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Sippy Cups vs Straw Cups vs 360 Cups

When it comes to sippy cups, the options can feel overwhelming. On top of different types of lids and styles as well as recommendations, the truth is that your child will end up having a preference when it comes to lid, shape, and style. Finding the one that fits your lifestyle while also appeasing your toddler’s tastes can take a little bit of trial and error. We’ve rounded up a variety of sippy cups in the traditional, straw, and 360 cup categories to help you get started with your toddler’s collection.

Traditional Sippy Cups

When you think about cups, your first thought may fall on the traditional sippy cup like the ones in this category. A lot of younger babies prefer to start with this type of lid when learning to drink from a cup. While the other two categories may provide your child with a few more dental and developmental benefits, the truth is your toddler will definitely prefer one type of cup over another. We found two great options for those who prefer this type of sippy cup.

Re-Play Sippy Cups

Why will you love these sippy cups? Let us count the ways: 1. They’re made in the USA! 2. They’re made from recycled milk jugs. 3. They’re BPA-free. 4. They’re leakproof. We know. They all say that, but this review really has us sold on the leakproof-ness of these particular cups. 5. They come in a lot of fun colors.

Thermos Foogoo Hard Spout Sippy Cup

This stainless steel sippy cup offers you more bang for your buck. You can use the cup with their three transitional lids. Start with the lid that features the traditional spout as well as handles. Then move on to the one without handles. Then when your toddler is ready, move on to the one with the straw. It will also save you time and money if you have two kids who prefer different types of sippy cup lids.

Straw Sippy Cups

Straw sippy cups are a great option for a variety of reasons. They help build lip, cheek, and tongue strength. They also help get your child used to straws for when they’re out and about and you happen to leave a cup at home. It’s a great transitional cup between traditional sippy cups and a regular drinking cup. We found some more great options for your toddler.

Green Sprouts Sip and Straw Cup

Our eco-conscious parents will love this cup as it’s made from glass. The liquids will only touch glass or the silicone straw. It’s BPA-free as well as free of various chemicals you want to keep away from your precious little one. It features a drip-free spout. Additionally, this particular cup comes with a variety of spouts to grow with your baby, including a traditional sippy, a straw spout, and a traditional straw. Cups that grow with your baby are definitely handy.

Nuk Everlast Weighted Straw Cup

How many times have you seen a toddler take a straw cup and tip it up as if it were a regular cup, only to find out they can’t get anything to drink that way? This straw sippy cup solves that problem. The weighted straw floats with the liquid inside the cup to make sure your toddler can drink from any angle. It’s basically (scientific) magic!

360 Cups

A 360 cup looks like a regular cup. Additionally, it will help your growing toddler learn to drink from a regular cup. They can drink from any angle through a valve all the way around the rim of the cup. Of course, because it’s valved like this, it helps prevent spills while your child is still learning how to drink and manage a cup. You’ll save yourself from some unnecessary clean ups by transitioning to this type of cup before going full force into the regular cup world!

Munchkin Miracle 360 Sippy Cup

We love that it’s BPA-free. You’ll love how it keeps spills from happening since the valve seals when your child stops drinking. Your toddler will love drinking like the big kids. Additionally, it’s easy to clean with no extra valves or parts. Easy to clean feels important when you’re busy chasing a toddler around the house.

Dr. Brown’s Cheers 360 Spoutless Transition Sippy Cup

This version of the 360 cup is translucent so you can see when it’s time for a refill. Like the Munchkin cup, it’s BPA free so you can feel good about your choice. Like the others, it offers leak-free learning, making life feel a little bit easier for you.

What are your favorite sippy cups? More importantly, which sippy cup does your toddler prefer?

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Snuggle Up in the Snow: Winter Baby and Toddler Must-Haves

by Jenna Hatfield Leave a Comment

As you enter into your second, third, or even fourth winter with your older baby or toddler, you might need to add some items to your household. You’ve already collected and used the ones we’ve suggested on our winter newborn list. Now your active little one needs more things to round out their cold-weather experience.

Looking for our best winter gear for your baby? Check out our must-haves here.

