droolicious : baby gear

First Look: Cybex Strollers

Nicole Feliciano — Tue, 26 May 2009 19:30:00 GMT

Cybex strollers hit the streets late this summer.

Look out Silver Cross and Maclaren, there is a new high-end stroller brand en route to the US and they plan to turn the heads of fashionable American parents.

Last week, Cybex previewed their new line of buggies and baby gear in New York. The colors were bold and sophisticated, the construction clean and sturdy. Cybex designs their line in Kulmbach, Germany and manufacturers at their own plant in China—quality control was stressed again and again.

The brand is extremely popular in Europe and now thanks to a new partnership (Regal Lager), Cybex is coming to Amrica. First up, Cybex will be rolling out four stroller models in the US: Ruby, Onyx, Topaz and a sublime city pram called the Calisto (shown).

Moms are sure to swoon for the ingenious one-pull harness (found on all the models). It adjusts like a well-made car seat--taking the fussy task of tightening the harness and making it a thing of the past. And the hood attachment is one of the cleanest we’ve found.

Ruby, the lightest stroller, weighs about 12 lbs. and will start at $140. Prices go up with added features until you reach the deluxe model, the 19 lb. Calisto (priced around $350). This jazzy Calisto will have aluminum wheels, adjustable handlebars, and four recline positions and will accommodate the Cybex car seat. Place your orders now for August 1st shipping.

Jeep's Tandem Stroller: A Lot of Stroller for a Little Price Tag

elizabeth leach — Tue, 26 May 2009 19:00:00 GMT

Jeep’s new Traveler Tandem Stroller is a fantastic deal. Weighing 38 pounds, this full service stroller folds up as easily as an umbrella stroller, stands on it's own and fits in the trunk of compact cars. With plenty of bells and whistles, the Jeep Traveler Tandem is a great deal at only $179.99.

The back seat accommodates many popular brands of car seats and the front seat is perfect for your toddler because it comes with a cute snack tray, cup holder and toy steering wheel. The canopies and independent reclining seats means one baby can sleep and the other can play!

Purchase the Jeep Traveler Tandem Stroller.

We're Cuckoo for Kokopax

JeanneSager — Wed, 20 May 2009 19:30:00 GMT

It helps that the Kokopax logo feeds right into my monkey obsession, but the real reason I'm bananas for their new line of totes? They look like something I would have carried around town before the kid came along!

Makers of the hot new tot carriers, Kokopax's line of totes come in canvas designs to match. But they stand on their own as gorgeous carriers for everything besides the baby.

With a slot for a bottle (theirs or yours) just inside, a generously-sized zippered compartment, three more sectioned-off mesh compartments and an extra removable zippered pouch, there's room to spare for everything you need when you're on the go. Or you can leave the baby and their gear at home, and tote this bag for a day out on the town, just you.

The totes are $79.99 apiece, but we've got a special discount for Babble readers. Enter bbbllee at checkout to receive 10 percent off anything from Kokopax.

Check Out More Monkey Business:

Five Finds for On-the-Go With Your Little Monkey

Not Potpourri, POO-Pourri

JeanneSager — Tue, 19 May 2009 14:30:00 GMT

Ah, potpourri, pretty scented bits to stick in the back of your drawers to keep your clothes smelling oh so good. Right?

Well, not exactly. How about Poo-Pourri, pretty (well, lemony) scented spray to keep away the eau du diaper?

From the company that makes Poo-Pourri for spraying in the toilet after a big well, you know what, comes a bottle for spraying in the diaper after an equally big you know what.

Poo-Pourri actually smells pretty good, based on bergamot, lemongrass and grapefruit. We're past the diaper stage in my house, so I can't say how well it works on them, but we still have the occasional pile of stinky wipes around, and it managed to leave our garbage can smelling fruity!

So what do you think parents? Willing to give it a try to kiss the diaper pail smell goodbye? Get a small bottle of Poo-Pourri Jr. from Poo-Pourri for $12.95 (that's about 200 uses per bottle, depending on how liberally you spray).

Keep Things Swinging from the Car Top

JeanneSager — Mon, 18 May 2009 14:30:00 GMT

Tell me if this story sounds familiar:

You're driving along, and the baby starts crying in the backseat. That stuffed elephant you carefully tucked in their carseat? Yeah, it's on the floor. AGAIN.

