sleep

Best Bassinets for Babies: Gugu Picks

Bassinets for babies are more popular than ever these days due to one of the 2016 safe sleep recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) being that infants sleep in the same room as the parents for at least the first six months and, optimally, for the first year of life, based on the latest evidence. So, unless you don’t have a nursery at all, you’ll likely need a sleeping arrangement for your bedroom as well. Here, we’ve rounded up the best bassinets for babies in 2018 according to Gugu Guru’s experts:

Gugu Pick for Best all Around: SNOO Smart Sleeper
While this bassinet may seem very expensive compared to other bassinets for babies on the market, when you break it down it is actually only around $5 a day for additional sleep for you and baby! The SNOO Smart Sleeper is a very safe bassinet with mesh walls, protective swaddle wings that ensure that baby stays on their back and the SNOO sack that ensures a secure swaddle that is hip safe. The SNOO Smart Sleeper not only looks beautiful but it chooses the best motion and white noise to soothe your baby and get him or her off to sleep. The SNOO can be used up to 6 months and even offers a gradual weaning feature to make the transition to the crib a little easier. Check out our Real Mom Review of the Snoo.

Gugu Budget Pick: Chicco Lullago
The Chicco Lullago is not only one of the best bassinets for babies that parents can use in any room of their home, but it’s easy to fold and lightweight – making it great for travel when baby is young. At only $99, the Chicco Lullago includes a mattress with a machine washable cover and a carry bag for when you travel with the bassinet. The Lullago also has mesh sides so it is easy to see baby from your bed and allows for circulation for baby. The design is simple and sleek so it will fit into almost any home design and the set up is super simple so anyone will be able to do it in a snap. (Can be used until 20lbs or when baby can go to their hands and knees.) Check out more of our budget registry picks.

Gugu Eco-friendly Pick: BabyBay Bedside Sleeper
Parents can not only feel good about the BabyBay Bedside Sleeper because it keeps their baby close to them in a safe environment but it is made with solid wood and without the use of any plastics, toxic glues or wood fillers. The BabyBay Bedside bassinet fits any bed height securely and with the purchase of bassinet conversion kit, it can be used as a bassinet that can be moved from room to room. Organic mattress, organic sheets and organic canopy are also available to fit the BabyBay Bedside Sleeper. (As a bedside sleeper the BabyBay can be used up to 6 months or when baby can push up.) Check out some more of our eco-friendly picks.

Gugu Multiple Pick: HALO Bassinest Twin Sleeper
The HALO Bassinest twin sleeper has new parents of twins jumping for joy! The Bassinest Twin offers a 360 swivel so you can see or access either baby with a simple turn. Each baby has his or her own sleeping area as the Bassinest Twin is divided by a mesh wall so the babies can still see each other without the risk of sharing one bassinet. For a new mom recovering from delivery, the Bassinest Twin offers walls that lower and return automatically so that mom can easily access and return the babies from her bed. The Bassinest Twin is adjustable so it will fit just about any bed and comes with a nightlight and three options for soothing sounds and three lullabies. (Can be used until one baby reaches 20lbs or when one baby can go to his or her hands and knees.) See what a new mom has to say about the single HALO Bassinest.

Gugu Minimalist Pick: BABYBJÖRN Cradle
The BABYBJÖRN Cradle is great for a family that wants something that doesn’t take up a lot of space, looks great and can be used longer than the typical bassinet. This bassinet features full airy mesh sides that make it easy for parents to see baby. Parents will love the gentle springy motion that can be easily created with a slight push. The BABYBJÖRN Cradle comes with a machine washable mattress and to make the cradle even more cozy an airy canopy can be purchased separately. Weighing in at only 13 pounds parents can easy move this bassinet around their home and it can be used for up to approx. 6 months. Check out more of our minimalist picks.

Honorable Mention: UPPAbaby Stand
If you already have the UPPAbaby VISTA then you already have a bassinet that is suitable for overnight sleep. The UPPAbaby stand will allow you to snap your UPPAbaby VISTA or CRUZ bassinet into a sturdy and secured elevated stand the same way you snap it into your stroller. Plus, when you can no longer use the stand for the bassinet there are optional accessories that allow you to use the stand as a laundry hamper. (Can be used until 20lbs or when baby can go to his or her hands and knees.)

About the author:

Julie McCaffrey is a proud mommy to 3 kids, including one set of twins and owns BabyNav Baby Planners where she offers personalized consultation to new and expecting parents across the U.S.. She is a sought after modern baby gear expert, has been featured in Pregnancy and Newborn magazine, Fit Pregnancy, US News and World Report, and loves to help moms and dads navigate everything from baby gear to creating their registry to preparing for multiples and getting back to work.

