Our Favorite Products
Adventures in parenting happen at home and on the road, and these are all of the things we use and love with our kids. Drawing from many parents and our kiddos, these are the products that are actually worth buying.
Here’s Every Baby + Toddler Product We Love
Whether it’s the best mommy and me matching clothing, sun hats for babies, or Montessori-inspired toys meant to help your child learn and grow, these are our favorite products for our babies and toddlers.
The Best Advent Calendars for 2-3 Year Old Boys
There’s something magical about advent calendars when you’re a kid. Each little door or drawer holds a tiny surprise, counting down to the ultimate celebration. For a 2- or 3-year-old, it’s pure joy—a daily spark of excitement and a memory-making tradition that sets the tone for the season. This year, we’ve done the research (and…
The Best Black Friday Sales for Baby Gear 2024
Fellow parents, the day has arrived. It’s kind of like Christmas, but better. It’s Black Friday when you have young kids and those young kids seem to need a whole lot of things. Whether you’re expecting or have a little one at home already, these are some of the best deals on baby gear, including…
Is Hill House Home Worth the Hype? I Tried it To Find Out
So, is Hill House Home worth it? I’d say yes—for the right person. If you’re all-in on that East Coast vibe or do wear dresses casually, there’s plenty to love. But for me, it’s the kids’ line that’s worth coming back for. I don’t love it as much as Rylee and Cru and Bums and…
WayB Pico Car Seat Review: Perfectly Portable but with Some Trade-Offs
If there’s one travel item I’ve grown to be picky about, it’s car seats. You’re essentially bringing along a bulky, toddler-sized safety cocoon for every leg of the journey, and if it’s difficult to install, uncomfortable for the kiddo, or an issue in any way, it becomes a huge stressor. Safety is the most important…
Are Lovevery Play Kits Worth It for Toddlers? My Honest Take
We’ve loved Lovevery play kits since the beginning. Here’s everything to know about making the investment during the toddler years. Editor's Rating: 5 If there’s one thing I’ve learned about parenting, it’s that toy storage is a battle I was never prepared for. Between birthdays, holidays, and the unstoppable force that is extended family, we’ve…
Skip Hop Activity Center Review: Is It Worth It?
We did some research, and decided on the Skip Hop Activity Center. The modular setup is right up our alley (we love our Bugaboo Dragonfly stroller and Lovevery play gym for that reason), and most other parents who have one, rave about it. After 2 months of consistent use, this is my honest review about…
Are Seraphine Babywearing Coats Worth Buying?
When I first saw photos of the Seraphine Babywearing coat, I thought it looked adorable and wondered if they were worth it. We had one of the biggest winters on record where I live (near Lake Tahoe) and had a few big winter trips planned as well when my baby was about 3-8 months old….
Is No Reception Club The Best Travel Diaper Bag? I Tried it to Find Out!
I tested the No Reception Club Getaway Diaper Bag on a 3 week trip in Europe, here’s what I honestly think Editor's Rating: 5 I’ve just returned from a three week trip in Europe where we used the No Reception Club Getaway diaper bag as our main diaper bag. This means it went on several…
The Best Diaper Bags for Two Kids
One of the things I take the greatest pride in as a mom is how much I can fit in my diaper bag. Whether we’re going to a restaurant, leaving for a trip, or visiting the library, I’ve found it’s best to overpack and overprepare. With two young kids in tow, I never leave the…
The Best Travel Diaper Bags: Our 20 Favorite Picks
When it comes to traveling with little ones, a diaper bag is more than just a place to stash diapers and wipes. It’s the one bag that holds all the essentials and keeps them close at hand for that crucial moment when you need to find a clean pacifier during takeoff and can’t waste a…
Little Bloomer Play Boxes Honest Review
As a first-time parent with a full-time job, playtime with my baby is very precious to me. I make a conscious effort to select toys that are not only fun, but also support motor skills development, and encourage parents’ involvement, so we can have fun together as she learns! I avoid battery-operated toys, and keep…
Is the Guava Lotus Travel Bassinet and Crib Worth It? (Not Sponsored Review!)
