How to pick the best infant car seat with the best price for your newborn baby! 5 secrets revealed!

Author: Zac

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/babies-articles/how-to-pick-the-best-infant-car-seat-with-the-best-price-for-your-newborn-baby-5-secrets-revealed-1410529.html

About the Author

Zac has been writing articles for baby products for nearly 5 years now.

If you want to find more Infant Car Seat Reviews, come visit his latest reviews on Baby Trend Car Seats Review.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. QUESTION:
   About how old is a 30 lb baby?
   HI guys–

   I ended up with two car seats as gifts– the same brand! ha. The thing is, they got GREAT safety ratings and its defintely the brand I want. The thing is, only one of our 2 cars are currently “baby safe”– I drive a Ford Ranger and even though you can turn the airbag off, I dont think I’ll be putting baby in my truck at all.

   We’ll be buying a second baby-safe car in mid or late summer. Baby is due this month, so she’ll already be 4+ months old then. The seat is rated for up to 30 lbs.

   Should we keep both and plan to use the second one in 4 months or should I return it and get a larger seat when we get the second car? I dont know how hold a 30lb kid is…..

   • ANSWER:
     Mty daughter is 2 and weighs 32 pounds, check to see if the car seat has a height requirement as well, some do. You can buy car seats that go from 22 pounds up to 80 pounds, so it is a front facing seat until the child is 40 pounds and then turns into a booster until they are 80 pounds. I’d return the seat and look for one like that.

2. QUESTION:
   Is there a rating for the safety of a car seat?
   I just bought a convertible car seat for my 1 year old. His father and grandmother are afriad that it’s going to “break in half” if we get into a wreck. They said there is some kind of rating system for the safety of all car seats. All I can find is convience ratings and a statement saying that all car seats are safe because they all have to pass the govornments tests. So am I missing something? If I am I will definetly check into it since this is my baby’s safety but I can’t find any safety ratings.
   Also, if anyone actually has wrecked in one how did that go? It’s a Cosco Scenera 22197ANQ.

   • ANSWER:
     Try this site…

     http://www.nhtsa.gov/Safety/Ease-of-Use

3. QUESTION:
   How to pick a car seat? Convertible or infant to start?
   It seems a little silly to purchase two seats in just a few months, but I’m wondering if the infant ones are safer or something?
   Also, where can you find the safety ratings for baby gear? I tried consumer reports and apparently you have to pay and subscribe. Surely you don’t have to pay to know the safety of the equipment you need to purchase!!!
   Thanks girls, really appreciate any help here! I went looking yesterday and was so confused….
   Geez Derek easily offended? I think it’s pretty obvious I wasn’t trying to upset anyone. You’re moodier than me and I’m pregnant, lol!!

   • ANSWER:
     The only time an infant bucket seat is safer than a convertible is if baby is on the smaller side (>5 to around 7lbs) Otherwise all seats have to pass the same tests for rear facing, then a different test for forward facing with convertible seats.

4. QUESTION:
   How do i check the safety of an apartment?
   I have a wife and a baby girl and i am worried about thier safety. I have tried to look up thier ratings on apartment ratings and its a mixed bag i cant tell who is lying and some look suspicious , i looked at the place and it isnt horrible but i could see why it could be potentially dangerous. I know theres a risk all the time when it comes to apartments and crime has no address but i just want my family to be ok , i thought about buying a gun to protect myself and only keeping it in the home , i just dont know what to do and how to do it.

   • ANSWER:
     You can always contact the local police department for crime stats in the area.

5. QUESTION:
   safety specs for 1985 toyota corolla gts?
   my little toyo is my baby xD love her to death, but im worried about crash ratings and such since shes an older vehicle. does anyone know where its weak or vulnerable spots are? i dont even think i have an airbag in the thing :/

   much thankies :3

   • ANSWER:
     A girl driving an AE86, you got great taste in cars. Make sure to take care of it and learn the basics of drift. It’ll help you be a better driver and avoid accidents.

     No airbag in it, but it’s a japanese car from the 1980s. In other words, built like a tank. I feel safer in my 21 year old FC than a brand new RX8, because it was designed to glance off a hit, not crumble like new cars do.

     There are plenty of aftermarket safety items for the AE86, in the way of cages and rollbars, which would save you even if you were t-boned by a redneck-scale truck. Look on ebay and you’ll see quite a bit just by putting in “AE86″. When in doubt, ask your fellow Hachi-Roku (AE86) owners at http://forums.club4ag.com/

     -Takahashi Ryosuke

6. QUESTION:
   Is it worth buying a car that has 190K on it?
   I found a 2002 buick lesabre, the body is in clean condition as well as the interior, no rust, small puncture in the bumper. Has newer tires all power options, and only one previous owner. Drives really smooth. They are asking 3,000 well actually 3,950 but are willing to make me a deal. I love this car it’s so comfortable and a smooth ride. It also gets good safety ratings that I want for my baby that will be in the back. It looks like a well maintained vehicle but the km’s are what worries me. Is it worth 3,000?

   • ANSWER:
     Miles are like years to a person.

     It doesn’t matter the number, it matters how they were achieved.

     Someone at 60 years old, might be near death. Or running marathons.

     A car at 190k miles, might be about to fall apart, or good for another 500,000 miles.

     It all depends on how YOU maintain it, and how it was maintained prior to you getting it.

     If you want the car, get it. But if it falls apart, it’s not the car’s fault. Just remember that.

7. QUESTION:
   Best Mommie Vehicle?
   I am 15 weeks pregnant and soon my husband and I will need to purchase a new (or used) vehicle. I am interested in one that will last us through the baby stage (car seat facing backwards) and into toddler stage (forward facing car seat).

   we prefer a car or small SUV/Van/Wagon that has excellent safety ratings, an easily accessible back seat (for putting babies in and out), affordable, and ALSO gets great gas mileage (a lot to ask!) The problem with our car now is a rear facing baby seat would require the front seats to be pushed all the way up!

   I assume by posting this question in the toddler stage of pregnancy, moms and dads will have some good suggestions of what works and doesn’t work for them. SO, if you have a particular car that you like (or hate), please tell me about it. I am very interested in ease of use and gas mileage.

