Gifts for Babies & Expectant Parents

Natural, organic, non-toxic gifts for baby.

But what if I told you that you don’t have to search high and low?

I recently discovered a monthly subscription service that delivers enriching toys and activities right to your door. And their Koala Crate is next-level stuff for toddlers.

Let’s break it all down, including:

• What Koala Crate is
• How to get a special 40% off promo code
• My honest review of the subscription service
• Plus, important information and cost and shipping

What Is KiwiCo?

KiwiCo (formerly known as Kiwi Crate) is a monthly subscription service made just for kids. Subscribers get a monthly box (aka a crate) full of everything they need to complete a variety of STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) projects, crafts, and activities related to one central theme.

These boxes are specifically designed for different age groups, including:

• Koala Crate: Ages 2-4
• Kiwi Crate: Ages 5-8
• Atlas Crate: Ages 6-11
• Doodle Crate: Ages 14+
• Tinker Crate: Ages 9-16+
• Eureka Crate: Ages 14-104

What Is a Koala Crate?

Koala Crates are specially-made boxes delivered monthly for children aged 2-4. Each delivery includes a hands-on activity for innovative and thought-provoking play, along with an activity guide and DIY craft ideas for parents.

Koala Crates are designed by the experts, guaranteeing your little one will receive age-appropriate and intellectually-stimulating toys. It’s the perfect thing to keep little hands and minds busy, while promoting bonding and learning.

My Honest Koala Crate Review

Finding unique toys is always my goal. I want toys that give kiddos a task that’ll actually keep them engaged and teach them something throughout the process. The Koala Box certainly delivered!

The project: Ocean Games

In this project, toddlers build a mini ocean, then roll up their sleeves and practice fishing (without the mess!).

The Set-Up: “Fill” the Ocean with Fish

Each crate contains a small, round mat that serves as the ocean and a variety of multi-colored felt fish and other sea animals. Let your little one flex their fine-motor skills by placing the felt fish on the mat. Kids love setting up their own design, and you can up the difficulty by asking your child to sort them by type or color if you’d like.

The Task: Fishing

Once the crafted critters are in place, little ones can fish them out using the provided rod. Don’t worry: there are no hooks— just a sticky end piece that grabs the felt. The fishing line is short too, so no casting or reeling will leave you ducking for cover. Your child simply hovers over the fish they’d like and dips the rod down far enough for the suspended end “hook” to catch the felt.

It’s a great combination of fun and learning, and uses a variety of skills in a hands-on activity. The act of catching a fish is exciting and watching your little one beam with pride is priceless.

How it goes down

Kids can fish freely, though challenging them to catch a certain color or animal will keep them guessing.

The time spent completing a round of fishing varies by a child’s age and the way the activity is played. Those closer to age two may take a little longer than a quick and nimble four-year-old, for instance. Overall, the activity doesn’t take too long, and children are engaged the entire time—no matter which way you play.

What I Love About Koala Crate

The fishing activity is a great way to bring the outdoors inside and is age-appropriate in terms of design and expectations. Toddlers are such little balls of energy, and this activity harnessed that in a positive, fun way. I recommend the Koala Crate because:

• It builds skills: This specific activity was perfect for building on hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.
• It’s engaging: Kids love accomplishing things, and each “hooked” fish is a reward. This keeps your child focused on each catch.
• Difficulty can vary: Parents can mix in other skills during play, such as color and animal identification, counting, and more. This keeps the game fun and extends its lifespan in your toy chest.
• It’s designed by experts: Each crate is designed specifically for a set age group by child development professionals. Toddlers are rapidly learning the world around them, and each crate reflects this.
• It’s tested by kids: Every single Koala Crate is tested by real kids to ensure projects are fun and age-appropriate. And this was evident based on the fact that my son really did want to dive right into this project, then had a blast seeing it through.

How Much Is a Koala Crate Subscription?

The price of Koala Crates depends on how many months you sign up for. The longer you commit to receiving the subscription box, the less expensive it is each month.

If you want the least expensive 12-month option (a savings of $155.40 over the course of the year), you have to commit to paying more upfront—about $200. The good news? The most flexible option, a month-to-month subscription, isn’t too much more expensive, at $19.95 each month.

Though the 12-month Koala Crate subscription is a greater investment in the long run, some people prefer this option, because it breaks up payments. It also provides the flexibility to cancel Koala Crate whenever you’d like.

What is a Deluxe Koala Crate?

A Deluxe Koala Crate is the same as a regular Koala Crate, but also includes a book specifically curated to go with each month’s theme. This add-on comes with a slight upcharge of $9.95 per order.