Winter Sleepwear

ergoPouch Jersey Sleeping Bag 3.5 TOG

For your older babies who are still loving the sleep sack style, this ergoPouch sleeping bag is a great option. It’s rated 3.5 TOG, which is good for temps down to 57 degrees. Your little sleeper will stay warm and cozy all winter long.

ergoPouch Sleep Onesie 2.5 TOG

And for the walkers, grab this sleep onesie, which has a 2.5 TOG rating. It’s good for temperatures down to 63 degrees. Your toddler can run circles around you and stay warm at the same time.

Snow Wear

Baby ColdControl Max Puffer One Piece

If you live in a colder climate with snow potential, you’re going to want some snow gear. This one-piece snow suit from Gap offers a simple gender-neutral option. We also like offerings from L.L. Bean and Land’s End for some more colorful picks.

Buffalo Check Sherpa Hat

Your little snow bear is going to need a hat, and this one from Carter’s stole our hearts. Buffalo check and ear flaps? Yes, please.

Cozie Fleece Mitten

When it comes to gloves, this set has the trick we love. You fish the string through both sleeves and, voila! Your toddler can’t lose their gloves in the snow. Or in the car. Or while getting their coat on at daycare. You get the point. You’ll spend less time looking for missing gloves. That’s a definite win.

Toddler Denver Winter Boots

Keep their toes warm with these cute snow boots from Cat + Jack. There are a variety of color options to pair with whatever snowsuit you choose. The velcro closure makes them easy on and off, a must-have for trying to get toddlers dressed for snow time. (You’ll be in a race to get them dressed, yourself dressed, and everyone out the door before you or your child overheat!)

Outdoor Travel

Larktale Chit Chat Stroller, Rain Cover, and Foot Muff

Start with the Larktale Chit Chat, a great stroller for all of your adventures. Then, as the winter season arrives, add the Rain Cover so you can still get out for a walk even on the not-so-perfect days. Lastly, for cold days, add in the foot muff to keep your baby’s tootsies nice and toasty.

See what some of our moms had to say about the Larktale Chit Chat here.

Sherpa-Lined 3-in-1 Maternity Hoodie

Pair this jacket with your favorite baby carrier, and you’ll both stay warm and toasty. It features a zip-in panel to fit over any carrier or sling. Throw this on and head out for a winter hike you’ll remember for the rest of your life. Looking for a great carrier? Check out our Baby Carrier Quiz to narrow down your choices.

Kids’ Pull Sled and Cushion Set

Not wanting to go for a stroll or a babywearing hike? How about pulling this adorable sled through the snow? Or even the double version of it? Or perhaps you want to push a sled? Whatever the case, these sleds are heirloom quality and can be handed down for generations to come. (Plus, how cute are they? Goodness!)

Winter Health & Wellness

Earth Mama Organics Baby Face Nose & Cheek Balm

If you spend as much time playing outside as your toddler wants to, they might end up with some chapped cheeks. Rub some of the Face, Nose & Cheek Balm from Earth Mama on them to help soothe and moisturize. It’s certified organic and free from stuff you don’t want on your baby’s sensitive skin!

These things will add some joy to the winter season as you make memories with your little one.

Crane’s Select Cordless Breast Pump: Our Village Weighs In

by Abby Ludwig Leave a Comment

The company behind our go-to humidifiers and air purifiers has allowed members from our Gugu Village to test their Select Cordless Electric Breast Pump. We had a number of new moms try out this pump. Some first-time moms, others are on baby #2 or #3, but we got lots of great feedback on this small, yet powerful pump.

Looking for the Deluxe Cordless Pump Review? Check it out here!

Jessica D.

I received this pump to try out and I honestly have nothing but good things to say. I love how I can take it anywhere with me because of how small and light it is. I had zero problems cleaning the pieces and it’s really easy to connect all the parts. I like the fact the flange has silicone to help create a suction but I do have a hard time trying to see if my nipple is inside the flange. Also, the pump is louder than other pumps I’ve tried but not loud enough to wake your little one if you pump in the room. Overall, I’ve really enjoyed using it!!

Haylee S.

The crane pump is more compact and easier to clean than the pump I was using before. The flanges are silicone which is a great feature and a lot more comfortable. The actual machine itself is very compact and easy for traveling and for on-the-go moms. I plan on bringing it with me on an upcoming trip. Overall great pump- wish I had this one when I first started.

Katie C.