Not anymore.

The Kicky Pants Auto Mobile keeps all toys within reach at all times, but it also keeps them locked in place. The stretchy fabric cord runs across the inside of the roof of your car. Plastic rings come as part of the package, and allow you to hook their toys to the Auto Mobile. So the toys wobble, but they don't fall down.

Ah, who knew you'd ever drive an uninterrupted drive again?

Get it from the Itsy Bitsy Baby Boutique for $19.95.

Introducing the Bagless Diaper Bag

JeanneSager — Fri, 15 May 2009 21:04:00 GMT

The worst part of the diaper bag was always the hefty, bulky back-breaking bag. So what if you could get all the best parts of the diaper bag without the actual bag?

The Quick Change Kit from Kalencom seems to do the trick. A foldable pad to lay out for a diaper change anywhere, it's stocked with a plastic wipes container and space to stow the diapers. An extra zippered pocket on the outside gives you space for your keys, cash and other necessities. But that's it.

Folded up and buckled, it's only a foot wide and about half as tall. So not heft. No bulk, and you've got all you need for the on the go?

Now all you need to know is where to get it (and in more than a dozen funky designs). That would be straight from Kalencom for $24. You can thank us later.

First Look: Kokopax Baby Carrier

Nicole Feliciano — Thu, 14 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Not a sling type? Kokopax is a soft new baby hauling solution.

Sarah Spoor a mom of four (go figure) dreamed up the new Kokopax carrier. Sarah must have needed her hands free to take care of the brood. Some how this craft mama found the time to make her notable contribution to baby gear: a comfortable carrier that appeals to style-savvy moms.

Unlike slings, the Kokopax carrier distributes weight evenly. The carrier can be used for babies six months up until two years (maxing out at 35 pounds). Technically sound, what makes us love the Kokopax are the little touches. The padded straps are mighty comfortable and we love the cushion on the lower back portion. Not to mention the five-point harness, lightweight frame (weighs less than three pounds), and handy kickstand.

Our pint-sized tester enjoyed the ride--nice and cozy in the seat. There’s even a toy ring to keep baby entertained—but our tester found the world’s-eye-view stimulating enough.

Finally then there's the fashion aspect. Covered in stylish modern fabrics, Kokopax is decidedly more chic than a traditional baby backpack. Colors and prints range from “Licorice” (basic black) to “Buds” a sophisticated Asian print. $179.99

Use code mmtren2009 to receive a 10% discount on any order from www.kokopax.com.

Joovy's Ultralight Caboose

elizabeth leach — Wed, 13 May 2009 17:00:00 GMT

I'm getting ready for baby number two and I've heard from a lot of other Moms that they can't (or won't) leave the house with both kids. Well, I prefer not to be a shut in and I can't afford a nanny, so I'm focused on finding a double stroller that makes my life a little easier. Joovy's newest stand-on stroller, the Caboose Ultralight, is a fantastic option. Most importantly, the Ultralight is ultra light at only twenty-one pounds.

I didn't even want to consider a stand-on stroller because they're usually really ugly, but Joovy has fixed that little problem. The Caboose Ultralight (and Joovy's regular Caboose), are contemporary and sporty in bright colors with black details. Pushing the Ultralight Stroller is like pushing a stroller for one. My toddler can sit or stand at the back of the stroller easily and without an argument. She actually likes it! In fact, she got right on the moment I finished putting the stroller together. Another important feature are the sealed ball bearing wheels which make the stroller run smoothly and quickly. This is a quality stroller for a very good price.

So, I won't have to worry about those warnings about not fitting through doors with a double stroller, never using my double stroller because the toddler hates being in a stroller and all those other stories I've heard from other Moms. Joovy's Ultralight Caboose even takes an infant car seat (many of the top brands) so there goes that problem solved, too. Now, can Joovy cure colic? That's my next concern. I'll let you know!

Purchase the Joovy Caboose Ultralight for the sale price of $239.99. Many Ultralights also include an All-Season Pad and Parent Organizer. The All-Season Pad has fleece on one side and mesh on the other. The Parent Organizer fits on the handle bar and can hold two bottles, keys and wallet.

Read Cathy's review of Joovy's Caboose Stroller here.