How Long Does KiwiCo Koala Crate Shipping Take?

If you live in the U.S., your first Koala Crate will ship in 2-3 business days. Once shipped, your Koala Crate will arrive within 5-7 days.

Subsequent crates ship once monthly. You can review your ship date on KiwiCo’s website in the “my account” section.

How About You?

Have you tried a Koala Crate? Let me know all about it in comments below!

The post Koala Crate Review From Both Kids & Parents + Promo Code! appeared first on Mama Natural.

If you’re new to organic baby clothes, we created this guide with some of our favorites, plus tips on how to be sure your baby clothes are safe.

Be sure you’re really getting organic clothes…

Just because a package boasts the words “organic” doesn’t mean it actually is.

For example, a onesie labeled organic may only contain 10% organic fibers, while the rest is made of non-organic materials. Even popular companies like Gerber do this! (Gerber is also known for unfair and unsafe labor practices overseas. BOO!) (source)

Look for clothes that are both GOTS- and OEKO-TEX-certified.

Let’s breakdown these certifications…

• GOTS-certified: Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is the strictest textile processing standard. In order to receive this certification, fabric must be free from toxic dyes and bleaches and the products must contain at least 70% organic fibers. Even the packaging must meet standards, such as being free from PVC. (source)
• OEKO-TEX: This is a global certification that means the fabric has been tested for toxic chemicals.

The Best Organic Baby Clothes

Burt’s Bees

This popular brand also makes great lip balms! A mom favorite, Burt’s Bees carry a full line of the essentials, including onesies, pajamas, blankets, swaddles, and layette sets. Their burp cloths are particularly awesome!

We like the Burt’s Bees clothing line, because the clothes are super soft, adorable and the company is upfront about their 100 percent organic, GOTS-certified fabrics. They even share their GOTS-certification registration number for accountability.

Price range: $11+

Our favorite picks:

We wonder: What’s the best way to connect? Am I connecting enough?! 

That’s why I was so excited to discover a company that helps parents with this dilemma. It’s called Lovevery. 

What is Lovevery?

Lovevery Play Kits

Lovevery is a company that creates fun and educational toys for kids. Each toy that the company manufactures—from a baby play gym, to high-contrast flash cards, to mobiles, and more—are all created to encourage early brain development.

“There is something magical about a toy if it’s done right, because it can help clue the parent into what the baby is hungry to do.” —Jessica Rolph, co-founder of Lovevery, told TIME

What Are Lovevery Play Kits?

Though you can buy select products individually (the play gym, a doll stroller, a block set, and more), Lovevery is best known for the Lovevery Play Kits—boxes that are specifically curated to suit various stages of learning and development. They currently have 10 different options, including:

Lovevery play kits for babies:

• The Looker Play Kit (Weeks 0-12): This play kit includes items like a mobile, high-contrast flash cards and various holders, high-contrast mittens, a wooden book, and a rattle with a removable ball.
• The Charmer Play Kit (Months 3-4): This play kit includes items like a wooden rattle, a rolling bell, a soft book, a mirror, high-contrast cards, a crinkle bag, and a soft teething ring.
• The Senser Play Kit (Months 5-6): This play kit includes items like a Montessori ball, play socks, a tummy time waddler, and a bib.
• The Inspector Play Kit (Months 7-8): This play kit includes items like a wooden box and ball set, stacking cups, a puzzle, felt balls, and a drinking cup.
• The Explorer Play Kit (Months 9-10): This play kit includes items like wooden blocks, stacking rings, an egg cup, bean bags, and a soft wool blanket.
• The Thinker Play Kit (Months 11-12): This play kit includes items like a doll, a pincer puzzle, a wallet and “credit cards,” and wooden coins.

See an unboxing of the Think Play Kit below:

Lovevery play kits for toddlers:

• The Babbler Play Kit (Months 13,14, and 15): This play kit includes items like a ball run, wooden stackers, puzzles, felt baskets, balls, and books.
• The Pioneer Play Kit (Months 16,17, and 18): This play kit includes items like a car ramp, a ball, a mirror, books, a puzzle, and a threadable bead kit.
• The Realist Play Kit (Months 19,20, and 21): This play kit includes items like a lockbox, balls, a matching game, a pitcher and glass, a flashlight, and books.
• The Companion Play Kit (Months 22, 23, and 24): This play kit includes items like

See inside some of the toddler play kits below:

Lovevery Discount Code

Though Lovevery doesn’t currently have a discount code or coupon for the play kits, you can still get a great deal:

My Honest Lovevery Play Kit Review

The Babbler Play Kit

Unboxing the play kit

When our first Lovevery Play Kit arrived, we dumped the whole thing out to let our daughter, Faith, explore. It was a really fun and delightful sensory experience for her.

