BornFree Eco Bottles Giveaway!

BornFree wants to know:  What were the products as a new Mom that you couldn’t live without?

It is downright overwhelming being a new mother. We want the safest, most trusted and convenient products available. To help parents pick the product essentials from one mom-to another, let us know what Products (toys, bottles teethers, etc) got you through your babies first year.

Give your advice in the comment section and I'll choose a winner at random on November 4, 2011.  The winner will be given a set of BornFree Eco bottles of their very own! 



*This contest is sponsored by BornFree (www.newbornfree.com). BornFree specializes in developing and manufacturing baby feeding products that feature a natural flow that’s closer to breastfeeding, tummy conscious ActiveFlow™venting technology that’s clinically proven to reduce colic, and naturally safe materials that are free of BPA, PVD and phthalates.

Infantino Savvy Bag Baby Changing Clutch

Wow!  I opened the box of the Savvy Bag Baby Changing Clutch by Infantino ($22.99) and breathed a deep sigh of relief. In the past when I have received these types of baby clutches the design has either been cutesy or just incredibly unstylish.  I wouldn't be caught dead carrying one.  The Savvy Bag by Infantino is not that way at all. I adore the cream and red design that is so current for right now.  The brown handle is a nice touch too. It's compact, has an adjustable strap and is easy to use and wipe clean. 

The bag itself is slim and stays that way when you pack it.  I'm a necessities only type of diaper bag packer so the Savvy Bag is perfect for me when I have to be out for short periods of time with my kids or just with my toddler.  It's water resistant and has an ingenious removable pad for a clean changing area.  The bag can be a pillow for baby while changing and it easily stores diapers,wipes and a few other essentials.  I love how the pad can just flip open or detach.  The option for both is usually not there in other diaper clutches. 

I hate to say it but I actually would not mind a purse that looked like this diaper clutch.  It's a great addition to the Infantino line and makes a great gift for a mom of one or more kids. 

MPR Rating: Four Stars.

Disclaimer:  I am a participant in a Mom Central Consulting campaign for Infantino and have received various Infantino products as part of my participation. The opinions shared are my own and MPR's only.  I was not paid for this post.


*Images from Step2.com and wholelistofgiveaways.com

Graco Secure Coverage Monitor with 2 Parent Units

Graco is known all over for their wonderfully innovative baby products.  The Secure Coverage Monitor™ ($64.99) claims to have "crystal clear digital connection, so you can clearly hear even the quietest whimper, without fear of interference from your phone or wireless network."  Through the use of vibration on one of the easy clip-on monitors you can be aware of what your baby is doing and when they need you with up to a 2000 ft household coverage.

This 900 MHz frequency monitor won't interfere with your homes other electronics or phones.  It has a secure digital technology that offers clarity and privacy.  In addition to the vibration this monitor also has sound lights that let you keep tabs on your baby or child visually. It also has two parent units in the set allowing both parents to monitor the baby. A low battery alarm will remind you when you need to charge the parent unit too. 

How does the Graco Secure Coverage Monitor work?  Well, it didn't in my house.  I don't know if it was because we already own a baby monitor or what. Our house is about 2000 square feet so that can't be it.  We do live in a townhouse and I wonder if the different levels caused this problem. We never could figure it out.  We turned the old monitor off and put it away while the Graco one was in use and still a signal could not be found.  Then I got the bright idea to send it next door to my friend who recently brought home a baby.  The Graco Secure Coverage Monitor worked!  She wears the belt clip unit all over and it alerts her with vibration when her child in the nursery or in its cradle in her room is crying or making even the slightest peep.  We determined that in her home the Graco monitor is actually very sensitive.  It does have crystal clear coverage in her home too.

I think that this product does what it says for most people. It's not a star performer like most of Graco's products but baby monitors in townhouse situations can sometimes be tricky.  There have been many cases on our block of faulty monitors from all brands and price ranges that have spotty or temperamental work issues.  I let my neighbor keep my unit as she likes it and it works in her house. 

