Newborn Baby Products-Everything You Need for Your Newborn Baby

Best Wooden Toys for Babies and Toddlers

Post author By
Post date September 14, 2022

There’s something enduringly sweet about wooden toys. While they aren’t as flashy as their plastic counterparts, they are eco-friendly and non-toxic, and they will still spark a child’s creativity.

Wooden toys can also withstand loads of abuse—being banged around, chewed on and thrown across the room—and still look good. Because they’re so durable, wooden toys can last through multiple children and even generations. Keep them clean by wiping them with a damp cloth dipped in a mild soap or a vinegar-and-water solution. Don’t dunk them in water, though—it can cause the wood to swell and split.

Find your look-good, last-forever toys here:

Uncle Goose Classic ABC Blocks

Each side is used to its maximum potential with this beautifully designed set of 28 blocks. Besides stacking them and knocking them over (which is endlessly amusing!), your child can also sort these blocks by color, line them up by letter or number order or point out their favorite animal.

Manhattan Toy Skwish Rattle-Classic

Manhattan Toy

Flexible webbing holds together wooden rods and beads to create this molecule-like structure that’s fun for tots to grab, bite, pull and smush. Worried about this rattle being annoying? It’s not: the rattle is subtle and comes from the beads plinking as they slide together. (Note: there’s also a natural-colored version.)

Melissa & Doug Stacking Train Toddler Toy

Stacking Train

Your little one will be totally on board with this solid wood train set. In addition to choo-chooing around the living room, kids can stack the multi-shaped blocks on the pegs or separate the trains to help develop fine motor skills. The set is also durable, which is great because two-year-olds.

Hape Double Bubble

Is your little one ready for their first loop-the-loop? This colorful bead maze encourages fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination as little hands guide the beads along the two twisty tracks. Four sturdy suction cups secure the base to smooth surfaces for extra stability.

Montessori Object Permanence Box

Montessori materials

Montessori materials are a great addition to your little one’s wooden toy collection as they’re expertly designed for specific developmental stages (and they fit the aesthetic, too!). This object permanence toy is a favorite among many Montessori learners, and it also helps with hand-eye coordination and grasping.

Melissa & Doug First Shapes Jumbo Knob Wooden Puzzle

Puzzle set

These simple shapes make a great first puzzle for toddlers. The large knobs are easy for little hands to grasp, and the matching pictures under the pieces help guide little ones to the correct spot. Ready to move on from basic shapes? There are also several themed puzzles to choose from, including pets and safari.

Tags Newborn Baby, Toy, Wooden Toys

Best Play Gyms and Playmats of 2022

Post author By
Post date September 13, 2022

Whether you call it a playmat, play gym or an activity gym, the idea is the same: a brightly colored and interactive mat for your baby’s play time. They come in lots of different sizes, shapes and themes and provide a safe, comfy spot for your little one to relax, play and work on their developing skills.

Here are the playmats and activity gyms we think you and your baby will love.

SKIP HOP Silver Lining Cloud Activity Gym

This activity gym skips the primary color palette and instead uses sublter colors that blend in more easily with most decor. There’s a crisscross bar overhead with five plush toys attached (including one that plays lullabies) and lots of varied textures and colors that encourage development. There’s also a cloud pillow just right for tummy time. Don’t mind something brighter? Skip Hop’s Treetop Friends activity gym is another popular pick we like.

The Play Gym by Lovevery

eco-friendly-playmat

This eco-friendly playmat was designed by child development experts to focus your baby’s attention on what makes the most sense for each developmental stage. There are toys and teething rings and lots of high-contrast pictures to look at, but you can hide sections so your little one won’t be overstimulated. It even comes with a guide that suggests mat activities based on your baby’s age, and there’s a Sensory Strands accessory (sold separately) to add more fun. And although this play mat is pricey, it converts into a fort for older babies so your little one can use it for several years.

