The Madeline Backpack by Bumble Bags

A Diaper Bag For Your Back

We here at Mama Speaks know bags. Diaper bags, shopping bags, totes and more. We are connoisseurs. But I have a little secret for you all- I, myself, have never really used a diaper bag. I never thought I had much to carry- and if I did, it made more sense to stuff all of my little one's stuff into my bag. Ok, so maybe that was just a big mess, but it worked for me. Sort of. Maybe it's that we always traveled by sling and actually carrying a bag was a challenge? But oh my, how times have changed.

I now have a busy toddler who is, more often than not, on his feet or sitting in the stroller. And with 2 year old snack attacks and our full reliance on undies over diapers, I definitely need to be sure I have a full arsenal of supplies ready at a moments notice. Supplies that I couldn't consolidate to my bag if I wanted to. I've found that the Madeline Backpack from Bumble Bags [$116] is just what I've never known I needed. The butter soft, perfectly sized bag is great for a day on the go, with pockets and compartments that are just right for stashing snacks, drinks or an extra set of clothes. One of my favorite features is that in true backpack style the whole bag zips closed meaning when it inevitably takes a spill down your enormous flight of stairs (not that this happened to me, or anything) the contents may get all shook up, but at least they'll stay contained.

The Madeline Backpack also touts some sweet stroller straps so that when you're ready to take it off your back you can easily attach it in a still functional place (not that you'll want to take it off, because you'll barely know it's there). With six prints to choose from I'm sure you'll find the style that's right for you and don't worry about messing up the pretty paisley with baby goo, you can toss the whole bag in the washing machine and pull it out good as new.

Win it!
We're giving away 10 (yes, ten!) Bib and Cloth sets from Bumble Bags [$28 each]! To enter, email giveaways[at]mamaspeaks.com with Bumble as you subject. Let us know what you favoite Madeline Backpack print is and if you'd like a set in Pink, Lime or Blue if you win. Good luck!

Want it?
Enter code "affiliate" for 10% Bumble Bags at Baby Browns.

Kushies

Koolest Toys Around

 

My son sticks everything in his mouth, and I mean everything! He doesn’t hesitate to grab a stinky shoe, the cat’s food, or my iPhone (ah!) and cover it with his wonderful baby slobber. Yet, I have had a hard time finding something that is meant to go in his mouth that he actually wants to put in there. So, when I discovered Canadian-based Kushies and their fun and eclectic line of toys, I knew we were in business.

 

The Zolo Linko – Clip Together Teether & Toys [$32] is one of the coolest looking toys I have seen in a long time. It consists of 11 separate pieces that your little one can play with individually or link them together for a cluster of colorful fun. Each section has a different texture and shape to it to stimulate baby’s senses, with his hands, eyes, or mouth.

 

Aside from my new favorite toys, Kushies also has a wide variety of other baby related products.  From the  the Splish Splash Rain Jacket and Pant Set [$47] to the Swimsuit Diapers [$11]. Both come in bright colors and prints, that make sure your little guy or gal stands out, whether  jumping in a puddle or playing in the sand. It makes me long even more for the winter to hurry up and end already and bring on the April showers and some Summer days.

-Jen

Win it!
We're giving away a Shangrila Multi-Sensory Activity Mat and Portico Archway Accessory [$120]! One runner-up will a hooded-towel and booties set [$24]. To enter, send an email to giveaways[at]mamaspeaks.com by midnight November 30 with Kushies as your subject.

Happy Heiny's Diapers

The Happiest Heiny on the Block

After almost 2 years I feel like I'm finally getting a grasp on this cloth diapering thing. Of course I would now that my son is nearly through with them. I started out pretty primitive with prefolds and covers, but it seems that with every new line I try, these things just keep on getting better!

Not new on the market, but new in my house are Happy Heiny's, and they live up to their name! The custom milled fleece makes for the softest diaper I've ever touched and it remains just as snuggly wash, after wash, after wash. Their nappies also don't have leg casings which means no irritating red marks on those chubby little thighs.