I was given the opportunity to try the Crane Select Cordless Electric Breast Pump. This is a nice little pump with some great features. The pump is lightweight and rechargeable which I really like! The silicone inserts make pumping really comfortable once everything is all set up. That said, I did find it a bit awkward to get the flanges on when double pumping and using a hands-free bra. Because the silicone is opaque and there is only one piece for the flange/diaphragm/valve of the pump, it is hard to see if your nipples are in the right place. Having it all one piece also made it hard (and sometimes a bit messy) when finished pumping and trying to clean up. I found the suction/my output with this pump was good – I might have had high expectations from other reviews who felt like this pump was way better than other options. I think the suction is very good, especially for a portable pump, but it didn’t increase my output vs my pump in style. I like that there are two expression phases, but the pump doesn’t switch itself from one to the other and doesn’t remember previous settings. Increasing/decreasing the pump speed causes the pump to pause so the transitions aren’t as seamless as I would prefer.

Overall, I love how portable this pump is and it would be really great for traveling and the price point is great for someone looking to pump sometimes. That said I’m not sure I would love it for my full-time working – 3 pumps a day/5 days a week – pump, but I could be biased since I’ve used two different Medela pumps for 15+ months of pumping.

Brittany V.

I’ve been using this breast pump for two weeks and I’m really impressed. I’ve tried a few different ones now and I love that this one is smaller and that it’s cordless. It makes it really easy to take with me and use anywhere. This one is comfortable and works well. The bottles that come with it are of really great quality too. They’re a good size and shape and feel heavier like a nicer quality than a cheap bottle. It’s really easy to pump and then switch the top to have a nipple and use the bottle too. I’d definitely recommend it to someone looking for a portable/cordless pump.

Thank you to Crane-USA for allowing our moms to test out this awesome pump!

Check out more reviews and tips here:

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Brr-ing on the Snow: Creating a Registry for Your Winter Newborn

by Jenna Hatfield Leave a Comment

You’re about to welcome a winter newborn to your family in the next few months. What items should you add to your registry? What gear will make it easier to care for a brand new baby in the middle of the coldest and darkest months of the year?

We’ve put together a list of our top items that will make caring for your winter newborn feel like a breeze.

Newborn Smart Swaddle Sleepsack

Many newborns prefer being swaddled while sleeping. However, some babies end up waking up due to feeling too hot in the middle of the night. Try a Swaddle Ideal Temp from Halo to solve the problem. The swaddle features IntelliThread fibers which store the heat when your baby is warm and release it back to the baby when they cool off. It’s pretty fancy. If you are dealing with cooler sleeping space in general, we also love the Cocoon Swaddle Bag by ergoPouch which is rated 2.5 TOG and goes from swaddle to sleepsack for a seamless transition.

Winter Newborn Hats

You’ll want to keep your newborn’s head warm when you head out and about during the winter months. There are a billion and one options, from homemade finds on Etsy to this adorable polar bear hat from Melange Collection.

Humidifier

Get ahead of dry skin and congestion with a humidifier for your baby’s nursery. You’ll appreciate how the Crane 4-in-1 Cool Mist Humidifier doubles as a sound machine for your littles’ bedroom. Plus, the built-in light can change colors, making for both a relaxing ambiance and easy way to check on your sleeping newborn. Read more about our favorite humidifier, here.

Newborn Car Seat Cover

If you’ll be lugging your newborn’s car seat in and out of the elements, a car seat cover will help keep your baby warm and dry. The Multi-Use Cover from Copper Pearl will rise to the occasion in style. The cover comes in a wide variety of prints and colors, including seasonal options like this polar bear print. (As an aside, there are matching burp cloths, top knot hats, and more. It seems like a very cute, very slippery slope.) The reason we love these particular car seat covers lies with their multi-use. You can use it as a nursing cover as well or to keep germs away in the shopping cart!

Looking for something that will keep baby warm on the coldest days? Check out the Skip Hop Car Seat Cover, which stays safely on the outside of the car seat, but protects baby from snow, wind and cold!

Stroller with a Rain & Wind Cover Perfect for a Winter Newborn

When you’re feeling well enough to get out and about with your newborn, you won’t want the weather to impede on your energy level. A rain and wind cover for your stroller will help you get out and about when you can while keeping your baby warm and dry. Check out the Larktale coast Carry Cot Rain Cover which quickly snaps to your Carry Cot for the coast. The Carry Cot is perfect for sleeping newborns as well; just clip it on to the Coast Stroller, and you’ll be ready to go for all of your winter walks.

