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JPMA Tips: Second Hand Baby Items

We teamed up with our friends at JPMA for helpful tips when it comes to second hand baby gear!

Take A Second Look At Second Hand Products

A new nursery can cost as little or as much as you are willing to spend. Whether by choice or necessity, parents are increasingly buying second hand baby products. From garage sales, auctions, thrift stores or friends and family, parents are finding ways to cut costs on baby gear.

Buying new products that meet current standards is the best option. However, if you are on a tight budget, buying second hand is a good alternative. But don’t ever compromise safety for price!

If you plan to use second hand baby gear, take a second look before you purchase or borrow it and be sure to follow a few guidelines to keep your baby safe and sound:

Ensure all of the manufacturer’s instructions and labeling is still intact and legible. Check to make sure the product hasn’t been recalled BEFORE you take it home. If this means coming back to the store and chancing the product is no longer available, it’s worth it.
Cribs and bassinets are a popular hand-me-down product because they often carry sentimental value if it’s passed down through generations. With the risk of hurting anyone’s feelings, it is really important to check that the crib or bassinet meets current safety standards such as crib slat width and corner post height just to name a few. Hand-me-down cribs and bassinets have a greater chance of missing parts since it’s most likely been reassembled numerous times and traveled.

Do borrow or buy second hand:

Clothes
Books
Maternity clothes
Basic toys that are in “like new” condition and can be easily cleaned

Do NOT borrow or buy second hand:

Car seats- It is impossible to know the car seat’s history and using one that has been involved in a crash could jeopardize its effectiveness. Most car seats expire about 5 or 6 years from the date of manufacture and using a car seat after it has expired could be dangerous.
Cribs- As a general practice, do not use second hand cribs or heirloom cribs handed down from other family members or those purchased at thrift stores or garage sales because they may not meet the most current safety standards or could have missing or broken parts or hardware.
Crib mattresses due to sanitary reasons.
BreastPump accessories due to sanitary reasons.

If you are considering buying second hand in order to stay on budget, it’s important to prioritize the baby gear you want to buy new. In an effort to be able to splurge on those new items, try keeping to your budget in other areas such as:

Breastfeed vs formula
Cloth diapers vs disposable diapers
Consider making your own baby food vs buying it
Borrow books from the local library vs buying them brand new
Register for those big ticket safety items you definitely want new like a crib, car seat, and stroller
Look for coupons or rebates
Find a car seat assistance program through hospitals or local health departments that sometimes provide car seats to families in need.

The Bottom Line!

Most importantly, err on the side of caution and safety and use your best judgment when buying second hand baby products or borrowing hand-me-downs from friends and family.

This means inspecting the product in detail. Don’t buy any product if it has loose, missing or broken parts, is moldy, rusty or has anything “out of sorts”.

JPMA is helping educate parents and caregivers on the importance of safely choosing and using baby products. For more tips, visit www.babysafetmonth.org.

Should You Take Lamaze, Hypnobirthing, or Bradley Childbirth Classes?

by Gugu Guru Leave a Comment

Pregnancy is a time of many questions, especially when it comes to preparing for baby’s arrival. Many parents wonder if they should take Lamaze, Hypnobirthing, or Bradley Childbirth Classes – and what are these classes, anyway?! Today’s post is a guest post from our friends at Arrow Birth. Read on to learn more about all of these classes and a special offer for friends of Gugu Guru on Arrow Birth‘s Virtual Education and Courses.

By Tara Campbell Lussier, Co-Founder of Arrow Birth

Very often one of the first steps after the news of the pregnancy settles in – is to look for a childbirth education class. With so many options available you may feel overwhelmed and not know which class is the right fit. Should you take a class in-person, or online (aka you don’t have to leave the couch)? Should you spend time preparing for a natural birth, or one with an epidural or even a c-section? Unlike our mothers before us, as these questions begin to surface the mothers-to-be of our generation will take to google to figure out which route is best for them. In this blog we’ve done the work for you – and added a new, modern alternative that we’re admittedly biased about. Let’s dive in, shall we?

Lamaze

If your mother (or grandmother) took a childbirth class, chances are it was Lamaze – it’s been around that long. Popularized by a French obstetrician by the same name in the 1950’s, the method prepares families for labor and birth through presentations on massage, breathing, and movement. Lamaze International has grown steadfastly since the 1950’s and is widely recognized when one thinks of childbirth education. The core of Lamaze’s teaching are based on the Lamaze Six Healthy Birth Practices; letting labor begin on its own, movement during labor, continuous labor support, avoiding unnecessary interventions, following mother’s urge to push, and keeping mother and baby together after birth. You can take a Lamaze class in-person, and limited classes are also available online.

Hypnobirthing

Hypnobirthing has gained popularity in recent years with the uptick in the desire for natural childbirth. There are many hypno-based classes available, and all of them focus on teaching students self-hypnosis which is said to facilitate deep relaxation throughout the labor and birth experience. To create the state of self-hypnosis, the mother uses visualizations, suggestions and affirmations that she has practiced prenatally. Very often in labor the mother will be listening to one of her guided visualizations to aid her in creating her state of self-hypnosis. Self-hypnosis during labor is said to reduce the fear and pain of a natural childbirth. Hypno-style classes are available in-person in most areas, and some are available online for self-paced study.