Fisher-Price Deluxe Kick & Play Piano Gym-Green

Piano Gym

What really sets this smaller play gym apart is the piano keyboard that plays notes and music when your baby kicks or pats the keys. It’s perfect for teaching cause and effect and we’ve yet to find a baby who wasn’t completely enthralled by it. (Adults maybe not so much, but what can you do…) Five toys attach overhead for when your little one is on their back, or you can attach them to the mat to make tummy time more entertaining. When your baby starts sitting up, you can detach the keyboard so they can still pound away at the piano keys to hear short songs about animals and learn about colors, shapes and numbers.

Tiny Love Gymini-Magical Tales Black & White

The black-and-white contrast on this play mat—perfect for stimulating babies’ vision—is just one of the many features of this play gym designed to support newborn development. The gym has 18 skill-building activities including a black and white book, a soft mirror, hanging toys perfect for reaching and grabbing, a crinkly peek-a-boo tree and so much more. It’s just the right spot for your little one to stretch out, relax and play.

SKIP HOP Little Traveler Reversible Play Mat

This rollable mat is a good choice if you need a soft spot for your baby and toddler to play but don’t have a ton of storage space in your home. The soft, cushioned play space is reversible and features a playful kid-friendly pattern on one side and a more modern one on the other. It’s easy to wipe down after a mess and just as easy to roll up and tuck under a couch or in a corner.

Tags Baby, Baby Products, Play Gyms, Playmats

Baby Strollers Newborn Baby Products

We Tested UPPAbaby’s Most Popular Strollers—Here Are Our Faves

Post author By
Post date September 13, 2022

If you plan on getting out of the house with your baby, a stroller is a helpful piece of gear to have. Which stroller you get is entirely up to you, but with so many options out there, looking at some tried-and-true models is a great place to start.

With a lineup of strollers that often ends up on “best of” lists, UPPAbaby has a reputation for making some of the most parent-friendly strollers around. They’re known for their sleek design, clever features, and most importantly, their safety. UPPAbaby’s vast lineup also makes it easy to find a stroller that matches your lifestyle.

UPPAbaby VISTA V2 Stroller – Greyson

The VISTA is a top stroller pick for growing families. With the ability to transport up to three—yes, three!—kiddos at once and included accessories (baby Bassinet, rain shield, and more), it’s an impressive premium stroller. Use it from birth with the included Bassinet for strolling or for sleep. Or, make it a complete travel system when paired with the UPPAbaby MESA or other compatible car seat.

When your child gets older, switch out the Bassinet for the included front- or rear-facing Toddler Seat. Adding baby number two? Add on the multi-directional RumbleSeat or the PiggyBack Ride-Along Board for a big kid who wants to stand and ride. The VISTA is packed with high-end features parents love like an incredible suspension system, full seat recline, telescoping leather handlebar, huge underseat storage basket, and an extendable UPF 50+ canopy, combining style, convenience, and performance.

Cruz V2 Stroller – Jake

CRUZ

The CRUZ is one of UPPAbaby’s most popular strollers, and it’s not hard to see why. The standout features of this full-size stroller include a reversible Toddler Seat, allowing your baby to ride facing you or facing forward, a hefty suspension system for great maneuverability, and a huge storage basket that holds everything you might need—and more—for a day out.

The CRUZ is travel system-ready with the addition of an infant car seat and also works with a Bassinet. There are even several high-end features like a leather handlebar and independent shocks to absorb any extra bumps you may encounter on your outdoor adventures.

The CRUZ has a modular seat, an adjustable footrest, a telescoping leather handlebar, all-wheel suspension with a patented two-stage system and independent shocks, an extendable UPF 50+ canopy (that’s also height-adjustable), a one-handed full recline, and more. The storage basket on the CRUZ is generously sized, too. With a 30-pound capacity and deep, wide storage, it’s one of the best stroller baskets around.

MINU V2 Stroller-Jake

MINU-V2

Another lightweight yet feature-packed model, the MINU V2 is less than 17 lbs with all-wheel suspension for a smooth ride. One hand and motion is all it takes to fold the MINU—meaning you can hold baby in your other arm while folding the stroller. The built-in carry handle and shoulder strap make it easy to carry along, too. Or, go hands-free with the MINU Travel Bag.

