BABY CHANGING BAGS – How to choose the best baby changing bags for you & how to change a nappy?

At first changing a nappy can seem like a daunting task for new parents, but with a little practice and good baby changing bags it becomes easier and more efficient.

Here are some basic steps to changing a nappy:

  1. Gather your supplies: You will need a clean nappy, baby wipes, a changing mat or clean surface, and nappy rash cream (if needed). It’s important to have everything within reach before you start, so you don’t have to leave the baby unattended. As part of your supplies have something to keep your baby entertained! Such as a small toy or even let them hold the jar of Vaseline!
  2. Position your baby: Lay your baby on their back on the changing mat or surface. It will save you work if you have a changing mat towel to place under your baby when changing a nappy as this can be easily cleaned in case of leaks as well as being a warmer and cosier surface for your baby to lie on! If your baby is very young, you may want to use a safety strap to keep them secure. For safety reasons never leave your baby unattended while changing a nappy even if only for a second! The only time you can take your attention off a baby while changing a nappy would be only if you are changing your baby on a changing mat that is on the floor and even then if only for a quick moment!
  3. Remove the dirty nappy: Open the tabs on the dirty nappy and gently lift your baby’s legs by the ankles. Use the front of the nappy to wipe away any excess poop or pee. Then, carefully slide the dirty nappy out from under your baby, and fold it up and set it aside.
  4. Clean your baby: Use baby wipes to gently clean your baby’s bottom, making sure to wipe from front to back for girls to avoid spreading bacteria. Lift your baby’s legs as needed to clean in all the folds and creases. When my babies nappy rash used to flare up I found that it really helped to apply a layer of Vaseline (petroleum jelly) on to the baby wipes before using them to clean my baby’s bottom as the Vaseline made the baby wipes even softer and less abrasive this was particularly helpful as as nappy rash, when flared up, can be really sore so you need to be as gentle as possible so as not to cause further pain or discomfort. Also, I used to find for a soiled nappy that the layer of Vaseline used to help catch the poop and clean it off more efficiently.
  5. Apply diaper rash cream: If your baby has a rash or irritated skin, apply a thin layer of diaper rash cream to the affected area. When my two babies had nappy rash I would put a generous layer of Vaseline over the nappy rash cream/Sudocream. This seemed to really help as it acts as an extra moisture barrier.
  6. Put on the clean nappy: Open the clean nappy and slide it under your baby’s bottom. Make sure the waistband is snug but not too tight, and fasten the tabs securely. If your baby is a boy, make sure his penis is pointing downwards to avoid leaks. Also if your baby is a boy it can be handy to keep an open spare nappy held loosely over his penis during nappy changing time in case he sprays!
  7. Clean up and dispose of the dirty nappy: Fold up the dirty nappy and fasten the tabs to keep any mess contained. Place the dirty nappy in a nappy bin or nappy bag for disposal.

With a little practice, changing a nappy becomes second nature, you’ll be able to do it quickly and efficiently. Nappy changing time is another opportunity for you to bond with your baby so use this time to chat, sing nursery rhymes and coo to them! Remember that It’s important to change your baby’s nappy frequently to keep them clean, dry, and comfortable.

BABY CHANGING BAG:

In order for you to change your baby’s nappy while out and about you will need a baby changing bag so that you will have everything to hand, that you need to change your baby’s nappy, with you at all times

A baby changing bag, also known as a diaper bag, is a specially designed bag that is used to carry all the essential items needed for changing a baby while on the go. It is designed to be spacious, with multiple compartments and pockets to hold diapers, wipes, changing pads, creams, and other items.

Baby changing bags may also have insulated pockets to keep bottles warm or cool, and may include space for personal items such as keys, phone, or wallet. They are usually made from durable and easy-to-clean materials such as nylon or polyester, and may come in various designs, colours, and sizes to suit different preferences.

The bag is designed to be carried over the shoulder or on the back, with comfortable straps or handles for easy transportation. Many baby changing bags are also equipped with stroller clips or hooks to attach the bag to a stroller, making it easy to access and freeing up hands.

Overall, a baby changing bag is an essential item for parents who are frequently on the go with their baby, allowing them to stay organized and prepared for any diaper changing needs that may arise.

Choosing a baby changing bag can be overwhelming, and it can be a struggle to choose the right one so I have listed some factors to consider when selecting the right one for you:

  1. Size: Consider the size of the bag that you will need based on your lifestyle and daily routine. A larger bag may be necessary if you are out for longer periods or need to carry more items, while a smaller bag may be sufficient for shorter trips.
  2. Compartments: Look for a bag with multiple compartments and pockets to keep items organized and easily accessible. Consider what items you will need to carry and ensure there is enough space for everything. A changing bag is specifically designed to carry everything you need when you’re out with your baby, such as diapers, wipes, extra clothes, bottles, and toys. This can help you avoid searching through a cluttered bag to find what you need and having all of these essentials in one place can make it more convenient for you to take care of your baby’s needs while you’re on the go.
  3. Durability: A good changing bag should be made from high quality durable materials, preferably water resistant and can withstand wear and tear. Look for bags made from high-quality sturdy materials which makes them more durable than regular bags. This means that they can withstand the wear and tear of daily use, and can last for a long time.
  4. Comfort: Choose a bag with comfortable straps or handles for easy carrying. Consider the weight of the bag and how it will feel when fully loaded. Good baby changing bags are designed with comfortable shoulder straps, which distribute the weight of the bag evenly across your shoulders. This can reduce the strain on your back and make it more comfortable for you to carry the bag for extended periods. Try to find one that can be attached to your pram or buggy so that you can keep your hands and arms free when out and about with your baby.
  5. Style: Many baby changing bags are designed to be stylish and fashionable, so you can carry them with you wherever you go and still look good. Some brands offer a wide range of styles, designs and colours, allowing you to choose one that suits your personal style.
  6. Extras: Consider any extra features you may need, such as stroller clips or an insulated pocket for bottles. Most baby changing bags come with changing mats but make certain yours does as you will need this when changing your baby on the go!
  7. Budget: Baby changing bags come at various price points. Decide on your budget and look for bags within that range that meet your needs.