Editor's Rating: 5 When I was building out my baby registry I came across all kinds of premium products and wondered if any of them were truly worth it. Like the SNOO Smart Sleeper, Artipoppe baby carrier, anything by Nuna or UPPA Baby, Willow wearable breast pumps, and of course, the Guava Lotus Bassinet and…
Is the Elvie Pump Worth it? My Honest Thoughts
Is the Elvie pump worth it? I tested multiple wearable pumps and ended up exclusively pumping. These are my thoughts. Editor's Rating: 5 Breastfeeding can be a beautiful journey, but for some of us, it doesn’t quite go as planned. I always envisioned nursing my baby with ease, but after numerous struggles and about six…
Is the Bentley Trike Worth It? My Honest Thoughts
Is the Bentley Trike worth it? Apart from how sleek it looks, does it make sense to shell out on this particular trike, or any trike, for your kiddo? Editor's Rating: 4 Is the Bentley Trike worth it? Apart from how sleek it looks, does it make sense to shell out on this particular trike,…
Is the Slumberpod Worth It? My Honest Thoughts After 2 Years
Editor's Rating: 4.5 Is the Slumberpod worth it? You’ve likely seen it on social media and wondered, is this actually the godsend they say it is? After some deliberation, I bought one and tested it so that we an answer the question once and for all: Will it help everyone get better sleep on vacation,…
Is Little Trouble Kids Clothing Worth It? My Honest Thoughts
Last month I got it in my head that Felix and I needed more mommy and me matching outfits, which led me to the bitter disappointment that many brands make boys’ clothing as an afterthought or seem to think that a toddler will do well in a button down shirt that needs pressing. Editor's Rating:…
10 More Affordable Artipoppe Dupes
Dear mammas (and pappas and nonbinary parents), I know you love the patterns of Artipoppe carriers or maybe you’re drawn in by the fit and the beautiful fabrics, but oh my gosh, that price tag! With carriers that start at $370, it can be tough to make an investment that large into something that you’re…
10 BEST Bamboo Baby Clothes (We Tried Them All!)
We’re lovers of bamboo clothing in this family. It’s perfect to layer in the winter, the ideal light fabric in the summer, and when my son developed eczema, it became the only fabric we wanted on his body. I also bought us a family set of bamboo PJs for Christmas, then another set, because they…
Is a Kitchen Helper Worth it? The 7 Best Options
When I was still pregnant, I listened to parenting books like Bringing Up Bebe and Hunt, Gather, Parent that encouraged allowing toddlers to be part of cooking and meal prep. It made sense – the earlier they get exposed to something, especially when they want to mimic everything we do, the more likely they are…
Is the Stokke Tripp Trapp Worth It? I Tried It to Find Out!
Picture this: a high chair that grows with your child from birth, seamlessly blending into your home decor, and making baby-led weaning a breeze. Intrigued? I was too. But then I looked at the price of the Stokke Tripp Trapp and went for the Clikk instead on my registry, only to regret it and ultimately…
The Best Travel Diapers for Babies and Toddlers
You’re planning a trip, and amidst the frenzy of packing, organizing, and mentally preparing yourself for the adventure ahead, you suddenly realize you’ve overlooked one crucial aspect—diapers. Yep, that’s right, diapers. If you’re a parent like me, you know that when it comes to traveling with little ones, choosing the right diaper can make all…
The Best Toddler Carriers – I Tried Them All!
