However, not everything is safe for reuse, so you’ll have to part with a bit more money to buy them first-hand. Here is what you can buy used and what you should consider buying new.
1. Toys
There are all sorts of appealing toys on the market, and if you’re not careful, you may end up spending your hard-earned cash on items that may end up unused. It’s also hard to tell what toys your baby will find appealing, so you may buy expensive toy cars only for your little one to play with the box it came in.
To save yourself from unnecessary spending, consider buying secondhand playthings, or take hand-me-downs from family and friends. Just make sure to thoroughly inspect for loose parts, chipping paints, or sharp edges, and leave behind any toys with small parts that could be choking hazards.
2. Clothes
As an expectant parent, it can be almost impossible to escape the lure of cute new baby clothes. But if you’re on a tight budget, or you just want to be financially responsible, it may be worth considering buying used baby clothes.
Babies grow at a rapid rate, and you will often find that your little one outgrows an outfit before even getting to wear it. So it may be worth re-using a sibling’s or a friend’s hand-me-downs, or shopping thrift or resale. Just make sure to keep an eye out for drawstrings and loose ties or buttons, which could be choking or entanglement hazards.
3. High chair
According to voluntary safety standards, a high chair has to have a 3-point harness and a crotch restraint to keep a child in place and prevent them from climbing out or sliding out. If these two features are still in good working condition, a hand-me-down high chair should be fine. That said, you want to steer clear of high chairs which have arms that lift the tray over the baby's head.
4. Baby bathtub
Baby bathtubs should be okay to buy used as long as you check to ensure that there’s no mildew or mold. Babies grow out of bathtubs quite fast, so you should be able to save a couple of bucks on one that was barely used. Just be sure to steer clear of bath rings, bath seats, or inflatable tubs.
5. Changing table
Changing tables can be pricey- why not save money by buying a gently used one. Just be sure to check the one you get to confirm that it has side railings on all four sides and features a safety strap, and keep an eye out for missing parts and chipping paint.
6. Swings or rockers
Baby swings and rockers are great lifesavers for when you need to put your little one down and get some things done around the house. However, they can be very expensive. To save yourself from the hassle of purchasing one new, consider joining a local Facebook swap group, where you'll likely find gently used swings and baby bouncer chairs still in good condition.
7. Baby monitor
If you live in a small space, a baby monitor might not be an item that you need to buy. But if you live in a home with multiple levels, a baby monitor is useful to have. Because they’re quite pricey, try to see if you can find baby monitors at a consignment – you could save up to 50% off of retail!
1. Crib
When you become expectant, you will likely get crib offers from friends and family. You may have to turn them down – federal regulations changed in 2011, prohibiting manufactures from producing all kinds of drop-side cribs, which can be incredibly dangerous for babies. If you can't afford a new crib, consider going for a new portable crib – which is less expensive but just safe as a standard one – is a great alternative.
2. Mattress
A crib mattress is best bought new for sanitary reasons. Infants are very messy, and a used mattress most likely contains bacteria from pee, poop, spit-up, or even mold which could make your little one very sick. Older mattresses could also contain chemicals such as phthalates and BPA, which you want to keep away from your baby.
Additionally, crib mattresses can get soft and lose firmness over time, which makes them a suffocation risk. A new firm mattress is ideal as it can help prevent SIDS.
3. Pacifiers
The rubber in pacifiers gradually its integrity due to wear and tear as well as exposure over time. Second-hand pacifiers can come apart in your baby's mouth, making them a choking hazard. Therefore, choose to buy new pacifiers, not only for this reason but also because used pacifiers may carry lingering bacteria.
4. Stroller
If you plan on getting out and about after having your baby, a high-quality stroller is paramount. While they will set you back a couple of dollars, you must buy strollers new rather than new. This is because these big-ticket items are subject to a lot of recalls – in 2015, new federal guidelines went into effect, requiring manufacturers to minimize risks of stroller-related injuries. Additionally, stroller technology keeps evolving, with new models incorporating more safety features.
5. Car seats
While a car seat is expensive, they’re worth every penny. Just like with strollers, safety standards for car seats change frequently, so a car seat that may have been considered to be safe a couple of years ago may not meet current safety guidelines. Additionally, parts of a car seat wear and tear over time, and may not provide full protection in case of an accident when re-used.
