When I was pregnant with M, finances were extremely tight, and I was very much on the lookout for free stuff for moms. There are so many brands out there that are trying to market to new moms, and one of the ways they market is by offering samples of their products for free. Not only is that a wonderful way to explore the various baby brands out there, and decide which you like, but you’ll also save some money on all those free stuff for babies.

I did the same with Y and Princess A (born 2016 and 2020) and I update this post as often as I find necessary so these should pretty much all be active today!

Table of contents:

• A few words of caution about free samples
• Free Baby Registry Boxes
• Free Stuff for Moms via free Sampling Clubs
• “Just pay shipping” Free Baby Essentials & Conveniences
• Free Stuff for Moms via Insurance Benefits or Child Safety Programs
• Community and Needs Based Baby Freebies
• Free Trial Memberships and More

A few words of caution about free samples

Some things are totally free, but some will require you to pay shipping. Often, it’s worth it, as the shipping is a fraction of the cost of purchasing that product.

Tip: Get those that you can really use, and skip the rest.

Avoid samples that say “when you complete offers” like fire! In my experience they are NOT legit, sometimes take you through so many hoops where you accidentally sign up for magazines, insurance, and whatnot. Some of them seriously seem to sell your info (but I could be wrong).

Most companies offer you a freebie because they hope you’ll like it enough to buy afterward. Indeed, I have chosen the brands of baby bottles I stick to based on free samples.

Many free stuff for moms are actually trials. Meaning, the company is giving you a chance to try the service before you buy it – and you might just want to continue! That means, once the trial period is over, it will charge you. ALL OF THOSE IN THIS LIST CAN BE CANCELED! I made sure! I wouldn’t share with you any kind of subscription service that can’t be canceled.

Tip: You can spot auto-renewed trials by the terminology – they are usually referred to as trials, not samples.

Another tip: when you order it, note when the renewal is. Set an alarm on your phone a few days before the renewal. Assess how much you liked the service, if it’s worth continuing. If not, cancel it. You won’t be charged. I’ve done this many times and it’s been fool-proof. I have yet to pay for a service I didn’t like.

Free Baby Registry Boxes

Oh glorious registries! These are my absolute favorites! I’ve gotten so many goodies in registry boxes and they’ve helped me figure out the right bottles and pacifiers for my babies, stockpile some basics, and try new things. Some have even come with swaddle blankets and bodysuits! Baby registry boxes usually come with a good mix of full size and samples and also help you with your first few weeks of needs.

Some registries have basic requirements before they send a box, noted below. Content varies so any images are just samples of what you might see in one of these boxes.

They also come with other perks, such as completion discounts, which can save you a LOT!

Amazon – My absolute favorite. You need to complete (as in put together, NOT purchase) 60% of the registry, and purchase $10 from it. I purchased an essential from the registry myself since I shop Amazon anyway. If you get only one of the free stuff for moms on this list, this should be the one!

Target – You’ll need to go in store to pick this one up but you can create the registry online first. You’ll get a QR code they’ll scan to give you your gift bag. You’ll also probably get some coupons to use. No requirements other than having a registry.

Walmart – just fill out a form and it’s shipped to your house.

Free Stuff for Moms via free Sampling Clubs

Free $10 Children’s Place Credit – Through their referral program! If you sign up through this link, you get $10 toward baby and kids’ clothing and accessories – that ship free!

Sign up with Similac – You can sign up for free samples of baby formula, plus they’ll also send you checks in the mail. Even if you plan to breastfeed, you’ll want to have a few cans handy just in case.

Sign up with Enfamil. Both clubs are very similar, and it’s a great way to see which formulas your baby takes.

Medela Moms Room – If you plan to breastfeed, join the Moms Room for a few samples (such as breast milk storage bags, sterilizing bags, etc).

Bump Club and Beyond Baby Bag – This one was similar to the registry freebies and so cool! Follow the instructions to claim your totally free baby samples.

Motherhood Preggie Perks – I haven’t received this one, but it seems to be Motherhood Maternity’s club, which gives you a welcome bag when you arrive. From my research, it seems to be a much more slimmed down version of the registry freebies with lots of coupons and a few samples.

Get a free $10 if you’re new to Rakuten. Rakuten is an online rebate website. If you shop through their links, you get rebates at various merchandisers. You also get a $10 bonus when you use them the first time. I use them ALL.THE.TIME. and have made quite a few nice payouts. This is possibly one of the best free stuff for moms (or anyone else) – I got a $10 Target gift card when I signed up, used it to buy diapers, AND got 2.5% back on the Children’s Place order I was anyway placing.

Tip: Install their web browser add-on to remind you to use them when you shop – they auto-load the best coupon code for that website too!

“Just pay shipping” Free Baby Essentials & Conveniences

Reminder: since you’re paying shipping, stick to those that are helpful to you and get incredible value!

Free Nanobebe sample pack: just pay under $5 S&H. I love this brand and used their products for Princess A.

Instructions for the rest of this section: Click on “shop now” and select the amount of the coupon value that you would like to your cart. I tried to list coupon value on each product/website. Once you have made your selection, you will automatically be directed to the shopping bag. Enter the promo code “PJBABY” and the coupon value will be deducted. These books make GREAT gifts too; selections dwindle quickly so get yours ASAP! *Remember, you can use the promo code “PJBABY” more than once, just open a new browser to do so!* *Offers valid while supplies last.

Belly button band for pregnancy – Promo Code PJBABY. Code has $40 value so you can get 2 belly button bands or one belly button body. I had these and they helped me get much more use out of my bottoms while pregnant and saved me so much $$! They are also great for postpartum until my old clothing fit again.

Breast pads – Promo code PJBABY. Code has $35 value. Reusable pads are so convenient (no peeling wrappers, etc), save money, and are greener. If you plan to breastfeed you’ll want these! They also helped keep me warm when I was having issues with vasospasm.

Baby leggings or bandana bibs – Promo Code PJBABY for a $50 value. At $10 each you can get 5.

Baby Board Books – Promo Code PJBABY for $40 off. Books are $8 each and perfect for establishing that first library, and for gifts.

Free Ruffle Buns – Promo Code PJBABY for $60 off. These are incredibly cute ruffled diaper covers for girls, including dressy options. They also have a line of non-ruffled ones for boys. You can get 3 for this value.

Free Custom Snappies Bodysuits – Promo Code PJBABY for $50 off. That works for two bodysuits – either their designs or create your own.

Free Car seat canopy – use code PJBABY for $50 off. For free, choose from jersey stretch covers, hanging canopies, muslin canopies, and more. Some items are pricier but you can still use the $50 off coupon for them.

Nursing Pillow– use code PJBABY for $40 off. That covers the cost of the print pillows, but you can upgrade to minky fabric for a few bucks.

I really wished I had this when I was breastfeeding M, but did not know about this freebie for moms. The cost of buying one in the store was too forbidding, so I did without. I used nursing pillows for Y and Princess A. They are a lifesaver.I highly recommend paying the shipping cost on this – it’s worth having!

