The Best Baby Carriers, Swaddles, Toys & More

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hello & Happy Sunday!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

With only a few more weeks left with pregnancy I thought I would offer a round up of some of my favorite carriers, swaddles, toys and more! One of the main items I was most excited about was honestly these items. A good carrier can last, swaddles are imperative with newborns, and I love unique handmade toys as they become keepsakes that you hold onto for years to come. 

 

 

 

That being said I was curious as to the options that exist today. As a whole, the world of baby items has evolved since I was a child, so there are better products and we have much easier access to international brands where the quality tends to exceed that of any USA brands. 

 

From popular brands to the more niche brands, these are a handful of items I discovered and loved and why! Be sure to circle back in the fall for a recap on brand quality and what worked for us. 

 

 

 

Have you tried any of these products?!

Are there others that worked for you and your babe?!

I’d love to know!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The belief that products should improve the lives of those who use them is at the center of all we do at Lille Baby . The COMPLETE™ is our flagship carrier, the heart of our mission. Its innovative features began a babywearing comfort revolution that created the community we know and love today.

Learn more about the company here

 

 

Complete Air Flow

COMPLETE IN COMFORT, VERSATILITY, AND STYLE

Don’t let a warm climate get in the way of your cuddle time! The Airflow’s full-body breathable mesh design provides the maximum breezy comfort for your little one. Ready for all your summer adventures — from amusement parks to street fairs, it provides the ultimate in comfortable cool.

 

 

 

Dragonfly Wrap

Our innovative wrap features an easy-to-use design and comfortable back panel that allows you to be hands free no matter what your day throws at you. The Dragonfly wrap is made with all-natural fiber blend material to keep you and baby comfortable all day and will fit sizes 00 thru 24.

 

 

 

 

Eternal Love Ring Sling

NURTURE THE BOND BETWEEN YOU AND BABY

Our natural, 100% linen Ring Sling is lightweight, easy to use, and designed with elegantly-adorned rings to remind you of the incredible gift of love you are carrying. The versatility of this classic babywearing staple allows you to snuggle your little one close from birth through the toddler years, and is ideal for quick ups and downs and easy storage. Breathable, portable, and beautifully comfortable, it’s a timeless way to keep your little one close to your heart.

 

 

Why Lille Baby: Lille Baby was one of the first companies I discovered that really spoke to me. They offer an array of carrier options from the stpale ring sling to the more studier carriers, and even a wrap option with back support. Each design unique, innovative, and just ahead of the curve. The carriers come in various materials for different seasons which I loved, the ring sling offers additional storage for your items, and the wrap carrier appeared much more reliable given the back support. I’m excited to test these and see which one our babe loves most! Be sure to check back for a review on product quality this fall!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ABOUT SOLLY BABY INFANT WRAPS

 

 

MATERIAL: All of our wraps are custom-made from certified Lenzing modal, which is a lightweight, buttery soft and sustainable fabric sourced from the pulp of Austrian beechwood trees.

 

Learn more about Solly Baby here

 

 

 

  

 

 

Solly Wrap

• REDUCES INFANT CRYING BY 43%
• HELPS REDUCE POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION
• HIP HEALTHY CERTIFIED
• PROMOTES BONDING
• COMFORTABLE, CUSTOM FIT
• LIGHTWEIGHT & SILKY SOFT
• CALMS GAS & REFLUX
• HANDS FREE

 

 

 

 

 

 

Solly Sleeper

• NO HASSLE
  PULL-ON-STYLING
• LIGHTWEIGHT & SILKY SOFT
• HIGH WAIST TO WEAR ABOVE THE UMBILICAL STUMP
• IDEAL COMFORT AND STYLE FOR GOING HOME OUTFIT
• EASY WIDE NECK

