BreathableBaby Breathable Mesh Crib Liner (Bumper Alternative) Review & Giveaway (CLOSED 11/17)

Nov 10,2011 / By Maria / 5 Comments

You may have heard about cities and states moving to ban traditional, fluffy crib bumpers. We had heard about the suffocation risks associated with traditional bumpers, and tried to do without one when my son was born 2 1/2 years ago. Alas, we got very little sleep since he managed to scoot himself all over the crib & get his arms and legs caught in the slats. I found this really scary because he couldn’t free himself and couldn’t turn himself over until we pried him out. It was astonishing how tightly he could get a chubby little leg jammed in between the slats! Luckily, I heard of BreathableBaby, and we bought one of their mesh crib bumpers (now called mesh crib liners, to distinguish them from traditional, unsafe bumpers.)

The BreathableBaby technology that reduces the risk of suffocation is based on simple physics. The construction of the tiny fibers that make up BreathableBaby’s spacer-mesh fabric will not allow an airtight seal to be created when it’s compressed, making it virtually impossible for a baby to suffocate. BreathableBaby calls this feature Air Channel Technology™ (A.C.T.™). “The ability of air to move through the Breathable Mesh Crib Liner is obvious because you can see and breathe through the fabric,” says Peter Raynor, Ph.D., a public health professor. “More importantly, the Breathable Mesh Crib Liner permits airflow even when it is compressed. Many bumper and bedding fabrics restrict airflow when compressed, thereby increasing the risk of suffocation for an infant,” added Professor Raynor. The best way to understand A.C.T. technology is through personal experience. BreathableBaby makes A.C.T. kits available to the public – submit a request providing full name, street address, city, state and zip code to: customercare@BreathableBaby.com and BreathableBaby will send you an A.C.T. kit at no charge.

The liners come in 6 solid colors (white, pink, blue, yellow, ecru, brown & sage green) for $29.99 each, plus 3 colors with fashion trims and 6 printed designer themes. These fit all styles cribs, plus BreathableBaby has liners to fit portable cribs, and solid end cribs.

The liners truly are breathable. My husband and I both mashed our noses & mouths (we looked super classy I’m sure!) against the mesh and could breathe just fine. The liners attach easily & securely, but they collapse if your child tries to use them to climb. They are hypoallergenic, promote airflow & prevent suffocation or re-breathing carbon dioxide. They tuck below the mattress so you don’t have to worry about your baby getting stuck under the bumper.

The bumper has a long piece and a short piece, and will fit any standard crib (solid back, oval etc.) It came with really easy to follow instructions, and it took me no time at all to put it on. (I thought it was a funny coincidence how similar our crib looks to the one pictured in the instructions!)

I love the new one even more than the one we bought for our son years ago. The front panel is longer, so you can install it with no gaps at all. It also has a single tie for the middle of each panel to keep it more secure and less likely to slide down. The ties are not excessively long, and are on the outside of the crib.

I didn’t keep the instructions for my old one, so it’s possible that I’ve just done something wrong with my install, but the new one is definitely improved!

Don’t wait for your bumper to be recalled, or for your state to ban them. You can find BreathableBaby mesh crib liners at online and brick & mortar retailers throughout the U.S. and Canada!

Follow BreathableBaby on Twitter, “like” BreathableBaby on Facebook, and subscribe to the BreathableBaby Youtube Channel.

Giveaway: One winner will receive a Breathable Baby mesh crib liner in his/her choice of solid color (ARV $29.99.) Entries go in the Rafflecopter form.

Baby Products BPA Free Eco-Friendly/Green Made in the USA Review

Zoe b Organic – Fantastic Anti-Plastic Dishes Review

Nov 9,2011 / By Maria / 3 Comments

I actually learned about Zoe b Organic because they are the US distributor for Natursutten pacifiers (which I will also be talking about after the baby is here!) The founder, Valerie Lecoeur, considers herself a “green mom” but not an “eco-evangelist” so I am already identifying with the Zoe b brand!