A Cure for the Dropsies

elizabeth leach — Sat, 09 May 2009 18:00:00 GMT

Luvloo's Toy Wranger is a must for keeping your sanity during the "dropsy" stage. Attach your baby's toys and bottle to your stroller, shopping cart and high chair and you won't have to continually pick them up. The Toy Wrangler's plastic rings make it easy to attach the toys and the elastic cuffs can fit around bottles and sippy cups.

Purchase Luvloo's Toy Wranger for $9.99 for a two pack and stay sane! (They say it gets easier, by the way!)

Valco Latitude for Two: Ride in Style!

elizabeth leach — Wed, 06 May 2009 13:30:00 GMT

Double strollers are double trouble if you don't find the right one. Valco Baby's Latitude for Two is pure luxury. Both seats fully recline independently with the touch of a button and the hoods lift over the seat for superior sun coverage and nap-time. This is a full service stroller, but weighs only 30 lbs. Stroller measures 28" wide and fits through standard doorways.

The Latitude for Two, also called the Twin Latitude, is perfect for Moms who live in a city, for taking longs walks, for trips to the mall, or for any day your children will be spending time in their stroller. There are lighter double strollers (by only a few pounds) on the market, but none have as many features as this one. For instance, you can use a car seat with one side of the stroller. Car seat adapters are available for GRACO, Peg Perego, Britax and Maxi Cosi. A rain cover and boot cover come included with the stroller and there's a very large basket for all your shopping.

The Twin Latitude is available in silk black (above photo) with light blue and green accents (my favorite), licorice with grey accents, and clay with orange accents. The Latitude in clay is on sale for $399.99.

Visit Valco for more information. Purchase Valco's Twin Latitude Stroller for $479.

Win Dainty Necklaces for EVERY Kind of Mom

JeanneSager — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 16:31:00 GMT

Mother's Day is about her, so get her a mom necklace that doesn't scream "mom" to anyone but her.

Homespun City's Dainty initial necklaces let her carry her baby 'round her neck, and no one has to be the wiser. Hand made, these delicate necklaces are feminine and flirty, so she'll feel sexy with them sitting in the nape of her neck . . . and still feel like Mom.

Have one kid? Get the Dainty with just one simple disc and hand embossed letter for $32. Have two (or maybe want her to be thinking about you too)? Get the Double Dainty with two initials for $40.

Have three? Get the triple dainty for $47, with three initial charms of your choice.

Or win a Homespun City necklace - click here for details.

A Mini Cooper for Your Mini Style Maven

JeanneSager — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 21:01:00 GMT

I love the look of the Mini Cooper, but it's always smacked of something you'd pick up at a toy store to me. It's part of its charm! Now the Mini has gone truly tiny, with Mini tees from Charlie and Sarah for the toy store set.

Printed on soft American Apparel tees, the Mini is hand block printed with a screenprint overlay on this side of the pond with the little car for your little one.

Sized from 6-12 months up to 12, get the Mini tee from Blue Sky Rocket for $29 in long-sleeve or get the short-sleeve in sizes 2 through 12 for $25.

A Sleek Diaper Bag for Non-Flowery Mom

Cathy Hale — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

If you aren't a flowery-diaper-bag-toting kinda mom, don't despair! Take a look at the sophisticated Blue Floral Disc Tote Diaper Bag from OiOi. Yes, I know "floral" is in the name, but this doesn't seem too prissy or fussy for the mom who appreciates contemporary style.

If you haven't taken a diaper bag test drive yet, I highly recommend giving OiOi a spin. The bags are even better looking in person and I'm always amazed at the extensive features. They certainly understand what moms need on-the-go and how important it is to access everything quickly and easily.

This cool tote can be found at Arte Bebe for $160.

The Only Half Stroller You'll Ever Need

Cathy Hale — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 18:30:00 GMT

Before you buy that fancy-schmancy stroller you've been dreaming about, consider a half stroller. It's all of the moving parts plus storage basket - you just provide the seat and the baby. The Maclaren Easy Traveller is a great way to enjoy the convenience and reliability of a Maclaren without the big price tag. It's easy to fold, easy to carry and it's compatible with ten popular infant car seats. (You can view the list by following the link below.)

Half strollers are especially useful during the first few months of motherhood when lifting heavy things can be a problem. Trust me, that baby carrier will get heavy fast. You'll appreciate negotiating a lightweight stroller in and out of the trunk more than you think! And if you have a sporty fuel-efficient car, this will surely fit in a small trunk.

