Best Baby Products – Page 13 – Your Baby Preparation Guide

6 Best Baby Halloween Costumes That Are Perfect for 2022

Post author By
Post date September 21, 2022

You only get one or two Halloweens before your kid decides what they want their Halloween costume to be. But for their first couple of outings? You’re in total control, and you get to pick that ultra-adorable baby Halloween costume.

Some things to consider when choosing a baby Halloween costume: The American Academy of Pediatrics advises parents to look for costumes that won’t trip up those early walkers (so make sure the shoes fit well and nothing too long hangs down), are made with flame-resistant materials, have hats that don’t slide down over eyes and don’t come with sharp accessories that can poke. For babies, you can skip the masks (you want to show off their sweet faces anyway), and you should check the costumes for loose strings or holes that can tangle or trap small fingers and toes. And easy diaper changes (and perhaps a backup outfit) are a good idea if you want to save yourself from some “tricks” later.

Within those parameters, though, there’s still a big range to choose from, from favorite costumes from popular culture like Star Wars and Stranger Things to those fuzzy animal one-pieces that make them look like huggable stuffed animals. And, if you have other kids in your party you need to dress, we have ideas for toddler costumes and big-kid costumes, too. (Or maybe you want to get in on the act and make it a family costume?)

BEST DISNEY BABY COSTUME

DRESSY DAISY

Baby Snow White-Inspired Costume

Heigh-ho, it’s off to go trick-or-treating! This shop also has dresses in the style of Rapunzel, Cinderella and others, and they go up to size 6.

Baby Duck Costume

Baby? Cute. Baby duck? Cute. Baby dressed as baby duck? TOO CUTE. With this costume, you get the romper, tights, shoe-covers and headpiece. Quacking is all you.

BEST HALLOWEEN COSTUME FOR BABY BOYS

DISNEY

Baby Buzz Lightyear Costume

This stretchy, one-piece costume is so easy, they can wear it to infinity and beyond — and, with the new Lightyear movie, they’re going to want to! Then again, if you’re more of a down-to-Earth family, there’s also a Woody equivalent.

BEST DIY BABY HALLOWEEN COSTUME

OSHKOSH B’GOSH

Baby Eleven Costume

Sure, we’re still reeling from the most recent batch of Stranger Things episodes. But babies are more of a match for Eleven’s OG, Season 1 look, since their hair is usually the right fit. You just need this blue windbreaker, a smocked pink dress, tube socks — and some Eggos.

BEST CHARACTER BABY HALLOWEEN COSTUME

STAR WARS

Baby Yoda Costume

There’s no doubt who the cutest baby in the galaxy is: yours. But if we had to pick a second choice, it would be Grogu, aka “Baby Yoda.” And with this robe (complete with hand covers) and headpiece, they all can be one and the same!

MICHLEY

Baby Panda Costume

Because everyone looks good in black and white. Bonus: This costume has a zipper on the bottom for easy diaper access. This style of costumes comes in other animals, too, including a pig, a unicorn and a hedgehog, among many others.

Tags baby, baby halloween costume, halloween, Halloween dresses

Baby Clothes

5 Best Baby Halloween Costumes That Are Perfect for 2022

Post author By
Post date September 20, 2022

With that big, floofy mane, no one will be able to miss your little lion. The mouse rattle comes included, too.

Your baby is nothing if not a Wild Thing, so throw this on and let the wild rumpus begin. The costume is in two pieces: the bodysuit with an attached tail, and the hood with the crown.

Want to come up with a simple-but-clever matching Halloween costume? You can do it! All you need is this headband set and a denim bodysuit.

To the moon! Your baby will feel like they’re floating in space with this costume, which includes diaper snaps for easy changing. It also comes in pink.

Hail to The King! Your baby will feel like a superstar in this outfit, which comes with the jumpsuit, hat and booties.

Tags baby, baby halloween costume, clothing, Halloween dresses

Baby Toys

7 Best Sensory and Fidget Toys for All Ages

Post author By
Post date September 19, 2022

All toys are meant to give kids some kind of experience, whether it’s role-playing toys that fostering the imagination, outdoor toys that get them up and active, artsy toys help get their creative juices flowing or educational toys like STEM play sets that teach kids about certain educational topics. But sensory toys focus in on touch, sight, hearing, taste and smell and try to direct kids’ attention to one or more of those sensations.

BEST BUILDING SENSORY TOY

BRISTLE BLOCKS

Bristle Blocks

For a building toy that provides some extra texture, Bristle Blocks come with interlocking pieces made of soft, rubbery spikes. The big bucket of pieces also encourages open-ended and imaginative play. Ages 2+

BEST SENSORY TOY FOR TODDLERS

EDUSHAPE

Textured Sensory Balls

This set of four see-through balls come covered in nubs for a tactile sensation that babies don’t get from smooth ones. As they get older, they can also roll and track them, working on both gross and fine motor coordination. Ages 6 months+

BEST FIDGET TOY FOR OLDER KIDS

ANTSY LABS

Dice Fidget Cube

Designed for kids with restless hands, this cube from Antsy Labs has six sides with different functions on each face. Some have buttons to push, switches to flip, wheels to roll, or toggles to click. And at 1.25″ cubed inches, it fits in the palm of a hand. Ages 6+

EDUCATIONAL INSIGHTS

Playfoam Pals

This is really two toys in one: Kids can dig through the Playfoam to find the collectible toy — and then use the compound to build, smush, and play. Bonus: It never dries out! Ages 5+

KINETIC SAND

Kinetic Sand

Kinetic Sand always feels like the perfect, wet, sand-castle-making sand from the best spot on the beach. With this kit, kids can use molds and tools to scoop, shape and squish the sand. It also comes with three pounds of sand! Ages 3+

