Sterilizer

Germ Guardian Nursery Sanitizer
Product Description
Germs can be passed on toys, especially moist soft toys, where a wet environment is the perfect breeding ground for germs. Help stop the spread of germs on toys, pacifiers, bottles and other baby items, with the Germ Guardian Nursery Sanitizer.It effective

Customer Reviews
MOM of 4
I have 4 kids and moms are always telling me that you do not even wipe off the pacifiers when they drop on the floor after baby # 2 comes along. Not me this product is awesome. I feel so much better cleaning my babies toys and pacifiers in this machine. This is what I now buy for every baby shower I go to.

works well, but limited usefullness
This is a small sanitizer that works well to sterilize pacifiers and teething items, or other SMALL things your child may touch. It takes 30 minutes for one cycle to run, and uses dry heat, so you can sterilize small toys and things you would not put in a dishwasher or washing machine. It is not designed to sterilize bottles or bigger items.

I love this sanitizer!
My daughter got thrush and so we had to sanitize everything our doctor recommended a nursery sanitizer so we purchased this one. We love it! Now we use it for everything. Every time I wash her bottles I throw them in and then put them up. Her toys go in once every other day. She's three months old now and I still use it at least twice a day and she hasn't gotten thrush again since.


Philips Avent iQ24 Steam Sterilizer
Product Description
The new AVENT iQ 24 Electronic Steam Sterilizer is the first intelligent steam sterilizer and is designed to communicate each phase of the sterilization cycle, so you stay informed. With features such as a digital display, electronic countdown and sound alerts, you can always be assured that contents are safe to use. The fast 6-minute cycle and optional 24-hour mode that keeps contents continuously sterile ensures contents are ready to use, day or night. A pause feature lets you remove some items without interrupting the cycle.

Editorial Reviews
From the Manufacturer
The new AVENT iQ 24 Electronic Steam Sterilizer is the first intelligent steam sterilizer and is designed to communicate each phase of the sterilization cycle, so you stay informed. With features such as a digital display, electronic countdown and sound alerts, you can always be assured that contents are safe to use. The fast 6-minute cycle and optional 24-hour mode that keeps contents continuously sterile ensures contents are ready to use, day or night. A pause feature lets you remove some items without interrupting the cycle.

Customer Reviews
Easy to use, more work to maintain.
Yes, the machine itself is easy to use. The assembly and disassembly isn't horribly difficult, either. The maintenance of the machine is a little more. One MUST use distilled water, not soft or hard water. The machine has to be pre-cleaned before the first use to sterilize the machine itself. After using the distilled water, one must descale the machine at least every 4 weeks. The cycles on the machine are not quick, so if you run out of bottles and need them in a hurry, you might as well boil them. My personal feeling is that it's not that big of a deal to boil bottles and a cooking pan doesn't require the amount of maintenance that this machine does. This is great if you get into a routine of doing it nightly, but not so great if you're in a hurry for a sterilized bottle. However, they have a microwave model for that. In either case, they don't recommend the sterilizers be used with glass bottles and that would be my preference given the information on heating plastics (yes, even bpa-free ones). I think it's a little more trouble than it's worth.

Simple and Trouble Free.
Our newborn boy (now 6 weeks old) requires feeding about every 2 to 4 hours. That little task takes a lot of time and patience plus bottles, caps, nipples and other assorted items which are in continuous need of cleansing and care. We've set up a production line and the last item in the line is the Avent iQ 24 sterilizer.

The sterilizer is in operation off and on all day. It's simple to use and effective, as far as I can tell. It sure beats using the oven, that's for sure. It's been trouble free up to this point. I just put the stuff into the trays, add the water, turn it on and wait until the little electric tone tells me it's complete. What could be more simple? We are using the smaller bottles at present, but can easily switch to larger bottles as the baby grows. We use the sterilizer so steadily throughout the day that we've never used the long cycle. Our little baby-feeding cycle and production line seems to work fine. Now, if I could just get the feeding cycle extended to allow me adequate sleep.

Gary Peterson

Recommended sterilization method
Using the microwave or stove top to sterilize baby bottles is time consuming and unreliable. The Philips Avent iQ24 is quick - takes only 6 minutes - and simple - just push a button. No more waiting for water to boil. No more uncertainty if the sterilization is complete. This device takes care of everything in the most simple way possible. Highly efficient, super easy, very effective.

Yes, the price is high - nearly $100 - but the convenience and safety factor make it a worthwhile investment.