Overall, choose a baby changing bag that is functional, durable, and meets your personal preferences and needs.

There are so many different baby changing bags to choose from in shops and on line. You could also check out the ones available on our website that are made from a very durable water-repellent and sustainable material.

I have listed a few details about our baby changing bags for you to read about in case you are considering making one of them your choice;

They are wonderfully practical baby changing bags with loads of different compartments so that everything can be well organised in individual pockets making things easier to find – take the stress out of nappy changing when out and about!

They also have a special insulated pocket for your baby’s bottle or your thermos flask helping to keep it warm or cold.

These baby changing bags are the perfect baby changing bags for prams as they can be attached to the baby stroller so you can keep your hands free!

BABY CHANGING BAGS

These gorgeous baby changing bags are also the perfect eco-friendly baby product as these baby bags are made from PET – a sustainable, water-repellent, material that is very strong yet lightweight! PET is an environmentally friendly material that is recognised by health authorities around the world and is100% recyclable helping to reduce our plastic footprint!

Available in three different gorgeous prints each with a matching baby changing mat.

LUXURIOUSLY SOFT BABY PRODUCTS -Why baby products need to be luxuriously soft!

Organic Cotton Pompom Baby Blanket

When it comes to baby products, softness is key for a comfortable and cosy experience and luxuriously soft baby products are the best choice.

Choosing the right materials for luxuriously soft baby products or any type of clothing for infants is important in order to keep them comfortable and safe. To make sure you buy or gift luxuriously soft baby products always opt for products that are made from soft, breathable materials that are free from harmful chemicals or irritants, to ensure minimal risk of irritation for your baby’s sensitive skin. Be sure to check the labels for materials and washing instructions. Remember to wash all new clothes before using them for the first time to remove any residual chemicals or irritants.

For baby products to be classed as being ‘luxuriously soft’ they should be made from a high-quality material.

Here are some materials that are suitable for luxuriously soft baby products, newborn clothes or when choosing a newborn first outfit or a product as a newbaby gift :

  1. Cotton: Cotton is soft, breathable, and easy to care for, making it a popular choice for baby clothes. It is also hypoallergenic, which is important for newborns with sensitive skin.
  2. Organic cotton: Organic cotton is grown without the use of harmful chemicals, making it an even safer and more sustainable choice for baby clothes. Organic cotton is a soft and natural material that is perfect for a babies sensitive skin.
  3. Muslin: Muslin is a lightweight, breathable fabric that is gentle on a baby’s delicate skin. Muslin swaddles are perfect for wrapping up your baby for sleep or snuggle time.
  4. Bamboo: Bamboo fabric is naturally soft, moisture-wicking, and hypoallergenic, making it ideal for newborns.
  5. Wool: Wool is a natural insulator and can help regulate a baby’s body temperature. It is also soft and durable, making it a great choice for baby clothes.
  6. Linen: Linen is a lightweight and breathable fabric that is ideal for warmer weather. It is also hypoallergenic and easy to care for.

Muslin Swaddle Blankets one of the many luxuriously soft baby products found in some of our baby hampers!

Remember to always check the materials and quality of any baby product before purchasing, and consult with your Pediatrician if you have any concerns about your baby’s skin sensitivity or allergies.

Another reason to make sure that you buy or gift luxuriously soft baby products is that It is important to bear in mind that baby clothes and any baby item that comes into contact with your baby’s skin  should be made from a breathable fabric preferably made from 100% organic cotton that’s free from chemicals with minimal risk of irritation for your baby’s sensitive skin. If you are looking for luxuriously soft baby products that adheres to this criteria you could check out the baby products available on our website as we have a beautiful selection of luxuriously soft baby products to choose from that are mostly made from GOTS certified 100% Organic Cotton. With the GOTS certification you can rest assured that you are buying the very best for your baby.

What is GOTS?

GOTS stands for Global Organic Textile Standard, with the GOTS certification signifying environmental and social responsibility throughout the chain, from cultivation, preparation and production to the finished product.

The GOTS label shows that the product is made from organically grown raw materials, free from pesticides and only using cotton from certified organic cotton growers who get paid fairly.

The GOTS certification shows that the products are completely free of harmful substances and when dyeing the products, the colours do not contain any toxins that are harmful to humans or the environment.

For a GOTS certification, there are strict regulations with regards to the working environment and social rights for those who work in the various stages of the manufacturing process. A GOTS certification ensures that workers are of adult age, work under good working conditions, are paid fairly, have development opportunities regardless of gender and are allowed freely express their opinions.