BEST SENSORY TOY FOR BABIES

THE FIRST YEARS

Massaging Corn Teether

For babies who need extra oral stimulation, this teether provides soothing vibrations when those little mouths bite down on the corn cob. It helps soothe sore gums when your baby is teething, but they might enjoy the sensation even when they’re not. Ages 6 months+

WIKKISTIX

WikkiStix Activity Set

These bendable, waxy craft sticks are compact, so they’re great to stash in the car for long trips or keep in a backpack to pull out while you’re waiting at a doctor’s office or for your food at a restaurant. This kit also comes with a booklet of ideas for a craft projects. Ages 3+

How We Choose the Best Toys

Before including our favorite picks in an article, the Good Housekeeping Institute does rigorous toy testing to ensure we’re recommending only the best. Many of our choices come from our annual Toy Awards, where we test each item based on the following criteria:

✔️Safety: Our engineers and analysts make sure that each toy reaches all safety standards. They also assess things like pinch points and make sure toys won’t shatter into small pieces to pose a potential choking hazard.

✔️Ease of Use: We look at each toy to evaluate how simple it is to assemble, how well it’s constructed and how durable it is during play.

✔️Kid Approval: Aside from testing each toy for skill-building attributes, like how well it develops social-emotional skills, all our final decisions come from more than 100 children, ages 1 to 15, who assess the fun factor!

Tags intellectual toy, kids toys, sensory toys, Toy

Baby Toys

6 Best Sensory and Fidget Toys for All Ages 1

Post author By
Post date September 17, 2022

All toys are meant to give kids some kind of experience, whether it’s role-playing toys that fostering the imagination, outdoor toys that get them up and active, artsy toys help get their creative juices flowing or educational toys like STEM play sets that teach kids about certain educational topics. But sensory toys focus in on touch, sight, hearing, taste and smell and try to direct kids’ attention to one or more of those sensations.

“Sensory toys stimulate the tactile system through various textures, vibration, temperature or weight,” says Shelli Dry, ODT, a pediatric occupational therapist. “Visual toys can light up, flash, run in patterns and stimulate color receptors by changing colors. Vestibular toys would be things like swings, rocker boards, scooter boards, skateboards and spinners — toys that move through space in different directions and different speeds. Auditory toys may have music, metronome beats, chimes or bells.” Even those ubiquitous pop fidget toys have their purpose, offering a satisfying push-pull for kids with busy hands. Just watch out for toys that do too many of these at once, Dr. Dry cautions, since those may be overstimulating.

There are many advantages to these types of experiences. “Sensory toys are beneficial to all ages and abilities and not limited in use,” Dr. Dry says. “They may be used to activate or to calm, to encourage engagement and hand-eye coordination, and to increase participation and turn-taking. The key is to analyze each toy’s properties and find the one that best matches your child’s interests.”

Lots of parents like to DIY their own sensory bins, filling them with things like dry pasta, rice, water beads or sand, along with toys and tools that kids can use to hide and dig through to find again. But if the DIY route isn’t your thing, these best sensory toys of 2022 are always at the ready, waiting to give kids a fun, tactile experience.

Many of these are favorites of the toy testing experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Parenting Lab, and a few have even won Good Housekeeping‘s Best Toy Awards.

BEST OVERALL SENSORY TOY

HAND2MIND

Sensory Fidget Tubes

Watching the glitter, colors and other materials traverse these fidget tubes offers a calming experience for kids who need a minute to cool down. This set comes with four tubes, a glitter tube, a fidget tube, a reverse hourglass and a gravity spinner, but Hand2Mind also has tubes that focus on color-mixing or look like a cute cloud, among others. Ages 3+

GOOD HOUSEKEEPING BEST TOY AWARD WINNER

CREATIVITY FOR KIDS

Sensory Bin: Ocean and Sand

You can create your own DIY sensory bins, filling them with different compounds, toys to hide in them and tools to dig and scoop them. Or you can buy this ready-made sensory bin, which offers a variety of sensations and textures. The ocean and sand bin has water beads, sand, ocean animals and tools for digging and scooping, but Creativity for Kids’ other bins, with themes like construction zone, dinosaur dig, gardens and critters, ice cream shop, mermaid lagoon, outer space and race track, have different compounds and toys in them.

BEST POP FIDGET SENSORY TOY

FAT BRAIN TOYS

Dimpl Digits

The Dimpl Digits toy, a Good Housekeeping Best Toy Award winner, features the numbers one through 10 in a rainbow of bubbles that give a satisfying pop when you push them in. Flip it over, and you’ll find the numbers in Spanish, too. Younger kids might prefer the smaller, original Dimpl that has the same pushing sensation without the numbers. (And maybe you or an older child might want a Simple Dimpl keychain for yourself?) Ages 1+

BEST SENSORY TOY FOR BABIES

SASSY

Developmental Bumpy Ball

This squishy ball is covered in easy-to-grab bumps that each offer a different texture for babies to explore. It also has cool colors, bold patterns and stimulating rattling sounds. Ages 6 months+

BEST SENSORY TOY FOR GROSS MOTOR COORDINATION

OMNISAFE

Balance Beams

For kids who want to play The Floor Is Lava at home, these balance beams are a great way to help them work on balance and coordination while having fun. If your home setup doesn’t have enough room for a whole balance-beam course, you can also try using stepping stones. Ages 3+

BEST SENSORY TOY FOR ACTIVE KIDS

CHAMPION SPORTS

Scooter Board

For kids with boundless energy, scooter boards get them working their muscles (especially if they try to use them on their bellies). If your home setup doesn’t work for this kind of scooter, at-home trampolines are another way for them to expend excess energy. Ages 3+

Tags baby, Baby Toys, intellectual toy, Toy

Baby Appliances Baby Products

9 Best Baby Toothbrushes for Tiny Teeth

Post author By
Post date September 16, 2022

It’s important to brush your teeth twice a day to keep your teeth and gums healthy, but how young should you start introducing this habit? Tiny toothbrushes may look cute, but are they really effective? You’re probably not looking forward to struggling with your baby to properly run a brush over all their new teeth, but it’s important to start young. As soon as your baby’s first tooth arrives you should start brushing or wiping their teeth. Not only will this help you and your little one get used to brushing, but it helps keep their newly sprouted pearly whites clean from plaque and bacteria.

