Buying Guides for High Chairs

Basics

A High Chair is an essential piece of baby equipment that all new parents need. A High Chair can be used from the first months of life providing that it reclines far enough to support your newborn while feeding. Afterwards, use it for first time solid food feedings or just to bring him close to the table at mealtimes.

The type of highchair your choose will depend on your personal style, needs and preferences. Remember also that your child's eating habits, age and weight will also determine the type of highchair you choose.

Types

Adjustable: The Adjustable Highchair, is the most popular choice for today's busy parent. These high chairs feature adjustable heights, seats and trays to accommodate your growing baby, different sized tables or to bring baby down to your seated level making for easier feeding. Some other convenient features include wide removable plastic trays for those messy eaters and rolling caster wheels that lock so you can easily move the chair around the kitchen. Padded and cushioned seats make it easy for your little one to enjoy his meal in comfort. For small or narrow kitchens, many designs fold up easily for storage and portability.

Booster: Once your baby outgrows the highchair, you will need a Booster Seat.

A Booster Seat is usually a plastic chair that can be strapped to a kitchen chair. It gives your child a boost so she can eat comfortably at the kitchen table with the grown-ups. Many feature adjustable heights, built-in trays with locks and some even fold up for easy portability for dining out.

Conventional: The Conventional Highchair has a contemporary design and features the basic elements needed to feed your baby. Made of a metal or plastic frame, it includes a plastic tray and safety straps. It's lightweight design makes it extremely portable and they usually fold for easy storage. This is most basic of all the three types of highchairs out on the market today.

Wooden: Many parents like the traditional style of a Wooden Highchair because its design complements the look of their kitchens. Models include either a plastic or wooden tray. A wooden tray is harder to clean and may show stains. You may have to even purchase a safety strap, as may of the older models do not include one. A padded cushion may also have to be purchased separately as the hard wood will not be comfortable your baby. Wooden high chairs are harder to sanitize, and will show wear more quickly. However, they ultimately tend to last longer, and can be passed them down from generation to generation.

Features

Adjustable Tray: A tray that adjusts to one or more positions will make it easier to make your child comfortable as he grows while a wide tray that covers the entire area will catch most spills. One hand operation for removing and attaching the tray is key when feeding time comes around.

Locking Mechanism: A foldable highchair should feature a secure locking mechanism to prevent it from collapsing while your child is seated inside.

Maintenance: Removable and washable seat padding will make it easier for parents to keep their highchair sparkling clean. The vinyl seat padding should resist staining and tears. Your highchair should not feature many small crevices or areas, which could trap food and make it difficult to clean.

Restraint: A good quality highchair should include a three-point harness safety strap that passes in between your baby's legs to prevent him from slipping under the tray. Newer model highchairs feature a plastic restraint and five-point safety harness for optimum safety and protection.

Rolling Casters: Rolling wheels that lock make it easy to move the highchair around the kitchen or to the dining room.AccessoriesAttachable Toys can be placed and attached to the highchair to distract baby while you feed her. Some toys attach by way of suction cups while others fit into the highchair tray.

Messy Mats are large plastic mats that are placed under your child's highchair to catch all of the meal remnants that make it past the highchair.

Age Range

Fully reclining high chairs can be used for bottle-feeding your baby as soon as he is born. If you do not purchase a high chair that fully reclines, you will not need one until your baby can sit up unassisted (around the age of 4 to 6 months) or is ready for solid food. You will use it until your baby can sit at the table and feed herself. Look for a booster seat when your child has outgrown the high chair and begins sitting at the table.

Safety Tips

Do not rely on the feeding tray to secure your baby. A safety strap should be used to strap your baby securely during feeding time.

Your high chair should be located away from the table, counter or wall.

Never allow your baby to stand up in the chair, as it may tip and fall over.

There should be no exposed hardware or sharp edges to pinch your child's legs.

Read the manufacturer's instructions for proper use of your high chair.

Keep your eye out for product recalls. If possible, register your high chair with the manufacturer so that you can receive safety updates.

Your highchair's base should be wide enough to provide support and prevent tipping.

Secure any locking mechanisms before you place your baby in the chair to prevent accidental buckling.

The safety tray should be able to withstand your baby's weight should he ever lean on it.