Only downsides are:
1) the cheap feel of the unit (but the plus is the light weight)
2) restrictions on bottle type and size.

Overall, if you don't mind the price, this is a great solution for bottle sterlization.

Breast Pump

Medela Swing Breast Pump
Product Description
The only single electric personal use pump with breakthrough 2-Phase Expression® technology for maximum milk flow. First researched and developed for hospital breastpumps, 2-Phase Expression is an advanced pumping pattern that mimics a babys natural nursing rhythm by pumping in two distinct modes.Stimulation mode: To simulate your babys initial rapid sucking to start your milk flowingExpression mode: To simulate your babys slower deeper sucks to express your milk gently and efficiently.

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com Product Description
Designed for busy moms, the Swing breast pump from Medela is a portable, user-friendly and exceptionally efficient pump that can help make your life easier. Originally researched and developed for hospital use, the Swing is the only single electronic personal use pump featuring breakthrough two-phase expression technology for maximum milk flow, proven to reduce pumping time.

Two-Phase Expression Technology
The Swing features two-phase expression technology, an advanced pumping pattern that mimics a baby's natural nursing rhythm. This system works in two modes: the simulation mode and the expression mode. The simulation mode simulates your baby's initial rapid sucking to start your milk flowing, while the expression mode simulates your baby's slower, deeper suckling to express your milk gently yet efficiently. These modes work together to make pumping a quick and painless process.

Comfortable and Convenient
Compact enough to easily fit in your purse, this pump is both safe and comfortable to use, whether you're home, at work, or traveling. The Swing includes many features that help make pumping a positive experience. First, the one touch let down button lets you start pumping immediately, and results in faster milk flow. The included massaging SoftFit breast shield provide exceptional comfort, and the convenient, compact size of the pump lets you place it on a table top, or attach it to the belt clip or included shoulder/neck strap.

You can even store it in your purse, briefcase or the included carrying bag for pumping on the go. Additionally, the adjustable vacuum and speed allows for customized pumping. When it comes to safety, the 100 percent Bisphenol-A (BPA) free Swing ensures a hygienic pumping experience and fresh, chemical-free milk for your baby. It also comes with two durable plastic storage containers and lids for sanitary storage of breast milk.

About Medela
Founded in 1961 in Zug, Switzerland by Olle Larsson, Medela is committed to supporting the WHO Code's depiction of breastfeeding and breast milk as the optimal nutrition for the growth, development and health of babies. The company believes it is their obligation to offer a complete solution, "from breast to belly," of high quality products that enable mothers to provide the optimum nutrition of breast milk to their babies. Today, Medela's primary focus remains to help moms successfully breast feed their babies as long as they wish. This goal lies at the heart of every product the company develops.

What's in the Box
Two each of collection containers and lids, one container stand, one valve, three membranes, one SoftFit breast shield, a carrying bag, Breastfeeding Information Guide, tubing, AC adapter, battery power option, neck/shoulder strap and Instruction Manual.

Customer Reviews
I've tried a bunch... this one is GREAT
OK... so I've been told the Symphony is the Cadillac of breast pumps... but with a price tag of $[...] who can afford that?? Renting it cost $[...] a month if you can find a place to rent it.. I did and used it for a month.. I honestly was not totally impressed for the price. Then I read up on the swing this pump ALSO (like the symphony) includes the Medela 2-Phase Expression Technology - the new standard for unsurpassed naturalness, comfort and efficiency. AND after buying it.. I liked it BETTER then the symphony. Infact I think it works just about the exact same, which is crazy of Medela when the price is SO different. I have tried the Medela Pump in style as well as the Avant Isis and this one is the best.

I would highly reccommend this pump.
POSITIVES:
This pump is portable. Comes with a travel bag, runs on batteries OR you can plug it in. The pump itself is about the size of a Hardees Hamburger. The breast shield is soft and very effective, you can control the speed and it has the letdown mode as well that automatically turns on after a few minutes. The breast shield is soft and comfortable, the suction and speed is the same as the symphony, the pump is SIMPLE to use, FOUR buttons-you can't NOT figure it out easily! It is FAST and emptys your breast totally.

NEGATIVES: (I have to stretch on this one cause I love the pump) It's not quiet, I don't know why the other review says it is.. It's actually louder then I thought it should be.. but not louder then the Medela Pump in style or symphony. But just not "quiet" I don't want you thinking you are going to get something you can pump with at the front of a mini van and noone in the back is going to hear..
It's a Single Pump... I know.. DUH.. but it is a negative, if only they made a double with this size base, I'm almost tempted to buy another.

