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Best baby toddler gear 2015 BABY AWARDS CARRYING RESULTS New parents - the products you need to buy now!
Our complete guide to babywearing
BUYING YOUR FIRST PUSHCHAIR Expert tips on choosing right first time
300 products tested & rated by parents
YOUR FIRST CAR SEAT We tell you what you need to know
WIN! LD
ur GO 1 2 o f o i n n e rs u p prize w bs! fo r g ra
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Best baby& toddler gear
s t n e m m o c ’s r edito he Best Baby & Toddler Gear Magazine!
W e l c o m e t o t h e f i r s t e d i t i o n of t
H
ello, I am thrilled to share our launch issue with you! It has been a long time coming and we hope you are as pleased with the finished result as
we are. We wanted to bring you a magazine that shows you the breadth of products available to buy as expectant parents, feel informed and choose what is right for you and your lifestyle. Not every product is the “best” for every parent and that’s why this magazine guides you through the different choices and showcases award wins and parent reviews, plus gives you
our top tips so you can work out what is best. This magazine means an awful lot to me and something I can readily relate to. When we started the Best baby & toddler gear awards I was pregnant! So, I know as well as you just how tricky, confusing and frankly overwhelming picking new baby products can be. Now, I have a gorgeous baby girl and I am thrilled with the informed choices I made – I think Florence likes a lot of them too! I hope you have as much fun reading our first issue as we had putting it together. We always want to hear from you so do share your
T LATEESWS I reviews REhV t la e te s s
uct F in d t t p ro d e wh a e . s d n g a in a t .. a re lov mu m s k
mumii
.c o .u
Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
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tips, hints and recommendations with us on www.mumii.co.uk. Enjoy!
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CONTENTS
6 6 The Importance of Knowing Your Baby’s Movements
10 Feel Positive About Your Birth
14 The Stem Cell Revolution
18 Choosing Your First Car Seat
22
14
18
22 30
26
Buying Your First Pushchair
26 Guide to Babywearing
30 Inspiration Guide
90 Best Baby and Toddler Gear Awards 2015 - The Results
98 My Wishlist
Want to join our lively community of Mums and Mums-to-be? Why not join us on Facebook @mumiiUK? #parentrequests ask other parents your questions and get their views #win amazing competitions for you and your family #celebs get the latest gossip #reviews find out what we have been testing and rating #fun because being a parent should be entertaining
90 Page 5
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Best baby& toddler gear
counting s k c i k e h t y’s movement s b a b r u o y g n i w o n k T h e i m p o r t a n c e of OU DID YW ? KNOet number of
li n g , is n o s b e fe e T h e re h o u ld s at u o th y ta n t is k ic k s im p o r rmal o n is wh a t is at ow wh . yo u k n r b a by u o y r fo
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ount the kicks” is a mantra that every pregnant woman should adopt. Count the Kicks was set up to empower mums- to- be with knowledge and confidence to understand their baby’s movements and trust their instincts. A baby’s movements indicate its wellbeing so by getting to know their regular pattern of movement mums can report any change and help ensure the healthy delivery of their baby.
What do you need to know? We asked Elizabeth Hutton, CEO of Count the Kicks to answer some commonly asked questions.
When should I first feel my baby move? Most women will usually feel their baby’s first movements around 16 -24 weeks of their pregnancy, however various things can affect when you will feel your baby move, such as whether you are overweight, the position of your placenta, and whether this is your first baby or not. At first your baby’s movements may feel like gas or indigestion! As baby develops, movements can be kicks, swooshes, punches, flips or turns. Hiccups do not count as a movement, they are an involuntary reflex. You can usually differentiate hiccups as they will feel jerky and very rhythmic.
Feeling your baby Most women usually feel baby’s first movements around 16-24 weeks
How many movements should I feel? There is no set number of kicks you should be feeling, what is important is that you know what is normal for your individual baby. If you notice a reduction in your baby’s regular movement pattern contact your Midwife. There is a common misconception that
What are normal movements?
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Know your baby During both day and night, your baby has sleep periods that mostly last between 20 and 40 minutes, but no longer than 90 minutes.
you should be feeling 10 kicks over a set period, this is no longer recommended as all babies are different. Baby’s movements can vary from 4 to over 100 every hour so counting to 10 kicks would be irrelevant for most of the population. It is
Why are my baby’s movements important? Reduced movement can be a sign that baby is in distress although this is not the only reason a baby slows down. 2 out of 3 mums who have a stillbirth say they noticed their baby’s movements slow down beforehand. It is therefore important that all cases of reduced movement are reported to your Midwife or Maternity Unit .
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This is one of the most common questions and the answer is...there isn’t one! There is no set pattern of what is normal for an unborn baby as each baby is different. Instead, it is important to get to know their individual pattern. It is not true that babies slow down as you reach the end of pregnancy, they should continue to move up to and during labour. During both day and night, your baby has sleep periods that mostly last between 20 and 40 minutes, but no longer than 90 minutes. Your baby will usually not move during these sleep periods.
important to know what is normal for your baby and report any change in that. If you have noticed your baby’s movements have slowed down, call your Midwife or Maternity Unit. Do not consume large quantities of something to prompt your baby to kick as this may give indigestion or gurgles, which you may mistake for movements and give yourself false reassurance. If you are unsure if your baby’s movements have slowed down, take some time to focus on movements.
e b n ca ts en em ov m s, op el ev d A s ba b y s. n r tu or s ip fl , es ch n u p , es sh kic k s, swoo s do not count Hiccup Page 7
Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Best baby& toddler gear
Ask your midwife For a Count the Kicks sticker
Measure the kicks You can use a Count the Kicks wristband to keep track.
How can I monitor my baby’s movements?
Should I use a home Doppler if I’m worried about movements?
Get to know your baby. Make a mental note of when he or she moves the most, do they move as soon as you wake up? Do they move when you eat? Do they respond to certain sounds? This can be a great way to get a feel for your baby and if you are concerned about your baby’s movements it gives you a good marker. You can also use one of our kick counting wristbands. These are silicone wristbands that have a plastic slider. Each time you feel the
No! Absolutely not! However accurate a home Doppler is or how confident the mother is in using it, it does not give any indication that the baby is well. If a baby’s movements slow down it could be that they are in distress and this needs to be investigated by a professional. If you see a person collapsed on the street would you check if they had a pulse and walk away? No probably not. You would probably call an ambulance as chances are they are unwell, albeit alive. The same goes for your baby. If they have a heartbeat they can still be unwell and this is the time you need to seek help. If you wait until you can’t find the heartbeat to call the Midwife or Maternity Unit, it is too late.
Be aware If you notice reduced movements, don’t hesitate to contact your midwife or maternity unit straight away.
baby move, you move the slider along one. You may then start to notice that your baby moves 4 times before lunch for example. Or 8 times by the time you have your afternoon tea. If one day you do not reach your expected number you know to call your Midwife. It is really important to remember that there is no set number you need to get to, it will depend on what is normal for your baby. You also don’t need to count each individual kick, instead count sessions of movement.
Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Where can we find out more? You can find lots of information on baby’s movements, how you can fundraise as well as lots of fantastic pregnancy advice at www.countthekicks.org.uk
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Monique’s Story I saw Count the Kicks on Facebook whilst pregnant. At 38 weeks I started noticing a drop in movement and, at first, was nervous about contacting the midwives. I was also told by lots of people that it was nothing to worry about and d that there ‘just wasn’t much h room oom left in there’ or that ‘she is getting ready to be born.’ I did go to the hospital after reading the advice online produced by Count the Kicks, and the midwives were able to monitor my baby and reassure me. After 3 occasions of reduced movement I was scanned and it was found that I had reduced blood flow from the placenta. I was immediately induced and now have a happy, healthy baby girl, Emilie Mae. Thank you Count the Kicks!
Empowering mums-to-be with knowledge and confidence.
COUNTTHEKICKS.ORG.UK
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How you define ce you r birth experien is up to you
Feel positive about your birth t you want f rom A welcoming place to con side r wha
H
ow do you feel about giving birth? Chances are, you might be
a bit scared, or even dreading the big day. You might also have been told that giving birth will be agony, or that
Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
you have to ‘leave your dignity at the door’. But is this true? Who can you ask – who can you turn to to find out more? Step forward the Positive Birth Movement (PBM). Established in 2012, in just three years
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chi ldbi rt h
this grassroots network has grown into a nationwide organisation. With over 200 PBM groups across the UK, and more than 100 across the rest of the world, they are a leading voice in the childbirth conversation,
and the ‘go to’ place for anyone interested in finding out how they can take control of their birth experience. Better still, all of their groups are free to attend. Milli Hill, Founder of PBM, talks to us about being positive throughout your labour.
Tell us more about PBM groups? Most groups meet once a month, either in a community room or in the Facilitator’s home. In a friendly and welcoming space, often with tea and cake, PBM groups discuss a different monthly theme, from ‘Pain’, to ‘Positive Caesarean’, to ‘What does giving birth feel like?’! At the PBM, we believe you already know how to give birth! We aim to restore your confidence in the process of giving birth, and so we try to create
a space where women can support one another to believe in themselves, to feel positive about giving birth, to challenge any fears you may have and to understand more about their rights, and the many options and choices available.
How is this different to other antenatal classes? In PBM groups the emphasis is on sharing thoughts and ideas, and listening to each other. There is no ‘teacher’, although all of our groups are facilitated by women who are passionate about birth as a positive experience, many of whom are Midwives or other birth professionals.
What does ‘Positive Birth’ mean? Fear not, we are not the ‘Home Birth Movement’, or even the ‘Natural Birth
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Movement’. People who come to our groups make all kinds of choices and we respect every woman’s right to decide where and how she has her baby. PBM think a positive birth means a birth in which a woman feels she has freedom of choice, access to accurate information and that she is in control, powerful and respected. A birth that she approaches, perhaps with some trepidation, but without fear or dread, and that she then goes on to enjoy and later remember with warmth and pride. You can birth with positivity in hospital or at home, with or without medical intervention. You can have a positive caesarean, or a positive home water birth. Positive Birth is about approaching birth realistically, having genuine choice, and feeling empowered by your experience.
Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Best baby& toddler gear
Mel’s Story When Mel Lyons’s midwife felt her bump at 35 weeks, she suspected the baby was in the breech position, or ‘head up’. A week later, a scan confirmed this. Mel had been planning a home birth, and felt really disappointed when her midwives told o lon onger ger be possible. her this would no longer
Growing trend The number of PBM groups across the world
Mel turned to her local PBM group, where she received lots of advice and information from other mothers who had ‘been there, done that’:
There is a full and up to date list of groups on the PBM website. If you need any extra support or have any questions, you can email info@positivebirthmovement.org
the adventure of motherhood, so please do look out for your nearest group if you have a small baby, even if you have not been able to attend during your pregnancy.
What if my birth is not positive? What if there isn’t a group near me? They have a strong presence on social media and many pregnant women find great support through our Facebook page (www.facebook.com/positivebirthmovement) or their group ‘Positive Birthers’. They also have strong links with the organisation ‘Tell Me A Good Birth Story’ (www.tellmeagoodbirthstory.com), who will match you with a personal ‘Birth Buddy’ – someone to talk to who has been through a similar pregnancy or birth experience to you.
How you define your birth experience is up to you. If you feel you have not had a positive experience, their Facilitators are happy to support you. It’s quite possible you will want to share your story with your group, especially if you have been attending for a while during your pregnancy and have built up a rapport with others. However, if your Facilitator feels it’s not the best place for you to share your story, she will either help you to debrief in person or signpost you to places where you can get the support you need to process your experience.
What about after I’ve had my baby? You can attend your PBM group once your baby is born, in fact, we actively encourage people to come back and share their birth story. They think that women who have been through birth have a huge amount to offer and can pass on their experiences to other expectant mums. It’s also great to have a network of support as you begin
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Where can we find out more? Visit www.positivebirthmovement.org to find out more, or find them on Facebook www.facebook.com/ positivebirthmovement or Twitter @birthpositive
“Through my Positive Birth Group, I managed to find out about a host of other methods commonly used to try and encourage a breech baby to turn. Although none of it worked, it did feel good to know that we were more informed and were trying everything we could.” Mel also began to research ‘hands off’ breech delivery, but was disappointed to find out that this approach was not offered at her local hospital. Feeling she had no other option than a caesarean, Mel turned turned again to her local PBM group, and, as well as receiving what she describes as an ‘amazing’ level of support, she was also told that there was a specialist clinic in her area that offered the ‘hands off’ breech birth she so desperately wanted. “This small piece of information made all the difference to me”, Mel explains. “Although I knew I might still not get my ideal birth, it was feeling like I had a choice that was important to me. As it turned out, I was able to have a natural, active labour, and delivered my baby kneeling on the bed. I’m so grateful to the support I received at my PBM group, which helped me take control of my options, even when it seemed like I didn’t have any.”
t or p p su of k or w et n a ve a h It’s also g reat toe adventu re of mot herhood a s you begin th
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How do I find my nearest group?
Best Baby & Toddler Gear 2015/16
Meet Up, Link Up, Shake Up www.positivebirthmovement.org
Positive Birth Groups aim to be a helpful part of your pregnancy; a warm and welcoming place to hear stories and ideas, to consider what you really want from your childbirth experience, and to challenge any fears or negative expectations you might have. All our groups are free - to find your nearest visit
www.positivebirthmovement.org
Best baby& toddler gear
the stem cell n o ti revolu f u t u r e w i t h s t e m c e l l s t o ra g
Safegua rd you r litt le one’s
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o, your little bundle of joy is on their way and you’ve been preparing for their arrival for months. Decorated the nursery, check. Purchased an unnatural number of tiny baby grows, check. Attended every baby Yoga, baby Pilates and baby Yogalates class going, check. Organised stem cell collection, possibly not. Cord blood stem cell collection is a unique, non-invasive and simple procedure which ensures that your baby’s future health is protected. As parents, we are programmed to plan for every eventuality of our child’s future, so why not their health? Roger J Dainty MBE, UK Managing Director for Future Health Biobank, talks to us about the development in stem cell research and collection.
What exactly are stem cells? Stem cells are the building blocks of life, cord blood stem cells are already being used to treat over 85 medical conditions including leukaemia’s, anaemias and thalassemia’s, and the list is constantly growing. Cord tissue cells work very differently to the cord blood cells, as they are experts in body repair and regeneration. This means they could potentially be used, in the future, for tissue and bone regeneration, wound healing and to treat illnesses such as diabetes, cerebral palsy and heart disease.
How are stem cells collected? Cord blood stem cell collection is an incredibly simple process in which these unique cells are collected from the placenta and umbilical cord once your baby has been safely delivered. These cells are then sent off to the laboratory to be tested and prepared for storage.
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Why choose Future Health Biobank? Future Health Biobank is the largest bank in the UK, processing and storing for over 65,000 families. We are a fully accredited global company, successfully storing samples from over 70 different countries.
Have you released any stem cells for treatment? A child becoming seriously ill is, for many parents, an incomprehensible thought. However, unfortunately for some children, this is a very real reality. Laith Abu Areesh, 16, had unfortunately been diagnosed with Fanconi’s Anemia; a serious life threatening disorder that can lead to bone marrow failure. Luckily Laith’s family had made the decision to store stem cells from his younger sister with Future Health Biobank and doctors were able to perform a successful stem cell transfusion. It was these unique stem cells that saved their son and gave him a second chance at life. Today Laith is able to live a normal happy and healthy life.
BUIL BLOCK DING S OF LI
FE C o rd c e ll s a b lo o d s t e m re b e in g t re a t o ve r 8 5 u s e d t o c o n d it m e d ic a l io n s Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
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Cord blood stem cell collec tion is a unique, non-le inva sive and simph p rocedu re whic r en su res that you baby’s futu re healt h is p rotec ted
Stem cell success Laith is now able to live a normal, happy and healthy life
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Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Best baby& toddler gear
A parent’s choice William chose to collect and store stem cells for his daughter
William’s Story
We were surprised at just how simple the whole process was from the moment we decided to go ahead to the moment the cord blood was successfully collected and stored. At every step, there was a friendly voice on the end of the phone to ask questions and guide you through the process. Once you give Future Health Biobank the go ahead, they send out the necessary consent forms which can be completed online taking just a few minutes. Once complete, you are sent a collection pack via courier which you must take to the hospital with you. We told the hospital of our wishes before labour and included it in our birth plan. The midwives were very supportive of our decision to have stem cells collected following the birth. Future Health Biobank assign you a
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phlebotomist who is charged with collecting the mother’s bloods and cells after the birth. We spoke to our phlebotomist, Sunday from Leicestershire, who ran through the whole process so that we would be confident when it came to d-day. Once my wife went into labour, we had to let him know by phone and keep him posted about how labour was developing by phone / text whatever the time of day or night. Sunday arrived in plenty of time so at no point did we have to worry about anything other than the safe arrival of our daughter! Once our daughter had arrived (in our case naturally but the same would have been true had she had arrived via c-section), the phlebotomist was there to collect the necessary cells from the umbilical cord. Bloods from my wife were also to be taken by Sunday, but my wife opted for our midwife to take these as she had already built up a relationship with her during labour our midwife was happy to organise. Once the process is complete, you are asked to ring Future Health Biobank to arrange for box collection. They sent out a car to collect the box even though it was a Sunday - we even knew a time for collection which ensured that we were at home. Once Future Health Biobank have received the sample, they are analysed to check cell counts etc. This is then reported to you by phone and
you receive a certificate indicating safe storage storag sto r ge rag and providing details of what you need to do if you would like to access the cells. The whole process was simple, fast and efficient at every stage. Future Health Biobank were on hand for any questions and the collection of the samples could not have been managed better. We know we have made the right decision to have the cells collected as this might be the key to our child’s long term health, and potentially that of other family members. It is an insurance policy which we sincerely hope we will never need of course - but should the worst happen, there is hope for a positive outcome. We would recommend Future Health Biobank to anyone considering stem cell collection and storage.