Cost Range

Your basic Conventional Highchair ranges in price from about $60, while Adjustable Highchairs start at about $100. As the price increases so will the features that are included such as padded seats and one or more adjustable settings on the tray and seat.

Wooden high chairs are more expensive because of the wood used to make them, but they also last longer than conventional chairs.

Buying Tips

Purchase a padded high chair cushion if you plan to use a wood highchair. It will make feeding more comfortable for your baby.

Purchase a safety strap as many of the older model wooden chairs do not include one.

A highchair that features a tray with one hand adjustment will leave one arm free to hold your baby.

Removable, washable seat padding will make it easier to maintain your highchair. Frames and trays that are made of plastic easily wipe clean.

Rolling wheels with reliable brakes let you move the chair quickly around the kitchen or dining room.

For smaller kitchens, look for a highchair that folds down easily and compactly.

Diaper Bags Buying Guide

Diaper bags are available in a wide variety of styles, colors, patterns and brands to choose from costing anywhere from $20 to upwards of over $200! If you are in the market for a diaper bag use this quick reference guide to help you choose the right diaper bag for your needs.

Choosing the right diaper bag not only depends on your personal taste but also on your lifestyle. Your diaper bag may serve as a carryall for quick trips to the store or as a diaper bag that holds all of the essentials your baby may need for an entire day out at the sitters. Whether you have your eye on a certain brand or certain fabric pattern, keep in mind that your diaper bag will be savior to keeping your baby happy and content while away from home, all within hands reach at any given moment. It is not hard to choose the right diaper bag; you may even see the necessity for having more than one!

Finding just the right diaper bag for your and your baby’s needs is not difficult; it just takes a little research and deciding what features suit your lifestyle. What kind do I need? Are you a full time working parent or a stay at home parent? Do you frequently travel with your baby for quick trips out or long weekends? These are important questions to ask you’re yourself. The frequency and length of any outdoor travels with your baby will determine the size and the style of diaper bag you will need.

Bag: The traditional diaper bag is the most common form of diaper bag you find on the market. A traditional diaper bag is most commonly square in shape and features a long handle to carry on your shoulder. The closures on the traditional diaper bag may vary from zippers to snaps and even Velcro. The traditional diaper bag is available in a variety of sizes; smaller for quick trips to the store holding a bottle and a few diapers to much larger holding changes of clothes, bottles and food holders and accessories to keep everything organized.

Tote: A diaper tote is smaller diaper bag that sometimes features less pockets and accessories than traditional diaper bags. A diaper tote commonly features two handles and is most similar looking to a woman’s pocket book. The handles on the diaper tote is available in short and long versions to be worn over the shoulder or carried in your hand. The diaper tote is quickly becoming a trend for most new moms because it is available in such a wide variety of fabrics, colors and even in leather.

Backpack: The diaper backpack is the most common form of diaper bag preferred by new fathers. The diaper backpack most resembles the backpacks worn by children going to school or hikes on the trail. The diaper backpack features two straps, one going over each shoulder and carried on the back, leaving both hands free. Diaper backpacks are available in a wide variety of colors and fabrics. Many feature many pockets and accessories to help keep all of your babies essentials organized. Most dads prefer this diaper bag because is does not resemble a traditional diaper bag. Sling: The sling diaper bag features a single strap that is meant to be worn over the shoulder.

The sling diaper bag has many of the same features as the backpack but with only one strap. Messenger: The messenger bag is newest form of diaper bag on the market today. A messenger diaper bag includes many of the same features of a backpack with only one long wide strap. The messenger bags are meant to be worn over the shoulder and across the body with the weight of the bag distributed along the length of the back and not on the shoulders. When worn, the messenger style diaper bag leaves both hands free. What features do I look for? Material:

Choosing your diaper bag material is important because it will determine the longevity of the bag. It is important to think about how often you will be using your diaper bag. Pretty, satin light colored fabrics will be prone to staining and wear and tear more so than nylon and leather styles.

Changing Pad: Most diaper bags include a changing pad. It is important to check the size of the changing pad. A changing pad with a cover will make it easier for your change your baby. It is very important to make sure that the changing pads can be cleaned easily by changing the cover or wiped clean.

Pockets: A variety of pockets are essential to holding, food, diapers, wipes and ointments and creams. These pockets will come in handy when looking for quick change essentials.