MPR Rating: Four Stars.  See more reviews here. 


Disclaimer:  MPR was not paid for this post.  Products received are for review and test purposes only.  Opinions are MPR's only.

Image from babygiftoutlet.com

Original Baby Bullet Giveaway!

This week I'm giving away a Baby Bullet!  The magical Baby Bullet is part of the Magic Bullet family.  It makes baby food safely, cheaply and even organic (if you so choose)!  It purees, creates cereals and makes food into chunky textures.  It's super fast too! It comes with over 15 pieces and is valued at $60.  I'm giving one away this week to a lucky reader!

To enter visit the Baby Bullet Facebook page and 'friend' them, then comment here.  I'll choose a winner at random on Friday, January 28, 2011.


CONGRATULATIONS to Stacy on winning the Baby Bullet!  Thanks for entering and reading, everyone!!

Infantino Annabel Karmel Food Products- Part II

Earlier this week I talked about the line of Annabel Karmel food products with Infantino but today I'm discussing a particular product in the set.

The Make It Easy Food Box and Flask is great! I wish I had this with the last two kids.  Geared for ages nine months on up this cute and handy kit works really well when you are traveling, out for the day or even at home.  I love putting finger foods in it for my toddler but it also works for baby food.  The double layer storage box doesn't let food get squashed when traveling and all the containers are removable.  A fork and spoon is even included and that is one of the best, most practical parts.

Just like other Annabel Karmel food products it is dishwasher, freezer and microwave-safe.    You can get a single or dual layer food box too.  The flask is made of durable aluminium.  The whole set is easy to use and practical.  It's a great product.

MPR Rating: Four Stars. 

Disclaimer:   "I am a participant in a Mom Central Consulting campaign for Infantino and have received various Infantino products as part of my participation.”

Infantino Annabel Karmel Food Products

As part of the Infantino program I reviewed the Annabel Karmel Make It Easy food products for babies and toddlers.  I received a lot of products from a food mill, food cube trays, box and flask set and so much more. It is quite an array of products that Annabel Karmel has to offer.

Each product is in attractive colors of blue or green and they all are microwavable, dishwasher safe, freezer safe and durable.  Each product is simple and convenient to use too.  The food trays are designed to stack in the freezer just like the box and flask set which are wonderful when you are traveling or out for the day and need to feed your baby or toddler.  I was impressed with the construction and function of each Annabel Karmel item I received and can't wait to use them more as my new baby grows and gets more into foods.  I made baby food with my second child and will do so with this third little girl.  The ability to freeze and stack, store easily and have more options will all be due to these clever Annabel Karmel food prep and storing products.

Annabel Karmel products are available online at Amazon and Babies R Us.  Find out more about Infantino here.

MPR Rating: Four Stars

Disclaimer:  "I am a participant in a Mom Central Consulting campaign for Infantino and have received various Infantino products as part of my participation.”

Neatnik Saucer Giveaway!

Invented by a mother-daughter team the Neatnik Saucer ($33) eliminates the mess and hassle of dining out with kids. No more messy high chairs or toys thrown on the floor!  The Neatnik Saucer is a great germ barrier that keeps the high chair and your kid clean.  It folds up easily into a 12-inch square for easy toting. Great for ages six month to three years.

I am giving one away this week too!  Simply comment to enter and I will choose a winner at random on October 18, 2010.  Good Luck!

Infantino EcoSash Wrap & Tie Carrier

Infantino recently sent me a new baby carrier, the ECOSASH Wrap & Tie Carrier ($59.99).  Designed to be stylish and comfortable the ECOSASH has a nice natural feel to it with a form-fitting design that feels snug but not tight.  It is adjustable, with three carrying positions- front, back and sides and can be altered to suit your needs as your baby grows. 