Buying used baby items and taking hand-me-downs is a great way to save some money. However, because of the ever-evolving recalling list as well as stricter safety standards, not all hand-me-downs/used baby products are safe for a new baby.
]]>1. Remove the car seat from your car
Before you start cleaning, take the car seat out of your car. Remove any toys or accessories that may be attached to it. A useful tip is to take a picture of the car seat when it is fully assembled before taking it apart to clean so that you have a better idea of how to go about reassembling it. It is also helpful to have the car seat manual handy for reference.
2. Use a vacuum to get rid of loose dirt and debris
Use a vacuum to clean up all the food, dust, dirt, and debris. Pay attention to cracks and spaces in the seat where debris is likely to get stuck. Make sure to vacuum under the seat material as well to get rid of any loose dirt.
3. Clean the fabric cover
Check your car seat manual to confirm if you can remove the fabric cover to give it a thorough clean. If it can be removed but it is hand-wash only, start by rinsing it off to get rid of loose dirt, then wash it with a bar of gentle, hypoallergenic soap and cold water. Depending on the manual instructions, machine-dry it or hang it out in the sun to dry. If the fabric cover shouldn’t be removed, spot clean it instead.
4. Clean the straps and harnesses
Straps and harnesses are very delicate, so you want to avoid submerging them in water or tossing them in the machine as this could stretch out the fabric webbing and reduce their effectiveness in keeping your little one safe. Instead, use a non-abrasive cloth and warm water to spot clean it. Use mild soap only if necessary, but stay away from cleaning sprays and harsh chemicals.
5. Clean the plastic base
Use a damp cloth dipped in soapy water to wipe down the plastic frame of the car seat. Pay close attention to the arms as these tend to get especially filthy. Never douse the plastic base in water as this might affect your car seat’s functionality.
6. Reassembling the car seat
Using the photos you took earlier and the car seat manual as a guide, reassemble the car seat and reinstall it back into your car. Make sure that you do this correctly, and if you’re having trouble, seek the help of an authorized fitter.
Final thoughts
Don't wait until your baby's car seat is covered in grime to give it a clean – once you notice a spill, clean it out. This will not only prevent the accumulation of stains and reduced quality of the seat but is also essential for the good health of your little one. Also, keep in mind that a car seat always comes with a manual, so make sure you refer to it first before you start cleaning.
]]>What are your car seat options?
There are four main types of car seats to choose from:
1. Infant car seats
These are made for babies that weigh up to 30 pounds or so. They are ideal for younger babies as they offer rear-facing comfort as well as security.
2. Convertible car seats
Convertible car seats grow with your little one. Unlike infant car seats, these can be installed rear-facing for younger babies, and then used as forward-facing car seats for toddlers.
3. 3-in-1 car seats
These will grow with your kid until they are old enough to transition to booster seats, at around 4 years.
4. Booster car seats
At 4 years old, your kid can start using a booster car seat combined with a seatbelt.
Is the car seat safe?
It is worth noting that while all car seats have to be in line with the safety standards stipulated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, some manufacturers go the extra mile to incorporate additional side impact protection and/or parent-proof latching systems. Make sure that you know the weight and height limits of the car seat, as well as other safety details.
How long do you intend to use the car seat?
If you are concerned about breaking the bank buying a car seat, consider going for a convertible seat that will allow for long-term use. A majority of modern convertible car seats allow for rear-facing use, which makes safety less of a concern.
How much space do you have in the car?
If you drive a small car, you may want to steer clear of large car seats. Before making a purchase, take measurements of your car space (keeping other passengers in mind) so that you don't have to risk the comfort of your little one.
Is portability important?
If you would want to carry the baby in the car seat (or snap the car seat into a compatible stroller), or you intend to use the car seat in different vehicles, you need to consider portability when shopping for a car seat. Keep an eye out for high-quality lightweight car seats with ergonomically designed handles if portability is a concern.
Is stroller compatibility important?
If you are constantly on the move, you may want to go for a car seat that will easily snap into a stroller. There are three options you can consider:
Final thoughts
A car seat is one of the most important baby items you will buy, so you want to go for one that will suit your needs without compromising your baby's safety. To pick the right one for you, consider the factors highlighted in this article.