Bottle Holders: Bottle holders are a necessity in any diaper bag for keeping baby bottles from leaking and otherwise getting thrown around in the diaper bag. An insulated bottle holder is extremely handy for keeping baby bottles cool until ready to use.

Straps: It is important to look for padded straps. Carrying around a full stocked diaper bag is no easy task, so making sure that straps are well padded are comfortable will leave you with less shoulder or backache in the future.

Patterns or Colors: Picking the perfect color or pattern of diaper bags is not as important as who is going to be using the diaper bag. Most dads prefer to not be lugging around a pretty floral paisley diaper bag around town. However, a trendy understated neutral colored messenger bag may be the perfect gift for that picky dad. What accessories are great to have?

Dirty Duds Pouch: A dirty duds pouch holds dirty clothes, messy bibs , washcloths and burp cloths away from all of the clean clothes in your diaper bag. Once you are home, just empty this pouch into the washing machine.

Pacifier Holder: This is a much needed accessory for parents with a pacifier toting baby. A pacifier pouch keeps it keep and away from other germ ridden items in your diaper bag. It is also a good place to store a spare pacifier in case of an emergency.

Insulated Bag or Pocket: Insulated bags or pockets are important for keeping food and bottles cool until ready for use.

Cell Phone Pocket/Parents Pockets/Organizers: If your diaper bag is going to be used to store parent’s essentials as well as baby’s essentials, parent organizers are a necessity. Most parent organizers include a cell phone pocket, key holder or pocket, pocket to keep a wallet and even a pen holder.

Stroller Straps: Many diaper bags now include two straps at the top of the bag to attach to your strollers handle bars. If your stroller does not feature an underneath basket to hold bags and packages, this accessory is for you.

How much will it cost?

Diaper bags range in price from $20 to even over $200, depending on the fabrics, materials and accessories included. You may want to choose a smaller diaper bag for quick outings and a larger diaper bag for long day or weekend trips.

Quick Tips:
Never hang an overloaded diaper bag on the handlebars of your stroller. Your stroller may tip backward posing potential hazard to your baby.

Keep your diaper bag well stocked and replace used items when you get home to always have a diaper bag ready to go.

Check out The Essential Well Stocked Diaper Bag as your reference to keeping your diaper bag stocked with everything your baby needs.

Using these tips will narrow down the choices and help you find the right diaper bag fit for your lifestyle. Once you have chosen the perfect bag, keep it well stocked and you and your baby will be happy during your outdoor adventures.

Buying Guides for Mattresses

Crib Mattress is one of the most important purchases you will make for your baby. Not only will your baby spend more than 50% of his time on this mattress, it will provide the support he needs for his growing body. A quality mattress is key, considering your baby will use it until he is about 3 years old.

A crib mattress should be made of high quality materials, be very supportive and meet the needs of both you and your baby.

Types

Foam: One major advantage of a Foam Mattress is that is weighs significantly less that an Innerspring/Coil Mattress. This makes it easier for a parent to lift the mattress to change sheets. A good quality from mattress features high density. High density measures the total amount of weight of the crib mattress. The higher the density of a foam mattress, the better.

Innerspring/Coil: An Innerspring/Coil Mattress will last over time better than a foam mattress. The four major parts of an Innerspring/Coil Mattress are the innerspring unit, the insulator, the cushioned layers and the cover. The innerspring unit should have the most and thickest amount of coils, usually about 150 or more. Your mattress should also include a sturdy edge rod, which will provide edge support and prolong its life. The insulator prevents the soft cushioning from sinking into the many coils. The cushioned layers sit on top of the insulator pad and may be made of foam or natural cotton.

Features

Cover: The mattress cover, also called "ticking", determines the life expectancy of the mattress. Mattresses covered with a single layer are less expensive than those with multiple layers. Keep in mind that vinyl tears more easily than nylon. A good quality mattress should have a cover comprised of two or more layers. One layer should be made of a heavy-gauge nylon and bonded to a waterproof material. Heavy-gauge binding stitches should secure the top and bottom cover panels to the side panels.

Firmness: Safety experts recommend a firm mattress for your newborn. A high density Foam Mattress will give you better quality and overall firmness. An Innerspring/Coil Mattress’ firmness can be measures by the amount of coils it contains.