I loved the soft fabric and detachable hood.  Unlike some carriers that either have a hood or one that isn't removable the ECOSASH by Infantino has a hood that is easy to put on or take off and the whole carrier can be washed in a mesh washing machine bag that Infantino provides.  That makes life so simple, especially when the baby is a young one who is prone to spitting up on every accessory I own.  The carrier didn't shrink or change shape after washing either.  You can watch a demo here.

The Infantino ECOSASH has a few little bonus pieces like a pacifier loop, two leg loops and a reversible fabric front to change up the look from a print or a solid black panel.  It is all available together at Babies R Us. 

MPR Rating:  Four Stars.

Disclaimer:  MPR was not paid for this post.  This was a Mom Central sponsored review and all products received were for review and testing purposes only.  Opinions are MPR's only. 

Infantino Jumbo Wheel Play Space

Designed by Infantino for ages 0+ the Jumbo Wheel Play Space encourages not just fun and exploration but scooting, rolling, grabbing and even crawling. 

The Jumbo Wheel Play Space is a rather large mat that could easily replace an activity gym.  We have one that went through two kids and we are getting rid of it in favor of the Jumbo Wheel Play Space for this new baby.  The Jumbo Wheel just has so much more to offer.  It plays music, has a detachable Velcro flower, the elephant in the center has those great crinkly sounding ears and there is even a mirror to entertain baby.  This bright, colorful play mat has soft spots, satiny spots and even teething rings to create loads of fun and exploration time for a child.  It works well at encouraging that all important tummy time but is enticing enough to get babies scooting and rolling as they discover new areas of the mat.  It's so big that it will take them a bit to roll off it too, which is something I really love.  It can be easily folded up and stored away for later use as well, which is another plus.  The Jumbo Wheel Play Space is going to make a wonderful addition to our baby play time arsenal for our newest arrival.

MPR Rating: Four Stars.

Disclosure: I am a participant in a Mom Central campaign for Infantino and have received various Infantino products to as part of my participation.

Disclaimer: MPR was not paid for this post. All products were for testing and review purposes only. Opinions are my own.
Image from The Shopping Mama.

Belle Baby Carrier

Earlier this year Belle Baby Carriers launched their new carrier the “Organic Earth” ($119.95).  Belle Baby had eco-minded moms in mind when they created this 100% Romanian Hemp and Organic Cotton carrier that is handcrafted by local artisans right here in the US, Colorado to be precise.

This ergonomic carrier is natural and the fabrics are not dyed.  It comes in colors like, Organic Moss, Organic Denim, Organic Black and Organic Sand and it is part of the Belle Baby Pure Line.  No more drab, dull colors here.  The Organic Earth is eco-luxe at its best. 

I like how it works for kids from 8-30 lbs and is completely washable.  This carrier is soft to the touch inside (fuzzy fleece liner) and out which your baby will love having against its skin as will you.  The carrier is pre-washed which makes it more pliable and comfortable for you and baby as well.  It is also fits parents of all sizes and has a detachable head support panel.    Despite it's padded straps the Organic Earth also folds up compactly and fits inside a diaper bag easily so it's one less item to carry.  The buckles are the same as used on outdoor caliber backpacks making it super strong and secure.  While I cannot use it any longer with my middle child due to my baby bump I will definitely be using it again with baby number three. 

Belle Baby Carriers are high quality and comfortable to use.  They are available at Target, Babies R Us and many other places online and in stores.

MPR Rating:  Four Stars.

Disclaimer:  MPR was not paid for this post.  All products received are for testing and review purposes only.  Opinions are solely my own.

Weil Baby Training Cups

For the past thirty years Dr. Andrew Weil, M.D., has spent his time developing, practicing and teaching the principles of integrative medicine. As the founder of Weil Lifestyle, LLC he has spent a lifetime of investigating natural and preventative medicine. In other words, Weil is very much in tune with using health care for not just the body but the mind and spirit as well.

