INTERIOR DESIGN AND FURNITURE GUIDE

BABY FURNITURE IDEAS

Look Mama! No Crib Bumper Pads – Go Mama Go product spotlight

May 28th, 2010

Go Mama Go Designs offer a revolutionary way to make sleepy-time safer and more comfortable for infants. Crib bedding sets made by this company skip crib bumper pads altogether, opting instead for vertical crib bumpers. These uniquely designed crib bumper sets are more breathable than standard crib bumpers, allowing air to circulate better, keeping baby cooler and fresher. Go Mama Go vertical style crib bumpers also reduce the risk of SIDS and are easy to install, use and clean.

The idea is simple. The vertical bumpers wrap around each of the crib’s vertical rails. Because infant little fingers grow to be curious little fingers, Go Mama Go bumpers don’t use Velcro, but rather zippers instead. These run from top to bottom, positioning them below the mattress line when properly fastened and therefore safely out of reach of tiny hands. Each Go Mama Go is 5” wide and is made of soft, stretchable materials that essentially mould themselves to fit the rails of the crib. And they can be easily thrown into the washing machine.

Go Mama Go wonder bumpers are available in packs that can customized to the crib you purchased. The average crib can have 30 to 60 rails. Before deciding on a Go Mama Go crib set, count the verticals rails on your crib. They are simple to put on, there are no ties and they everything from blankies to bumpers are made of very soft materials that will feel good on baby’s skin. Because they cover the entire length of the rail, should a little mishap occur, baby’s head is better protected.

Go Mama Go Designs was created by two enterprising moms in 2006. They were motivated (and continue to be motivated) to designs baby crib products that contributed to a safe and cozy environment for sleeping. Go Mama Go wonder bumpers and wonder bumper crib bedding sets are as innovative and functional as they are fun and fashionable.

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Designing a Green Nursery Part 3 – Buying Eco-Friendly Baby Products

April 30th, 2010

During the first months of their lives, the immune systems of infants are still developing. At this stage, they tend to be more susceptible to their environs and sometimes have difficulty in processing toxins. It is for this reason that a green nursery or an eco-friendly nursery appeals to many parents. Even for parents who are not specifically eco-conscious or are actively living sustainably, they are very interested in creating the safest and least toxic environment as possible for their new baby. Today in the third (and last) part of this mini-series, we’ll look at what it means to buy eco-friendly baby products.

It’s a well-known fact that babies tend to get a little messy. For this reason it might be tempting to purchase items like crib bedding, crib mattresses, baby blankets, pillows and clothes that stain or moisture resistant. When purchasing baby products for your green nursery, skip any thing that has been treated; especially avoid fire retardants commonly used in the making of crib mattresses.

And speaking of messy, while it might seem very labor-intensive and there’s no denying that disposable diapers are much more convenient, reusable organic cloth diapers are much kinder to the environment. While a disposable diaper may be as soft on baby’s skin, the cloth diaper, particularly some organic versions, are actually more breathable, and therefore are more comfortable for baby.

Especially since they will inevitably end up in your baby’s mouth, look for toys made of wood with non-toxic finishes or of natural fibers. For baby products like teething rings, soothers and chew toys that are often made from plastics, stay away from ones made of PVC (polyvinyl chloride), a type of plastic that can be potentially harmful to your child.

For baby products like lotions, shampoos and diaper creams, look for eco-friendly baby skin care items that don’t use harsh detergents and other potentially toxic chemicals. Ditto for any cleaning products or solutions you plan on using in your nursery and anywhere in your home that baby will come into direct contact with what is being cleaned.

It used to be more difficult to find eco friendly baby products. But it isn’t so complicated anymore. As more of us are finding ways to be kinder to the environment (and to our children and ourselves), manufacturers of baby furniture and baby products are responding by offering a variety of sustainable, eco friendly or organic baby products.

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You bought the Crib, What Now? – Buying a Crib Mattress

April 21st, 2010

You selected the crib with extra care and meticulously matched it with the other baby furniture you will need to make your infant’s first room a special place. But in many ways, the crib mattress is just as important as the crib itself, since it will play a direct role in your baby’s development. Because you’re buying it for a baby, the natural instinct is to choose something soft and cushiony. However, since your baby will be sleeping on it while they’re growing and developing, a crib mattress should be firm and not too soft or too hard.