But, next time, I think I’d opt to unbox myself and take one toy out at a time. This is actually something I recommend for all kids’ toys. It’s the paradox of choice—when kids have too many choices, none of them seem all that great. But if you grab one thing and cycle through it, kids have no choice but to explore. Generally, this is a very positive experience for them—and it’s a great way to capture their attention. 

And with all of the different toys in each kit, you essentially have one toy for each day of the week!

Playing with the play kit

Lovevery Play Kit – Coin Bank

Faith had so much fun interacting with the play kit. And it really hit the mark developmentally.

The parental resources that comes in the crate are pretty fantastic, too. As I mentioned above, playing with a newborn has its own set of challenges, but the parental resources (essentially large-format flash cards secured with a ring) that come with each play kit really guide you through each toy and provide recommendations for how to use the toy to interact with your child.

Lovevery Parent Cards

These cards also provide information about why each toy is so great for this specific stage of baby’s development—it’s truly fascinating stuff!

What I Love About Lovevery Play Kits

It’s stimulating

Faith was delighted to explore a variety of new toys. I really saw her light up while she interacted with each and every item in the box. This was a huge win!

It teaches important skills

There’s a sensory element to discovering new toys, but I love that all of the included toys are specifically chosen, because they teach valuable skills. Through the toys in the box, I witnessed Faith extending her motor skills, problem-solving skills, and critical thinking skills. She also got to explore the concept of cause and effect and build upon her (soon-to-be) exploding vocabulary.

It’s expertly curated

These boxes are designed by academics (professors and researchers), as well as former educators and child development professionals to ensure all of the items in the Lovevery play kits are developmentally appropriate for each age group and facilitate early learning.

How Much Do Lovevery Play Kits Cost?

Baby play kits

The baby Lovevery play kits cost $80. Because each kit is designed to span two to three months, this equates to approximately $40 per month.

But if you pay for the whole kit upfront, you’ll receive a 10% discount, making the kit cost just $36 per month. 

Toddler play kits

The toddler play kits cost $120. Because each kit is designed to span three months, this equates to $40 per month.

But if you pay for the whole kit upfront, you’ll receive a 10% discount, making the kit cost just $36 per month. 

Bonus: The Lovevery Play Gym

Lovevery Play Gym for Baby

Lovevery also makes the most beautiful and high-quality play gym I’ve ever seen! I wish I knew about this when Faith was younger—she would have loved it. The mat has won numerous awards, because both parents and kids love it. Why?

It’s aesthetically pleasing… 

This play mat has a really beautiful design. It has pretty, muted colors that suit a wide range of decors (aka doesn’t scream baby toy), but is still very stimulating for baby. It also has gorgeous natural wood legs that are sustainably sourced. It’s one piece of baby gear you definitely won’t mind sitting out.

It’s amazingly versatile and stimulating…

This play gym doesn’t have any sounds or flashing lights, but is way more engaging than any of those mats could ever be. The comfortable cotton base has all kinds of interactive features, like crinkle fabric, pulleys, pockets, and textured fabric. It also comes with high-contrast flash cards that nestle into a folder that attaches to the play mat via velcro.

The play gym also comes with a number of engrossing items you can hang from the wooden legs—a high-contrast Montessori ball, a wooden batting ring complete with a bell and clappers, and an organic cotton crinkle teether.

And one of the coolest parts is it grows with baby…

Lovevery Play Gym for Toddlers

We may have missed the newborn phase with Faith, but this play gym is a fun toy for toddlers too. In addition to all of the above, it comes with a cover that turns the whole thing into a play tent! The older kids have so much fun crawling in and out of the fort and turning it into their very own play space.

The post Lovevery Play Kits: A Mom’s Honest Review appeared first on Mama Natural.

What happened to good old-fashioned fun? You know, the kind that made kids think and move?

Well, guess what? It’s still out there. It’s called the Atlas Crate.

Let’s unpack it all, including:

• What an Atlas Crate is
• How to get a special 40% off promo code
• My honest review of the subscription service
• Plus, important information and cost and shipping

What Is KiwiCo?

KiwiCo (formerly known as Kiwi Crate) is a monthly subscription service made just for kids. Subscribers get a monthly box (aka a crate) full of everything they need to complete a variety of STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) projects, crafts, and activities related to one central theme.

These boxes are specifically designed for different age groups, including:

• Koala Crate: Ages 2-4
• Kiwi Crate: Ages 5-8
• Atlas Crate: Ages 6-11
• Doodle Crate: Ages 14+
• Tinker Crate: Ages 9-16+
• Eureka Crate: Ages 14-104

What Is an Atlas Crate?