Where can we find out more? Visit the website www.futurehealthbiobank.co.uk to find out more, or find them on Facebook www.facebook.com/Future.Health. BIOBANK.UK or Twitter @futurehealthuk
d of the en e th on e ic vo ly nd ie fr a as w e er At every step th e process th h ug ro th u yo e id gu d an ns tio es phone to ask qu
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tem cell collection and storage has been around for some time now. My wife, Jo and I looked into it when we had our first child many years ago, as we firmly believed that there would a be huge development in this field over time. At the time however, we felt that it was expensive and unfortunately beyond our reach. However, 9 years later, it is now more affordable and is something that we wanted to pursue. Their stem cells could be the one thing they need to help them recover from or even survive an illness in the future.
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r u o y g n i s o cho t a e s r a c t s r i f s y a h n d w t e he ho w s! h t , s t a h w e Guiding y gh t h ou t h rou
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hoosing your baby’s first car seat requires research, which can quickly transcend in to information overload – do you just get the seat for the travel system and do you really need a base? Jan James, Chief Executive of Good Egg Safety, has demistified the confusion, by detailing the top things to research when buying your baby’s first car seat. “There are currently two types of car seats you can buy – those approved to R44.04 and those approved to R129 i-Size. Regulation 44.04 is the older regulation. Child seats tested to this standard are selected on your child’s weight, over their age. R129 i-Size car seats were introduced in 2013, and these seats are based on your child’s stature and age. Babies travelling in R129 i-Size car seats must travel rear facing until they are
Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
15 months, and many i-Size seats will allow you to rear face beyond this age. In either regulation seat, it is important to keep your baby rear facing for as long as possible. You have three options for your baby’s first seat – a lie flat system, a rear facing infant seat, or a combination seat. Lie flat car carry
Two sets of regulation There are currently two types of car seat regulation - R44.04 and R129 i-Size. Seats made to either set of regulations are safe and legal to use.
cots are not so common, but are very good for tiny or premature babies. They allow your little one to lie flat, which helps keep their airways open. Rear facing R44 approved infant seats normally last until your baby is 13kg or until
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the top of their head is level with the top of the seat. The seats are portable, often have the option of a base, and often fit to the pram. R129 i-Size infant seats are also available. Another option is a long lasting combination seat, these start off rear facing, and normally allow you to rear face your baby up to 13kg or 18kg. They often have a forward facing option for when your baby is older if you wish to turn them around. These seats tend to stay fitted into the vehicle, and there are belt fitted, ISOfix and R129 i-Size options available (not all combination seats are suitable for a baby under 6 months, always ensure that the seat is fully suitable from newborn) Once you have decided which option suits you best – portable infant seat or combination long lasting, there are different features offered by seats which are important to consider.
TWO S ONE BEATS, ASE i- S iz e m o
d u la r s s ys te m e at s such as the iZ i G o B e S a fe M o d u la r a ll ow u s e yo yo u to ur car s e at b a s e fo r u p to 4 ye a r s .
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You have t h r op t i o n s f o r y e e ba b y ’ s f i r s t o u r a lie flat sy sseat a rea r facintem, i n f a n t se a t , o g combination r a se a t
Best Baby baby & Toddler toddler gear Gear2015/16 2015/16
Best baby& toddler gear
The facts! The number of incorrectly fitted seats is on the rise
ISOfix explained A guide to how it works
Green light
Red light
Easy release
This indicates that the seat has been fitted securely and correctly
STOP! Something isn’t right. Check you have installed the car seat correctly
An ISOfix base allows you to secure and remove seat effortlessly
ISOfix or Belt fit? – ISOfix is considered safer than seat belt fitted seats as it is easier to fit, reducing the risk of fitting the seat incorrectly. A seat belt fitted seat is still safe and will perform well in a collision, however they are not always as easy to fit as ISOfix seats. Base or no base? – Buying a base for your infant seat will make fitting your seat quick and easy, with the peace of mind that it is fitted correctly. Side Impact Protection – seats can have varying levels of side impact protection, so when choosing your baby’s seat, look for those which have deeply padded side wings to protect their head, neck and spine. Newborn inserts – Seats can have different newborn inserts, which are removed as your baby grows. Opt for ones with newborn inserts which are deeply padded to provide additional support to your newborn. Easy Adjust Harness – convenience and safety in one feature! Look for seats which
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Second hand seats There can be a temptation to buy a second hand seat however, we always reccomend you buy a new seat so you know its full history.
have a simple lever adjustment of the harness to increase the height, over seats with a harness that needs to be removed from the seat and re-threaded at the desired height each time you need to change. It is also important to consider where you are going to buy your seat from – online stores will often give you the best price, but you then don’t benefit from the expertise of trained staff. Good Egg always recommend that you buy from a retail store with properly trained staff members who will spend time with you showing you different seats and trying them in your car for the perfect fit. Not every seat fits every car, so it is important to ensure
Where can we find out more? Visit www.goodeggsafety.com or find them on Facebook www.facebook.com/goodeggsafety or Twitter @goodeggsafety
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ISOfix base Anchors on to two small metal bars in your vehicle
your seat is compatible com tib to every vehicle it will be used in. We do not recommend buying online, and many retail stores do offer price matching. It is often tempting to accept hand me downs from friends, or to buy a base second hand – we always recommend that you buy a new seat so that you know its full history, that it is in good working order and so you can also benefit from the warranty provided. Child seats are one use only, and the safety can be compromised in collisions as low as 6mph. Another option for your infant seat if you buy a portable one, is that you can often fit it to your pram giving you a parent facing travel system. Travel systems are very convenient, especially in the early days! However, it is very important to be mindful of the amount of time your little one spends in the seat, and they shouldn’t spend any more than 90 minutes at a time as this compromises their oxygen levels. Finally, once you have chosen the perfect seat for your little one, and ensured it is fitted safely, your little one must be strapped in safely.”
om fr t a se r ou y g in y u b e r a Con sider where thyoue best p rice, but possibly at the online may give pen se of experti se ex
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NEW from Scandinavia the BeSafe iZi Modular car seat system. Suitable from newborn to approx 4 years you only need to buy one base for both seats. BeSafe iZi Modular also meets the latest i-Size Standards, can be used rearward or forward facing and uniquely can be extended to increase the child’s leg room as they grow! See www.carseat.co.uk for Retailers.
For more information contact BeSafe UK/Ireland on: sales@hts.no
Best baby& toddler gear
Buying Your ir a ch sh Pu t rs Fi E n s u re y o u p right pu shchai r t he fi rst time a round u rc h a s e t h e
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1
Your child’s needs
If you intend to use your pushchair with a newborn baby you will need to select either a pushchair with a fully reclining ‘lie-flat’ seat or a carrycot which will then fit onto the pushchair chassis. Take a look at the ‘Why Buy a Carry Cot’ panel over the page. You may prefer to have your baby facing towards you so that you can see exactly what they’re up to; this will also assist with bonding as well as social and emotional development. The vast majority of prams and pushchairs now feature a reversible seat, which has the ability to face forwards or towards you. Comfort is always going to be high on the agenda - a comfortable baby is a happy baby and will be
Newborn s need to lay flat unti l they a re able to support the weight of thei r own head
more likely to nap when you’re out and about. This will also help you to feel more relaxed. Also look out for additional features such a weatherproof covers; footmuffs to keep them warm and cosy, adjustable seat angles and well padded seating.
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Your lifestyle
It’s important to choose a pushchair that fits with your lifestyle and reflects where you intend to use the stroller. Do you live in an urban area, a suburb or further out in a more rural area? Urban pushchairs are often designed to be smaller and lighter weight so they’re easy to use on busy streets and on public transport. For a rural area you may require a pushchair more suited to all-terrain use. These typically will be bigger and more rugged, often with three wheels and tyres suited to life outdoors. If you’re in the suburbs or will use the pushchair on a mixture of terrain then you may have to opt for a more ‘all-round’ pushchair. Obviously this will be a compromise in some areas but may be the better option. If you’re a shopaholic you’re going to need a decent sized shopping basket underneath the seat. It’s also going to be important to consider the size of your home
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uying your first pushchair can be a confusing experience. There are so many brands and models to choose from and it often seems like everyone gives you different advice. You obviously want the best start in life for your first child, so how exactly DO you go about choosing your first pushchair? Here are the six main things to consider from iCandy’s registered Midwife and Health Visitor, Katie Hilton.
P TOP Te Iwebsite,
o u t th e r t .c o m Check a ire x p s u hch .p d and w a e w r w t ou can y e r e e la te s wh s o f th w ie v e r wa tc h m o d e ls
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and your car. You’re going to need to be able to maneuver in and out of the hallway and potentially up and downstairs. If you’re short of space does the pushchair you’re buying free stand so it takes up less room in the house? Most people will transport and store their pushchair in the boot of their car, if you’re going for this option, be sure to check the size of your boot, if you can only just squeeze in the pushchair where is all that shopping going to go?!
3
Your budget
The price of a pushchair varies hugely and of course budget is often one of the main deciding factors when choosing a pushchair. If you plan on having more children and intend to pass your pushchair on to your next baby you’re going to need to invest a little in durability. Some pushchairs will convert into a double pushchair once your second child comes along – this may save you money meaning you don’t have to buy another pushchair. Don’t forget that you’ll need a Group 0 car seat in order to take your newborn out of hospital, so you’ll need to budget for this in addition to your pushchair.
Canopy Does it provide enough protection from the elements?
Best baby& toddler gear Recline
Adjustable stab Handle
How easy is it to recline a sleeping baby?
Can it be adjusted so it is a comfortable height to push?
Basket Does it cater for ds your daily needs?
Style Do you like the looks? You may well have to push it for 3+ years!
Wheels & Tyres Do you need something suitable co for country or town?
From Birth Fr
Fold
You will need a carrycot or lie-flat seat
4
Try before you buy
It may sound obvious but it’s really important to ‘test drive’ any pushchair you are considering to buy to make sure you’re happy with how it feels to push and particularly how it folds. You wouldn’t buy a car without driving it first and it’s the same principle with a pushchair that you’ll possibly be using most days for a couple of years at least. It’s essential that you’re comfortable using your pushchair, and most stores will be happy to let you try out a product before you make a purchase. Take your car as well if you can, this way you can also make sure it fits in your boot!
5
What is a Travel System?
You might want to opt for a pushchair that is a ‘travel system’ – this means that you can attach a car seat to the pushchair chassis, meaning you don’t have to wake your baby up getting them in and out of the car seat. While choosing your travel system pushchair it’s worth checking which car seats are compatible with it. This varies ost depending on the brand, and most will have a list of approved car h seats that have been tested with the product to ensure safety. You may need to purchase adaptors to attach the car seat to the pushchair separately, so be sure to check if they are included or not.
It may sound obviou s but it’s really important to te st d rive any pu shchair you a re con sidering
Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
“
“
Do you need a compact fold? Is it easy to do?
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6
Why buy a carrycot?
Carrycots can often seem like an unnecessary expense, but they are the safest way to transport your baby until roughly the age of 6 months. Newborns need to lay flat until they are able to support the weight of their own head – this protects spinal development and opens their airways fully. A carrycot is the perfect way to do this and aalso enables your baby to explore hands aand feet, as well as encouraging inte interaction with parents. Check if th the pushchair you’re considering b buying has a carrycot option, if n not it should have the option of a ccompletely lie-flat seat unit. Also d don’t forget that newborn babies sh shouldn’t be in their car seat (in the car or on the pushchair as part of a travel system) s for longer than 2 hours as this can impact their development.
Where can we find out more? Visit www.icandyworld.com or find them on Facebook www.facebook. com/iCandyWorld or on Twitter @iCandyWorld
The journey starts right here We’re proud of our heritage and our achievements, but we’re even more proud that we’ve been able to help parents give their child the very best start in life. Our pushchairs are a celebration of the beauty of life, and the journey of love and joy that a baby brings.
Discover more www.icandyworld.com
Best baby& toddler gear
Guide to ng ri Babywea h a n d s f re e Foot loose and
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the size of baby varies greatly from day one to independence so it is really important that the carrier you choose is flexible and can be easily adjusted to tighten down and fit you and baby exactly. Putting on a carrier, popping your baby in and getting on with day-to-day tasks or simply taking in some fresh air and exercise is good for both of you! If you are thinking of using sing a sling or baby carrier with your baby there are a number of considerations you will want to take into account.
Who is going to use it? If people of different sizes are going to be using the carrier then you need to make sure it can be quickly and easily adjusted.
Where and w when will you use the carrier? If you aare going to be using the sling or carrier for long pe periods of time, you want to look for one that offers aan even distribution of weight over both o sshoulders to allow you to ccarry more comfortably fo for longer.
Here, we ask Michelle Smith, Marketing Manager at Close, to tell us what to consider when buying a sling or carrier.
What is your budget? Wha How old is your baby? by? Different slings and carriers ers are available for babies at different ages and stages so you need to make sure that you are choosing something that is appropriate to your baby’s age and stage.
How easy is it to put on and use by myself? If you are going to be using the carrier on your
Put on a ca rrier, pop in your baby and get on with your day to day ta sks
Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
own then you need to be sure that you choose something that is quick and easy to put on and use by yourself.
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Costs fo for carriers vary greatly depending o on materials used and types of carrier and you will find that there is something to suit all budgets.
Will you be using the carrier mainly during hot weather, cold weather or both?
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A
sling or carrier can be a brilliant addition to a new mum’s kit list and there are many benefits to using one for both you and your little one. It can help to make early parenthood more manageable as well as being much better for your back than simply carrying your little one in your arms. Using a sling or carrier means you have all the freedom of being ‘hands free‘ whilst being able to respond to their cues and react quickly to their needs, you can maintain visual contact and keep them close to you. This closeness is a very natural extension of skin-to-skin and shares many of the same emotional and developmental benefits, easing the transition for your little one which can help them to feel safer and calmer. It also provides your partner with the perfect opportunity to bond, and do some of the soothing themselves, whilst giving you a well-earned break! Using a sling or carrier that supports baby in the correct way for their developing hips and spine is important. Your little one should be held comfortably close to you, chest to chest with the rounded ‘C’ curve shape they are born with fully respected. Their legs should be supported from back of the knee to their back allowing them to sit in a natural “M” or “Frog legged” position, where their bottom sits lower than their knees avoiding any strain on their developing hips or overspreading. Obviously
This will have a bearing on what kind of fabric you are looking for.
VISITUP A G RO e m a n y
n e o f th u p s o r Vis it o g g ro a r r y in s b a by c b r a r ie s li n g li ke li t e e to m s d mu m m in d e
Different types of carrier that are available Stretchy Wraps are a good choice for newborns and are made from one long piece of stretchy fabric. They can be tied before baby is put in and can be used on the front only. Ring slings are worn over one shoulder and are easily adjusted to fit the wearer. Babies can be carried in upright position and on the hip when older. Pouch slings are simple fabric garments that are worn over one shoulder. Easy to use and often adjustable so they can be worn by different sized people. Mei Tais have a more structured body panel and straps and are versatile so can be used on the front, back or hip (when baby is older). Soft Structured Carriers also have a panel of fabric with straps and normally fasten with buckles so they are easy to put on and can also be used on the front, back and hip (when aby is older). Woven Wraps are also long pieces of woven fabric that give a lot of support and can be used on the front, back and hip (when baby is older). Stretchy Hybrids offer the flexibility of a stretchy wrap but remove the need for tying and can be used from newborn to toddler in a variety of positions.
Sling safety Slings and carriers are perfectly safe to use as long as you adhere to some simple safety guidelines for keeping your little one close and safe. The T.I.C.K.S Rules for Safe Babywearing have been put together to ensure you are carrying your little one in the safest possible way. The T.I.C.K.S Rules apply to all types and styles of carrier and it is worth bearing in mind these important points when you are trying on and choosing your baby carrier.
✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
TIGHT IN VIEW AT ALL TIMES CLOSE ENOUGH TO KISS KEEP CHIN OFF THE CHEST SUPPORTED BACK
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Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Best baby& toddler gear TIGHT - slings and carriers should be tight enough to hug your little one close to you as this will be most comfortable for you both.
IN VIEW AT ALL TIMES - you should always be able to see your baby’s face by simply glancing down.
CLOSE ENOUGH TO KISS - your little one’s head should be as close to your chin as is comfortable. By tipping your head forward you should be able to kiss your baby on the head or forehead.
KEEP CHIN OFF THE CHEST - a baby should never be curled so their chin is forced onto their chest as this can restrict their breathing. Ensure there is always a space of at least a finger width under your baby’s chin.
SUPPORTED BACK - in an upright carrier a baby should be held comfortably close to the wearer so their back is supported in its natural position and their tummy and chest are against you. If a sling is too loose they can slump which can partially close their airway. This can be tested by placing a hand on their back and pressing gently, they shouldn’t uncurl or move closer to you.
Caboo DX+ Merino Coolpass is a highly advanced synthetic fabric that keepd baby cool and dry in summer and warm in winter.
It is important to remember the following points: Never cover your baby’s head or face, regularly check your baby is secure and has freeflowing air and monitor them constantly Don’t overdress your little one when carrying, as a general rule both of you should wear one less layer and dress according to the ambient temperature Regularly check your carrier for any signs of wear or damage too. With practice it will be second nature for you to use a sling or carrier, before your little one is born you can you can practice with a soft toy or doll in front of the mirror and once baby has arrived you can practice using it with another adult nearby or close to a bed or sofa, until you have built up your confidence. Parents are often confused about when they can start carrying and how long is appropriate. All carriers vary but many are suitable from birth even with pre-term babies. Assuming the TICKS are followed, there’s no need to impose a time limit given that baby is likely to wake for feeds & nappy changes. If your baby is under 3 months and has been sleeping longer than usual you may want to wake them.
Carrying an older baby For a newborn baby the carrier that may best suit your needs will probably be different to the carrier that you move on to when they are older. Some carriers grow with your baby and offer different positions so you can carry baby on your hip or back and can therefore use them with your baby for longer.
Breast feeding in a carrier Many good soft carriers also offer you the ability to feed in the carrier with a high degree of privacy. Not all Mums can nurse
Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
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hands-free in a baby carrier but a properly adjusted carrier in the breastfeeding position can still help to take the weight of your little one, reducing arm strain and allowing you more freedom of movement while nursing.
Carrying and reflux A good carrier with a supportive newborn upright position can be a very practical solution for parents of little ones suffering from reflux. Popping them into the carrier after every feed for a minimum of 30 minutes can really help to ease their symptoms whilst you get on with your day.