]]>Factors to consider when choosing a baby stroller
1. Safety
When it comes to pushing your baby around in a stroller, safety is the top priority. The basic safety features to look for when stroller shopping include:
5-point safety harnesses are pretty standard these days, although some umbrella strollers tend to skimp with a 3-point harness. Before making a purchase, test the snaps to ensure that they are secure and easy to buckle and unbuckle, but not for a kid.
Make sure that the stroller has reliable brakes. Make sure that you test the brakes to determine the ease of use. Do you find yourself having to hit the brakes when you don’t intend to? Can you stop the stroller securely? Are the brakes easy to disengage when you’re ready to hit the pavement?
You want to be careful when it comes to hinges and edges on any type of baby product, and even more so when looking at strollers. This is because a child’s toes and fingers can easily get caught in these tight spaces, so keep an eye out for any sharp edges and protrusions.
Check if the stroller model you intend to purchase features a sticker that indicates is certificated by the JPMA (Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association).
2. Storage
There are probably other things that you will want to bring along with you on your outdoor excursion apart from your baby. A storage basket underneath the stroller is very convenient for storing a purse, diaper bag, and grocery bags.
Cup holders (where you can keep your little one's sippy cup or your drink) and small storage spaces for storing phones and keys are also quite useful. This stroller features a large under-the-seat storage area that can hold the various items you bring along with you.
3. Ease of use
If you intend to put the stroller in the trunk of your car regularly, you need to go for a model that can be easily folded. Some stroller designs that feature large wheels may not fit in all car trunks. Before you purchase a stroller, you want to measure the trunk of your car and compare it to the size of the stroller when it is folded.
If you have to walk up and down the stairs to get around, the weight of the stroller is an important consideration. Your newborn might weigh 6-8 lbs, but keep in mind that babies grow very fast, so you may often find yourself lugging up to 50 lbs, depending on how heavy the stroller is. If this is a concern for you, you may want to consider a lightweight stroller like this one.
Being able to close and open a stroller with only one hand is a feature that is worth your consideration, especially if you find yourself having to constantly balance your baby in your other arm. A bonus feature is if the stroller can stand up on its own without tipping over. For this feature, this stroller is a great place to start.
Babies are very messy. Your stroller seat will inevitably experience snack accidents, drool, spit-up, and drippy bottles, so it’s convenient if you can effortlessly remove the seat cover and toss it in the washing machine.
4. Canopy
A canopy that can be easily adjusted is a must-have feature if you'll be taking your little one on sunny walks. A big canopy will provide plenty of shade from harmful UV rays and other harmful weather elements, as well as offer your little one a bit of privacy when they nap. A lot of canopies, especially the bigger ones, feature small windows through which you can peek in on your child now and then.
5. Adjustable handlebar
Look for a stroller that comes with an adjustable handlebar. This makes the stroller easy for different people to push, regardless of how tall/short they are.
6. The age of your little one
Are you purchasing the stroller for a new-born or a one-year-old child?
For the first few months, your baby is unable to sit up on his/her own and lacks sufficient head and neck stability. As a result, you will want to invest in a bassinet, an infant car seat that is attached to the frame, or a fully reclined seat (not more than 10 degrees).
When your little one can sit up and has a stronger neck, you can push him/her around in a lightweight stroller. The stroller seat should be easy to recline to ensure your child remains comfortable.
7. Your lifestyle
Are you a suburban mom who needs a stroller for short excursions away from home or walks around your neighborhood? Or are you a city mom who needs a stroller to get around daily? Do you intend to stick to one stroller for all your needs or want to buy an all-purpose stroller and add on a jogging or travel stroller as your child gets older? The stroller that you choose should match your lifestyle to ensure that you get the most out of it.
Final thoughts
A stroller is a big purchase and an important piece of baby gear, finding the right one for you is crucial. All you need to decide on the type of stroller to go for is a bit of knowledge on what is available on the market and have an understanding of what your own needs are, as well as have a budget in mind. In no time, you and your little one will be hitting the pavement in style.
]]>The concern that every parent has to take into consideration is whether your baby is comfortable and safe while being pushed around in a stroller. Read on for tips on how you can ensure that your baby is safe and secure in these convenient baby carriers.