Atlas Crates are monthly deliveries of thought-provoking and fun activities for children aged 6 to 11. Included projects are hands-on and unique, testing children’s minds as they engage.

Every crate features globally-inspired activities, teaching children about different cultures through fun, informative play. Collectible cards and stickers come with each, too, allowing kids to commemorate their around-the-world education.

My Honest Atlas Crate Review

With so many time-suck toys and activities out there, finding something worthwhile is a challenge. Many of us want to limit our child’s screen time in this age of instant-gratification, but don’t want to rob them of fun.

The Atlas Box is an excellent solution, delivering projects to your door that keep kids’ minds engaged while they play. They’re age-appropriate and enjoyable, teaching kids about the world around them through games and projects.

The Peru Atlas Crate, an Overview

In this Atlas Crate, kids get to explore Central America without leaving the house. Whether they’re testing their alpaca-making skills or weaving a blanket, children use their hands and imagination to experience the wonders of Peru. This box is packed with things to do, and will keep kids busy with a variety of tasks.

Playing with the crate

Crafty kids will love this box, as it’s ripe with opportunities to explore their talents. It contains supplies to make an alpaca, an indigenous camelid species to Peru. Children learn about life in the Andes mountains by weaving a hat and small blanket for their new furry friend. They also learn about Peru’s Nazca Line art by making their own.

DIY projects also include a Peruvian instrument called the antara flute and a tasty quinoa con leche, a milk pudding similar to rice pudding.

Aside from keeping their minds and hands busy with crafts, kids can enjoy a game called sapo. Similar to popular carnival games, the objective is to throw get small coins into a toy frog’s open mouth. This requires focus, but is a great way to unwind and have fun.

What I Love About the Atlas Crate

This box has so many things to do. As children age, they tend to plow through activities, but this box really holds their attention. They can bounce between tasks if they choose, switching things up while they learn.

I give this box ★★★★★, because:

• It inspires imagination: It’s a great, big world out there, and kids should know about it! This box, in particular, contained several art projects that foster creativity and teach children about life in other lands. It might just inspire some wanderlust, too!
• It builds skills: Most toys and activities today don’t challenge kids to tap into what they do and don’t know while having fun. Children aren’t just weaving with this box, they’re learning a skill.
• It inspires pride: Any time a child makes something, it’s an accomplishment. By making all these fun tasks, kids see the end result of their hard work and have something to be proud of.
• Variable difficulty: Some things in this box were harder than others. Sports-minded kids may thrive at sapo, while creative kiddos will excel in weaving. By having a variety of activities, kids are forced to step out of their comfort zone and learn.
• Experts designed it: I loved not having to worry about receiving a product that isn’t age- or skill-appropriate. Each item is well-suited for the age range and provided fun that wasn’t too easy or too hard.

How Much Are Atlas Crates?

The price of Atlas Crates depends on how many months you sign up for. The longer you commit to receiving the subscription box, the less expensive it is each month.

If you want the least expensive 12-month option (a savings of $155.40 over the course of the year), you have to commit to paying more when you sign up—about $200. The good news? The most flexible option, a month-to-month subscription, isn’t too much more expensive. It costs $19.95 each month.

Though the 12-month Atlas Crate subscription is a larger investment, some people prefer this, since it breaks up payments. It also provides the flexibility to cancel Atlas Crate whenever you’d like.

How Long Does Atlas Crate Shipping Take?

Your first Atlas Crate will ship in 2-3 business days after purchase and arrive within 5-7 days after shipping if you live in the U.S. Your next crate will ship automatically the next month.

You can review your expected ship date on KiwiCo’s website.

How About You?

Have you tried an Atlas Crate? What’d you think? Let me in the comments below!

The post Atlas Crate Review From Both Kids & Parents + Promo Code! appeared first on Mama Natural.

But once the kids get a little older, something starts to shift. Inevitably, they start reaching for the iPad.

Though screen limits are so important, I know firsthand just how resistant kids can be to low-media lifestyles.

That’s why I’m so thankful for toys like the Tinker Crate—a fun and engaging toy that gets my kids off of any devices we have in the house.

Sounds, amazing, right?! Read on to find out:

• What Tinker Crate is
• How to get a special 40% off promo code
• My honest review of the subscription service
• Plus, important information and cost and shipping

What Is KiwiCo?

KiwiCo (formerly Kiwi Crate) is a monthly subscription service made just for kids. Each month, subscribers get a box (referred to as a crate) full of everything they need to complete a variety of STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) projects, crafts, and activities related to a central theme.