Bradley

The Bradley method was popularized by Dr. Bradley’s book, Husband Coached Childbirth, in the 1960’s, and continues to be a popular way to prepare for a natural childbirth. The premise of Bradley is to empower the husband, (or birth partner) to be able to advocate for his birthing person while in labor. It also relies on the premise that birth is a natural process and mothers should prepare for it through education, diet, and exercise during their pregnancies. Bradley strongly supports having a labor coach throughout labor and birth, and very often this is the birth partner, or husband. Bradley classes are in-person and twelve weeks long.

Arrow

Arrow is definitely the new kid on the block as far childbirth education goes with their cutting-edge digital platform. Arrow’s Discover Birth Education Course is entirely online and geared towards today’s modern parents. Discover prepares you for any type of birth you may have – natural, medicated and/or cesarean. It was important to the founders to teach every type of birth because experience (as long time doulas) taught them you never know how babies may want or need to be born. Discover is taught by 35+ birth related experts such as OBGYNs, Midwives and doulas on topics they know best so students are always getting information from the correct source. Discover is available exclusively online at arrowbirth.com/learn.

There are many options when it comes to educating yourself for the magical and momentous birth of your baby. Just like we would tell you in labor and birth – explore your options and make an informed decision that’s best for you and your (growing) family. Happy Birthing!

Special Discount for Gugu Guru readers: head to Arrow Birth and use code GUGUGURU to purchase Arrow Birth’s Discover Course for $149 (normally $349)

Best Zip-Up Baby Swaddle

by Gugu Guru 2 Comments

They say necessity is the mother of invention, and that seems to be the case for our top baby swaddle pick, the Love to Dream Swaddle. When founder Hana-Lia Krawchuk had her first child, she quickly realized that he slept better with his arms up, out of the constraint of the baby swaddle; after much research and reading, she found that medical science suggests that babies really can sleep better if they have access to their hands for self-soothing. Using her skills as an experienced fashion designer, Hana spent many hours, days and weeks refining, simplifying, sampling and resampling the very first version of the signature Love to Dream Swaddle UP baby swaddle. By the following year, Swaddle UP hit the stores, and the Love To Dream story had begun.

So, what makes the Love to Dream Swaddle UP Original baby swaddle different than other baby swaddles? Simply put, the Love To Dream Swaddle UP Original is the only zip-up swaddle that allows babies to sleep in the natural position with hands safely up in the wings. Allowing babies to sleep safely with their arms up may actually help babies sleep better – and when babies sleep more soundly, the whole house does! This baby swaddle is revolutionary for helping babies sleep longer and more soundly. For, the way babies settle themselves to sleep is by sucking on their hands and gently rubbing their cheeks; this is called self-soothing, and this helps baby fall back asleep, and makes for a better sleep for parents as well. By having their hands safely out of the swaddle, babies can help themselves self soothe back to sleep.

Love to Dream has recently released their limited edition Swaddle UP Rainbow pattern created to celebrate Rainbow Babies. $5 from every purchase will be donated to First Candle, a charity dedicated to reducing SIDS and providing bereavement support for families.

A baby swaddle is also known for keeping babies feeling snug, as they did in the womb, and the Love to Dream Swaddle UP mimics that feeling as well. The snug fit over the torso makes babies feel secure, as in the womb, and helps to calm their natural startle reflex. From waist down a hip-healthy design allowing hips and legs to flex naturally, so baby can comfortably move around without the worry of anything near baby’s face, such as a blanket. Since their hands are covered, but accessible, the Swaddle UP baby swaddle is ideal for babies with sharp little fingernails since they can soothe themselves by rubbing their cheeks without the worry of scratching themselves. Parents love the Swaddle UP Original because it allows for babies to have access to their little hands and can suck on them, rub their hands on their face, and thus self-soothe.

Love to Dream didn’t just consider parents when creating Swaddle UP baby swaddles, however, they also created it to make life easy on the family, too! The Love to Dream Swaddle UP baby swaddles feature a genius two-way zipper for easy diaper changes; this means you don’t need to take the baby out of the baby swaddle for those dreaded middle of the night diaper changes – simply zipper and you’re good to go back to sleep. Plus, a traditional baby swaddle can be a little tricky to master at times, which means you run the risk of someone swaddling the baby incorrectly; however, the Swaddle UP baby swaddle is easy to put on and off for family members, babysitters and others. There is no learning curve as with traditional swaddling with a blanket, and there are no worries about unraveling when baby sleeps.

Love to Dream not only makes baby swaddles for infants, but can grow with your child as well. The Love To Dream Swaddle UP™ 50/50 (Stage 2) features zip-off wings, so as baby gets older and doesn’t need to be as tightly swaddled, they can have their hands free; and the Love To Dream Sleep Suit and Sleep Bag (Stage 3) of the Love To Dream sleep system are a safe way your toddler can sleep without getting overheated or worry about blankets. If you’re going to be adding swaddle blankets to your baby registry, skip the traditional blanket and opt for the Love to Dream Swaddle UP baby swaddle, as it will not only help baby sleep better, but make your life easier, too!

Find the Love to Dream Swaddle at Target here.

You can find Love to Dream on Instagram and Facebook, too. Looking for the best diaper pail to add to your registry? See why we love the Dékor Diaper Pail.