We spoke to pediatric dentist Naveen Kwatra and orthodontist Amy Barrer, both at MVP Smiles in Gaithersburg, MD, to help answer some of your concerns when it comes to introducing your newest family member to oral hygiene. You may be overwhelmed by the variety of styles and options when it comes to baby toothbrushes, but as Dr. Kwatra and Dr. Barrer explain, “The most important part of brushing teeth is the mechanical brushing [action]. In general, it’s the physical removal of the plaque and bacteria on the teeth.” So when it comes to picking between finger brushes or 360 brushes, they say it’s really just your personal preference. As long as the teeth are being brushed, you’re doing great!

We chose each baby toothbrush in this roundup based on picks tested by the Good Housekeeping Institute, top-performing brands and expert recommendations. Looking for something with a little more power? Check out some of the best electric toothbrushes for adults and kids. Here are the best baby toothbrushes of 2022, according to dental and parenting experts.

• Age: 0-3 years

This adorable giraffe toothbrush is just as cute as it is easy on teeth and gums. The self-standing brush keeps the head away from the dirty counter so there are fewer germs to worry about. Kids will appreciate the easy-to-hold handle and soft bristles for their baby teeth. The brand recommends rinsing the brush in warm water before and after each use as a best hygiene practice to maintain cleanliness. It’s a more fun version of an adult toothbrush, and the similar shape and soft bristles will help prepare your little one for their daily oral hygiene routine.

• Age: 0-3 years

Since the CDC recommends replacing your toothbrush every three to four months, getting a pack of four like this one is a great value option. The wide handles are perfect for tiny hands that are just learning how to hold a toothbrush, and the fun colors will help keep your little one interested. The short neck and small brush head are designed for tiny mouths while the colored bristles indicate exactly how much toothpaste is needed for each use. Plus, the handle of the toothbrush does double duty by functioning as a teething ring!

• Age: 3-12 months

This banana toothbrush is a fan favorite for a reason. Aside from its super cute design, its ergonomic handle and silicone brush head are ideal for baby hands and teething mouths. It combines the best aspects of dental care with a cute toy and can even be placed in the freezer for maximum soothing during teething. According to the brand, the entire brush is made from a single piece of silicone, making it pliable and bendy — perfect for little ones’ chewing or brushing needs. Plus, it comes in a variety of colors and shapes, like an ear of corn or a dragon.

• Age: 3-24 months

Finger brushes like this one are great for new parents looking to help establish a healthy oral care routine. Not only is it easy to navigate around your baby’s mouth and ensure you’re reaching all the teeth, but its soft silicone bristles aren’t too rough on small baby gums. The triple-angled brush head helps get all sides of those tiny teeth quickly and efficiently, and the thick, double-sided design means that teething babies won’t be able to hurt you when they bite down. For maximum hygiene, use the included storage stand to keep the brush clean between uses.

• Age: 0.5-4 years

This double-sided toothbrush helps tackle both top and bottom rows of teeth at the same time. This brush won a Good Housekeeping Parenting Award in 2020 for its easy-to-hold handle and soft bristles that make it safe and simple for kids to learn how to brush on their own. We love that the safety barrier means little ones won’t readily be able to push the brush too far back, but they’ll still have no trouble reaching their molars. Plus, its shape is perfect for small hands to use on their own.

• Age: 0-3 years

For little ones seeking sensory stimuli, an electric toothbrush like the BabySonic is a great option. With gentle vibrations, soft bristles and a comfortable handle, this brush brings all the benefits of electric brushing to your littlest family members. The suction base helps keep the head off the counter and the LED 30-second timer is perfect for teaching toddlers independence when they handle the brush on their own with supervision. Once they get older, simply replace the brush-head with the toddler-designed version. Keep in mind that both Dr. Kwatra and Dr. Barrer say generally children under 8 or 9 years old don’t need an electric toothbrush, so speak with your pediatrician or dentist to determine if it’s the best option for your little one.

• Age: 0-6 years

This set grows with your little one from infancy to childhood. It includes four different brushes starting with the finger brush that’s great for a teething baby’s first brushing experience. Next comes the extra-soft silicone brush and massager followed by the slightly more robust brush designed for toddlers around 1 year old. Finally comes the nylon bristled brush perfect for older kids. Available in a variety of fun colors, kids can get used to taking care of their teeth on their own and with their parents’ help. The soft materials are made for sensitive gums and teething littlies.

Age: 6 months +

Featuring triple-angled bristles, these brushes aim to reach all the nooks and crannies of your baby’s teeth. Included a brush for babies and one for toddlers, this set grows with your child. The first brush has silicone bristles, a removable safety stopper to keep your baby from gagging and an easy-to-grip handle for little fingers. Switch to the toddler brush at around 18 months with its suction cup bottom that keeps the head away from the counter.