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Why Solly Baby: One of the very first baby products I was excited to explore, was carriers! You can opt for the heavy duty kind or the lighter wrap options like SB, it just depends what type of activity you’ll be doing. As a FTM, I was interested to explore both options to see what what works best for us. SB offers everything from swaddles to carriers and even baby clothes. I loved the fact that they are made of 100% Certified Lenzing Modal, offer an array of neutral colors, and that they are a small business that truly cares about their customers. They also have great carrier tutorials and someone who handles that dept. full time to better help you navigate it all. Love their company! Review to come this fall. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Baby K’tan was founded in 2007 by the Chesal and Wernick families – two families who have been close friends for years. Both couples were raising a child with special needs, in addition to two other children. Wanting to carry their babies as much as possible and provide the nourishment they require for healthy development, each family experimented with different baby slings, carriers and baby wraps. Unsatisfied with the options on the market, they began creating different designs that combined style, ease of use, and comfort.

 

Learn more about the company here

 

 

Baby K’tan Original

 

Multiple Ergonomic Positions from Birth-35 lbs

Comfortably carry baby from birth to toddlerhood.  The Baby K’tan Original Cotton wrap offers 5 different wearing positions for the various ages and stages of baby’s development. Quickly switch between carrying positions without having to remove the K’tan wrap carrier.

 

Patented Design is Easy as 1-2-3

No wrapping, buckling or fussing with rings or snaps. The Baby K’tan Original Cotton wrap has a patented double-loop design that is quick and simple to put on and take off. Just slip the K’tan wrap over your head like a necklace and put one arm through each side.

• No hardware! No buckles, rings, snaps, or zippers
• Ergonomic positioning for healthy infant development
• Evenly distributes weight across back and shoulders
• Double-loop design slips on like a t-shirt
• 100% all-natural cotton baby carrier
• 5 wearing positions
• Carry newborns and infants from birth to 35lbs. (consult pediatrician for preemies)
• Machine washable and dryer safe
• Matching sash included

 

Get full tutorials on how to create each position here

 

 

  

 

 

Weekender Diaper Bag

 

Features:

 

Why Baby Kt’an: One company I heard a lot about in the realm of baby carriers was Baby K’tan. They offer and array of carriers, an organic option, and even innovative diaper bags at a solid price point. Many baby carriers can be upwards of $100+ or more, however, their pieces run about $60, which is wonderful. I’m excited to test this widely loved carrier and diaper bag and compare them to other brands on the market. Be sure to check back in the fall to receive a recap on product quality. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Suzi and Mel launched Storksak in 2003 because becoming a parent is daunting, you are thrust into a world you know nothing about. Reading book after book, blog after blog, listening to those that have trodden the path before you … there is a lot to take in. Suzi and Mel felt this way when they became mothers for the first time, so decided to start a business to give a little helping hand to new parents.

 

Learn more about the company here

 

Stevie Luxe Scuba Bag

 

Defined by its technical scuba shell with emboss front panel, accented by smooth leather trims and statement hardware details. The Stevie Luxe is perfectly proportioned, with adjustable side tabs to alter the size and look instantly. A wide opening into a spacious interior with multiple pockets for easy access to your safely stored essentials. Featuring a luxurious over-sized changing mat with pocket storage, insulated FAB bag and long detachable strap with integrated patented stroller straps.

 

 

Taylor Black Bag

Designed with all the function a modern parent needs. The Taylor is made from anti-fade canvas with real leather trim and a laminated base for extra durability.This lightweight style is created to be the most comfortable backpack you’ll wear thanks to the padded back panel and ergonomic padded straps with single pull adjuster. A gusseted extra wide opening ensures easy access to the main compartment, without having to rummage around for what you need. Paired with understated styling, the Taylor is the perfect unisex changing bag option.

 

 

Bundle of Joy Bamboo Towel Set

 

The perfect gift to welcome any new arrival, Storksak’s ‘Bundle of Joy’ gift set contains all the everyday essentials needed to keep baby clean, warm and snug. Each gift set includes a luxuriously soft multi-use muslin square, a large, breathable and versatile muslin swaddle blanket as well as a beautifully soft and absorbent hooded towel and matching washcloth to keep baby warm and dry. Beautifully presented in an illustrated gift box, each product features an elegant yellow and grey Raindot print.

 

 

 

Organic Nursing Shawl

 

Made from the most luxurious organic cotton, the Storksak nursing shawl is super soft and gentle for you and your baby’s skin. This ultimate, versatile maternity essential is designed to be stylish and functional yet offer complete discretion while breastfeeding. The side poppers allow you to transform your look with an easy transition from nursing shawl into a scarf, cape or poncho to wear anytime, anywhere. 

 

 

Why Stork Sak: I happened to stumble across this brand via Nordstroms and was excited to learn that they are based in the UK. In my experience I gravitate more towards items produced outside the U.S. and you could gauge the quality on the pictures alone. SS offers everything from modern fashion forward diaper bags, to nursing shawls and even organic baby bath towels. I had browsed the internet for diaper bags and many of the designs just blended together, while SS really stood out. Whether it was the material or design, I was instantly sold. They also offer a dad diaper bag that resembles the Mac bag my husband has, which I loved. I’m excited to see how these work for us and report back. Be sure to stop by in the fall for a full recap on product quality. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

There isn’t a ton of information on the inception of Milk Snob, but you can check out here if you’re unable to read the above images. 

 

Introducing the Milk Snob® ORGANIC COLLECTION, the same multi-functional Milk Snob® Cover you know and love, now handcrafted from organic bamboo spandex fabric.

 

 

 

 

We’re Kirsten and Sam, a husband and wife team and founders of Parker Baby Co. When we had twins in 2015, we quickly realized how our home would soon be filled with baby products. What we didn’t realize was that many of those products would be of our own designs under our own brand.

 

Learn more about the company here

 

 

Rope Diaper Caddy

You change a lot of diapers – organization and flexibility is important. Ease the process with Parker Baby’s functional, modern and stylish Rope Diaper Caddy.

• Stylish neutral design
• Three inner compartments for organization
• Durable and portable for any environment

Our rope diaper changing caddy is perfect in the car, for nursery storage, as a pumping station or for a diaper organizer on every level of your home.

 

 

Rope Storage Basket

Our rope storage basket is stylish and functional nursery decor and a storage solution that is modern and practical. The two-tone rope storage basket is great for nursery or playroom storage, but also stylish enough for your family room or bedroom. Whether it is holding toys, blankets or even clothes, this basket is the perfect fit.

 

Why Parker Baby: I had stumbled up PB while browsing diaper bags and loved their designs and the fact that they are a small business. In addition to the bags they also offer fabulous woven diaper bags and storage to accent your nursery in addition to baby bibs and more. In addition to their great designs, I loved the competitive pricing. These caddy/bin options are triple via most retailers, making them such a great find! Be sure to check back in the fall for a full review. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“When your baby’s so soapy and slippery and squirmy and when you’re trying to bend over a tub or keep them in place in the sink – frankly, it just takes a lot of the enjoyment out of a moment that should be such a great time” Morelock said.

 

Together, the four fathers co-founded the new company Blooming Bath. And after more than a year of hard work, they rolled out their first product: Blooming Bath. The flower-shaped bath pillow conforms to the shape of any sink – and keeps those little wiggle worms right where they belong. It’s durable, easy to clean and unbelievably adorable.

 

Learn more about the company here

 

 

 

 

 

The Blooming Bath Lotus is the most luxurious and premium bath ever! It has an elegant design, features four petals and a thinner foam. Why would anyone want to bathe their baby in a hard plastic tub when they could surround their little one in the cuddly softness of an adorable plush flower?

 

Original: Handmade from the softest polyester plush materials we could find, the Blooming Bath’s petals conform to any sink to cradle and protect baby for a safe, comfortable and fun bathing experience. No more kneeling at the edge of the tub or nervously juggling a slippery baby. The Blooming Bath makes bath time adorably fun for everyone.

 

The Blooming Bath for babies comes in several adorable color options and is recommended for newborns and babies up 6 months. Once bath time is over, simply squeeze out excess water and place in the dryer for 10-15 minutes, or hang dry using the hangtag on the back.

 

The Blooming Bath Lotus is a new wider contoured shaped petals opposed to 7 petals on the original Blooming Bath. These wider petals create a safe seat that cradles baby like no other bath can. Learn more about the product here

 

Why Blooming Bath: Oh my goodness, how could you not instantly fall in love with this concept and design! After browsing various infant bath options, it was plain to see that their still remains to be a lack of modern designs. They were either plastic, or loud, or just terrible altogether. When I saw this concept I was intrigued as it’s fun, modern, soft, can be used in a sink, and you can simply throw in a dryer. You just want to ensure that you do dry it out to prevent the formation of mold, but that’s one extra step for a much better experience with washing your babe. I’m excited to test both these models out and report back with what worked for us. Be sure to check back in the fall. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Blabla was created in 2001 by us, Susan Pritchett and Florence Wetterwald, two good friends with the same philosophy of life and beauty.

 

While visiting Peru, we came across entire villages of expert knitters who had been keeping the tradition alive for generations. Inspired by their talent and the incredible quality and softness of Peruvian cotton, we decided to start our own compay of cuddly knitted products for children. Joseph, Flo’s husband, joined us a couple of years later.

 

Learn more about their company here

Browse all their dolls here

I sampled the Honey the Bunny and the Licorice the Dog

 

Why BlaBla Kids: Believe it or not, even today there is a lack of handmade toy options for babies today. I find that the quality is better in terms of design and materials, they are keepsakes, and I prefer them over other commonplace options. BlaBla kids has been around for a generous amount of time and was actually one of the firsts to pursue the handmade doll options. Given all of the above, their fabulous unique designs, and that they are based in my hometown of Georgia, I was excited to explore BlaBla kids! Be sure to check back for a recap on product quality in the fall. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our philosophy at Maileg is a well-made, adorable toy that will last. Our toys are always limited release and will become collectibles. We believe children thrive with simpler toys rather than plastic. Fewer, better made toys open their minds to new stories and innovative ways to play which will serve them well thru life.

 

Learn more about the company here

 

Grey Rhino

Meet our Safari friend Grey ‚ Rhino. Unlike most Rhinos, Grey ‚ does not like to charge towards people ‚ but rather cuddle up with you. Grey ‚ is delicate inside and out and even has a cute checkered pattern on the inside of its ears.. so sweet! It is not everyday you can get this close to a Rhino ‚ so take this one home!

 

Panda

Introducing a new Maileg favorite! This Panda Bear is very lovable and likes to cuddle. A Panda Bear likes to fill it’s tummy up so make sure you purchase food for this one when you take it home!

 

 

Pig

Introducing Noah’s friends! These cute little Maileg buddies are the perfect baby gift and a great way to teach children about Noah and his animals. Collect all these adorable pals and store them in Noah’s Ark!

 

 

 

Elephant

Introducing Noah’s friends! These cute little Maileg buddies are the perfect baby gift and a great way to teach children about Noah and his animals. Collect all these adorable pals and store them in Noah’s Ark!

 

 

Why Maileg: This company is based outside the U.S. and their designs are diverse and just unique with every detail. Even with the online images you can gauge the quality and I loved the neutral colors they used to provide a more vintage look and feel. In addition to these designs they also offer an array of other toy options. I can’t wait to explore more of Maileg as our babe grows! Be sure to check back for a recap on product quality this fall. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cheengoo specializes in a line of modern, hand-crafted toys and accessories for infants and young children. Our products are handmade ethically using natural materials: either maple wood, bamboo, or cotton. Cheengoo toys are first imagined in San Francisco and then brought to life by our international team of skilled artisans from Nepal, Latvia and China.

 

NATURAL MATERIALS

Our crocheted rattles and dolls are made using luxuriously soft yarn derived from the pulp of the organically grown (Ecocert certified) and sustainably (FSC certified) harvested bamboo trees. Bamboo is the world’s fastest growing plant – growing 40+ inches in only 24 hours, making it one of the most environmentally sustainable & renewable resources.

 

Learn more about Cheengo here

 

Veggie Set

 

The inviting texture and bright colors of these rattles makes them fun for baby and older kids, too. This adorable veggie rattle set is lovingly hand-crocheted using luxuriously soft yarn derived from the pulp of the organically grown and sustainably harvested bamboo trees. Bamboo is the world’s fastest growing plant . 

 

 

 

Fawn Rattle

 

This adorable Fawn Rattles are hand crocheted using luxuriously soft yarn derived from the pulp of the organically grown and sustainably harvested bamboo trees. 

 

 

Bunny Ring Hand Crocheted Rattle

This soft and sweet little Bunny is looking for a new friend. This easy to grasp ring rattle is lovingly hand-crocheted using luxuriously soft yarn derived from the pulp of the organically grown and sustainably harvested bamboo trees. 

 

 

 

 

Mini Doll – Bailey the Bunny

Meet Bailey the Bunny. He is a sweet, super soft and cuddly mini doll made entirely by hand with soft yarn derived from the pulp of the organically grown and sustainably harvested bamboo trees.

 

 

 

 

Crocheted Donut Rattle Set

This set of three donut rattles are soft, richly textured and colorful, making them a perfect play things for babies and older siblings. Serve them up in pretend tea parties and watch the little minds’ imagination soar.

 

 

Why Cheengo: This company mainly distributes thru many boutiques and online retailers, but their designs are just so precious. From rattles to teethers, bunny and food designs, there is truly something for every baby. These items are handmade, are made to last, and have a great price point. I’m sure you’ll be seeing them a lot on IG and I hope our babe loves them as much as we do! Be sure to check back for a review on product quality in the fall. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Babies, toddlers and children smile with wonder at the cute Pebble Kids designs and quirky expressions, parents smile at the joy of watching their little ones and knowing that their purchase also helped a family a long way away, and the Hathay Bunano artisans smile knowing that they have sustainable, regular and flexible employment and a chance to give their own children a better life.

 

Check out all their fruit and veggie designs here

Pebble products are made entirely by hand with natural materials and as such there will be slight variations in size, colour and design in line with the unique nature of this product. Materials: 100% cotton with 100% polyester fill.

 

I sampled the Toadstool Rattle, Apple Rattle, Pineapple Rattle, Pumpkin Rattle, and the Donut Rattle.

 

 

Why Pebble Kids: Like Cheengo, this company also distributes more through boutiques and retailers, but I loved their designs. They have endless rattle categories, are extremely affordable, organic options, and there is something for every babe! I’m excited to see if our babe loves these as much as we do! Be sure to check back in the fall for a review on product quality.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

At Cuddle & Kind We’re a family of five on a mission to help feed children in need. There’s nothing we love more than being parents. We think nurturing our three children is the most important, rewarding and sometimes challenging job in the world!

 

 

Learn more about Cuddle+Kind here

Learn more about how they give back here

 

 

  

 

 

Sebastian the Lamb

 

1 doll provides 10 meals to children in North America and around the world

 

FABRIC + FEATURES:

• hand knit with premium 100% cotton yarn
• high stitch count for durability and softness
• premium felt and knit details
• stuffed with hypoallergenic polyfill to be the ideal cuddle weight
• safe + non-toxic: US + Canadian safety standard certified
• available in two sizes: little 13″ and regular 20″ in height
• signature 10 meal wristband
• handmade in Peru using sustainable, fair trade practices

 

 

Why Cuddle + Kind: If there is one company you’ll see endlessly on social media, it’s CK. They offer an array of handmade dolls that are not only unique and gorgeous, but with each sale a portion of the profits goes towards feeding children in other countries. I loved their designs, the company mission, and the marketing behind the brand. That being said, I had to explore Ck! You can gauge the quality of their designs in the images alone. I’m excited to report back on product quality this fall and start a CK collection for our babe!