Claire Holt’s Motherhood Must-Haves

by Abby Ludwig Leave a Comment

We are so excited to have teamed up with Claire Holt again to highlight her favorite products now that her little guy has turned one! In the blink of an eye, her cutie has gone from infancy to rolling over, then eating and is now on the move! Here are some of Claire’s top must-haves that have helped her throughout her first year and beyond as a new mom! Plus, we love Claire’s social media posts about motherhood, especially as she gets ready to welcome baby #2– be sure to follow her on Instagram!

Fourth Trimester Must-Haves

Baby K’tan: I really loved using this wrap when James was a newborn. He instantly calmed when I wore him and it allowed me to actually get things done! It was so easy to put on (which was very important to me as I struggled with some of the other ‘rubix cube’ wraps), and I was able to pop it in the washing machine to keep it clean. Highly recommend!

Magnetic Me Onesies: These are a MUST!!! We tried many different types of onesies and these are the clear winners. They are so easy to snap, which is crucial for middle of the night changing and bath time fussiness. I love love love love this brand.

aden + anais Swaddles/Blankets: SO beautiful, soft, and very high quality. We really love these and they make great gifts!

Diaper Dékor Plus: The best part about this pail is how easy it is to empty. You simply cut the continuous liner on the side of the pail, tie a knot, and you’re good to go. It’s handsfree and really effective at trapping odors.

Travel Must-Haves

Doona Car Seat/Stroller: This is my absolute favorite baby product. We traveled with James from a very young age and this car seat/stroller made our lives so much easier. It’s lightweight, durable, very comfortable, and switches easily between the two modes. My only wish is that it came in a bigger size, as James grew out of it by 6 months. This is a MUST HAVE if you plan on traveling or just want to save a little space in your home!

Hatch Baby Sound Machine: Awesome product for home or on-the-go. It has such a wide variety of sound options and also works as a night light. We travel with it everywhere – it really helps to keep him in a deep sleep

4moms Breeze Playard: Really great for travel – so easy to set up and pack away. The mattress is super comfortable. We use this for sleep and for playtime.

Skip Hop Pronto Portable Changer: Really great for those times when you don’t want to lug around a large diaper bag. I found it very useful when I had to change him in places with limited space (like a plane bathroom!).

Ergobaby Omni 360 Carrier– I really love this carrier! It’s so easy to use and James loves facing both inward and outward. It was invaluable on my recent trip to Australia – I walked up and down the plane aisle wearing him for many hours. It saved my back and my sanity. While I love the Baby K’tan for newborns, this worked better for me once James got a little bigger.

On-The-Go Must-Haves

Nuna Pipa: We brought James home from this hospital in this car seat and I used this when we weren’t traveling until he was around 6 months old. The Nuna Pipa is a great design and James always seemed very comfortable in it. Safety is obviously the main priority and I always felt confident that he was safe and secure.

Peg Perego Primo Viaggio Convertible Car Seat– Obsessed with this seat. Now that James is bigger he is much more comfortable in this style. It’s beautifully made, very secure, and easy to clean. Huge fan.

Artipoppe Carrier: Another of my favorite carriers. This carrier is SO gorgeous. The quality is incredible, the patterns are really unique, and when I’m wearing it, strangers always ask about it!

Silver Cross Jet: LOVE this travel stroller. It’s so simple to fold, becomes incredibly compact, and most importantly is super comfortable. It also looks really stylish. James even prefers this stroller over the larger version. So glad silver cross released this model!

Sleep Must-Haves

Colgate Natural I Crib Mattress: Love that this mattress is eco-friendly and all natural. It’s hypoallergenic, very safe, and very comfortable.

Magic Merlin Sleepsuit: This suit was really helpful when we transitioned James from the swaddle. He slept really well and most importantly was safe in his crib. We didn’t use it for long but it was a very valuable tool when we needed it.

Crane Humidifer: We use this in the winter months. I like that it dispenses a cool mist making it safe for infants. The design is stylish and it’s easy to use.

Breathable Crib Liners: This liner stops James from getting his arms and legs caught in the crib bars. Love that it doesn’t restrict airflow and is a safer alternative to crib bumpers.

Playtime Must-Haves

4moms mamaRoo4: An excellent infant seat option starting right at the newborn stage. This seat has multiple movement patterns and is a great way to keep baby calm during playtime!

Monti Kids: I am a huge fan of Montessori and love that this is an age-appropriate subscription service. The wooden toys are beautifully made and specifically designed for development. The subscription provides parents/caregivers with access to the Monti Kids Learning Centre, which gives instructions and shares research. I did have an issue with the Level 1 mobile. I couldn’t collapse it and took up a large amount of space. Upon checking their website, it seems that they’ve addressed this and the new mobile is adjustable! All of the other toys are really great.

Toki Play Mat: Really great for newborns, it’s made of very soft organic material and has a machine washable cover. It’s portable and comes in lots of great prints.

People Toy Company- Mochi blocks: James is obsessed with these toys! I love that they’re free of harmful chemicals and made from rice – makes me feel better when they spend most of the time in his mouth!

DockATot: The DockATot does an amazing job at keeping the baby cozy. Great for supervised lounging and playtime. Plus it is super portable.

Feeding Must-Haves

Comotomo Bottles: These bottles are the best! We tried glass at first, but they were heavy and I was always worried about dropping them. I love that the Comotomo is made of food-grade silicone, easy to clean, and the nipple mound is quite large, which resembles a breast. By far James’ favorite type of bottle.