Ultimately the GOTS brand is a quality stamp and the end result are organic products of the highest quality that have not been in contact with harmful chemicals and are therefore  just as kind to children’s skin as they are to the environment.

A newborn baby’s skin is extra sensitive as it is still developing and it is much thinner and more sensitive than an adults so it will need extra care as they adapt to the new world around them. Sometimes a newborn baby’s skin can be prone to skin irritations and dryness so the type of material you choose for your baby’s products is very important as you will want to make sure that it doesn’t cause further irritation to your baby’s skin so choosing luxuriously soft baby products will help to protect your baby.

Babies have delicate and sensitive skin that requires extra attention and care.

LUXURIOUSLY SOFT BABY PRODUCTS

When using products for your baby’s skin:

  1. Use gentle, fragrance-free products: Look for baby products that are specifically formulated for sensitive skin, and avoid products that contain fragrances or other potential irritants.
  2. Be mindful of bath time: Keep bath time short and use lukewarm water. Use a mild, fragrance-free soap or cleanser, and avoid using any products that contain alcohol, which can dry out the skin.
  3. Be mindful of laundry: Wash your baby’s clothes, bedding, and towels in a gentle, fragrance-free detergent. Avoid using fabric softeners, which can irritate sensitive skin.
  4. Keep your baby moisturized: Use a fragrance-free moisturizer on your baby’s skin after bath time or as needed to keep their skin soft and hydrated.
  5. Protect your baby from the sun: Keep your baby out of direct sunlight and use a mineral-based sunscreen that is formulated for sensitive skin if they must be outside.
  6. Watch for signs of irritation: Pay attention to any changes in your baby’s skin, such as redness, dryness, or rashes. Consult with your Paediatrician if you have any concerns or notice any changes in your baby’s skin.

Remember, every baby is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Be patient and persistent in finding the right products and routines that work best for your baby’s sensitive skin.

Ultimately baby products need to be luxuriously soft so that they can provide a gentle and comfortable experience for babies along with the fact that the extra softness of the fabric can help prevent skin irritation, which is especially important as babies have very delicate skin.

Additionally, luxuriously soft baby products are often made with high-quality materials, which can be more durable and long-lasting than cheaper materials. This means that they can withstand frequent washing and use, which is important for parents who want to invest in products that will last.

LUXURIOUSLY SOFT BABY PRODUCTS

Overall, using luxuriously soft baby products can be a way for parents to provide their babies with a sense of comfort and security. Soft blankets, swaddles, and clothing can help babies feel safe and snuggled, which can promote better sleep and a sense of well-being.

Finally, while luxuriously soft baby products might be a little more expensive than other options, they can provide a range of benefits for both babies and parents, including comfort, durability, and peace of mind.

Some of the gorgeous luxuriously soft baby products available on barefoot giraffe!

BIBS WITH SLEEVES & Weaning Tips!

Bibs with sleeves are a type of bib that offers extra protection for a baby’s clothing during feeding time. They typically have long sleeves that cover the arms and are made of a waterproof or water-resistant material to prevent spills and messes from soaking through to the clothes underneath. Some bibs with sleeves also have a pocket at the bottom to help catch some of the dropped food.

Bibs with sleeves can be especially useful when introducing solid foods to babies who are learning to self-feed, as it can be a messy process. Bibs with sleeves are also great for protecting clothes during messy art activities or outdoor playtime!

BIBS WITH SLEEVES

There are many different brands and styles of bibs with sleeves available on the market, ranging from simple designs to more elaborate ones with cute patterns and designs. When selecting a bib with sleeves, it’s important to ensure that it fits well and is comfortable for the baby to wear. We have some lovely options of bibs with sleeves available on our website along with some lovely bibs with no sleeves that are available in our luxury baby hampers!

WEANING TIPS!

BIBS WITH SLEEVES

What does Weaning mean?

“Weaning” refers to the process of gradually introducing a baby to solid foods and reducing their reliance on breast milk or formula as their primary source of nutrition. It is a gradual process that typically starts when the baby is around 6 months old, although the exact timing can vary depending on the baby’s individual needs and development.

During the weaning process, parents or caregivers may introduce soft or mashed foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and cereal, alongside breast milk or formula. Over time, the baby will consume less milk and more solid foods until they are eating a variety of nutritious foods as their main source of sustenance.

It is important to consult with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for guidance on when and how to start weaning, as well as which foods to introduce and how to ensure the baby is getting all of the necessary nutrients for healthy growth and development.

BIBS WITH SLEEVES

Weaning a baby onto solid food can be an exciting but sometimes challenging process for both the baby and the parents.

Here are some tips to help make the transition as smooth as possible:

  1. Introduce one food at a time: Start by offering one new food at a time, waiting a few days before introducing another food. This allows you to monitor any possible reactions or allergies.
  2. Start with pureed foods: Begin with smooth and pureed foods such as mashed banana, sweet potato, or avocado. You can also mix breast milk or formula with the pureed food to make it more familiar and easier for the baby to accept.
  3. Gradually increase textures: Once your baby is comfortable with pureed foods, you can gradually increase the texture by introducing mashed, minced or finely chopped foods.
  4. Offer a variety of foods: Offer a variety of foods from each food group (fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins, and dairy) to ensure your baby is getting all the necessary nutrients.
  5. Let your baby explore: Encourage your baby to explore the texture, taste, and smell of the food. Offer finger foods, such as soft cooked vegetables or fruits, to encourage self-feeding.
  6. Be patient: It’s normal for babies to take time to adjust to new foods and textures. Some babies take longer to accept solid foods so don’t force them to eat or finish their meal. Allow them to take breaks or stop eating when they indicate they are full.
  7. Consult with your Pediatrician: Consult with your Pediatrician for any concerns or questions you may have about your baby’s nutrition or feeding habits.
  8. Prepare for the extra mess: your baby will love to get involved, get messy and play with these new and exciting foods and be prepared for more to end up on the floor than in your babys tummy! You can purchase a feeding mat for under your baby’s high chair to catch some of the spills or you can use a sheet that you already have which you can put through the wash after use and also its one less thing to buy! A bib with sleeves will help protect your baby’s clothes during this new adventurous stage! A bib with sleeves that also has a large front pocket to collect spills will further help!

Weaning a fussy baby can be a challenging task, but here are some tips to make it easier:

  1. Start with familiar foods: Start with pureed versions of foods that your baby has already tasted in breast milk or formula. This will make the transition to solid foods smoother and less intimidating.
  2. Offer small portions: Offer small portions of food to avoid overwhelming your baby. Gradually increase the amount as your baby becomes more comfortable with the food.
  3. Make mealtime fun: Make mealtime a fun and interactive experience by singing songs, making silly faces, or playing games. This will help to distract your fussy baby and make the process more enjoyable.
  4. Involve your baby in the process: Allow your baby to touch, smell, and taste the food. Offer finger foods that your baby can pick up and self-feed, which will help to increase their interest in eating.
  5. Be flexible: It’s okay if your baby doesn’t finish their meal or if they refuse to eat a certain food. Keep trying and offer the food again at another time.
  6. Consult with your Pediatrician: Always consult with your Pediatrician if you are worried or concerned about your baby’s eating habits or nutrition.

Personal weening tips that worked for me!:

It is important to remember that babies have taste buds just like us! So we need to consider if we like it before giving it to our baby! If you don’t like the taste and texture of something it is unlikely that your baby will like the taste or texture! If you start off by making sure that the new food is tasty and interesting with plenty of variety you’ll have half the battle won!

Of course there is a time and a place when every mother will need to depend on jar or processed baby food (when travelling or just generally rushing out and about or when you are having a particularly busy day etc.) and there are some excellent options available and some of them really taste lovely, especially the breakfast options but when possible with my two babies especially for their main meal of the day I tried to make fresh food and vegetables with really good flavour!

At the very beginning when weaning my two babies, when it came to their dinner I blended everything in together but as time went on I separated the vegetables from the main part of the meal as I wanted them to get used to different vegetables and start looking at having vegetables with every meal as being a normal occurrence and it worked! My two grew up eating everything and still do! Along with this though, even after I separated the vegetables on the plate I also used to hide a lot of extra vegetables in the main part of the dish such as in a spaghetti bolognaise sauce or chicken casserole.

Another good tip is when starting out the weaning process your baby’s portion sizes will be quite small but you can still make a big batch of bolognaise or stew for the rest of the family and set aside a few portions to blend and then freeze in ice-cube containers and then you can just take out a few cubes for your baby’s meal at a time. (As your baby grows along with his appetite you will need to switch to using bigger freezer containers!) That way you can still get a lot of flavour into the main dish of your baby’s meal, onions, garlic, thyme etc can all be added in as you will need to make it not only tasty for your baby but also delicious enough for the rest of the family to enjoy the unblended version!

A few safety tips that are fairly basic but I said I’d list them just be be extra cautious:

Never give your baby any food that could potentially lead to your baby choking – you need to be especially careful with some food items that have no ‘give’ in them should they get stuck while your baby is trying to swallow – for this reason never give your baby a sausage, a potato chip or grape to suck on or basically anything that could potentially get stuck even a large piece of apple!

With that in mind, always make sure that anything you give him is cut into small enough pieces so if he swallows it while sucking it, it can easily be swallowed. Always err on the side of caution!

Never leave your baby unattended while eating.

Don’t leave any foods that your baby could choke on within reach of your baby as when they start being able to crawl or walk and explore, everything they find along the way will end up in their mouth!

If your baby has older siblings make sure that they understand never to leave any foods within reach or give the baby any foods that your baby could potentially choke on.

Don’t worry too much about weaning your baby you’ll get there! Try to remember that every baby is different and some may take longer to adjust to solid foods than others. Keep offering a variety of healthy foods and be patient as your baby learns to enjoy new flavours and textures.

There are hundreds of different types of bibs out there, bibs with sleeves, bibs with no sleeves, plastic bibs etc. so you should easily find the right type for your baby. A baby bib with sleeves is a great choice for protecting your baby’s clothes at meal time especially if feeding while out & about or just before going out so you don’t have to run up and change your baby again (its difficult enough to get out the door on time!)

We have some beautiful baby bibs with sleeves available on our website that are made with an organic cotton material that has been treated with an acrylic coating making it dirt and water repellent. This allows you to easily wipe the bib off with a damp cloth after a meal or to rinse it under the tap.

These organic cotton baby bib with sleeves also have a large front pocket that helps collect any spills making them perfect for both feeding time and creative play!

Beautiful ‘Summerville Organic’ organic cotton bibs with sleeves:

BABY COMFORTERS – When is it safe for your baby to sleep with a baby comforter in his cot?