I highly reccommend this pump, as a mom of three, I've tried a lot of pumps.. I think Medela is selling this pump short saying it is like the pump in style, I think it is comparable to the symphony!

Quiet and easy to use
I was looking for a pump because I'm planning a long car trip which I don't want to make even longer by stopping every 2 hours to feed. Other than that I only plan to use it occasionally -- enough to keep my child taking a bottle. I have the Medela Manual Electric which the hospital gave to me. I used once it once and hated it. It was slow and actually hurt because the required pump action pushes against the breast. This experience made me leary to get the manual Medela Harmony (or similar). I also thought I'd feel weird using a manual pump while fairly visible in a car.

I'm trilled with the Swing.

• It's cute and the parts are small enough to carry large handbag. The pump itself is about the size of a jumbo bagel. The breastsheild and tubing don't take up much more room. If you choose to plug it in then the cord with its wall wort are almost a large as the pump itself.
• It's extremely easy to use as the use of the 4 buttons is intuitive.
• It's quiet. My baby is a noisy eater and she's louder than the pump.
• I guess the drawback is only one breast can be pumped at a time. I found I can get 70ml in about 15 minutes, ie about the same speed as my child. However, it only takes one hand to hold the bottle/breastshield so I can use the computer at the same time. (If I pumped at a table of the right height I might be able to prop up the bottle/breastshield and have 2 hands free.)
  

This pump is awesome for an occasional user. I'll speculate that it would be good for someone who doesn't drive a car to work and doesn't want to lug a Pump In Style, and yet has the flexibility to allow pumping to take a little longer.

I know you are not supposed to love your pump...but I do!
My baby was small (4 pounds 14 ounces) when born and was not able to nurse well. I established my supply on a rental Symphony from the hospital. When it came time to return the Symphony I debated whether to continue renting it or to purchase my own pump. The purchase price of pumps really scared me off, but I considered the Swing because it is intended for daily use, which is what I needed, but was not as pricey as the Pump In Style. I LOVE THE SWING. THe Swing is as efficient, if not more, as the SYmphony. THe fact that it is a single pump does not bother me at all because it is so efficient I am done pumping in 20 minutes - both sides. It is so lightweight and portable that you can go anywhere. After a month of being tied to the huge Symphony every three hours, it was a wonderful and welcome change to be able to go places with the pump. I am a full time working mom and currently use the Swing every day. I fully recommend this!

Baby, For Moms

Serenity Star Pillow - Transitional Body Maternity Pillow
Product Description
Serenity Star - The prenatal to preschool transitional pillow. Designed in three parts, this maternity pillow supports your little dreamer from prenatal to preschool. All together, it is a great sleep aide for expectant mothers.

Customer Reviews
Great for backrub positioning!!
I usually would use this pillow on my left side with my back against one side, my head on the curved part, and my arm and right leg over the other side. It was very helpful in providing back support and giving me something to lean on in front, and since I'm normally a back or stomach sleeper, that support was wonderful.

I found the total body support of this u-shaped maternity pillow to be much more beneficial than the one-sided regular body pillow that I had borrowed from a friend during a previous pregnancy.

I did not use it every night. I only used it on the nights I had trouble sleeping. That way my husband still had his normal amount of space in the bed. On the nights I did use it, there was still enough room for the pillow and both of us, and we have a queen size bed.

I also used it as what I call a "back massage positioner." I put the two sides of the pillow very close together and left an open place near the top U-shape. I would put my belly there in that hole and then lay my head on a regular pillow above the body pillow. This allowed me to be "on my stomach" and receive a back massage from my husband.

My 2.5 year old son also loved this pillow. He called it our "nest" when he would come snuggle in it with me in the morning.

When the pillowcase is on all 3 pieces, forming the body pillow, I could not tell that there were actually 3 pieces inside. It felt like one continuous pillow.

I have not used it as a nursing pillow or youth bolsters. What great versatility, though!

Wow!
I was a bit skeptical, to be honest. I really did not think spending this much money on a pillow was a good idea, but let me tell you, it was. I'm pregnant, and up till now, I've been having hip/back pain to the point where I'm limping in the mornings. It's been 5 nights since I started sleeping with this pillow and I woke up this morning with NO pain what so ever. This pillow is a dream pillow, and I really feel bad for anyone, pregnant or not, who does not sleep with this pillow. I can't imagine sleeping with out it now. I will probably won't take it apart to use as a nursing pillow when my child is born because I don't ever want to sleep without it again.