Accessories

Baby Bedding is available in many styles and collections to suit your individual needs and decor. A four-sided bumper should surround your crib to protect your infant from the crib rails. Crib Sheets are available in a wide variety of colors and are even included in collection sets. Your crib sheet should be fitted and fit taut around your mattress. Crib Wedges position your baby either on his side or back for support and help him breath easier while he sleeps. Waterproof Mattress Pads, available either fitted or zippered, extend the life of your mattress and make it more comfortable for your baby to sleep.

Safety Tips
Do not place a comforter or pillow in a crib with your newborn. It poses a suffocation risk.
Never use any kind of plastic to waterproof the mattress. It too poses a suffocation risk.

There should be no more than two-fingers width between the edge of the baby crib mattress and the side of the crib. Your child could slip through, causing serious injury.

Every area of the mattress is a potential sleeping surface, so the mattress should be consistent in its firmness. Feel the mattress to see that there are no soft spots and that it is firm at the edges.

Cost Range

A high density Foam Mattress ranges in price from $80 to $100. A high quality Innerspring/Coil Mattress ranges in price from $75 and can go up as high as $200. The quality and type of mattress you choose will determine the price.

Buying Tips
Look for a nylon-reinforced cover as it prolongs the life of the mattress.
Measure the crib for mattress size before you buy your mattress. Although most standard cribs measure 51 5/8 inches by 27 ¼ inches, some older cribs may have different dimensions. A crib mattress should also not be more than six inches high.

Check at edges and at center for any soft spots.

Vent holes should be located on either side of the mattress to allow odors to escape, keeping your mattress fresh.

Buying Guides for Changing Tables

Basics
A Changing table provides a safe, convenient and sanitary place for you to change your baby's diaper. Your personal style with regard to look and finish will decide which changing table is for you. Changing tables are available in matching baby furniture collections to coordinate your entire nursery. Your changing table should be sturdy, well padded and include safety straps and guardrails to protect your baby from injury.

Types
Combination Style: This type of changing table offers the most storage space of all. It has both shelves and drawers, so you have lots of storage space and easy accessibility to everything you need. A vinyl changing pas is included but covers will have to be purchased separately.
Dresser Drawer: A changing table with dresser drawers offers a good deal of storage space. A vinyl changing pad is included but covers will have to purchased separately. When your child outgrows the table, you can continue to use it for extra storage space.

Open Shelves: A changing table with open shelves is extremely convenient because everything you need to change your baby is within reach and view. A vinyl changing pad is included but covers will have to purchased separately.

Accessories
Changing Pads can be purchased separately and are available in a wide variety of sizes and thicknesses. There are four types of changing pads: vinyl, cloth, contoured and disposable.

Changing Pad Covers are available in a wide variety of colors and make any changing pad comfortable for your baby.

Cloth Changing Pads are safe to throw in the washer/dryer. It is important, however, that any cloth pad have a waterproof layer on the reverse side o help keep the changing table sanitized.
Contoured Changing Pads may be placed on a changing table or a dresser to convert it to a changing station. This particular pad features contoured sides to keep your baby from rolling over and off the table.

Diaper Organizers are available to keep diapers at arm's reach.

Disposable Changing Pads are available in multi packs and can thrown away ideal while on the go. These pads feature waterproof backings to keep liquids from leaking through.
Organizers hold all your changing needs and keep them organized.

Vinyl Changing Pads are convenient because they wipe clean easily and you can use them just about anywhere.

Wipe Warmers heat wipes to a comfortable temperature for your baby.

Age Range
You will use your changing table for about two years, from the day you bring baby home to when he or she is toilet trained. Purchase extra Changing Table Covers to throw in the wash to keep the changing area clean.

Safety Tips NEVER leave your baby unattended on the table. Before you change your baby's diaper, make sure everything you need is within reach such as washcloths, diapers, ointment, etc. Always used safety straps and keep one hand on your baby while changing. If your changing table does not have one, purchase them separately or with your changing pad. Check the weight limitations on your changing table as different babies grow at different rates. Construction varies with every table and some hold more weight than others.

Cost Range
Changing tables typically cost between $90 and $200. If you spend a little more money, you'll get the added convenience of extra storage space and finer wood. You can purchase additional changing pads for as little as $10 depending on the type you choose. Changing Table Covers usually cost about $10 to $15 depending on the manufacturer, material and shape.