Boon Lawn Drying Rack: Large, easy to clean, and keeps the bottles in place as they dry. It seems very simple but I tried a number of different racks and this was the best.

Inglesina Fast Table chair: This is so great for travel! He does much better in this than a traditional restaurant high chair. Easy to clean and very comfortable.

Wabi Baby UV Sterilizer: Another of my must-have items. Great design, highly effective, and easy to use. Sterilizes and dries toys and bottles very quickly. We love it so much that despite the size, we packed it in the back of the car and brought it on vacation with us. (Side note – the Wabi Baby UV Sterilizer is currently

Beaba Babycook: We make our own organic food for James when we can (it’s a little more difficult when traveling), and this product makes it very easy. It steams AND purees the food, which means less equipment and fewer dishes! We have transitioned to more textures so don’t use the puree function as much anymore, but we still use it to steam fruits/veggies.

Clothing Must-Haves

Saint Haven Clothing: I am in love with these clothes. They are so soft yet incredibly durable. James lives in the one-pieces.

Little Crowns NYC Hats: The most adorable little hats. Super stylish and adjustable as they grow. Most importantly, he never tries to rip them off!

Thank you SO much to Claire for all of her insight and photos of her little guy and his favorite items.

Target Lovers: Here’s Your Ultimate Baby Checklist from Nanobebe

by Gugu Guru Leave a Comment

When it comes to preparing for baby, it makes everyone’s lives a little easier when everything you need for feeding is at one store, so we thought it would be helpful to round up our must-have Nanobebe items from Target, as let’s be honest, who doesn’t stop into Target 4 times a week?

Nanobebe is known for their award-winning innovative baby products, especially their baby bottle. In fact, the nanobébé bottle made the TIME Magazine’s 50 best inventions of the year list and was named “the smartest baby bottle ever made” by Business Insider. The nanobébé bottle is the first and only bottle for your little one specially designed to preserve essential breastmilk nutrients. Many working moms love the nanobebe bottle because it makes transitioning from breastfeeding to bottle feeding easier for both mom and baby.

The nanobébé Breastmilk Storage Bags & Organizer is the perfect companion for the bottles, especially if you’re pumping and storing milk for later. The leak-free bags feature an innovative design that holds milk in a shallow layer so it can cool quickly and thaw evenly to preserve the nutrients in breastmilk. The nanobébé breastmilk storage bags have serious leak-protection with a double zipper that seals securely, so you can pump and save your milk without worrying. The breastmilk organizer helps keep the flat bags stacked, helping you stay organized and easing your mind about heading to work or out for the night, as you can rest easy your milk will be organized and there when needed.

If you’re on the go with or without baby and need to store the breastmilk, the nanobébé Cooler and Travel Bag is designed with your baby’s needs in mind; whether the travel cooler is for storing your breastmilk at daycare with your little one or for family travel, you can be sure that precious breastmilk nutrients are being protected with three layers of insulation. Designed with the modern parent in mind, its sleek style is also convenient, as you can quickly store and go thanks to the stackable shape of nanobébé’s breastmilk bottles! You can pack up to three bottles in this cooler and the included compact ice pack keeps your breastmilk cold for several hours. It also fits extra feeding necessities, like nipples, pacifiers, pump parts, and more.

If it’s easier to buy everything at once, check out the Complete Newborn Baby Bottle Gift Set & Accessories, which includes everything a new parent needs for feeding, such as the award-winning nanobébé Breastmilk Bottles, a non-electric Smart Warming Bowl for quick and even warming of breastmilk, a Microwave Steam Sterilizer (which quickly eliminates household bacteria in under 4 minutes), and a space-saving slim Drying Rack for all of your feeding/pump parts (stores at just a 1/2 inch with removable, adjustable pegs that can be tucked away in the breathable, germ-free base). The set also features essential accessories such as medium flow and slow flow nipples, breast pump adaptors, and extra soft Flexy Pacifiers designed to stay in place and fit perfectly to baby’s face. Or, check out the Starter Set with Warmers & Pacifiers, which includes the bottles, warmer and pacifiers. These make a great baby shower gift!

PS. Use code NANO20 for 20% off Nanobebe sets on Target.com

Newborn Bath Newcomer – Lavelu Lounger

by Gugu Guru 1 Comment

There is a newborn bath newcomer in town that we want to tell you about – the Lavelu Lounger. If you have a newborn or a little one on the way, you should definitely check out this newborn bath sink insert. The Lavelu Lounger is an innovative super comfy, ergonomic infant lounger to use in your sink*. It is a universal cushion, which means it is constructed in a flexible and form-fitting design that will be comfortable for baby in almost all kitchen and bathroom sink types. The Lavelu Lounger ensures both a safe and enjoyable newborn bathing experience for your little one.

So why are we loving the Lavelu Lounger? Did you know that some babies hate bath time? This is sometimes because the baby is cold or just plain uncomfortable on the insert. Parents love that the Lavelu lounger is not a stiff, hard sink insert like the other products out there. The mom-invented Lavelu Lounger is the only universal, fully supportive, baby sink bath insert designed to conform to your baby’s body shape, providing ultimate head and neck support in any sink. It will really fit in any sink type – square, round, kitchen or bathroom sink; RV, camper, home or hotel, you can take the Lounger with you wherever you go!