Ready for nap time on the go? The multi-position recline lets your little one relax while out or sit upright to see the world. As for storage, keep your diaper bag and extras in the large, easy-access basket. For your little one, the zip-out sunshade extends to block UV rays, while the canopy’s vented peekaboo window allows you to check in during strolls. Not skimping on the luxe details, the 100% full-grain leather handlebar provides extra grip for you.

You can use MINU on its own around three months, or from day one with attachments. You can attach the MESA Infant Car Seat with adapters (sold separately). You can also add this handy accessory bundle that includes a parent organizer and cup holder.

G-LUXE Stroller – JAKE

G-LUXE

One of UPPABaby’s lightest strollers, the G-LUXE weighs just 16 lbs. This lightweight umbrella stroller is a great get-up-and-go companion—you can easily pick it up and carry it over your shoulder with the convenient carry strap. For napping on the go, your kiddo can rest comfortably in the one-handed reclining seat with an adjustable footrest.

Worried about fumbling with a stroller? The hand-level triggers make it easy to fold the G-LUXE with just your fingers, no foot action required. Once folded, it stands on its own–great for storing out of the way. It also has a one-step brake. Some other nice features worth mentioning: a pop-out UPF 50+ sunshade, a removable cup holder that attaches to the stroller frame, and a large, accessible basket that holds up to 10 lbs.

G-Link 2 Stroller – Jake

G-LINK-2

Party of two? Whether you’ve got two babies, two toddlers, or one of each, the UPPAbaby G-LINK 2 makes getting around fuss-free. It’s easier to push and steer thanks to the lightweight and narrow design combined with four sets of wheels (versus the traditional six), so the stroller moves with you.

Independent reclining seats mean you can find the right comfy position for each kiddo and even let them nap on different schedules. To keep you organized, there’s a double storage pocket on the back of the canopies and an easy-access oversized basket. When you’re done, the stroller has a quick fold and a carry handle for easy transport. UPPAbaby is known for its thoughtful, innovative design, and this stroller delivers. There are two extendable pop out UPF 50+ sunshades, a removable cup holder, and a large basket that holds up to 10 pounds.

Tags Baby, Baby Products, Stroller, UPPAbaby

Baby Clothes Newborn Baby Products

Best baby socks

Post author By
Post date September 13, 2022

Socks — and the socks you choose — become even more important as baby begins to toddle around the house. You’ll want to be certain to outfit baby with a pair of no-slip socks to encourage those early steps and prevent any toppling over. Read on for the best baby socks to meet every need.

Best Baby Socks Overall

LA Active Athletic Crew Grip Socks

LA Active

These affordable crew socks have garnered thousands of rave reviews from parents. Why? First and foremost, the thick cotton/poly/Spandex blend socks really and truly do stay put on little feet. The soles are covered from heel to toe with non-slip grippers that help prevent slipping and sliding in new walkers and tots who are always on the go. While they’re labeled as “do not tumble dry,” in practice, parents report they haven’t had any issues after months of tossing them in the dryer on low heat. One potential downside is that the thick socks may not work with sneakers that are tight-fitting, though they tend to work better with boots.

Best Baby Knee High Socks

Hudson Baby 8-Pack Forest Knee-High Socks in Grey

Knee High Socks

Taller socks like these that hit just below the knee naturally stay on better since they aren’t easy for baby to kick off. Plus, they help to keep baby’s ankles and calves warm should your little one’s pants ride up or if you’re dressing baby in shorts for the too cute vintage look. The woodsy animals are pretty adorable and come in a pink version, too. The soft and stretchable socks are machine-washable.

Best Baby Socks That Stay On

Sock Ons Classic Socks in White

Socks That Stay On

Just as the name promises, these sock covers really do help socks stay on. Layer the Socks On over a regular pair of socks, and the open toe and heel design helps them work with just about any style of socks. The combo helps to keep your little one’s toes nice and toasty warm, while limiting the ability to kick the socks off (meaning you won’t be putting them back on 100 times a day). Talk about a win-win! The cotton socks are machine-washable.