   Thanks for all your help

   • ANSWER:
     I drive a 2004 Passat sedan with automatic transmission that I paid k for (brand new). It gets about 25-32 mpg (city/hwy), depending on how I drive (I have a lead foot).

     LATCH installs in the backseat are very easy. There are only two sets of LATCH anchors – they’re outboard, and the inner anchors cannot be used to install a carseat with LATCH in the center position. All three seating positions have locking seatbelts, so you can put a seat in any of the three positions. All three seating positions have a top tether.

     I have installed the Britax Marathon rear-facing behind the driver seat with LATCH, forward-facing in both outboard positions with LATCH, and it is currently forward-facing in the center position with the seatbelt.

     I have installed the Eddie Bauer 3-in-1 forward-facing in the center position. The seat tilted to the side a little because there’s a little bump in the center of the rear seat, but it was in there tight. I had to remove the base on the 3-in-1. And, I could not get it installed as tightly as I would have liked, in either outboard position. Then again, this is not my favorite seat.

     I have installed the Evenflo Triumph forward-facing outboard with LATCH. I could not get it in as tightly as I would have liked it to be – my leather seats did not want to grip on to that flat base on the Triumph.

     I have installed the Sunshine Kids Radian forward-facing outboard with LATCH. This seat is in our other vehicle so I’ve not had a lot of experience with it in the center, or with the seatbelt.

     If you have more questions, check out www.car-seat.org. There are certified child passenger safety technicians on the forum who will be happy to help! hth!

8. QUESTION:
   Forward Facing Car Seat?
   We have a little girl that out grew her car seat. She is 9 months and 20 pounds. We found a car seat that has superb safety ratings but it is a forward facing seat. We have heard that infants should be facing the rear until 12 months old. Is facing our baby forward going to put her into danger?? The car seat is for someone her weight……

   • ANSWER:
     20 lbs AND 1 yr. is the MINIMUM requirement. If you got pulled over (in Illinois and Wisconsin for sure), not only would you be fined, but DCFS would be contacted and they’d come investigate you due to child endangerment. The best carseat you can get is the Britax Marathon or the Sunshine Kids Radian 80–both can be used rear facing until 35 lbs and forward facing to 65 for the Britax and 80 for the Sunshine Kids.

     Rear facing is ALWAYS safest. It’d be safest for adults, too, if it would work! Her neck is not strong enough to sustain her life in the event of a crash. Infant and even toddler necks are not fully developed and the space between vertebrae and the skull is quite large. If her neck snaps forward in a crash, it will separate and she will be internally decapitated. If she’s rear facing, the carseat will absorb the impact of the crash.

     Also, if you’re looking at an Evenflo, Graco, Cosco (or Eddie Bauer), or Safety 1st seat, know that these seats are safety tested at 25-30 mph. Britax and Sunshine Kids test their seats at a minimum of 50 mph. Also, when they safety test seats, they use them with the straps on correctly–Evenflo and Cosco seats’ straps twist really easily, which is a major safety hazard, yet it seems unavoidable. Graco and Safety 1st have chest clips that are really easy to unbuckle and they slide up and down the harness really easily, regardless of how tight the harness is on your child. So, just because it’s been given a good safety rating doesn’t mean it has been deemed safe by consumers–know HOW it got the rating–does it pass the minimums or does it exceed them?

Baby Pillows – Should I Give My Child a Pillow?

Author: Chris Towland

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/baby-pillows-should-i-give-my-child-a-pillow-60381.html

About the Author

Chris Towland is the author of The Baby Sleep Solution. The 35 minute audio program that gives the simple techniques that will ensure your baby sleeps through the night, every night.

See more information at: http://www.babysleepsolution.com

Frequently Asked Questions

1. QUESTION:
   Baby Pillow/Pillow Case Safety Standard?
   Is there any special safety standard for baby’s and children’s pillow? I am in Taiwan, but there is no standard for pillows! I would like to know what’s the safety standand if any in other countries, especially in States!

   • ANSWER:
     baby’s shouldn’t have pillows…they can suffocate!!! plz don’t use pillows yet….not until the age of 1 1/2

2. QUESTION:
   Baby safety class………?
   my boyfriend and i attended a baby safety class today and i just wanted to share some helpful information with all the parents.

   Walkers are banned in a few stated and illegal in canada due to development delays. a baby that uses a walker on a regular basis is most likely to be bow legged and walk on tippy toes. it also slows the development of abdominal and back muscles. the teacher said the seat (the part of fabric that goes between babys legs) is not very comfortable and could cause the bowleggedness. he said its like if we would walk around with a pillow between our legs…now very comfy lol. it would cause the baby to walk on its tippy toes because if you have seen a baby in a walker you have seen that all the do is push/pull them selves around with their toes. a baby is ready to walk at around 10 months. when they start to pull up on things is when they are getting ready to walk. putting a 5 month old in a walker would just slow the process. IF you choose to use a walker, use it for no more than 20 minutes per day.

   the bumbo seat is recalled. they still sell it in stores because people buy them. along with most other recalled item. not all of them are taken out of stores because people continue to buy them. check this website for recalled items. http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/category/child.html

   for the first year of a babys life, the only thing that should be in a crib is the fitted sheet and the baby. bumpers and comforters should not be used. for more information on comforters and bumper safety go to www.aap.org/policy/re9946.html

   i thought this information would be helpful. if any of you find some of this information false, i apologies…im just telling you what i heard and what is on the information packet that was handed out.

   • ANSWER:
     I read all of this…even though I am pregnant with baby #3..lol so I know everything..lol but thanks and I love reading things about children since they are my pride and joy! I want to protect them as much as i can!!

3. QUESTION:
   At what age…? Baby safety questions – Help!?
   Do you quit letting your child use the pacifier?

   Do you switch to a toddler bed?
   From a toddler bed to a traditional bed?

   Do you allow your child a pillow?

   Do you quit covering outlets?

   Do you quit using baby monitors when they are asleep?

   Do you quit using baby gates around stairs?

   I’m curious as to what your family has done – or what the experts say.
   Thanks!
   Do you quit letting your child use the pacifier?
   My oldest quit at 18 months – but he was an easy child (and I was pregnant w/brother and didn’t want any confusion over what was a baby item and what wasn’t) – My youngest is 2 and still has it at nap/night, but never any other time. I’d like to break him of it, but it is hard (both boys sleep in the same room – space issue)

   Do you switch to a toddler bed?
   Oldest @ 2.5 so baby brother could have the crib. Youngest, at around 20 months – was ready…

   From a toddler bed to a traditional bed?
   When we have the finances/space…

   Do you allow your child a pillow?
   When they start to sleep in a toddler bed!

