks with outside and inside pockets can be very handy for both organization, and convenience. They can be worn over the shoulders, freeing up your hands, or some come with an alternative strap for carrying on one shoulder.

The key is to choose a diaper bag that suits your needs, as you see them. And if necessary, choose two! That way, you have convenience, space, and no worry about whether your one bag is going to do fore very occasion.

Are Baby Blankets Dangerous?

by Michael Barrows

Baby blankets - beautiful, soft, cuddly, warm and comforting. Yes all of these - but also possibly deadly. This may sound alarming, but its true. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), studies have shown that up to one-third of the babies who die from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) each year might actually have suffocated after being placed on soft bedding. Other information indicates that babies are at increased risk for SIDS if their heads get covered by soft bedding while they sleep; babies have been found dead with their heads covered by the bedding, even while they were sleeping on their backs.

I'm sorry if this sounds really frightening. But don't worry! - new parents are constantly fed a diet of very alarming statistics on child-rearing, that can make them begin to get really paranoid, but in fact its usually not as bad as it sounds - actually much of it is common sense. In this case, baby blankets and baby bedding are really perfectly safe if you just follow a few sensible recommendations, as laid down in 1999 by the American Academy of Paediatrics (AAP) and the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD).

1. For babies less than one year old, make sure they sleep on their backs in a crib with a firm, tight-fitting mattress. Get rid of all soft bedding such as quilts, pillows, and assorted stuffed toys and soft products. It always looks lovely to have a crib full of soft toys and cushions, but it is potentially deadly.

2. Use baby clothes designed for sleeping in instead of a blanket.

3. If you do use a blanket, select a thin one. Place your baby so the feet can reach the foot of the crib and then tuck in the blanket or sheet around the crib mattress only as far up as your baby's chest. Ensure the head remains uncovered while sleeping.

Major retailers and the CPSC have been working together for several years to promote these safe practices, so all you have to do is follow the guidelines and you - and your baby - should be fine. As babies get older it's perfectly fine to start using heavier baby blankets and lots of other lovely baby bedding, so don't be afraid!

But what is the best type of baby bedding? Well it's the one that guarantees maximum baby bedding safety, warmth and coziness to your baby. The best fabric to use is 100 percent cotton, or some other type of natural fibre, but any fabric which is a soft material and - most essential - non-toxic. There are many types of bedding top choose from nowadays that are soft, smooth, and pleasant smelling with attractive and eye pleasing colors.

Remember, baby blankets come in many types, including quilts, duvets, and comforters. They also have different thicknesses construction and fill material. There are lots of choices available, but whatever choice you make, the first choice is safety.

Hugs N Kisses Children's Boutique

by Dorian Jones

Lipstik If you have a little girl, you will absolutely love clothing by Lipstik. This trendy designer clothing line is geared towards the feminine styles that little girls love. If your child wants to feel like a princess every day, then you must browse through our collection of girls' apparel by Lipstik. This label also includes the English Roses Collection, which was developed in collaboration with Madonna, based on her book, The English Roses. We sell dresses with ruffles, capris with lace, tee shirts with beading, and a host of other adorable ensembles.

If your little girl loves anything pink, then she will delight in the Lipstik line, as many of these pieces come in vibrant shades of pink. Dresses come tiered, with layers upon layers of soft ruffles. Does your little girl feel more comfortable in pants than in skirts and dresses? Well, we sell a host of funky pant-sets that come in adorable styles that cater to a girl's sense of fun and fantasy. At www.HugsnKissesboutique.com, we believe that consumers should have access to the best children's clothing labels, without having to travel far and wide. Our online site is a work in progress, and we strive to constantly update our selections according to the latest fashions.