Creating a Safe and Sleep-Friendly Nursery with The Sleep Lady

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Kim West, LCSW-C, also known as The Sleep Lady, is our go-to guru when it comes to anything safety and sleep related. She’s here today to share her super helpful tips for creating a safe and sleep-friendly nursery.

When I was expecting my first child I began to dream of making our extra bedroom into a nursery for our firstborn. I thought about the color of the walls, the fabrics I preferred, and where to position the furniture. My initial thoughts were not about creating a safe and sleep-friendly nursery, to be honest with you! That came later. But really, it is far more important than where the dresser goes!

There are a few key ways you can make your baby’s nursery safe AND sleep-enhancing. Safety always comes first, so let’s start there.

Safety Tips:

Choose a firm mattress, topped with a snugly-fitted, smooth sheet. Avoid bumpers as they can be a safety hazard.
Maintain an uncluttered sleep surface: no pillows, loose blankets or toys in the sleep space.
Insist on a non-smoking environment for your child’s sleep space.
Check that there are no cords, hanging picture frames or art, house plants, or other items within 3 feet of your child’s crib or sleep space.

Making a Sleep-Friendly Environment:

Keep it Dark. Consider adding blackout curtains or blinds to your child’s windows. A newborn’s internal clock is not developed yet so we have to be their external clock by making their room dark when it’s time to sleep. Along with following a soothing bedtime routine, a dark room will help your newborn’s body to secrete melatonin, the drowsy making hormone, and get ready for sleep.
Use a White-Noise Machine. White noise is very soothing and helpful for babies because it is similar to the noise they hear for months inside the womb. It also drowns out outside noises such as toddlers playing or activity outside the home. When shopping for a device consider one with multiple sound options and that works continuously throughout the night.
Set a Comfortable Temperature. Often we overlook the nursery’s temperature but this is an important factor for your child’s sleep. In general, we all sleep better in cool temps and, because babies are unable to regulate their body temperature entirely, they are dependent on us to set the environment for them. This includes their clothing as well. The thermostat should be between 68-72 degrees. If needed, utilize a fan or AC unit in the summer as well as keeping the curtains closed during the day to block the hot sun from warming up the room. Instead of a blanket, use a wearable blanket or sleep bag to keep your baby warm and safe.

Soothing Surroundings for Easier Sleep:

Go ahead and enjoy making your nursery as lovely as possible. But, remember the main point of the nursery is for your baby’s sleep!

Use Soft Colors. Choose soft, neutral, or pale colors for the decor.
Dim the Lights. A night-light may come in handy for a late-night check-in and installing a dimmer on a lamp may help while nursing or for changing a diaper as unobtrusively as possible.
Remove Toys. While mobiles are beautiful to look at over a crib, they can be overly stimulating, particularly when done in bright colors. Consider using one over a pack-n-play or bassinet when your child is awake. Also, keeping the room tidy and uncluttered will help keep distractions down once your baby becomes alert of his surroundings. With this in mind, keep exciting and favorite toys out of his line of sight while in his sleep space.

Setting up a safe and sleep-friendly nursery is not too hard to do and it goes a long way toward helping your child get the sleep he needs.

You can find Kim West on her website, Instagram, and Facebook.

The Village Reviews: Gunapod Bamboo Duvet Sack

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Our Gugu Village reviews this new Gunapod Bamboo Duvet Sack from the Gunamuna company.

The Gunapod Bamboo Duvet Sack is constructed of super soft fabric made from eco-friendly hypoallergenic thermal regulating bamboo fibers, perfect for protecting sensitive skin. It is filled with premium fill to feel like a down comforter. The Gunapod mimics a caregiver’s hug with all over channel-stitched soft pressure points, so baby feels ultra comfortable + sleeps longer. All of that with the brand’s WONDERZiP® technology for the easiest diaper changes and a temperature control zip to further customize the cozy.

Here’s what our village had to say:

-Shelby S.-
I got the Gunapod Bamboo Duvet Sack before my infant was born because he is a winter baby and I wanted to try some different wearable blankets to keep him warm. I was nervous when it arrived because it was so large. I thought he wouldn’t be able to use it until he was much older but I was wrong! It fits just fine for my 9lb, 20in little guy and is the softest and warmest thing he owns!! As an infant I swaddle him at night and then put the gunapod over his swaddle. During the day I let his arms out when he is swinging or just lying around. When he gets older I’ll let his arms out the slots. I’m very pleased with this sleep sack and it is the only one I am currently using.