There are basically two types of crib mattresses, foam and innerspring. One type of mattress is not better than the other. For adult mattresses, it comes down to the sleeper’s personal preference and how he or she feels when lying down. The same applies to a foam crib mattress or an innerspring crib mattress. Studies have shown that if the parent or parents sleep on an innerspring mattress, they will probably choose the same type when buying a baby crib mattress.

Crib Mattress Characteristics

Whether you purchase an innerspring crib mattress or a foam crib mattress, the crib mattress should have the following characteristics:

  • It should be firm
  • It must fit snugly against the sides of the crib to eliminate any possibility of injury or harm
  • Should include some type of waterproof cover
  • Crib mattress seams should have fabric binding to allow air to escape, relieving pressure and extending the life of the crib mattress
  • Include vents which allows the mattress allows to breathe

Going Natural

 If you are concerned about the possible effects of synthetic materials, chemicals or potential allergy-causing compounds on your child, an alternative to traditionally made innerspring and foam crib mattresses, is the organic crib mattress. It is typically composed of organic cottons and wools. The protective cover is made of a non-toxic, water-resistant material like white polyethylene, an environmentally friendly plastic.

Some manufacturers offer foam crib mattresses that are eco-friendly as opposed to being purely organic. If this is a concern for you, read any available product information and crib mattress product reviews to find an organic crib mattress that meets all of your requirements. Expect to pay a little more for an organic crib mattress.

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DaVinci Emily Cribs – Product Review

April 19th, 2010

 If you’re looking for a crib that will blend easily with a traditional, transitional or a country décor, look no further than the Emily 4-in-1 Convertible Baby Crib by DaVinci. With a hint of sleigh bed élan, the Emily crib has soft, flowing lines, a classic, heirloom appearance and a design that allows it to grow with your baby. Emily convertible crib packages include everything you will need to convert it into a daybed or a full bed once it is no longer needed as a crib.

The most practical feature of the Emily convertible crib, is of course its ability to be converted to first a toddler bed.

Then eventually to a full size bed. An Emily convertible crib can save you from buying two different beds as your child moves from the toddler stage to the “big boy bed” stage.

Especially if you are looking for ways to make your nursery greener, DaVinci Emily convertible cribs are carefully crafted from woods from sustainable forests and wood composites. In DaVinci Emily product reviews, consumers repeatedly remark on how relatively easy the wood crib was to assemble and that it’s well-made and very sturdy.

If you live in an apartment, a condominium or would like the option of having the crib in your bedroom, consider the DaVinci Emily Mini 2-in-1 Convertible Baby Crib. While it will only convert from a crib to a twin size bed (with conversion bed rails), this mini crib has several of the main features of the standard size Emily crib. It might be the ideal space-saving solution you are looking for.

If you’re looking for matching furniture pieces, the DaVinci Emily Collection doesn’t just offer cribs. You will also be able to find other much-needed baby nursery furniture products like the Emily changing table and the Emily 4 Drawer Chest.

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Things to Consider before Buying a Toddler Bed

April 9th, 2010

 As soon as they’re big enough to climb up and potentially out, it will be obvious they’re growing out of their crib and new sleeping arrangements will need to be made. When your child no longer needs a crib, parents are faced with two main choices – a toddler bed or a twin bed. Buying a toddler bed for your child can make the transition from a crib to a twin bed much easier. Purchasing a twin bed saves you from having to buy another bed in 1½ to 3 years. Since a twin bed can appear to be too big for a small child, many parents struggle with what to choose, safety issues causing the most concern. Essentially a toddler bed gives the child assurance and the parents peace of mind.

Toddler Bed Fast Facts

 The sleeping area of a toddler bed is the same size of a standard crib and most kinds of toddler beds use a crib mattress. A toddler bed sits almost on the floor, which is what is so appealing about it. Toddler beds have the appearance and freedom of a twin bed, but are scaled down to provide a toddler with a safe sleeping environment. Even so, many types of toddler beds include some kind of railing for added protection and to prevent the child from falling out.

If you’re reluctant to buy a piece of furniture for your child’s bedroom that has such a short life span, buy a toddler bed that is not theme-related, as these beds tend to be more expensive than a standard toddler’s bed. You might also want to skip any extra features such as under-bed storage for the same reason.

 Toddler beds are often cheaper than twin beds. Usually they use a crib mattress, so it will save you from having to buy a new one. Many types of toddler beds also let you make use of the crib bedding you already have on hand.

Other Options to Consider

Buy a convertible crib. Convertible cribs are designed to grow with your child, from 0 to approximately 5 years of age. Some types of convertible cribs need a conversion kit – check to see if this is applicable to the crib you are considering purchasing.

Remove one side of the crib and let your child get used to the freedom of sleeping without being enclosed in on all sides.

Buy safety rails for a new twin bed or a twin bed you already own. When purchasing a new twin bed, choose a type of bed that stands low to the floor such as a low-profile platform bed like the Young America by Stanley myHaven Twin Low Post Cottage Panel Bed or a captains bed. Captains beds are basically a platform bed on top of a set of drawers, but they tend to sit close to the ground, depending on the number of drawers included in the bed’s design.

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Bassinets and Cradles

January 6th, 2010

The typical reaction to the news that a baby is on the way is to plan a nursery with all of the usual suspects like a crib, crib mattress, change table and dresser. With so many things to consider, so many decisions to make, it’s not always easy to predict what you will need, particularly if it is your first child. Even if you have had a child or children before, each little one is different and what worked for your first child might not work for the second one. But from the time you bring your newborn home to around four to six months, your baby won’t need the crib. Until they start to experience independent movement, a bassinet or cradle will provide a more enclosed and cozier sleeping environment.

The interesting thing about cradles is that they serve the same purpose as bassinets; the only difference is that they can be rocked back and forth. Both a cradle and a bassinet provide a safe and comfortable place for your child to sleep until he or she is around six months old. Many types of bassinets and cradles are portable, giving you the option of moving it from room to room or using it outside of your home when needed. While cradle and bassinet designs are fairly basic and straightforward, some manufacturers offer different features intended to amuse and/or calm your child.

Before you buy a cradle or a bassinet, first consider if you would like to be able to rock your baby to sleep. If the answer is “yes” then a cradle will be a good choice for you.

Whether you purchase a cradle or bassinet, check to see that it is well-constructed. For cradles, bassinets and baskets that are made from wicker or bamboo, make sure that nothing juts out or is woven loosely. Regarding safety, ensure that any handles the basket or bassinet includes are securely attached underneath the basket rather than on the sides.

Cradles and bassinets with casters should be lockable and easy for you to use.

The base of the cradle or the bassinet must be wide enough to support your child.

Depending on the manufacturer, some types of bassinets and cradles come with mattresses. Check to see that the mattress fits snuggly up against the sides. To prevent accidental suffocation, there should be no more than a two-finger gap between the edge of the mattress and the side of the cradle or bassinet.

A variation on the bassinet theme is a portable bassinet style basket. Should you prefer to setup the bassinet or cradle in your bedroom and leave it there, having somewhere in your living room or kitchen for your child to sleep is a viable option.

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Floral Theme for Baby Girl’s Nursery

October 14th, 2009

Designing a nursery for your new baby girl and picking out a theme is a fun way for an expectant mother to prepare for the exciting days ahead. A theme makes the décor “pop” and adds an entertaining element to the room. Today, you can find a wide variety of crib bedding, furniture accent pieces and accessories, not just in traditional white or pastel, but in rainbow of colors and designs. However you imagine your baby’s first room, with or without the classic frills and lace, you can make it happen. Don’t know where to start? A popular theme for a baby girl nursery is flowers and the related themes of gardens and butterflies.

Start with the Basics

The basic furniture pieces you will need in your nursery are the crib, a changing table a dresser or chest of drawers and a rocker.

Young America by Stanley Caroline Crib Set

Young America by Stanley Caroline Crib Set

The delightful Young America by Stanley Caroline Crib in Soft White with 3 Height Adjustments sports a floral theme. The Young America Caroline collection includes a matching dresser and changing station.

Dress the Crib

Once you have the furniture picked out, you can really go to town with your flower theme. Choose crib bedding that this bright and bold or soft and pastel – it doesn’t really matter as long as it has flowers.

Cotton Tale Lollipops & Roses Lampshade

Cotton Tale Lollipops & Roses Lampshade

The Cotton Tale Early Bird 4-Piece Baby Crib Bedding Set features blooming roses in warm pinks and earth tones. Cotton Tale offers an entire Early Bird collection for the nursery that includes Baby Nursery Wall Art in which the birdie really does make an appearance.

Kathy Ireland Home by Thank You

Kathy Ireland Home by Thank You

Continuing in the flower theme, the Kathy Ireland Home by Thank You Baby The Sweetie Carnival Bloom Complete Nursery Set is bold, beautiful and funky.

Kathy Ireland by Thank You Baby Forever Blossoms Nursery Decor Set

Still bold and beautiful, but with classic “girl” pink accents, the Kathy Ireland by Thank You Baby Forever Blossoms Nursery Decor Set will definitely bring a little flower power to your nursery.

Finishing Touches for Your Nursery

Cotton Tale Lollipops & Roses Lampshade

Cotton Tale Lollipops & Roses Lampshade

The Cotton Tale Lollipops & Roses Baby Nursery Lampshade is subtle and pretty in a tranquil and classic way.

Teamson Design Bouquet

You’ll need someplace for toys and other treasures that you might want to hide away when they’re not in use. Charming and delicate with its hand-painted motif, the Teamson Design Bouquet Hand Painted Girl’s Toy Chest/Box is ideal for a floral themed room.

Olive Kids Flowerland Printed Rug

For that final touch that will give your nursery additional warmth and style, throw down the Olive Kids Flowerland Printed Rug. The colors are delicious!

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Handy Tips for Traveling with Children

October 8th, 2009
A travel organizer like the Sunshine Kids Travel Pal can be a lifesaver when on the road with children.

A travel organizer like the Sunshine Kids Travel Pal can be a lifesaver when on the road with children.

I know how stressful it can be traveling with children. While being with them and seeing new places through their eyes is a wonderful experience for kids and adults alike, traveling with children can make the whole process more stressful and complicated. Whether in a plane, train or automobile, the trick to helping them deal with being in a confined space for a long period of time is planning ahead.

It’s not just a matter of keeping them safe and comfortable; you have to keep them engaged and entertained as well.

Melissa and Doug Magnetic Habitats SetWhether we’re traveling by plane or car, I am selective when I’m when packing toys. Try to choose favorites, the ones that your children play with for hours on end when they’re at home. Toys and toys sets with a lot of moving parts and loose pieces can be a recipe for disaster – easy to lose, spill or get left behind. Board games where game pieces are a part of the board or attached to the board itself in some way are ideal for travel. Activity sets that come in their own bag or carrying case are ideal for keeping your children amused while in the air or in the car. Another great thing to have along for the ride is something to draw with and something to draw on. Drawing pads that include sheets of paper in different colors are a plus.

Mixing it up is a key ingredient. I like to grab a handful of small toys, puzzles and novelty games commonly found in dollar stores everywhere. They’re a cheap and convenient way to keep kids busy and un-bored. Since they’re inexpensive, it won’t matter if any of them get lost. I like to get separate selections for each child; that way they can swap with one another.

Books are another way to keep them focused on something other than “Are we there yet?” There is such a variety to choose from. But as with toys, resist the temptation to take their entire library on the trip with you. Limit the number per child. Audio books are also a great option.

Portable players for both younger and older children will keep them happy and amused. Kids of all ages love music. Take along a portable CD player or DVD player (or both if you have the room). And of course, they also love movies. A choice handful of their favorites will keep them entertained for a nice chunk of time. Don’t forget to include a handy headset complete with colorful, oversized ear-cups. It will be easier for them to use and will help control the noise level.

The Heys USA Disney Princess Carry On is perfect for girls.

The Heys USA Disney Princess Carry On is perfect for girls.

Giving each child their own carry-on is a smart way to make them responsible for their own stuff, while keeping all of their treasures accessible and in one place. Carry ons for kids are designed to be user-friendly, with convenient features like inline wheels and retractable handles.

Backpacks are another option, especially ones in bright colors or with a particular theme.

The Heys USA Disney Cars Carry On has a theme very popular with boys.

The Heys USA Disney Cars Carry On has a theme very popular with boys.

Don’t forget a tote bag for yourself. I prefer a travel organizer with multiple compartments, both interior and exterior, which allows me to easily pack and organize kids’ medicines, first aid items, wipes, tissues and snacks. Choose a carry on or tote bag with a wet compartment. This will give you someplace to store damp cloths or towels.Traveling with kids can be an adventure, a way to introduce them to another part of the world and give them new experiences that will become a part of a lifetime of memories. And getting there is half the fun!

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Buy High Chairs

August 31st, 2009

Are you Looking to Buy High Chairs for a Little Prince or Princess?

Mom to Mom Advice to Buy High Chairs

It’s the moment the whole family had been waiting for: Our seven-month-old princess is holding court in the family dining room. She’s sitting up in her high chair and gobbling up the mashed veggies and cereals.

As this was such a milestone for her—and for us—you can just imagine how difficult it was for us to decide on what kind of “throne” to give our little royalty.

Graco High ChairYes, choosing the right high chair turned out to be such a big production! And to think that this is not the first time we’re buying:

 We have a 7-year-old. But I guess the seven-year gap made us conveniently forget certain things. And after seven years since we last went shopping for high chairs, boy, did we see a lot of new stuff!

 We have done the work, so let us share with you the fruits of our exhausting, sometimes comical, but ultimately fun labor:

 

 
Stokke High Chair*Always seek for your baby’s comfort. Seats should offer lounge-style reclining and ergonomic support.
*Be practical and check for several adjustments for foot rest, tray and seat height so the high chair can accommodate your growing baby—and we all know how they grow up really fast.
*Our babies don’t have table manners! Food lands on every nook and cranny of the chair. So pick a high chair that can be easily cleaned and washed—look for dishwasher safe straps, insert trays, machine washable seat cushions, etc.

 

 
Fisher Price High Chair*My baby easily gets bored (don’t they all?), so additional features, like places to clip on toys, teethers, and other knickknacks, are a good idea to keep her engaged while feeding.
*High chairs with wheels are good for “active” babies and families—when feeding time can happen in any part of the house. Just make sure that these wheels lock!
*If your living space is small, consider a chair that is compact and can easily be folded.

Of course, it goes without saying that you should make sure of the following: lead-free paint, working safety belts, and not a trace of any kind of toxic materials when you buy high chairs.

Vicky (mom to a 7-year-old boy and a seven-month-old baby girl)

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Fisher Price Baby Bouncer Chair

August 20th, 2009

Fisher Price Baby Bouncer Chair

Mom To Mom Advice

Fisher Price Bouncer ChairDuring the first months after my daughter’s birth, our nights were a blur of carrying her around and around our tiny apartment, swinging her in her infant car seat and going for long walks at 1 a.m. just to get her to fall asleep. 

When she was three months old, I remember complaining to a friend in Toronto just how sore my back and arms were from all the carrying and rocking.  In kindness and sympathy my friend promptly bought and  shipped me a Fisher Price bouncer chair .

At first, my daughter wasn’t heavy enough to bounce herself, so my husband and I would take turns sitting in front of her and gently bouncing the chair until she nodded off. And once she figured out that a little baby kick makes this bouncer go; she started bouncing herself off to sleep without any help from me. No more sore arms. No more aching back!

This bouncer is very handy during the day time as well. As with most babies, my daughter loved to be in the middle of the action at all times. The sturdy, plastic handles cleverly located on either side of the chair make transporting it from room to room a breeze. With a removable arch of soft, colourful toys to grab and pull, a baby will be happily entertained long after the adults become boring. This nifty little chair has a permanent place on my list of baby must-haves.

Krista (mom to two)

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