Lipstik is one of our most popular labels, and for good reason. The clothing is well made and durable, and the designs are whimsical and fresh. You don't have to worry about beads falling off or ribbons coming loose, as great attention is paid to detail and craftsmanship. Lipstik for Girls The English Roses collection has become a big hit, as this line of girls' apparel is both romantic and feminine. Fabric designs are soft and contain a host of flirty colors that girls tend to love. If your little girl wants to dress up every day, then Lipstik is the brand of clothing for her. Let us know if you have any trouble finding what you are looking for, and we will gladly assist you. We can be reached at 609-485-0038, should you have any questions

Reebok Jogging Strollers - Reviewed

by Anita Johnston

Everyone with the slightest interest in sports knows the name Reebok. They make everything from sports shoes to timing devices and have developed a loyal cliental from all around the world. They have recently come out with their own Reebok jogging stroller with most of the features parents have come to expect from good-quality 3-wheel strollers.

This stroller has a rear suspension system that provides a comfortable ride for your child while being easy to push over a variety of terrains. The 16" wheels are suitable for grass, sand, and gravel as well as paved surfaces. If you are serious about your jogging you should insist on a stroller with at least 16" wheels, 12" is only good for smooth surfaces.

If your child feels like sleeping while you are jogging the seat reclines all the way. It should be remembered, though, that babies under the age of 6 months should not be taken jogging, they don't have the muscle control to properly support their heads and the back and forth movement when running could be harmful.

The Reebok jogging stroller, however, could be used as a regular stroller for the first 6 months after your baby is born and then when she is ready you can start taking her with you on your jogs.

This jogger has a fleece-lined boot that keeps your child warm and protected from cold drafts. Other handy features are the cell phone pocket, the adjustable canopy, and the one-hand folding mechanism.

When fully folded the Reebok jogging stroller takes up remarkably little space. The wheels are attached with a quick-release mechanism so taking the stroller completely down is a snap. It can be stored in a closet or the trunk of your car.

The Reebok stroller has been designed so that your child sits well back from the front wheel. This is safer than allowing the feet to come near the front wheel and distributes the weight more evenly for more stability.

We are quite impressed with this stroller. Care has to be taken when assembling that the front wheel is properly aligned otherwise it may pull to one side, but otherwise this is a good choice in a moderate priced jogging stroller.

The Baby Stroller - How To Choose

by Martin Smith

You will need to begin gathering the things your baby will need, now that you got the news that you are expecting a bundle of joy. You may feel overwhelmed if this is your first baby with all the decisions that need to be made.

Deciding on the type of stroller you will use for your baby is one of the biggest decisions you will need to make. You need to determine your budget first before you begin choosing from among the many different types of strollers. The cost of strollers can range from $10 to $400 and higher.

The lower end strollers are generally the lightweight umbrella strollers. Easy folding and storage give these strollers an advantage. High prices for a stroller could indicate greater quality and better features. You should know which of the variety of features that come with strollers is important to you?

Which would you want a convertible travel system or a stroller and a car seat? A travel system has a stay in the car base, a stroller frame to which the infant carrier/ car safety seat is attached. These are wonderful especially for your newborn baby.

A play tray that has places for a bottle or juice cup come with strollers. Many strollers come with canopies that have vinyl windows to let you keep an eye on the baby. Easily applied foot brakes that are attached to both rear wheels and a wrist strap brake that can be used together are included on most strollers.

While you have the strap on it gives you extra safety while you are stopped because the stroller can't roll away. Strollers are now coming with a parent tray that fits over the handle bar as well as a large storage basket that fits under the seat(s). It has a holder for a cup of coffee or a soda, your cell phone, snack, and your keys.

Reversible handlebars that can be moved from front to rear or vice versa and are height adjustable are now on most strollers. The reversible handlebars can help you to see your baby while he rides if necessary and the height adjustable feature is a great back saver.

Next to be considered is the seat. Will the seat recline enough, if it reclines, to allow your newborn to lie almost flat? Will the seat be comfortable for your baby and well padded? Can the seat padding be removed so it can be washed? Blankets that can be attached with snaps to the seat come on most upper end strollers

Your baby's stroller becomes like a bunting on wheels with these blankets. Your baby is protected from wind and harsh sunlight with the use of these detachable rain hoods. Another twist comes with your decision about a baby stroller. You can have for free a stroller that is almost brand new from your friend. She promises to get the stroller ready for you and cleaned.

Is it a safe choice for your baby to have a used stroller? Before you place your baby in it you will need to look over some things and it could be a very good choice for you and your baby. No gaps, dents, or cracks should be found in the frame. Bolts and screws must all be in place.