Add in some cozy blankets for cuddling together in your rocking chair as well as other items needed for all newborns, and not just those born in the winter, and you’re ready to welcome your winter newborn!

Toys, Toys, Toys: Holiday Gifts 2021

by Jenna Hatfield Leave a Comment

As you continue to check off your holiday list, you may be looking for unique toy ideas for the little ones in your life. We’ve put together a fun list full of unique toy options sure to please those sweet faces.

PlanToys Dancing Alligator

Every little one loves a vehicle to push and pull all over the floor as they learn to move on their own. Instead of a typical-looking car, go with this unique toy alligator from Plan Toys. The vibrant colors and fun design allow for imagination development. Additionally, the click-clack sound will please your toddlers as they move all over the house. You’ll also appreciate the use of non-toxic paints and dyes. You may also like the push car, too.

Just for Tots by MAD Silicone Baby Building Blocks

Get your baby ready for a future in architecture! Or you know, just help them be happy with some safe, age-appropriate building blocks. These blocks are made for babies ages three months and up, featuring different letters, numbers, textures, shapes, animals, and more. These unique toy blocks are made from soft silicone, perfect for your youngest builder.

Fat Brain Toys Inny Bin

Fat Brain Toys always has some of our top toy recommendations for your little ones. Focused on fine motor development, your kids will have a blast trying to get each item to fit inside the bin. The elastic straps stretch allowing your youngster to feel proud when they fit everything inside.

Melange Collection Elf Boy

We know you love Melange Collection toys for your babies. Give them a Christmas spin on their collection with this cute elf! We also have a large selection of Melange Collection items, including super cute holiday hats and vests as well as stockings and pillows. There are lots of unique toy options from Melange Collection!

Taco Tuesday Gift Set

Do you and your friends love to get together for Taco Tuesday every week? Are you all starting to bring along your new babies? This would make the perfect, funny gift for the newest baby in your group. Complete with lime and avocado teethers. How cute is this thing?

Big Little Universe Special Delivery Box for Newborns

For the newest arrivals, grab the Special Delivery Box from Big Little Universe. It comes with a bib, a silicone pacifier clip, a cotton bath mitt, a lion lovey, and more. It’s an easy way to deliver a bunch of unique toy gifts for the holidays—or any time—to a newborn.

Little BaeBae Pacifier/Teether PlushieClips

Have a little one who loves their pacifier and their lovey? Combine the two with this adorable PlushieClip. In addition to helping you keep track of the pacifier, your little one will love cuddling with the plushie. Plus, how cute is this llama?

BUMblebee Glowing Baby Buddy

Looking for a unique toy that goes from the tub to the nursery? Here it is! This light-up toy can act as a night light. It can accompany baby from diaper changes to the bathtub. It’s cute, BPA-free, and turns itself off after three minutes of inactivity.

What unique toy ideas are on your baby’s Christmas list? Looking for more inspiration? Check out our Infant Toy Guide.

The Best Developmental Toys for Babies Ages 0-12 Months

by Gugu Guru Leave a Comment

You may not think to add toys to your baby registry list, but there are a host of play items that can help babies develop some early age-appropriate skills. Developmental toys for babies also make for great baby shower gifts. When in doubt, gifting fun and smartly designed toys is always a winner! The trick is sneaking in a little something to make their brains work hard while still keeping them engaged and happy. Here, some of the best age-appropriate toys for babies: 0-12 months.

Sassy Sensory Developmental Ball

Fact: Babies love playing with balls. Another fact: They love anything with a funky texture. Making this ball a winner. Not to mention that it’s made for little hands to grab and play effectively. A must for any baby.

Melange Collection Stuffed Animals

Looking for gorgeous stuffed animals that your baby will continue to love as they grow? Melange Collection is full of high-quality (and beautiful!) stuffed animals that make an excellent keepsake for years!

Books

Starting your baby’s library from day one is a great way to expose them to colors, shapes, and sounds. They will learn so much through books and inherently begin to develop a love of reading. We like filling baby’s bookshelves with board books and these, which are truly indestructible.

Lamaze Play and Grow Freddie the Firefly

Every parent needs a toy to attach to the stroller or car seat to keep baby amused during travel time. We love the take-along toys from Lamaze, like Freddie the Firefly. Babies will love to play with the crinkly wings, peekabo mirror and clacking rings.