1. Avoid overloading
An unsteady stroller that is prone to tipping could easily cause an accident or injury. Look for a wide, solid base, and also try to get a feel of the stroller handles by testing it out in the store before making a purchase. Even if the stroller turns out to be stable, avoid overloading the handlebars with heavy shopping bags as it could cause it to topple.
2. Check the pushchair brakes
Make sure that the stroller’s brakes are easy to apply and effective at bringing it to a halt. You want to avoid strollers that have brakes that are hard to access, or not clearly labeled, or are too easy to forget to leave on.
3. Check the reclining seat
If you have a newborn baby, you want to look for a stroller that can recline to 150 degrees or more, to allow him/her to lie in a flat position when you’re on the move. Not all strollers can do this, which makes them unsuitable for use for the first few months when your little one is unable to sit up on his/her own.
If you are using a travel-system stroller that features a baby car seat on top, it is worth mentioning that babies shouldn't be left in their car seats for more than two hours. This is because it can result in a strain in your little one's spine and subsequently restrict airflow to their little lungs, especially if their head flops forwards.
This all-in-one stroller comes with 3 different modes that make it suitable for use right from when your little one is born to when they are three years old.
4. Know the maximum weight the stroller can hold
Strollers have a maximum weight that they can comfortably accommodate, both for the seat and the basket underneath it. It is recommended that you find out what these limits are before taking the stroller out for a spin with your baby and extra baggage in it.
Overloading will inevitably result in instability, plus it can also cause your stroller to break. Look for a specific weight limit in the stroller’s instruction manual before putting it to use.
5. Be careful with the locking and folding devices
Take extra caution when folding your stroller or making any adjustments to it, and also ensure that your little one is at a distance as you do this. One of the most frequently reported stroller-related injuries when baby fingers get caught in folding hinges or locking mechanisms. Ensure that you confirm if you can easily fold and unfold the stroller, as well as lock it into place.
6. Make use of the five-point harness
A majority of strollers feature a built-in five-point harness seatbelt. This mechanism restrains your baby between the legs, over the shoulders, and across the waist. You must always use a well-fitting harness every time you have your little one in the pushchair to keep them from wriggling out, getting tangled, or even falling out.
7. Inspect the wheels
You must frequently inspect the stroller's wheels to ensure that they are not wobbly and unsteady. This stroller features robust durable wheels that allow for a smooth ride in varying terrains.
8. Be careful with the accessories that you use with the stroller
There are a wide variety of buggy accessories on the market, and while some serve a useful function (a buggy board or a cup holder, for instance), others can pose a safety risk (a faux-fur hood trim or pram charms, for example)
Before attaching any accessories to your baby’s stroller, do your research to ensure that you are not adding anything with small parts that your child can easily grab, as they can turn out to be a choking hazard.
9. Avoid overheating when in the sun
You may choose to cover your stroller with a piece of cloth to protect your little one from harmful sun rays, but this can cause your child to overheat and subsequently increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Avoid the direct sun whenever possible – your stroller might feature a sun canopy, but it can still heat up inside, and it's metal and plastic parts could potentially burn you or your little one.
10. Be aware of strollers that have been recalled due to safety concerns
Certain stroller models from big brands such as Stokke and Mamas & Papas have been recalled in the past due to concerns that were raised regarding safety. It is important that you research extensively to stay up to date with safety notices and stroller recalls to avoid buying a potentially faulty baby carrier.
11. Check for a safety label
All strollers should carry a safety label to confirm that it meets the mandatory safety standards. Safety labels typically vary depending on the country in which you purchase a stroller.
12. Always keep an eye on the stroller
You should never leave your stroller unattended when your little one is inside. This is because it can get too hot, roll away, or your baby could slip out and end up trapped. To avoid this scenario, always keep a close eye on it.
Final thoughts
Having adequate information when it comes to stroller safety is vital to avoid accidents and injuries while out with your little one. Choose a stable frame, smooth steering, wide base, and optimal brakes. Never overload the stroller, and always keep your eye on it when your baby is inside. You will enjoy taking your baby out and about as they take in the world around them from their stroller. And, the best part is that you can be self-assured that they’ll be safe.