The Lavelu is also a unique newborn bath cushion because it is waterproof. Made with unique (and extra soft!) material, the sink bath Lounger is designed to dry quickly and efficiently by simply hanging from your shower rod or towel rack. Many other sink inserts that we have tried out don’t offer this same ease of cleaning – not the Lavelu Lounger! Simply use it, drain it, squeeze it, hang it!

**It’s important to note that the Lavelu is NOT
intended to be used in anything but a sink.**

By the way, the Lavelu lounger comes with a satisfaction guarantee! We think that Lavelu would make an awesome baby shower gift, especially when paired up with some comfy towels and safe baby skincare.

Check it out: we also feature the Lavelu Lounger in our post about family RV travel with an infant because it is the ultimate sink insert when you’re hitting the road.

Thank you to our partner OA Creative – the makers of the Lavelu Lounger for making this sponsored post possible. Please note that this post uses Amazon affiliate links.

Family RV Travel with a Baby – FAQs

by Gugu Guru Leave a Comment

Family RV trips are increasingly popular right now due to travel restrictions around the world. However, if you have an infant and you’ve never traveled in an RV or camper before – you probably have lots of questions about how to select an RV and what you’ll need to ensure your family is comfortable. Don’t worry – we have you covered! We are so excited to be teaming up with two experts for this piece on family RV travel with your babe: RVshare and RV mama & travel blogger Shannan Panganiban. And, as a bonus, we’re including some of the jaw-droppingly gorgeous RVs available from our friends at RVShare.

Family RV trips or even extended living is totally possible with a little one! In fact, taking an infant in an RV or camper is a great time to do so, because with all the amazing products for small spaces available now, you or your baby won’t ever have to feel uncomfortable while on the road. RV travel is also an affordable and unique experience that will give your whole family memories of a lifetime!

Here are some of my best tips for family RV tripping with babies:

When it comes to gear and baby products, always think about any additions to the space before bringing something new in. Does this product fit your space well? Does it serve multiple purposes? In a small space like an RV, making sure that everything is a necessity and can transform to your area is huge.
Have a mindset of “I get to travel!” versus “I can’t have this.” AKA have an attitude of gratitude. Living and traveling tiny – for however long you decide to do so – is an awesome experience and instead of focusing on what won’t work in your family RV space, changing your mindset to be “I GET to take this adventure” can really help remind you why you are doing this and the incredible memories that will come with it.
Get a comfortable car seat for your baby! With all the time that you will be spending driving, having a car seat that is cozy and comfortable for baby will make everyone’s life just that much easier. Remember: if you are traveling in a tow behind camper, then the family will be in your towing vehicle just like any drive. Also, if in a motorhome, the car seat can NEVER be in a front seat. Most RV’s have seats with latches to secure a car seat in the back.
Make sure that there are no loose objects when you travel. For everyone’s safety, but especially for the safety of your baby, make sure that there is nothing that could be a projectile when you are on the road. This is one of the most important steps – securing your family RV for travel – to ensure safety along the way.
Use a white noise machine. You are in a small space & you will get to hear just about every sound in your RV. Turning on a white noise machine for baby while they sleep will help drown out the sounds from the rest of the camper. Living and traveling in an RV is unique, but you can keep a schedule just like you normally would. Most RV’s have a door to the bedroom or a curtain of some kind. Dividing the space and creating a bed time routine as normal can help babies feel comfortable and secure in order to fall asleep just as they would in their own room at home.
Choose campsites wisely! Finding places that are family friendly and rated for a safe environment are important factors to look into when choosing new family RV destinations to camp at safely.

And what about baby must-have products for family RV travel?

The Lavalu Lounger is perfect for RVs. Photo courtesy of Karissa Ries.

An adjustable bath is a must for a baby! Not only will it make bath time easier to have a tub that they really fit in, but you can flatten it out for easy storage when it is not in use. Gugu Guru loves the Lavelu Lounger universal sink bathing insert.
As far as a comfortable car seat that exceeds safety standards goes, Gugu Guru loves the revolutionary Clek Liingo – an infant car seat that does not require a base.
A small white noise machine will be a great investment to drown out any sounds from the rest of the RV while baby naps! Gugu Guru loves the Yogasleep Travel Mini.
A high chair that attaches to the table will allow you to have a safe place for baby to sit and eat without having to take up extra space with a free standing chair. Also, you can remove it and bring it outside to attach to a picnic table. Gugu Guru loves the Chicco QuickSeat Hook-on Chai r.
A portable bottle warmer is key if your babe is used to receiving warmed milk. Gugu Guru loves the battery operated bottle warmer from The Baby’s Brew.

Your Family RV Travel Frequently Asked Questions Answered by RVShare

What’s the biggest mistake first-time RV renters make?
The most important thing a first time RVer can do is get a thorough walk-through of the unit from the owner. Things like operating the generator, electrical hookups and dumping the water tanks are all crucial to using the RV, and need to be done properly. A common rookie mistake is not knowing how to operate the awning if the RV you’re staying in has one. Even things that seem simple might be a little tricky, and it’s important to read any manuals provided by the owner carefully, and ask as many questions as you have.

What kind of RV should I rent? What are the types and differences between them? How much room will I need for a family of four?
You do not need a special driver’s license to drive an RV. The two biggest things to consider when choosing an RV is whether you want to tow or drive it and how many people will be sleeping inside. If you prefer to drive it, you need to decide your comfort level, we compare mid-sized options to driving a truck, and large options to driving a bus. If you want to tow, you need to make sure your tow vehicle can accommodate the trailer. Finally, consider the amenities that are important to you. You can find full functioning kitchens and bathrooms, a fun outdoor space, or a unit that allows pets.

You’ll be surprised how comfortable a family of four can fit into even the smaller RVs! Many RVs have creative layouts that optimize space and comfort. This typically includes bunk beds for kids and slide-outs for the kitchen and living room spaces. Each family is unique, but Class C’s are a great place to begin your search for a family of four.

Can I give my rental a test-drive? Or have a look first?
Yes, you’ll be able to spend time with the owner before you drive off in the RV. Most owners will go on a test-drive with you, as well as walk you through electrical and water hook-ups to make sure you are comfortable with everything. They are also very helpful with answering any questions that come up once you hit the road.

I realize the cost varies with style and size, but what can I expect to pay on average, per night?
Yes, it does vary. The average rental is about $150 including all fees and taxes.

Besides a per night fee, are there other costs to consider?
Yes, there are other fees to consider. However, since each RV rentals on RVshare are independently owned, fees can vary and are at the owner’s discretion. Potential fees can be for cleaning, dumping waste and used water, insurance, or other service charges. The owners can optionally charge for excess mileage and excess generator usage. All charges will be listed out on your quote prior to booking.

Are kitchen supplies, bedding, grills included? Can you bring your own or rent from the RV rental company? Are these usually included in RVShare rentals?
Included amenities also can vary between listings, but you will typically find all that you’ll need for your trip, including kitchen supplies and linens are provided. We always recommend checking with the RV owner prior to booking to see what is included if it does not say in the listing.

What other amenities might be available?
Listings on RVshare also include options for deliverable and stationary RVs. For delivery, the RV can either be delivered to the final destination, meaning no driving for the renter, or the owner can meet somewhere along the renter’s journey.

For stationary rentals, the RV is already parked, set up, and ready to go. This means no driving for the renter, as the RV is typically parked permanently at a campsite or on the owner’s property.

There are also options to instantly book, too. You don’t have to wait 24-48 hours for the owner to confirm.

Gas mileage: what’s the average?
Gas mileage varies on the type of RV. You can expect about 6-8 mpg with a large Class A, 18-25 mpg for a Class B, 8-13 mpg for a Class C, and 10-18 mpg for a fifth wheel travel trailer.

What about insurance: is it included? Will I have to purchase extra? What’s your recommendation?
Standard insurance coverage will be automatically included in the quote when booking an RV that is covered by RVshare Rental Insurance. Standard coverage includes up to $200,000 in comprehensive and collision coverage, as well as free 24/7 roadside assistance. Renters have the opportunity to pay for upgraded coverage at the time of booking.

I’m worried about driving and parking an RV. Any advice?
That’s understandable – a lot of people are nervous to drive an RV at first! But most RVs are not much different than driving a large truck. Keep in mind these tips when driving and parking your RV:

Familiarize yourself with controls before driving
Start slow and allow yourself to get used to the new perspective. You’re probably not used to sitting up that high!
Re-calibrate your brakes and turns
When in doubt, stop and get out to check your surroundings

What happens if I breakdown? Should I buy an extra roadside assistance policy?
Every RV rented through RVshare includes 24/7 emergency roadside assistance. This includes services for: towing service, tire service, emergency supply delivery, battery service, lockout service, and extraction and winching service.

Planning: how much should I plan out my trip? Should I make reservations in advance?
It’s appealing to hop in an RV and see where you end up, but we definitely recommend making reservations in advance, especially if you’re new to RVing. And actually, in the current climate, that is pretty much required by campgrounds across the country. Having reservations planned ahead of time also takes stress out of needing to find somewhere to park at the end of the day. Along this same line, we’d recommend making sure you get checked into your site before dusk, that way you’re not rushing to get the RV set up when it gets dark.

Will most campgrounds be able to handle my RV?
Yes, most campgrounds have sites specifically for RVs. These sites tend to include electrical and water hookups.

Any other tips you’d offer first-timers?
While we just shared some of our favorite planning tips, I’d also say to keep an open mind! You never know what can come up in your journey, from weather changes to construction. So do your best to have some flexibility with your planning and don’t let any speed bumps (pun intended!) ruin your vacation!

Check out these family RV rentals that we love from RVShare. All of these RVs sleep at least a family of four and are insanely stylish!

Luxury Adventure Campervan

Farmhouse Chic on Wheels (pet friendly!)

2019 Airstream Sport

Bambi in Wanderland

About Shannan Panganiban
Shannan is the author of the blog Faithfully Beautiful – a space to inspire the love and adventure of traveling with kids as well as simplifying and creating a happier mom life. As a mama of 3 little boys, Shannan shares her journey of creating a life she loves and encourages other mothers to find their passion and live it well. Learn more at https://faithfullybeautiful.com and follow Shannon on Instagram at @faithfullyshannan

About RVshare
RVshare is the first and largest peer-to-peer RV rental marketplace. With more than 100,000 vehicles available, RVshare’s diverse inventory ranges from affordable travel trailers to luxury motorhomes and can accommodate any outdoor adventure, whether it’s a weekend of camping or a cross-country tour of national parks. If a renter wants the comforts of home while getting up close and personal with the beautiful world around them, an RV rental is the best place to start. With thousands of satisfied customers and a broad inventory ranging from travel trailers to luxury motorhomes, we have the perfect RV for any vacation, tailgate, or temporary lodging needs.

