September was National Baby Safety Month…and as the month came to a close, we had countless safety articles worth sharing from some of our favorite sites.  So, in honor of keeping our kids safe, we’d like to let you in on these must-reads!

:: Second-Hand Baby Gear

This year’s main focus of National Baby Safety Month was on second-hand baby gear.  Did you know that second-hand gear may pose serious safety risks for your child? Not knowing the history of a product’s use, new safety standards, and missing parts are just a few reasons why being selective when using second-hand baby gear is so important. Some items are best to borrow/buy, and others are recommended NOT to use second-hand when it comes to equipping baby.

For a list of these items, and more information on the topic, check out the SheKnows.com article, Take Another Look at Second Hand Baby Gear here.

:: Baby-Proofing

Different homes require different levels of baby-proofing. However, the folks over at Parenting.com have compiled a great list of universal must-have baby proofing items. See their article, Baby Proofing Must Haves here.

:: Safety Checklist

Looking for a comprehensive safety checklist when kid-proofing your home? Check out Baby Center's all-inclusive list here.

:: Safety Plan

Family Corner has provided a wonderful 30-day plan for tightening up your safety belts in and around the house. Highlighting a wide range of safety issues, following this plan will result in a safer environment for your baby. Take a look at their 30-day Calendar of Tips here.

:: Unexpected Dangers

Dangers are hidden in numerous baby items that many of us consider harmless. We recommend looking at Stroller Traffic’s article, 10 Expected Dangers for Babies here.

:: Car Seat Safety

Wanting to better understand the reasoning behing car seat expirations?  Read our previous blog post, What’s the Big Deal? Do Car Seats Really Expire? here.

Among the seemingly endless list of to-do’s in preparation for baby, is the task of getting your bag ready for your anticipated delivery and hospital stay.  Below you will find our checklist of must haves when packing this infamous bag.  There are obviously several things that will need to be thrown in at the last minute, but there are even more things that can be prepared and packed weeks ahead of time…just in case!

GETTING DOWN TO BUSINESS:

When your find yourself in labor, scrambling to find your insurance cards is probably the last thing you’ll feel like doing! Have these following items on hand and ready to eliminate unnecessary last-minute stress.

:: Insurance Cards

:: ID

:: Hospital Paperwork

:: Birth Plan (if you have one)

:: Wallet with Checkbook, Credit Card, Spare Cash/Change

PERSONAL ITEMS FOR MOMMY (and a few for DADDY):

While there are many things that the hospital will provide for you, being prepared with your own personal items can only enrich the hospital experience and help you to feel all the more like yourself during this time of transition.  We are firm believers that taking good care of yourself at this time will only make you feel better faster! Plus, with constant photo opts, and endless visitors, it’s always nice to feel put together (or somewhat…at least!).

 :: Toiletries:

   Soap

   Shampoo

   Toothpaste/Toothbrush

   Hairdryer

   Light Makeup

   Razor

   Hair Bands

   Deodorant

   Your Favorite Lotion

   Lip Balm

:: Electronics:

   Cell Phone

   iPod and Earphones

   Camera

   Video Camera

   Batteries

   Chargers/Cords

:: Nursing Pads/ Nipple Cream

:: Nursing Bra/Sports Bra

:: Flip Flops (For Showering)  

:: Nice Socks or Slippers

:: Sleepwear: Nightgowns or Comfy Pajamas, Bathrobe

 You’re sure to feel better after changing out of that revealing hospital gown!

:: LIGHT Reading Material

 Grab a People Magazine or two…save your deep reading for later!

:: Music

Prepare a few playlists ahead of time… during labor or restless nights recovering, music just might be your saving grace!

:: Snacks

 Of course there will be food to be found at the hospital, but having a few of your favorite snacks on hand is always nice for both parents at any stage of the hospital stay.

:: Notebook/Journal

 Have a book set aside to record your birth story, feelings, gifts given, and hospital visitors.

:: Thank You Cards

You may find yourself with more time while you’re in the hospital to get through writing thank you notes than once you are home.   They are also nice to have on hand if you have a particular doctor or nurse you’d like to thank before leaving the hospital.

FOR BABY:

When it comes to baby, the hospital will provide essentially everything you need during your stay.  Here are a few items you’ll need to have on hand when you make that journey home from the hospital.

:: Swaddling/Receiving Blanket(s)

:: Soft, Warm Outfit for Baby to Travel Home In (see our Oilo Layette Sets here.)

:: Infant Car Seat

Looking for a way to shield baby while they are nestled in their car carrier that provides privacy, protection, and comfort? If a shield that serves this function, and makes a fashionable statement at the same time is what you’re after…then, Oilo Car Seat Canopies are your solution!

We’re delighted to introduce Oilo Car Seat Canopies as one of our many new products!  Available in Cobblestone-Taupe and Modern Berries- Spring Green, our canopies are designed to protect baby from sunlight, dust, germs, and the elements.  They are ride-ready for all standard baby carriers, lightweight, and secured by both Velcro and an elasticized band for maximum convenience and functionality.  Our canopies are breathable cotton fabric, and like all of our products, they are designed and fabricated in the U.S.A!

COBBLESTONE-TAUPE

MODERN BERRIES-SPRING GREEN

Oilo Car Seat Canopies are not only a wonderful essential to buy for your own little one, but make a wonderful gift as well!

Price: $59

Available to Order Now! (See Here)

Estimated Date of Availability: February 20, 2011.

 *Orders will be filled in the order they’re received…so ORDER NOW to get your Car Seat Canopy as soon as it becomes available.