Our current favorite is the pocket diaper (which comes in black and a skull print I might add) but that might change with Happy Heiny's new one sized diaper on the scene. The series of snaps and cross over tabs allow one diaper to easily grow with your babe from birth on up to 35 pounds. Seriously, it's like magic.

What we love best is that while Happy Heiny's are one of the largest manufacturers of the modern reusable diaper all of their diapers are made in the US by Mama's working from home. Knowing that I'm supporting Mama's like me, taking it easy on the environment and making at least one little heiny happier is just enough to make my day.

Win it!
We have a Happy Heiny's Pocket Diaper (neutral yellow, size large) for one of you to try! To enter, email review[at]mamaspeaks.com by midnight November 09 with Happy Heiny's as your subject.

Time For A Change? Put That Booty On A Pedestal

If you live in a house with more than one room it seems there's always the problem of where to change the baby. Sure there's that lovely padded, well stocked changing palace, but it's in the bedroom. Upstairs. And this baby can't make it through that flight.

I felt like I was always dumping diapers in random rooms and quickly discovered that a "simple" diaper change on the couch or the floor is anything but. Seriously, the next time they open submissions for new Olympic sports I'm first in line. Eventually I bought an extra one those cheap foam pads for down stairs, but it was an eyesore that got tripped over more that it got changed on.

Aren't you glad us mom's think alike? Also, tired of the diapering Olympics, mama Sue Wong set out to find a solution and ended up inventing the Ubi Modern changing table [$90]. This baby is make you gasp gorgeous, and best of all it delivers. The low slung, bent plywood table gets baby off the floor and positioned perfectly for a change. The retro-mod (is that an oxymoron?) fabric selection is easy on the eyes, a breeze to clean and resistant to germs.

Thanks to the belly buckle baby won't be going anywhere and the fastener strips keep will keep that fresh diaper where it's supposed to be. The verdict is still out on the deluxe version's [$119] spring loaded diaper dispenser,  but we're pretty sure we're sold.

Win it!
Who wants one? We have one Ubi changing table for one of you! Send an email to reviews@mamaspeaks[dot]com by midnight October 24 and let us know what fabrics are available. We'll choose one winner at random and your table will ship directly early December.

Cloth Confusion? A Diaper Guide

Cloth diapering is best for the environment. Some would say it's best for your babies bum, but is it best for you, Mama? Many of us shy away from the cloth scene worried about laundry and stink and where to begin. There are so many cloth diapers out there it's easy to get overwhelmed before you get started. All-in-one's, prefolds, pockets, are there pins and liners and stinky pails to be fussed with?

Our guide to the world of cloth gives you a sneak peak at the best of what's out there for baby bottom.

All-in-One (AIO's) - A completely fitted diaper with a waterproof outer, these are the closest thing to disposables. No folding or stuffing required, but they're also the most expensive option.

The PVC, phalate and lead free, made in the USA, AIO's available from Bumkins are a favorite. While one of the priciest at $25, the 6 interior layers of cozy flannel are pure luxury. And the extra "air flow panel" makes laundering a breeze.

Fitted Diaper - Similar to disposables, these have a contoured shape, gathered legs and fasten with snaps or velcro. Fitted diapers require a separate water proof diaper cover.

Kushies Classic [$8] are a great option. With oh, so soft cotton and a large range of solids and prints you'll find one you love. The patented interior flap for extra absorbancy makes dumping solids mess free.

Pocket Diapers - The newest thing to hit the cloth diapering world. These are similar to an AIO but have a pocket to slip in an absorbent insert. The waterproof outer layer makes these another easy option for diapering on the run.

It's no surprise that Fuzzi Bunz ($18), the first pocket diapers, are still the best. Super soft with a whispery outer layer, easy to stuff- super absorbent insert and adjustable fastening system that ensures all babies get a leak free fit, make these top notch. We also like the trim underwear like fit. In fact, our sometime diaper wearing toddler likes to slip these on just like undies when we need to run.