Weil Baby is a product line spin-off from the good doctor. The 9 oz (also in 5 oz size) drinking cup ($9.99) is made from the revolutionary material Tritan™ and comes standard with the proprietary AirWave™ venting system that helps reduce colic and gas. Another benefit is that all the cups in the line are completely BPA and toxin free.

I love that the training and drinking cup colors are vibrant and modern. There is a nice aesthetic sense of style without a cutesy feel. I found it handy that both the types of cups (training and drinking) had wide mouths making it easy to pour milk, juice or formula into either at home or on the go. It also makes cleaning the cups a breeze. The handle on each style removes with ease as does the cap. The caps, by the way, make great little snack holders in the car too. The ounces listed on the cups are another plus, however they tend to scratch off easy, which annoyed me.

I also love the fact that all after-tax profits from royalties from sales of Weil Baby products go directly to the Weil Foundation, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting integrative medicine through training, education and research.

Overall, I like these toxin free cups. They are durable, easy to clean and wear well despite the rubbed off numbers.

Weil Baby products are available online and at Babies R Us. Get a $5 OFF coupon here.

MPR Rating: Four Stars.

Graco's sweetpeace swing

When I first laid on eyes on Graco's sweetpeace Newborn Soothing swing ($189.99) I wasn't even thinking about babies. I was simply looking at a new product on the market. When I found out I was pregnant a few months later Graco sent me one to sample. Months have gone by, the swing has gotten a lot of good use and started quite a few conversations too. Now it is time for the sweetpeace to retire, my baby is just too big and mobile to use it anymore. I admit I am a bit sad to see it go. It has been one of the best baby products I have had the pleasure of using.

In our house the sweetpeace became a conversation starter before the baby even arrived. It was all set up and ready to go a few weeks prior to her birth and everyone who came into our house gravitated towards this swing. They poked and prodded it, walked around it and often I wanted to ask, "Do you want to kick the tires?"

Honestly, the sweetpeace is the mother of all baby swings. It has womb and heart thumping sounds, a variety of lullabies and jigs, as well as an MP3 player jack. There are multiple swing speeds (side to side swing action only) and the seat has two vibrating speeds. Included is a detachable bar that has an adjustable mirror and teething ring for the baby to play with as well as a bear that can hang down or detach for playtime too. There is also an adjustable canopy which defuses light and mimics the light of the womb towards the end of a woman's pregnancy. My baby found this incredibly soothing. Her older sister slowly drove us all mad with her constant desire to turn on the sweetpeace lullabies at full volume and dance around the room though.

The sweetpeace has six speeds and cradles a newborn with it's three different seat positions. I loved that the seat was also detachable and I could strap her into it and place her on the floor in another room if I needed too. You can also place many types of car seats into the base if you need too. The removable headrest and swaddle blanket were godsends when we first began using it. She was tucked into the swing so nice and snug she felt like she was safe and sound.

I cannot say enough about how wonderful the Graco sweetpeace truly is as a swing and comforting tool for newborns on up. It even provides entertainment for toddlers and in a pinch you can plug in your ipod and use it for your own mood or party music!

The sweetpeace is available online or in stores at Amazon, Walmart and Target.

MPR Rating: Five Stars.

Judy's 'Extra Hand' Baby Bottle Holder

Ergonomically correct, physician-endorsed and hospital-approved Judy's Bottle Holder gives you the ability to safely feed and hold your baby with one arm while performing simple tasks with the other.

Available in five color combinations this bottle holder is safe and easy to use. It's adjustable and comfortable too. I was a bit skeptical at first. It took me a few tries to get the holder positioned right around my neck as well as with the baby but it made it a whole lot easier to do things around the house while feeding. Since then I have used the Judy's Bottle Holder when I need to have a free hand with my other child during meal or play times. I think it is a "must-have" if you have more than one child.