The Maclaren Easy Traveller retails for $80 at BabyEarth.

This is a Diaper Bag? Believe It

JeanneSager — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 16:26:00 GMT

Forgive me for thinking diaper bags were supposed to be functionally ugly and covered in characters. Coolil has.

Their Heidi Mommy Bag is a slouchy hobo you can sling over your shoulder without the kid and no one would be the wiser. Stocked with dividers and pockets galore on the inside, it's collapsible with snap enclosures to minimize the momminess when you're out and about, and a set of hooks makes the Heidi into a backpack when you need extra hands.

From the New York-based company that's made a name for itself by bringing Israeli designers to the states, the Heidi comes from Adi Samuel, whose fabrics are fabric free and anything but ugly.

Get a Heidi Mommy Bag now from Coolil and save $16 on the 2008 line ($109) or check out the 2009 styles ($125) that have just hit the site.

These Feet Were Made for Storytelling

JeanneSager — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 20:17:00 GMT

If you think every footprint tells a story, you'll be scooting out to get a set of the storytelling shoes from Scooterbees.

Little booties made in sizes for kids up to age twenty-four months, they're the perfect shoes for early walkers - soft, pliable and made to fit every kind of foot thanks to the wrap-around design. Slip their feet into the fabric shoes, and fasten first with one Velcro flap then the next to make the perfect fit. It's the flaps that tell the story - each imprinted with a different design, from little pandas to big elephants. Open the top flap and there's yet another design - another story - beneath.

Made of recycled fibers, with non-slip soles made from ThermoPlastic Elastomer, a degradable material made of carbon and hydrogen, Scooterbees guarantee their little feet won't leave behind massive carbon footprints.

We love them because they're machine washable, not to mention CPSIA compliant!

Prices vary, but most styles are $37.95. Scoot on over to get them at Amazon.

Guess What? Maxi Cosi Makes a Stroller

Cathy Hale — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 18:00:00 GMT

Did you know Maxi Cosi, the same folks who makes cool car seats, also make a lightweight stroller? Yep, they do. It's called the Perle and together with their Infant Car Seat, you can create the perfect travel system. Of course, it can be used without the car seat as a regular single stroller. The Perle has lots of great features like an ultra-compact umbrella fold, 5 point harness system, peek-a-boo sun shade, multi-position recline seat and more. It also comes with a bunch of convenient accessories. Accommodates a child up to 50 pounds. Retails for $200 at BabyEarth.

Eco for the Next Generation

JeanneSager — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 20:34:00 GMT

I confess. I'm a sap. All that "our children are our future" mumbo jumbo makes me weepy.

So the designs by Meghan Stein Webster at Eco-Generation Kids were bound to pull at my heartstrings (oh yeah, and my pocketbook). Webster suffered a double whammy when she lost her dad to cancer that doctors linked to environmental causes then got pregnant - only to learn she couldn't spend time in her beautiful garden because doctors were worried for the life of her child.

Now she's a mom and designer, covering organic cotton tees in messages for the future printed with low-impact inks and dyes.

All it takes is one look at the penguins asking "where will they march," and you've got me (and no, I'm not pregnant, but thanks for asking!). This is precisely WHY I didn't watch March of the Penguins, by the way.If you sway Seussian, check out One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, No Fish.

All the tees are made for kids so Webster can impress the messages of our world on its future.

Get any of the tees at Eco-Generation Kids.

Popular Pack-N-Play Under $100

Cathy Hale — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 17:00:00 GMT

When it comes to baby gear necessities, most parents appreciate the convenience and safety of a pack-n-play. The Graco Bugs Quilt portable playard is one of Target's bestselling baby items. You can easily set it up, store it and transport it. It's also simple to clean with just a bit of soap and water. Dimensions 38 L x 38 W x 30.5 H. Retails for $90 at Target.

The Snuggie For Kids: Only Better

JeanneSager — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 16:34:00 GMT

It's probably a little unfair to compare the Merino Kids sleep bags to that ridiculous blanket with sleeves thing they peddle on night-time TV. Oh well, too late.

But there is good news - Merino Kids Go Go Bags have all the cool advantages of the snuggie/slanket/whatever off brand - without the silly sleeves.

