Here’s a gentle option for baby clothes and other delicate apparel! Soak is a rinse-free wash that cleans fabrics in as little as 15 minutes. Use it as a hand wash or in the washer (works in high efficiency models too) to clean your fine apparel items. Available in a variety of delicious scents (even scentless if you prefer) for about $16 depending where you buy. Learn more at www.soakwash.com.
Potty training? The Boon Training Toilet is a slick-looking, functional option. In addition to its drawer style potty catcher, it also has some side storage space for any needed must-haves. Love the built-in toilet paper holder too – smart! Close the lid and you have a sturdy stool as a perfect companion to wash hands and brush teeth. Available in blue and green, $35 at www.booninc.com.
Part organizer, part changing pad, the Parent Pod is an “it” item for parents who looooove storage and functionality! With lots of pockets for all that baby gear, it rolls out for instant access, and rolls up for compact convenience. Tote it like a traditional diaper bag/changing station or hang it full for easy grab sessions. It comes with a wipe case too. Celeb moms like Jennifer Garner, Mel B., and Gwen Stefani dig this line! $49 at www.bellatunno.com.
You may find them too pretty to use! Super absorbent to catch all kinds of projectile surprises, these burping cloths by 3 Marthas are 100% cotton with cutesy appliques. Boy and girl styles come ribbon-ready for a thoughtful gift idea. $12.95 at www.3marthas.com.
No more icky bottles when on the go! Steri-Bottles are ready to use sterile bottles you can reuse or toss when done. Great must-pack if you’re traveling with baby. And, they are completely recyclable. A resealable pouch protects your unused bottles, fast-flow nipples also included. A pack of 5 will cost you $6, pack of 10 costs $10. Available at many Babies R Us locations, learn more at www.steribottle.com.
Here’s a quick and easy reference for the sitter. And we’re talking for babies, pets and even house sitting! With these LobotoMe checklists, jot down feeding times, allergies, important numbers and other valuable info to keep your sitter in the loop. 50 sheets for about $10 at www.lobotome.com.
Diaper changes are a must if you travel with small children. The Dipe N’ Go is an instant portable diaper changing station. Just unroll and you have a comfy mat for baby. Roll back up it’s a slim space saver. Large compartments are a perfect fit for diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream and more. The mat is machine washable and also has a handy velcro backing you can use to secure onto SUV, station wagon or minivan beds. $20 at many Babies R Us locations or at www.amazon.com.
Here’s a way to provide instant protection from UV rays. Sunny Sleevez are a smart option, providing 50+ SPF as soon as you put them on arms or legs. They come in a variety of creative designs and colors for boys and girls. Great idea for kiddos with sensitive skin or who have allergies to sunscreen. You can even use these in the pool! Hand or machine wash. $15 at www.sunnysleevez.com. Adults can sport these too!
Developed by a neonatal nurse, the Snuggin Go infant positioner helps with your baby’s gentle posture for optimized breathing in any sitting position. Use it in the car seat, high chair, stroller or any sitting situation to provide that extra neck and shoulder support. Considered a SIDS reducing product, the Snuggin Go bar adjusts for a custom fit. It’s recommended for babies who weigh at least 4 pounds through one year of age. Machine washable covers available in several styles. About $40 depending where you buy. Learn more at www.snuggingo.com.
Outdoor plans on the horizon? Apply UV protection without the chalky mess! Developed by Pediatrician moms, Baby Silk sunscreen towelettes are safe enough to use on infants. Each towelette is sweat and water resistant, saturated with SPF 30+. This is a handy must-have to keep in the diaper bag! Apply at least 30 minutes before sun exposure. $26 for a pack at select retailers nationwide or at www.mdmoms.com.