They have fantastic anti-plastic products (not just my opinion, it’s their actual name) including fantastic anti-plastic toys (biodegradable, eco-friendly, BPA free, made in the USA beach toys!) and fantastic anti-plastic dishes, A.K.A. “kidishes!”

OK, so what makes them so special? Well, they’re BPA, PVC and Phthlate free first of all. They are dishwasher safe (they’re not certified microwave safe yet, but they are working on it!) Anti-plastic? Huh? Yep. They’re actually made from a biobased material that comes from American-grown corn! (Specifically, this bioplastic from Mirel™ is made with PHA, a polymer produced by microbial fermentation of sugar.)

The material they use is more heat-resistant than other corn based products, and they are the first & only corn based dishes you can wash in the dishwasher (as much as you like! They are durable!) Despite being so durable, Zoe b’s bioplastic fully biodegrades in 2 to 3 years when buried in soil, immersed in water, home composted, or composted in industrial facilities.

I received a 3 piece fantastic anti-plastic dish set, which includes a bowl, plate and tumbler for $15.99. You can also purchase a set of 3 fantastic anti-plastic bowls or a set of 3 fantastic anti-plastic plates for $18, or a set of 3 fantastic anti-plastic tumblers for $12.

The first thing I noticed is how much they look like actual dishes vs. plastic. Though they are durable and can be thrown, dropped etc., they look much more like ‘big boy” dishes than “baby dishes,” and my son is getting to that age where it matters! They’re also stylish and easy for little hands to hold, with their modern shapes and colors. My son loves them. In fact, he was looking over my shoulder as I was uploading these photos and he pointed and said “that’s mine!” 🙂

You can buy Zoe b products online, or find a store near you!

Be sure to check out the Zoe b blog, Zoe b Organic on Facebook, Zoe b Organic on Twitter, and Zoe b Organic’s YouTube Channel!

FTC compliance: While I did receive a product at no charge for review purposes, I was not compensated for this post and all opinions are my own.

Baby Products Giveaway Review Virtual Baby Shower Event

Serta Royal Sleeper Crib Mattress Review & Organic Mattress Pad Giveaway (CLOSED 11/4)

Oct 28,2011 / By Maria / 5 Comments

I received a Serta Royal Sleeper crib mattress to review for the new baby. My son is using an almost 7 year old crib mattress, which has been in near constant use for those 7 years between my daughter using it in a crib, then toddler bed, then passing it along to him. Don’t worry, we will be buying him a new one for sure!

I’m not even sure what that mattress is, but it’s the typical white/pastel flower print, vinyl exterior, stiff crib mattress. The under side of it (the side my daughter used) is actually cracked. I don’t remember how much it was, maybe $80 or so, but really, it should have been replaced at least 3 times by now!

The mattress is not 100% organic however, it’s an excellent compromise. It has 221 continuous coils for support & durability and fully clipped perimeter border wire for firm edges and balanced support when your baby is standing. 4 corner supports and 2 side flex clips provide additional support. Over the coils, there is an ortho-insulator layer, a layer of organic cotton, then a Serta Fireblocker layer. Everything is covered with a water resistant, hypoallergenic jacquard cover. I haven’t tested the cover to see just how water resistant it is, but I initially didn’t think it was, until I read the packaging. It feels like a lovely mattress, not the plastic you expect from a crib mattress. There are also 6 vents to keep air circulating. The cover is secured with heavy binding and lock stitching.

The mattress I received actually sat in the plastic for a good month+ while we waited for our crib to ship. When we took it out we discovered a small defect where some of the lock stitching was missed. I contacted the company (the mattresses are actually made by Lajobi) not expecting much…the mattress was “free” after all, but I did want to let them know. I received a speedy response and they replaced the mattress for me! Excellent, courteous and professional customer service.