Baby Comforter
Cute snake shaped cot protector & organic cotton baby comforter

It is recommended for safety reasons that you do not place anything, including a baby comforter in your baby’s cot until he or she is 7 months old. However, you can start introducing a baby comforter in a variety of safe and supervised ways long before then.

At around 7 months your baby will begin to experience separation anxiety and at this stage a baby comforter (it might be handy to get 2 of the same!) is the perfect tool to introduce to his bedtime routine so that if your baby wakes up during the night it will help your baby to have a comforter in his cot to help him to self-soothe and go back to sleep on his own.

Being able to self-soothe (when your baby can calm himself down and go back to sleep on his own!) is an important part of your baby’s development. Babies that can self-soothe will be able to sleep for longer periods. Learning the skill to self-soothe at this time is imperative to your baby sleeping through the night because if your baby can learn to self-soothe then he won’t need to cry for you every time he wakes up during the night so your baby (and you!) will get the benefit of a full nights sleep!

Bear in mind though, that it is far more likely that your baby will be able to self-soothe with a baby comforter that he has already formed an attachment to, as opposed to attempting to try to introduce a completely new comforter at this crucial time. Which is why it is a good idea to start introducing a baby comforter before then.

When is it safe for your baby to sleep with a baby comforter in his cot?
Organic cotton baby comforter

HOW TO HELP YOUR BABY FORM AN ATTACHMENT TO A PARTICULAR BABY COMFORTER:

You can sleep with the baby comforter for a few nights so that it takes on your scent. It is a good idea to get two of the same type to do this! (If you want to introduce a baby comforter for the first time after your baby is 6/7 months old or happen to get a new one as a gift for your baby at any stage this suggestion of you sleeping with it in order for it to take on your scent, would still help your baby form an attachment to it quicker than just giving it directly to your baby.)

While feeding your baby you can hold the comforter in between your baby and your body so that it becomes a familiar presence during this cosy mom feeding/bonding time thereby encouraging the association of feeling safe, warm and secure during feeding time along with the added bonus of the comforter taking on the familiar comforting scent associated with this close and loving feeding time.

You can introduce the baby comforter during supervised daytime play and tummy time by placing it on a playmat for babies during playtime so that your baby becomes used to having it near him during play time.

You can also place the comforter in the car seat with your baby and in his buggy so that it becomes a familiar and comforting presence when he is out and about.

If you get one with tags or knots attached with a cute animal face it can keep him busy and entertained in a load of different situations; changing his nappy, waiting for a doctor’s appointment, or waiting to collect an older sibling from an after school activity and many more.

A baby comforter is also a very useful tool to use as part of your baby’s bedtime routine as tucking a familiar one in with your baby at night in his cot at will help him associate this as being his time to settle down and fall asleep. Fingers crossed!

There are so many available so it is important that you make certain that the baby comforter that you choose for your baby or as a gift for a newborn doesn’t have any parts that could potentially be pulled off and end up in his mouth and that it is made from a non-toxic material ensuring that it is safe for chewing on!

You will also find some beautiful ones on our website, most of which are GOTS certified ensuring that they are made from an organic non-toxic material. Some of which even have the added benefit of being able to attach a pacifier if you wish, so that when your baby wakes up during the night looking for his pacifier it will be much easier for him to find it by himself in his cot so that he can go back to sleep without having to call you each time to replace it for him to help him to go back to sleep!

If you wish you can also check out the different selection of baby comforters that are available in our luxury hampers and gift sets for babies!

BABY PLAYMATS – Do you need a baby playmat?

BABY PLAYMATS

Baby Playmats are technically not needed. However, you will find one very useful for so many reasons! Here are a few:

YOU CAN USE IT FROM DAY ONE:!

Even though babies don’t usually start to use a baby playmat until they are around 3 months old (when they start spending time on their tummies!) you can actually start using your baby playmat straight away as you will find it so handy to have a safe and comfy space to place your baby on the ground if you have to answer the phone or door or to make a quick meal. You could also place your baby playmat on the bathroom floor for your baby to have a safe and cosy space to lie on while you take a really quick shower! (You will find it hard to believe before having a baby but being able to grab a quick shower will actually become a luxury during the first few weeks!)

PROVIDES A FAMILIAR PORTABLE PLAY SPACE:

Even though baby gyms are also super one of the big differences between a baby gym and a baby playmat is that unlike a baby gym, a baby playmat can easily be rolled or folded up and brought with you on holidays or when out and about for your baby to use (perhaps when meeting a friend for coffee or in your doctor’s waiting room.) You can easily transport it with you on a weekend away or on holidays and it will be comforting for you and your baby to have a familiar safe place for your baby to stretch out for some floor time while away from home in a strange environment.

BABY PLAYMATS HELP WITH YOUR BABY’S DEVELOPMENT:

Baby playmats are perfect for tummy time which helps babies strengthen their neck and shoulder muscles thereby helping to develop the muscles they need to lift their heads and also this is the stage where your baby is developing hand-eye co-ordination so an exciting playmat with different textures and different things to play with and grab onto will hugely benefit your baby at this stage of their development.

Baby playmats help develop your baby’s hand-eye co-ordination along with their motor and visual skills.

Baby playmats also helps with their reaching and grasping skills

BABY PLAYMATS WILL HELP KEEP YOUR BABY ENTERTAINED:

As your baby will love to start exploring at this stage a baby playmat with a variety of visuals, sounds and textures will give your baby plenty to do while you grab a well earned cup of tea or coffee (while you can see your baby of course!)