These boxes are specifically designed for different age groups, including:

• Koala Crate: Ages 2-4
• Kiwi Crate: Ages 5-8
• Atlas Crate: Ages 6-11
• Doodle Crate: Ages 14+
• Tinker Crate: Ages 9-16+
• Eureka Crate: Ages 14-104

What Are Tinker Crates?

Tinker Crates are the KiwiCo crates for children ages 9-16+.

The Tinker Crate is a hands-on kit that helps kids explore a STEM project each month. It comes with all of the materials needed to complete a featured experiment, plus a book full of additional science projects and experiments, and access to online tutorials with tips and tricks for completing the projects.

All Tinker Crates are carefully curated by experts (including former educators and child development professionals) at KiwiCo to ensure they’re age-appropriate and fun, but effective learning tools.

My Honest Tinker Crate Review, Plus What the Kids Say

When our Tinker Crate arrived, we asked our nine-year-old and his friends (another nine-year-old and an eight-year-old) to give it a try. Here’s how things went down:

The project: Make a hand-crank automaton

Our box contained everything the kids needed to create their automaton—a machine designed to follow a predetermined set of actions.

Building the automaton

There was a lot of initial excitement over the project. One of the boys even said, “This is going to be the coolest invention I think I’ve ever made!”

It was great to see the kids so excited about taking on a challenge, but I was glad to see that the language and the directions themselves were manageable for them.

It was immediately clear that it was complex enough to hold their attention, but not so difficult that they got frustrated and lost interest.

That said, it’s not a project you can leave the kids with and walk away. Though the boys generally got the hang of it themselves, they did need dad’s help on one occasion. And, when we walked away to help Paloma and her friend with their Kiwi Crate, the boys got discouraged by the instructions and gave up on the project.

The finished product

From start to finish, the whole activity took about 40 minutes. The boys worked on the project in two parts. Their initial go at it lasted about 20 minutes, before they got a little bit frustrated and decided to take a break.

But once they had some time away from the project, they were ready to try again. Dad was back to offer any help, but mostly he just helped them focus on the instructions, which were challenging but not too challenging for the boys.

It took another 20 minutes or so for the boys to finish the rest of the automaton.

In a way, this was a great lesson for them. Because of their persistence, they felt an even greater sense of accomplishment once the toy was built, and had so much fun watching their new machine move the wooden balls up and down the “stairs” they had built.

What I Love About Tinker Crate

Overall, this was a really fun toy. I was so happy to see Griffin and his friends so excited about making an “invention.” And, even though they had a little difficulty, they learned that persistence and patience pays off. I think that little bit of hardship actually made them enjoy the new toy even more.

Some other things I liked about the crate:

• It’s stimulating: This project was by no means easy, but with a little help, it was attainable. I love how it really works those critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• It encourages teamwork: Because the project was a little bit challenging, the boys really needed to work together (and occasionally with parents) to finish the project. They were so supportive of each other during the process and really wanted to succeed as a unit.
• It’s expertly curated: These boxes are designed by former educators and child development professionals, then reviewed by an advisory board that includes educational, developmental psychology, art, and science professionals. This process ensures the projects in the Tinker Crates are developmentally appropriate for each age group.
• It’s tested by kids: Every single Tinker Crate is tested by real kids to ensure projects are fun and age-appropriate. And this was evident based on the fact that my son really did want to dive right into this project, then had a blast seeing it through.

How Much Are Tinker Crates?

As is customary with most subscription-based services, the price of Tinker Crates is dependent on how many months you sign up for. The longer you commit to receiving the subscription box, the less expensive it is each month.

That means: If you want the least expensive 12-month option (a savings of $155.40 over the course of the year), you have to commit to paying about $200 upfront. The good news? The most flexible option, which is a month-to-month subscription, isn’t too much more expensive. It costs just $19.95 each month.

So while it is a greater investment in the long run, some people prefer this option, since it breaks up payments. It also provides the flexibility to cancel Tinker Crate whenever you’d like.

What is a Deluxe Tinker Crate?

A Deluxe Tinker Crate is the same as a regular Tinker Crate, but also includes a book specifically curated to go with each month’s theme. This bonus comes with a slight upcharge of $9.95 per order.

How Long Does KiwiCo Tinker Crate Shipping Take?

When you order your first box, KiwiCo typically sends your Tinker Crate within 2 to 3 business days of purchase. Once it ships, your Tinker Crate will typically arrive within 5-7 days. 

Going forward, you’ll get a new box every month for the duration of your subscription. If you’re unsure when your next box will ship out, you can check your order status on the “My Account” page of the KiwiCo website.