Teethers

Throughout the first year, your little one will explore loads of products through their mouth. Be prepared with a number of safe items for them to chew on whether they are looking for sensory input or getting new teeth. We love to have a variety of teethers to allow your little one to explore different textures.

Mouse Loves Pig

For years we have been recommending the toys from Mouse Loves Pig. The colorful ribbon wands are a perfect addition to baby’s first toy box. We also love their crinkle toys, which give great feedback to your little ones during tummy time each day.

Searching for other Playtime Must Haves?

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On-The-Go Must Have: Baby K’tan Diaper Bag

by Gugu Guru Leave a Comment

Let’s be frank. You already know (and LOVE) the Baby K’tan baby carriers. For years, they have been known as ‘the wrap without the wrap,’ and we can’t stop recommending them. They are simple to use, comfy for mom, and keep baby close. Did you know that your favorite carrier company also makes excellent diaper bags? We had moms from our Gugu Village test them out. Read below to see what they had to say and check them out on our shop for HUGE discounts!

Crystal, Mom of 2 – Sojourn Diaper Bag

So after going through a few diaper bags with my now 4-year-old, I kinda knew what I wanted and what I didn’t want. I knew one of the things I absolutely hated was rummaging through the organized bag to find what I wanted, to then end up with a messy bag. This in turn made me really despise using a diaper bag when my son came along. I love that it has a zipper that allows me to FULLY UNZIP THE BAG!! I can open it and see everything that I packed. It also has 9 POCKETS!! You hear that moms…9, one of which is an insulated pocket for refrigerated snacks and bottles and another dedicated pocket for wipes! I love the removable wet bag, especially during the summer months to just throw the swimsuits in there when we are done for the day. The best thing about all this is that it’s machine washable!!! I can just throw this baby in with the laundry and I’m done! I have to say that Baby K’tan really listened to moms and created a great all-in-one bag for many different lifestyles.

Anais, Mom of 2, Flex Diaper Bag

I am quite literally a mess. I love the idea of being organized and I do try, but my efforts always fall short. I love the Baby K’tan Flex!! It allows me to maintain a bit of my sanity while toting around 2 toddlers (3 & 1). With just the right amount of pockets and compartments, I can carry around essentials and leave them in there for the next time we go out. There’s an interior side mesh pocket that would fit my tumbler perfectly but I throw 2 pouches and a spoon in there for easy feeding. The bottom has a HUGE compartment for literally everything. I love the Flex because it allows me to carry the right amount of stuff for my kids. My absolute favorite feature of this diaper bag is that it has a soft shell and is super lightweight! I like wearing it messenger style and it just conforms to my body. It’s so comfortable I forget I’m wearing it. Comfort has become key for me. I even use this as a diaper caddy at home! I’ve found so many ways to use this and make it work for my kids and I.

Abby, Mom of 1, Sojourn Diaper Bag

The Baby K’tan Sojourn diaper bag backpack looks very luxurious and has many pockets. One of my favorite things about it is that it is machine washable but make sure to hang it to dry. The zippers are large and easy to grab. I do find that sometimes the zippers catch on the material. There are a couple pockets that are safe for electronics because of the protective cloth. There’s a bonus bag inside that is a removable wet bag. There is a detachable key fob and several pockets. If you look on the back side and unzip all the way, you will find a removable diaper changing pad. In this area is also a wipe holder and another pocket. Unfortunately, there is no space for diapers in this spot so I use the middle zipper area for them. On the side in between the two main zippers is a small insulated pocket. I do wish this pocket went all the way across the bag. I love this style of bags, but I think this would be better for a toddler/preschool age instead of infants unless you’re doing the basics.

Chelsea, Mom of 2, Flex Diaper Bag

As a busy mom with two young boys we pack what I feel like is an abundance of things. I’ve used backpacks to literal small duffle bags to find what works best for us. I’ve found the Baby K’tan Flex diaper bag as a great inbetween alternative. It’s very versatile as it can be carried as a handbag, with the should strap or the shoulder strap converts it into a backpack. It has many pockets for organizing and a great zippered bottom which provides cooler space. I really love the way it was designed, it’s been a perfect diaper bag for us.