]]>This article will take an in-depth look at why strollers are so important and why you absolutely need to get one for your little one. Let's begin!
The importance of having a stroller
1. Safety and security
As a parent, you realize that there are places that you want to go to, as well as places that you want to take your children to. When you are in a crowded area, having your child in a stroller allows you to relax a little and have some peace of mind.
A standard stroller allows you to easily secure your little one by buckling them in so that they are right in front of you at all times instead of lagging behind.
2. Convenience
As your little one grows, you start to notice how heavy they become – a majority of kids weigh around 20 pounds at a year old, and around 30 pounds by the time they are 3.
Kids in general love to be carried. However, walking around with a 20-30 pound child for an extended period is hardly an effortless task as you will likely start to notice a burning sensation in your arms and may even experience backache. Pushing your little one in a stroller is a convenient way to relieve that weight.
3. Flexibility
When you have a baby stroller, you have more freedom to do other things, especially at home. When you need to get some things done around the house and have no one to look after your baby on your behalf, you can simply put him/her in the stroller and occasionally check in as you complete your tasks.
4. Comfort
If you have ever had to carry your child in your arms for a long time, then you probably know how hard it is to keep him/her calm. A stroller may prove to be a more comfortable carriage item than your arms, especially for extended periods. A quality stroller gives your little one the option to sit up or recline, ensuring comfort at all times.
5. Storage space on the move
Strollers are important for when you have to take your child to amusement parks, zoos, and similar outdoor excursions that require you carry items such as wipes, diapers, drinks, snacks, and jackets. This is because there is quite a bit of storage space below a stroller seat where you can store all these things.
Features to look for in a stroller based on your little one’s age
0-6 months
The main concern at this age is to keep your baby’s head stable and supported. Therefore, you need to go for a sturdy and well-structured stroller that has a good suspension system that can easily absorb shock and prevent jostling.
Another key feature to look for is a comfortable seat that can fully recline to allow your little one to lie flat on his/her back.
Look for a stroller that can accommodate an infant car seat so that you don’t have to keep waking up your little one as you take him/her in and out of the car.
If you don’t drive around much, consider going for a stroller that has a bassinet attachment. The bassinet can also act as a mini crib.
6-12 months
At this age, your baby can sit upright on his/her own, which makes a stroller's seat all the more important. A seat should be spacious, offering a lot of support and cushioning, with several recline positions. It should also feature a five-point harness that ensures your little one is snug and secure as you push him/her around.
As you take your little one out and about, you may want to bond with him/her. A stroller that can face forward-facing for when your little one wants to enjoy the sights around him or backward/parent-facing for when you want to interact with them comes in handy. This stroller is a great option with this feature that you might want to check out.
If you are an avid runner and want to bring your baby along during exercise, consider looking for a lightweight jogging stroller that can handle trails and sidewalks. This stroller is a great pick for parents who are constantly on the move.
18-24 months
Children at this age are more independent and curious and want to take in the world around them. Your little one might sometimes want to hop out of the stroller, so you'll likely end up having to carry it.
To make things easier for yourself, choose to go for a lightweight model that is quick and effortless to fold. This Travel-Lite stroller is a great option when looking for this feature.
You want a set of wheels that will make navigation of the stroller easy. This is especially important if you are constantly multitasking as you will be able to perform tasks with one hand and steer the stroller with the other one.
A ride-on board is a great feature for those days that your child prefers to walk for a bit instead of being wheeled around.
Stroller features to consider regardless of age
1. Adjustable handlebar
It is important to take into consideration the fact that the stroller will likely be pushed by people with varying heights and leg spans. As a result, you will want to ensure that you go for a stroller that features an adjustable handlebar to accommodate everyone.
2. Sun protection
In the early days, you may be able to get away with using a blanket to protect your child from the sun. But as your little one grows and becomes more active, you will find a stroller that features a UV-protective canopy to be more convenient.
Final thoughts
A stroller is important to parents because it gives them that extra sense of safety and security when out in public with their little ones. It also allows for less carrying of children and more pushing, which gives you the freedom to do other things.
As you choose your next stroller, keep in mind that the lifestyle you lead along with your little one's age will determine the kind of features you need to look for in a stroller, as well as the type of stroller to get.
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