The Serta Royal Sleeper is sold at Babies R Us with a list price of $159.99. At the time I’m writing this, it’s on sale for $129.99, and there’s an additional $20 off $125 savings. I’m sure that will be over by the time this post is published, but if you’re on their mailing list, you will likely have a 20% off coupon to use! Anyway my point is that while this mattress seemed pricey at first, you can really get it for about the same as the “cheap” crib mattresses, and it is so much nicer. I don’t doubt that it will last through crib and toddler bed use, as opposed to our “cheapie” mattress, that didn’t make it through my daughter’s crib days intact.

The mattress is a standard crib mattress size, and will fit in both cribs and toddler beds. Since it is water resistant but not water proof I think I will buy a Serta Organic Mattress Cover like the one I have to give away to one of you! The cover retails for $24.99, and is 52″ x 28″ and fitted. It’s elasticized end to end so it doesn’t shift, is PVC and Phthlate free and machine washable. The top is 100% organic quilted cotton and the underside is 100% waterproof!

~~Giveaway: I have a Serta Organic Crib Mattress pad to send one winner! (ARV $24.99.) Entries go in the Rafflecopter form.~~

Baby Products Giveaway Review Virtual Baby Shower Event

SwaddleDesigns Swaddle Duo Review & Giveaway (CLOSED 11/1) US/Canada

Oct 25,2011 / By Maria / 157 Comments

Founded by Lynette Damir, RN, in 2002, SwaddleDesigns was the first company to introduce the large square swaddling blanket to the US and many countries around the world. SwaddleDesigns is known for their premium quality fabric, fabulous colors and prints, decorative edge, and the innovative 123 Swaddle® instructional label that helps new parents master the art of swaddling. SwaddleDesigns swaddling blankets are perfect for swaddling and have many uses such as a privacy throw for breastfeeding moms, a tummy time play mat and a cover over the stroller.

SwaddleDesigns strives to help new parents care for their baby by providing accurate and up-to-date information, so parents may make informed choices. SwaddleDesigns Safe Sleep Program includes recommendations from the AAP and the NIH as the company strives to increase awareness of Safe Sleep practices and help parents reduce risk of SIDS.

According to leading SIDS researchers, both overheating AND overchilling are risk factors for SIDS. In addition, it’s important for parents to understand that when baby is too cool during sleep, baby will use valuable energy to stay warm instead of growing and thriving. Over the past few years some juvenile product companies have over focused on overheating as a SIDS risk factor, and there has been a lack of balanced conversation regarding insufficient thermal insulation – the danger of baby being too cool – as a risk factor for SIDS. It is time for a balanced information where parents are educated and reminded of their important responsibility to make sure baby is not too hot or too cold, but comfortably warm.

The SwaddleDesigns Goldilocks Guide™ says baby should not be too hot, or too cold, but just right ~ comfortably warm. The Goldilock’s Guide helps new parents remember the importance of keeping baby comfortably warm. Visit the SwaddleDesigns Safe Sleep page to learn more about Safe Sleep Practices and the SwaddleDesigns Goldilocks Guide.

SwaddleDesigns is best known for their Ultimate Receiving Blanket and Marquisette Swaddling Blanket, and they are now introducing the SwaddleDuo.

SwaddleDuo offers two premium, yet different, baby soft cotton swaddling blankets – two swaddle blankets in a wonderful gift box:

The Ultimate Receiving Blanket® is a lightweight premium cotton flannel blanket – for moderate to cooler environmental temperatures

The Marquisette Swaddling Blanket® is a very lightweight openweave cotton blanket – for warmer environmental temperatures

With the SwaddleDuo, parents will be prepared for a variety of environmental settings – cool, moderate and warm

SwaddleDesigns Cotton Marquisette is similar to muslin but is made from premium quality yarns.

SwaddleDesigns Cotton Flannel is made from premium preshrunk domestic cotton.

Swaddling instructions are sewn right to the blanket, and you can also visit their “How to Swaddle” page to view “How to Swaddle” and more information regarding sleeping environments and the benefits of swaddling.

SwaddleDesigns sent me the Swaddle Duo “modern duo” in lime with brown

The blankets are packaged perfectly for gift giving, are soft and generously sized. I can’t wait to swaddle the new baby!