Gorgeous organic cotton baby playmats with loads of play functions!

WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN CHOOSING A BABY PLAYMAT:

It should be well padded.

The baby playmat should be brimming with fun activities and different textured features to help keep your baby entertained for as long as possible.

It should be made from a safe material, preferably organic cotton that is completely free of harmful substances ensuring that the colours of the dyes used when making it do not contain any toxins that are harmful to babies.

Try to choose one that will look gorgeous as a rug in your child’s nursery/bedroom long after they have outgrown it!

There are loads of beautiful baby playmats available to buy or you could check out the ones available on our website:

BABY PLAYMATS
Panda organic cotton baby playmat with different ecological materials!

These gorgeous Panda and Rabbit Playmats are made of the highest quality organic cotton that have not been in contact with any harmful chemicals and have loads of different textures and fun features for your baby to play with.

They will provide a safe play space for babies to enhance their hand-eye co-ordination and motor skills while giving support for tummy time which helps strengthen your baby’s neck and shoulder muscles.

Long after your baby has outgrown one of these baby playmats they would still look beautiful in your baby’s playroom or nursery for years

Rabbit organic cotton baby playmat

ORGANIC COTTON BABY CLOTHES – Is Organic Cotton better for babies?

Baby clothes - organic cotton

Are organic cotton baby clothes really better for babies than baby clothes made from different materials? There is so much talk about ‘organic cotton’ particularly for baby products but before deciding if they are better what does organic cotton even mean?

The term Organic cotton is a cotton that has been grown and manufactured without the use of any harmful chemicals, pesticides or toxins making it just as kind to the environment as to a baby’s delicate skin. So organic cotton baby clothes would be considered a very good option for babies delicate skin. This is particularly important when it comes to a newborn baby’s skin.

A newborn baby’s skin is extra sensitive as it is still developing and it is much thinner and more sensitive than an adults so it will need extra care as they adapt to the new world around them. Sometimes a newborn baby’s skin can be prone to skin irritations and dryness so the type of material you choose for your baby products is very important as you will want to make sure that it doesn’t cause further irritation to your baby’s skin so I do feel that organic cotton baby clothes and products would, especially for a newborn baby, be better than baby clothes or baby products made from a different type of material.

Baby clothes

It is also important to remember that even when your baby grows out of the ‘newborn baby stage’ your baby, then toddler and finally child’s skin can still be prone to dryness, skin irritations and in some cases even eczema (I have inserted a link to the HSC webpage on Eczema for your information if you wish to find out more about eczema in babies and children. )

For this reason the type of material used to make any of your child’s clothing should be made from a soft, breathable, preferably organic cotton so choosing organic cotton baby clothes or organic cotton children’s clothes will be hugely beneficial during all stages of your child’s development not to mention the sustainability factor of organic cotton baby clothes so you can enjoy the added bonus of knowing that you are also helping the environment while protecting your baby’s delicate skin!

There are so many lovely organic cotton baby clothes available to choose from out there or you could have a look at some of the gorgeous organic cotton baby clothes and organic cotton baby products that are available on barefootgiraffe either in one of our luxury baby hampers, gift sets or individual items or gifts.

It might be good to know that as most of our organic cotton baby clothes and products are GOTS certified you can be reassured that they are also eco friendly baby products and ethically sourced baby products.

Here are some of my favourites:

BABY SLEEPING BAGS – should you use them?

BABY SLEEPING BAGS!

A Baby sleeping bag

A baby sleeping bag is basically a wearable blanket that is designed to stay on your baby during the night – no matter how much they may toss and turn!- keeping them cosy and snug all through the night – which will lead naturally to them staying asleep for longer!

You may have chosen to use a swaddle blanket for your baby’s first few weeks but at around 8 weeks or when they first start to show signs of rolling over it is important to transition away from swaddling your baby and at that time a baby sleeping bag is an option that a lot of parents embrace for this next stage.

BENEFITS OF USING A BABY SLEEPING BAG:

Beautiful Organic Cotton Unicorn

Beautiful Organic Cotton Unicorn bumper snake pillow!

When you use a baby sleeping bag every night for your baby it can become part of a really positive sleep routine – making their bedtime routine a cosy and happy warm safe place.

Due to the positive sleep association around your baby sleeping bags using one for your baby can make sleeping away from home much easier – great for travelling or holidays!

A baby sleeping bag will help your baby stay asleep for longer as they can’t kick it off like they might other cot blankets which would cause them to wake with the change in temperature during the night – and of course if your baby stays asleep longer then you get to sleep for longer too and everyone is aware of the benefit of a good nights sleep – every bit of sleep you can get too is precious!

WHAT SIZE SHOULD YOU CHOOSE:

There are different size baby sleeping bags available for babies and even though there are baby sleeping bags available for babies that are younger than 3 months personally, if it were my own baby I wouldn’t choose to use a baby sleeping bag until my baby was a little older as babies can burrow down inside them if they don’t fit perfectly.

However, no matter what age you start using a baby sleeping bag for your baby you should always make sure that the baby sleeping bag fits well around their shoulders so that their head doesn’t run the risk of slipping down into the sleeping bag. All all the baby sleeping bags available on barefoot giraffe are size 3-12 months minimum weight 6kg (13lbs)

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Baby sleeping bag
Interchangeable long or short sleeves!