Age: 6 months +

For all-around cleaning, this 360 brush has bristles on all sides of the head to clean the front, back and sides of each tooth as easily as possible. The soft bristles keep teeth and gums clean without irritation and the smiley face safety shield ensures that baby doesn’t push their toothbrush too far back in their mouth. Use the suction base to store the brush upright. Plus, we’ve had great experiences with the brand’s other products like their manual breast pump.

How we choose the best baby toothbrushes

Our team at the Good Housekeeping Institute reviews baby and toddler gear of all kinds. We’ve tested almost all of the picks on this list and have consumer feedback for several as well. Our product experts sifted through countless five-star reviews to find the best brushes, and spoke with real parents to figure out which are also kid approved.

We’ve used our experience and expertise in kid and adult toothbrushes as well as baby products to determine what materials would be ideal ergonomically and what is best suited for your little ones. We consider safety, texture, additional features, materials, ease of use and more when choosing our favorite picks. These picks are made up of our expert’s favorites and popular brands with rave reviews from real Good Housekeeping consumer reviewers.

Do I need a baby toothbrush?

Yes. Once your little one’s teeth start popping up, you’ll want to give them a brush twice a day. “It is important for parents to start cleaning their kids’ teeth as soon as they erupt into the mouth. Even a washcloth will do!” say Dr. Kwatra and Dr. Barrer in a joint statement. “It is very important to brush and/or wipe them clean!” Not only does this help establish a good oral hygiene routine and get your baby used to the habit and feeling of brushing, but the bristles will remove sugars from their milk, formula or baby food that would otherwise cling to their gums.

As for when it’s time to start seeing a professional, Dr. Kwatra and Dr. Barrer recommend visiting a dentist for your little one by age 1. “This visit is more important for the parent to learn about healthy habits such as diet and oral hygiene.”

What to consider when picking a baby toothbrush

In order to pick out the perfect toothbrush for you and your little one, consider the following factors:

✔️ Materials: Silicone brushes are great for doubling as teethers. Brushes with nylon/synthetic fiber bristles are more similar to adult brushes they’ll use later in their childhood. Either way, Dr. Kwatra and Dr. Barrer suggest that you stick to a brush with softer bristles since harder bristles have been shown to “wear down the enamel of the teeth.”

✔️ Type: Brushes for little ones come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from 360 brushes and ones with silicone bristles to electric brushes and finger brushes. You might need to try a few different types before you find one that is most comfortable for you and your baby. While all the types we included are equally effective, some may be more comfortable for your little one than others.

✔️ Size: Both the brush head size and grip size are important to consider. Smaller heads are better for little baby mouths according to Dr. Kwatra and Dr. Barrer, and fatter handles are easier for little hands to manipulate.

Should your baby use toothpaste?

Toothpaste is actually less important than you think when it comes to brushing your baby’s teeth. “The most important part of teeth brushing is the physical removal of the plaque,” Dr. Kwatra explains. According to both dentists we spoke to, once you start meeting with a dentist for your baby, they’ll be able to let you know when it’s the right time to start incorporating toothpaste. “Fluoride-free toothpaste is the best to use for babies,” says Dr. Barrer. “It’s recommended to use a very small smear of toothpaste, much less than one may think! We usually recommend an amount equal to a small grain of rice.” Speak with your pediatrician if your child requires additional fluoride. This usually depends on where you live and if there is fluoride in the water.

Tags baby, baby toothbrush, children's toothbrush, mother

Baby Appliances

THE BEST STROLLER FANS TO KEEP YOUR BABY COOL ALL SUMMER LONG

Post author By
Post date September 15, 2022

During the summer, it’s natural to want to be outside as much as possible, even if you’re pushing a stroller. But that can get uncomfortable, and potentially even dangerous when temperatures rise and things really heat up — which is why having a stroller fan (or two) can make your outing much more comfortable for your baby.

Babies aren’t great at regulating heat. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) warns that whenthe heat index is over 90º Fahrenheit, babies should stay indoors. But even temperatures below that can be hot and uncomfortable when you’re strapped into a stroller. Stroller fans are affordable solutions to this parenting problem that help cool your baby down by circulating air around their sweaty little selves.

Key Specs:

Attach Style: Bendable Arms
Bladeless
Run Time: 4 to 18 hours, depending on speed

Looking for a fan with a clip instead of arms? Here’s a great option. Yes, it looks a little like Wall-E, but that only adds to its charm. It’s powerful, lasts a long time, and best of all? It’s dead quiet. Parents say that while it gives off a dull whirring, it’s nothing that would interfere with your child’s rest.

Key Specs:

Attach Style: Clamp
Bladeless
Run Time: up to 6 hours, depending on speed

The main reason parents love this stroller fan, and the reason I’m including it, is that it’s very safe and very easy to attach. It could have a bit more power and run time, in my opinion, but the fact that fingers aren’t getting hurt at all on this one and that it’s a universal clamp is enough to win fans.

Key Specs:

Attach Style: Bendable arms
Blades
Run Time: 4 to 6 hours, depending on speed
Misting Element

If you’re looking for a next level refreshment, this is the fan for you and your children. It features a misting function that’s very light but noticeable and refreshing. The easy-to-fill basin holds 60 milliliters of water, and it lasts about an hour, according to reviewers who are big fans of these fans (sorry — we couldn’t resist squeezing a pun in there!).

Key Specs:

Attach Style: Bendable arms
Blades
Run Time: 4 to 14 hours, depending on speed
Light and Aromatherapy Element

While you shouldn’t use the aromatherapy diffuser around your baby for safety reasons, the LED light is positively mesmerizing to babies. It’s the perfect one-two punch to get a good nap going — a breezy outdoor setting and a lighted fan. It’s hypnotic, and parents who use this fan say that it works, especially for cranky babies at twilight who are fighting sleep.