   Do you quit covering outlets?
   We still have ours covered. Our oldest is 4, and still attempts to mess with them occasionally…

   Do you quit using baby monitors when they are asleep?
   We still use them – hubby is dependent…

   Do you quit using baby gates around stairs?
   We still use it (ages 4 & 2)…
   Thanks to everybody who answered. I wanted to get peoples opinions on when some of these safety measures aren’t needed anymore.

   I do strongly agree that the BIGGEST factors in determining whether a particular safety feature is needed or not is family situations and child’s personalities. Because there is no right/wrong answer on this – I am going to have a tough time picking best!

   Once again, thank you

   • ANSWER:
     Pacifier ends at age 1 for my daughter-Its a pet peeve of mine seeing toddlers running around with pacis.

     My Crib’s safety suggestions suggest switching from the Crib to the Toddler bed at 15 months. Then at 50 lbs it suggests switching it to the regular bed.

     A baby under the age of 1 for sure does not need a pillow-I would say when switching the Crib to a Toddler bed, then add a pillow.

     Baby monitors aren’t really needed unless you are planning on being on the opposite side of the house a lot.

4. QUESTION:
   Is it ok for a baby to sleep on a soft surface?
   My baby seems to be uncomfortable on the hard (recommended) mattress so i often place him on a pillow with a safety positioner on either side – does anyone else do this? I’m also concerned about his flat spot so the sfter surface seems to be good for this aswell. I can’t find any research that says it’s bad for his back…..

   • ANSWER:
     No. It isn’t okay. Newborns are to sleep on a firm surface – never on really soft blankets or pillows, or on an adult bed. In studies of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) it has said to be a possible cause – newborns laid down for sleep on soft surfaces… and even put down to sleep on their bellys. I wouldn’t risk it.

5. QUESTION:
   Attachment Parents, what baby gear did you use?
   Trying to figure out how much of this is just ‘fluff’. Sorry so much is listed. If its easier you can just copy/paste the list and delete out the entries you didn’t use. Also, if you have the time, please list reasons why you used or didn’t use certain items. THANK YOU!! You can also add to the list if you feel the need.

   Infant car seat
   Convertible car seat
   Basic stroller
   “Snap-on” stroller frame
   Jogging stroller
   Play yard
   Baby backpack
   Front carrier
   Sling or wrap carrier
   Diaper bag
   Activity Equipment
   Swing
   Bouncer/bouncy seat
   Activity center
   Play mat/gym
   Doorway jumper
   Crib
   Changing table
   Glider or rocker
   Bassinet
   Co-sleeper
   Hamper
   Coordinated crib bedding set
   Mobile
   Baby Dresser
   Decorations
   Baby monitor
   Bottles and nipples
   Highchair
   Utensils
   Plates and bowls
   Cups and sippy cups
   Burp cloths
   Bottle brush
   Bibs
   Electric breast pump
   Manual breast pump
   Nursing bras
   Nursing pillow
   Baby towel with hood
   Infant bathtub
   Tub for older baby
   Baby washcloths
   Brush and comb
   Baby nail clippers
   Safety gates
   Diaper pail
   Diaper pail refills
   Pacifiers
   Humidifier
   Birth announcements
   Baby book or scrapbook

   • ANSWER:
     I don’t know if I’m an attachment parent or not, but from the very little I know about AP I can safely say that I at least share similar views on most things.

     These are things we use regularly, if not daily:
     Infant car seat
     Play yard (although not so much now that my son has outgrown the bassinet part and isn’t quite mobile enough to need it again yet)
     Sling or wrap carrier (this has been absolutely invaluable to us, we wouldn’t want to live without at least one)
     Diaper bag; admittedly a small one, and mostly just for daycare and day long trips
     Crib, Bassinet; we used the bassinet for the first four months, after that he moved into the crib
     Swing, Bouncer/bouncy seat; we only have a travel swing at home, but he does seem to enjoy the bouncy seat at daycare
     Bottles and nipples, Bottle brush; I really wanted to breastfeed but was unable to, plus he needs to take a bottle at daycare while I’m at work
     Hamper
     Baby towel with hood, Baby washcloths, Infant bathtub; admittedly a regular towel would work just as well, but we got a bunch of hooded towels as gifts
     Diaper pail; we use a reusable liner (cloth diapers)
     Humidifier; this is really more for us than the baby, we’ve always had to use one during winter
     Safety gates; currently being used mostly for the dogs, but I would consider these essential for any house once the baby is mobile
     Pacifiers; we use these on and off, he goes through stages where he really likes them and stages where he won’t take them
     Baby nail clippers; probably not essential, but I do find them easier to control than regular clippers
     Changing table; a lot of people say it’s a waste of money, but I use mine every single day and it doubles as storage for diapers, wipes, burp rags, and blankets
     Glider or rocker; again, not essential, but I LOVE mine and found it very worth the money (we bought it used for about )
     Bibs; we didn’t use them much until we started solids, but now we go through several a day.

     Birth announcements, Baby book or scrapbook, Coordinated crib bedding set, Mobile; these are all just fluff, but they are things I wanted and enjoy anyway. And my son really enjoys “talking” to his mobile. We also have a soft-bristled baby brush that we do use occasionally, but if we suddenly lost it I don’t think I’d worry about replacing it.

     We don’t have a dresser because our nursery is just too small. Instead we either hang his clothes or put them in canvas baskets on shelves in the closet.

     We do have a stroller that works with the car seat. But since we have the slings we generally find it easier to use that than fight with the stroller. The sling is more maneuverable (I can go anywhere with it) and takes up no space in the car. I do anticipate using it more when our son is older and when I have more than one child. But for now it’s just sitting in his closet.