The SwaddleDuo is available in 17 styles with MSRP of $38, so you’re sure to find one you love!

Follow SwaddleDesigns on Twitter and “like” SwaddleDesigns on Facebook. Facebook fans get the inside scoop, previews of new collections and Fan discounts. SwaddleDesigns would love for you to leave a comment on their Facebook wall stating your favorite print or product!

Join SwaddleDesigns’ exclusive email club and get the inside scoop for special offers (and receive a promotional code in your email for 10% off full priced items in your first purchase!)

~~Giveaway: One winner will receive a SwaddleDesigns swaddle duo classic peace love swaddle duo in blue or pink (ARV $38.) Entries go in the Rafflecopter form.~~

Baby Products Giveaway Natural Personal Care Products Review Virtual Baby Shower Event

Exederm Ultra Sensitive Skincare for Baby & Eczema Review & Giveaway (CLOSED 10/31)

Oct 24,2011 / By Maria / 17 Comments

Exederm makes ultra-sensitive skincare with the mildest ingredients possible (no fragrance, lanolin, parabens, propylene glycol, colors, dyes, sodium laureth sulfate, cocamidopropyl betaine or phthlates), to help the most delicate skin types (including those with eczema or dermatitis.)

They have a full line of products for adults in addition to the baby products I reviewed. Exederm received the “seal of acceptance” award from the National Eczema Association, and all 5 baby products received a 5/5 rating from the review panel! The Exederm website has lots of resources and information, including tips and information about irritants.

My son has extremely sensitive skin, and it became pretty apparent this year that he also suffers from eczema. I was lucky enough (sarcasm) to inherit eczema from my Dad. I had it on my arms as a baby, but now I mostly get it on my hands. It is worst in winter (my hands and knuckles crack and bleed) but for some reason it’s not nearly as bad if I am pregnant or newly breastfeeding. My dermatologist told me to stick with incredibly mild skin care products, free of fragrances, dyes or chemicals. To use soap/cleansers only when necessary, don’t use very hot water, and to apply moisturizers while skin is still damp.

The same “rules” of course apply to caring for my son’s skin, and Exederm fits the bill.

My son’s eczema is mostly on his upper arms and lower legs. I had a hard time getting photos of it; it is far worse than it looks in the photos! The biggest problem is that he just won’t leave it alone. From experience, I know it’s terribly itchy, but it can’t heal with him constantly scratching at it.

The first product we tried is the hydrating baby lotion.

It doesn’t contain any potentially allergenic ingredients like botanical extracts, nut oils or herbal additives. There is no fragrance, color, dyes, parabens, lanolin, SLS or SLES, propylene glycol, formaldehyde, or phthlates.

Ingredients: Water, petroleum, capric triglyceride, glyceryl stearate, stearic acid, palmitic acid, glycerin, ceteareth-20, sodium benzoate, phenoxyethanol, citric acid

The lotion is lightweight and easily absorbed. My son let me put it on his arms & legs, and didn’t freak out (which says a lot!) My daughter used some too, and she said that it smelled like my yummy homemade bread (LOL.) It is fragrance free, but I suppose it has the slightest scent from the ingredients. A 6 ounce bottle of the lotion retails for $14.99.

Next up is the intense baby moisturizer.

Just like the lotion, it doesn’t contain fragrance, color, dyes, parabens, lanolin, SLS or SLES, propylene glycol, formaldehyde, or phthlates.

Ingredients: Water, petroleum, capric triglyceride, glyceryl stearate, stearic acid, palmitic acid, glycerin, ceteareth-20, sodium benzoate, phenoxyethanol, citric acid

It has a very thick texture, like a stiff mousse or a whipped body butter. I used it on the driest areas of my son’s skin only, and I only needed the tiniest bit. A 4 ounce jar retails for $14.99.

Next we used the non-irritating baby shampoo. My husband said it’s false advertising because all babies are at least a little irritating sometimes, no such thing as a non-irritating baby. Tee-hee!