WHAT TO CONSIDER

When you’re buying a stroller fan, you want to consider a few things: how it attaches to the stroller, is it bladeless or does it have blades, how long the charge lasts, and bonus features.

How Does It Attach? Most stroller fans have octopus-like arms that wrap around the handle of the stroller to face baby. However, a few fans have clasps or lobster-style clips.
Bladeless or Bladed? Bladeless fans, like the Skip Hop, are safer stroller fans for baby’s fingers, but don’t always have the oomph that traditional, bladed models like the HomeFairy offer. Regardless of the blade style you choose, we recommend that every fan be kept out of your baby’s reach.
Run Time: How long can you run the fan on one charge? If you’re going to be out for a while, do you need to bring a backup or a charger? Just as most things go with parenting, plan for success and think about this before you head out for the day!
Bonus Features: Some fans have a mist feature that your baby might find lovely (or hate, it could go either way), and others light up so that you can see baby in dim evenings. While these features aren’t necessary, they are nice to have.

We included the best of every type of stroller fan on our list. However, it’s important to note that they are not a solution for hot weather, and that you should still always look for signs of heat stroke or overheating in your baby. According to Children’s Health, the signs you should look for are:

Elevated body temperature, between 100˚ and 104˚
Cool, clammy skin even in hot weather
Goosebumps in hot weather
Fainting, dizziness or overly lethargic behavior
Headaches (grabbing at head/ear and crying while doing it)
Increased sweating
Super angry
Increased thirst
Muscle cramps or being overly stiff
Nausea and/or vomiting

Read on to find the coolest of stroller fans for every kind of summer stroll.

Tags baby, fan, mini fan, stroller fan

Baby Toys

THE BEST BABY RATTLES TO SHAKE THINGS UP

Post author By
Post date September 14, 2022

Beyond just being fun, baby rattles help develop your baby’s fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. They’re often the first toy your baby will encounter, making them particularly special to parents as well. But with so many rattles on the market, how do you figure out which one will work best for your family?

WHAT TO CONSIDER

Baby rattles aren’t that complicated, but you do want to make sure that the rattle you’re choosing is right for your child’s age and stage of development. You also want to make sure it’s safe.

For the littlest babies, you’ll want a rattle that’s easy for them to grasp and for you to easily clean, since their hands are little and so are their immune systems. But as babies get a little older, their needs change. When they start to teethe, you’re going to want to look for rattles with some sort of chewing element to soothe those angry gums. The dual stimulation of sound and texture can really help calm babies, making them a worthy investment for your little one.

For safety, you’ll want to make sure that the entire rattle is a closed compartment, free of any possibility of choking. You should also opt for one that’s made out of safe materials like BPA-free plastic or silicone. Wood and cotton materials are fine as well, but make sure that the wood isn’t being damaged, and that the plush materials are cleaned frequently. Other than that, it’s mostly aesthetics — and wow, there are some cute rattles out there.

I’ve chosen a range of rattles in a variety of textures and sizes that are sure to delight your baby. As an added bonus, all of these baby rattles make great gifts for any expecting parent!

Every baby should have their own NogginStik. Seriously, this baby rattle does a lot when it comes to entertaining baby and supporting healthy development.

The multisensory activity toy lights up at the top — the colors change based on baby’s movements. The bottom (rattle) part features a mirror, and the stick in the middle is textured for easy gripping.

More: Raise Your Baby Green With These Top Eco-Friendly Toys

Sounds are essential for developing your baby’s hearing, and with this adorable set by iPlay, iLearn, your baby can play and get the rattle as you fill in with “What does a sheep say?” “Baaaa.”

They’re soft, they’re easy to hold, and they come with their own little farmhouse for storage. It’s so much more than just a rattle toy — it’ll also be your baby’s first pretend play toy.

This smooth, minimalist-style wooden baby rattle is a perfect toy for babes. Handmade in the USA, this rattle is made of organic materials and comes in a little cotton sachet, which makes it a perfect gift to give, too.

It’s natural maple and sealed with 100% nontoxic paints and dyes.

More: Raise Your Baby Green With These Top Eco-Friendly Toys

Your baby’s next game of Simon Says just got infinitely more fun with these wrist and foot rattles. Slip on the socks and loop the wristlets around your little one’s arms. Each time they kick their chubby little feet or flail their arms as babies so often do, they’ll be rewarded with a rattling sound.

Here’s another dumbbell-style rattle that looks a bit less like the traditional weight you’d find in a gym, and we’re totally obsessed with it. Made of organic cotton, this colorful chime rattle will give your baby all the good feelings.

It’s bright and engaging, and the handle is small enough for even the littlest babies to hold and play with.

This friendly rattle makes a good starter toy for the youngest of babies. It’s super-soft, without any hard surfaces, and despite the small size, it’s packed full of surprises. The antennae and arms feature different textures and sounds to help keep your baby busy. And when baby starts to teethe? Those feet will come in handy.

This is a perfect gift for parents who prioritize fitness in the family lifestyle. Plus, the dumbbell rattle looks hysterical in photos — it’ll totally help keep your Instagram feed alive!

On top of that, it’s made of safe materials free of phthalates and BPA, so you can rest assured your baby isn’t chewing on anything nasty.

The Sassy set is the ultimate in developmental play. This particular rattle is designed for the youngest of rattlers. The graphic, multicolor design is visually stimulating for your baby’s vision, and the various textures and shapes help build dexterity.

Plus, with a set of two, you’ll have a backup in case one gets lost — which is every parent’s dream.