If it were anything less your baby could be seriously hurt in an accident. Are there any sharp spots on the frame? Can your baby be cut by screws sticking out or are there loose screws? Is the frame and handle bar properly joined?

Do you need to look over the wheels for leaks in air pressure or are they solid?

The wheels; are they worn?

Do the wheels need replacement?

Are the wheels turning appropriately?

Are the axels crooked?

Are the brakes holding when applied and working properly?

No matter if the seat is in straight us position or reclining position, does the seat hold?

Your baby could be seriously hurt if the seat does not hold the position well. Is the seat lining fitting the frame properly and is it clean? Strollers have a variety of options, types, and styles. Multi-seated strollers are available for two children or more.

There is a variety of seating arrangements including tandem and side by seating as well as stadium seating which a variation of tandem seating where the rear seat is higher than the front allowing the second child to see more than just the back of a head.

Jogging strollers have a triangular wheelbase with one large one out in front and two in the rear. Jogging strollers also come with multiple seating. Used or new enjoy your outings with your baby or children.

Tips for Buying Baby Gear

by Lisa Koshinsky

Buying baby gear can be a frustrating experience for new parents who want to have the best for the baby, yet they still have to watch their budget. They need to buy baby furniture, such as a crib or bassinet, a change table and a playpen. Parents also like to purchase a baby swing and a stroller for taking the baby for a walk. A cheaper alternative to a stroller is a baby sling where you can carry the baby comfortably and still keep him/her nestled close to you.

Other supplies that you need include baby clothes. When you are buying for the new baby, just remember that although an outfit may look cute, you have to think about how comfortable the baby feels in it. Babies grow a lot in the first few months, so it is really a waste of money to buy a lot of outfits in newborn sizes. You are better off buying in the 3 - 6 month range at first. You will find that the baby will quickly outgrow even these. You also have to look at the material to make sure it won't shrink after the first wash.

Also buying clothes that suit either a boy or a girl is a good choice, because the chances are great, the baby will grow out of it long before it is worn out. Then you can pack it away for the next baby.

You have to decide whether you will start with a rocking bassinet or a full size crib. There are many bassinets combined with a playpen so this will save you money. Some bassinets convert into a change table and most of them are portable, making them great for travel. A crib is necessary for when the baby gets older, but for a newborn a bassinet is a good choice to make.

You also have to look at bottles pacifiers, toys and later on a high chair. All of these come in many makes and models, but before you buy make sure that they are rated according to safety standards.

Even with all this, you won't be allowed to take the baby home from the hospital without a car seat installed in the back seat. For this you need to look at ones that convert from rear to forward facing and that you can use a booster seat when the child gets older.

Baby Product Recall

by Anna Henningsgaard

Products are recalled all the time for posing a danger to the people who use them. Even large, established companies have to make massive recalls, and when this happens we all notice. Who could have missed the series of Ford recalls for rollovers, defective door latches, and then Ford fires? But for every high profile recall there are hundreds of smaller, less noisy recalls of dangerous products every day. Possibly the most concerning of these are recalls of baby products. Your baby cannot tell you if he notices a problem with his high chair, and if you do not stay on top of recall notices you could be putting your baby in danger.

Child product recalls and baby product recalls are more common than we would like to think. Car seats, high chairs, strollers, and numerous other baby products are recalled frequently for different safety problems. Our first instinct when buying a new product for a baby is to tear it out of the box and figure out how to set it up. Stop! Before you assemble that high chair or buckle in that car seat, fill out the little papers that come in the box and mail them in. These product registration cards are very important because they let the company know you have their product. If the company later becomes aware of a problem or danger with the product, you will be the first one to know.

If you do not send in your product registration, you may still hear about a recall from a friend or on the news. If this happens, you will want to immediately check out the background information of the recall, look over the packaging, brand names, and serial numbers of your product, and get in contact with the manufacturer. A few different sources keep track of recall information, so if you are in doubt check out the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and Consumer Reports. If you have questions or concerns about a baby product manufacturer's conduct or a baby product recall, talk to a lawyer and get on the right track.