Let’s talk about toddler carriers. You know, those magical contraptions that allow you to carry your little one around while still having your hands free to juggle all the chaos life throws at you? Yeah, those. I baby wore often when my little guy was small. The carreir was his happy place. I imagined we…
Is Tushbaby Worth the Hype? My Honest Thoughts
My honest thoughts after trying out the Tushbaby hip carrier with my toddler Editor's Rating: 4 Parenting is a beautiful journey filled with countless precious moments. However, it’s no secret that it can also be physically demanding, especially when you have a little one who still craves being carried around despite their growing independence. This…
Goodbuy Gear vs. Rebelstork – I Tried Both to See Which is Better
If you’re a parent diving deep into the world of baby gear – a realm of strollers, cribs, and all things tiny human, you might have stumbled upon two popular platforms: GoodBuy Gear and Rebelstork. Both have great deals on secondhand (or open box) items, and you’re probably wondering if they’re legit. I’ve bought several…
The Best Nontoxic Play Couches
A few months ago, I started to think a play couch might be a good idea. It would save our nice couch, hopefully provide hours of entertainment with endless combinations, and at the very least be extra comfy. I was overwhelmed by the sheer amount of options. I knew I wanted something quality that wouldn’t…
The Best Dagne Dover Dupes
Dagne Dover have made a name for themselves when it comes to diaper bags that are chic, durable, and make a statement. They’re kind of the Artipoppe of the diaper bag world, which means that in addition to a cult-like following, they’re on the pricey side. But are there Dagne Dover dupes out there that…
My Honest Milk x Whiskey Diaper Bag Review
Is Milk x Whiskey’s Adventure Diaper Bag backpack worth it? We put it to the test! Editor's Rating: 5 A few months ago I was sitting at my computer when an email came in about a new diaper bag in town. It sounded right up my alley – it’s billed as an ‘adventure proof’ diaper…
The 10 BEST Bamboo Toddler Clothes
When we brought my baby home from the hospital, he was wearing a bamboo onesie. Ever since, after trying the adult sized jammies myself, I’ve been obsessed with how soft they are. There’s truly nothing more comfortable except for wearing, well, nothing. My son spent his baby year wearing bamboo clothes, but now that he’s…
10 BEST SNOO Alternatives
As someone who’s navigated the winding path of motherhood, I understand the importance of finding the perfect sleep solution for your infant – ideally one that doesn’t equal the price of a used car. When I first heard about the SNOO, I was convinced it was the only option out there, but now I know…
Is Bums and Roses Bamboo Baby Clothing Worth it? My Thoughts After a Year
Are Bums and Roses bamboo baby and toddler clothes worth it? After testing several styles for over a year, these are my honest thoughts. Editor's Rating: 4.5 When I was researching the best bamboo baby clothes, I came across quite a few companies and knew that in order to write the best reviews, I had…
Dagne Dover Diaper Bag Review: Are They Worth Your Money?
Editor's Rating: 5 When deciding on baby gear as a soon-to-be mom four years ago, I chose an inexpensive backpack-style diaper bag. Although I liked the bag’s look, it quickly became evident that the materials weren’t durable, and the design was lacking. There was no way to open the narrow bag wide enough to visualize…
The 10 Best Baby Travel Bassinets
If you’re traveling with your baby in those precious first few months of life, you’ll need a designated safe spot for your little one to sleep. Depending on your accommodations, a hotel crib may be an option, but many parents opt to travel with a portable bassinet. We’ve scoured the market for the very best…
The Best Gifts for One Year Olds
What are the best gifts you could get a one year old? What toys or experiences will not only hold their attention, but give their parents a moment or two of peace? From the big stuff to the small and meaningful, these have been our favorite gifts for our one year olds, pooling ideas from…
The 40 Best Gifts for Two-Year-Old Boys
Tailoring your birthday and holiday gifts to the evolving developmental stage — and short attention span! — of a two-year-old isn’t easy. We’ve learned from experience with our two young children which gifts are winners for young toddlers, and which ones aren’t worth the investment. Read on for our toddler-approved list of the 40 best…
The 50 Best Gifts for Three-Year-Old Boys
In our attempts as parents to find the best presents for toddler boys over the years, we’ve found some that are major hits — and some that are serious misses. Based on our experiences with toys, games, and other fun toddler gear, we’ve rounded up the 50 best gifts for three-year-old boys, all loved by…
The Best Baby Hiking Backpack Carriers (We Tested Them All!)
As an avid hiker, before, I became a parent, I knew that I still wanted to hit the trail as often as possible after having my baby. Beginning at his third month of age, our first hike involved a soft carrier before graduating to one with a frame, which provides more support and better weight…
Deuter Kid Comfort Pro – Worth it? My Honest Review
Is the Deuter Kid Comfort Pro worth buying? After testing both the Deuter and the Osprey, these are my honest thoughts. Editor's Rating: 4 As an avid hiker (and parent), I found myself in a dilemma when it came to choosing the perfect child carrier for our outdoor adventures. I started off with the Osprey…
Is the Ergobaby Aerloom Worth It? I Tried it to Find Out!