6. QUESTION:
   When did you let your baby sleep with a blanket and pillow?
   My daughter is 9 months old now and I put her in one of those sleep sacks right now. Of course I do this because of SIDS safety but also because my daughter pulls everything ( especially cloth ) to her mouth and chews on it. Also she ROLLS ALL over the place in her crib so I’d be to nervous. Her crib is right next to my bed but still…..
   I guess I’m wondering if when she’s 1 year if I could give her a blankie? Or a pillow? I will probably be moving her into her room then..I promised my bf when she was born only 1 year but I LOVE co-sleeping right now so I really don’t know.
   Thanks

   • ANSWER:
     I think my youngest started to use a throw pillow in the pack-n-play while napping at like 11 months old. he had a cold and needed to be propped up. Shortly after that I found a travel pillow at wal-mart and bought that for him. it is like 1/3-1/2 the size of a normal pillow. He rolled off of it every night for a few months, but now he likes it. I like it b/c it is just the right size for him.

     I have always put a blanket over my kids. they usually ended up in bed with me I did not want to really bundle them up. Plus most of the sleep sacs are sleeveless and my kids get cold arms and hands.

7. QUESTION:
   Can someone give me a basic baby checklist and tell me what else I need for newborn?
   I need a checklist of just essentials I’m going to need for my newborn comming soon. Honestly, I’ve been lagging on buying baby stuff, mostly because I don’t want a lot of clothes laying around and wish to wait ’til the baby is born to buy specific gender clothes. This is my second baby in two years, so I have an idea of what is most needed for newborns, but I’d like some help on things I might have forgotten.

   So far I have
   Two small boxes of Huggies Newborn diapers
   3pk Vent Aire Bottles
   2pk A-Vent Bottles
   Newborn pacifier
   3-6m pacifier
   New bobby pillow
   1 3pk of newborn shirts with the mitten cuff
   2 5pks of 5-8lbs onsies
   2 5pks of 8-10lbs(I think) onsies
   New baby bath and foam pad
   2 baby hooded towels
   4 baby washcloths
   Basic baby safety kit(nose sucker/thermometer/clippers/etc)
   Crib
   2 new crib sheets
   1 4pk of recieving blankets
   New travel size swing
   Bottles rack(orginally my son’s)

   What I know I need
   Baby bath soap
   Baby washing soap
   Wipes!!
   Blankets
   Bottle brush
   Latex nipples for bottles
   Formula(if I don’t breastfeed)
   Baby mittens
   Newborn pants
   Bouncer
   Crib mobile
   Playyard
   More recieving blankets/towels/newborn shirts

   Basically it, I plan on buying clothes and toys as the baby grows because I know they don’t need much as newborns but the basics.

   Is there anything else I need to buy before the baby comes? I know I need to stock up on wipes and diapers and I will, these are the things I basically have right now and will get more later.
   Oh yes, I know I forgot SOCKS!! How many packs do I need to buy??
   Also, I wasn’t planning on having another baby for years, so I ended up giving away most of my son’s old bouncers/walker and stuff to charity before I found out I was expecting ^.^ good thing I kept the strollar and carseat

   • ANSWER:
     how about a car seat & stroller

8. QUESTION:
   For people who already have had a baby :] Do I have everything I need?
   My baby boy is due in May, here’s a list of what I have so far, am I missing anything?

   .Clothes (onsies, sleepers, socks, mittens, sweaters, pants, hats, soft shoes)
   .Blankets, bath towels, wash cloths
   .Baby products (oil, wipes, lotion, soap, powder, cream, q tips etc.)
   .Carseat
   .Stroller
   .Diaper bag (already packed :])
   .Crib (sheets, mobile, positioner…)
   .Changing table
   .Bouncer
   .Swing
   .Jumper
   .Car mirror and shades
   .Baby safety set (nail clippers, thermometer, baby medicine…)
   .Baby book and photo albums
   .Bassinet
   .Baby bathtub
   .Toy chest (full of toys)
   .Bottles and breast pump

   Things I haven’t bought yet and are pretty sure I am going to are:
   .High chair
   .Gates for his playroom
   .Pillow for breastfeeding
   .Contents for overnight bag for the hospital, I have the bag with a few things in it…but not everything yet.

   Am I forgetting anything? I thinks that’s everything..

   Thanks :]
   Oh yeah the baby carrier, I almost forgot! Thanks :]

   • ANSWER:
     I agree with everything Arlene G said. It sounds like you have pretty much everything covered for the baby so don’t forget about yourself. This is coming from experience because no one even told me to take any of those things for myself. My poor husband was always having to run to the store for extra things.

     I would suggest bringing something to keep all the paperwork in. You will have lots and it’s so easy to just put them in one place so you aren’t worried about losing or forgetting them.

     Also have some healthy snacks for when the baby comes home because I know I wasn’t able to eat for more than 5 mins at a time . Escpecially because she had colic.

     You might want to get some baby gas drops just in case.

     And this is a personal choice but I now have a wrap for the baby and wish I had looked into them sooner so maybe you could check out those. But other than that it seems as if you are all set. Congratulations!

Why A Will Is Not Enough To Save Anna Nicole Smith’s Baby Daughter?

By Rocco Beatrice

Health And Safety Are Yours With Any Medela Breastpump

Author: medelapump19

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/babies-articles/health-and-safety-are-yours-with-any-medela-breastpump-1254515.html

About the Author

This is Michelle – I’m a mother of 3 kids, all under 4 years old, and I’ve medela breast pumps them all. It wasn’t easy, but I learned as I went and I realized how so many other moms either get discouraged and give up breastfeeding or never try it at all – it’s a powerful and wonderful experience,and I recommend every mother tries it.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. QUESTION:
   which is better for the baby’s health and safety: cloth diapers or regular disposable diapers?

   got to help with changing sister in law’s baby but hate the smell.

   • ANSWER:
     Cloth diapers are better for the child’s health. When disposables are being made the workers have to wear a environmental suit as they mix the chemicals for the disposable diapers.Disposables are made mostly of soft, fluffy pulp which is produced by chemically treating wood fibers. The pulp undergoes a whitening and softening process when it is exposed to chlorine-based bleaching agents, such as chlorine gas and chlorine dioxide. Now could you imagine all those chemicals near the sensitive parts of a baby?

     Cloth diapers are being made better than those of yester years. They are more absorbent and breathable than the disposable. They do not contaminate our environment by laying in a landfill. Basically a disposable diaper becomes mummified in a landfill because they are unable to break down in that environment. Thereby staying there for future generations.