In addition to offering a unique travel experience, RVshare provides RV owners in North America the opportunity to turn their RV into a second income. We’re here to bring RV renters and RV owners together. RVshare allows for RV owners to generate revenue on an otherwise unused vehicle. Most RVs are used only 2 weeks out of the year.

Renter Benefits

RVshare offers a worry free rental guarantee that offers payment and fraud protection, 24-hour customer service and roadside assistance
Wide-ranging Inventory: From affordable pop-ups to luxury motorhomes
Largest RV Rental Marketplace: 60,000 five star reviews from happy customers
Safest And Most Trusted: 24/7 Emergency roadside assistance on every booking
Pet-friendly options
Delivery and stationary options
One-way rentals available
Comprehensive Nationwide Protection: RVshare Rental Insurance covers both domestic and international renters and provides collision and comprehensive coverage

Learn more at https://rvshare.com

The Village Reviews: Go Happy Kids Travel Tray

by Gugu Guru Leave a Comment

Traveling with little ones can certainly be an interesting journey, which is why we love any product that can help keep kids both entertained and organized during travel. We are huge fans of the Go Happy Kids Travel Tray, check out these real mom reviews below:

April: I recently had the opportunity to try the Go Happy Kids Travel Tray on a flight from NYC to LA with my nine-month-old little one. The first thing that occurred to me when I used the tray was that this product was clearly created by a parent. It’s the type of product you don’t even realize you need until you’re settled in on a flight with your little one and their snacks and toys are rolling off the small (and dirty) airplane tray. I also really liked that the tray has a slim profile that easily slips into a backpack, comes in a washable drawstring bag to protect it while not in use, and has a removable silicone cover that makes washing it super easy. You and your baby will both be happy with the Go Happy travel tray!

Erica: We love the versatility of this tray. Whether at home or on the go, the tray serves us well for Playdoh, snacks, reading, and coloring. The non-skid mat is great for travel or just unsteady toddler hands. It’s designed with sturdy, high-quality materials. It packs away well in the laptop pocket of a backpack. So many ways to use this!

Tiffany: I love this tray and so does my son! It works great to keep the crumbs contained!! It has a nice border to keep toys from falling off the edge easily! The strap can be a little tricky when stretching it a little farther but holds well! I wish it could clip onto the tray though. It came with a nice and sturdy carrying bag too! The tray and silicone liner both wipe off easily and the tray has a nonslip grip on the bottom for use on a table or other flat surface. All in all this tray makes eating and playing on the go much more convenient! This tray will be great for any trips.

Brooke: We love the Go Happy Kids Travel Tray! It’s so convenient and easy to clean. My daughter was able to play with her play-doh on the coffee table without getting it into all the crevices or on the carpet. It has also been perfect for holding our snacks while we cuddle up to watch a movie on the sofa.

Denalee: The tray was great on the plane! We had the bulk head seat so it wasn’t the normal tray but the travel tray still sat well on top of the plane tray. The adjustable strap kept it in place really well especially when Mikey was done and wanted to push it away quickly (it didn’t budge). We used the tray for eating and playing. There was plenty of room to play with play doh, stickers, and eat all at once. Plus when we had to fold of the plane tray to reach our bag or move it was really nice to not have to pack everything up or try and hold everything in our laps. The travel tray made it really simple to just pick up all the stuff at once and then easily put it back. Not only did the tray make the flight easier but we actually used the inside silicone part as a mat to eat off of at restaurants on our trip. It doesn’t stick as well to the table as mats made for this purpose but it works and was one less thing to worry about packing.

Lauren: The Go Happy Kids Travel Tray was a fantastic addition to our travel bag. The tray kept germs away and snacks and crayons close to my toddler! The strap and grippy material on the bottom of the tray prevented it from moving around during use.

Alyssa: I was so excited to test the Go Happy Kids: Travel Tray. On a recent plane trip I felt like I was constantly trying to retrieve things that rolled off the regular airplane seatback tray and this product seems to fix that problem with its silicone mat and lip around the edge. No more rogue crayons! Not to mention, it covers the regular tray completely and securely so you don’t have to worry about germs and wiping everything down with disinfecting wipes before your kid eats their snack. The handy travel pouch is a nice feature to transport the clean tray around.

Molly: There’s no question that traveling with kids can be difficult. Control some of the chaos, plus art supplies, cheerios, and toys with this sleek travel tray. With a universal raised edge and extra grippy bottom, it easily stays put on standard airline tray tables to keep kids plane essentials off the germiest surfaces and away from the floor. From air to at home, it’s perfect for particularly messy or tiny crafts, (think playdoh to beads). My kids (13,5,3) also use it for snacking and coloring. Bottom line, it’s a great, sturdy surface to use for work or play. Made from BPA-free plastic with a fully washable silicone liner that helps to secure and reign in all manner of travel distractions, the Go Happy Kids Travel Tray is a constant companion when on the go. I keep mine in the back pockets of the car for my two youngest kids to grab as needed. As a mom who spends a considerable percentage of my day picking up things that have fallen on the ground, rolled under a table or disappeared under a seat, the Go Happy Travel Tray is an activity/snack time lifesaver.