Babywearing in special situations Parents of babies with special needs, premature or low birthweight babies and twins can still carry their babies, you should choose a carrier promoted for use from a lower birth weight. We would recommend that you seek professional advice and discuss what sling or carrier may be best with a babywearing consultant.
Expert advice You need to make sure that whatever carrier you choose is right for you. There is a fantastic network of volunteer-run sling libraries across the UK now who can help you to find the right carrier and answer any questions you may have. They hire out a selection of slings so you can see which type may work best for you and try before you buy. There are also trained Babywearing Consultants who can provide a sling consultancy service to parents, usually for a fee and should be qualified and insured to do so.
Where can we find out more? www.closeparent.com or find them on Facebook www.facebook.com/ Closeltd or Twitter @closeparent
10% STAND C23
when using atoffHarrogate
caboo10 on our website code expires 1/4/16
Best baby& toddler gear
DS AWARINFO a t io n EXToRreA in fo r m s t r ie Fo r m a r ’s e n t h is ye to d a e about h ne rs, in w d an o .u k
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eed a little inspiration in picking products? Look no further, as you’ll find everything you need to know about right here. Choosing the best products to suit you and your baby or toddler can be tricky. With so much choice out there and every product claiming to be the best of its kind, making the right decision is no mean feat! This Inspiration Guide has been designed to help you cut through the noise and find the best products on the market for your needs and lifestyle. Put simply, we’ve done the research
Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
so that you don’t have to. From soothers and wipes, to changing bags and toys, furniture and car seats, it’s no wonder that shopping can become an overwhelming experience for us parents and parents-to-be. But armed with the right help, advice and support, we actually think that shopping for gear for your little one can be rather fun. That’s why we’ve created this bumper Inspiration Guide. It is your complete baby and toddler product manual, giving you the lowdown on the style, practicalities and features of almost 100 products in pretty
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much every imaginable parenting category. Each product in this guide has been entered into the Best baby & toddler gear Awards 2015 and has therefore been scrupulously tested by real-life mums and dads and scored by industry experts. Mums and dads who walk in your shoes and face the same daily parenting trials and tribulations as you have!
Best baby& toddler gear
phil&teds emotion baby carrier
ine Includes 2 machhine bs washable dribb le bibs for quick & easy clean upp
Price £59
Reviewer’s thoughts Putting on and taking off this carrier was easy. Being able to leave the harness in place under a coat for later use is really handy too!
D
esigned to fit your body and nurture your baby, phil&teds emotion is easily adjustable for different parents and distributes weight evenly for maximum m comfort. Quick and independent vest style fitting g and clever one-handed clips allow you to safely secure baby. Able to be worn with baby facing you or the world, emotion’s ultra adjustable crutch strap grows with babies up to 15kg. Made from the highest grade oekotex first class cotton blend textiles, emotion is superbly sensitive for delicate new skin and features breathable mesh sides to maximise airflow. With two removable dribble bibs included, keeping clean is easy and emotion is also machine washable for any little accidents. With a luxurious quilted design, emotion is available in a range of contemporary colours to co-ordinate with your life.
handed clip e han neoneCleverr on Cleve secure baby sys m to sec syste
SEE MORE AT www.philandteds.com
phil&teds airlight baby carrier
Just hip, clip & zi zipp!!
Reviewer’s thoughts This carrier is definitely designed for travel, it can be folded down in to its own pouch to go in to the smallest space in your handbag or luggage.
Price £39
I
ncredibly light and compact, airlight selfstores into its own padded belt allowing you to be ‘prepared for anything’. The airlight enables you to carry children from newborn as a front carrier, then on your back as they grow. When other carriers leave you grappling with straps & wondering which way is up, airlight is ready to jet off to your destination. It’s as simple as hip, clip and zip! With the highest grade Oekotex cotton blend fabric and breathable mesh sides, airlight is first class in comfort and safety for little bodies. A safety lock zip allows easy access, while the provided newborn insert keeps baby in an optimal carrying position. The airlight is available in a range of energetic colours and is machine washable. Perfect for leaving in the car, handbag or travelling when space is at a premium, airlight lets you go places in super speedy style.
Newborn insert included
Stores inssid idee its soft pa dded hip belt
SEE MORE AT www.philandteds.com
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Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Best baby& toddler gear
Caboo dx+ +coolpass
has urba n Th is ca rrier er thermoev cl d an g in styl ateria ls m g tin la regu
Price £84.99
Reviewer’s thoughts I love the look of this carrier - a mixture of my favourite wraps style mixed with a soft carrier. Baby is kept in the correct position at all times.
A
versatile 3 in 1 hybrid carrier, Caboo dx+ is as comfortable supporting a tiny 5lb bundle of joy on day one as it is piggybacking a not so little nipper who has decided today walking just isn’t for them. With its urban styling, clever thermo-regulating materials and oodles of structured support, it makes the perfect soft carrier. Featuring multiple hands free carrying positions including discreet breastfeeding support, it’s also the first Caboo that may be used on the back offering parents an assisted back carrying position with full head support, thanks to its unique design.
your baby near with K Keep Close’s brand new 3 in 1 hybrid
SEE MORE AT www.closeparent.com
Caboo + organic
Reviewer’s thoughts My absolute favourite! My child felt very well supported and I think it is very good value for money too.
Price £64.99
T
he tried and tested Caboo system has set the benchmark for soft carrying; it goes on quickly and easily over the head and will adjust to fit parent and baby exactly with very little effort, thanks to Close’s unique ring system. It offers the most flexible sizing across their range and its gorgeous new double faced fabric means Caboo+ organic is the ultimate in luxury and style, cocooning baby in folds of beautifully soft organic material. With its beautiful new curves and additional support parents can Caboo with their newborn to their heart’s content in both comfort and style!
Close offers flexib le sizing across its range
The ultima ate tte in luxury; now ava ilab le in Clo se’s gorgeous new do ub le faced soft organ ic fabrics
SEE MORE AT www.closeparent.com Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
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Best baby& toddler gear
Connecta Baby Carrier Price £68
Reviewer’s thoughts Revie I loved this carrier! c It is easy to use, folds up small enough eno to carry around when not being used, us and it was easy to fit!
T
he Connecta offers parents the unique opportunity to carry baby from newborn through to toddlerhood with one carrier. The Connecta has a unique design which allows one carrier to be easily shared between more than one adult. The ever- evolving collection of contemporary designs and links to quintessential British brands – Liberty and Harris Tweed, means parents can carry their baby in comfort and style. The Connecta is suitable from birth (7.5 lbs) to 2.5 years with toddler and pre-school models available for those who wish to continue carrying, or who start carrying with older children. The Connecta allows baby and parent to feel connected through shared experience.
Suitable from bi (7.5lbs) to birth 2.5 years
Soft waistband for optimum comfort
SEE MORE AT www.connectababycarrier.com
A nappy bin like no other... practical...
Complete odour control and it could save you up to £10 per month!* Stylish, easy to use and hygienic and looks great in
economical...
any baby's nursery, bedroom or bathroom. It's economical too as no special bags are required.
beautiful...
Uses regular pedal bin bags, less expensive than
Sweet!
waterproof washable cotton liner. Also suitable for
hard to find bespoke refills, or you can use the reusable nappies. Powder coated steel with rubber seals for complete odour control - 11 cool colours.
* Typical running costs compared to a cartridge nappy disposal system
www.ubbiworld.co.uk
diaper pail
facebook.com/UbbiWorldUK
Best baby& toddler gear
Puj Flyte
Folds flat
Price £29.99
T
he Puj Flyte allows you to conveniently bath your baby in a basin, comfortably cradling baby in its soft to touch material. Unlike a traditional baby bath, the Flyte allows you to bathe baby at a convenient height without any back-breaking bending. Flyte is designed to fold so it easily fits into a suitcase or bag for holidays or weekends away. Also, storage is not a problem as Flyte will hang on the bathroom wall or in a shower enclosure. The BPA and PVC free material is resistant to mould and mildew so baby bathes in a safe and comfortable environment.
SEE MORE AT
Reviewer’s thoughts I love the concept of the Puj Flyte. It is original and I think this product could fill a gap in the market as many people only have a shower now. It would also be beneficial to those with back problems or mobility issues, or to be kept at the grandparent’s house etc. as it is very unobtrusive to store.
Soft tto to uc S materia l
www.pujbaby.co.uk
Cuddledry ‘hands free’ baby bath towel
Do ub le layers of supersoft, antibact erial ba mbboo/cotton tow elling
Price £29.99
h
Reviewer’s thoughts The towel is lovely and soft against my little one’s skin. It’s nice and big, so kept him warm after his bath. It washes and dries well and still remains nice and soft. I would recommend this to other parents.
A
Cuddledry ‘hands free’ towel genuinely takes the stress and juggling act out of baby bathtime, giving new parents confidence and bonding time with their baby - out of the bath and into your arms, in the cuddliest, most natural way possible. This clever towel is worn like an apron, keeping you dry and leaving both hands free to lift your baby safely from the water and cuddle them straight to you. Put its hood on the baby’s head, and they are instantly snuggled into a unique, warm doublelayer system of naturally soft bamboo and pure cotton, and you can cuddle them dry without getting wet. Winner of over 40 awards, it’s a product that, once discovered, is recommended by parent-to-parent, as one thing that genuinely makes baby bathtime easier.
Attaches to you so your hands are free to safely bath, lift and dry baby
SEE MORE AT www.cuddledry.com
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Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Best baby& toddler gear
HALO Bassinest
Easily moves to and from your bed
Price £199.99
T
he HALO Bassinest allows you to sleep close to baby as they sleep safely in their own separate space. It’s also convenient for Mum. Whereas most bedside cribs have to be fastened to the side of your bed, the Halo crib can easily be moved close to you, or moved away, to allow you access in and out of bed. The side can be lowered, so tending to baby from bed is easy, but then auto returns to ensure baby is always in their own safe environment. Height adjustable and with low profile feet, the Halo crib will sit up to most beds. The night light panel also gently plays three lullabies and three nature and womb sounds. Two levels of gentle vibration can be set. It also includes a nursing timer, ensuring you don’t fall asleep whilst feeding.
Reviewer’s thoughts I like the fact that the surround to this crib is mesh material, preventing baby from rolling over and hurting their head, arms or legs. I like it because the top of the crib moves to and from the bed, making it easy to reach baby. It is also easy to move in order to get out of bed - essential in the first few week’s after birth.
Height adjustable
SEE MORE AT www.halobassinest.com
Designed with Ease and Safety in mind
Safer for Baby. Easier for You.
The HALO™ Bassinest™ Swivel Sleeper is a safer alternative to bed sharing. Its unique design allows you to sleep as close to your baby as you want while still having them sleep safely in their own separate sleep space. The double swivel action gives easy access in and out of bed, particularly good for recovering C-Section mums.
O Swivel Action O Press Down Side O Soft Mesh Sides O Handy Pockets O Soothing Centre O Adjustable Height O Free standing O No inconvenient straps For more information go to: www.halobassinest.uk
Best baby& toddler gear
Silver Cross PostureStart tureStart Cot Mattress Price £250
ural Su perior post le ttoo versib re d an t or su pp ld ur chhiild grow with yo
Reviewer’s thoughts The mattress feels and looks very luxurious. My baby did not sweat or feel hot when using the mattress. One word...fabulous!
P
ostureStart range has been expertly created to see your baby through their crucial development stages, ensuring correct postural support. PostureStart cot mattresses feature the smallest pocket springs in the world, designed especially for babies. They provide targeted support and will actively respond to your child’s changing shape. The mattress has a 100% waterproof inner, a washable (at 60°) outer cover that incorporates a natural moisture and temperature management system and a 3D spacer layer to promote airflow and breathability, ensuring a clean, fresh and quick drying environment for your baby. The Double Comfort reversible design provides a firmer sleep side for infants aged 0-18 months, while the softer sleep side offers the correct level of support and comfort from 18 months and above. ll enic, hypoallerg washable cover
SEE MORE AT www.silvercrossbaby.com
Pure Zees Asthma & Allergy Friendly Cot Bed d Mattress Price £139
P
ure Zee’s Cot Bed Baby Mattress is the world’s first asthma & allergy friendly certified baby mattress. While many mattresses make unsubstantiated claims regarding asthma and allergies on their packaging, Pure Zees have tested and proven their claims via the Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America. 72% contained one or more chemicals that have been linked to health risks. Pure Zees aim was to develop a better mattress for a healthier sleep environment for your baby. Using the most advanced mattress components proven to have no harmful chemicals, they also succeeded in producing a mattress that doesn’t require the addition of fire retardant chemicals, as well as having a dustmite impermeable cover that avoids the need for anti-dustmite chemicals.
Reviewer’s thoughts Love the Pure Zees mattress. My baby seemed so comfortable on it and it’s asthma and allergy friendly. What more could you want?
W pe down encasem Wi ent cover v acts as a ba rri er to uurine and vomit maki king this mattress reusable
Asthm and allergy friendy Asthma certified mattress cer
SEE MORE AT www.purezees.com
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Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Best baby& toddler gear
Clair de Lune Noah Pod
Dressings made in the UK
Reviewer’s thoughts One of the best moses baskets I’ve used. I loved the curvy shape and large depth which blocks out just enough light to not disturb your little one.
Price £109
T
he beautiful Noah Pod creates a safe and cosy place for your baby to sleep. Made in the UK, it is dressed beautifully with Cotton Candy fabric which features delicately embroidered hearts and circles. It is available in a choice of pink, blue or ivory fabrics on white, grey, natural or dark wicker pod baskets. The Noah Pod features two handles, for ease of carrying, padded liner and mattress.
Complete with C ed liner and p pa pad padd mattress
SEE MORE AT www.clair -de- lune.co.uk
Silver Cross Notting Hill Price from £350
B
old yet sophisticated styling, Notting g Hill is the ultimate contemporary furniture collection. Finished in a premium high gloss white with brushed steel handles, it’s effortlessly stylish h and built to last. Featuring soft close doors and drawers as standard, it also has lots of storage space. The cot bed has three bed base positions and then transforms into a toddler bed, growing with your child. There’ss also a cleverly designed space saver single wardrobe, perfect when space is at a premium. um. Featuring double drawers, a shelf and hanging ing rail, there’s plenty of room for those baby essentials. The changing unit and dresser is designed for convenience, with three deep drawers providing ample storage space and d an integrated changer top.
Reviewer’s thoughts Silver Cross Notting Hill Furniture is beautifully made, gorgeous to look at and assembled by the delivery men when it arrives - perfection!
Integrated changing un it
Soft close drawers
old and Bold soph isticated styling
SEE MORE AT www.silvercrossbaby.com Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
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Best baby& toddler gear
BabyStyle Bordeaux
timeless Classic,, tim g nss esign desig des
Price £899
Reviewer’s thoughts The BabyStyle Bordeaux furniture looks great and has the quality to match. I loved the shelf and the size of the wardrobe.
T
he stunning Bordeaux nursery room set will give your nursery a modern and stylish look with its natural wood finish and clean lines. Comprising a double wardrobe, cot bed, 3 drawer dresser and a bookcase style shelf unit, the Bordeaux has a host of features built in. The robust cot bed has a 3 position base and teething rails and can be converted to a junior bed. The wardrobe has soft close doors and an integral drawer unit, and the dresser can be used as a changer with the addition of the detachable changer top.
Natural woo
d fin ish
SEE MORE AT www.babystyle.co.uk
Stokke Home Price from £606
irth to from b Su itab le a rs old! five ye
Reviewer’s thoughts I love the Stokke Home Nursery Set. It is easy to assemble, great quality and looks stunning. The ‘tent’ for the cot is especially cute, a real stand-out piece for a nursery.
(For frame and mattress)
S
tokke Home is the little nursery with big possibilities. Stokke Home defines any nursery with its stunning modular design. Suitable from birth through to five years, it evolves and grows as your child does –from a cot to a bed, to a den for your little one. Wanting it to ‘feel like home’, Stokke created Home to offer your child a place to relax, play and feel safe. These positive associations resulted in the global icon that symbolises a home – the shape of a house! This is what you see alongside its sleek lines and premium craftsmanship. Create a stunning nursery with the cradle, cot, dresser and all the accessories.
Its modu lar system lets yo u choose what yo u wa nt, when yo u wa nt it
SEE MORE AT www.stokke.com
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Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Best baby& toddler gear
Lorena Canals Washable Rug
Reviewer’s thoughts This is a lovely rug, very soft and thick enough to use to cushion hard floors. It’s also a very good size, perfect for a larger nursery or play area.
Prices from £139
Machine washable at 30°
T
he Lorena Canals washable children’s rug adds a splash of colour, an ambience of warmth and a hint of practicality to any nursery. Whether you prefer neutral tones or eye catching statement pieces, this 100% cotton rug is perfect for bedrooms and playrooms. Being hand tinted using natural and nontoxic dyes, ensures each rug enjoys its own individuality. The soft, gentle feel offers a snuggly spot to pop your little one down for playtime without the need to worry about accidents. Any spills can simply be washed away on a gentle 30 degree cycle. Available in two sizes (120cm x 160cm and 140cm x 200cm), prices start at £139. And that’s not all, when you buy a Lorena Canals rug you’ll be helping a child in India to go to school, giving the gift of opportunity. Hand tinted using natural & non-toxic dyes, so safe for tummy time
SEE MORE AT www.urbanmummy.co.uk
Aldi Mamia Sensitive Baby Wipes
Dermatolog ically tested
Price £0.59
A
ldi’s Mamia Sensitive Baby Wipes are carefully created to ensure your ur little one’s skin is left soft and smooth. ive skin, the Suitable for sensitive wipes are dermatologically tested ted and contain natural aloe vera and chamomile ile to help keep baby’s skin soft and smooth. th. An important addition to yourr changing bag, the Mamia Sensitive Baby Wipes are less than 1p per wipe!
SEE MORE AT www.aldi.co.uk Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Less than 1p per wipe
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Reviewer’s thoughts The Aldi Mamia Sensitive Baby Wip Wipes performed very well.l. They are thick and ong and didn’t rip or tear when used. us strong
Nursing Glider Chairs
Come & visit us at
www.kubnursery.com customercare@kubproducts.com
@ KUBsleepwell
0208 207 3377
/kubnursery
www.kubnursery.com
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Best baby& toddler gear
Aldi Mamia Fragranced Baby Wipes Price £0.59
Reviewer’s thoughts
Dermatologically testeedd
I would highly recommend these wipes to anybody who is a parent-to-be. They make cleaning easy, hassle-free and leave baby’s skin fresh and blemish free.