     Human feces can contain harmful pathogens (for example, babies who have been vaccinated for polio will excrete poliovirus) when feces is discarded with disposable diapers there is a potential for public exposure via rodents and bugs.

     i’ve included some sites to check out with more information on cloth diapering and the pros and cons of disposable.

     When changing the baby, rinse it in the toilet to remove any feces and then place the cotton diaper into the diaper pail with natural soap.

2. QUESTION:
   Question about birth weight, and health of babies born before 37 weeks.?
   OK so I am asking because I have had some complications come up with my blood pressure and was diagnosed with pregnancy induced hypertension today- it is very possible to turn into preeclampsia because my protein levels are above average however not enough to diagnose pre-e. in a 24 hr. urinalysis less than 150 is normal and anything more than 300 is mild preeclamsia- mine was 224

   I will be 30 weeks on friday, I have been put on bed rest and weekly appointments as well as an ultrasound on friday to make sure that our little girl is developing as she should.

   The Dr. told me that our goal right now is to get to 34-36 weeks and then they may induce depending on the situation with my blood pressure and the progress of preeclampsia. He also informed me that they will most likely not allow me to go all the way to my due date and would likely be induced by 38 weeks.

   I am just trying to get information about premature birth- I would love everything to be natural but I am accepting things as they come and acknowledge that Dr.s are doing this for the safety of not only me but my baby as well.

   So my questions are. . .
   What week did you deliver in?
   How much did the baby weigh?
   How was the health- NICU Stay??
   How long were both of you in the Hospital and did the baby get to go home with you?
   what are the long term health issues you have had to deal with?

   Thank you ahead of time:)

   ps do you think there is a link between higher birth weight and less time spent in the hospital?

   • ANSWER:
     In case you don’t feel like reading everything I wrote, here’s the most important part–get “The Premature Baby Book” by Dr. Sears. It is a lifesaver.

     –I delivered my son at 34 weeks.
     –He weighed 4lbs, 12oz. The normal range at 34 weeks is 4 1/2 to 5 1/2 lbs, and boys tend to be slightly heavier.
     –He was healthy in all ways, but didn’t yet have the suck-swallow-breathe reflex, which means he couldn’t breast (of bottle) feed. This tends to kick in around 36 weeks for boys, a couple weeks earlier for girls. Because of this, he had to be tube-fed (called ‘gavage’) and (painfully slowly) taught to eat. He was in the NICU for 13 days.
     –I stayed in the hospital 3 days, so I had to go home w/o my baby. It was hard, but the next two weeks were the worst–leaving him each night in the care of others was so upsetting. I spent as much time as possible there.
     –Long term, nothing major, but his development lags behind full-term babies, so even now at 13 months, I am CONSTANTLY explaining to people why he hits his milestones later than their child of the same age. People always think he’s younger than he is and it’s frustrtaing, cause some people act like there must be something wrong, or they try to make me feel better as if they think I must be upset that he’s behind. But he’s exacly where he should be–six weeks behind a full-term baby. I look forward to when he’s at an age where it’s no longer evident that he’s behind so I can stop explainng and getting questioned.
     –During the first few months, preemies can be A LOT more demanding than the average baby. They sleep more, but it is in shorter spurts, so you will sleep very, very little. It’s hard to put into words the extreme sleep deprivation. I actually hallucinated at one point because of it. They can be crankier and gassier because their bodies aren’t really ready to be accepting milk yet. This can last many months (about 6 for us). Your baby will not be able to go out much, especially during the flu season in his/her first year, but also during the first 3 months you practically have to become a hermit. Since a full-term baby is supposed to stay inside and not among crowds until 6 weeks, it’s 6 weeks PLUS however many weeks your preemie was early. Every little thing can be a sign of something more serious with a preemie because they are more likely to come down with, well, just about everything, so even at seemingly-minor signs, you may have to take the baby to the ER. Your baby will need to be bundled up, including a hat, until they hit 7 lbs, and possibly will still have unusually low temp. readings that can be scary.
     I’m not trying to scare you at all. Just prepare you. But on the other side, you and your preemie will have an intense bond because they need such close attention, monitoring, and care, and unlike full-ter babies, you get no 4 or 5 hours to sleep while they do. You will be with your baby all the time. I HIGHLY recomend you keep your preemie as close as possible. They thrive with ‘kangaroo care,’ meaning skin-to-skin contact, and the SIDS risk is higher with preemies, so you want them sleeping as close as safely possible (check into bedside co-sleepers, or at least keep him/her in a bassinet right beside you).

     And one more thing–this is YOUR baby. NICU nurses can be possesive. If you see ANYTHING that makes you uncomfortable, like a nurse handling or bathing your baby in a way you feel is not gentle enough, SPEAK UP. You can, for example, say you don’t want anyone but you and the baby’s father to bathe him/her. You will forever regret it if you don’t speak up.

3. QUESTION:
   Please help! Am I being unreasonable about baby safety?
   Hi, im 22 and i first time mum to be living in Germany, and my question is: do you think its unreasonable to disallow your newborn child into a house that is not baby safe?

   My husbands parents are kind of expecting to be able to have the baby for afternoons in their own house (rather then coming down to our granny flat down stairs to see the baby). However at the present point i am really concerned about the lack of general health and safety in their house, its a hayfever haven! There are hundreds of bottles of chemicals just lying around the place, even in areas where they prepare food. Not to mention the dangerous objects laying around the baby could get hold of, the dirty cat food bowls that sit around for weeks before being washed, the cartons of fresh milk that sit out all day in the warm, the cat hair that is never vacuumed from the sofa, dust sits everywhere in the lounge room; my hands burn just from touching their laundry or bathroom from the amount of chemicals used in them. And their cooking standards (ie not mixing raw meats ETC.) still shock me!

   Don’t get me wrong, im no way an uptight, ritualistic, clean freak, and i realize that people from different countries do things different (I’m originally from Australia), BUT i do expect a little bit cleanliness around the house and chemicals (if one must use them) at least put away in a safe place if there is a baby around.

   And I dont want to stop my husbands parents from having the baby, but the health and safety of the house makes me really anxious, and would rather not unnecessarily expose the baby to chemicals.

   I was a nanny for quite a while before i was pregnant so im not completely naive as his parents like to think i am, but im really afraid to say something. Maybe im over reacting completely…? Either way none of the houses i worked in as a nanny, or my mother own house ever operated like this one. Should i say something?