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT TOG:

The tog you choose for your baby’s sleeping bag should also be considered as it is very important to keep your baby at a regular temperature (I am including a link to the HSC website on SIDS with regard to your baby’s sleep temperature for your information.)

To help keep your baby from getting too warm or too cold you can get baby sleeping bags with different togs for different times of the year so that your baby doesn’t overheat during the warmer summer nights yet can enjoy being extra warm and cosy on chilly nights! A 2.5 tog is very popular and will work well for most of the year but you might also find it very handy to have a 0.5 to 1.5 tog sleeping bags for warmer especially as our Summers seem to be getting warmer!

DIFFERENT TYPES OF BABY SLEEPING BAGS AVAILABLE ON BAREFOOT GIRAFFE:

There are 2 different types of beautiful baby sleeping bags on our website with 2 gorgeous prints of each type to choose from; (both types are a Bell shaped design with generous space for healthy hip development.)

One type is made from a GOTS certified organic cotton, with a lighter 0.5 tog – perfect for warmer months or a warm house as it’s breathable cotton mesh for optimal ventilation will help keep your baby cool and comfortable.

The other is a convertible baby sleeping bag with interchangeable long or short sleeves in a heavier 2.5 tog made of soft cotton outer jersey and quilted all-natural cotton lining for better temperature regulation and a more restful sleep.

Soft and gorgeous 2.5 tog convertible baby sleeping bags

TRAVEL BABY SLEEPING BAGS:

Something a little bit different:- a TRAVEL baby sleeping bag!

Barefootgiraffe.ie also has another type of baby sleeping bag you might like that is quite unique!-

Beautiful soft and cosy travel’ baby sleeping bags made from 100% organic cotton are perfect for transporting your baby.  

Thanks to the multifunctional openings at the back, these travel baby sleeping bags fit in almost all prams, buggies, carrycots and car seats.

So that you can keep your baby extra warm and snug when out in the car, buggy or when you are bringing your baby from the car seat to the house or even a supermarket!.  These travel baby sleeping bags will prove especially useful in colder weather!

2 beautiful colours to choose from:

NEWBORN SWADDLE SETS – should you buy a swaddle blanket?

FIRSTLY, WHAT ARE NEWBORN SWADDLE SETS?

Newborn Swaddle Sets include a swaddle blanket which is a baby blanket that is used for swaddling your newborn baby. 

Usually made of stretchy fabric that when swaddled snugly around your baby recreates the security and comfort of the womb but also should be stretchy enough to allow plenty of room for your baby’s legs to move freely. 

Or they can be made with natural, breathable fibers such as a cotton muslin preferably 100% organic.

We have both types available on barefoot giraffe!

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO ‘SWADDLE YOUR BABY’?

Swaddling is an age-old practice of wrapping babies snugly with a blanket which is known to have a soothing and calming effect on newborns as it helps them settle down to sleep and also helps keep them asleep longer as it helps prevent babies waking themselves up with their natural startle reflex. So there is less chance of your baby’s sudden flailing arms movement from disturbing your baby’s precious sleep.

Swaddle blankets are usually only used to fully swaddle your baby during the first few weeks of your baby’s life, approximately 8 weeks but it can vary so it is very important to stop swaddling your baby at the very first sign of your baby attempting to start to roll over.

ADDITIONAL USES FOR YOUR NEWBORN SWADDLE SET:

You may think there is no point in getting a newborn swaddle set for the sake of such a short period of time but don’t worry about not being able to use your swaddle blanket or newborn swaddle set when your baby reaches this exciting new stage as the swaddle blanket has so many other uses other than just swaddling . Here are a few of my suggestions:

  • Light baby blanket – It’s  so handy to have a light little baby blanket to hand when out and about for use in the car, buggy or for when you take your baby shopping (especially anywhere near the fridge/freezer section of a supermarket it can get really cold very quickly which is quite a sudden temperature change for them especially if your baby, like so many do, loves to have his or her little feet exposed.)
  • Baby Burp/Wind cloth – sometimes you will need to have the extra protection of a slightly larger burp cloth to wind your baby especially if you are dressed up for a special event – like perhaps their Christening – your newborn swaddle set will come in so handy for such an occasion! 
  • Baby changing mat towel – it’s always good to have a spare blanket to use as a changing mat towel especially if you have no choice but to change your baby where there is no changing table available, and you must change your baby on the floor you’ll be grateful for the extra layer of protection under your baby.
  • Baby comfort blanket – If it is a particularly soft and cute one (like our stretchy little animal print newborn swaddle sets!) they might become your baby’s favourite snuggle comfort blanket especially when they will be so familiar with it having been swaddled in it for the first few weeks of their lives!

PLENTY NEWBORN SWADDLE SETS TO CHOOSE FROM!

There are so many gorgeous newborn swaddle sets available to purchase on-line or we have 2 beautiful types of newborn swaddle sets available on barefootgiraffe.ie that you could buy for your own baby or as a beautiful gift for a newborn with plenty different options of each type to choose from;

Gorgeous animal print newborn swaddle sets – a super stretchy and super cute animal swaddle blanket with a matching beanie hat available in giraffe, zebra, lion or elephant! Perfect newborn swaddle sets for a baby shower gift as their colour scheme is so neutral so would make a divine and really unique gift for a newborn baby girl or gift for a newborn baby boy.

or a beautiful 2-pack box set of 100% organic cotton breathable and absorbent multifunctional muslin swaddle blankets which are available in some of our luxurious baby hampers are really beautiful newborn swaddle sets.