-Emily F.-
My initial thoughts on the Gunapod Bamboo Duvet Sack are: I love the soft material, the adorable pattern and that the velcro is the non-sticky type, so hair and clothes don’t immediately stick to it. Little Mallary seems to love the comfort of the fabric and hold of the internal swaddle and sack too. We’re not sure if she sleeps longer in it, yet – but we’re hoping to test this more on our upcoming weekend trips.

I love the options to have one, two or no arms out. The baby prefers both arms out, so far! I like the idea that it’s easy to change the diaper but I’m also paranoid that it will get dirty unless I use a cloth diaper or burp cloth under her while changing her. I also like that the company is conscious of hip dysplasia prevention and that her legs are not restricted.

Overall, we love this Gunapod Bamboo Duvet Sack and it helps with naps in the Pack n Play! We are looking forward to using this swaddle sack more when we travel, especially when we go to Walla Walla next month as our first overnight away from home!

See other Village reviews here:

Real Mom Reviews: SNOO Smart Sleeper System

Real Mom Reviews: Moba Bassinet

Real Mom Reviews: HALO Bassinest

Real Mom Reviews: 4moms moxi + car seat

Video Overview: Baby Merlin Magic Sleepsuit

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-Sponsored Video-

Check out Gugu Guru founder Monica’s video overview of the Baby Merlin Magic Sleepsuit and why this is a must-have for parents.

Check out more of our sleep must haves in our Top 5 Essentials for Sleepless Nights and Mama Wellness: Sleeptime Essentials.

Back to Sleep: Woolino Sleep Sacks

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Back to Sleep week, which is focused on safe and healthy sleep for baby. Today’s post features Woolino’s sleep sacks, which are a year round must have for babies and toddlers. Plus, head to the bottom of the post to enter for a chance to win one!

If parents are looking for a safe and comfortable way for baby to sleep, sleep sacks are a perfect solution, since they are safe for baby to sleep with in the crib. However, not all sleep sacks can keep baby cool in warm weather and warm in cool weather! Babies don’t have the ability to regulate their own body temperature that adults have, so it’s important to make sure they’re not too cold or overheating, especially during the night time. However, merino wool is the perfect solution to this issue; merino wool creates a micro-climate around your baby, which maintains a consistent temperature for them. It has the ability to absorb water away from your baby’s skin and release it into the atmosphere during the summer. In winter, it will trap and circulate warm air, keeping your baby warm. A more comfortable temperature allows for a deeper and more restful sleep for your baby, so that that energy can be diverted to growth and development.

Woolino’s award winning 4 Season Merino Wool Baby Sleep Bag will keep your baby at a perfect temperature all year round. That means there’s no need to worry about which weight sleep sack to use, or whether your baby will be too hot or cold while sleeping – they’ll always be just right! It’s 100% natural, fully machine-washable, and is excellent value, as it comes in one universal size that fits babies from 2 months to 2 years. This is the only sleep sack you child will need, right up until they turn two.

Babies with sensitive skin or conditions such as eczema love merino wool – it’s hypoallergenic, so won’t irritate their skin. Not only is it incredibly soft and breathable, but because it is composed of the same protein that makes up the outer protective layer of our skin, it works in total harmony with our skin’s own protection mechanisms. It also inhibits bacteria, so minimizes other allergenic problems. Merino will not itch or irritate delicate baby skin. In fact, it’s one of the softest materials around. The wool fiber produced by merino sheep is significantly finer than other types of wool, so feels luxuriously soft and gentle against a baby’s skin.

Back to Sleep: BabyBjorn Cradle

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Back to Sleep week, which is focused on safe and healthy sleep for baby. Today’s post featured the BabyBjorn Cradle, which is a must-have for postpartum mamas, minimalist parents, eco-friendly moms and dads, and small space living, too. Plus, head to the bottom of the post to enter for a chance to win one!

There are so many reasons the BabyBjorn Cradle has become a favorite of parents everywhere (it’s no surprise, since we love their bouncers too!). With full mesh walls, the cradle allows you to see baby, and also allows for full air flow – which is significant in safe sleep for baby. There are no no electronics, buttons, vibrations, batteries, or plugs, but there is a gentle springy movement that parents can utilize for some soothing. This is perfect for parents who like to keep technology at bay when it comes to babies, or families that keep technology out of the bedrooms.

As our sleep expert, The Safety Mom says, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that baby shares a room with parents for a year; the BabyBjorn cradle is a fantastic way to keep baby in the parents bedroom and sleep safely. Unlike a lot of bassinets that you have to stop using when the baby is around 3 months the Baby Bjorn cradle can be used until he baby is 6 months (or 18 lbs or baby can sit up unassisted). Plus, it is a beautifully designed piece that will fit into any home design (which is great when you want to have it in your master bedroom). It is overall a safe design (not just beautiful) with no loose parts, mesh walls and stable legs.