   Any opinions on this would be really appreciated. Many thanks and im sorry this got so long! )

   • ANSWER:
     Momma knows best. That saying exists for a reason. From what you described I wouldn’t let a child of any age over there. It doesn’t sound safe.
     Maybe just tell them you’d like for them to come visit you and your child but also be upfront as to why you aren’t comfortable in their home. A simple “we just don’t feel comfortable having the baby there because of allergies and so many chemicals being exposed and around.” If all else fails, push it off on the doctor and say that the doctor said that the baby needs to stay in their own environment due to allergies. Who is going to argue with you if you tell them “the doctor said”.

     If confronting it head on isn’t something you feel you can handle then offer to come over WITHOUT the baby and help them kid proof their home and explain that you aren’t comfortable with your child being in a home that isn’t child proofed for safety issues that they probably don’t realize with a young baby/child and could you come to help them child proof.

4. QUESTION:
   What bottles are safe for my baby?
   After weeks of listening to the debate of whether or not BPA in baby bottles is bad or not I decided to err on the side of caution and purchase new bottles for my child.

   They interviewed the owner of Born Free baby bottles, leading you to believe this is one ofyour only options. I got on line to do some research. Now don’t get me wrong, my babies health and safety is worth any price, but the cost of these bottles prompted me to do further research and I thought I’d share my findings.

   Born Free offers both glass bottles and BPA free plastic bottles: Glass bottles are ea / Plastic for 2. The nipples are 2 for

   Nurture Pure offers Glass only at for 3 and 3 nipples for .50

   Gerber offers 2 BPA free plastic bottles ~ Clear View and Fashion Tints – I haven’t been able to find them so I don’t have prices (I know they are alot less expensive than the others). When I called they offered to mail coupons.
   On my quest for the Gerber bottles I went to Wal-Mart. Their Parent’s Choice brand offers BPA Free plastic bottles. A 3 pack is .96, the silicone nipples are 6 for .88. As that was my only choice at Wal-Mart I grabbed two. I’ve been using them since last night and my baby has no problem with them.

   Gerber actually has a toll free number on their site to call and they were very helpful. They told me the above bottles I mention were BPA free but their NUK bottles are not. The sip & smile and fun grips sippy cups are also BPA free (I have a toddler too).

   I hope this info. helps some of you too. As I said ~ if need be I wouldn’t hesitate to spend the money on the more costly bottles but it’s good to know there are less expensive alternatives.
   ***NOTE*** I posted this info a few days ago and it got deleted because it was not in the form of a question. Truth is one of the breast feeding advocates replied with a rude answer so I sent a friendly e-mail to her explaining my situation and why I am unable to breastfeed (not that I feel I owe anyone an explanation!). She clearly responded by reporting me. Very nice.

   Breastfeeding moms really need to consider that some moms are unable to breastfeed and feel very badly about it. Without knowing a persons situation many of you are entirely out of line placing judgement. I think most of us realize “breast is best” and don’t need to be made to feel bad about not being able to do it. Please consider peoples feelings before you lash out.
   Mother Martha, thank you for you response. I’m not a new mommy. Along with my 6 mos. old, that uses the bottles, I have a fast moving two year old. I also have tile flooring throughout my house and frankly I’m a bit of a klutz myself. Glass bottles are not an option for me.
   ***UPDATE*** After days of trying I finally got through to someone at AVENT (as those were the bottles I was using). Their bottles ARE made with polycarbonate which contains BPA.

   • ANSWER:
     MAM also makes BPA-free bottles. They are available online at target.com and walmart.com. .99 for (3) 5 oz or 9oz bottles

     FYI – I just checked the target and walmart websites and both of them show out of stock for the girl (pink and green) 3-pack. Target’s website says the bottles will be in stock in 2-3 weeks. However, as of right now, both websites show that the boy (blue/green) bottles are still available – so you are thinking about using them, I would order now.

5. QUESTION:
   What are your thoughts on home birth vs. hospital birth?
   Just curious… a friend of mine brought this up. And me and her are on opposite sides with the issue. She believes in it, and I do not. We both agree, its up to the woman… but we both also would make a different decision.

   My thoughts… why make the birth that much more risky by being at home? In all honesty, I think that giving birth is a risk in itself… nobody can ever say they are 100% sure their birth will have absolutely no complications… because there is always always a chance of complications… and so, if its your baby… why increase the odds of the outcome of that babies health being effected by the environment they are born into? Why take the gamble, if there are complications and you are not in the hospital where certain medical equipment or doctors are required then you are increasing the odds of that baby not getting the proper medical care it needs… I mean, in all honesty… why not ensure your babies safety and care during or after birth by being in a hospital where you can be sure any complications can be dealt with or at least given the opportunity to be dealt with… and not only the baby, but proper care for the mother also in the case that her health is effected by the birth also…

   what do you think? just looking for your thoughts…
   josephine: had you have known? You would NEVER have known that, no matter what the circumstance… at what point did you know for for 100% that your baby didn’t need extra medical care? I guarntee you, that you did not know that until a while after birth. You will never ever know for sure whether or not your baby didn’t need extra care… thats the whole point of being in the hospital…
   Pippin: low risk or high risk… either way, there is ALWAYS going to be a risk when giving birth. No matter what happens in the 9 months prior, you can never bee 100% sure that there is a low risk of complications… like other women posted on here, many women hemorhhage, or have emerg c-sections when giving birth. Or even maybe the baby comes out of the womb with complications, and if you are not in a hospital where maybe say an incubator is immediately accessible… what is putting that baby in an ambulance for a ride to the hospital gonne help? Your only putting that baby at MORE risk by making it travel a distance to seek more medical attention.. if needed.
   Also… if the hospital you go to has no anesthesiologist or what not for birthing, then all the MORE reason to choose a hospital to give birth at so you can ENSURE you are in an environment where all medical eqiupment and care will be provided if required…
   TrueBlue: I’d like to know the source of the statistics you just posted… where did you find that information, exactly, please? My husbands family lives in Europe, and not one woman in his family has had a home birth…

   Please… site your source on that statistic. Im very curious where you got that percentage from?
   TrueBlue: you said ” “took the gamble” bc i researched the risks, found that they were very minimal, practically non existent, and opted for homebirth”