Carly, Mom of 1, Sojourn Diaper Bag

The Baby K’tan Sojourn Backpack Diaper Bag is a wonderful option to take on your adventures with your little one(s)! It is extremely lightweight, has very comfortable straps, and is unexpectedly spacious. It fits everything that I need and more for a full day and night out with my toddler, and even has an insulated pouch for his cold food and drinks. Not to mention, it has a built in changing pad that makes diaper changing on-the-go easy to clean up. While it is roomy, it offers a little less organization than I personally would prefer. Since the interior is black, it makes it a little more difficult to see each compartment, making it a little more of a challenge to find all of my items, however, I feel as though the space on the inside is worth the slight inconvenience of not being able to find some items as quickly as preferred. Overall, I would recommend this lightweight and spacious backpack!

Thank you to Baby K’tan for allowing our moms to test these diaper bags!

Check out more reviews and tips here:

Crane’s Deluxe Cordless Breast Pump: Our Village Weighs In
Gamechanger for Bathtime: Moms Love Bubbsi
5 Moms Pamper their Feet with Barefoot Scientist

Our Virtual Gift Guide is Here!

by Abby Ludwig Leave a Comment

We have the BEST gift guide coming to you virtually this year! Click through the videos below to see our top recommended gifts of the season! Plus, we will be launching a HUGE giveaway on our Instagram Nov 20-24, that we don’t want you to miss!

Multi-Functional Must-Haves

Products that work well are fantastic. But, products that work well and in different ways or stages are the best! Take a peek above to see why Crane, Nomi, wander & roam, and Green Sprouts have some of our favorite multi-functional gifts this season.

All About Mom

Mamas, we’ve got you covered! The best gifts for you this holiday season to stay comfy all holiday season long. Kindred Bravely, House of Noa, and 1Thrive have some of our favorite items this year!

Keep it Clean! Keep it Healthy!

Tis the season for coughs, colds, and mess! We’re bringing you some of our favorite brands to keep things clean and healthy this holiday season. Nanobebe, MORI, Diaper Dekor and ChildLife Essentials have some of our favorites for clean and healthy gifts this holiday season!

Great Gifts

Here is a great round up, going all in on great gift ideas. Looking for a unique gift for that person who ‘has it all?’ These brands are sure to surprise you with their one-of-a-kind items. Check out our favorites from Love to Dream, Bizzi Growin, Gladly Family, and Coco Beans.

Shop Gugu Guru

Looking for an easy place to check off multiple gifts? Look no further than Gugu Guru’s Shop! We have so many great gift ideas from our shop, which will allow you to knock out multiple gift ideas with one quick storefront! Take a look at our favorites from Nanit, Nanobebe, bbhugme, and Baby K’tan.

To Grandmother’s House, We Go!

by Abby Ludwig Leave a Comment

After the past 20 months, we are all ready for a bit of normalcy. For many of us, this might mean traveling to see Grandparents this holiday season. No matter near or far, there are some products you may want when you bring your little ones for a visit. Check below for our round-up of all the products that may need to “live at Grandmas!”

Also, don’t forget to check out our Ultimate Travel Checklist.

Time to Eat

You’ve finally figured out a routine for your little ones. Baby needs a bottle every 4 hours, while your toddler needs 3 meals and about 45 snacks in between.

Starting with baby, we absolutely adore the bbhugme Nursing Pillow, which is great for both breast and bottle feeders. It is customizable, comfortable, and comes with an excellent carry case, which is great for travel.

If you’re pumping, be sure to grab a Freeze It Flat by MAMMaway. This will allow you to efficiently freeze + store your breastmilk, without taking up valuable space in Grammy’s freezer. Also, be sure to check out some of our travel favorites by Baby’s Brew. Known for their excellent bottle warmers and 2-in-1 Snack Cups.

For your little one starting solids, we love the sets by Green Sprouts. You will have your bibs + dishes ready to go when lunch approaches. Your toddler will also love the GoBe Snack Spinner, making snack time fun and easy!

Time to Run Out and About

While you may travel with your stroller and/or carrier, sometimes it’s nice to show up at your Grandparent’s without any gear. We love leaving a lightweight stroller at Papa’s to throw in the car or run to the park. Larktale has some of our favorites, which also fold up small for easy storage. Check out the Chit Chat or the Autofold, which folds down small with the flip of a handlebar. Looking for a way to carry multiple kiddos? Larktale’s Caravan Wagon is an excellent way to visit the park, beach, zoo, and beyond!