Bottle propping can be deleterious to a baby, both physically and emotionally. Judy's Bottle Holder ($9.50) enables parents to hold their child during feedings and still have one hand free. It works for either left or right handed people too. It helps prevent ear infections, choking and tooth decay as well.

"Unlike bottle proppers, Judy's Bottle Holder promotes proper positional feeding
and requires adult supervision."

I think this is a wonderful tool to have around the house if you have only one baby or older children. It has been tested and researched for over twelve years and has received the 'Best Product' award from Orca Communications. It makes a good gift for the parent who has everything and is reasonably priced. To order click here.

Playtex Diaper Genie II Elite- Advanced Disposal System

With my first child I opted not to go with a Diaper Genie. I went with another diaper disposal system that supposedly would reduce odors and keep the nursery smelling fresh. It did the job too, without the blue bags that the Diaper Genie needs. However, it only did the job for a day or two before the odor situation became dire and the system began to fail.

I now see the error of my ways. I have seen the light and it comes in the form of the new Diaper Genie II Elite, the Advanced Disposal System from Playtex ($25-40). While I initially thought the blue bags to be just another item to spend money on in the baby category, I now realize how effective they are in eliminating odor. Since there is no more twisting of the bags (the reason I resisted the Diaper Genie with the first child) it is easier to use even while holding your child (there is now a foot pedal and the Genie is taller too!) and more hygenic. It's truly hands-free! Set up is simple if you follow the directions (one step only!) and one set of bags holds about five layers or 180 small diapers.

Other assets to this system include:

Double-Lock design seals in odor better than diaper pails that hold only a plastic bag.
AIR TITE, seven-layer film is an excellent odor-barrier technology.

Antimicrobial Protection inhibits odor-causing bacteria.

Internal childproof cutter makes emptying the pail a breeze, simply cut, seal and toss.
Diapers only touch film on bags and not the diaper pail, so there is no messy residue left behind.

See a demonstration of how it all works here.

Overall, I am impressed with this new version of the Diaper Genie. I'll be keeping it around and not going back to my previous diaper pail. For more information about the new Diaper Genie II Elite visit Baby Smells too.

LAF's Detachable Clothing

"Convenience in disguise" is how LAF describes their clothing line. The cute and clever t-shirts (sized 2T-5T at $18) are really two shirts in one! It's not just clever but something your child will really get a kick out of wearing.

Founded in 2006 and meaning "Lil Angel Face", LAF brand clothing is durable, comfortable and stylish. It washes well and wears even better. I particularly like how I no longer need two shirts to create this cute look. I frequently layer my daughters short-sleeved shirts with long-sleeved ones in cooler months to get more use out of them. LAF detachable clothing is not just a great idea but it saves me some laundry too! They even have this style in onesies. Another plus is that if it is cool in the morning you can attach the long sleeves in no time and even quicker take them off making the shirt short-sleeved as the day warms up. There are styles for boys and girls though the whole line is wonderfully styled in the unisex fashion. Another bonus!

LAF has also created the very versatile and stylish Roll-N-Go Diaper Caddy ($40+). If you are like most parents you have a large purse or backpack that you tote around with you. If you are like me, you refuse to give up your purse and are sick of carrying a diaper bag. The Diaper Caddy makes this possible for me. I simply tuck the diapers, wipes, creams and any other diaper changing needs into the nicely sized pockets. You can roll it up and transfer it from bag to bag with ease or keep it unrolled and line your bag with it. It is convenient and a great addition to any baby gear stockpile you have going on in your home.

Did I mention that I'm giving one away too? I am. Just comment (WITH YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS, so I can contact you) on this post from now until September 19, 2008 and you are entered to win one of LAF's Roll-N-Go Diaper Caddy's. You'll love it!

You can purchase any and all of LAF's products from clothing to baby loot from their website and know that a percentage of the purchase will go to The Smile Train which provides cleft lip and palette surgery for children in poor nations.