Meet your baby’s new BFF! This hedgehog rattle is made to play all day — and seriously, is this not just the cutest?

The flexible, round body will keep your little one entertained as it bounces and rolls across the floor, encouraging babies to crawl, while the finger holes make it easy for tiny hands to hold on and give it a shake.

Babies can get attached to toys, so you’ll want something that’s well-made to go the distance. You can’t go wrong with this colorful ring. The natural beechwood is durable and lightweight, while the water-based, nontoxic stain also makes it a safe teether.

Haba makes toys that are as safe for the planet as they are for your child, making this a great, sustainable pick.

Tags baby, baby rattle, Baby Toys, Toy

Baby Products Baby Safety Seat

THE 6 BEST CAR SEATS OF 2022

Post author By
Post date September 14, 2022

There are popular car seats out there, but are they really the best car seat? It’s tempting to rely on word-of-mouth advice when deciding on the right products for your precious baby, but after looking into the specs of different car seat models, you might form your own opinion.

When choosing the best car seat for your family, first consider safety. Then, when you’ve narrowed it down to the safest options in each category, you can then have fun with other details, like the ease of use, style, price, and the ability to clean and keep the car seat fresh — especially if you’re opting for anything other than an infant car seat because you’ll be getting years of use out of it. Luckily, we’ve done the work for you.

Best Overall

The ClickTight feature on this car seat model ensures a safe and secure installation every single time, which is incredibly important because so many parents unknowingly install car seats incorrectly. Rest assured knowing that everyone from Dad to Grandma can nail a rock-solid installation, even when you’re not around. We love that the car seat features SafeCell Impact Protection, which is a hex-shaped technology designed to absorb extra energy and protect baby beyond federal standards in the case of a serious crash. This car seat also features something that’s rare to find in the United States: an anti-rebound bar, which offers extra padded protection in the case of a crash. It’s the best car seat for babies from 5 to 65 pounds.

This is the car seat my kids used, and I can tell you we were hard on them. My kids are active, snacky, car-sicky, and they’re close enough in age that we bought two of these. They’re heavy, sturdy, are easy to install, and my kids made washing this beast routinely a very important endeavor.

Suitable in rear-facing mode from birth to 40 pounds and forward-facing from 20 to 65 pounds.

Best Infant Car Seat

The Mesa car seat features a no-rethread harness, which means you won’t have to take apart the harness system as your baby grows. What a breeze! This beautiful black car seat is so light and lean that you won’t have to worry about lugging a heavy baby and car seat around. If you want to make things even easier on yourself, you can grab the Vista2 stroller by UPPAbaby to complete a travel system. Plus, there’s also the first-ever smart auto-retracting mini latch, combined with a red-to-green tension indicator, which makes handling the seat a lot easier, and, in turn, safer for baby.

My nephew used this car seat as a baby, and my sister-in-law could not sing its praises loudly enough. She was into how easy the latch was, saying, “You don’t get mad at it,” she loves that it’s easy to clean, and she loves that the whole thing feels, as she puts it, “planted.”

This seat will safely seat babies from 4 to 35 pounds.

Best Toddler Car Seat

Thanks to easy clean-up, your toddler can have multiple snacks and drinks in this car seat, and you’ll never have to worry about spills. It’s easy to install and remove, and overall, it’s just a great seat.

The patented Snuglock design makes securing the Graco Nautilus toddler seat to your latch a cinch. The chest lock is completely intuitive, and its threadless adjustable harness allows your child to grow with the seat without needing to constantly remove it from the car.

It has a steel-reinforced frame and strong foam lining and headrest, making this one of the safest car seats on the market, according to Consumer Reports.

Don’t worry about cleaning it, either. The seat pad is — get this — machine-washable. It also has multiple areas for storage, four reclining positions, five harness placements, and six headrest positions.

There’s a lot that parents love about this seat, but one standout that makes it the best car seat for many parents is the lock. Car seats have notoriously difficult seatbelt locks, but this one? Easy to operate and easy to clean. One big fan said, “It’s the easiest lock of any car seat I’ve used, and I have six kids.”

Suitable in forward-facing mode from 22-65 pounds to highback booster between 40-100 pounds, to backless booster from 40-120 pounds.

Convertible Car Seat Runner-Up

This stunner of a car seat by Maxi-Cosi is a favorite of the Best Products team. Our executive editor, Christine Anderson, uses the Magellan with her son, saying, “The Maxi Cosi Pria was recommended to us by a friend — and once we started comparing the features of the Pria to the Magellan XP model, it was an easy decision to upgrade her recommendation and go for the Magellan. With the Magellan, you’re purchasing a 5-in-1 convertible car seat (no extra infant seat or booster seat required). They’re all in there. Plus, the Magellan is complete with Maxi Cosi’s patented Air Protect in the headrest (for side-impact protection) AND torso side impact protection.”

It’s ridiculously straightforward to install, though it does take a minute. But thanks to very explicit guides that show you how to do it, it’s not challenging. Plus, it’s just a really good-looking seat.

Suitable from birth to 120 pounds.

Infant Car Seat Runner-Up

This highly rated infant car seat is easy to install, and it fits securely in the back seat of anything from compact cars to bulky SUVs. The flip-out visor offers great sun protection, and a removable insert for newborns makes this a great choice for bringing a preemie home. We’re impressed with the lengths Chicco goes to when it comes to ensuring proper installation: This car seat features ReclineSure (which helps the car seat achieve an accurate fit in any car model), RideRight (a bubble level indicator for angle accuracy), and SuperCinch (a one-pull tightener to achieve a secure fit with a fraction of the effort). Your newborn can safely ride in this seat until she reaches 30 pounds. The cover is also machine-washable and zips right off!