T
he perfect companion whilst on the go, Aldi’s hypoallergenic Mamia Fragranced Baby Wipes contain a dermatologically tested lotion with natural aloe vera and chamomile to help keep baby’s skin soft and smooth. The popup lid makes it easy to remove the right quantity and ensures that the wipes remain moist and fresh during changing, feeding or play time. At less than 1p a wipe, you can keep baby clean without breaking the bank!
Less than 1p per wipe!
SEE MORE AT www.aldi.co.uk
Aldi Mamia Toddler Training Toilet Wipes
Sensitive to baby’s skin
Price £0.59
T
he perfect companion for potty trainers, Aldi’s Mamia Toddler Training Toilet Wipes are ultra soft, hygienic and 100% flushable. You can choose from sensitive or normal (fruity fragrance). The Toddler Training Wipes are also dermatologically tested to ensure that they’re kind to baby’s skin. Biodeggra radab le
SEE MORE AT www.aldi.co.uk Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Page 42
Reviewer’s thoughts Their size is an advantage for a learning ‘toileteer’ and what is useful about them is that they can be flushed.
Best baby& toddler gear
Bambo Nature Baby Wipes
Reviewer’s thoughts
Price £2.00
e per pack. wippes 80 wipes
Out of all the wipes I have tried before, Bambo Nature are the best. They are good for the environment as they biodegrade. My daughter has not suffered from rashes since using them.
B
ambo Nature Fragrance Free Baby Wipes have been dermatologically tested to ensure the product does not cause skin irritation or allergy. This, combined with the strict criteria they have to adhere to, in order to be awarded the AsthmaAllergy Denmark certification, means that Bambo understand babies’ delicate skin. This is why Bambo Nature Fragrance Free Baby Wipes are proven to be gentle on even a new born baby’s skin. There are no parabens nor perfume within the ingredients, so from day one, parents can be reassured that Bambo Nature Baby Wipes are great for maintaining the skin’s natural balance.
SEE MORE AT www.bambo -nature.co.uk
Aldi Mamia Newborn Nappies Price £1.49
Dermatolog ically tested
Wetness indicator
Reviewer’s thoughts We were really impressed with Aldi’s Mamia Newborn Nappies. They are soft and stretchy around the leg cuffs, but without compromising on protection. Great all round nappy and fantastic value.
A
ldi’s Mamia Newborn Nappies, available in two sizes, provide babies with a comfortable and secure fit. The award-winning nappies have a special wetness indicator which helps parents keep track of wet nappies by changing colour when wet. Mamia Newborn Nappies are also dermatologically tested, hypoallergenic and breathable to give your baby all of the comfort they need. The super absorbent core and stretchy leg cuffs provide extra protection against leaks and help to keep baby’s skin dry inbetween changes. With elastic sides, your little one can wriggle around without you having to worry.
SEE MORE AT www.aldi.co.uk
Page 43
Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Best baby& toddler gear
Bambo Nature Nappies Price £5.55
R
esponsible parents want to find the best possible product for their child. This also means looking for a nappy that is gentle on your baby’s skin, while providing a perfect fit that is comfortable and increases the freedom of movement. Bambo Nature nappies are also high performance, with optimum leakage control and a super soft topdry layer which sits against your baby’s skin, ensuring they remain dry at all times. The added environmental benefits of Bambo Nature nappies will also give you peace of mind. Bambo Nature nappies are available in 7 sizes from premature right up until your child is potty trained.
Reviewer’s thoughts A supersoft top dry layer is st nst comfortab le again your child’s skin
I love everything about them! I love, love, love the fit of these super soft nappies on my daughter’s bum!
thab le The fu lly brea sheet ck textile ba ch ild’s skin ur yo s w lo al to breathe
SEE MORE AT www.bambo- nature.co.uk
Aldi Mamia Ultra ra Dry Nappies
Reviewer’s thoughts I would 100% recommend these to anyone wanting a secure, well produced nappy. It does what it says on the tin.
Price £3.99
A
ldi’s Mamia Ultra Dry Nappies are dermatologically tested, hypoallergenic and are available in sixx sizes: 3, 4, 4+, 5, 5+ and 6. With a super absorbent core and soft and stretchy leg cuffs, the Mamia Ultra Dry range provides extra protection against leaks. The soft top layer also provides extra comfort for your little one so they can crawl and play all day long. The Mamia Ultra Dry Nappies are also available in Jumbo Box variants for sizes 3, 4, 4+ and 5.
Super absorbent ab core c
Dermatolog ica lly tested
SEE MORE AT www.aldi.co.uk Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Page 44
Best baby& toddler gear
Aldi Mamia Easy-Pants
Reviewer’s thoughts They are easy for my son to practice pulling up and down which is great. I really do like these pants, they performed excellently.
Price £2.99
A
ldi’s Mamia Easy-Pants, available in two sizes, have been tested against the leading brands to ensure that they offer your little one the best performance. With soft and stretchy leg cuffs for leak protection and an absorbent core, your toddler will be comfortable and dry, day and night. The tear away sides offer a flexible and secure fit, allowing your active toddler to move around freely. The Mamia Easy-Pants are dermatologically tested, hypoallergenic and help to build your child’s confidence when moving onto the next stage from nappies.
Leg cuffs for leak protection pr
Dermatologically d t teste
SEE MORE AT www.aldi.co.uk
Aldi Mamia Swim Pants
Reviewer’s thoughts The Aldi Mamia Swim Nappies are by far the best nappies we have tried. The fit was very comfortable for my baby.
Price £2.49
P
erfect for summer swimming, the Mamia Swim Pants are available in small, medium and large. The lightweight Swim Pants have a fun sealife design and are soft and comfortable to ensure that your child has an enjoyable and fun time in the swimming pool. With optimum leak protection, your little one can learn to swim without you having to worry.
Optimum leak protection otectio tio
Fu n sea ea alililif life ife f design gn
SEE MORE AT www.aldi.co.uk
Page 45
Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Best baby& toddler gear
Close Pop-in Newborn Nappy
Reviewer’s thoughts The nappies washed really well with no visible wear to either the soakers or shells. The pastel colours are lovely.
Price £39.99 (Newborn pack)
A
n affordable way to bridge the gap between tiny baby and birth to potty sizing, the Pop-in Newborn Nappy is tailored to be used on a tiny/prem baby from birth. The front section is contoured and the nappy is much slimmer for the lower wetting, high frequency changing those first few weeks bring. The outer wrap can be wiped clean and re-used if not soiled, so you can just switch the soaker over at change time...easy! The clever double sided design of the soaker means you can choose, 100% soya, known as vegetable cashmere or stay dry suede cloth against baby’s delicate skin.
A slimmer nappy for the lower wetting, high frequency changing of the first weeks
Conto u re d to fit b elow the u mb ili ca l use from cord for b ir prem/tin th with y bab ies
SEE MORE AT www.closeparent.com
Close Pop-in New Gen V2 Nappy
Sim ply pops togeth er for easy onestep na ppy cha ng ing like a disposable
Prices from £14.99
P
op-in’s are as comfortable on newborns as they are on little nippers, using a 4 stage multi-sizing system. Flushable liners make changing a doddle and the night time booster helps keep little one dry for up to 12 hours! Close’s unique 2 part design offers one step nappy changing with flexibility for faster drying and varying absorbency with a special absorbent panel for extra dryness between changes. Everything for day and night time is included in their full/part time packs, so no hidden costs. Plus, bamboo is a great choice for sensitive or allergy prone skin or those wanting an alternative to 100% man-made fibres.
Ba m boo
SEE MORE AT www.closeparent.com Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Reviewer’s thoughts
The quality and materials used feel lovely. A very good fit and offers protection from leaks. I love their striking and unusual patterns.
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insert
Best baby& toddler gear
Ubbi Diaper Pail Price £69.99
Reviewer’s thoughts
Available in 12 colou rs
I will definitely be recommending this to my mummy friends! Yes, it has the larger price tag but it looks good, holds a fair old amount before a bag change, does the job and doesn’t need the expensive refills that you can only buy in certain retailers. In the long run it will save you money.
F
orget the cost of expensive cartridges used in some nappy systems, the Ubbii Diaper Pail uses standard pedal bin liners which are both inexpensive and readily available. A baby will use hundreds of nappies before they are potty trained so the savings, using the Ubbi Pail compared to a cartridge system, will run to hundreds of pounds. s. Seals in the lid and base lock in the smell and the sliding lid avoids disturbing the air inside the pail when dropping in a used nappy. y. The sliding lid also locks to keep inquisitive hands out. Made from powder coated steel, the e Ubbi Pail will not cling on to smells. We know how a sandwich box clings onto the smell of its contents, just apply that thought to a plasticc bin! It can also be used for reusable nappies with the waterproof cloth liner (an additional extra).
Se in Seals S odours odo
SEE MORE AT www.ubbiworld.co.uk
Clair de Lune Cotton Candy Changing Mattress
Removab le mat for wash ing
Ca n also be used as a pla ayy mat
Reviewer’s thoughts This changing mat is fantastic and my son was really comfortable on it. I would definitely recommend it!
Price £35.99
T
he Cotton Candy changing mattress will look just gorgeous in any nursery. Made in the UK, it is padded for super comfort and comes with a removable towelling mat so it can be washed. Very versatile and looking so lovely, this changing mattress can also be used as a play mat. It is available in blue, ivory and pink and is machine washable. The Clair de Lune Cotton Candy Changing Mattress has been designed to fit most changers (55 x 85cm)
SEE MORE AT www.clair-de -lune.co.uk
Page 47
Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Best baby& toddler gear
Lansinoh 2 in 1 Double Electric Breast Pump Price £149.99
T
he Lansinoh 2 in 1 Electric Breast Pump can be used as a single or double pump, by electric mains or with batteries letting you express wherever you need to. The breast pump has two phases which simulate your baby’s natural suction pattern. The first phase, ‘let down’ delivers rapid suction that initiates milk flow, while the ‘expression’ phase delivers slower and deeper suction. Tailor the pumping style to suit your own needs with three different styles to choose from in the ‘expression’ phase. A key feature is the special closed system which prevents breastmilk from entering the tubing and optimises suction levels. Also included is a Lansinoh mOmma bottle which has a NaturalWave teat that is clinically proven to help maintain established breastfeeding patterns.
SEE MORE AT www.lansinoh.co.uk
as a Can be used ub le sing le or a do breast pu m p
Mu ltiple pu mp ing sty les and suction levels that ca n be tailored to maxim ise breastm ilk and comfort
Medela Swing Maxi Breast Pump
Two pu mps helps to sustain mu m’s milk supply
Price £239.99
M
edela’s multi award-winning Swing Maxi is an excellent value double electric breast pump ideal for regular use. Double pumping, rather than pumping from one breast at a time, helps to increase and sustain milk supply, producing an average of 18% more milk. The Swing Maxi double breast pump provides fantastic, efficient support with maximum comfort and with Medela’s 2Phase Expression Technology, mums can express in the same way that baby feeds. With a range of vacuum levels and settings, the Swing Maxi gives mums optimal comfort by enabling them to adapt the breast pump to suit their needs. The pump can be used with a mains adaptor or with batteries. Compact, light, BPA-free and easy to clean the Medela Swing Maxi is convenient and ideal for helping mothers to express both quickly and efficiently.
Reviewer’s thoughts It’s well packaged and looks impressive. The ability to use the pump as a double or single is a bonus and the stopper is well designed to do this.
Medela’s 2Phase Expression Technology enables mums to hno express iin the same way that baby ba feeds
SEE MORE AT www.medela.com Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Reviewer’s thoughts I found it quite adaptable as there are 3 styles as well as adjustable suction. When in full use, it’s still fairly quiet so can be used discreetly.
Page 48
Best baby& toddler gear
Graco Snugfix
Reviewer’s thoughts
Price £129.99
The SnugFix hood offers a good amount of coverage and uses a toggle attached to the handle to keep it up. The SnugFix ISOfix base is really simple to fit in the car.
T
he Graco Snugfix baby car seat is suitable from birth and is always used in a rearward facing position when travelling. The car seat can be installed in your vehicle using either the car’s seatbelt, or for extra peace of mind and convenience it can be attached to the Graco Snugfix ISOfix base (sold separately). The Snugfix has been designed with maximum side impact protection to the head area to help keep baby safe, and features a padded newborn insert to provide extra comfort for young babies when travelling. This car seat is ultra lightweight making it easy to carry when moving your little one out of the car. The seat has a five point safety harness to keep your little one safe and secure, the harness is fully adjustable to ensure safety and comfort as your baby grows.
Easy to insta ll
SEE MORE AT www.graco.co.uk
BeSafe iZi GO Baby seat & ISOfix Base Price £169/£129
T
he iZi GO is the latest, high spec infant carrier from BeSafe. Taking their inspiration from nature in it’s innovative egg shape, the iZi GO is packed full of features to make your baby safe and life easier. The advanced 5-point safety harness has wider straps as well as ‘tidy’ magnets that keep the harness held open while you seat baby. Simple and strong, it’s also light, so easy to lift in and out of the car. It is luxuriously padded with a double cushion insert that grows with your child. It can be fitted with either the car’s own seat belt through the extra-grip belt guide, or with the ISOfix base. The ISOfix base is easy to fit, with everything controlled by a single central ‘paddle’. There’s even rotating ISOfix arms to ensure a flatter fit on the vehicle seat.
Reviewer’s thoughts Our little one settled down straight away when she was put in this car seat. The simple magnets are a fantastic feature, holding the belts out of the way while getting baby in and out. Overall, an excellent seat.
Simple magnets hold the belts open for easy access
Wide 5 po int ha rne ss keeps baby more secure
SEE MORE AT www.carseat.co.uk
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Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Best baby& toddler gear
Kiddy EvoLunafix Price £319.99 (ISOfix 2 Base included)
T
he Kiddy EvoLunafix is a rearward facing 0+ infant carrier with both upright and ergonomic lie flat positions. This promotes maximum health and safety for a young baby. Infants sleep comfortably laid flat, whilst the parent drives with peace of mind. The EvoLunafix seat gently cradles the baby, providing them with ideal postural support for small bones and their sensitive spine and encourages optimum blood saturation levels. The EvoLunafix provides this healthy support for babies from birth to 13kgs when used with the Kiddy ISOfix 2 base (included). This lie flat Group 0+ seat is approved by paediatricians, midwives and the independent German back health association “AGR”. This infant carrier forms a travel system with the addition of car seat adaptors. Kiddy and The Lullaby Trust are working together to highlight the importance of lying babies flat whilst sleeping.
Lie flat travelling and sleeping position for optimum breathing, oxygenation and postural support
Reviewer’s thoughts The lie flat technology is a fantastic feature, the harness is easy to adjust and the hood is a good length.
2 included ISOfix Base lu nafix to with the Evo re fit into cu se a re su en the ca r
SEE MORE AT www.kiddyuk.com
Silver Cross Simplicity Car Seat Price £135 (Care seat) (Simplifix ISOfix Base £130)
T
he award-winning Simplicity is a breeze to install, using either a seatbelt or the specially designed Simplifix ISOfix base. The Simplicity car seat is group 0+ rated, meaning it is suitable from birth to 13kg. It features a secure 5-point safety harness which can be adjusted with one hand whilst baby is in the seat. Offering optimum side impact protection with a self-adjusting head support, it comes with a padded cover and sun hood. The Simplifix ISOfix base is installed with a simple oneclick attachment and houses four indicators that show green when the car seat is correctly installed, guaranteeing a safe and secure fit. For extra safety, there’s an easily adjusted leg with a green indicator to show contact with the floor. Simplicity is compatible with all Silver Cross combination prams, and the Reflex pushchair.
Adjusta b le hea d su pport
Removab le fabrics
SEE MORE AT www.silvercrossbaby.com Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Reviewer’s thoughts The seat is lightweight and lifts into and out of the car with ease. My baby was comfortable enough to fall asleep within minutes.
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Best baby& toddler gear
Concord Reverso iSize Car Seat Price £289.99
Reviewer’s thoughts My first reaction to this car seat was how lightweight the whole system was. It is nice that the car seat and ISOfix fittings are combined to be one unit - this made it quite compact.
T
he Concord Reverso impresses thanks to its broad range of applications. Thanks to the separately cushioned newborn inlay, the seat is a fully fledged cradle for ages up to five months. Thereafter, without the inlay, it is suitable for children up to a height of 105 cm. In terms of handling, the CONCORD REVERSO is far ahead of other rearward facing seats. The convenient rotating wheels allow the leg supports and, in particular, the angle of sitting or lying to be adjusted. All the adjustments can be made from all sides and are marked with clear, mechanical red/green indicators, as is the ISOfix mounting. Its clear, tidy design is a visualisation of the new technology. A circular lightweight aluminium protection frame with an internal multifunctional shell, made entirely from shockabsorbing material, offers maximum protection with minimal weight, without the inlay it weighs in at under 10 kg (9.9 kg).
Fulfils the new European iSize and provides the highest standards ds oof safety with minimal weight
SEE MORE AT en.concord.es
BeSafe iZi Combi X4 Rear/Fwd Facing
Reviewer’s thoughts Well manufactured and robust. My daughter seemed to really snuggle into the car seat, she looked exceptionally comfy and the fabric and finish of the seat was to a high quality.
Price £399
B
eSafe’s iZi Combi X4 is an ultra-safe car seat that can be fitted with the car’s own seat belt forward facing, or rearfacing with ISOfix, right up to 4 years. Constructed with a double-layer, side impact protection headrest and side wings, plus a removable cushion, it keeps your child safe, whatever their size. The 5-point harness has central and height adjustment, while magnetic connectors hold the harness open for easy access. The seat can also be reclined into 3 different sitting positions, while the extending ISOfix arms let you make the seat compact or give it more leg room. And, for convenience, the cover can be removed and washed using a 40°C wool programme.
Adjustable ISOfix allows a compact fit first then more leg room as needed
Sits higher in the ca r so the growing ch ild ca n see out well
SEE MORE AT www.carseat.co.uk
Page 51
Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
maxi-cosi
Families
Discover the
2wayFamily The best safety for children; i-Size (R129) certified and rear facing travel up to the age of 4
Pebble Plus
2wayPearl
Birth to approx. 12 months
Approx. 6 months to 4 years
Rearward facing
Rearward facing
Forward facing 15 months to approx. 4 years
2wayFix Base i-Size safety
Birth to approx. 4 years
Pebble Plus
2wayPearl
The 2wayFamily offers a complete i-Size solution from birth to 4 years and consists of the: 路 2wayFix Base 路 Pebble Plus baby car seat 路 2wayPearl toddler car seat The new Maxi-Cosi Pebble Plus is the first infant carrier complying with i-Size (R129).
Find out more at www.maxi-cosi.co.uk/2wayFamily
Best baby& toddler gear
Graco Affix Price £49.99
Reviewer’s thoughts
2 Suitable up to 12 years
The Graco Affix looks good, feels nice and is comfortable. It also has an added bonus of an integral cup holder. The seat is spacious giving children plenty of room to sit comfortably.
T
he Affix is a high back booster seat for four to twelve year olds, complete with side impact protection built into both the side wings and headrest to ensure your child’s safety. The headrest can be adjusted to your growing child and the ISOCATCH connectors are easily altered with one hand using the front tether. The seat boasts hide away tray storage and an integrated cup holder to ensure your ‘big kid’ is fully prepared for a road trip. This car seat has been engineered to give extra protection to your child’s lower back and hips, and has been crash tested to meet safety standards, giving you peace of mind on the road.
CATCH ISO CA t s cto ector connec
SEE MORE AT www.graco.co.uk
Graco Nautilus Elite
Reviewer’s thoughts
Price £149.99
The kids love it. It fits in to the car nicely and your children will love it as it has a cool pocket on one side and a cup holder on the other.
G
raco Nautilus highback booster seat adjusts easily as your little one grows due to its easily adjustable harness. It’s easy to use, flexible and practical, with plenty of safety features. Babies from nine months are secured in the seat using the integral harness and continue to use the seat with the harness until they reach four years old. The harness can then be removed and your child can be secured into the seat using just the adult seatbelt. The booster seat has built in flexibility with five height adjustments so it can be altered as they grow. It also includes safety features such as reinforced side impact protection, as well as easy-to-access recline handle and a machine washable cover.
easy to install and adjust
easy access for little one
SEE MORE AT www.graco.co.uk Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
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Best baby& toddler gear
Clair de Lune Oxford Changing Bag Price £44.99
lo urs Cho ice of co co-ordinate available to roller with yo ur st
Reviewer’s thoughts I really liked this bag, it has lots of different pockets, both inside and out, which are generous sizes. These were really useful and made it easy to find things quickly in the bag.
T
he Oxford is a very stylish and practical changing bag. The bag comes complete with a key clip, wet bag, changing mattress and several internal pockets. There is a large pocket to the front outer and an insulated side pocket for bottles and drinks. The lining is a beautiful floral pattern and wipe clean. It has a large adjustable strap to wear over the shoulder or across the body. Available in black, plum, sand, slate or red.
Com plete with cha ng in g mat a n d wet bag
SEE MORE AT www.clair -de -lune.co.uk
OiOi Indigo Blue Faux Lizard Carry All
Reviewer’s thoughts It’s lovely and lightweight! The material is extremely soft. The bag comes with various items such as wipe holder, soft changing mat, bottle warmer and stroller straps.
Price £110
I
ndigo blue joins the soft lizard carry all collection to spice up the colour range of OiOi this season. The very popular Carry All design has two separate zip compartments, as well as multiple pockets internally and externally for organised storage. Standard accessories include, padded changing mat, insulated bottle holder, wet purse and wipes case. The bag also comes with extendable shoulder strap, and stroller straps to use when out and about. Style is mixed with function to make this bag an ideal selection for baby years and beyond.
Mu ltiple zip com pa rt me orga n ise nts for d storag e
Soft faux liza rd S
SEE MORE AT
leather
www.oioibaby.co.uk Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Page 54
Organix Baby Food Range
Reviewer’s thoughts
Prices from £0.75
F
or little ones at the start of their weaning journey, Organix helps with a variety of simple and natural first tastes to more challenging textures for baby to get to grips with as they move on. Cereal – A variety of tasty cereals bursting with flavour from real fruit and grains. With a range of textures and tastes for every step of your little one’s journey. Fruit Pots – Made with 100% organic fruit
and each little pot is one of a child’s 5 a day. Baby Corn Puffs –A variety of simple shapes and tasty savoury flavours, great for helping little ones enjoy learning about food. Rice Cakes – Firm enough to hold, but gentle on delicate gums, all we add is the juice from fruit to every one. Baby Biscuits – With a fun ring shape that’s easy for baby to grab hold of and not so easy to drop.
A go-to brand in our household! They’re a great size for small hands to hold, encouraging babies to feed themselves.
All made with real ingredients
All come with the No Ju nk promise, all organ ic and nothing unnecessa ry added
SEE MORE AT www.organix.com
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Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Best baby& toddler gear
Aldi Mamia 100% Organic Food Range Prices from £0.59
Reviewer’s thoughts These are cost-effective and a delicious introduction to weaning. There are no lumps and I was very impressed with the quality and the packaging.
A
ldi’s Mamia 100% Organic Food Range is perfect for babies and toddlers from four months old. The smooth, pureed fruit is available in four flavours: strawberries and apples, apples and bananas, apples, carrots and parsnips and just apples. With no lumps, no added sugar and a resealable pouch to maintain freshness and prevent spillage, the range is perfect for picnics and days out. The 100% Organic Food Range includes the Junior’s Mini Rice Cakes, available in Raspberry and Apple flavours. 100% Wholegrain and added vitamin B1, Junior’s Mini Rice Cakes have no added salt or sugar. Choose the Mamia Apple & Pear Fruit Pots, which contain 100% fruit, and Mamia Apple and Blackcurrant Baby Juice, containing no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives.
dded No a a r su g
SEE MORE AT
100% orga nic
www.aldi.co.uk
Organix Goodies Toddler Range
Reviewer’s thoughts Absolutely fantastic! There is a great mix of sweet and savoury flavours, which is just what you want when introducing new foods to your toddler.
Prices from £1.99
W
hen Organix make their foods, they think about your little one growing up to be a healthy, independent food explorer, and what they will need every step of the way to learn about good food and enjoy each new food adventure. All their foods come with the Organix no
SEE MORE AT www.organix.com Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
junk promise, a stamp of reassurance that their foods are always organic and are made with nothing unnecessary. Soft Oaty Bars – Tasty soft oaty bars are packed full of juicy raisins, wholegrain oats and the flavour from real fruit. Corn Puffs – Delicious puffs that are baked, not fried, so they’re tasty, light and crispy.
Va riety of fu s h a p es a n nd exciting flavo to discov u rss er!
Page 56
Biscuits and Crackers – From giant gingerbread men sweetened with fruit juice, to crunchy crackers for little ones who love something more savoury. Fruit Snacks – From mini boxes of delicious raisins to chunky fruit bars made from 100% organic fruit and shaped into bite sized chunks.
Great e for all occasions!
Best baby& toddler gear
Kiddylicious Prices from £0.55
R
egular, planned snacks are important to keep busy toddlers topped up between meals. Kiddylicious snacks are specially designed for babies and toddlers, handily packed in single portion bags, perfect for popping into your bag when you’re out and about. The Kiddylicious range is a choice of natural, healthy fruit and vegetable snacks with no nasties that mums love to give, and little ones love to eat. An easy way to one of your 5 a day.
They taste so good that grow ntoo! m too ups love them
Reviewer’s thoughts 1 of their 5 a day! These items now have a firm spot on my shopping list and are firm favourites in our house.
Available from all major supermarkets
SEE MORE AT www.kiddylicious.co.uk
Smallprint High Fives Pendant
Reviewer’s thoughts Beautiful and special! This necklace is very special to me as it’s captured my little boy’s footprint with his name and how old he was when we took the prints.
Price £90
P
erfect miniature prints of their chubby little hands and feet look great on Smallprint’s range of silver jewellery. Treasure those first steps, or daddy’s first high five with a silver keepsake capturing their hand and footprints forever. Their easyto-use and mess-free “Magic Inkless Print Kit” allows them to capture your child’s hand or foot print, ensuring that your handcrafted silver pendant will be exclusive to you in every way. What’s more, your child’s unique hand or footprint can be showcased on a choice of necklace from our beautiful sterling silver designs. Smallprint even make your silver pendants with a hand or footprint on each side. The perfect, original gift! Yo ur ch ild’s na me on one side, a memorab le date on the other
Your child’s actual hand or foot print, a unique treasure!
SEE MORE AT www.smallprint.com
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Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Best baby& toddler gear
Pogu High Visabilty Reflectors
Reviewer’s thoughts I think these reflectors are a brilliant product. I was expecting a plastic bike wheel type reflector so was surprised to find out that they were stickers. They will keep me and baby safe when out and about during the winter nights.
Price £7.99
S
tay safe and be seen on dark mornings and evenings with these high performance reflectors. Discreet in daytime, matching black or silver chassis, these reflectors make you and your baby 100 times more visible than nonreflective materials in low light conditions. They reflect back bright white. Using the same 3M material as used by emergency service vehicles, the reflectors perform in both wet or dry conditions. The self-adhesive pre- cut shapes are weather proof and can easily be removed by heating them with a hair dryer.
360-de g re reflectiv e ity
Visib le over 200m
SEE MORE AT www.poguinfant.co.uk
nelsons spatone Apple
Reviewer’s thoughts I find the sachets so easy to take as they are ready to drink. I really enjoy taking the sachets compared to pill supplements.
Price £10.55
S
patone contains iron rich water sourced from the Welsh mountains of Snowdonia National Park – which has been scientifically proven to help top up your iron levels whilst causing fewer of the unpleasant side effects often experienced with conventional iron food supplements. Generally, iron is a difficult mineral for the body to absorb however, the iron naturally present in spatone has been shown to be easily absorbed, with an average of 40% bioavailability, compared to 20% from food and other iron supplements. The additional Vitamin C in spatone Apple can help increase iron absorption to help ensure sufficient dietary intake of iron for active people. It is important to follow a varied and balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a healthy balanced diet.
Gentle on the stoma ch
28 rea d y driink sa to chets
SEE MORE AT www.spatone.co.uk Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Page 58
Best baby& toddler gear
Original U-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow
Specially desig ned to provide pport, including allround body supp ck and llegg support crucial bump, back
Price £27.50
Reviewer’s thoughts I LOVE using this U-Shaped Pillow! I use it in-between my knees and as a back support at the same time as I sleep on my side and feel much more secure nestled like this.
Y
ou deserve a good night’s sleep. With support in all the right places, the Original U-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow will relieve the aches and pains associated with a new mum’s journey through pregnancy, including sciatica, restless leg syndrome, lower back pain, and symphysis pubis dysfunction. The ultracosy design relieves pressure, alleviates aches & pains and helps you sleep comfortably on your side, just as the doctor ordered. You’re sleeping for two now. Sleep is important, so you feel rejuvenated. Quality sleep during pregnancy has also been linked to better immune function, decreased inflammation, easier labour and delivery, decreased necessity for caesarean sections, improved nutrient flow to the baby, uterus, and kidneys and decreased postpartum depression.
Helping mums get a good night’s sleep, at n a time when they need it most
SEE MORE AT www.pregnancypillows.net
Geuther Swing High Chair Price £175
W
ith an inventively modern style the Geuther Swing looks great in any household. Suitable from 6 months, the cleverly curved design provides a stable chair that remains solid without taking up too much space in your room. Comfortable and tippingsafe, the Swing is fundamentally designed to stay firmly anchored no matter how much your little person squirms. The Swing truly grows with your child and can be easily adjusted without tools. Both the adjustable seat and the footrest level can be simply changed to support your little one as they grow bigger.
Reviewer’s thoughts This is a fantastic chair. It takes up minimal floor space and is very sturdy.
Comfortab le and tipping safe, stays firmly an a chored
The Swing can be eeasily adjusted without tools w
SEE MORE AT www.geuther- blog.co.uk
Page 59
Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Best baby& toddler gear
Motorola MBP161 Timer Digital Audio Baby Monitor
Reviewer’s thoughts I would recommend this monitor for its simplicity and ease of use. It does what it says on the tin!
Price £49.99 3 Activ ity timers for; feeding, changing, and sleep
T
he Motorola MBP161 Timer Digital Audio Monitor uses DECT interference free technology offering a strong wireless connection. The MBP161 Timer has 3 activity timers preset so you can set a time when your little one needs their sleep, nappy changing or milk feeding and has an alarm to alert you. The two-way talk feature allows you to speak to your little one, and a high sensitivity microphone lets you hear every sound clearly. There is an integrated night light on the baby unit, with lullabies that help soothe your baby to sleep. Room temperature monitoring is displayed on the parent unit, using the integrated thermometer keeping you informed of the temperature in realtime. The long range of 300m means you can keep an eye on your baby.
Night lig ht su btle a m that a dds a b ience to yo u r baby’s ro om
SEE MORE AT www.amazon.co.uk
BT 350 Lightshow Baby Monitor
Reviewer’s thoughts I really liked this monitor from BT, another good product offering slightly more than just a standard sound monitor.
Price £69.99 Twinkly projected light sho how hhelps yo ur litt le one drift off
T
he BT 350 Lightshow plays 18 lullabies and has a starry light show and a room temperature light which allows you to see at a glance if the room is too hot or too cold. The lullabies include classical, nature sounds, womb sounds and white noise. The parent unit has a feed timer alert and also a torch to help with the night feeds. It also has BT’s famous HD sound technology that’s so sensitive you can even hear your baby breathing. In particular the light show helps babies get to sleep more quickly, which means parents get more sleep too!
SEE MORE AT www.shop.bt.com Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Page 60
Best baby& toddler gear
Motorola MBP853 Connect HD WiFi Video Baby Monitor Price £169.99
T
he award winning Motorola MBP853 Connect HD WiFi video baby monitor comes with a 3.5inch colour LCD parent unit offering a remote pan, tilt and digital zoom function that gives you a 300° view of your baby’s room. Use the Two Way Communication feature to speak to your baby and hear their replies, while the infrared night vision lets you check on your little one at night. There are integrated lullabies to help soothe baby, and an integrated thermometer lets you keep an eye on the room temperature. The dual connectivity lets you access your monitor via the parent unit as well as remote access via your iOS or Android smartphone or tablet via the Hubble for the Motorola Monitors app. Directly to your chosen devices, you’re able to receive motion, sound and temperature alerts whilst capturing image and video snapshots.
ur View on your lee bilile obil tablet or mobi
Reviewer’s thoughts The biggest selling point is the remote app for smartphones or tablets. It allows all the functionality of the monitor plus it gives alerts when sound or motion is sensed.
Access the baby monitor from your smartphone or tablet for free unlimited live stream.
SEE MORE AT www.amazon.co.uk
BT 7500 Lightshow Video Baby Monitor Price £179.99
T
he BT 7500 Lightshow is the best of the best in baby monitors. No other monitor combines such a great range of features including 3.5 inch touchscreen, projected lightshow and electronic pan, tilt and zoom. In addition to being a great monitor, the 7500 Lightshow is a total sleep solution. 19 lullabies including white noise, nature and womb sounds help your baby drift off to sleep. The night light and temperature sensor help you keep the nursery just right.
Reviewer’s thoughts Rotates too ensure ens a good view w of yo yyour ur baby
I would recommend this product to friends and family due to its simplistic design and set up, its excellent performance, and also its price. In my opinion this monitor outperforms others of a higher price. This has been and is an excellent choice for a video baby monitor.
SEE MORE AT www.shop.bt.com
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Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Best baby& toddler gear
Snugglebundl Price £39.99
T
he Snugglebundl is a hammock shaped baby wrap with soft strong handles. It provides full head support which alleviates the concern about supporting a baby’s head when lifting, laying or passing them. It solves the age old problem of moving a sleeping baby without waking them. It allows babies to be put in a car seat and taken out without waking them and saves a parent’s back. The reduced stooping helps back pain after pregnancy and post birth recovery, especially after C-section. It’s a cost saving item because it works as an extra garment, play mat when open, car seat liner and even a breastfeeding cover. Plus it’ll save you a lot of chiropractic fees later on! It basically makes life healthier and easier for you and your baby.
Reviewer’s thoughts
yo ur baby Lift and lay mum my A . se ea with t-have us m by and ba
It’s a multi-purpose blanket which can be used in a wide range of ways. When you get one you instantly start to use the functions without even realising it.
SEE MORE AT www.snugglebundl.co.uk
Braun Thermoscan 7 ear thermometer with Age Precision Price £49.99
B
raun’s Thermoscan 7 ear thermometer (IRT6520) takes the guesswork out of monitoring a child’s temperature. The new Age Precision technology means that parents can set the age of their child (0-3 months, 3-36 months and 36 months to adult), and interpret the reading quickly and accurately based on their age. The simple colour coded display shows green for a normal temperature, yellow for an elevated temperature and red for a high temperature. With its ergonomic design and innovative features, the ear thermometer also features Braun’s patented prewarmed tip and ExacTemp guidance system. It comes with 21 disposable lens filters, allowing you to easily switch between users, and prevents cross contamination. Simply use the lens ejector to remove the filter and add a new one for each reading. Suitable from birth.
The pre-warmed tip ensures pa rents enjoy professiona l accu racy every tim e.
Easy to read
display
SEE MORE AT www.brauntherms.com Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Reviewer’s thoughts This thermometer takes all the worry out, displaying the information on a back-lit screen that can still be seen in a dark bedroom. I think that all family homes should have one!
Page 62
Best baby& toddler gear
Kozy Kartz Shopping Trolley Seat Cover Price £25
Trolleys are often wet, winter and can be cold in wi n summer very hot in
Reviewer’s thoughts It’s a great idea and protects your child from all the dirt and bacteria which shopping trolleys have.
T
he Kozy Kartz shopping trolley seat cover protects both you and your child from bacteria and other nasties lurking in trolleys and makes the seats more comfortable for your child. With its multi sensory dimples fabric, your child’s brain will be engaged. There are also 2 toy loops to attach a favourite toy or dummy, so you can have a peaceful shop. The waterproof backing also means no more wiping down wet seats or cleaning up after an embarrassing toilet training accident. The Kozy Kartz shopping trolley seat cover is also completely washable. a The Kozy Kartz trolley seat fe cover keeps your baby safe ke from dangerous bacteria like E.Coli
SEE MORE AT www.kozykartz.co.uk
Splash About Happy Nappy Wetsuit
Reviewer’s thoughts What can I say? I absolutely adored this product. It has everything you could want in a swim nappy and wetsuit! Style, durability and comfort.
Price £24.99
D
esigned in consultation with swim schools, the Happy Nappy Wetsuit is innovative and unique. It maintains a baby’s core body temperature keeping them warmer and happier in water. This is especially important as young babies, who aren’t as active in the water feel the cold much quicker – even in warm swimming pools. It incorporates a leak-proof swim nappy approved by over 90% of UK swim schools due to its effectiveness at preventing faecal leaks in the pool, meaning safe swimming for all. Made from supple stretchy neoprene, the wetsuit is suitable for newborn and sensitive skin, as it keeps barrier creams in place. It’s easy to put on/take off as the upper body unzips at the back. No need for disposable swim nappies, making it cost- effective and eco friendly – the perfect starter suit for baby swimming!
Neck, arm & th gh cuffs to keep thi wa rmth in and ch illy i water out!
Full Happy Fu Nappy swim N nappy inside!
SEE MORE AT www.splashabout.com
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Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Best baby& toddler gear
Graco Evo Avant
Reviewer’s thoughts The Graco Evo Avant does what it says on the tin. It is a cost effective option for many parents.
Price £299.99
T
he Graco Evo Avant is the complete pushchair package. The stylish pushchair is suitable from birth and converts to a fully reversible pushchair in a few simple clicks. Evo Avant is a lightweight and contemporary pushchair. Padded seats and a cocoon-like covered seat area create a comforting and inviting area to keep your little one snug and protected from the cold. The Graco Evo Avant is suitable from birth and features a three position recline from upright to full lie flat and boasts a fully reversible seat with adjustable calf support for your baby’s comfort. The convenient onehand fold makes this stroller the perfect travel companion to take on any journey and lends itself perfectly to busy parents on the go who want style, convenience and comfort in one.
Contem porary design
Ultra lightweight
SEE MORE AT www.graco.co.uk
Mamas & Papas Armadillo Flip
Reviewer’s thoughts The best thing about the Mamas & Papas Armadillo Flip is the size of the hood.... Wow, it is massive!! The other selling point is the one handed fold which is the most compact of all the pushchairs.
Price £399
T
he Armadillo Flip was designed from the wheels up to make life easier for parents. The reversible seat allows parents to easily flip their baby’s view from them to the world. The innovative patented design lets them fold it down one handed in seconds into a more compact fold – no matter which way the seat is facing and without the hassle of having to take it off. Combining more stretching room than any other rival and with the most compact ‘travel system ready’ design on the market, it’s the only stroller parents will ever need – from birth right through to early childhood. What’s more the XXXL hood made from UPF 50+ fabric is 19% larger than many other lightweight forward and rear facing strollers out there, providing brilliant weather protection.
XXXL hood offer ering yea r rou nd protection
Folds are oneha ndded ed in seconds
SEE MORE AT www.mamasandpapas.com Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
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Best baby& toddler gear
The iCandy Strawberry 2
The Strawberry 2 includes an impressive bundle which includes a chassis, a seat unit, carrycot fabrics, car seat adaptors and a universal raincover
Price £550
Reviewer’s thoughts It is beautiful to push, looks stunning and I’m impressed that the seat is suitable for children up to 25kg.
T
he fabulous Strawberry 2 boasts incredible functionality and oozes British style. Suitable from birth, the multi-functional system offers a state-of-the-art seat frame that can be used for both the seat unit and carrycot. By removing the carrycot base, the patented carrycot folds flat, making storage of the pushchair and accessories even easier. Suitable for overnight sleeping, the lie flat carrycot is positioned higher and closer to the parent to promote interaction in the early months. The award-winning Strawberry 2 continues to offer unique iCandy patents such as Memory auto alignment, which remembers the recline position, whilst the unique one-hand Step & Stand Fold system provides swift collapsing. Available in sleek matt black or chrome, it is available in six headturning flavours: Anthracite, Dune, Smoothie, Lush, Pacific and Prism.
The bu nd le also inc ludes a Flavo ur pa ck, wh ich conta ins an intercha ngeable hoood, ca rrycot apron, seat liner and ha h rrne n ss chest pa ds
SEE MORE AT www.icandyworld.com
BabyStyle Oyster 2
Reviewer’s thoughts The Babystyle Oyster 2 is both stylish and practical. The seat recline is easy to use and the lie flat position is great.
Price £299
T
he Oyster 2 is the latest version of the iconic original Oyster. Designed to be suitable for use from birth the Oyster 2 can be used as a complete travel system by adding an Oyster carrycot and an Oyster car seat. The Oyster 2 has a narrow width chassis which is lightweight and very compact when folded, fitting into even the smallest car boot. Independent cantilever suspension across all four wheels helps the Oyster 2 take kerbs, bumps and off road trips in its stride. Standard features include a large shopping basket, removable bumper bar, adjustable footrest, extendible hood and sun canopy with integral insect net and an adjustable handle. A range of co-ordinating accessories are available along with colour packs and colour pop liners to really personalise your pushchair.
The Oyster 2. Perfection, perfeccted
SEE MORE AT www.babystyle.co.uk
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Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Best baby& toddler gear
Cosatto Woop
Includes cosy footmuff, headhugger, chest & tummy pad, changing bag & mat and raincover over
Price £380
Reviewer’s thoughts The Cosatto Woop is the complete package with a seat unit that converts into a newborn cocoon, a changing bag and rain cover all included. It even gives you the option to buy a compatible car seat too!
T
ravel, faff-free, with the Cosatto Woop, the 2 in 1 travel system that allows you to switch seemlessly between pram, pushchair and car seat carrier. The intuitive unit adapts and grows on the go; from newborn recline mode, Woop glides into sit up mode in two simple clicks. The duodirectional unit allows your child to face you or the street. It’s also compatible with matching Hold 0+ car seat for easy pop on-and-off adventures. With 4 way reversible Cosy Toes for all weather, 4 position seat recline, chest pads, head hugger and tummy pad, Woop will keep your little one snug from day one. Not to forget the adjustable handle height, pop-off swivel wheels, all round suspension and compact folding to make your adventures smooth and easy.
2 in 1 wit h n e wbo rn recline p ra m a nd duodirection a l p us h c ha ir
SEE MORE AT www.cosatto.com
Silver Cross Pioneer
Reviewer’s thoughts The Pioneer has every function a parent could want. It feels really sturdy and strong when you pushing it off the beaten track.
Price £695 (Carrycot included)
D
esigned for life on the go, the Silver Cross Pioneer is big, bold, generous and robust. Suitable from birth to toddler, it includes a luxurious lieflat newborn carrycot as well as a pushchair seat. Incredibly easy to fold and a breeze to push, Pioneer is the perfect modern pram system. Use the carrycot as a lieflat pram or for overnight sleeping. Then, as your baby grows, switch to the multi-recline seat unit to use your Pioneer as a rearward or forwardfacing pushchair. Add a Simplicity car seat to create the complete travel system. The Pioneer is generously proportioned, with a large basket and chunky, hardwearing tyres, yet it’s conveniently light and folds to a compact size. The spacious seat unit is adjustable, keeping your baby comfortable and closer to you.
Mu lti-position rec lin ing and reversible pushchair seat. All-ini one compact fol d
Genero u shopp ing s b a nd ch u n asket ky, ha rd wea rring tyres
SEE MORE AT www.silvercrossbaby.com Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Page 66
Pushchair & Pram System
Now 2 into 1 does go!
The NEW UPPAbaby VISTA is ideal for both first time parents and growing families. It adapts to your family’s needs. Suitable for one, two or even three children and with new options for twins, it still manoeuvres like a single pushchair.
Category Luxury Pushchair
For more information:
Category Pushchair for Two
www.UPPAbaby.co.uk
facebook.com/UPPAbabyUK
@UPPAbaby_UK
Best baby& toddler gear
Mamas & Papas Armadillo Flip XT
Reviewer’s thoughts Great, vibrant colours, it’s lovely! The Flip XT is everything you would expect from Mamas & Papas, the basket is a good size, it is a smooth ride and a very compact fold. Very good!
Price £479 (Carrycot £149)
T
ravel system ready, the unbelievably compact Armadillo Flip XT is packed with loads of wriggle room for the years to come. The new chunky wheels have extra grip to ensure babies enjoy a smooth and comfy ride, even on difficult terrain. The telescopic handle makes steering comfortable for parents whatever their height. The Armadillo Flip XT is the only stroller parents will ever need and is packed with lots of stunning extras and design flourishes such as its easy fold technology. Carrycot and car seat compatible, it offers the most compact ‘travel system ready’ design on the market and is perfectly designed to help make life easier for parents. What’s more, the innovative patented design lets you fold it down with one hand in seconds – whichever way the seat is facing – into the most compact fold.
The on ly stroller pa rents w need – p ill ever a cke stu nn ing d with extr a nd easy as fold tech nolo gy
Chunky wheels for idee rride mo th rid moo mo a smoo
SEE MORE AT www.mamasandpapas.com
UPPAbaby Cruz Price £614.98 (Carrycot included)
Reviewer’s thoughts
We ighs on ly 9.8kg with the seat fitted
I absolutely love everything about this travel system! It is practical, stylish, and easy to use - what more could you want?!
T
he UPPAbaby Cruz is a lightweight travel system with all the features of a full size stroller. Fitted with the carrycot it’s suitable from birth but has the added convenience of being able to be used as a travel system with the BeSafe iZi Go infant carrier. Designed for urban use, the Cruz weighs only 9.8kg, is only 56cm wide and easily folds with the seat fitted. The seat can be fitted forward or rearward facing, with multiple recline positions in both, and is designed so it’s the perfect height to be pushed up to a table when out and about. It is supplied complete with raincovers, sun shades and insect nets for both the seat and carrycot. The carrycot raincover will also fit the infant carrier when used as a travel system. Car seat adaptors are included.
Cha assis on llyy 56cm wide
SEE MORE AT www.uppababy.co.uk Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
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Best baby& toddler gear
Silver Cross Surf 2
Reviewer’s thoughts This pushchair was very light and easy to manoeuvre with a good suspension.
Price £725 (Carrycot included)
T
he product Surf 2 provides the ultimate ride from birth to toddler, thanks to its revolutionary air sprung suspension. The luxurious lie-flat carrycot is included in the package, along with the fully reclining, reversible pushchair seat for older babies. Use the carrycot as a lie-flat pram or for overnight sleeping. Then, as your baby grows, switch to the seat unit and transform your Surf 2 into a rearward or forwardfacing pushchair. You can also clip on the Silver Cross Simplicity car seat to create a flexible travel system. With its groundbreaking suspension, extraordinarily light chassis and large foamfilled pneumatic tyres, Surf 2 provides outstanding multi-terrain handling. The incredibly compact fold, adjustable handlebars and a deep basket make it exceptionally practical. Plus, subtle leatherette and chrome detailing make it uniquely stylish.
Multi-position reclin ing and reversible seat unit
Large, L puncture-proof punctu ctur ct ctu tyres tyre
SEE MORE AT www.silvercrossbaby.com
Mamas & Papas Chestnut Tweed Urbo2 Price £539
Reviewer’s thoughts A lovely looking pushchair, I really liked the chrome sleek frame. The recline is very smooth, drivability good and handle height was also easy to set/change
B
uilt for city living, the Signature Edition Chestnut Tweed Urbo2 combines traditional British style and premium fabrics. The adjustable handle slides down allowing the compact frame to squeeze into the tightest spaces, while the ultracompact fold makes storage a doddle. Inspired by the latest catwalk trends, the Chestnut Tweed Urbo2 offers a timeless vintage look with its striking copper highlights and sophisticated detailing, including a brown leather look handle and unique debossed Signature Edition logo. The front and rear suspension gives babies a smooth ride in their reversible seat, while the insect net keeps unwanted visitors out. Additionally, the sun smart UPF 50+ ensures maximum UV protection and the adjustable air vent allows easy temperature control.
Comb ining tra dition al British style with premiu m fabric an d unrivalledd urban ag ility
SEE MORE AT www.mamasandpapas.com
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Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Best baby& toddler gear
UPPAbaby Vista
Reviewer’s thoughts
Price £699.99 (Carrycot included)
There is no denying that the UPPAbaby Vista is my all time favourite pushchair. It is so versatile and well-made. Its rugged wheels and great suspension mean that it gives a smooth ride off road as well as on the city streets. The substantial carrycot looks beautiful on the frame.
T
he Vista is a product that grows with your family; a pram with carrycot, stroller with seat unit or travel system with an infant carrier. When baby number two comes along, it’s easily converted to carry two or even three children with extra accessories. A truly versatile product. Supplied with raincovers, sunshades and insect nets for both the carrycot and seat unit, the carrycot raincover doubles up as your infant carrier cover in travel system mode. It is also supplied with adaptors for BeSafe or Maxi Cosi infant carriers. The carrycot is suitable for overnight sleeping and the seat unit can be rear or forward facing, with multiple recline positions. The seat unit is designed so that it’s just the right height to be pushed up to a table. The chassis folds easily, even with the seat unit fitted and free stands. The basket is enormous.
The Vista h easy fold as a n chassis a nd h uge basket
SEE MORE AT www.uppababy.co.uk
egg stroller Price £699 (Carrycot £179)
Reviewer’s thoughts Five pposition ha nd le height ad a jus j tment
Wow, I am totally in love with the egg stroller. It is very solid and definitely made to last. The seat can be used both world or parent facing.
T
he egg stroller has been designed in the UK with the style conscious parent in mind. Soft touch fabrics create smooth curves and continuous lines to give the egg a luxury, stylish look. The egg has been fitted with non puncture, TruRide Technology tyres which have been engineered for comfort, superior handling and added durability. The one hand fold chassis is compact and freestanding when folded. The three position recline, parent and forward facing seat unit is spacious and comfortable and is suitable for up to 25kg. The egg comes complete with chassis, seat unit, seat liner in your colour choice, seat unit apron, insect net and raincover. A lie-flat carrycot can be purchased as an optional extra and is suitable for occasional overnight sleeping.
Sppa accio iouus, ss, co c mfortab le seat un it suitab le for up to 25kg
SEE MORE AT www.eggstroller.com Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
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Best baby& toddler gear
The iCandy Peach
Reviewer’s thoughts
Price £755 (Carrycot £185)
iCandy are well known for their excellent quality and good looks. The Peach doesn’t disappoint!
T
he award-winning iCandy Peach is famous for its onehand fold and fashionforward colours. It is iCandy’s bestselling model and is the choice for various A-list celebrities. The Peach can upgrade into a double travel system to grow with your family with the use of innovative adapters. In just a few clicks the pushchair transforms into a double and back into a single pushchair when needed. Crafted with beautiful details and design, has a soft leatherette handle and bumper bar. iCandy have created unique elevators that allow the single seat or carrycot to be positioned higher and closer, providing further interaction between the parent and child. Available in 10 new colourways, with the chassis available in the high polished Chrome, a matt Black, or a new contemporary Space Grey.
Leatherette handle and bumper bar
A large hood wh ich offers excellent sun protection with a 50SPF rating
SEE MORE AT www.icandyworld.com
Graco Blox
Reviewer’s thoughts Super easy to fold and unfold. Well padded seat unit, nice colours and easy to clean. The basket is lovely and spacious, great for shopping and other essentials.
Price £199.99
G
raco Blox is a super lightweight full size stroller, which utilizes a one hand fold system and can be stored in the smallest of spaces. This extremely lightweight yet sturdy stroller is easy to use and includes all the features of a full sized model within a compact frame. It boasts a multi position recline seat, supportive calf rest and can be folded flat with just one hand. It comes with a footmuff and rain cover to protect your little one from the elements, and has an extra large shopping basket for your essentials. The apron keeps baby warm and snug, and the spacious shopping basket keeps mum’s hands free.
Less tha n £200 for th tthe full ackage
La rge shopp ing bbasket
SEE MORE AT www.graco.co.uk Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
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Best baby& toddler gear
Silver Cross Pop
Reviewer’s thoughts The fabrics are of great quality! The stroller is comfy for my child as the seat is well padded. A good quality stroller with all the features you would need
Price £160
T
he new, updated Pop pushchair is suitable from birth and jam-packed with smart features, like the fully extendable UPF 50+ hood for maximum sun protection, the full lie-flat seat recline and the adjustable calf support to keep little legs happy. As any parent will tell you, one pair of hands is never enough, so Pop can be lifted, opened, folded and reclined with just one hand. Suitable for toddlers up to 25kg, Pop has the widest seat in its class and a taller seat back ideal for growing boys and girls. The generous shopping basket provides plenty of storage and the ergonomic soft grip handles ensure a comfortable push. A great all-rounder, the new Pop is a dream to use. It’s the perfect combination of comfort for your child and practicality for parents.
Extendab le hood Ex
Widest seat in its W class with full lie-flat cla cl l recline
SEE MORE AT www.silvercrossbaby.com
Mamas & Papas Armadillo XT
Reviewer’s thoughts Love the style of the Armadillo XT. The seat is lovely and padded and will help keep little ones comfortable.
Price £299
T
he Armadillo XT is designed to make life more comfortable for babies and easier for parents. The lightweight and compact second stroller that offers lots of comfy features including an ultrapadded seat and extra stretching room. Weighing 9kg, the Armadillo XT also includes a temperature controlled air vent to keep your baby cool and a XXL hood with UPF 50+ for maximum protection whatever the weather. What’s more, there is a telescopic handle to suit all parents, whatever their height. Chunky wheels for navigating tricky terrain ensure easy transitioning from pavement to park, whilst at home everything folds away effortlessly with just one hand!
A lightweight and compact second str oller with lots of little ext ras for maximum comf ort
SEE MORE AT www.mamasandpapas.com
Page 73
Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Best baby& toddler gear
UPPAbaby G-Luxe
Reviewer’s thoughts
Price £194.99
The UPPAbaby G-Luxe was my favourite overall. It’s just packed full of style, has funky colour options and the material is super soft and Teflon coated. It’s nice and light and has a helpful shoulder strap to assist with carrying it around.
A
true lightweight stroller at only 6.8kg, the G-Luxe is a versatile stroller for travel or when you just want to be able to pick it up and carry it. It is suitable from 6 months, with an easily operated three position recline and adjustable footrest. It comes complete with built in sun shade, raincover and cup holder. All fabrics have a stain resistant coating and both the seat and seat pad can easily be removed for machine washing. It will free stand when folded which means it’s easy to pick up and carry with the shoulder strap without bending down and it is easy to store.
We ighs o n ly 6.8kg
Stain resistant fabrics
SEE MORE AT www.uppababy.co.uk
iCandy Raspberry
Reviewer’s thoughts The Raspberry is nice to use, the recline is really easy and I liked that it could be parent or world facing.
Price £460
W
eighing an astonishing 6.6KG, the Raspberry is one of the lightest luxury pushchairs on the market. The state-of-the-art, freestanding compact fold stroller is a quick and easy pushchair and the smart choice for urban adventures with your newborn – or toddler. The 3 position reclining seat adjusts to suit the mood of your infant or toddler. The stroller will fold with the seat unit in situ, or it can be removed to make storage of the Raspberry even more compact. The innovative tyres feature a 4 wheel independent suspension system, which ensures a smooth and seamless ride, no matter the surface or bumps in the road. The chassis comes in two colours, a sleek matt black or natural brushed aluminium with the iCandy logo laser etched into the frame. The Raspberry hood is available in 7 fresh striking colours.
which A la rge hood su n llent offers exce ith a protection w g tin ra F P S 50
La rg rge basket with s rage pod st sto
SEE MORE AT www.icandyworld.com Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
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Woop Travel System
Best baby& toddler gear
UPPAbaby Vista with Rumble Seat
Reviewer’s thoughts This is a great looking pushchair and can be used with 2 carrycots, 2 seats, one of each or car seats. The carrycots are beautiful - lots of room and with padded, soft mattresses. I loved the extendable sun visors on the seats and the carrycots that completely protect the child and keep them in the shade.
Price from £740
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he standard Vista easily adapts for twins or children of different ages with multiple options. These range from two car seats, two carrycots or two seat units and the ability to mix and match between all three to suit children of different ages. When using two seats, a Rumble Seat is added to the standard Vista package. The Rumble Seat comes complete with its own adaptors, sunshade, raincover and bumper bar. There are also a number of ways the two seats can be fitted; both rearward facing, both forward facing or one forward and the other rearward. Both seats will fully recline, although the recline can be a little limited in some combinations, so experiment to find the optimum position for your children. The chassis easily folds with both seats fitted forward facing and is compact and free standing easing the headache of storing a twin pram.
Bot seats can be Both faced forward or rearward
SEE MORE AT www.uppababy.co.uk
BabyStyle Oyster Max
Reviewer’s thoughts This is my dream pram. I loved the colour and that the top seat could face both ways. It was so easy to push.
Price from £468
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he Oyster Max ticks all the boxes when it comes to choosing the ideal pushchair for your family. Perfect as a single pushchair but offering the option to easily convert to a tandem, the Oyster Max is suitable for use from birth, is feature packed and will grow with your family. When in tandem mode it has no less than 25 combinations making it extremely flexible and perfect for either twins or siblings. Mix and match pushchair seats, carrycots and infant carriers, you can even add a buggy board. Colour packs and colour pop liners allow you to personalise your Oyster Max and a range of coordinating accessories help ensure that you get the pushchair you really want.
The Oyster Max every stroller yo u ever ne eded in one
SEE MORE AT www.babystyle.co.uk
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Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Best baby& toddler gear
BabyStyle Oyster Lite
Reviewer’s thoughts The Oyster Lite is a great lightweight stroller and the drivability is good and easy to manoeuvre.
Price £169
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he Oyster Lite has all of the Oyster pedigree and is feature packed but at the incredibly low price of just £169. Weighing in at under 7kg and suitable to be used from birth, the Oyster Lite can be easily turned into a travel system with the addition of an infant carrier easily fitted with adaptors. The large seat fully reclines and is suitable to be used right through until baby no longer needs a pushchair. The Oyster Lite comes complete with a large shopping basket, an extendible hood and lockable front swivel wheels. The Oyster Lite has a simple to operate centre fold mechanism which makes it compact and easy to store and transport. Co-ordinating accessories are available along with colour packs and colour pop liners to allow you to personalise your pushchair.
Spa cio u s seat
Weighs less than 7kg
SEE MORE AT www.babystyle.co.uk
Out ‘n’ About Nipper Double V4
Reviewer’s thoughts It’s really good, light to push and manoeuvre. You can get it up the kerbs easily and it fits through all the doors nicely.
Price £449.95
T
he award winning Nipper Double is an excellent solution for parents who require a multipurpose pushchair for two. With an extensive range of features including independent sun hoods and being carrycot compatible, it is the ideal choice for use with twins, or children of different weights and ages. The 360° swivel front wheel makes for effortless, one-handed manoeuvring. A smooth ride is assured for both parents and children. The Nipper Double’s multi-position reclining seats, with padded 5 point safety harnesses and soft liners allow for maximum comfort. Adjusting from lie-flat to upright, each seat unit will accommodate from newborn all the way up to 4 years old. At a slimline width of just 72cm and weighing only 12.8kg, it is ideal for easy handling and transport. With its compact fold design and quick release wheels, travelling with your buggy has never been easier.
SEE MORE AT www.outnabout.com Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Individua l retractab le sun ca nopies with p ekaboo windows pe
Lightweig ighhtt alu min ium fra me wi witthh w a compact fold
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Best baby& toddler gear
Graco Evo XT
Reviewer’s thoughts The Evo XT was a big surprise, it was great to push both on and off road, but the thing that grabbed me was the clever one hand fold.
Price £379.99
T
his stroller is ideal for exploring unknown territories, so if you are planning an active trip, this could be for you. Its long wheelbase gives added stability with larger wheels designed to take on most terrain. Durable fabric and finishes mean the Evo XT can withstand any weather conditions and it comes equipped with rain cover, snuggly footmuff and mosquito net for more exotic climbs. This stroller features a seat that can be both forward and rear facing and an adjustable calf support for your little one’s comfort. With a convenient one hand fold, it is the ideal choice for busy parents on the go.
Convenient onehand fold
Long wheelba se g ives a d ded stab ility
SEE MORE AT www.graco.co.uk
Stokke Trailz
Reviewer’s thoughts Big and beautiful to look at. The Trailz handles the rough stuff well with its air tyres smoothing out the bumps. I loved the huge carrycot too!
Price £939 (Carrycot £269)
T
railz is built for adventure. It takes you wherever you want to go, in all seasons and on all terrains. This versatile pushchair is perfect for families who like to go off the beaten track, enjoy exploring or love a big, luxurious pram. Superior manoeuvrability and effortless steering secures a smooth ride for your little one. Large air filled tyres, a spacious waterproof shopping basket and a sturdy rain cover make Stokke Trailz the perfect choice for families who love the outdoors, no matter the weather! Like all Stokke pushchairs, the carrycot and seat positions are high, this is to encourage the strongest connection between parent and child. You can use the Trailz chassis with a car seat, carrycot or seat unit, meaning it grows and develops with baby.
High ca rrycot and stroller sea s t position bring s yo ur baby closer to yo u
La rge air filled rub ber tyres and advanced suspension offers the smootthest ride
SEE MORE AT www.stokke.com Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
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Best baby& toddler gear
Mountain Buggy urban jungle the luxury collection Price £549(Carrycot £139)
R
edefining all terrain innovation with a Mountain Buggy classic, the urban jungle luxury collection is the epitome of premium quality, worldclass craftsmanship and fashion tailoring. Engineered for the urban active, urban jungle’s performance remains world class, with new features such as the one hand fast fold with automatic frame lock, a smaller compact stand fold size, newly convenient located handbrake and a refined aesthetic staying true to the simplicity of Mountain Buggy. It’s adaptability means it can take additional Mountain Buggy accessories like the carrycot plus, the world’s first carrycot that can transform from lie flat, to an inclined angle especially good for babies with reflux. The urban jungle luxury collection all come with matching satchel, change mat and bag clips.
A superior one hand fast fold with hidden automatic frame lock
Reviewer’s thoughts The urban jungle rides so well off road, your little one will never feel the bumps. The fold is great as well.
Conveniently located handbrake, with green ‘go’ and red ‘stop’ locators
SEE MORE AT www.mountainbuggy.com
Hippychick Footmuff
Reviewer’s thoughts Designed really well. Love that it has a pocket to keep little hands warm, this is perfect for toddlers.
Price £64.99
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he Hippychick Footmuff includes two cover options a Spring/Autumn cover with a light padding and a Winter cover with extra deep padding to keep your child snug on the coldest of days. Made from the same sturdy practical fabric as our waterproofs the footmuffs are breathable and machine washable. Hippychick Footmuffs are available in 4 striking colourways and two sizes. The Hippychick Footmuff keeps yoou u ur ch ild snug on the he coldest of days
SEE MORE AT www.hippychick.com Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
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Best baby& toddler gear
SnoozeShade Original Price £19.99
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noozeShade Original is the UK’s first and best-selling sun and sleep shade for buggies. It was invented by a British mum who wanted to help her little one sleep on-the-go and protect her from the sun, wind and chill while she napped. Easy to use on all types of prams and pushchairs SnoozeShade is also endorsed by leading sleep experts and health professionals worldwide. Made from a special breathable mesh, it blocks distractions and helps the over tired to switch off wherever they are. SnoozeShade also blocks 99% of the sun’s harsh UV rays. It can be used for sleep, overhead shade, as a UV blanket and to extend a pram’s canopy and is ideal for any time when parents need to get out at naptime, perfect for holidays and days out.
SEE MORE AT www.snoozeshade.com
Reviewer’s thoughts SnoozeShade is a super practical shade for any pram. Protects from sun and harmful UVA and UVB, insects, will help your baby to fall asleep by blocking distractions from exciting world outside the pushchair.
Not just for sleep and more sle versatile than a vers parasol
Keep baby’s routine on tra ck wherever yo u are
Best baby& toddler gear
Babymoov Swoon Up
Reviewer’s thoughts
2 heights, 2 modes
The chair is well designed and uses high quality fabrics. The newborn insert is lovely and soft.
Price £119.99
U
nlike any other baby bouncer that has gone before, the Swoon Up helps put baby at the heart of family life. The unique, height adjustable design elevates baby away from floor level and cold draughts, up into parent’s sightline, enabling them to benefit from reassuring interactions with the family and engage fully with the environment around them. The two heights provide greater flexibility; parents can heighten the bouncer to table height for stimulation, and lower to sofa height when relaxing. A natural rocking movement also works to gently soothe baby. This baby bouncer is adjustable and ultracompact thanks to its unique folding system.
Natural rocking movement to soothe your baby
SEE MORE AT www.babymoov.co.uk
Strider 12” Sport Balance Bike Price £80
Reviewers thoughts
Fully adjustable requiring no tools olss assembly, ready dy to ride in minutes
Quick and easy to construct, the Strider 12” Sport is a fab little balance bike which is suitable for up to 5 years.
T
he 12” Sport model offers every feature you could want on a first bike. The perfect balance of performance, options and value, featuring more than 8 years of design evolution and manufacturing improvements by the company that only makes balance bikes, Strider. Suitable from 18 months to 5 years, the Sport features two adjustable seat posts to fit every child covering a huge range of 27cm to 48cm inside leg. Mini grips cater for tiny hands, two widths of seat are provided to accommodate children’s narrow hip spacing and the handlebars fully adjust, so the bike grows with your child. Every component is designed exclusively by Strider and they stock a full range of spares and accessories so you can pass the bike down to siblings.
SEE MORE AT www.striderbike.co.uk
Patented integrated ted footrest st to tuck feet up on whilst riding ng
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Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Best baby& toddler gear
Persil Non-Bio
Reviewer’s thoughts Aside from the fresh, clean fragrance - does it work? Yes! Yes it does. It is by far the best detergent I’ve used.
Price £7
F
abric detergent Persil Non-Bio helps make sure clothes are soft, clean and comforting. Specially made to be skin kind and dermatologically tested, it has skincare research recognised by the British Skin Foundation and gives fresh, pure results gentle enough for even delicate skin. Gentle enough for even delicate skin
Skin kind and dermatolog ically tested
SEE MORE AT www.persilandcomfort.co.uk
Surcare Laundry Range Prices from £1
S
pecially formulated to be kinder to sensitive skin, Surcare laundry and dishwashing products are not only gentle but give an outstanding cleaning performance each and every time. The products, which are all independently dermatologically tested and approved don’t contain any unnecessary ingredients that could irritate skin. There are no enzymes, dyes, acids or perfumes. The Surcare range includes Washing-Up Liquid, Non-Biological Super Concentrated Laundry Liquid and NonBiological Washing Powder which, along with Non-Biological Laundry Capsules, all boast Allergy UK’s Seal of Approval. This prestigious endorsement recognises products that have a significantly reduced allergen or chemical content and the Surcare range has met the standards required by protocols which have been created by leading allergy specialists.
Reviewer’s thoughts Su rca re products boast Allergy UK K’ss pr prestigio us Seal off Ap A pprova l
SEE MORE AT www.surcare.co.uk Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
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With three very mucky children’s clothes to get clean, the Surcare was really put to the test in our house and I’m pleased to say it did really well.
Best baby& toddler gear
Aldi Anco So Soft Concentrated Fabric Conditioner
Reviewer’s thoughts I was really impressed with the Aldi Fabric Softener. I’d definitely buy it again. There was no sign of any irritation on sensitive skin which is of course great news.
Price £0.99
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ldi’s exclusive laundry cleaning ranges, Almat and Anco, give you a great, fresh and above all, quality clean. Anco So Soft Concentrated Fabric Conditioner is Good Houskeeping Institute Approved, demonstrating the quality and value that it offers consumers. Leaving clothes smelling fresh and fragrant and feeling beautifully soft, Anco So Soft Concentrated Fabric Conditioner is dermatologically tested and available in Bluebell, Pure & Gentle, Lavender or Honeysuckle.
Las Lasts a for 40 washes w
Leaves your clothes feeling fresh and beautifully soft
SEE MORE AT www.aldi.co.uk
Almat Super Concentrated Liquid Wash Non Biological
Reviewer’s thoughts Amazing! I tried it on all sorts of washes and it proved itself every time. You get a whopping 28 washes in each bottle. I will be buying Aldi Almat after these tests.
Price £2.29
Clean and sta in fre C e eeven in a qu ick wa sh
A
ldi’s exclusive laundry cleaning ranges, Almat and Anco, give you a great, fresh and above all, quality clean. Almat Super Concentrated Liquid Wash Non-Biological is Good Houskeeping Institute Approved, demonstrating the quality and value that it offers consumers. Leaving clothes perfectly clean while smelling fresh and fragrant, Almat Super Concentrated Liquid Wash Non-Biological is dermatologically tested and lasts for 25 washes.
y
Dermatologicall tested
SEE MORE AT www.aldi.co.uk
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Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Best baby& toddler gear
Aldi Mamia Baby Bath
Reviewer’s thoughts The Mamia Baby Bath by Aldi smells lovely and only requires a small amount. I would highly recommend.
Price £0.79
A
ldi’s Mamia Baby Bath gently cleanses baby’s skin and has a tears free formula. Paediatrician approved, the Mamia Baby Bath contains Vitamin E to help keep skin soft and moisturised. The mild formula ensures a happy and fun bath time with your little one.
Contains Vitamin E V
Pa ediatr icia n a pprove d
SEE MORE AT www.aldi.co.uk
Aldi Mamia Baby Shampoo
Reviewer’s thoughts Their hair felt, looked and smelt great. I’m very impressed, I shall be buying more of this.
Price £0.79
A
ldi’s Mamia Baby Shampoo gently cleanses baby’s hair and has a tears free formula to ensure an enjoyable bath time. Paediatrician approved, the Mamia Baby Shampoo contains Vitamin E to protect and nourish baby’s skin and hair. The mild formula leaves hair smelling fresh and clean.
Mild formula
Pa ediatrician approved
SEE MORE AT www.aldi.co.uk Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
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Best baby& toddler gear
Clair de Lune Sherbet Polka Blanket
Reviewer’s thoughts The quality of the blanket was very high. It was soft and just what you would expect of a high end product.
Soft 100% cotton
Price £29.99
T
his beautiful 100% cotton, heavyweight, knitted blanket is ideal for bedtime, daytime naps or out and about in the stroller. Makes an ideal gift for a newborn or to take to a baby shower. Available in grey, pink or blue. Size: 70 x 90cms. Machine washable.
Ideal gift
SEE MORE AT www.clair -de- lune.co.uk
Clair de Lune Cotton Candy Cot/Cotbed Quilt & Bumper
Reviewer’s thoughts Delicately embro ide derred ed hea rts and cir irccle less
It is a truly beautiful product and wonderfully lightweight. The four ties on the bumper are long enough to tether securely to the bars of the cot. I would highly recommend this product to any parent.
Price £54.99
T
his exquisite quilt and bumper set is made in the UK from quality fabric featuring a delicately embroidered pattern of circles and hearts. The lightweight quilt is ideal for the warmer months and can be layered up with sheets and blankets in the colder months to find the optimum temperature for your baby. It is available in blue, ivory and pink. Machine washable at 40 degrees. Quilt To fit cot/cotbed; 100 x 125cms. Bumper To fit cot/cotbed; 138 x 40cms.