Editor's Rating: 3.5 The Ergobaby Aerloom is a carrier so lightweight it feels like wearing air – at least that’s how it’s marketed. And it’s not just about being light. The built-in airflow is mean to eliminate those sweaty struggles on those summer strolls – just breezy, comfy cuddles. It’s also a super lightweight carrier…
Ergobaby Evolve High Chair Review from a Mom
Ergobaby Evolve high chair review from a mom who uses it every day! Product Brand: Ergobaby Editor's Rating: 5 Once upon a time, I was building a baby registry and I knew that we would need a high chair. But which one should I choose? Drawn in by the positive reviews, I made the wrong…
Barumba Play Couch – An Honest Review From a Mom
Is the Barumba Play Couch worth buying? I’m a mom of a toddler and I tested it to find out in this full review! Editor's Rating: 5 If you’re in the market for a play couch, you might be coming across a truly overwhelming amount of choices. Which one is actually the best? Made from…
Is Goodbuy Gear Legit? My Firsthand Experience
Did you stumble across Goodbuy Gear whilst looking for discounted or secondhand baby items? Me too. I wondered, is it legit? Because the prices look pretty good, and they even have discounted unused items for sale from time to time, too. I like higher end brands for my baby, but I also love a good…
The Best Travel Baby Bathtub: Our Top 12 Favorites
Infant bathtubs are classically one of the bulkiest and most difficult baby items to travel with. Although you can always fill your large basin-style tub with baby clothes, toys, and other essential travel gear to throw in the trunk of the car, it can help to find more compact bath time solution for travel, especially…
20 BEST Baby Carriers for Travel in 2024
Baby carriers are compact, cuddly, and practical. They’re a new parent’s greatest fashion statement and a great way to keep babies close on away-from-home adventures without the bulk of a stroller. If you’re shopping for a new baby carrier for travel, we’ve done all the research for you and rounded up the 20 best picks…
The 15 Best Toddler Travel Beds in 2024
Figuring out where our children will sleep is one of the trickiest parts of planning family trips. Whether we’re booking a hotel, staying at a relative’s house, or camping, we’re always looking to create a solid night of sleep for our kids on adventures away from home. We’ve traveled with inflatable beds, bed rails, toddler…
30 Baby Beach Essentials: The Ultimate Mom-Approved Packing List
Once you’ve packed your beach bag, trekked to that perfect spot in the sand with your baby, and unloaded all your gear, there’s nothing worse than realizing you forgot to bring that one must-have item for your infant’s day. From a mom of two who loves to visit the shore with our young family, here’s…
Baby Bath Essentials: The Ultimate Checklist
Between collecting all the necessary supplies and making sure your child is warm and safe, preparing yourself for baby bathtime can be a daunting experience. Although baths generally get easier as little ones get older, it’s always best to make sure you have everything you need nearby before filling up the tub. From personal experience…
The 50 Best Toddler Travel Toys — All Mom-Tested and Approved!
When we set out for family adventures with our two toddlers, toys are always a priority on our packing list. Although we’ve been known to travel with large toys like our daughter’s Fisher-Price Piano and our son’s Strider Balance Bike, it’s important to find options that are compact, lightweight, and engaging for little ones away…
The Chicco QuickSeat Hook-on Chair: Complete Review and Comparison to the Inglesina Fast Chair
Chicco’s QuickSeat Hook-on Chair is one of those baby products that doesn’t get the attention it deserves. At a reasonable cost, this chair is sturdy, portable, and incredibly easy to use. In this honest and complete review of the Chicco QuickSeat Hook-on Chair, we’ll discuss all the pros, cons, and detailed features about this clip-on…
A Complete Ingenuity Baby Base Booster Seat Review
When you’re shopping for a booster seat or portable high chair, you’ll see that the market is flooded with appealing options. Parents can choose from traditional booster seats, floor seats, clip-on chairs, or standalone high chairs to keep their little ones safe and give them a spot at the table during meals. We’ve used the…
The 50 Best Baby Travel Toys — All Tested from Experience!
Whenever we travel with our two young kids, toys are always at the top of our packing list. We’ve even traveled cross-country with a suitcase designated for toys alone — so we’ve learned which ones are winners, and which ones aren’t worth the extra space. Read on for our complete list of the 50 best…