The ease of the car seat is what parents love best. It’s easy to install, easy to clean, easy to take apart, and easier on the wallet than a lot of its counterparts. Parents also love how breathable it is. One user said, “The thing never gets too hot. Yes, you’ll still get sweaty babies out of them, but it doesn’t overheat.”

Suitable from birth to 32 inches tall and 30 pounds.

Best Smart Car Seat

This car seat is new on the market and has a smart function that connects to an app on your phone. Rather impressively, it’s capable of spinning 180º to make getting your baby in and out of the car as easy as possible.

This app that works with this car seat is quite literally a lifesaver. Why, you ask? Every year, dozens of children die because tired, overworked parents forget them in the car when it’s too hot or too cold. Cybex not only alerts you if you’ve left your child in the car, but it also tells you if it is too hot or too cold when your baby is clicked-in. Although our tester did find that the app glitches sometimes, telling you that your baby is “in the car” when you’re clearly still in there with them, it’s overall still a pretty amazing car seat.

It’s suitable from birth to 40 pounds when it’s rear-facing, and forward-facing from 22 to 65 pounds. You will really get your use out of this one.

How to Clean a Car Seat

Cleaning a car seat can feel like a chore, but it doesn’t have to — if you know how to do it right. Make sure to reference your seat’s instructions because each one is slightly different. One universal truth is that straps cannot be machine washed, so you just need to use a damp cloth and wipe those off.

Get rid of the little things first. First, use a handheld vacuum to remove dirt, crumbs, and anything else icky from the car seat.
Spot clean spills. Even perfect tots have spills. Use a carpet cleaning solution to spot clean any stains. For tougher spots, use an inexpensive degreaser and simply pour it on the stain to watch it magically erase it. Then, use a washcloth with water to dab up the degreaser so the chemicals don’t sit.
Freshen it up. Dip a cotton towel into a solution of water and baby-safe laundry detergent and wash the car seat down. Let it air dry outside. Voilà! (And let’s not lie, you’re definitely going to Febreeze it more than once.)
Machine wash: Some of the seats have covers that are machine-washable. Just follow your manufacturer’s instructions and get that bad boy cleaned right up.

Tags baby, baby safety, baby safety seat, Safety seats

Baby Appliances

8 POTTY CHAIRS TO GET YOUR BABY OUT OF DIAPERS

Post author By
Post date September 13, 2022

So, you’ve noticed some signs that your baby is ready to potty train? If your little one is hiding to go to the bathroom, taking off their diapers, and are generally just curious about potties, then it’s time for you to buy a potty chair.

But with so many options on the market, how do you know which one is best for your little one? And why should you use a potty chair as opposed to just an insert on the adult toilet? Don’t worry — we’re here to help with that.

WHAT TO CONSIDER

Children need to feel in control, and choosing a potty chair that’s designed just for them can make the whole thing easier, more engaging, and more comfortable. I spoke with child psychologist and former director of an Early Childhood Education program for 2-year-olds, Nancy Zweibach, for some potty training tips and for some shopping pointers. Zwiebach tells Best Products that a potty chair is a much better first potty choice than the regular toilet because “Putting a young child on a regular toilet can feel frightening since there’s no security from any dimension.”

Think about it: A toilet tank is too far away to support your little one’s back, it has no sides, and there’s no floor support — which makes the experience pretty threatening. But how do you choose? Well, that’s up to you. There are fancy potties that some kids adore with bells and whistles like sounds and lights like the Skip Hop. There are also super basic plastic potties that are the easiest to clean like Fisher-Price and really convenient travel potties like the folding potty on our list.

There are a few things you need to think about before your purchase. First, how easy it is to remove the waste receptacle to clean — because, trust me, you’ll be doing that multiple times per day. Second, if you’re having a boy, we suggest getting a potty that can be wiped down easily because they will try to stand to pee, and it will go everywhere — and I mean everywhere.

We found a range of potties for parents to lure their children away from diapers and messy changes. From silly characters to super basic potty chairs, we have you covered.

Nothing says “Ditch your diaper!” like a super cool racecar. This cute potty chair has four rubber wheels and an amazing car seat back.

Plus, the basin of this chair is easy to remove, as is the seat for cleaning. The whole thing can be wiped clean or hosed off in a splashing event.

This affordable penguin potty chair from Fisher-Price has a modern feel, yet the little tikes are totally drawn to it, too. The best feature? An anti-splash design that involves a special deflection shield, so your sweetie walks away with dry skin — and clothing.

And for parents? It couldn’t be easier to clean.

This Munchkin Arm & Hammer 3-in-1 Potty has a built-in scented deodorizing disk to keep your bathroom smelling fresh and clean. Trust us — you’ll need it.

Don’t worry about it being difficult to clean, either. Munchkin has thought of everything, including easy-to-grip handles, a deep basin, and a wipe-off base.

If your little one is scared of getting flushed down the toilet, try this potty chair out. When your tot pulls down the lever, twirling water effects mimic real flushing, accompanied by fun flashing lights and catchy tunes.

This is not your basic potty, and over 5,000 five-star reviews agree that it’s actually simple to disinfect and definitely worth the silliness.

BabyBjörn, a trusted baby brand, is the brand behind this popular pick — which features an ergonomic design and a low backrest to make potty training more comfortable. This has been one of the most-popular potty chairs of the past 10 years — and with good reason!

The basic style, ease of cleaning, and durable materials make it a solid choice for any family.

Your lil’ copycat wants to do everything you do, so use that to your advantage with this potty that looks just like the real thing. A realistic flush rewards a job well done — and best of all, it has a built-in wipe dispenser.