How About You?

Have you tried Tinker Crate? Let us know in the comments below!

The post Tinker Crate Review From Both Kids & Parents + Promo Code! appeared first on Mama Natural.

Don’t worry, I’ll explain it all, including:

What is a Haakaa?

The haakaa is a hands-free silicone breast pump that uses suction to draw milk out. Unlike other pumps, the haakaa is made from one single piece of 100 percent food-grade silicone. It doesn’t require any batteries, plugs, or tubing—it’s completely hands-free!

Another huge benefit of the haakaa is that it’s a great way to save excess milk. Many mamas find that, when their supply is still regulating, they tend to leak. Instead of use nursing pads or a cloth to sop up that milk, the haakaa catches it, so you can freeze it and give it to baby once they’re taking a bottle down the road.

The haakaa isn’t just for new mamas though. It can be used as a manual pump throughout your breastfeeding journey. Since it’s so small, it’s a great option to toss in your purse or overnight bag if you think you might need to express a bit of milk in a pinch.

How to Use a Haakaa Silicone Breast Pump

Using the haakaa couldn’t be easier. Here’s what the instructions recommend:

1. Before the first use, wash and sanitize the pump. To do so, product literature recommends boiling the pump for 2-3 minutes, then drying thoroughly with a cloth.
2. Before each use, situate yourself wherever you’ll be nursing your baby.
3. Place the flange over your breast. Your nipple should be directly in the center of the tunnel.
4. Squeeze the base and release to create suction.
5. Nurse your baby as usual on the other side to trigger letdown.
6. Allow milk to collect while you nurse. If suction begins to decrease, you may need to readjust. It is also helpful to have an additional collection vessel handy (like a breast milk storage bag or silicone freezer tray) in the initial days when milk supply is plentiful, just in case the haakaa fills up.
7. Once done, remove the pump by squeezing lightly (careful not to spill that milk!) and transfer milk to storage containers or attach the companion bottle nipple (sold with some models) and feed baby.
8. Wash the pump with warm, soapy water and store until next use.

But many mamas find there is an easier way to create better suction:

1. Flip out the flange on the pump.
2. Center the pump over the nipple.
3. Squeeze the base of the pump.
4. Release the pump and unfold the flange so that it covers your breast.

Types of Haakaa

Like most breast pumps, there is more than one model of the haakaa available. Let’s take a look:

Haakaa Manual Breast Pump

Haakaa Manual Breast Pump – Haakaa Review Find Out How This Pump Can Help You Collect More Milk post by Mama Natural

The Haakaa Manual Breast Pump (to buy) is the model that started it all. This model is budget-friendly, coming in under $13 for the 4-ounce pump. Because it is constructed of one solid piece of 100 percent food-grade silicone, it is incredibly easy to store, tote, and clean. Like all haakaa models, this one is free from BPA, PVC, lead, and phthalates.

Haakaa Orignal With Flower Stopper

Haakaa Orignal With Flower Stopper – Haakaa Review Find Out How This Pump Can Help You Collect More Milk post by Mama Natural

The Haakaa Orignal With Flower Stopper (to buy) comes with a cute flower, which acts as a cap to prevent spilled milk. This is the most popular model, because it is still affordable but comes with the flower stopper, which many mamas consider invaluable. Note: This can be a choking hazard as baby gets older and likes to put things in her/his mouth.

Haakaa Convertible

Haakaa Convertible – Haakaa Review Find Out How This Pump Can Help You Collect More Milk post by Mama Natural

For a slight upcharge, mamas can get the Haakaa Convertible (to buy), which allows you to add a nipple and turn the collected milk into a bottle for baby. This model is particularly nice when you’re using the haakaa on-the-go or traveling. If you don’t have access to a fridge to store the collected milk, turning it into a bottle means that you don’t have to waste the milk and your baby can enjoy it right away.

Haakaa With Suction Base

Haakaa With Suction Base – Haakaa Review Find Out How This Pump Can Help You Collect More Milk post by Mama Natural

The Haakaa With Suction Base (to buy) is another variation on the original model. It’s very similar, but is available in three different sizes: 3 ounce, 4 ounce, or 5.4 ounce. The bigger pump may be better for moms with overactive letdown or moms who plan on traveling a lot. This model also features a leak-proof lid and suction cup base to prevent spills.

Other options

The concept behind haakaa is starting to spread like wildfire and there are tons of copycat options, the most common of which are Bumblebee and Naturebond. Though both Bumblebee and Naturebond are less expensive than the haakaa, customers seem to have some reservations about straying from the original brand.