Best Baby Socks With Grips

Touched by Nature 12-Pack Non-Skid Socks

Socks With Grips

The soles of these tiny socks are covered with grippers to help your baby — well — get a grip when walking on hardwood, marble, or tile floors and prevent any toppling over, which could result in boo boos. The comfy socks are made primarily of organic cotton with polyester and Spandex thrown in for a touch of stretch. While they can be worn with shoes, you’ll get more life out of them if you reserve them for the at-home, shoe-free days. In addition to pink, they also come in a selection of blues, grays, and blacks.

Best Baby Ruffle Socks

Epeius Baby-Girls Eyelet Turn Cuff Ruffle Lace Socks Triple Lace Dressy Socks

Ruffle Socks

These sweet little eyelet socks are so cute they give even your baby’s toes a run for their money. (Okay, maybe they’re not that cute, but close!) The cuff is ribbed to help the socks stay in place and the triple layer lace trim really gives them that frilly effect. They’re practically made to wear with classic patent Mary Janes.

Best Baby Wool Socks

Woolino Wool Baby Socks

Wool Socks

Forget about the itchy scratchy wool socks of your youth — these wool socks are made of merino wool which has fine, itch-free fibers (we promise!). The other benefits are that it’s temperature regulating and able to absorb up to 30 percent of its weight in water, so baby’s tiny tootsies will be warm, without getting too hot, and won’t get damp. The OEKO-TEX 100 certified socks are made in Denmark and Latvian of Australian sheep and can go in the washer.

Best Baby Fuzzy Socks

Cozyway Baby Fluffy Socks

Fuzzy Socks

These ultra soft and breathable microfiber cotton socks are so comfy, they have some parents wishing they came in adult sizes. The ankle is lined with a flexible elastic to prevent the socks from falling down or slipping off. They’re perfect for bedtime, but with non-slip dots on the sole, they can be worn during the daytime, too. However, keep in mind that the thick fleece socks aren’t the best choice for wearing with shoes.

Best Baby Walking Socks

Yenzat Baby Anti-Slip Non-Skid Socks Grip

Walking Socks

If your babe is resistant to wearing shoes, try these walking socks as a transitional step to help her get used to having her feet covered. The socks have a stay-put strap and a non-skid, anti-slip bottom that make them ideal for beginning walkers. They help to keep baby’s feet warm, though they may not be the best choice for colder days. The combed cotton, nylon, and Spandex socks are machine-washable.

Tags Baby, Baby Products, Baby Socks, Socks

Newborn Baby Products Newborn Baby Toys

Best toys for newborns

Post author By
Post date September 13, 2022

Newborn babies can’t see well, can’t sit unsupported, and can’t grab objects. But they still like being entertained and appreciate toys pitched at their developmental level. The key is to buy toys that can be used by babies at their current age and stage while encouraging further exploration and skill sharpening.

Best newborn toy overall

Fisher-Price Deluxe Kick & Play Piano Gym

Fisher Price

Promotes: Gross motor skills and sensory development

Fisher-Price’s Kick & Play consistently wins best-toy competitions because it’s fun for babies at many ages and stages. Newborns can lie either on their back or their tummy while they try to grab the hanging toys and kick at the piano. Once your baby grows enough to use her hands purposefully, she can explore the toys attached to the mat’s loops on her tummy. When she gets bigger still, the Kick & Play’s piano detaches and can be used for musical games that teach colors, shapes, and numbers and even allow her to compose her own tunes.

Best book for newborns

Indestructibles – Baby Faces

Baby Faces

Promotes: Social development

Babies will stare in awe at the illustrated baby faces in this small, sweet little book that introduces the concept of emotions and the faces that accompany them. Even better, Indestructibles are made for babies to grab, pull, tear, chew, and drool on – they refuse to come apart, and if they get dirty, these waterproof books can be tossed in the washing machine.

Best rattle toy for newborns

Oball Bright Starts Easy-Grasp Shaker

Shaker

Promotes: Fine motor skills and sensory development

Rattles and shakers are classic baby toys because babies love to grab things with their newly operational hands, and are delighted with the noise they can make all by themselves. The perforations in the flexible Oballs make this shaker particularly easy to hold, and the rattling beads inside make a perfectly enchanting jangle.