Buying Tips

Make sure your changing table is sturdy and does not wobble. Check the height of the changing table. It should be a waist height to provide a comfortable level for you to change your baby. A changing table that offers drawers and shelves will be useful while you dress your baby. A changing table with dresser drawers should have metal glides. The metal glides will prevent the drawers from completely sliding out. Look for a pad that suits your needs. Contoured pads provide extra safety if you have an active baby. Cloth pads provide the most comfort, but vinyl pads provide the most convenience. Busy parents should look into disposable pads for on the go.

Buying Guides for Strollers

Basics
Strollers are a safe and easy way to transport your baby. With all of the different strollers on the market, deciding which stroller is right for you can be overwhelming. First, you must decide whether you need a single stroller, which holds only one child, or a double or triple stroller for more children. From there, you can find the perfect stroller to fit your lifestyle.

Types
Lightweight: Convenience strollers weigh less than 15 pounds and fold easily and compactly – perfect for on the go. Most have an aluminum frame, so they are lightweight, durable and easy to transport. Although some lightweight strollers offer a full recline, most only recline partially and are therefore not appropriate for use with newborns. Lightweight strollers also do not offer the comfort of standard Single Strollers. Many parents find them more useful for quick errands or travel than for long walks.

Single Strollers: The typical Single Stroller weighs between 13 and 30 pounds with an average of about 15. Full-size Single Strollers are comfortable and sturdy. They usually have plush fabric with plenty of padding, and the seats recline to three or four different positions. On some strollers, the handle heights are reversible so that the stroller doubles as a carriage. Carriage strollers are Single Strollers in which the baby lies down and faces the driver. Carriages also have large wheels and offer the smoothest ride. However, they are not as portable as other strollers. Most Single Strollers usually have a large canopy good for protecting your child from the sun.

Umbrella Strollers: Umbrella strollers get their name from the design of their handles, which resemble that of an umbrella. They also have a durable yet lightweight aluminum frame, and some Umbrella Strollers can weigh as little as 5 pounds. They are ideal for travel, and fold quickly and compactly to fit down the aisles of an airplane or city bus. However, these strollers do not normally recline and are not recommended for newborns. Use your umbrella stroller once your baby can sit up by himself, around 6 months.

Double Strollers: Designed for two children, the Double Stroller makes it simple to tote both children comfortably. There are two different types, the “tandem” and the “side-by-side.” Tandem Strollers, in which one child sits behind the other, usually have deeper seats that are better for infants. These are more maneuverable and often more practical, as the narrow design permits the stroller to pass through smaller areas, such as shopping aisles. Side-By-Side Strollers allow children to enjoy each other's company as they sit. They are lightweight and fold easily and compactly. Most fit through doorways but do not offer the ease of maneuverability that tandem strollers do.

Travel Systems: A Travel System is a combination stroller/car seat. The system includes an infant car seat that can be attached to the stroller while your child is still a newborn. This allows parents to move their baby from a vehicle to the stroller quickly and easily without removing him from the car seat. Babies face the driver of the stroller in most travel systems, but there are some models that allow the baby to face either direction. Most travel systems are compact for easy storage and portability. When your baby outgrows the car seat, you can use the system exclusively as a stroller.

Features
Canopy: Most strollers and carriages include a canopy to protect your child from the elements. Some canopies feature one or more adjustable positions and are even fully retractable. Others have a see-through mesh or plastic window on top to view your child while traveling.

Frame: Strollers are made from either plastic, steel or aluminum. Plastic or aluminum frames are more lightweight; however, steel is the most durable.

Front Bar: Front armbars give your child a place to lean or hold a snack tray or toy accessories. Some models have armbars that are padded, removable and adjustable as your baby grows.

Harness: All strollers feature either a three-point or a five-point harness to keep your child safely in the seat. A five point harness features a chest clip is the best and safest harness type to use.

Recline: A stroller that features a fully reclining seat is appropriate for newborns who cannot support their heads by themselves and need to be in lying position. Other recline positions are appropriate for your growing baby to take naps. Use the fully upright position once your baby is able to support his head to see the world around him.

Storage: Some strollers include a storage basket underneath or mesh pocket on the back of the seat to hold necessities and/or a diaper bag. The size of the stroller will dictate the amount of storage space you will get.