I’m getting repetitive here, but the shampoo does not contain fragrance, color, dyes, parabens, lanolin, SLS or SLES, propylene glycol, formaldehyde, or phthlates.

Ingredients: Purified water, decyl glucoside, glycerin, xanthan gum, disodium cocoamphodiacete, phenoxyethanol, caprylyl glycol, polyquaterium-10, guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride, EDTA, citric acid

My son had cradle cap for a long time, and still suffers from scaly patches on his scalp now and again. It honestly never occurred to me to use a shampoo designed for children with eczema, but it makes perfect sense. Even if they don’t suffer from dermatitis or the like on their scalp, the shampoo is still going to end up all over their bodies, and in the bath water they’re sitting in. My husband did remark that it wasn’t particularly foamy, but I explained that it doesn’t have any of the nasty chemicals that make shampoos foam! It rinsed out well and left my son’s hair clean. An 8 ounce bottle retails for $12.99.

The cleansing baby bath is next.

Are you one step ahead of me yet? No fragrance, color, dyes, parabens, lanolin, SLS or SLES, propylene glycol, formaldehyde, or phthlates.

Ingredients: Purified water, glycerin, disodium cocoamphodiacete, decyl glucoside, disodium cocoglucoside sulfosuccinate, xanthan gum, phenoxyethanol, caprylyl glycol, tetrasodium EDTA, sodium chloride, citric acid

Just like the shampoo, it doesn’t make loads of suds, but it lathers enough, rinses easily and doesn’t leave residue. An 8 ounce bottle with pump (which I LOVE, it makes it SO much easier to hold a baby and wash at the same time!) retails for $12.99.

The last of the products I tried was the flare control cream. It is America’s only paraben-free hydrocortisone cream, and is the maximum strength available without a prescription. It is also the first and only hydrocortisone product to receive the National Eczema Association’s Seal of Acceptance with a perfect 5 out of 5 score.

No fragrance, color, dyes, parabens, lanolin, SLS or SLES, propylene glycol, phthlates or formaldehyde.

Ingredients:
Active Ingredient: Hydrocortisone acetate USP 1%
Inactive ingredients: (base) caprylic/capric triglyceride, caprylyl glycol, ceteareth-20, anthemis nobilis, citric acid, glycerin, glyceryl stearate, palmitic acid, petrolatum, phenoxyethanol, stearic acid, purified water

I thought this was quite different than other hydrocortisone creams I’ve used. It wasn’t at all sticky or goopy. My son let me put it on his “boo-boos” before bed, and between the flare cream, lotion and intense moisturizer, it looked noticeably better in the morning. A 2 ounce tube retails for $14.99.

If your child (or you for that matter) has ultra-sensitive skin, eczema or dermatitis, you should definitely try Exederm!!

Buy any 3 products from Exederm.com and receive 20% off with coupon code “save20.” Orders over $50 receive free shipping to the U.S. or Canada too! The children’s products are available at lots of brick & mortar and online retailers while the standard/adult line is only available from Amazon.com or directly from Exederm at this time.

Giveaway: One winner will receive the same package of Exederm Products I reviewed (5 full-size products.) Includes 8 oz. non-irritating baby shampoo (ARV $12.99), 8 oz. cleansing baby bath (ARV $12.99), 6 oz. hydrating baby moisturizer (ARV $14.99), 4 oz. intensive baby moisturizer (ARV $14.99) and 2 oz. flare cream (ARV $14.99.) Combined retail value is $70.95. Entries go in the Rafflecopter form.

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Category : Baby Products

BreathableBaby Breathable Mesh Crib Liner (Bumper Alternative) Review & Giveaway (CLOSED 11/17)

Zoe b Organic – Fantastic Anti-Plastic Dishes Review

Serta Royal Sleeper Crib Mattress Review & Organic Mattress Pad Giveaway (CLOSED 11/4)

SwaddleDesigns Swaddle Duo Review & Giveaway (CLOSED 11/1) US/Canada

Exederm Ultra Sensitive Skincare for Baby & Eczema Review & Giveaway (CLOSED 10/31)

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