Best teething toy for newborns

Skip Hop Bandana Buddies Activity and Teething Toy

Toy

Promotes: Fine motor skills and tactile development

All the critters in this popular collection of multifunction toys have a super-sweet expression that babies love, and they’re super-easy for them to hold onto, too. At first, babies may just stare at their new friend and smile; as the weeks go on, they’ll start exploring the toy’s various features: squishy arms and legs and tails, textured whiskers and crinkly ears to tug on, a rattle on one paw, and a choice of two teethers.

Best mirror toy for newborns

Baby Einstein Flip for Art High-Contrast Floor-Activity Mirror

mirror toy

Promotes: Gross motor skills and visual development

Getting babies to lift their heads during tummy time is a cinch with this sturdy mirror designed to sit solidly on its wide base and offer your baby a clear, undistorted view of his own wonderful face. Even if he bats at the baby-safe mirror or bonks it with his head, it resists falling over, and its fabric parts are full of high-contrast colorful patterns for your baby to admire. It also comes with a set of flip-through flashcards, complete with stroller link, to encourage cognitive development with bold patterns and images of objects, animals, and more.

Best sensory toy for newborns

Melissa & Doug Flip Fish Toy

sensory toy

Promotes: Fine motor skills and tactile development

Any toy that offers different textures and parts that move, like flipping back and forth, are toys that 2-month-olds will appreciate. Melissa & Doug’s cheerful, beautiful fish toy is far from the ocean – cute and cuddly, every one of its scales offers a different experience in color, sound, and surface. If it gets dirty, just throw it in the washing machine.

Best lovey for newborns

Hudson Baby Animal Face Security Blanket

lovey

Promotes: Tactile development

A soft stuffy friend can be especially helpful anytime your baby needs a cuddle or gets upset, for example at bedtime, after they get startled, or when you’re out at a new and overwhelming place. Hudson Baby’s ultra-cushy security blanket comes with the sweet face of an animal friend attached: an elephant, as shown here, or 18 others, including a fox, a unicorn, and a narwhal. This particular set also comes with a cozy blanket that can be used for tummy time. Remember to remove all soft bedding and loveys from your baby’s crib or bassinet before sleep.

Tags Baby Products, Newborn Baby, Toy

Newborn Baby Products Nursing & Feeding

Best Baby Thermometers of 2022

Post author By
Post date September 12, 2022

Your baby has been out of sorts all day. When they’re awake, they’re fussing, and when they’re napping, it’s not for long. Are they teething? Having an off day? Or coming down with something? A thermometer can help you gauge what’s up by telling you if your little one has a fever and if a call to your pediatrician might be in order.

Do You Need a Baby Thermometer?

Keep a thermometer handy to take baby’s temperature, and you’ll be able to truly determine if your child needs a dose of medication, to see the pediatrician or just watchful waiting.

When to Call the Doctor if Your Baby Has a Fever

It’s always good to keep in mind when you need to call the doctor for your child’s fever and when it’s okay to let it run its course. Per the experts, you should reach out to your pediatrician if:

Your child is younger than 3 months and has a rectal temperature of 100.4 F (38 C) or higher.
Your child is between the ages of 3 and 6 months and has a rectal temperature up to 102 F (38.9 C) and seems unusually irritable or lethargic, or has a temperature higher than 102 F (38.9 C).
Your child is between the ages of 6 and 24 months and has a rectal temperature higher than 102 F (38.9 C) that lasts longer than one day but shows no other symptoms. If your child is exhibiting other signs and symptoms like a cough, cold, or diarrhea, you may want to call your child’s doctor sooner based on severity. And when in doubt, call.

Below are some thermometers you may want to consider adding to your medicine cabinet.

1.Safety 1st Rapid Read 3-In-1 Thermometer

Why We Love It

This 3-in-1 thermometer lets you take your baby’s temperature orally, under the arm or rectally—which is recommended for children under 3 to get the most accurate reading—so you have options. It takes temperatures in eight seconds, and beeps when it’s finished.