   Whether a risk is minimal or not… thats NOT the point.. A risk is a risk… no matter what… you are putting that baby at risk of not having access to proper medical equipment and care by having it in your home… and that you kept your baby inside the home for 6 weeks is a bit barbaric, to me. The probability for disease and infection in fact increases in the first weeks of birth, and I can only imagine what kind an unsterile environment your home is. So congratulations to you… you did not have complications during birth… but if you had any complications, how could you live with yourself knowing you increased the odds of that babies outcome simply because you thought the risk was “minimal”

   FYI… toxemia, cords wrapped, incubation, small babies… these are all things that cannot be know beforehand.
   And just so you know… childbirth is VERY different than taking a #2… its also different than sex…

   haha.. your actually comparing childbirth to taking a poop… haha!
   True blue: Congratulations, you cited an opinionated book about birth. Where you get your so-called factual information, is not factual… thats someones OPINION. Let me know when you can find a statistic on what you said… and someones opinion doesn’t backup a fact.

   • ANSWER:
     If it is the first child, absolutely no way in hell.
     Subsequent births tend to go smoother, maybe then.

     The REASON home-birth have less complications etc.. is because they screen for problems and refuse to do home-births that are high-risk.

6. QUESTION:
   what is the likeliness of post natal depression getting worse?
   Hi,
   I got post nate after having my lil boy on the 5th dec 07 and started taking treatment for it (and i think i should add that 1 week after i had given birth to my lil boy my husband had to leave for 6 months to go to iraq so that contributed towards the depression, as i was only young and first time mum)
   Anyway i found out i was pregnant again oct 08 (was still taking treatment) and i read the leaflet that said to stop taking the tablets if pregnant or breastfeeding so i did and made an appointment with my GP and she said that i should really finish the course of medication (as i was that bad) but it hadn’t been prooven that taking the medication would not affect my unborn child. So in the interest of my babies health and safety i stopped taking them.

   I still feel really down and i am finding it hard to get excited about my baby and still feel as low as i did back in 07.
   Some people keep saying to me that this baby will pull me out of this spiral i feel like i am in, but im not seeing it happen, all i can see is myself getting worse (but i know that’s how depression make you feel)
   So i was just wondering what the chances are of it being the same or worse than last time?

   Thanks x
   i started off on citalopram and then went onto fluoxetine and my GP said same ablout both…no proof that they dont hurt baby

   • ANSWER:
     Maxatach – you may be a doctor, though I have my doubts, but you are advertising online medications and you should be ashamed of yourself.

     Danni, ignore the advice above!
     Go and see your doctor again and explain the situation. It might be helpful to get some ‘talking therapy’, but the first thing you need to do is to get the support of your doctor.

7. QUESTION:
   Is it safe to have a drink while breast feeding, if I express milk earlier?
   I’m due on the 20th of december and I was wanting to know is it ok to have one or two glasses of champagne or a beer on Christmas night or new years eve, if I express milk before I drink. I hope this doesn’t make me sound like an irresponsible mother. If you express enough milk for the night your drinking, and some for the day after, will the baby be safe? What are my options? I’m not talking about getting drunk either, just a few drinks. I would never do anything to jeopardise my babies health or safety.

   • ANSWER:
     No need to pump and dump if you are only drinking a couple glasses per week…

     ” * Current research says that occasional use of alcohol (1-2 drinks) is not harmful to the nursing baby. The American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Drugs classifies alcohol (ethanol) as a “Maternal Medication Usually Compatible With Breastfeeding.”
     * Many experts recommend against drinking more than 1-2 drinks per week.
     * It is recommended that nursing moms avoid breastfeeding during and for 2-3 hours after drinking (Hale 2002).
     * There is no need to pump & dump milk after drinking alcohol, other than for mom’s comfort — pumping & dumping does not speed the elimination of alcohol from the milk.
     * Alcohol does not increase milk production, and has been shown to inhibit let-down and decrease milk production (see below).
     * If you’re away from your baby, try to pump as often as baby usually nurses (this is to maintain milk supply, not because of the alcohol). At the very least, pump or hand express whenever you feel uncomfortably full – this will help you to avoid plugged ducts and mastitis.”

     http://www.kellymom.com/health/lifestyle/alcohol.html

8. QUESTION:
   Gerbil mom dead- is fostering an option?
   My gerbil had a litter of 5 pups. They’re 2 weeks old now and the mom died a few hours ago. I need to know ASAP if fostering is an option. I have a tank with a mated pair, and another tank with a single female.

   Which tank would be best for the babies safety and health?

   Do I just put the babies in there, or should I do something to make the transaction a little smoother?

   • ANSWER:
     Do not put your babies in where there is a male gerbil, as he will kill them. Are the babies eating on their own? If so, they can be left to grow on their own. Many females rodents are funny, some will accept anothers babies, while others will kill them. If I were you, I wouldn’t put them with any of your females, they may be ok alone.

Baby Safety and Hazards

Author: TravisOl

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/home-and-family-articles/baby-safety-and-hazards-1208896.html

About the Author

You will find all sorts of baby safety products in our online baby shop starting with baby safety furniture and ending with baby safety car seats.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. QUESTION:
   Do plugging childsafety covers into outlets use energy like vampire appliances that suck energy even when off?
   I know that appliances left plugged in, even when turned off, still suck energy. Do baby safety plugs covers, even if not truly pulling to any item, suck energy of any kind?

   • ANSWER:
     umm no, they’re made of plastic. plastic does not conduct energy.

     as for appliances, just check for the energy star logo. anything with this logo will not draw energy when not in use.

2. QUESTION:
   Experienced tips for crafty baby safety?
   My 10 month old daughter is resourceful. She’s into everything, obsessed with electrical outlets, glass objects and anything with a “no” attached to it. Really– I have a 5 year old son and he’s very smart in my opinion, but he has never been a child who was “into everything.” However, she is fast and persistent. I’m having to really step up my game to keep her safe.

   We stopped buying the tough electrical covers like the “Double Tough” and even the two handed ones when my son was a baby because we could so easily redirect him from dangerous areas. My daughter can remove the simple plug covers in the blink of an eye. She is crawling fast and starting to cruise. I need to be ahead of her!

   What are your favorite outlet covers and why and what safety tips have you found valuable?
   Thank you!