I loved the little fleecy sleep bags when my daughter was an infant, but the bigger she got, the harder they were to find. And there was this little thing about needing to get her feet out to walk. . .

Problem solved. The sleeveless Go Go Bags zip from bottom to top, so you can leave them wide open for little legs to run or close up shop when they're ready for bed and need the extra warmth. Made in sizes newborn to twenty-four months and two to four years, they also take up space in the dresser longer than any kid clothing piece I've ever found - call it more bang for your buck.

There are winter weight sets for the really cold nights, but the merino wool of the summer sets breathes, letting kids who sleep in air-conditioned bedrooms stay warm without overheating.

Get them straight from BabySleepBags.

Cool Mint: Compact Combi Car Seat

Cathy Hale — Sat, 28 Mar 2009 20:00:00 GMT

Combi has introduced a lightweight compact car seat made exclusively for fuel efficient cars. Check out the stylish and sleek Combi Coccoro! It's perfect for travel because it only weighs 11 pounds. Since it's smaller, you can also fit three across in the back seat. (You know that's no easy feat.) It has all of the safety features you've come to expect from Combi and comes in a variety of colors. Rear-facing up to 33 pounds; forward-facing up to 40 pounds. Retails for $200 at Posh Tots.

Stroller Clearance: Quinny, Bugaboo & More

Cathy Hale — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 21:00:00 GMT

If you've had your eye on an upscale stroller, you can find some of your favorites on sale and in perfect condition. Baby products retailer, BabyEarth, has a selection of "Open Box" items in their Clearance section, including two Quinny Buzz strollers ($520 each), two Bugaboo Cameon strollers ($720 each), a Bugaboo Bee stroller ($476) and more. All of these items are in great condition, the box was just slightly damaged during delivery. Check out these fabulous strollers at BabyEarth. And if you don't find the one you want, check back often as they are always adding products.

The Babble Review: Baby Bee Diaper Bags

editors — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 19:35:00 GMT

As someone who prefers to tote the babies in a front carrier, the messenger type diaper bags have always been a pain in the back as well as the neck. It’s surprising the lack of backpack diaper bags currently on the market so I was anxious to get a load of the Fabien from Baby Bee Bags: a convertible backpack and stroller bag all in one.

In addition to the usual diaper bag accoutrements (separate, water-proof compartments, paci and cell phone holder) the Baby Bee offers an attached fold out changing pad, reducing the likelihood of leaving it behind in the café bathroom. Yep, done that.

While the buttery softness of the fabric is a delight for your shoulders, some of the color choices on the Bee are a little discotheque. Hey, that’s why there are options. Heading to your mom’s group? Check out the Fabien in Sky Brown. Going to a rave after? Pick the Sky Gold. It’s shiny, and will match your hot pants. – April Peveteaux

Get it at Baby Bee Bags for $95.99.

Laminated Diaper Bag AKA Your New Best Friend

Cathy Hale — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 02:00:00 GMT

Diaper bags have to endure quite a bit of abuse. They get tossed in the car, the trunk, the stroller, on the floor, etc. After a few months of wear and tear, it can easily look shabby. That's why I really like laminated diaper bags, like this Buckle Diaper Bag by Kalencom. The colors and patterns are fun, yet stylish, and it's so easy to clean. The bag is roomy with lots of pockets and compartments for everything you need to carry. Check it out at BabyEarth. Retails for $70.

Triple Stroller: The Big Caboose

Cathy Hale — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 22:00:00 GMT

I have lots of friends with three young children. I'm sure triple the hugs, triple the smiles and triple the laughter is great, but what about transporting these tots? The logistics of getting around with two can be a challenge. Well, my favorite stand-on double stroller, the Joovy Caboose, has a sibling now - the Joovy Big Caboose Stand-On Triple Stroller.

This is a great solution for traveling with three small children. Two get to ride in seats and one can sit on the padded jump seat or stand. Granted, the ride isn't super-duper luxurious, but if you need to get around with three kids safely in tow, it's hard to beat this stroller. Features include two full size seats with canopies, child trays, footrests and a large basket below. This stroller comes with two universal car seats attachments so you can easily use an infant seat.

Before you can fully appreciate the triple stroller, you've gotta get to know the double version. I bought mine in May 2008 and have loved it ever since. They've made many improvements to the newer ones, so they are even more accommodating now. Read more about the Big Caboose.