• Several reviewers on Amazon note that Bumblebee measurements on the pump appear to be slightly off.
• And a few reviewers say the suction on the Naturebond decreases after several washes.

Overall, though, Haakaa, Bumblee, and Naturebond all have about 75-77 percent 5-star ratings on Amazon. If you’re looking for a basic model, you can’t really go wrong. But, if you’re looking to get the most bang for your buck, the haakaa reigns supreme when you factor in options like suction bases, leak-proof lids, and the ability to convert into a bottle.

Haakaa Reviews From Other Moms

“[I] can’t imagine breastfeeding without it! After going through multiple nursing pads on the daily and trying those in-bra milk catchers, the haakaa has been the only thing that keeps me dry and saves those precious ounces! Baby on one side, haakaa on the other!!” — Randi W.

“I didn’t touch my electric pump until the final week of my 12-week maternity leave, but still had a freezer stocked. I’d just hook it up to whatever side I wasn’t nursing. A few things that were key for me: I wish I had known this earlier on, but if you have a nursing/pumping hybrid bra—use it with the haakaa! It gives you a little extra security from baby’s wandering hands, or a droopy pump when it starts filling up. Also, take a coffee mug and designate it your haakaa mug. Some haakaas have a suction base, but overall they’re pretty unstable. A coffee mug ensures you won’t be crying over split milk.” — Megan C.

“Most people use it for collecting milk to build their stash, which I did a bit, but I also found it incredibly useful and helpful when I was having oversupply issues. Despite having a lot of milk, my daughter was still eating very frequently. The issue was that she was getting a lot of foremilk, which is very watery, and getting full on that before she could get to the good fatty hindmilk. I was able to use the haakaa to “pump” off an ounce or two on each side before feeding to help her get to the good stuff faster. My daughter started gaining weight better and then I was able to resolve my oversupply issues with block feeding.” — Rachel C.

“In the first 3 weeks since my daughter was born I’ve caught 100 ounces! When she wasn’t gaining fast enough, instead of supplementing with formula, I was able to use that caught milk.” — Jennifer W.

Though praise is overwhelming, some mamas say there’s a little bit of a learning curve:

“It was a little awkward with my son at first and I did accidentally knock it off my breast a few times, but otherwise a lifesaver!!” — Amanda K.

“Unless you need a large flange size, do not get the 5 ounce one. Even when I had a new small baby that didn’t move much during nursing, it was so cumbersome and in the way!” — Rachel D.

There were also a few mamas—particularly those with limited milk supply—who said the haakaa just didn’t work out for them.

“I was very disappointed in the haakaa, since there’s so many mamas that rave about the product. My supply was never great, though; barely produced enough to keep my daughter fed.” — Brandee M.

“I don’t leak at all. Even with all the tricks and hacks, I get drops!” — Anne L.

Common Questions About the Haakaa

Does the haakaa pump increase supply?

Your body produces milk on a supply and demand basis. This means that you can train your body to expect a certain number of nursing sessions. Using the haakaa can—in this way—help your body increase supply by stimulating letdown and milk flow. If you use this pump as directed—to catch milk that would otherwise leak on your breast pad—you probably won’t overstimulate your milk production. That being said, if you use the haakaa when you aren’t nursing your baby, you could affect supply.

Does the haakaa only collect foremilk?

No. Foremilk is thinner and less fatty than hindmilk, so it flows quickly and easily during any pumping session (manual or electric). The same is true when you use this pump—the foremilk will flow easily and quickly, while the hindmilk is slower. Keep your pump attached and eventually, foremilk will give way to hindmilk.

Can you use the haakaa as your main breast pump?

Due to the gentle constant pressure created by the suction, the haakaa breast pump does stimulate milk flow. In this sense, it does more than just collect the milk that leaks. However, if you rely on pumping (e.g. pumping at work), you will need an electric pump, because they allow you to pump both breasts at the same time, thus collecting a larger amount of milk in a shorter amount of time. Check out the best breast pumps here. 

Do you have to sterilize the haakaa after every use?

It’s important to wash this pump (and any bottle or pump) after every use. The haakaa product literature strongly encourages sterilization after each use. If you need to sterilize it, boil it for 2-3 minutes or use a steam sterilization method.

Is the haakaa dishwasher safe?

Yes! Although the haakaa manufacturer encourages sterilization, it’s important to note that this pump is dishwasher safe. Simply pop the pump in the top rack with the open hole facing down. Allow the pump to dry thoroughly before storing.

How About You?

Have you ever used the haakaa or another milk saver?

The post Haakaa Review: Find Out How This Pump Can Help You Collect More Milk appeared first on Mama Natural.