Free Nursing cover – use code PJBABY for $35 off. Same story as above! I missed this so much with my first!

Free Baby Carrier – Code PJBABY for $40 credit. Get a free sling-style baby carrier for this value! They have wrap carriers too but those are $20 more.

Free Stuff for Moms via Insurance Benefits or Child Safety Programs

Free breast pump: As part of the Affordable Care Act, new moms can get a free breast pump via their insurance. I actually didn’t place an order from mine, until I learned that the Medela that I had and loved with M has an open system and is not safe to reuse (as bacteria and mold can build up inside and reach the baby.) So I finally ordered a new one via my insurance.

Car seats – Some insurance companies help with or provide a baby car seat. Contact yours to find out.

Free Window Safety Retrofit Kits: Window shade cords are a strangulation hazard, so if your home has corded shades, you can order free kits to fix it.

OTC card: Some insurances offer a free Over the Counter benefit. That’s a monthly budget that’s usable for certain items. You may be able to use it for lactation supplies, adult incontinence products (which are great for postpartum), diaper rash creams, and more. Reach out to your insurance (or google) to find out.

Community and Needs Based Baby Freebies

Having a baby is expensive for most people, but if you’re really struggling, the occasional sample might not be enough. Thankfully, there ARE community resources that can help you, and I’ve tried to include as many as I know about here.

Craigslist, Facebook local groups/marketplace: Many people are looking to purge old baby stuff. Hit up “give away” websites and you might even find someone charging $0 for their old baby gear! Meet up safely – here are some tips.

Some items shouldn’t be used second hand – such as cribs and car seats – unless you know and trust the person giving it to you.

Car seats: There are some income-based resources for free car seats which you can find here. If you receive WIC or SNAP benefits you are likely eligible. There may be additional requirements (such as owning a vehicle or attending a child passenger safety class). You can also ask at your local WIC offices about this.

Diaper Banks: If you are in need of diapers, find out if you have one near you or how you can access free diapers here.

Free Trial Memberships and More

Try Amazon Family for 30 days – free! You have all the benefits of Prime, plus extra discounts on things such as diapers. (You should definitely do this if you’re creating an Amazon registry, as it’s likely required for your gift box, plus you’ll get a larger completion discount.)

Free month of ABCmouse.com – Entertain you kids while educating them! I love this for keeping kids busy. This is also perfect for summer and winter break boredom – a productive activity to save mom’s sanity!

Free Kindle Unlimited Trial – When breastfeeding I read A LOT. Frankly, being incapacitated while recovering postpartum can be boring. Sign up for Kindle Unlimited’s free trial.

You can also give Audible Plus a try for free.

Want more? I put together a new list of freebies for women! Check it out…

Did I miss something? Which free stuff for moms did you get, or do you know of? I’d love to hear in the comments below!

The post 21 Free Stuff for moms and babies appeared first on Moms and Crafters.

What is the best video baby monitor – Parent Unit or WiFi?

There are two main kinds of video baby monitors featured here:

1. Those that include a parent unit with a display for viewing the baby
2. Those that require you to use your phone for viewing over WiFi

When searching for the best video baby monitor, there’s one thing you’ll need to keep in mind: they simply do not have the crisp, clear images that they are advertised with. In that way, they are all equal. You need to see photos in the reviews for the real image quality.

In that way, I have found that my WiFi connected monitor was my best video baby monitor that I tried. I believe that this is due to the fact that your phone in general has a much better video quality, so they can invest more into making a quality camera and not worry about the display.

The downside of a Wifi monitor is that I find the connectivity to a bit more complicated to get going. That being said, I’ve scoured for the best reviewed monitors even beyond the ones that I personally tried and came up with FOUR for you to choose and decide what’s the best video baby monitor for your needs.

You’ll find a budget-friendly and a top-rated option for standard video monitors and for Wifi-connected ones that work with your smartphone.

In each section, I’ll outline the pros and cons of that type of video baby monitor too.

The Best Video Baby Monitor with an Included Parent Unit:

Pros of video baby monitors with a parent unit:

• You don’t need to drain your own phone battery
• You don’t need to spend any of your phone resources: memory
• Connection is easy and seamless – no complicated setup

Cons of video baby monitors with a parent unit:

• You can’t view baby remotely (from a different location – meaning, it doesn’t work as a “nanny cam”)
• You have another thing to keep charged and keep track of
• I have personally found screen quality to be lower than on phone apps

The top rated best video baby monitor: over 17,000 4-5 star reviews:

The Infant Optics DXR-8 Video Baby Monitor has consistent glowing reviews – and with an average of 4.4 stars out of over 20,000 reviews, I know I can rely on them. And it’s not even the most expensive one out there – surprise, surprise!

It’s the Amazon #1 best seller as this article is being written, and let’s explore why.

Some cool features:

• The lens of the camera itself is interchangeable. While it includes one specific lens, that means that you just need to replace the lens to customize it to your needs. For example, you can add on a wide-angle lens to see more of the room for just a few bucks.
• The LED display is sound activated, so that you’re not draining the battery while your baby is quiet.
• One feature that is SO convenient and often missed when  you get the wrong baby monitor: remote pan, tilt, and zoom! This best video baby monitor has it, allowing you to reposition the camera from the parent unit.
• Long battery life: 6 hours active, 10 hours in battery saver mode
• It takes just a few steps and a few seconds to pair or re-pair the camera and the parent unit.
• Night vision is a MUST considering your baby usually sleeps in the dark, right?
• Expandable up to 4 cameras
• Displays baby room temperature on the parent unit
• Talk-back feature – you can talk to your babies from your parent unit (my kids call our baby monitors “the robot” for this reason – much cooler, no?)

There are more features, way to many to list, so check it out for yourself!! And you’ll want to pop into the reviews section too – multiple customers gave feedback on amazing customer service, something that’s essential when choosing the best video baby monitor.

The budget-friendly best baby video monitor with a parent unit:

Once I shifted goals to saving money, as opposed to getting the best out there, my standards dropped. I scoured many products for those whose complaints were simply on par with decreased quality due to decreased price.

The one that I felt had the best balance of save vs. still good enough was the incoSKY one. It’ll do the job for more short-term use, for an older child, or if you’re not too picky. So why’d I choose it? It works without a lot of bells and whistles. And while at this price point you WILL need to make some compromises, these are the ones you may be willing to make.

Some bullet points:

• It has a star light projector that projects stars on your ceiling
• It features talk-back so you can sooth your baby, and it can also play lullabies.
• It does not pan and zoom remotely – it actually has no zoom feature at all
• It’s limited to a single camera – you can’t connect additional ones
• There’s a perk to paying less: it’s small enough it can probably even fit in  your pocket!
• The screen quality works but doesn’t compare to higher end models
• Reviewers reported low battery life  as well as a lag, and poor viewing angles

This budget pick for the best video baby monitors seems to have a good percentage of satisfied customers, and downvotes for the right reasons.