Another reason we love this cradle is that it only weighs 13 pounds so parents (even those mamas that are recovering or postpartum) can easily move it around the house to keep a close eye on baby while they sleep. It’s super helpful to have a safe space for baby to sleep which you can easily move around the house! If you’re planning on having a c-section, the BabyBjorn cradle is going to be a dream for you, because you can keep baby close to the bed, and move baby around the house to sleep easily.

Back to Sleep: Crane Humidifier

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Back to Sleep week is focused on safe and healthy sleep for baby. Today’s post features the Crane Drop Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier which is a must-have for infants, clean-living, and health conscious families.

We featured Crane in last year’s Back to Sleep event also – and this year, it is no surprise that they are back, as we think they are an essential item for any nursery. Not only is the Crane Drop Humidifier a nursery must-have, but their sleek style (and choice of many colors) will blend in to any nursery!

Plus, for all the eco-conscious families, Crane humidifiers are all BPA-free and energy efficient, using ultrasonic technology to add soothing moisture to the air. Crane’s Drop Humidifier is whisper quiet and operates on a low power consumption, more energy efficient than a household light bulb (up to 45W).

So, why is it essential to have a Crane Humidifier in your nursery? Humidifiers are especially important for Newborns because they are Obligate Nasal Breathers, breathing only through their tiny noses for their first 4 – 6 months. Any congestion can make breathing, feeding, and sleeping incredibly difficult for your little one.

Plus, the Crane Humidifier will grow with your child; even toddlers and kids need humidifiers! Many pediatricians recommend the use of a humidifier as a safe, non medicated, all natural alternative to help relieve congestion from the common cold and flu instead of potentially harmful over-the-counter cough and cold medicine.

Where in the nursery should you put the humidifier? Our Sleep Expert, The Safety Mom Says…

Back to Sleep: Newton Wovenaire Crib Mattress

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Gugu Guru has featured the Newton Wovenaire Crib Mattress many times in the past, including in last year’s Back to Sleep event and the brand has some new news since then. If you aren’t familiar with this cutting edge mattress, we love the Newton Wovenaire Crib Mattress because it’s breathable, eco-friendly and machine-washable. The innovative design of the Newton Wovenaire Crib Mattress sets it apart from other crib mattresses on the market because it allows air to flow freely for optimal breathability and temperature regulation. This is because the mattress’s core is made of 90% free air (yes, air!) and 10% food-grade polymer.

We also love the low maintenance factor; Newton Wovenaire Crib Mattress’ washable material prevents bacteria growth, plus makes the inevitable middle of the night diaper or spit up situation. Newton’s perfect level of cushy firmness helps your baby stay asleep. It’s all wrapped up in a breathable, three-dimensional fabric that provides comfort and unzips for easy washing. Newton contains no foam, latex, springs, glue, or allergens and is 100% recyclable.

So what’s new with the Newton Wovenaire Crib Mattress since last year’s safe sleep event? The cool color options for the replacement covers! You can gain the maximum breathability benefits of Newton’s Wovenaire by forgoing the crib sheet, and always have an extra cover on hand to make those late night clean ups a breeze. The Newton Crib Mattress Cover is made from our lightweight, breathable spacer fabric that is cozy enough for your little one and durable enough for everyday use. Simply throw the messy cover into the washing machine and replace with a fresh clean cover to get your baby (and you!) back to sleep more quickly.

New Mom Review: HALO Bassinest

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New mama, Theresa, who is Gugu Guru’s Head of Design was offered the HALO Bassinest for review. Overall, she was absolutely thrilled with the product. In this review, she lists the pros and cons from her experience. We also gave HALO the opportunity to respond to the two cons from Theresa’s review and were pleased to discover that HALO has listened to their customers and is offering a new Bassinest stand this year to address customers’ opinions over the base size and weight.

Pro: TONS of pockets
The HALO Bassinest swivel sleeper has three pockets for tons of storage (three pockets!) Diapers, wipes, diaper cream, burp clothes – if you have a c-section or are just exhausted in the middle of the night, everything is right at your finger tips.

Pro: Lots of cool features
This bassinet has everything you could want from music, vibration and a breast feeding timer all right at the ready for parents. Again this is a huge c section plus!

Pro: C section approved
The fact that the HALO Bassinest swivel sleeper comes right up to the side of your bed is a huge help for nursing and also after a c-section. I had to move minimally to get to my baby in the middle of the night. The swivel of the bassinet was the biggest help because I didn’t have to slide myself down the bed and pass the bassinet to get up. With the swivel, I can easily slide the bassinet (and baby) away from the bed so I could get on and off the bed with ease while healing.