The Best Cloth Diapers

Best flat cloth diaper

“Flats” refer to a system in which a flat cloth is folded around the baby and then covered. You simply change the pads when they are wet and use the outside cover through multiple diaper changes (unless, of course, it gets dirty or wet).

These OsoCozy Organic Birdseye Cotton Flats are made from 100 percent cotton, are affordable, and—the best of all—work for newborns as well as toddlers. Just note: You’ll also need Snappis to make the folding easier and a diaper cover to keep your little one dry.

Best prefold cloth diaper

A prefold is very similar to the flat diaper—in fact, you might not notice much of a difference at first glance. But the flat is a square piece of cloth, while the prefold has an extra layer of thick fabric in the center. Most mamas prefer prefolds over flats when comparing these two options, because of the extra absorbency.

The OsoCozy 100 percent cotton prefolds are used as part of a three-part system: the prefold, the diaper cover, and an optional fastener, such as a safety diaper pin or a Snappi. When babies are older, you can simply fold the prefold into thirds and lay it flat in the cover, which omits the need for the fastener.

Best newborn cloth diaper

Though you can start cloth diapering from day one, cloth diapers can be a bit fluffy for a smaller newborn. For this reason, many mamas purchase newborn-sized diapers for the first few weeks and then upgrade to the regular cloth diapers after a few months. The Cloth-eez Workhorse fitted diapers are perfect for those little bottoms. 

Newborn Cloth Diaper Pros and Cons Chart

Best fitted cloth diaper

A fitted diaper takes the concept of a prefold (soaker and cover) and then eliminates the need for folding, pinning, and securing the soaker. These diapers are form-fitting with elastic around waist and legs to help prevent blowouts. But, unless your diaper has a PUL liner, you do need a cover. A fitted diaper also uses Velcro or snaps to stay closed, and these diapers are form-fitting with elastic around the waist and legs.

This Thirsties Natural One Sized Fitted is made from cotton and works with most diaper covers. With over 11 layers (including the snap-in insert), your baby will stay nice and dry when paired with the cover.

Fitted Cloth Diaper Pros and Cons Chart

Best contour cloth diaper

A contour is similar to a prefold or flat diaper (i.e. it requires a diaper cover). The big difference? The cloth isn’t straight—it’s contoured for a more streamlined fit that will catch more of your baby’s poop.

The Bumkins Reusable Soaker can be placed into the diaper cover of choice.

Contour Cloth Diaper Pros and Cons Chart

Best pocket cloth diaper

A pocket diaper involves a simple setup—just insert a soaker pad into the pocket in the diaper. The bumGenius Original Pocket 5.0 is made in the United States and features a soft interior that’s gentle on baby’s sensitive skin.

Pocket Cloth Diaper Pros and Cons Chart

Best all-in-two

The all-in-two is similar to the pocket diaper—there’s no folding required. However, the difference is that the all-in-two soaker snaps into the diaper and lays against your baby—not in the pocket—which allows you to change only the inserts during diaper changes. You only need to change the cover if it becomes wet or soiled. Because the insert snaps in and out, it also speeds up drying time.

The Happy Ending AI2 (all-in-two) is a popular choice among new and veteran cloth diapering mamas. Plus, how cute is the yoga fox?

All-in-Two Cloth Diaper Pros and Cons Chart

Best hybrid cloth diaper

As the name suggests, hybrids are a cross between fully cloth and fully disposable. The GroVia Hybrid system uses reusable diaper covers with biodegradable inserts. Your inserts can be tossed, flushed, or even composted.

Hybrid Cloth Diaper Pros and Cons Chart

Best Swim Diaper

Best Swim Diaper Pros and Cons Chart

A word about Velcro: We don’t recommend this type of closure, because it can snag other clothes, inserts, or diapers in the washing machine. They also tend to lose their “stickiness” with age. But, if you are absolutely set on a velcro closure, try this one.

Which One is Right for YOUR Baby?

Some mamas choose to try a few styles at first, rather than committing to one style. Purchase one or two of each style, then when you know which ones are your favorite, stock up.

But don’t toss your least favorites: You might find that you prefer certain styles during certain ages. For example, many mamas like the flats and prefolds during infancy (since you change diapers so often), but switch to all-in-ones once babies starts eating solids.

More Resources

So you’ve got your diaper stash—now what? Take a peek at this post on cloth diapering to help you get started.

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The post Best Cloth Diapers for Newborns and Toddlers appeared first on Mama Natural.

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The Best Diaper Bags

Best diaper bags for the health nut

Many diaper bags are waterproof (often at the expense of using harmful fabrics), but these bags don’t contain those harmful plastics. If you’re looking for the most natural option available, consider these: