A local sling manufacturer, however, opposed the warning, saying it could hurt her business and argued the slings are safe if used properly.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission said slings have been associated with at least 14 infant deaths over the last 20 years. Most of the babies who died were under four months old and had either a low birth weight, were born prematurely, or had breathing issues such as a cold, the commission reported.

Slings are made from cloth and wrap around a parent's body, allowing them to carry a baby close on the chest, back, or hip.

The commission said the slings pose a suffocation hazard. The fabric can block a baby's breathing, resulting in death within a minute, it reported. And if the sling keeps the baby in a curled position, the airway can be restricted, rendering the baby unable to cry while suffocation occurs, the commission said.

It recommended that parents and caregivers who use a sling make sure the baby's face is visible, the chin upright, and that the baby isn't pressed up against the body. Babies should be checked frequently, it added.

Kristi Hayes, who manufactures and sells slings as part of her Berwick, Maine-based Gypsy Mama company, said that while she is "deeply saddened" by the sling-associated deaths, the products are safe and superior to alternatives such as baby carriages and strollers.

"They're an ancient practice that has been around since the dawn of time," she said.

She said slings are a more ergonomical and intimate baby-carrying method, with both physical and mental benefits. She said slings support a baby's neck and spine more than a stroller and help regulate breathing and body temperature. She said they also help a parent develop a closer bond with the baby, and vice-versa.

When babies lie on their backs in baby carriages and strollers, Hayes said it can cause "container syndrome" — a pediatric condition where a baby's motor skills and mental health are inhibited.

She said she's never had a parent express concern about a sling she's sold.

But after the commission's warning, she said she is concerned about its effect on her business — and the sling business as a whole.

"The industry may see a backlash," she said. "It's important for consumers to understand that slings are not only safe, but provide so many benefits."

The commission said it is currently developing a safety standard for all slings.

Also find great deals on nursery bedding, baby carriers and slings, car seats and strollers. We provide information and reviews and many baby products.

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When a high-end baby stroller company recalled about one million strollers Monday after reports children’s fingers were being amputated on the hinges, some parents panicked, and at least one personal-injury lawyer started looking for clients.

Maclaren USA, Inc., a popular British baby buggy company whose strollers typically retail for more than $125, issued a voluntary recall of nine models after receiving 12 reports of children amputating their fingertips on stroller hinges while caretakers were folding or unfolding the strollers.

Even The Law Offices of James Sokolove, known for ubiquitous TV and radio ads offering support to mishap and accident victims, offered victims of stroller-related injuries legal assistance through its Web site and by advertising on Google.

But Sheri Gurock, co-founder and owner of the Magic Beans baby and toddler gear store, which has locations in Hingham, Brookline and Wellesley, said parents have little reason to worry.

“(The panic) is completely unwarranted,” Gurock said.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, about 1 million Maclaren strollers were sold from 1999 to November 2009. In that time, only 15 people have reported children hurting themselves on the hinges.

“The language of the recall is very scary,” Gurock said. “As a parent you see the word ‘amputation’ and you can’t read anything else, you’re just stuck on that word, but it’s such an unlikely scenario.”

Children’s fingers will be safe if parents and caretakers make sure the strollers are locked into the open position before letting children near them, she said.
Gurock’s stores sell eight of nine recalled models, which range in price from $79.99 for a car seat frame to $379.99 for a double stroller, according to the company’s Web site.

Though the recall was for Maclaren strollers only, Gurock said parents should watch their children’s hands when around any umbrella stroller as well as door hinges and other folding objects.

Magic Beans stores removed Maclaren strollers from display racks after they heard of the recall Monday, Gurock said. On Thursday, after retrofitting all the strollers with plastic hinge covers to protect stray hands, Gurock decided to begin selling the strollers again.
“We sold two Maclaren strollers,” she said. “People are being reasonable about this.”

THE FACTS:
How kids get hurt: When caretakers do not ensure the strollers are locked in the open position before placing their children in them, kids can poke their fingers into the hinges and get hurt when the caretaker pushes the stroller down to lock it.
Strollers sold since 1999:
About 1 million.

Children injured by strollers since 1999: 15 – three lacerations, 12 amputations.

What parents can do: Order free plastic hinge covers at recall.maclaren.us/order.php; Make sure strollers are locked in the open position before inserting child.

Affected models: Volo, Triumph, Quest Sport, Quest Mod, Techno XT, TechnoXLR, Twin Triumph, Twin Techno and Easy Traveller.

Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Sheri Gurock

___ Diapers – Remember, you can never have enough diapers. Pack one for each hour you’ll be traveling and then throw in a few more, just in case!

___ Diaper changing pad – If your diaper bag doesn’t already come with one, you can pick up disposable or inexpensive pads at most supermarkets or baby stores.

___ Plastic bags for storage – These will come in handy when it comes to time to store dirty diapers and clothes.

___ Diaper rash cream
___ Baby wipes/Tissues
___ Travel-size bottles of baby wash, lotion, and antibacterial hand gel
___ Extra pacifiers (if baby uses one)
___ Clothes, socks, and booties/shoes
___ Washable bibs
___ Formula, water, or juice (depending on baby)

___ Snacks for you and baby – In case your trip is delayed and you both need something to munch on.

___ Extra bottles, nipples, and/or sippy cups (depending on baby’s age)

___ Breast pump (if used)

___ Bra pads (if used)

___ Nightlight – For those middle-of-the-night changes

___ First-aid kit – Always have one on hand with pain relievers safe for baby and supplies to treat minor injuries.

___ Sling or front carrier – An easy and hands-free way to tote baby around when you’re on the go.

___ Play center/crib/bouncer – A lightweight and portable play center or bouncer is perfect for both play time or nap time.

___ Inflatable baby bathtub – You’ll be glad you brought it when it comes time to wash baby

___ Car seat – Remember, car seats can also be used on planes

___ Collapsible stroller -- A lightweight stroller will be easy to store in the back of your car or in overhead compartments on a train or plane.

The basics of online auctions
If you're looking to get your baby necessities at a discount, and you don't have time to browse endless yard sales, online auctions may just be the answer for you! eBay is the largest online auction site, currently controlling 85% of the market.

How does it work? Individuals -- people just like you and me -- place items up for bid online. They provide a description, a photo, a starting bid, and an end time/date for the auction of that item to close. Sellers may also set a "reserve price" on their auctions -- the lowest price at which a seller is willing to sell an item. This price is not disclosed to bidders and is at the discretion of the owner. However, if your bid does not both exceed the reserve price and is not the high bid, you will not get your item. Much more information is provided on the sites -- check out their online FAQs and help sections.

Don't Overbid -- or underbid
The San Francisco Chronicle published an article about the popularity of online auctions -- and how they're very profitable for sellers. They wrote, "...traders say they get higher prices at auctions than at swap meets or collectibles shows because bidding generates excitement." So while you're gaining access to a huge variety of goods, keep in mind that sometimes old-fashioned yard sales, secondhand stores and swap meets may save you more money.

Do your research beforehand -- including prices for what you want to buy new -- and don't overbid, or else you defeat the purpose of buying used (particularly when you factor in shipping costs). Set a limit on how much you're willing to spend before you get carried away.

As a side note, keep in mind that these products are coming from households across the country, so there may be some products you can't find in local stores. One mom I know picked up a gorgeous French stroller online -- something she couldn't have obtained almost any other way. She was one of the few bidders, because not many people had heard of the brand. (She made sure her bids were fair, however, because she knew the owners had paid several hundred dollars for it originally.)

What not to buy -- or to be wary of
If you're buying any sort of baby equipment or clothing, check the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Web site for any recall information before you buy. As a rule of thumb, don't buy baby items more than ten years old -- many new safety standards have been implemented in the past few years. The Danny Foundation recommends carefully evaluating a crib more than two years old -- and on any crib you buy, make sure all the parts are there and nothing has worn out. (See a list of Crib Dangers here.)
Never buy a car seat secondhand, unless you're certain it has never been in an accident. A crash weakens the structure of a seat, making it unsafe for your child -- and useless in the event of another crash.

Selling your stuff
You can also market your own used items (or anything else!) online! Commissions range from 1.25 to 5 percent, depending on the company you use and the sales price -- check out the competition and then go test the waters! It's a fun way to clean out your house or to get something for old baby clothes, maternity wear, toys and other household knicknacks you no longer need.

Strollers can be a parent's best friend, but choosing the wrong baby stroller could spell trouble and inconvenience. How can parents choose the right baby stroller from the many available in stores and via the Internet? Strollers are available to match just about any lifestyle, so think about how you want to use the stroller first and then look at strollers that best fit your life and your baby.

Safety Features Are Important For Strollers
As always, baby's safety is the biggest concern. Check strollers for stability before buying, and don't forget to see if the stroller will remain upright with a diaper bag hanging over the handles! Also check the stroller harness. A five-point harness is best, especially for infants or babies who are in the stroller a lot. For occasional mall trips, a three-point harness might be OK. Look for pinch points and sharp corners, too.

Stroller Wheels and Handles
Walk your favorite strollers through the store before making a purchase. Check the height of the handles to be sure they are comfortable for you. Taller parents should look for strollers with adjustable handle heights so they don't have to stoop. Choose a stroller that makes corners smoothly, especially if you'll use it in crowded places. Also try walking with the strollers at a faster pace to be sure your feet don't hit the wheels. Foam-covered handles are a nice choice for comfort.

Check Out Strollers Convenience Features
Do you need a stroller with a basket underneath, or will you carry the diaper bag elsewhere? Some strollers come with parent organization trays, toy bars, snack and drink holders, rain hoods and more. Many of these accessories are available separately, so don't let the lack of a drink holder sway you away from strollers you otherwise love. How the stroller folds and how much trunk space it may take are important considerations. Be sure you can fold, unfold and store the stroller easily!

Lightweight Strollers
Lightweight strollers have come a long way from the old umbrella stroller. This new generation of strollers under 20 pounds have many of the same features as larger strollers, such as reclining seats, storage baskets and sun shades. These strollers are great for travelers and perfect for trips to the mall or zoo. Inexpensive umbrella strollers are still a great, economical choice to be stashed in the trunk as a spare, but those without a reclining seat can't be used with infants who can't sit up on their own.

• Top Lightweight Strollers

Standard Strollers
Larger and heavier than lightweight strollers, standard strollers often feature roomier seats, larger wheels, more storage space and extras like built-in music systems and ergonomic handles. Standard strollers perform well in most conditions, and many parents love these versatile wonders. For travelers, these strollers do fold, often with nice one-hand mechanisms, but they take up more trunk space and are heavier to lift in and out. Larger strollers may be hard to handle in crowded places.
• Top Standard Strollers

Jogging Strollers
Outdoorsy parents may want to consider a jogging stroller, as a backup for a standard stroller or even as an everyday stroller. Featuring large, sturdy tires, sleek frames, hand-grip brakes and all-terrain suspension systems, jogging strollers perform well on almost any surface. Jogging strollers may not fold as easily or as flat as other strollers, meaning there may be better everyday choices for parents who travel a lot. Jogging strollers are not recommended for infants under 6 months old.

• Top Three-Wheel Strollers

Travel Systems
Travel systems offer convenience for busy new parents. A travel system begins with a standard stroller, but includes an infant car seat that snaps onto the stroller, allowing parents to move the infant from car to stroller easily. Most travel systems come with a car seat base that stays in the car so that parents just snap the infant seat into the base rather than buckling/unbuckling the seat into the car. Once the infant seat is outgrown, travel systems perform the same as standard strollers.

• Buying a Travel System Stroller
• Stroller Frames Vs. Travel System Strollers
• Best Travel System Strollers

Strollers for More Than One Child
If you have more than one child, strollers with extra capacity can make outings easier. Consider the children's ages when choosing a stroller for multiples. Some double strollers have space for a child to stand and ride, but this doesn't allow for in-stroller naps. Other models have seats for all riders. Choose seats that recline for younger riders. Also consider this versatile option - clip two lightweight strollers together with stroller clips, which also lets you use the strollers separately.

The following is a look at five trends in baby gear. The trends change every year, but the one thing that is not changing is that babies need a lot of stuff.

Chairs: It used to be that babies needed a bouncer chair, a high chair, and that was about it. Today there is the Bumbo, which is a chair designed for kids ages 3-6 months. It is formed to fit a baby's contours and be extremely supportive of them. There are more elaborate bouncy chairs, and high chairs that grow with your child. However, in addition to that one of the big trends is sling chairs. Instead of a sling that you wear that your baby sits in, it is a sling that goes around a chair, and supports your baby so that they can sit no matter where you are as long as there is a chair around.

Organic cotton clothing: One of the new things in baby gear is that of going organic. Organic cottons are the trend. They are supposed to be better for baby's skin, and of course good for the environment, and so you can find manufacturers that sell organic everything for baby, from undershirts and leggings, to crib sheets, and mattress pads.

Stroller systems: A trend in baby gear this year is that of stroller systems. Stroller systems are basically a stroller and a car seat that go together, and that the car seat can snap into or lock into the stroller so that you can push your baby around the shopping mall, or on a walk while they are still nice and snug in their car seat carrier. These systems also sometimes convert, or are changeable so that you can adjust them as your child gets older to fit their new needs. There are sit and stand stroller systems, etc. In addition, there are stroller systems that come in all colors and designs to fit your needs and wants.

More natural colors: In 2007 the big trend in baby gear color was pink or blue depending on the gender of your baby. Today the trend has moved away from the pinks and blues and bright primary colors, and is now more earth tones and neutrals. The natural colors such as greens, browns, and yellows are the new thing for all baby gear. Infant carriers are often neutral with rich earth tones. Crib sets are often greens, browns, or browns combined with pinks, turquoise, green, etc. The more natural the color, and the more mature the color palette, the more trendy it is.

Slings: Because you take your baby with you wherever you go, there is always a baby gear trend that has to do with carrying your baby. For a long time the trend was the baby bijorn backpacks, but this year the "Sling" is the popular baby carrier of choice. The reason? It is easy to take with you, easy to set up (as opposed to the many straps and clasps of a baby backpack), and it is washable. In addition, many women have found that they can nurse while wearing it, and adjust it or their baby as needed. It can be worn various ways, so if your baby is asleep you can cradle them, if they are awake, you can carry them more like backpack style.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Beverly_Frank

The Valco Ion by Valco Baby will not disappoint. Available in a single or double version, the Ion is a very cool design. The egg shaped frame maximizes the interior space, while providing strength to the very light chassis.

The Ion is a great option for traveling with kids with its super light weight frame, huge, expandable canopy, and a huge basket. The Ion also has an option to purchase a car seat adapter and is compatible with several universal car seats. The one click easy fold truly is breeze, not to mention that it can easily be rolled while folded.

One other great feature that makes this a great stroller for traveling with kids is the tires. They are foam filled, so they are more durable than plastic wheels, but you won't have to worry about a flat tire when traveling.

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Here's a checklist of what you should have on hand before your baby arrives.

Tooling around
_____Car seat.
_____Stroller.

Beds and linens
_____Crib.
_____Crib mattress.
_____Bassinet/cradle (if you don't want to put your baby in
a crib right away).
_____Two to three fitted crib sheets.
_____Four or more waffle-weave cotton receiving blankets
for swaddling baby
_____Two mattress pads.
_____One to two waterproof liners (for crib or bassinet).

Diaper duty
_____Diapers. Disposable or cloth.
_____Diaper pail. (Optional with disposables.)
_____Diaper bag.

Dressing baby
_____Four sleeping outfits or onesies (one-piece sleepers),
preferably with attached feet
_____Six side-snap T-shirts.
_____Four to six one-piece undershirts that snap around the
crotch.
_____A small baby cap (although the hospital will probably
give you one).
_____Six pairs socks/booties.
_____Two to three soft, comfortable daytime outfits. Get
only a few items in newborn size. Then, go for
clothing in the 6-month size--your baby will grow
into it quickly. But don't buy baby sleepwear that's
too big; it's a fire hazard
_____Cotton sweater or light jacket.

Summer babies
_____Brimmed hat.

Winter babies
_____Snowsuit or heavy bunting.
_____Heavy stroller blanket.
_____Warm knit hat.

Feeding time
If you're planning to breast-feed:
_____Two or three nursing bras.
_____A box of washable or disposable breast pads.
_____Breast pump if you expect to use one.
_____Four small baby bottles with newborn nipples for
expressed breast milk
_____Bottle drying tree.
_____Bottle brush.
_____Insulated bottle holder for diaper bag (the hospital may
give you one).
_____Three packs of cloth diapers or burp cloths.

If you're planning to bottle-feed
_____Six 4- to 5-ounce bottles, plus nipples, rings, and a
dishwasher basket if you use a dishwasher.

Bathing/grooming
_____Three soft hooded towels.
_____Two packs of baby washcloths.
_____ Baby body wash that doubles as shampoo.
_____Pair of blunt-tip scissors or baby-sized nail clippers.
_____Zinc-oxide-based diaper rash ointment.
_____Infant bathtub.
_____Soft brush and comb.
_____Mild laundry detergent.

Medicine chest essentials
_____A pain-and-fever reducer recommended by your baby's
doctor, such as Infant's Tylenol.
_____Cotton pads/swabs.
_____Nasal aspirator.
_____Digital thermometer.
_____Rubbing alcohol.
_____Petroleum jelly.

Keeping baby happy
_____Pacifiers.

Extras: Nice but optional
_____Monitor.
_____Changing table.
_____A rocker or glider.
_____Soft carrier.
_____Swing.