Accessories
Accessory Bars attach to the stroller's handles enabling a parent to hang essentials or hold drinks.

Attachable Toy and Activity Bars are useful in keeping your baby entertained and occupied while strolling.

Infant Headrests are available in a wide variety of colors for preemies and infants, which help support a baby's head and neck during the first couple months of life.

Rain Shields and Netting are important in covering the stroller completely to protect your baby from the elements and are available for single, carriage and Double Strollers.

Stroller Connectors let you attach two Umbrella Strollers together to stroll two children at once.

Age Range
Use a stroller that includes a fully reclining seat with an infant head support for an infant. A stroller with multiple reclining seat positions is suitable for older babies. If you purchase a semi-reclining stroller, you'll begin using it at about 4 months. Once your baby has control of head movements. You will probably use your stroller until your child reaches 3 or 4 years old.

Safety Tips

Always fasten the safety belt when your child is in the stroller.
Make sure reclining strollers do not tip backward.
Be careful when folding the stroller to avoid accidental injuries to your child.
Make sure your stroller doesn't have any small parts or jagged edges.
Don't place items such as purses or shopping bags over the handles which could cause the stroller to tip.
Make sure your stroller is locked to avoid accidental folding.
Apply the wheel brakes when the stroller is not moving.
Keep your eye out for product recalls. They are essential to your baby's safety. Most manufacturers let you register your stroller so that you can periodically receive updates.

Cost Range
Single Strollers range in price from under $50 to over $700. More expensive strollers feature such extras as fully reclining seats, folding canopies, adjustable handlebars, extra storage, washable seat cushions and higher quality fabrics. More money also buys you a more durable frame made of metal instead of plastic, and wheels that wear better. You can purchase a basic carriage for about $100, but some high end designs can run as much as $1000.

Lightweight convenience strollers range in price from under $100 to more than $250. Lower priced strollers usually come with a canopy and seats that semi-recline. As you go up in price, you'll get more features like cushier padding and higher quality fabrics, sturdy aluminum frames and one-hand collapse.

Basic Umbrella Strollers are available for as little as $15. However, a stroller this inexpensive will provide little comfort, minimal safety, and will not come with any extra features. It is best to spend more on a higher quality stroller that will last longer and offer more features and provide safety. For $50 to $70, you can find a reliable umbrella stroller with comfort features such as a canopy, padded seat and storage basket.

Double strollers range in price from about $100 to more than $300. As with any stroller, more features cost more money. You probably won't find a double stroller that fully reclines for less than $100, so you'll need to spend the extra money if you plan to use your stroller for a newborn. As you spend more money, you will get extra features such as removable, washable seat pads and a lightweight metal frame.

Travel systems range in price from about $150 to $200. As with all other strollers, the more you spend, the more features you will get. Look for a system with a car seat that has sufficient infant head support and a reliable harness system. Stroller frames that do not include the car seat are less expensive.

Buying tips


Make sure your stroller has a safety belt and a proper harness system such as a 3 point or a 5 point. Always use the safety belt when your child rides in the stroller.
Make sure the stroller has a wide enough base to prevent tipping. Keep in mind that your child may lean over the side. Also remember not to put shopping bags or purses on the handles of your stroller. This may also cause the stroller to tip.
Wheels are also important in deciding what kind of stroller you need. For easy maneuverability, look for a stroller with wheels that swivel. A good way to test maneuverability is to operate the stroller with one hand.
If you plan on using your stroller for a newborn, purchase one that fully reclines. Newborns need to lie down because they do not have any control of their head movements. Reclining strollers are also great for older children when they want to take a nap. Make sure, however, that reclining strollers do not tip backward.
Make sure your stroller has reliable brakes that are easy to operate. Always apply the brakes when the stroller is not moving.
Weight is also an important factor in deciding which stroller is best for you. Lightweight strollers are very portable but do not offer the comfort of heavier strollers.
To allow for easier transporting and storing, you should buy a stroller that collapses. Make sure that you can close the stroller with at least one arm free to hold your baby. Every collapsible stroller should also have a safety mechanism to prevent the stroller from accidentally folding with your baby inside.
Look for a stroller with adjustable handlebars for parents of various heights.
Removable, washable padding on seats and canopies are useful for avoiding stains.
Some strollers feature front bars for your baby to hold onto while he rides which are removable, as your baby gets older.
Adjustable footrests help support your baby's legs.
Parent and child trays are useful in holding essentials and drinks.