This is a great model for kids who want to be “just like” someone in the house. And yes, it’s super easy to clean.

Instead of buying both a potty chair and a step stool, this one does both. Flip the lid down, and it becomes a step to help kids reach the sink. Just don’t let them move it all around when it’s full. That could lead to some disastrous results that no one wants.

We love a multistep child product. This one goes from potty chair to in-toilet seat. The features of this potty chair are pretty funny, and kids will love it. The cushioned seat and toilet paper holder will make your little one feel like a real big kid — and, as you might know, kids just love that.

The basin is deep so it won’t splash out, and it’s easy to separate from the chair.

Tags baby, baby toilet, Recommended for mother and baby, toilet

Baby Toys

8 CUTE BABY DOLLS YOUR LITTLE ONE WON’T WANT TO PUT DOWN

Post author By
Post date September 13, 2022

If you’ve ever spent time with a little nurturer, you know how much they love to cling to baby dolls. They become to attached to them that they almost an extra limb for some kids. Baby dolls are pretty basic, but there are a few things to think about when you’re looking to buy your baby their own baby.

WHAT TO CONSIDER

Buying a baby doll isn’t a big undertaking, but there are a few things you should think about before making your purchase, such as your child’s age, your budget, and if you want it to be a low-tech or high-tech toy. Baby dolls can surprisingly get a bit expensive — and since the big-dollar baby dolls are heirloom-quality, the sticker shock can be quite high, especially considering there are likely cheaper dupes on the market.

Age: Young babies need soft toys without things like sewn-on eyes or small parts that can become choking hazards, while older preschoolers tend to like more detailed baby dolls with lots of bells and whistles. Older kids may want more sophisticated, pretend play dolls that focus on accessories and style.
Cost: Hold onto your hats, parents, and caregivers — because these dolls can go from under $10 to hundreds of dollars (yes, you read that right!).
Tech Type: Baby dolls range from soft, squishy toys to toys with movable arms and legs. Some high-tech baby dolls even wet themselves and cry until you change them — an interactive feature that kids oddly go bananas over. There are dolls in all of these categories at every price point on our list.

Got a little nurturer who loves to hug and care for their dolls? Check out our picks for the best dolls you can get your petite parent.

Age Range: 3 to 6 years

Created by mimes and puppeteers, this baby doll does more than babies do IRL. Your little one can play peek-a-boo or cuddle with their Baby Alive grow-up doll — and that’s not all! These dolls will respond to being fed, kissed, played with, and spoken to.

Over time, the doll’s language can grow to over 75 words and phrases, and she’ll even respond to your kiddo’s cues. It’s a unique baby doll that has three growth stages and features lots of interactivity.

More: The Best Toys for Kids to Cure Their Perpetual Boredom

Age Range: 2 to 5 years

If your little one is itching to take care of a baby doll (we know he can’t even take care of himself!), give him a doll from the New York Doll Collection to start with. The soft build of the doll makes it easy to learn how to hug, hold, and nurture someone tiny.

One excellent thing about this doll collection is that it comes in so many different skin colors. Kids need both windows and mirrors during play. They should see themselves, and see the world around them. This collection does just that.

Age Range: 3 to 7 years

This isn’t the highest-tech baby doll, but it’s plenty to keep preschoolers engaged. This baby doll makes 10 sound effects, including crying, laughing, and cute little pacifier gurgles. The dress cleans easily, as does the doll itself. It’s one of the most-popular dolls available, and for good reason.

Age Range: 6 to 10 years

This Cutesies doll is one of the most adorable baby dolls we’ve ever seen — did you see those bright green eyes?! Her limbs and head are movable and easy to wash. Plus, that miniature cupcake onesie will make your kid feel like they’re holding onto the sweetest thing.

This doll is slightly delicate, and the materials that the doll are made from are a bit heavier than other dolls on this list. So while it’s stunning and fun to have, the under-3 set should steer clear.

Age Range: 6 months to 2 years

This rag doll is cool, dude. Seriously, he’s low-maintenance and comes with a magnetic binky that your little man will love to nurture him with. He’ll end up going everywhere with your kid!

It comes in tons of different hair and skin colors, and thanks to the soft body and lack of beaded eyes or batteries, it’s great for even he youngest babies.

Age Range: 18 months to 6 years

Snatch a cute Cabbage Patch baby for your little one, just like the one you had in your childhood. This baby doll comes with a blanket, pacifier, a personalized birth certificate, and authentic adoption papers — making each and every one unique. It’s a classic for a reason — and babies still love this brand.

Plus, we can’t get enough of the sweet kitten onesie and ears!

Age Range: 2 to 5 years

This Baby Alive doll can suck on her thumb just like a real baby — a feature your little one will be very amused by. She can also be fed with the bottle accessory that’s included. Her body is softly stuffed, and the limbs are similarly soft, but made of a malleable polymer.

It comes with the bottle, and every doll will also get a blanket and pacifier. I love that your baby can suck her thumb like a real baby does as well. It’s a bit reminiscent of the Baby Alive dolls from when millennials were babies, and that’s pretty fun.

Age Range: 3 to 7 years

This baby dolls’ cheeks actually blush! She also makes 15 realistic baby sounds, and my goodness, they’re all so sweet — but her accessories are where my daughter thinks Sydney really shines.

Her soft cardigan, flexible wings, and the cup she drinks from are all color coordinated and work to interact with the doll. She also comes with a pair of shoes and a matching pacifier — plus, her shimmery outfits and shoes are changeable.

Tags baby, Baby Toys, Recommended for mother and baby, Toy

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