Prefold - The cheapest option in cloth diapering. A rectangular cloth (more absorbant in the middle) is folded to fit. Prefolds can be pinned or fastened on alone or folded and tucked inside a cover.

Our fav? Bummis can't be beat. Their unbleached cotton prefolds quilt up beautifully and the Whisper Wrap is comfortable and easy to use with flat or fitted diapers! If you're new to cloth they also have a cloth diapering kit [$118] with all you need to get started.

One Size - Well, this one's pretty self explanatory. While you save money in the long run, one of the deterants to cloth diapering is the large start up cost. Thinking you might have to shell that out 2 or 3 or 4 times as your little grows can seem daunting.

The geniuses at bumGenius have thought up our favorite solution. Their One-Size Cloth Diaper 2.0 [$19] fits babes 8-35 pounds! With a simple snap system the diaper will grow with your little one from their birth day through potty training.

Win Win Win!
Diapers anyone? We have a Fuzzi Bunz pocket diaper, a mini Bummis kit (Whisper Pant, 6 prefolds, roll of liners!) and a Kushies Classic fitted diaper to give away to some lucky readers. Just send us an email (reviews@mamaspeaks[dot]com) by midnight, September 26 with Cloth as your subject.

Check back for some awesome discounts on our favorite nappies.

If you're still in need of more info Diaper Pin is a GREAT resource.

A Bungee for Your Binkie

We all know that even though it may "build up immunities," no Mama really wants to see her child retrieve a pacifier from the floor and pop it into their sweet little mouth. 

Whether we're out in public, in the car, or even at home, my kiddo frequently sees something more appetizing than his little sucker, and more often than not, will simply allow it to free fall from his mouth, making room for the new "snack".  Now, thanks to Bella Tunno's Binker [$8], I don't have to carry a truckload of backups, and I don't have to worry about bulky cartoon characters!  Keep your binkies close and clean with this safety-tested pacifier clip.  It comes in 30 stylish grosgrain ribbon options, and the attachment clip has rubber tips that protect little clothes from snags and damage. 

The Binker doesn't have to stand alone, though.  Your trend-setting tot can flaunt other funky and fun baby basics- including bibs, burp cloths, diaper changing pads, and play smocks.  These products can be bought separately or in shower-ready gift sets.

Better yet, not only are the designs great, but so is the cause.  Bella Tunno donates a portion of all proceeds to drug-rehabilitation related organizations.

-Carol

Win it!
Protect your "Wild Child" with a laminate bib from Bella Tunno. Just send your answer to the following question to reviews@mamaspeaks.com by midnight August 25. What is Bella Tunno's tag line?

Mama Speaks readers get 20% off ANY purchase at Bella Tunno! Enter code MT20 at checkout.

Gold Medal Diaper Bag

In the Olympics of diaper bags, DadGear's messenger takes the Gold. The innovative design makes any parents’ life a whole lot easier and the masculine design makes DadGear bags stand out.

The quick-access window, under the front panel, keeps wipes within easy reach. And the light colored interior makes it easy to find what you're looking for. (To check it out see the demo at DadGear.)

The Dads at DadGear score extra points for the Billboard series messengers. Recycled billboard ads were used to create one of a kind bags that are eco-friendly.

The messenger is so low-key and comfy, Dad (or Mama) will want to use this baby beyond the diaper days. Remove diapers, insert laptop and get on your way.

-Katja

DadGear is offering our readers 15% off any purchase! Just enter MamaSpeaks15 at checkout.

Renegade Booty

Cloth diapering just got a little bit cooler with the custom print fitteds from Renegade Baby. In tattoo or sushi print these thirsty nappies are super soft and amazingly absorbent. In addition to homeopaths and accessories this up and coming, family owned diaper shop has a great selection of cloth diapers, covers and soakers that you won't find elsewhere.

Mama Speaks readers can save 15% off any purchase by entering code FTB07 at checkout. So head on over to Renegade Baby and stock up on supplies for you little booty.