Buying Guides for Play Yards

Basics
Play yards are wonderful because they are such a versatile piece of equipment. Most are compact enough for easy transport. They are great both inside the home and out, and have see-through mesh so your baby can see everything around him. Most also have wheels for easy maneuverability. Your baby can play is his own little space while you take a little time out. Bring the play yard along on visits to Grandma or on trips to the park. It's a safe place to let your baby entertain himself. Play yards are also ideal for travel as a crib for younger babies to nap in. Most fold for easy portability.

Types
Basic: Play yards come with many different features, so you can find one to suit your exact needs. The basic play yard doubles as a playpen and a crib for naps. Although some are made of fabric, most now have mesh netting that makes for easier cleanup. Because Play Yards are frequently used for travel, most fold compactly and also have wheels for easy maneuverability that lock for safety.

Bassinet: While all Play Yards can double as temporary cribs, some Play Yards have built-in bassinets for newborns. The bassinets are designed to hold newborns up until your baby reaches 15 pounds. They are particularly useful for travel with a younger baby, as you do not have to worry about a safe place for your baby to sleep. When your baby outgrows the bassinet, simply remove it to create a play area.

Canopy: If you plan to frequently use your play yard outside, look for one that has a canopy. The canopy protects your baby from the sun's UV rays and provides shade to keep him a little cooler.

Accessories
Changing Stations can be purchased separately if your play yard does not include one. It will give you a convenient but most of all safe and sanitary place to change your baby when you're away from home.

Netting is particularly helpful for outdoor use and protecting your baby during the mosquito months.

Sheets should be purchased separately if you intend to use your play yard as a crib for naps. They will help keep the play yard clean and your baby comfortable.

Age Range
If you buy a play yard with a bassinet, you can begin using the bassinet from birth. The bassinet will hold your baby until he is about 15 pounds. Otherwise, you will probably begin using your play yard as your child begins to crawl, around the age of six months. You'll continue to use it until your baby is about two years old, or 30 pounds.

Safety Tips

NEVER leave your baby unattended in the play yard.
Do not add padding, large toys, or other objects into the play yard that may permit your baby to climb out. Likewise, do not use your play yard with a child who can climb.
Do not leave sheets or bedding in the play yard as it could pose an entanglement risk.
Never leave the side of a play yard down, loose mesh poses an entanglement risk.
Check fabric frequently for tears.
For babies less than 15 pounds, only use the bassinet portion of the play yard.
The mesh holes in your play yard should be no larger than ¼ inch.
Your play yard should have padding around the top rails and corners.
Always make sure your play yard is locked in the open position before putting your baby inside.

Cost Range
A play yard usually runs between $60 to over $200. The more money you spend, the more features you get, such as a canopy, a bassinet or a changing station. More expensive Play Yards also come with nicer fabrics.

Buying Tips


Safety is the most important feature in anything you'll buy for your baby. Only place your infant in a play yard that is sturdy, and doesn't wobble.
Buy a play yard that is easy to set up and take down. Make sure you can fold it with little difficulty. While a play yard should be easy to fold, it should also be sturdy enough so it won't collapse on its own.
Parents' biggest concern is how easy it is to clean. That's why most prefer mesh netting on a play yard. It may not be as comfortable as fabric yards are for your baby, but it's a lot easier to clean and will most likely save you lots of time and hassle in the long run.
Buy a play yard that fits your needs. Think about what you'll use it for, whether you'll use it mostly at home, travel or outdoors.
Remember that part of a tot's nature is an overwhelming sense of curiosity and adventure, so your baby is probably going to try to escape at least once. Make sure your baby can't get loose from his play yard on his own. This is especially true when he's a little older.

Buying Guides for Monitors

Basics
Although a monitor is not a necessity, it can give you the added reassurance of monitoring your baby when you aren't (can't be) in the same room. Monitors allow parents to keep an eye – or an ear – on their child even when they're not in the same room. The location of your baby's nursery will decide which monitor is best suited to your specific needs. You may need a monitor with a wide transmittal range, one that offers interference blockage, one which allows you to view your baby or one that Monitors your baby's movements.

Types
Audio: The basic Audio Monitor lets you listen to your baby from another room. The unit consists of two parts, a transmitter which sits near the baby, and the receiver or parents unit which you take with you from room to room to hear all of your baby's sounds. Some models feature multiple receivers for 2 parents and even a clip to attach the receiver to your belt.

Audio/Movement Monitors: For added reassurance, an Audio/Movement Monitor features a sensor pad to place under your baby's mattress to detect movements and breathing. The unit features 3 parts: a transmitter, receiver or parents unit, and a sensor pad. Although this monitor does detect breathing, it should not be considered a preventional method for SIDS.

Audio/Video: The Audio/Video Monitor allows you to both hear and visually monitor your baby. The unit consists of a small video camera and a black-and-white television set. The camera can be positioned near your baby's crib on a bedside table or wall mounted. The camera records all of the movements and sounds your baby makes and then transmits the information to the screen. Some models feature VCR connections to enable you to permanently record all of your baby's precious movements. Other models use infrared technology, similar to night vision, to enable viewing of your infant in the dark.

Features
Frequency: Audio Monitors transmit sound signals through radio waves and operate on frequencies. Frequency gives you an approximate measurement of how far the transmitter can be away from the receiver and the range at which you will get the least interference. Different Monitors feature channel selections so that you can choose a channel with the least interference. The least expensive Monitors operate on 49 MHz frequency. However, the minimal channel choices will leave you prone to interference from cordless phones and even other nursery Monitors. Monitors operating on 900 MHz are less susceptible to interference and offer a further transmittance than the 49 MHz. The 2.4 GHz offers the widest range possible and is just starting to be used in Audio/Video Monitors.

Low Battery Indicator: Audio Monitors that are battery operated or have rechargeable bases should have a low battery indicator light and/or sound. The light and/or beep will remind you to either change worn batteries or recharge the unit.

Power Source: Transmitters and/or receivers that are battery operated while allowing for easy portability. However, they will cost you more money in long run by having to replace worn out batteries. Some models use rechargeable batteries or A/C adapters. The most efficient feature rechargeable bases for both the transmitter and receiver.

Visual Sound Indicators: Some Monitors feature red indicator lights in a light display or sound bar that flashes each time your baby makes a sound. The longer bar of light indicates a more intense sound. This feature is particularly useful when vacuuming or doing another chore which would prevent you from hearing your baby's cries.

Age Range
Each type of monitor has a different age range. Audio Monitors can be used from newborn through the toddler years. Some models even feature a portable transmitter that be clipped to your ever curious toddler for 2 way communication. Audio/Movement Monitors use sensor pads which limit the monitoring of your baby to the crib. Audio/Video Monitors can monitor your newborn through the toddler years. Although once your little one is mobile, it becomes more difficult to visually monitor your baby using the camera.

Safety Tips
Keep the monitor safely tucked away from your baby and out of reach as the adapter and cords could pose a strangulation risk.
Using a monitor in a bathroom or kitchen could pose electrical hazards if located near water.
Do not leave your baby unattended for extended periods of time, even with the monitor.
Although a monitor is a useful tool, it cannot replace the best monitor of all, you.
Cost Range
Monitors range in price from the low $20's to as high as $400. Audio Monitors start at about $20 for a basic model. The price increases with additional features such as multiple channels and a higher frequency. Audio/Sound Monitors start at $115 and Audio/Video Monitors start at about $200. At any cost, no dollar amount can be placed on the added peace of mind a monitor gives you.

Buying Tips

Purchase a monitor with a rechargeable receiver to avoid spending on batteries that will wear out quickly.
Low battery indicator lights are important for Monitors that run on batteries and rechargeable receivers.
Volume controls are useful for those times when you don't need or want to hear absolutely every slight noise your baby makes.
Lightweight and compact receivers are easily portable and may even include a belt clip.
Research the frequency of each monitor before purchasing to ensure the best reception for your needs. Flexible antennas on both the transmitter and receiver are a good way to ensure a clear signal.
Monitors that feature multiple channels help cut down on interference.
Infrared technology in an Audio/Video Monitor is important if you would like to monitor your baby even in the dark.

Sponsored: Get You Baby Tickers today!