Both types of our newborn swaddle sets would be perfect for a baby shower gift as their their neutral colour scheme makes them an ideal baby gift for a newborn baby girl or gift for a newborn baby boy.

Keep your baby feeling safe and secure with one of our gorgeous newborn swaddle sets!

BABY ROBES

BABY ROBES – Hooded towel or baby robe? There are divine hooded towels for babies and baby robes available on loads of websites (here are a few examples of the ones available on barefootgiraffe.ie) from newborn stage to older and when to use either or both is really up to the individual mom’s preference.

When my babies were very small I preferred to use a soft and cosy hooded towel or a wrap to snuggle them in after their baby bath or after their first mommy and baby swim classes but as they became a little older and became aware of their surroundings and started noticing things they loved when I made a big fuss of making them feel ‘cosy’ and ‘special’ by snuggling them up in their cute baby robes! They absolutely adored them!

A baby robe or a baby bathrobe is such a gorgeous item for a toddler to have, particularly at the beach (especially in cooler climates – like a typical beach day in Ireland!) Even though the summers are getting warmer the sea can still be quite cold so after a swim a baby robe is super! My two loved when they were changed out of their wet swim gear to have a gorgeous soft cute baby robe to snuggle in while eating their picnic. Baby robes are also very handy if the weather changes and becomes a little cooler but you want to stay a little longer on the beach (perhaps to finish your picnic!) they can wear them over their dry clothes to be extra warm and cosy especially when they can put up a hood to block any wind or chills or if it rains suddenly while you make a mad dash to the car!

If you have a toddler and a small baby to change at a swimming pool it is very handy to be able to wrap your toddler quickly in a baby robe that ties up to the neck so that it can’t slip off onto the ground like a towel might, keeping your toddler from catching a chill while waiting for you to change their baby sibling first!

The baby robes or baby bathrobes on our website have a push button at the top to help prevent if from falling off and what’s extra handy about them is that the belt is attached to the back so that it can’t fall off onto the wet changing room floor or end up being dragged along the ground which your toddler or someone else could potentially trip on.

They are really beautiful baby robes in soft terry made from 100% Organic Cotton, perfect to snuggle in after a bath or at the beach.

These soft and gorgeous baby robes with cute rabbit ears are GOTS certified, making sure you have chosen the best for your baby.

They come in 3 different gorgeous colours to choose from and are available in the size;- 18-24 months so would make an ideal first birthday or christening gift!

A really beautiful piece of clothing for infants that is also sustainable making it the perfect luxury baby gift!

Sustainable Baby Gifts. Should you spend a little bit extra to ensure your baby gifts are sustainable?

These days finding just the right sustainable baby gifts to congratulate a loved one on their new arrival can be challenging as there are so many factors to consider.

Ultimately the most important thing for me when buying a new baby gift is that it looks beautiful, original, luxurious, soft & cosy first and then if it also happens to be sustainable, like one of our sleepy snake cot bumpers I would consider it to be an added bonus.

Unfortunately, a lot of the eco-friendly baby clothes available are not very colourful which is why very often when you think about baby items that are sustainable you might imagine items that although they are sustainable may not look aesthetically beautiful, Personally I wouldn’t choose one of these as a baby gift as I want the person receiving the baby gift to gasp with delight when they first set eyes on it – check out our gorgeous organic cotton baby blankets or one of our stunning baby gift sets as possible beautiful sustainable baby gifts.

However, if I can find a sustainable baby product that also looks divine like one of our baby gift hampers I wouldn’t mind paying a little extra for it because I think that along with everyone else these days, I am becoming more conscious of helping reduce my impact on the environment and as a parent I couldn’t bare to think that I am in any way supporting an industry by buying a product that has even the slightest possibility of being made using child labour.

With the baby products and gifts available on the barefoot giraffe website the products are not only all visually beautiful and unique but also most of them are GOTS certified which means they are sustainable.

The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) was developed by leading standard setters to define world-wide recognised requirements for organic textiles.  From the harvesting of the raw materials, environmentally and socially responsible manufacturing to labelling, textiles certified to GOTS provide a credible assurance to the consumer.

GOTS QUALITY STAMP

Sustainable Baby Gifts – What does sustainability mean?

The simplest explanation is the ability to exist and develop without depleting natural resources for the future.  There are 3 aspects to sustainability: environmental, social, and economic. So, the GOTS certification found on most of the barefoot giraffe products ensure the following:

For a company to receive a GOTS certification, there are strict regulations with regards to the working environment and social rights for those who work in the various stages of the manufacturing process.  A GOTS certification ensures that workers are of adult age, work under good working conditions, are paid fairly, have development opportunities regardless of gender and are allowed freely express their opinions.

The GOTS certification shows that the products are completely free of harmful substances and when dyeing the products, the colours do not contain any toxins that are harmful to humans or the environment.

A GOTS label is a quality stamp that shows that the organic product is of the highest quality made from organically grown raw materials, free from pesticides only using cotton from certified organic cotton growers who get paid fairly.

So, to sum it up if the gift doesn’t cost too much extra but is ethically friendly and looks divine, I’m in!

Here are some of my favourite choices of sustainable baby gifts.

Sustainable Baby Robes