Check out these related travel posts:

The Best Travel Car Seat for Infants and Toddlers
Eco-Friendly Toddler Must-Haves for Traveling Families
Gugu Gift Guide: Family Travel Picks

Skin to Skin Baby Wearing – What to Know

by Gugu Guru Leave a Comment

Skin to skin baby wearing is such an important part of a parent’s life especially during the early months as it helps with bonding, breastmilk production and so much more. But what do you need in order to successfully perform skin to skin? Lori Bregman helps one new mama by answering some of her most pressing questions.

BONUS: After watching the video, test your knowledge in our fun skin to skin baby quiz and don’t forget to check out the awesome deal from our friends at NuRoo – creators of the amazing babywearing shirt the NuRoo Pocket.

Want to know your skin to skin baby wearing IQ? Take this quick quiz to test your knowledge and find out!

DEAL ALERT: Enjoy 25% OFF all NuRoo items (excluding gift cards) with code GUGUGURU at checkout: https://nuroobaby.com

About Lori Bregman: Lori Bregman is a renowned doula, life coach, author of Mamaste and The Mindful Mom To Be and co-founder of Seedlyfe Superoods. With over 19 years of experience, Lori works with moms-to-be and new moms on all aspects of their personal transformation from fertility through pregnancy and into new motherhood.
Website: https://loribregman.com
Instagram: @lbreggy

Follow Brittney Knudsen and her beautiful adventures in motherhood on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brittneyknudsen/

Like what you see? Here’s more information on the NuRoo Pocket.

JPMA Baby Safety Tips: Using the Right Car Seat For Your Child

by Gugu Guru Leave a Comment

We’re sharing some super helpful tips from our friends at JPMA – today’s post is all about using the right car seat for your baby or child.

Use the Right Car Seat for your Child!

One of the most common questions parents ask is, “What’s the best car seat?” The correct answer is quite subjective. The best car seat fits your child, fits your vehicle, and has features that will allow you to use it correctly and consistently. Many models have extra safety features, but these basic criteria need to be met first. Here are some basic selection guidelines:

Rear-Facing

Rear-facing car seats are the most protective way to restrain young children. They support the head, neck and back throughout the entire crash. Rear-facing only car seats are designed for the youngest passengers, and most include removable bases that can remain in the vehicle while the carrier portion is removed. Convertible car seats face the rear and then have a forward-facing harness mode for older kids. All-in-one car seats face the rear, then face the front, and later convert to booster seats.

Children should ride in rear-facing car seats until they are at least age 1 and as long as allowed by the manufacturer. Some instructions and state laws require children to ride rear-facing until at least age 2. Convertible or all-in-one models typically allow extended rear-facing use with higher weight and height limits for larger kids.

Forward-Facing with Harnesses

Once children outgrow the rear-facing weight or height limits, they should use forward-facing car seats with harnesses. Forward-facing seats spread crash forces across children’s thighs, hips, torsos and shoulders, and all current models include tether straps that connect to vehicle anchors. Tethers are safety features that many parents neglect to use, reducing crash performance. Convertible and all-in-one seats are still options, and combination seats offer forward-facing harness and booster modes.

Children should ride in forward-facing car seats from the time they outgrow rear-facing limits until they outgrow the weight or height limits of forward-facing harnesses. Most current models can be used forward-facing until children weigh between 50 and 65 pounds, and some models have even higher weight and height limits.

Belt-Positioning Booster Seats

When children first outgrow forward-facing harness limits, seat belts alone rarely fit. Lap belts end up on abdomens, shoulder belts on necks, and children tend to slouch more. Poor belt placement makes injury more likely and more severe. With booster seats, lap belts are guided to the strong upper thighs and lower hips, and shoulder belts cross the center of the chest and collarbone. Many models also allow children to bend their knees more naturally – minimizing slouching and maintaining good belt fit. Highback and backless models are available, and combination seats and all-in-one seats have booster modes.

Children should ride in belt-positioning boosters from the time they outgrow forward-facing harness limits until vehicle belts alone fit correctly (usually between ages 9 and 12). When children sit all the way back on vehicle seats, they should still be able to bend their knees naturally over the front edge. Lap belts should fit snugly across the upper thighs – touching the pelvic bones. Shoulder belts should cross children’s chests and collarbones.

Vehicle Seat Belts

When seat belts alone fit correctly, children should use lap and shoulder belts. Lap belts should fit snugly across the upper thighs and touch the pelvic bones, shoulder belts should cross the center of chests and collarbones, and knees should bend naturally while sitting all the way back. If any of these fit items are not met, children still need to be using boosters.

Children should ride in vehicle lap and shoulder belts when they fit correctly, and should continue using them through adulthood.

Regardless of the car seat you choose, it is important to read and follow car seat and vehicle instructions. Research shows that 50%-75% of car seats are not used according to the instructions, placing children at greater risk.

September is Baby Safety Month and this year, JPMA is helping educate parents and caregivers on the importance of safely choosing and using the right baby products for your family. Play our fun, interactive hidden hazards game and visit www.babysafetmonth.org for more tips and giveaways.

Check out our car seat quiz: [QUIZ]: What Infant Car Seat is Best for You?

And these related car seat posts:

The Best Travel Car Seat for Infants and Toddlers
Baby Safety Month: Strap in for Safety While On the Go with JPMA
Choosing the Best Car Seat Stroller Combo for You

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