The con: I'm tall. I'm 5'9 and my feet do not reach the end of the pillow. I like my feet supported when I'm side lying. So when I have a pillow like this that I sleep with underneath my legs, hips, belly, etc., I like it to go all the way down to my feet. It doesn't. It's fine if my knees are bent, but I sometimes like to stretch my legs all the way out, and then my feet hang off. I have had other pregnancy pillows in the past and they were all the same way. The good thing about this company (Moonlight Slumber) is that they make custom size pillows. I didn't realize that until after I ordered it. But, I suggest you go to their website and look at more information about the pillow, and if you also are tall and want your feet supported, spend a few extra bucks and get a custom sized pillow.

This pillow is worth every penny. I have slept soundly and pain free for 5 nights, and there is no price tag one can put on that. I have no regrets.

Sleeping more comfortably
I am 6.5 months pregnant, and although this is a rather large pillow and I'm not accustomed to sleeping with body pillows, I have really appreciated the extra support that this offers on either side. I tried sleeping with the entire thing the first night, and felt like I was in a comfy cocoon. However, I love my regular down pillow, so ever since I have taken out the top portion of the "U" leaving the longer pillows on either side so I can still use my favorite down pillow for my head. Prior to the Serenity Pillow's arrival I was trying to wedge another down pillow underneath by belly and legs each night, but as soon as I turned over it was a lost cause. Having the support on either side is helping me to get more restful sleep right now.


Hi Bebe Heart Rate Monitor/fetal Monitor w/ 8 Ounce Lotion
Product Description
This handy portable fetal doppler detects the fetal heart rate quickly from about 10-12 weeks through labor, and it's safe and simple to use. The new Hi Bebe BT200 hand held fetal heart rate monitor has been designed to be small and lightweight, yet robust, making it ideal for midwives, doctors and of course, pregnant women. The Hi Bebe fetal doppler features an audio speaker, plus a clear LCD display of the fetal heart rate. Not only will the sound of your baby reassure you, but you can bond with your baby from the very beginning. With the built in loudspeaker, you can share the miracle with family and friends. Or use the audio output for earphones to lull yourself to sleep with the sound of your baby's heart beating. The Hi Bebe BT-200 baby fetal monitors come complete with attached probe, batteries and ultrasound transmission gel (everything you need to start monitoring)

Customer Reviews
Peace of Mind
We lost our first child during delivery in 2008. We are now pregnant and I am very anxious. I had bleeding during the end of my first trimester and we decided to purchase this doppler. It was very easy to find her heartbeat the first time we used it at 12 weeks (but I've heard you can hear the heartbeat with this monitor as early as 10 weeks). I use it when I get up and when we go to bed at night...I love the reassurance it gives me. There are times when it takes a while to find her heartbeat, but you have to not only look at the location on your belly, but the pressure as well...and the more you use it, the better time you have finding the heartbeat...it is the most beautiful sound in the world!

great product for the price
I think this is a great doppler for $100. I've been able to find my baby's heartbeat every time I have tried since about 12 weeks. The bpm monitor jumps around a little bit and it's sometimes a little staticky but overall I think it's an excellent product. I would definitely recommend this to all my pregnant friends! :-)

awesome--awesome--awesome!
This is my favorite baby purchase yet! I got it at 13 and a half weeks into my pregnancy and have been able to find my baby's heartbeat everyday ( I am now almost 18 weeks)! It has brought me a lot of comfort and has really helped me bond with my baby. I highly recommend this product!!


Medela Personalfit Connectors
Product Description
Part of Medela's PersonalFit System to provide you comfort and maximize your milk flow while pumping. For use with PersonalFit and SoftFit Breastshields. Works with all Medela Breastpumps except Disposable Kits, Harmony and Little Hearts Manual Breastpump

Customer Reviews
MEDELA is the best!
Always a good idea to have extra parts on hand! If you are building up your milk supply and pumping frequently, you will appreciate fewer trips to the sink for washing up the needed equipment. Time is limited with the big task of taking care of a baby and getting meals ready....

Just use these.
They work as intended. Like you had any other option with your medela pump anyway!

Great replacements
Great for replacing the originals. These are hard to clean, so great to have a spare when soaking/cleaning the others.