The Best Video Baby Monitor that connects to your iPhone or Smartphone via WiFi:

Pros of video baby monitors that connect to you phone:

• Remote viewing: many of these double as a nanny cam and allow you to view your baby remotely by viewing over the cloud.
• Most phones have better displays than baby monitor parent units, so with the right camera you get a clearer picture
• Many of them offer the ability to record your baby or take photos
• App features: many of these offer various extra functions through the apps – check your cameras features list before purchasing.

Cons of IP video baby monitors with no parent unit:

• There are security concerns with others being able to access your camera. Make sure you use secure WiFi passwords always.
• Typically, IP cameras have some lag time/gap time between the event and when it shows on your camera
• I personally find it annoying to use my phone as a baby monitor. It drains the battery if I keep my screen on. It takes up precious space on my phone (I’ve only recently switched to a phone with decent internal memory.)

The top rated best WIFI video baby monitor: The Nanit

To be honest, it wasn’t easy to choose which best video baby monitor to put in the “top rated” spot – there are so many new and emerging ones that the ones with top reviews don’t have THAT many. But reading through the reviews on each, I chose the Nanit Smart Baby Monitor because users seemed to consistently love it.
 

 

The crisp, clear overhead view results from the “showerhead” design and is just one of the reasons that reviewers have made statements such as “Buy this one, Momma. Yes. This one.”

Some cool features:

• The showerhead design allows you a direct view into baby’s crib – by far my favorite way to mount a baby monitor. It extends out more than others, making it the perfect pick for that overhead view.
• Built-in nightlight
• Temperature and humidity sensors allow you to monitor your baby’s comfort level too and make sure that the room isn’t too warm.
• Remote viewing – you can check up on baby even when the sitter is there!
• A cable management system is included – I mean, EVERY baby monitor should have one of these. Cables can be a strangulation hazard and this video baby monitor tackles that head-on!
• The app that manages the Nanit includes insights into your baby’s sleep with scientifically-backed tips as well!
• Background audio means  you can listen without watching, saving your phone’s battery so that you can “wake up” your phone and peek in if you hear something
• It includes local streaming as well so even if your internet is not working, you can continue to monitor that angel.
• Recordings and timelapsed summaries: you can go quickly through hours of sleep or wake time, and not have to skip all the empty crib footage.

Once again, there are so many more features – check out the full list here!

If you’re looking for the remote viewing WiFi capabilities, this is the best video baby monitor according to my research.

Some comparable options in case you’re looking for other features:

• Lollipop for cool design and a lower price point
• Arlo Baby  for a smart home connected option
• Cocoon Cam for a breathing monitor that doesn’t require you to wire up your baby…

The budget-friendly best baby video monitor that connects to your phone:

Once again, when you’re saving you’ll be getting lower quality, less features, and since we’re working with IP cameras here, a poorer quality app.

The LeFun WiFi camera isn’t necessarily designed as a baby monitor (although they do promote it as such). It’s quite inexpensive, and with 3.8 star average reviews at the time this post is being written, it outperforms the budget option with a parent unit.

Some bullet points:

• Reviewers reported decent video quality, although it clearly underperforms in comparison to the high-end alternative.
• It’s got night vision – a must on any video baby monitor!
• It has a talk-back feature so you can soothe your baby through the microphone
• You can add a high capacity micro SD card or store up to 1TB on the cloud giving you generous video storage options for when you’re away
• Reviewers have reported that it’s hard to connect, but once you do it usually stays connected
• As with other inexpensive WiFi video baby monitors, your screen needs to be on – there’s no standby audio-only mode, so your battery will drain fast.
• You do have remote access as well

From the various options I’ve explored, this seems to be the best video baby monitor for WiFi connections if you’re on a tight budget.

So, what is the best video baby monitor?

If you’re the kind of person who needs someone to tell you “just get this one!!” I’m happy to share what I’d do the next time around.

The Infant Optics DXR-8 Video Baby Monitor is hands-down the top-rated, with an extremely high number of positive reviews. I personally prefer NOT to occupy my phone, and the easy connectivity.

I’ll remind you that it’s very easy for a baby monitor to get negative reviews, there’s so much that can go wrong, so for a product like this to have so many positive reviews makes me really trust it.

Many video baby monitors that I’ve tried and have worked for me, although not “like a dream” have ridiculously negative reviews, leading me to believe that the Infant Optics video baby monitor is the king of all monitors.

Which do you think is the best video baby monitor out there? Have you tried and loved something that I didn’t mention? Comment below!

Loved learning about the best video baby monitor? Check out these posts below!

The post Best Video Baby Monitor – WiFi or Parent Unit appeared first on Moms and Crafters.

If a man in your life is about to be a new father, you may want to surprise him with some Dad-to-be gifts – whether it’s to help in the hospital, to ease those nerves, or to help him feel involved.

When I was pregnant with M, I remember my husband feeling a little out of it. While he wasn’t about to complain about it, considering how difficult he saw I was having him, I could tell that he felt disconnected from the whole experience.

Whether it’s a larger gift to celebrate fatherhood, or a small token – the equivalent of buying a coffee or some flowers, these Dad-to-be gifts are the perfect choice.

These gifts are focused on items that are perfect for buying Dad BEFORE the baby is born – although some can work soon after as well.

4 Book Dad-to-be gifts:

1. Dad’s Playbook: Wisdom for Fathers from the Greatest Coaches of All Time by Tom Limbert

Coaches are a lot like Dads. They motivate, love, act tough when need be, discipline and more. This book is a beautiful gift for a Dad-to-be with one hundred inspiring quotes from some of the greatest coaches of all time. There are beautiful photographs accompanying the quotes, and the book makes a lovely conversation piece. 

2. Your Baby’s First Word Will Be DADA by Jimmy Fallon

Jimmy Fallon is one of my favorite talk show hosts, and this book is no exception to his exceptional talent. This is a wonderful book to share with your child, and a great way to ensure that his or her first word will definitely be “Dada”! If you want it to be kid-proof, the book also comes in a board book option. 

3. “My Dad” Memoir Book

This memory books makes for a beautiful keepsake that Dad can hold onto for years before passing it on to his children, grandchildren and, one day, great grandchildren. The pages have interesting questions meant to be thought-provoking and inspiring, for Dad to write down things he wants his offspring to remember. 

4. Be Prepared by Gary Greenberg

 This is the book every new Dad needs; a survival manual! Fatherhood is exciting, but it can scary too, especially for a new father who may not know what to expect. This book dispenses invaluable, no-nonsense advice, including things like creating an emergency diaper, baby-proofing a hotel room and other things that every Dad-to-be needs to know. 

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4 Clothing and Accessories Dad-to-be gifts:

5. Daddy’s Diaper Duty Apron

Get Dad in on the fun! Prepare the Dad-to-be with this fun gag gift at a baby shower, or anytime before baby arrives. The apron comes fully loaded with all the essentials; rubber gloves, clothespins, a face mask, and a baby toy! While it seems like it’s all in fun, Dad is sure to get excited about caring for his new child and will definitely be more willing to pitch in with changing diapers. 

6. Helpful Onesie for Dad

Dad’s going to be dressing the baby too, so why not get him something to help him out a bit? This adorable onesie is not just for the baby to wear, it’s a great to “educate” Dad what all the holes are for! It’s 100% cotton and comes in three colors, white, blue and pink. It also makes a great outfit for baby to wear on his or her first photo-shoot with Daddy. 

7. Dad and Baby Matching T-shirts

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Dad will love bonding with his new baby in these fun, matching tshirts. They make for a perfect photo op, and Dad will love the pizza motif. They work for both boys and girls, and they’ll make a special gift unique to just Dad and baby. 

8. Skin to Skin Dad Wrap Shirt 

Skin to skin bonding is super important for both Dad and baby. It not only promotes bonding, but it’s also very healthy for the baby, and provides emotional support. Mothers and babies usually have this sort of bonding more naturally, but it’s equally important for Dad to bond with his new child in a similar fashion. This terrific t-shirt is comfortable and stylish while enabling Daddy to care for and bond with his newborn. 

6 Baby Gear and other cool Dad-to-be gifts:

9. New Dad Hospital Comfort Gift Basket

Everyone’s always making sure that the new Mom has all her stuff packed for the hospital, but what about the new Dad? Make sure the Dad-to-be has all the essentials, like snacks, caffeine, and some personal care items. There can be a lot of waiting time while Mom is in labor, or staying overnight after the baby is born, so this gift is a great way to make sure that Daddy is taken care of too. 

10. Sound Wave Prints 

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This lovely sound wave print makes for an incredibly unique, thoughtful gift for a new father. These wave prints are custom made using any recording you wish. Record a special message for a new Dad using an ultrasound heartbeat recording, or turn it into your pregnancy announcement and gift it to your partner! It’s a gift that is sure to be treasured forever. 

11. Pregnancy Tracker 

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This beautiful and thoughtful gift is a great way for a Dad-to-be to track his partner’s pregnancies and count down to the arrival of his precious new baby. It can be customized to include any wording you want, and it comes with a handy piece of chalk to mark the weeks left to the exciting due date. It’s a wonderful way to mark the passage of the weeks and months, and Dad will get so excited every time he sees it. 

12. Daddy’s Diaper Bag

This diaper bag has got Daddy’s name stamped all over it. Manly, useful and practical, Dad will love toting this diaper bag around. The diaper bag has interior dividers to keep it as organized as possible and a handy key holder clip so Daddy doesn’t lose anything important. The straps are wide and padded for ultimate comfort. It even has a padded compartment for a tablet. This diaper bag makes a great gift for any Dad-to-be in your life. 

13. Hiking Child Carrier Backpack

If you know a new Dad who has a passion for hiking and camping, this is the ultimate gift. Let Dad bring baby along for the fun! This child carrier was designed specifically for hiking; it will go from baby to toddler and it has a lightweight, balanced frame. It won’t hold just the baby, it also has a duffel bag attached, and a special place for short-term food storage. It also comes with a sun shade and rain guard cover to protect baby from the elements. This hiking child carrier backpack makes for a practical gift that is sure to be remembered. 

14. Dad Shirt Baby Carrier

This unique shirt is a great gift item for a new Dad. It’s a super simple baby carrier, and very easy for Dad to use to calm a newborn. There are no wraps, no tying and no adjusting. All Daddy has to do is slip the baby inside and hold him close. It’s a great way for a new father to bond with his baby and give Mommy a break. Dad may just wear this shirt every single day! 

What are your favorite Dad-to-be gifts? Comment below!

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Loved this? Check out the following helpful gift lists:

• Gifts for the big sibling
• Gifts for babies
• Gifts for Mom
• Favorite places to buy baby clothing online

The post Dad-to-be Gifts he’ll absolutely love! appeared first on Moms and Crafters.

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links.

You know when you’ve been scrolling through Pinterest for a little too long and you get the crafting bug? Maybe you’re not normally a crafty person, but you just know you have to make something right away.

This is the perfect quick and easy craft for even the most crafty challenged moms. It only takes a few minutes to make a DIY washi tape project and today I chose to decorate a mini antibacterial gel bottle.

Make fun washi tape-bombed baby shower favors!

What is washi tape? It’s basically the female version of duct tape. It’s tape that is cute and colorful that you can decorate things with. You can also use it with your stationary supplies to make them super cute.

When I decorated this bottle, I also did a few other things. Because it seriously only takes a few minutes and you already have all this tape out. I also created some DIY washi tape travel shampoo and conditioner bottles and my iphone charger

This is also a great project for the kids to do or help with. My preschooler is practicing with scissors, so she likes to help me cut the tape. Or they can decorate their own antibacterial bottles along with you.

What you need to make these baby shower favors:

• 3 colors of washi tape
• 1 mini antibacterial bottle per baby shower attendee

I found my mini antibacterial bottle in the travel section of Target, but you can find these anywhere. You might even have one in your house already that you can experiment with. These come in so handy to slip in a diaper bag or your purse.

How to make these DIY baby shower favors:

Step 1 – Decide what colors and patterns you want to use.

I really liked this bottle of antibacterial because it was clear. So all I had to do was cover the label and I didn’t have to worry about clashing with colors on the actual bottle. I chose 3 coordinating colors – 2 solids and one pattern.

Step 2 – Start layering your tape.

It’s a good idea to start in the front of your project with the center of a strip of tape. It’s hard to center this stuff and you want to make sure the front looks best. Try to make sure all the seams line up in the back. But if you mess up, don’t worry! You can always pull it off and try again.

That’s it! Yes, these baby shower favors are really as simple as putting tape on a bottle!

This would make a great baby shower favors! I love giving new moms baskets of all the things they don’t even know they will need like lanolin for sore nipples and diapers and wipes travel cases. This would also be a nice personalized item for a gift basket for a new mom.

Once you start thinking of things you can cover with washi tape, you’ll have a list of at least a dozen projects planned in no time. Let me know what you created in the comments.

The post Baby Shower Favors – Washi Tape Hand Sanitizer appeared first on Moms and Crafters.

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links.

The main reason to create a baby registry for second baby is so that you get the gifts you actually need.

Baby registries are great to have, whether you are having a baby shower or now, because they eliminate waste (when done right).

You are going to need some things for your second child that you do NOT still have from  your first, even if you are having another of the same gender. When Baby Y was born, we had M’s clothing for him, but the seasons didn’t always overlap. Baby Y was born in the beginning of Spring, and M in Autumn. At first there was overlap, and then winter came and nothing fit him.

We had some hand-me-downs from his cousin, who was born the same month two years earlier, but was also born three pounds smaller than him… so once again, the seasons didn’t totally overlap. And that doesn’t even touch the issue of clothing that has yellowed in storage.

So you can see that even if your children are both the same gender, you should definitely register for your second child.

People are going to buy you gifts for your second child. Having a registry to point them to will ensure you get what you need and not more junk…

With Baby Y, I registered on Amazon (simply because they have literally everything so I knew I’d find what I wanted. Plus, people like to shop there – as shipping is easy and they know the site well.)

Granted, most of my gifts were not from there, but for the few people who asked, I did have a place to send them. I got a couple of things I really needed and had my completion discount to get the rest. Which brings me to…

Like this? Check out ten questions every pregnant woman should ask.

6 reasons to make a baby registry for second baby:

1. Stock up on diapers –

And other things you still need! Between consumables (like diapers and baby food), filler clothing, that expired car seat and the baby bottles, there are going to be things that are no longer good. Register for those.

2. Get your dream stuff –

Being a mom is hard.

The first go round, you likely registered for all the practical things you knew you didn’t want to buy (or couldn’t). The second go round, make use of your registry to get those few items that you couldn’t even justify registering for the first time – that cool swing you were digging, that travel high chair or baby lounge…

3. Get stuff for the big sibling –

If you don’t need much for the baby, you can take advantage of the registry to get things for the potentially jealous big sibling. For ideas, check my list of big sibling gift ideas.

This includes not only jealousy-busting goodies, but also highly entertaining toys to gain mom some sanity.

4. Get free samples –

We all know that baby registries come with some awesome free samples, and that applies the second go round too!
When I registered on Amazon for Baby Y, did a free Amazon Family free trial too (which gets you a discount on diapers, by the way), and got a box of goodies… including full sized things like a pacifier, a baby hat, and more!
 

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5. Get your completion discount –

Even if you DON’T anticipate that anyone will buy from your registry, and you don’t plan to have a baby shower, it’s worth registering just for the completion discount. In case you’re unfamiliar with the term, a completion discount is a discount code that the store you registered at sends you to buy things off your registry. With an Amazon baby registry I believe it’s between 10-15% (that can save you a nice chunk of cash off the double stroller!)

Which brings me to…

6. Get gear for two –

If you have a toddler, you’ll likely still need some of your baby gear for her.

Register for a double stroller or a buggy board, an additional convertible car seat (since your older child likely still needs it), or even a baby carrier so that you can wear one while pushing the other! Many of these cost a nice chunk of cash, making your completion discount more handy.

Want to know what to put on it? Find out what second-time moms need here!

Did you make a baby registry for your second baby? Which tips do you have to share? Comment below!

The post Should You Have a Baby Registry for Second Baby? appeared first on Moms and Crafters.

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links.

When it comes to baby gifts, personal is so much more meaningful. But sometimes a gift that’s too personalized can be less useful, as it can’t be passed down.

That’s where DIY comes in. Sometimes it’s about saving a few dollars, but sometimes it’s just about adding that unique touch.

I assembled a list of the best baby toys you can purchase a while ago, but this list is for those of you who prefer to make it yourselves!

DIY BABY TOYS:

Copyright: All of the images for the crafts below were used with the permissions of the respective bloggers for the purpose of this post. Click on the image for the full tutorial. 

I have created a square and vertical image for your convenience for sharing these DIY baby gifts. Please use the first or last image in this post when sharing and not one of the individual photos below, out of respect for the creators’ copyrights.

1. Handmade wood burned alphabet blocks are perfect to display in a nursery! You can do the baby’s initials, ABC (as I did), or make a complete set! If you want to go in-between you can make number blocks instead. All you need is wooden blocks, a simple woodburning tool, and some paints! Click on the image for the full tutorial!

2. This DIY Ombre Abacus by Lovely Indeed is modern and trendy! Find out the recipient’s nursery colors in advance and make it to match.

3. Create a worldly scene with a  DIY Glitter Globe Mobile by Delineate Your Dwelling. That little bit of glitter adds a fun touch to something that would otherwise be slightly too serious for a nursery.

4. You can match this tassel and pompom mobile to any color scheme, and switch it up as needed. It hangs from sturdy dowels, and the fluffy yarn adds a warm touch.

5. The beautiful presentation of this  Tactile Ribbon-Pull Tugging Toy by The Imagination Tree makes it perfect for gifting!

6. Stuffed Felt Letters by Buggy and Buddy will double over for alphabet learning later on in life, but will also serve as a favorite first toy for baby.

7. Turn an old sock into a rattle with this  Sock Animal Rattle Tutorial by Homemade by Jill. I think it’s perfectly adorable, so if you’re up to doing a bit of sewing, hop right in! (See what I did there…?)

8. Tag loveys are super popular now as they provide a fun sensory experience from day one. But did you know how easy it is to make one? Make an Easy Tag Blanket by One Artsy Mama that is sure to become baby’s new security blanket!

9. This DIY Fine Motor Stacking Toy for Babies and Toddlers by The Imagination Tree at first glance seems quite complex. But it’s not! You just need to check out what she used to create the perfect combination that works as a great stacking toy.

10. Learn How to Make a Rainbow Baby Toy with an easy tutorial by Swoodson Says. The simple design is perfect for little eyes, and the texture is delightful for little hands.

11. Babies don’t see all colors at once, and so toys featuring blacks, whites and reds are perfect for starters. This Soft and Smiley Baby Toy by Kids Activities Blog is great starting from age newborn! Bonus: sew in a loop of ribbon at the top, attach a toy link, and you can hang it from  your baby’s car seat, stroller, or play gym!

12. Young toddlers will love these Peek-a-boo Boxes by The Stay-at-Home Mom Survival Guide!

13. Babies love to explore textures, and this DIY Sensory Cube by Teaching Mama has plenty of that! It’s also a great way to use up scraps from different projects.

14. Make DIY Teether Extenders by Living Montessori Now to upgrade a simple teether that you are gifting. It’s perfect for babies who love to chew on necklaces (and which baby doesn’t?!)

As you can see, there are so many amazing DIY baby toys out there that you DON’T need crazy skills to make!

I hope you’ve found one that makes the perfect DIY gift, even if it’s a gift for your own baby.

Which DIY baby toys have you made? Comment below!

The post 14 DIY Baby Toys appeared first on Moms and Crafters.

A  new baby is exciting, but can be expensive. One of my favorite ways to save on a new baby is by TELLING people which gifts to buy instead of letting them choose. That way you cover more of what you want and need, and get fewer items in the following categories:

• The “ridiculously overpriced outfit – shoulda just gotten me a whole layette package” category.
• The “my sister-in-law would love that but it totally doesn’t fit my lifestyle” category.
• The “I’m sure some people think it’s cute but I absolutely hate it” category.
• And of course, the “Cool, but I already have it” category.

So that’s WHY you should register. 

Before I tackle WHAT to put on your baby registry, let’s handle the WHERE to register angle.

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links.

Where to start a baby registry:

With my first, I registered in a few places – mainly because of the free gift bags some stores will give, and to get the completion discount at a variety of stores… So I got to experience a few different styles. With my second, I went straight to Amazon. 

(A completion discount is simply a coupon to receive any of the remaining items on your registry at a discounted rate.)

Here are a few top choices and why I like them.

• Amazon Baby Registry: As you can see I went straight here this time for a few reasons: 1. They have EVERYTHING and EVERYONE shops there. It’s easy. Shipping is fast. Making it easy for others to shop means more people will purchase from my registry. 
  At first, I was frustrated that they don’t offer a gift bag (I love the samples, and definitely chose some of my favorite brands based on those.) And then they actually sent me a sample box in the end (shipped to my home – other stores make you pick it up)! It had a bottle and pacifier in it among other things. They offer a completion discount of 10% to regular members and 15% to Prime members (please note: this can change at any time.) 
• BuyBuyBaby: This may be a personal preference, but I LOVE this store. People tend to have 20% off coupons valid on one item (as it’s a sister store to Bed Bath & Beyond), so you might get a better gift for their budget. They have all the top brands and then some, along with amazing resources. They have an amazing gift bag when you register. They send you a completion discount offer twice for use on anything remaining in your registry. And finally, they have a price-match guarantee (which only helps if you have a savvy shopper buying for you.
• Target: With Target, selection is more limited, but they still have most top brands available. People know the store, they shop there anyway, and prices are competitive. You can pick up a coupon booklet and gift bag once you’ve registered – it has in it some generous coupons and decent samples. Get a 15% completion discount.
• Babies R Us: Again, you’ll find most top brands here, including some exclusive products. You get rewards points on purchases made from your registry if you join their rewards program (5-10%). And we got a fun gift bag too.
• Burlington Coat Factory’s Baby Depot offers a registry. The biggest perk: budget prices so there’s more bang for your buck…

There are more places to register (WalMart, Burlington Coat Factory’s BabyDepot) but we didn’t bother with those simply because we either didn’t like their selection or didn’t get to it.

As I mentioned, we just went straight to Amazon, because it made the most sense.

What to put on your baby registry:

Here’s where things get stickier: with the WHAT angle of your registry. I’ve created this handy list of factors to figure in when you register, along with separate lists for various categories.

• Lifestyle: does this fit in with my lifestyle needs? For example, a jogging stroller is cool if you exercise a lot and have space for an extra stroller, but if you don’t, you’ll want something more practical (see the gear guide.)
• Price: While you might not be buying it, others will be. Know who your buyers are. If you don’t have anyone likely to buy you a high ticket item, unless you plan to buy it yourself with your completion discount, register for the more affordable version.
• Variety: Try to have a good variety of prices so that there’s something for everyone. Even if no one is going to buy you a two dollar pair of socks, they might throw it in with a cute outfit to meet their budget.
• Priority: If you’re going to have a huge baby shower, you might want to register for lots of “nice-to-haves” among your “must-haves”. But if you’ll just have a few friends and family members asking what you need, have the top priority items listed in your registry. Amazon allows you to assign priority to items, which is another perk I went for.

What to put on your baby registry by category:

I’ve been working on this list for… forever. Each category can be explored on its own by clicking  the image. You will be taken to a new list with general product recommendations, specific brands I like, and of course tips for choosing. Good luck!

Pregnancy and maternity:

Essentials: feeding, care, and more!

Baby gear essentials and reviews

Toys and books for babies:

Baby clothing essentials and favorite brands:

Big sibling gift ideas:

Choosing which diapers are best for you

I included more information in this guide for choosing brands than exactly what to register for. Definitely register for at least one package of size Newborn, and a couple size ones. Plus, add in a few packs of wipes.

As you’ll see, and I’ve mentioned it many times in each of these guides, there is no one-size-fits-all formua for what to put in your baby registry. But with the right considerations in mind, and a general idea of what works, I hope you’ll have a successful registry.

What are your tips for what to put in your baby registry? Do you have any questions about specific products? Comment below!

The post What to put on your baby registry appeared first on Moms and Crafters.

When my baby was born, I went straight to my sister and asked her which diapers she used. I stuck with one brand for a while, until it disappointed me. I tried a few new brands. I’ve discovered many things along the way, and here are some tips and feedback.

This is technically a separate section of my baby registry guide, dedicated only to diapers.

5 Tips for finding the best diapers for your baby:

1. Start with smaller packages in case you don’t like a brand.
2. Find out if you can order samples from a specific brand. (Read: 21 Freebies for Moms)
3. Fit is a huge factor. Keep in mind that each child is different, boys will be different from girls, and things can change as your child grows.
4. You don’t need to have one favorite! You might prefer one for night, one for day, one for play…
5. Cheaper doesn’t always save you more if you need to change more frequently or wash more clothing.

The best natural diapers:

Natural diapers are disposable diapers that simply contain fewer chemicals. M has sensitive skin, so we’ve gone with these a few times. They cost more but are better for your baby and for the environment, if you can afford it.

• The Honest Company – It is my all-time favorite brand and I buy it when I can. Their prints are adorable and the quality is great, even for a water-guzzling toddler overnight! It’s not very cheap, but you can save with a subscription. You can easily cancel your subscription if you need, or adjust the date your next package arrives. If you don’t like subscriptions you can purchase by the package.
• Parasol – This new brand of natural diapers is getting rave reviews. It seems to be taking things up a notch and a  higher end product. You can order a free trial packet and see if it’s for you.
• 7th Generation – I’ve used these a few times and they are great as well.

The best diapers from big brands:

The major brands you grew up on or you’re used to hearing can be great options too. Amazon tends to have good deals, especially for Amazon Family members (you can get a free trial), with discounts for subscribing and digital coupons you can clip. I’ve gotten samples of these in baby registry bags and by contacting the brand.

• Huggies – A top brand, the quality on Huggies never failed me. My exact line preference changed along with my babies and their needs as they developed.
• Pampers – These do well as far as “big brand diapers” are concerned. The quality is fantastic, and the fit great. As far as which line is concerned: once again I find that that really changed along with my baby. It’s the brand I was able to rely on.
• Luvs – This is far from my favorite and I’m listing it here for the sake of balancing my feedback. I found it to be too plastic-y on the outside and less breathable. I know some people who enjoy it, and it’s cheaper than most others, but I’d recommend you try it before you buy – either by asking a friend for a sample, or by reaching out to the brand.

The best diapers from store brands and private labels:

Private labels don’t need to mean bad. I haven’t tried that many, but here’s what I’ve learned from what I did try. Since these are mainly available on the store’s channels, it’s harder to find samples, coupons, and discounts such as the Amazon Family one. However, since the retailer is “closer to the source”, pricing tends to be competitive.

• Up & Up (Target) – I’ve used these a lot for good reason. The quality is great. Not as good as my top brands but great nontheless. Their prices are among the most competitive. If you sign up for a Red Card (go for the debit if you don’t want another credit card) you get 5% off all your purchases and free shipping. They have frequent sales, Target Cartwheel offers, and gift card deals going on with their diapers (including big label diapers) and since their store brand diaper’s prices start pretty low, the bottom line is very affordable. (On size 5 and 6 I tend to pay in the 16-17 cents/diaper range)
• Kirkland (Costco) – The quality is also good but the pricing not as competitive as other store brands. We’ve ended up just buying Huggies when purchasing at Costco, but the quality is definitely good enough.
• Parent’s Choice (Walmart) – I purchased this once, and it really was not my favorite. If you’re really looking to save as much as you can, these can work but I personally found them to be leaky and not the best quality.

5 tips for helping you save on baby diapers:

1. Subscribe and save – many websites, including The Honest Company, Target, and Amazon give you the option to subscribe and receive diapers regularly for a discount. If you know that you are brand-loyal and will stay on top of sizing, this is a great way to save.
2. Credit/debit cards – some brands (such as Target’s Red Card) offer a discount if you use their credit card. Save on gas as well by not needing to drive out to buy diapers with free shipping offers.
3. Try before you buy – order samples (brands such as The Honest Company and Parasol offer sample packs – just pay shipping)  OR buy singles off a friend. Sometimes you can even reach out to a brand for a sample or two. This way you know you like it before you stock up and end up with diapers you won’t use.
4. Scour for coupons – Target has a coupon center, plus their Cartwheel app with frequent discounts on their store brand. You can find regular coupons for some of the big labels on coupons.com.
5. Buy in bulk –  Buying larger size packages can DEFINITELY allow you to save, as long as you’re on top of sizing. Babies don’t outgrow diapers overnight, so usually you’ll notice you’re getting close and still be able to finish the size. Some stores (read: Target) have discounts for buying more than one box too.

What are the best diapers in your opinion – which do you use? Which brands do you like, dislike, have what to share about? Any tips on saving, or finding the right one? Join the discussion and comment below!

The post The Best Diapers: Which diapers to choose for a new baby appeared first on Moms and Crafters.

While sibling jealousy is far from a surprise, it still needs to be thought of and tackled way in advance. 

I think that M took the hardest hit with my pregnancy (after me, of course…) First, there’s pregnancy brain. Today marks a week straight that I forgot to give him his morning sippy cup with milk. Then, there’s my inability to hold him, the skimpier dinners, the tired mornings…

All that, and the baby isn’t even here yet!

Disclosure: I did receive some samples from brands for coverage. Some of the products on this list include those samples which I have tested and enjoyed, and some are products I purchased and received as gifts, love, and chose to feature. In the interest of full transparency, I have marked items that I received from brands with an asterisk. 

All of these products are “tried and true” in my experience. Nevertheless, I am not otherwise affiliated with these brands and cannot take responsibility for quality, fulfillment, or anything else that’s in their hands. 

This post contains affiliate links.

While having my second child, the main focus of my registry is actually the big sibling. I already have much of what I need, and most people who buy outside of my registry will likely buy for the new baby. So my registry focuses mostly on big sibling gifts.

This list of big sibling gifts focuses on the toddler-preschool age category, and obviously, needs will vary from child to child. I’ve also split it into three categories: things that your toddler will love but is more practical in that it frees up the gear you still use for the baby, highly entertaining toys that will keep your toddler occupied during the time that Mommy’s not really there (or not all there…), and “big sibling” specific items that either teach or help alleviate jealousy. In the last section, I added some cute big sibling gifts that don’t necessarily fit (and are maybe more for mom than the sibling) but are still cute.

Big Sibling Gifts to free up gear for baby:

While your toddler might be long done with certain things – like the bassinet – there are others that she might still be using. Replace it with a fun gift in advance of when the baby will need it, a “big kid” version, instead of purchasing doubles.

• Little Tikes Perfect Fit 4-in-1 Trike*: Not always is a double stroller practical (though you should definitely try for one), and giving the big sibling more independence is a great idea. We started M already on this 4-in-1 trike from Little Tikes and he already prefers it over the stroller. It transitions seamlessly into a trike, so it’s an exciting toy for him too! It also includes some “stroller-like perks” for me – such as a cupholder/parent tray and a snack tray for M.
  
• A table booster seat: M is already showing his independence as I just mentioned, and likes to sit at the table… but he doesn’t quite reach. While baby won’t be needing his high chair for another half year or so, it’s smart to empty it in advance, so that he shouldn’t go nuts when baby takes it over. I’ve registered for this one as per some friend’s recommendations, since it’s being used for a toddler.
• BubbleBum Car Booster Seat*: You’re going to need another car seat. If you have two cars, you’ll need two. If you have a four-year-old or older, the BubbeBum car booster seat is perfect – because it’s portable, easy to transfer from car to car, and affordable. It’s inflatable and even comes with a carry bag so that you can have it handy anywhere.
  
• Fun toddder bed: If you’re moving your toddler out of the crib to free it for baby, a fun toddler bed is a perfect solution. Make sure to do the switch in advance (right after baby is born is a perfect time, while baby is still sleeping in a bassinet. Give your toddler time to “forget/dispossess” the crib…)

Big Sibling Gifts to entertain while Mommy’s out or bedridden:

When looking for toys to buy a toddler after a baby’s born, go for things that are extra-entertaining – the kinds that will allow your tot to play while mom lies down and watches. Building toys are my favorites, and the more variety (to switch it up) the better, but there are more options too.

• Magformers*: These toys are super popular for a reason, and my son can’t get enough! They are perfect for independent play while mom supervises from the couch. We find that the open form of Magformers are so much easier for young hands to handle, and the possibilities are truly endless. It’s also the kind of toy that will grow with your child. Go for a great starter set, which can be expanded later on as well.
  
• Arshiner keyboard and drums*: M is obsessed with music and I know already that he will be asking that I turn some on every  minute when the baby comes. This inexpensive toy piano from Arshiner is not only fun for making his own music, but it also allows him to play some fun, familiar tunes. It’s sold via Amazon so if you register there, you can add it right to your registry. 
  
• Learning tablet: I know that there will be screen time, and I believe that it’s more than appropriate to offer that when needed. It’s not about if you do it – it’s about HOW you do it! The Little Scholar Learning Tablet by School Zone is loaded with educational games, apps, books, flashcards, and more. It’s secure, and basically impossible for my son to figure out the password to hack into the wifi/parental controls. It comes with a bumper case for protection. We are both in love with this.
• HABA My First Ball Track*: HABA is a favorite of mine for quality wooden toys, but when it comes to the “highly-entertaining” category, I’m so glad I found this toy from them! Your tot will have a blast configuring and reconfiguring this ball track so that it “works”. M loves slides, balls, and building toys, and this one also throws in a bit of practical engineering – which is right up his alley. 
  
• Sensory bin: While sensory play can be a tad messy, it can be so entertaining that it might be worth the quick sweep. With little time to create your own, having premade ones can be a lifesaver. We have one with water beads that M has been enjoying for a while, and one with clean sand that we’re saving for when baby comes.
• Lego Duplo*: What better time to start M’s Lego stash than now? Since he’s little, we’re starting with Duplo as it’s perfect for his age range. Their fun themed sets are perfect even for kids who already have a stash, as refreshing it with new options makes it more fun and entertaining. The My First Playhouse doubles over as pretend play for toddlers. Creative Animals allow your animal lover to get creative and create fun creatures.  This is a toy that entertains M for hours, and will be a true lifesaver when baby comes, making it a must-have for your big sibling gifts.
  
• Play dough – M can be entertained for hours by play dough. It’s a relatively mess-free activity, and a fun gift set can go a long way.

Big sibling gifts to help with jealousy:

While all of the above big sibling gifts help with jealousy (with all the gifts baby gets…), these are targeted directly toward educating about the new baby. I’ve also added in some “just like baby” gifts for the sibling who doesn’t go for the whole nurturing thing…

• A doll and accessories: Who says boys can’t play with dolls? As a matter of fact, with a new baby on the way, a doll is a perfect way to let your son or daughter have his or her own “baby.” It not only gives your child an important role to play, but it also teaches care and nurturing hands-on.  Top priority on my own baby registry is a doll, a doll stroller, some toy baby gear, a doll care package, and even some extra clothing. It’s not so easy finding ones that aren’t hot pink (not that it REALLY matters, but M does prefer blue, green, or even dark purple), but I’ve linked to some for you above in case you’re also looking for a boy (the girl mamas here will have it easier…) He’s going to be a Daddy to his own baby, and we’ll do everything we can to make him feel special.
• Incredibundles*: They are one of my favorite brands for gift-giving, and perfect for the big sibling! You can either try one of their premade bundles, or put together your own. You get a nice gift package, with a reusable box, and fun gift-ready packaging. This bundle is perfect for the big sibling. It includes a super soft plush that M is obsessed with (he even went to take his nap nicely because he got to bring “baby bear” with him!) and a big sibling book which is a perfect way to bring in the new baby.
  
• Big sibling books: Books that teach about big sibling-hood are a great way to teach about a new baby! Make sure to chat about the book and learn the right lessons as you read them… Some titles to start with: 15 Things Not to Do with a Baby,  My New Baby, The New Baby (Little Critter), and The Berenstain Bears’ New Baby.
• Matching outfits: If the big sibling might be jealous with all the adorable new outfits the baby gets, why not match ’em up? Tea Collection is one of my favorite places for matching outfits. Check out Etsy if you want to work it across genders. You can check my list of best places to get baby clothing online for more ideas.
• Big sibling tee: Or, grab a top special for the big brother or sister, with a special message regarding his or her new status.

And finally, my favorite gift – especially for older siblings: A big sibling journal for them to mark down memories, paste photos and more! It’s the perfect length, and attainable, fillable for kids who don’t love to write too. It’s full of meaningful things to jot down.

I’ve made it easier for you to shop some big sibling gifts inspired by this post! Just scroll through the widget below and click to see more information.

What are your top picks for big sibling gifts? Any other advice to share with moms-to-be?

The post Big Sibling Gifts for when your new baby arrives appeared first on Moms and Crafters.

Because clothing is seasonal and very dependent on personal taste, I didn’t want to feature exact outfits here. I’ve focused on the best baby clothing brands, what each one is good for, with some actual suggestions to get you started.

This segment of my baby guide is supposed to help both new moms and those buying for new moms. I’ve divided it into a few categories, so that I can add notes and tips specific for each category. Most of these shops are great for a few categories, but best for one.

Disclosure: I did receive some samples from brands for coverage. Some of the products on this list include those samples which I have tested and enjoyed, and some are products I purchased and received as gifts, love, and chose to feature. In the interest of full transparency, I have marked items that I received from brands with an asterisk. 

All of these products are “tried and true” in my experience. Nevertheless, I am not otherwise affiliated with these brands and cannot take responsibility for quality, fulfillment, or anything else that’s in their hands. 

This post contains affiliate links.

Best Baby Clothing Brands and Sites for Basic Layette and Outfits:

When buying layette as a gift, you can bundle together a few basics in a pretty basket (that can be repurposed for organization). Focus on cute products that are also practical, or include a few basics with a cute outfit. 

Zutano* – My favorite thing about this brand is their bright colors and fun prints. Zutano uses these to create stylish outfits that are still comfortable. These vivid prints also make their layette unique and a fun break from the typical pastels. This fun elephant and stripe coordinate beautifully in both girl and boy prints. The elephant comes in a huge variety of layette options (featured here are the blanket and gown) in pink and blue, and the booties come in pink, blue, and lime stripes to coordinate with either. Solids and coordinating prints in a hat complete a perfect layette/homecoming ensemble that includes some key essentials.

Zulily – Daily sales in a huge variety of categories makes this website unique. You’ll find everything from small brands to major, basics to dress wear, and everything in-between. The “family focus” of this sale site makes it perfect for baby clothing – there will always be at least a few baby clothing sales each day to choose from. Their other focuses are maternity, toys, and kids clothing.

Old Navy / Gap – You’ll find both unique bodysuits, and fun jeans and shirts on both of these sister brand websites. 

Target – Both major brands such as Carters and Gerber and Target’s own label Circo are affordable and readily available here. I have found it more worthwhile to purchase the major brands here than on the brand’s own sites – both because of shipping practically (low minimum shipping costs, the ability to combine shipping with household essentials, etc) and because their prices are much more competitive. You can even search their baby registry section to see if the recipient has registered for anything there (or register there for your own baby).

Amazon – You’ll find a huge selection from major brands, small brands, anonymous brands, and more. You can also register for baby clothing there or search to see if someone else has registered.

Best Baby Clothing Brands for Cute Outfits & Accessories:

When it comes to getting a cute outfit, you simply can’t go wrong. You can pair a few accessories, create a mix-n-match bundle, or choose a slightly better brand to turn it into a beautiful gift. If you are registering, go for things that are easy to mix-n-match.

Otium Brands* – Otium Brands has created a unique solution to a common problem: cold toes. Socks tend to fall off, and so they have created pants and leggings for babies with socks built in. The Cozee Pants actually have a full set of footie pants attached and the Cozee Toes have attached socks. So if you’re like me and love to dress your babies in jeans and cute accessories, but want them to be comfortable and warm, this is an amazing solution.

Jojo Maman BeBe – Hailing from the United Kingdom, and now gracing the U.S. with their presence, this brand features cute dress-up solutions for every day. They also have adorable accessories, and their clothing is top quality.

Gymboree /Crazy 8 – I love the style of these two sister brands – fun, playful, and affordable!

Tea Collection – one of my favorite baby clothing brand that’s a bit more of a “splurge” for me, Tea Collection features beautiful clothing inspired by places around the globe. The design is amazing, the quality superior, and the variety is awesome. Even their simple rompers are adorable.

Best Baby Clothing Brands and Sites for Luxury and Dresswear

If you want to buy something practical but really nice, better clothing is a great way to go! It’s the type of thing a new mom might never allow herself to splurge on, but will still be practical and useful.

Feltman Brothers* If you love a touch of vintage, as I do, Feltman Brothers was created for you! They feature all the little charm that seems to be lost today, including delicate pin tucks, rosettes, and, of course. classy sweaters for both boys and girls. Their designs are timeless and classic, making them perfect for handing down from sibling to sibling, and for special occasions.

Ralph Lauren – If you love the brand for adult clothing, you’ll love them even more for baby clothing! They have beautiful gift baskets, along with essentials, classy knits, and adorable outfits. You’ll find more affordable basics alongside luxurious cashmere for variety.

Janie & Jack – Another great source of more upscale dress wear, Janie & Jack features dressed-up, trendy outfits.

buy buy BABY – also has a great selection of dress wear!

What are your best baby clothing brands and sites? Comment below!

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