Time to Relax

Sometimes at Granny’s the schedules and routines go out the window. We support that! Vacation is a time when rules are broken. Instead of nap time, your 3-year-old may cozy up on the couch watching football. Bizzi Gr owin has some of the softest luxury blankets with the cutest patterns. We highly recommend the Koochicoo blanket for your big kids and their adorable sleepsacks for your littles!

Looking for a safe place to sleep? Babymoov’s Naos Crib & Playard is an excellent option. Weighing under 9 lbs, this playard will fold up small for easy storage and easy for Grandpa to move. Mom hack: This is a great place for baby to play, especially in an area that might not be babyproofed as your home. Add some reusable ergoPouch Window Blockouts to ensure a great night of sleep for everyone.

Whether you’re visiting Grandparents by plane or car, we know you’ll be fully prepared to enjoy time with your loved ones!

Looking for More Travel Tips & Tricks?

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Travel Must Have: Slumberpod Review

by Gugu Guru Leave a Comment

About the author:

Denalee is a frequent traveler with her 18 month old. She tested the Slumberpod for us in both a hotel room and at a vacation house. Check out what she had to say below!

Traveling with baby or considering taking a trip in the near future with your little one in tow? If you’re sharing a room with your babe, a stickler for scheduled sleep times or perhaps traveling to another time zone, check out this review of the SlumberPod from Gugu Guide and frequent traveler, Denalee, who just came back from a vacation with her 18 month old son, Mikey.

What is the SlumberPod?

The SlumberPod is a portable blackout solution for peaceful sleep on-the-go. It is a quick-assembly privacy pod that helps babies/toddlers get a good night’s sleep — especially important when sharing a room with others or when napping conditions are not ideal. It completely encloses a playard (travel crib), mini-crib, or select toddler cots. SlumberPod makes it easy to create the perfect sleep environment at home and while traveling.

I used the SlumberPod in two different situations; a vacation house and then a hotel room. I am covering both scenarios in this review of the SlumberPod.

Vacation House Review

Pros:

The room was not very dark at all so it was really helpful to have the SlumberPod, especially at nap time!
The room also does not have AC, I was a little concerned with the lack of airflow since the room is warm and the air from the room’s fans can’t really penetrate the tent when it is sealed. However, I opened the windows a little and kept the zipper partially open and the temperature was fine (I stuck my son’s monitor in there with him so it measured the temperature and it was completely fine!)

Cons:

The bedroom was a normal size bedroom and I didn’t realize how big the SlumberPod was. It feels huge over our small travel crib but after I used the SlumberPod again I think it was just a combination of the room size and the furniture in it. As you’ll see in the next scenario, when you’re using the SlumberPod in a hotel environment I don’t think this is an issue. We still made it work with the vacation home bedroom, it was just a tight space to move around and with so many people doing Airbnb in lieu of hotels these days, I thought it would be good to call this out.

Hotel Room Review

Here we used the SlumberPod with a traditional play yard. The SlumberPod was clutch on our recent vacation to Chicago. In a hotel setting, there is plenty of open space for the SlumberPod and we didn’t even notice the size. We were traveling for a wedding and had a babysitter set to watch my son one night. It was really nice to be able to let her use her phone/iPad in the room and not worry about the light. Additionally, the bathroom had a glass wall to the bedroom so anytime the bathroom light was on you could see it in the bedroom. The SlumberPod allows my son to nap while others are doing things in the hotel room that require light, e.g., getting ready for the wedding, and helps him sleep more soundly at night away from home. I was still concerned with putting the TV on while he slept in the SlumberPod but it was more a concern for noise than for light.

Overall, I highly recommend the SlumberPod. I do wish I had started using the SlumberPod when my son was younger. Although he was excited to hang out in it when he first saw it set up he was hesitant to go in at bed time and I had to climb in with him to get him to calm down (normally he goes down easily on his own). Also, I would highly recommend practicing setting it up. It took me a few tries at home to get it right and I was so happy to tested it first. The instructions are a little bit confusing but they suggest you watch the video and the video was very helpful to set it up. At first I was concerned it would be one more thing to lug around when traveling but it fit right in our car seat bag without an issue so we hardly noticed we were bringing it. It folds into its travel bag really easily too so taking it down is a breeze.

Grab your SlumberPod now to join you on any holiday travel!

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