Pro: Mesh/collapsing side
Even though most bassinets have mesh sides the HALO Bassinest has really large openings so it is very easy to see your baby while you are lying down. I also loved the collapsible side so I could touch my baby or put the pacifier in his mouth without even sitting up.

Pro: Room for baby to grow
I love how big the basket is that holds the baby. I happen to have a big baby (born almost 9 pounds) and as he has grown over the past three months, he still has plenty of room and sleeps comfortably as he wiggles around. My baby will get lots of future use in his HALO!

Con: BIG base
This bassinet is not one that you can easily move from room to room during the day because the base is so large. It is hard to get it through doorways so you have to strictly use this bedside. (If you put it together in another room and then want to move it into your bedroom, it is a little tricky.)

HALO’s Response: The base is large, heavy and not designed to be moved. This keeps it firmly planted next to the bed where is used most of the time, but the unique swivel and glide give it movement. However, HALO recognized that parents want more mobility and is introducing a Bassinest stand toward the end of 2017. This will enable parents move the Bassinest throughout the house as some babies just sleep better in it, and parents would love to be able to provide that same safe sleep space when they move out of the bedroom.

Con: Additional Light needed (c-section specific)
The bassinet comes with two light sources. The first light source points to the floor and is very small. So if you are looking for some light in the dark to breastfeed, etc, this light won’t really help post c-section. There is a second light that shines in on the baby. I never felt the need to use this light because with the baby in such close proximity to me I felt I could check on him without the light.

HALO’s Response: With regard to the light there are actually two lights on the model: one which illuminates the floor so you don’t have to turn on a light if you are getting out of bed, and it was positioned that way so you wouldn’t disturb the baby. The other nightlight on the soothing center serves as a nightlight, and we believe many moms use this to gently lift baby out of the Bassinest for nursing. The amount of lighting needed likely varies from consumer to consumer, but these two features offer lighting close to the Bassinest to help mom and baby and should not disturb anyone else in the room.

Get the HALO Bassinest here.

Check out these other posts on the HALO Bassinest:

Back to Sleep 2016

Top 5 Essentials First Night Home With Baby

City Living Registry Picks with Nikki Dinki

Sleep Must Have: Weighted Blankets for Baby & Parents

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Weighted blankets are proven in clinical studies to alleviate stress or anxiety and help promote a deeper, longer sleep. The reason why? Weighted blanket therapy can help increase Serotonin and Melatonin levels overnight. Sleep is the holy grail for new parents and babies alike. Parents want babies to sleep well because a good night’s sleep is imperative to baby’s health and development. Of course, we as parents want babies to sleep because parents also – sometimes desperately – need sleep. Weighted blankets can be game changers for your household slumber. We’re excited to tell you about two weighted blankets – one for parents and one wearable swaddle / blanket for baby – that will help the whole family get the sleep they need.

First up: baby and the Nested Bean Swaddle. Because of the clear benefits, Nested Bean identified that babies tend to sleep better in your embrace or with your palm on their chest. They also understand that this is obviously not always possible so Nested Bean created a one of a kind, award winning swaddle for babies – the Zen Swaddle. The Zen Swaddle simulates the pressure from your touch with lightly weighted pads on baby’s chest and sides.

There are two options for the Zen Swaddle – The Zen Swaddle Classic is one layer of fabric, which means it is perfect for warmer months. At a very affordable price, you can have many of them, so baby won’t miss one night of sleeping well! The Zen Swaddle Premier has a double layer construction, which makes it perfect for cooler months. The Classic Swaddle features traditional baby light baby colors, while the Premier has more of a modern touch. The Swaddle is longer than most swaddles, making it most cost effective, as it will last your baby well into 6 months. They are 100% cotton and machine washable, and come in a variety of colors and patterns.

But, the best part of the Zen Swaddle? Parents who’ve tried the Zen Swaddle report their babies fall asleep easier and stay asleep longer within 1 to 3 nights. Win win for everyone! (Head over to Nested Bean to purchase a Zen Swaddle and receive 15% off with the code GUGU15.)

Next up: parents. Super, super important note that we have to stress here first – the weighted blankets shown here are intended for adult use. Do NOT use these blankets when you have an infant in the bed with you, especially a child under 20lbs.

The Weighted Blanket from Brookstone uses the same comforting pressure as a loving hug to elicit sensations of calmness and relaxation. Evenly distributed weight provides optimal coverage and a safe, snug feeling for any individual.

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