Lightweight, versatile qu ilt
SEE MORE AT www.clair- de- lune.co.uk
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Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Best baby& toddler gear
Cheeky Chompers Comfortchew Price £17.95
T
he Comfortchew, the latest innovation in teething products, brings together four of baby’s favourite essentials in one product – comforter, teether, tags and the luxurious feel of their favourite teddy. The elasticated loop means that the Comfortchew will stay attached to the baby, pram, carseat or dummy to ensure it doesn’t get lost! Made from supersoft jersey cotton and cuddle fleece that is delicate on young skin but highly absorbent, the Comfortchew’s hippo teether gives great ‘bite’ using an innovative dimpled design to massage and soothe tender gums and encourage new teeth to break through. Soft and pliable, the Comfortchew contains no phthalates or BPA, it’s 100% safe for babies to chew on. As a chewy friend or a comforter to soothe, the Comfortchew has been developed by mums for mums.
Reviewer’s thoughts The teether is great, robust and fab to chew on. I really liked the colour. We loved the strap and found it easy to attach on to my child’s wrist, or clip it to the pram or shopping trolley.
Cuddle and chew, I’m attached to you!
The elasticated loop mea ns to the Comfortchew can atta ch baby, dum my, car seat or cot!
SEE MORE AT www.cheekychompers.com
Nelsons Teetha Teething Granules
Reviewer’s thoughts I cannot recommend these highly enough 10/10. It really is amazing !! It’s like a miracle powder but natural, what more could I want from a teething powder!
Price £5.10
N
elsons Teetha Teething Granules are a homeopathic remedy specially formulated for the soothing and calming relief of the symptoms of teething. It is ready dosed in a convenient granule format that simply dissolves in a baby’s mouth to help provide teething pain relief. It contains a 6c homeopathic potency of natural Chamomilla. Nelsons Teetha Teething Granules costs £5.10, available from Boots, Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Asda, Waitrose, Morrisons and all good pharmacies.
Ha ndy sa chet format
hic
at Natu ra l homeop remedy
SEE MORE AT www.nelsonsnaturalworld.com Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
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www.buggysnuggle.com the place for snuggly stuff!
For 15% off the original, luxury Buggysnuggle foot muffs & other original & practical products quote code: MUMII15
Best baby& toddler gear
DS AWARINFO a t io n EXTReA in fo r m
r t r ie s Fo r m o a r ’s e n h is ye t t to u d o ab , hea in n e r s and w k
Mumii
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hether it’s a pushchair, a potty, a sling or a weaning range you want to know about, our everexpanding Best Baby & Toddler Gear Awards will tell you everything you need to know. Now in their third year, these Awards highlight the best baby, toddler and parenting products on the market and are unquestionably the ones that no parent wants to miss. With every product e ct ‘real-life real life
Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
tested’ by parents and scored by industry experts, you can be sure of honest, frank and sincere reviews to guide your buying choices now and in the future. Money, time and patience are not endless resources, so getting it right first time is crucial for mums and dads. That’s why 2015’s awards cover more than 150 categories, with every reviewer testing all the products in their dedicated category and scoring each against customised review criteria.
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A Best Baby & Toddler Gear Award is a stamp of approval from parents, so for this year’s gold, silver and bronze winners, it is quite the accolade and one to be proud of. One product in every category has also won a Consumer Choice Award, as voted for by consumers on mumii.co.uk. Read on to discover this year’s winning products and to find out why they have been crowned the hottest buys on the market by parents and industry stry experts. O
PUSHCHAIRS
CAR SEATS
The ultimates in child transport...
Safety and comfort from the best...
All Terrain
Extended Rear Facing
Stokke Trailz Graco Evo XT Mountain Buggy urban jungle the luxury collection Out ‘n’ About Nipper Single V4
First Pushchair iCandy Strawberry 2 Cosatto Woop BabyStyle Oyster2 Mamas & Papas Armadillo Flip
For Two (Tandem/Double) UPPAbaby Vista Tandem Out ‘n’ About Nipper Double V4 BabyStyle Oyster Max Out ‘n’ About Nipper Double V4
Luxury Pushchair UPPAbaby Vista Mamas & Papas Chestnut Tweed Urbo2 Silver Cross Surf 2 UPPAbaby Vista
Best baby& toddler gear
Joie i-Anchor Maxi-Cosi 2wayPearl and 2wayFix Base BeSafe Combi X4 BeSafe Combi X4
Group 0+ Maxi-Cosi Pebble Plus BeSafe iZi GO Kiddy Evo-lunafix Maxi-Cosi Pebble Plus
Group 1-2-3 Cosatto Hug RECARO Young Sport HERO Graco Nautilus Elite RECARO Young Sport HERO
Car Seat Group 2-3 RECARO Monza Nova 2 Seatfix Graco Affix Hauck Bodyguard Plus RECARO Monza Nova 2 Seatfix
BABY CARRYING Up close and personal....
Carriers Connecta Baby Carrier Ergobaby Four Position 360 Bundle of Joy Pao Papoose™ Connecta Baby Carrier
Single Stroller Mamas & Papas Armadillo o XT UPPAbaby 2015 G-Luxe iCandy Raspberry Cosatto Supa
Wraps/Slings
Travel System
Caboo +organic Wuti Wrap™ Papoozle Caboo +organic
Cybex Priam & Cloud Q UPPAbaby Cruz Silver Cross Pioneer Silver Cross Pioneer
Footmuff/Cosytoes GIFTS
Hippychick Footmuff Buggysnuggle footmuff Betty Bramble Luxury Footmuff otmuff Kozy Kartz Stroller Footmuff uff
Presents to mark the occasion...
Baby Silver Cross Rag Doll Collection My 1st Years Baby Gift Set Turnouts Newborn Gift Bundle Turnouts Newborn Gift Bundle
Parent The Crafty Calf Decorative Photo Papercut Smallprint High Five Pendant on a fine belcher chain Baby Art Belly Kit The Crafty Calf Decorative Photo Papercut
PPage 91
Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Best baby& toddler gear
FEEDING continued...
Feeding Bowls
FEEDING Time to get messy, maybe not...
+ Pacific Baby Natural Feeding Bowl & Cup + Brother Max Weaning Bowl Set + Vital Baby Unbelievabowl Suction Bowl + Brother Max Weaning Bowl Set
Bibs
Weaning Product
+ + + +
+ Vital Baby Weaning Set + Fill n Squeeze Baby food pouch maker starter kit + Brother Max Weaning Pots + Vital Baby Weaning Set
Bumkins Sleeved Bib Brother Max Catch & Fold Baby Bibs Munchkin Crumb Catcher Bibs Brother Max Catch & Fold Baby Bibs
Baby Food Brand + Organix Weaning Range + Mamia 100% Organic Food Range + Organix Weaning Range
Bottle/Teat + + + +
Philips Avent Newborn Starter Set The Comotomo Bottle Munchkin LATCH™ Bottle Philips Avent Newborn Starter Set
Highchairs + + + +
Geuther Swing Highchair Cosatto Noodle Supa Highchair Stokke Tripp Trapp Stokke Tripp Trapp
Toddler Food Brand + Organix Goodies Toddler Range + Kiddylicious Toddler Snack Range + Kiddylicious Toddler Snack Range
Toddler/Training Cups + Vital Baby Kidisipper Soft Grip Sportz + tommee tippee Non Spill Training Cups + Munchkin Miracle™ 360° Sippy Cup + Munchkin Miracle™ 360° Sippy Cup
Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
BATHTIME Splish, splash, splosh...
Bathtime - Baby Bath + + + +
Stokke Flexibath Shnuggle Baby Bath Puj Flyte Shnuggle Baby Bath
CLOTHING The best dressed babes...
Baby Towel
Baby Clothing Brand
+ Cuddledry Original Baby Bath Towel + Close Parent Pop-in Apron Hooded Towel + Clair de Lune Honeycomb Luxury Hooded Towel + Cuddledry Original Baby Bath Towel
+ Lilly + Sid SS15 Collection ‘English Country Garden’ + shmuncki Betsey Ann Collection + Minene Clothing Range + shmuncki Betsey Ann Collection
Bathtime Toy + Cheeky Rascals Sloopi bath toy + Munchkin The Scooper Hooper™ + Munchkin Scrubby & Squeegee Friends™ + Munchkin The Scooper Hooper™
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Maternity Clothing Brand + Emma-Jane Maternity + Bibee Maternity + Emma-Jane Maternity
Maternity/Nursing Underwear + + + +
Emma-Jane Lingerie Bravado Body Silk Seamless Nursing Bra Emma-Jane Lingerie
Best baby& toddler gear
SLEEPING continued...
Nursery Furniture Set Silver Cross Notting Hill 3 Piece Set Stokke Home BabyStyle Charnwood Bordeaux Room Set BabyStyle Charnwood Bordeaux Room Set
Nursery Interiors
SLEEPING
SLEEPING
The best at bed time...
continued...
Baby Sleeping Bags
Mattresses
Babasac multi tog baby sleeping bag Grobag Pink Lining Sleeping Bag Pink Lining Sleeping Bag
Bedside Cot/Crib Chicco Next2Me Halo Bassinest Micuna Cododo Co- Sleeper Chicco Next2Me
Blankets BabyStyle Baby Bunny Blanket Clair de Lune Sherbet Polka Blanket Clair de Lune Honeycomb Bunny Hooded Blanket BabyStyle Baby Bunny Blanket
Cot/Cotbed Silver Cross Notting Hill Cot Bed Cosatto Story 3-in-1 Cotbed Charnwood Biarritz Cot Bed Silver Cross Notting Hill Cot Bed
Cot/Cotbed Bedding Silver Cross Vintage Bedding Clair de Lune Cotton Quilt & Bumper Clair de Lune Lottie & Squeek/Ahoy there Quilt & Bumper Pink Lining Hop Skip Jump to Bed & One Starry Night Quilt and Bumper Set
Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
Lorena Canals Washable Rug Minene Storage Solutions Range Play & Go Storage Bag & Play Mat Play & Go Storage Bag & Play Mat
Sleep Aids
Silver Cross Posture Start Cot Mattress Silentnight Safe Nights Memory Wool Mattress Pure Zees Certified asthma & allergy friendly Baby Mattress
Moses Basket Clair de Lune 3 Piece Waffle Set Clair de Lune Cotton Candy Wicker Noah Pod Moba Contemporary Moses Basket Pink Lining Moses Basket
Moses Basket Bedding Clair de Lune 4 Piece Moses Bedding Bale Gift Set Moba Contemporary Moses Basket Bedding Clair de Lune 4 Piece Moses Bedding Bale Gift Set
Audio Monitor BT Monitor 350 Lightshow BT Monitor 300 Motorola MBP161 Timer BT Monitor 350 Lightshow
Video Monitor BT Video Baby Monitor 7000 BT Video Baby Monitor 7500 Lightshow Motorola MBP853 Connect Motorola MBP853 Connect
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SnoozeShade Original Tiny Love Magical Night Mobile Sweet Dreamers ewan the dream sheep SnoozeShade Original
Swaddle Isla & Wilbur Bamboo Swaddle Gro Swaddle Ergobaby Swaddler Gro Swaddle
Travel Cots Joie Secure Click Midway Change & Rock Chicco Lullago Joie Secure Click Midway Change & Rock
BREAST FEEDING Making things easier...
Accessories PregnancyPillows Nursing Pillow Medela Breastfeeding Starter Kit Bennu Babies Breastfeeding Pillows Bennu Babies Breastfeeding Pillows
Electronic Breast Pumps Lansinoh 2 in 1 Electric Breast Pump Medela Swing-Maxi NUK Luna Electric Breast Pump Medela Swing-Max
Best baby& toddler gear
AWAKE TIME Make playtime a good time...
Baby + + + +
Tiny Love Gymini Kick n Play Taf Toys Cot Play Centre Babycademy Music Time Tiny Love Gymini Kick n Play
Electronic + Discover Sounds Activity Garden + Tiny Love Double Sided Crib Toy + Discover Sounds Activity Garden
Ride-on + + + +
smarTrike 5 in 1 Explorer Strider Bike Strider 12 Sport Kiddimoto Kurve Strider Bike Strider 12 Sport
+
HEALTH AND SAFETY Caring for you and yours...
continued...
At Home
Best Laundry Brand
+ + + +
+ Persil Non-Bio + Aldi Anco So Soft Concentrated Fabric Conditioner + Surcare Sensitive Super Concentrated Laundry Liquid + Persil Non-Bio
Milton Sterilising Fluid Safety 1st Auto Close Gate Brother Max 3-in-1 Thermometer SafeheadBABY
Out and About + Vital Baby Aquaint Sanitising Water + Pogu High Visibility Reflectors + Pogu High Visibility Reflectors
Pregnancy Wellbeing + + + +
U-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow holo - the lilo with a hole L-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow L-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow
Organic Pregnancy & Postnatal Skincare + Pai Skincare + Essential Care Mum Range + Essential Care Mum Range
Dental and Oral Care + + + +
Nelsons Teetha Teething Granules Aleva Naturals Tooth ‘n’ Gum Wipes Brush-Baby Dental Wipes BugBrush
Sterilisers + Philips Avent Microwave Steam Steriliser + tommee tippee Microwave Steam Steriliser + NUK Microwave Steam Steriliser + Philips Avent Microwave Steam Steriliser
Swim Safety + Konfidence Octonauts Lieutenant Kwazii Konfidence Jacket + Zoggy/Miss Zoggy Swimfree Floatsuit + The Splash About Happy Nappy Wetsuit + Zoggy/Miss Zoggy Swimfree Floatsuit
Toddler + LEGO DUPLO My First Farm + Orchard Toys Pigs in Pants + LEGO DUPLO My First Farm
Seating - Baby Bouncer/Rocker + + + +
HEALTH AND SAFETY
Chicco Balloon Babymoov Swoon Up Tiny Love 3 in 1 Rocker Napper Tiny Love 3 in 1 Rocker Napper
Travel Essentials + Milton Sterilising Tablets + Milton Mini Portable Soother Steriliser + Totseat + Totseat
Teething Toys
Baby Skincare + + + +
Aldi Mamia Baby Bath & Shampoo Bennetts Baby Skincare Essential Care Baby Range Bennetts Baby Skincare
+ Innobaby Smart Ez Grip Massaging as Fruit Teether er + Cheeky Chompers The Comfortchew rtchew + Cheeky eky Chompers The Comfortchew mfortchew
Pregnancy and Postnatal Skincare + Bio-Oil + Silgel Scar Treatment + Bio-Oil
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Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
B Best baby& ttoddler gear
CHANGING AND NAPPIES Everything for the baby bum...
Changing Bag + + + +
Babymule Changing Bag Clair de Lune Oxford Changing Bag Pink Lining Notting Hill Tote Pink Lining Notting Hill Tote
BRITISH DESIGN
Luxury Changing Bag
UK style and quality...
+ OiOi Faux Lizard Carry All + Lässig Neckline Changing Bag + OiOi Faux Lizard Carry All
Made For Baby + Clair de Lune Silver Lining Cot/ Cotbed Quilt & Bumper Set + Moba’s Contemporary Moses Basket + The Poddle Pod + The Poddle Pod
Changing Mat + Clair de Lune Cotton Candy Changing Mattress + Splash About Anti-Bacterial Changing Mat + Splash About Anti-Bacterial Changing Mat
Made For Toddler + Trunki Made for Me + The Toddle Pod + The Toddle Pod
Disposable Nappies + Aldi Mamia Ultra-Dry Nappies + Asda Little Angels Supreme Protection Nappies + Morrisons Little Big Stretchi-Fit Disposable Nappies + Aldi Mamia Ultra-Dry Nappies
Disposable Nappies for Newborn + Asda Little Angels Newborn Nappy + Aldi Mamia Newborn Nappies + Asda Little Angels Newborn Nappy with Dreamskin technology + Aldi Mamia Newborn Nappies
Toddler Training Pants + Aldi Mamia Easy Pants + Asda Little Angels Potty Training Pants + Asda Little Angels First Pants + Bambo Nature Training Pants
Reusable Nappies + + + +
Tots Bots Easyfit V4 Close Pop-in Newborn Nappy Tots Bots Bamboozle Stretch Wonderoos Real Easy Nappies
Swim Nappies + + + +
Close Pop-In Swim Nappy Splash About Happy Nappy Aldi Mamia Swim Pants Close Pop-In Swim Nappy
Nappy Disposal System + Ubbi Diaper Pail + Korbell Nappy Bin
Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
MOST INNOVATIVE Wish I’d thought of that...
For Baby
CHANGING AND NAPPIES continued....
+ Sangenic Nappy Disposal System + Ubbi Diaper Pail
Wipes - Baby + Aldi Mamia Sensitive Baby Wipes + Aldi Mamia Fragranced Baby Wipes + Morrisons Little Big Mild as Water Newborn Wipes + Aldi Mamia Sensitive Baby Wipes
Wipes - Eco-friendly + Bambo Nature Baby Wipes + Aleva Naturals Bamboo Baby Wipes + Bambo Nature Baby Wipes
Wipes - Toddler + + + +
Morrisons Little Big Easy Cleaning Fruity Toddler Wipes Aldi Mamia Toddler Wipes Aldi Mamia Toddler Wipes
Potty + Ubbi 3 in 1 Potty + My Carry Potty + Munchkin Odour Eliminating 3 in 1 Potty + My Carry Potty
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+ Braun ThermoScan 7 ear thermometer with Age Precision + Bundlebean for babywearing + Snugglebundl + Little Grippers Baby Socks with Stay On Technology
For Parent + Maxi-Cosi AxissFix + U-Shaped Sensifil Pregnancy Pillow Baby Case + U-Shaped Sensifil Pregnancy Pillow
For Toddler + + + +
Tidy Tot Trunki ToddlePak Russell the dream sheepdog Kozy Kartz Shopping Trolley Seat over
NEW TO MARKET I need one of those...
Baby + egg stroller + Splash About’s Happy Nappy Wetsuit + Gro-Snug + Gro-Snug
Parent + Bravado Sweet Pea Nursing Bra + Splash About OnBoard Maternity Swimming Costumes + Bravado Sweet Pea Nursing Bra
Rabbits from Clair de Lune Visit the website to view the complete range
www.clair-de-lune.co.uk 0161 491 9800 facebook.com/clairdeluneuk
Best baby& toddler gear
t s i l h s i w y M Deciding what you need to buy when you are expec ting can be a daunting task and an expensive one at that! Ou r advice is to make yourself an old fa shioned list! a nt What I w
What I need
What I d
Best baby & toddler gear 2015/16
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