   • ANSWER:
     I bought safety 1st covers for the outlets. My baby is into everything as well. I just have to keep a close eye on him. I also have designated areas that are clear of anything but toys for him to play with. I have dozens of toys all over these areas to keep him entertained. Other than that I’m always watching. He’s horrible about eating the tiniest thing. I dont know how he finds the stuff. i could have just swept and mopped but he finds it. I know when to check his mouth because he gets real quiet. lol I have the luxury of only having the one kid so its easier for me to watch him but I guess I don’t know any different because he’s the only one I have and he’s always been quick and resourceful. He climbs the entire flight of stairs in about 15 seconds. I don’t always have the gate up because the dog needs to get in and out so I can’t turn my back for a second.

3. QUESTION:
   My baby is starting to crawl?
   He is into everything and I’m new in the UK, does anyone know where I can find home safety stuff, like outlet cover plugs, baby gates for the stairs etc.? Also where would be a good place to buy developmental toys for this stage? I appreciate any help.

   • ANSWER:
     Boots ( chemists) are usually found in smallish towns. Larger towns will have the bigger stores that stock the widest ranges.
     Also Toys R Us, John Lewis department stores, Early Learning Centre shops, Mothercare – these as the name suggests, are a specialist store for babies and toddlers and older too. They are often found in out of town shopping centres as well as some high streets.

     Toys: Look for ones that will increase his hand -eye co-ordination or dexterity. 2 or 3 piece “jigsaws”, Toy hammer and pegs, the larger push button interactive style toys; tray style boards with different shaped pictures cut out and with small pegs that let him slot the cut-out back into the correct shape.
     Important at any age are books, especially at his stage the cardboard style with large pictures and one or two words, story books with large pictures that you can read to him and let him point to things illustrated in the picture.

4. QUESTION:
   Any safety devices to keep babies from unplugging items from electrical outlets?
   We have plenty of outlet covers, locks, etc but the babies seem obsessed with trying to unplug anything currently occupying an outlet – are there any devies out there that “lock” a plug into an outlet so that a baby cannot easily pull it out?

   • ANSWER:
     This is what you want, they are awesome:

     http://www.safety1st.com/product.asp?productID=170

5. QUESTION:
   Baby proofing?
   Do people with young kids use toilet locks like this one? http://store.babycenter.com/product/safety+-+baby+care/bathing/bathroom+safety/toilet+lock.do?asc=false I have never seen this before.
   So far, I have installed electrical outlet covers. What other baby proofing items would you consider essential?

   • ANSWER:
     I never used a toilet lock and luckily my little girl never showed any interest in it..I would wait and see what they go for and then buy the extras like that…of course I had elicrical outlet covers…I also had corner covers on the coffee tables to stop banged heads…my sister had a thing on her gas cooker so they didnt turn the gas on…I had stair gates and a fire guard…that was it I think.

6. QUESTION:
   how much do these baby supplies cost?
   they are miscellaneous items. camera and film, safety covers and locks, electrical outlet covers, latches for cabinets, toys, sheets adn blankest, nail clippers, a crib mobile, and books and music.

   • ANSWER:

7. QUESTION:
   At what age…? Baby safety questions – Help!?
   Do you quit letting your child use the pacifier?

   Do you switch to a toddler bed?
   From a toddler bed to a traditional bed?

   Do you allow your child a pillow?

   Do you quit covering outlets?

   Do you quit using baby monitors when they are asleep?

   Do you quit using baby gates around stairs?

   I’m curious as to what your family has done – or what the experts say.
   Thanks!
   Do you quit letting your child use the pacifier?
   My oldest quit at 18 months – but he was an easy child (and I was pregnant w/brother and didn’t want any confusion over what was a baby item and what wasn’t) – My youngest is 2 and still has it at nap/night, but never any other time. I’d like to break him of it, but it is hard (both boys sleep in the same room – space issue)

   Do you switch to a toddler bed?
   Oldest @ 2.5 so baby brother could have the crib. Youngest, at around 20 months – was ready…

   From a toddler bed to a traditional bed?
   When we have the finances/space…

   Do you allow your child a pillow?
   When they start to sleep in a toddler bed!

   Do you quit covering outlets?
   We still have ours covered. Our oldest is 4, and still attempts to mess with them occasionally…

   Do you quit using baby monitors when they are asleep?
   We still use them – hubby is dependent…

   Do you quit using baby gates around stairs?
   We still use it (ages 4 & 2)…
   Thanks to everybody who answered. I wanted to get peoples opinions on when some of these safety measures aren’t needed anymore.

   I do strongly agree that the BIGGEST factors in determining whether a particular safety feature is needed or not is family situations and child’s personalities. Because there is no right/wrong answer on this – I am going to have a tough time picking best!

   Once again, thank you

   • ANSWER:
     Pacifier ends at age 1 for my daughter-Its a pet peeve of mine seeing toddlers running around with pacis.

     My Crib’s safety suggestions suggest switching from the Crib to the Toddler bed at 15 months. Then at 50 lbs it suggests switching it to the regular bed.

     A baby under the age of 1 for sure does not need a pillow-I would say when switching the Crib to a Toddler bed, then add a pillow.

     Baby monitors aren’t really needed unless you are planning on being on the opposite side of the house a lot.

8. QUESTION:
   What are essential/best baby items to have as a new parent? What’s junk? What’s invaluable? Hints? Tips?
   (Sorry this is so long! Many thanks in advance to those who reply!)

   We are at week 34 awaiting the arrival of our Babygirl. Gifts and hand-me-downs are starting to come in that we’re marking off the “need to get” list (per Babies R Us).

   We still have lots we need to get, so I wanted to ask for your opinions. For all those moms and dads out there, I have attached, below, the Babies R Us “Parents Checklist.” What is necessary? What is not? What is invaluable? What did you get on a whim and are eternally grateful for having? What turned out to be nothing but junk? What brands are the best (i.e., I hear that Boudreaux’s “Butt Paste” is the best there is)?

   I’m starting to scout out Craigslist and eBay for deals (who the heck knew breast pumps were unbelievably expensive??? At least I can get new, in box items from eBay and save a few if I watch like a hawk!). If any of you have insights that you would share, we would be very grateful. Thanks!

   THE LIST

   Infant Care
   Safety