Spring is in the air, and there’s no sweeter way to celebrate the season than to visit a local farm and pick berries (be sure to see if they participate in a CSA box while you’re at it). Visiting the farms and learning where our food comes from is a great way to spend the day and enjoy the fresh-off-the-vine sweet treats. So read on for how to navigate the u-pick scene in San Diego and make some delicious memories!
Looking for fields of juicy red strawberries? Then this is your farm! We are berry pleased to say that Farmer Kenny's main crop is strawberries. Hunt for the biggest red berries your littles can find.
Kenny's is open from now until July, and this season they require reservations to go strawberry picking at their farm. Click here to make a reservation and learn about the process of visiting the farm.
Please be sure to respect social distancing while at the farm, remain patient with others, and stay together as a family. They have 7 acres of beautiful strawberry rows, so finding space shouldn't be a problem, and they encourage you to spread out.
Buckets for berries are $17 per large and $7 per small.
Head out to Tanaka Farms to pick some sweet strawberries and enjoy a wagon ride around the farm to learn about the importance of farming. You must register with the exact number of guests and a time to enjoy berry picking. $20 per person (kids two and under are free) includes the wagon tour, one fresh veggie picked from the fields, unlimited strawberries off the vine, one quart of strawberries to take home, plus the petting zoo and loads of photo op spots!
5380 3/4 University Dr. Irvine, CA 949-653-2100 Online: tanakafarms.com
Located in Carlsbad, this fourth-generation, family-run U-pick farm is one of the oldest in San Diego County––they've been growing strawberries for over half a century. Go for the ocean view, cool breezes, and bountiful strawberries. If you walk further down the row, you may find even juicier red ones.
The fields are now open every day (weather dependant) 9 a.m.-5 p.m through July. If rain is in the forecast, call 760-603-9608 to make sure they are open. Wear shoes you don't mind getting dirty as it can get muddy. Also available are the corn maze and tractor ride. Food vendors are on-site on the weekends.
Strawberry picking fees:
$5 field admission per person (admits you to strawberry picking area without the bucket).
$12 per person/bucket (about 2 lbs. of strawberries)––kids five and younger are free.
Like a bolt from the blue, 9-acres of blueberries will be ripe for the picking! This family-owned and operated farm in Temecula is a berry gorgeous destination. Pick a bucket full of blueberries, and you’ve got a memorable afternoon. The blueberry-picking season is short, so the earlier in the season you get there, the better the pickings. Come early or later in the day, as it gets hot in the valley.
U-pick sessions will begin in May (exact date TBD) and will be open Sat. and Sun. from 7 a.m.- 7 p.m. and Monday mornings if there is still ripe fruit available.
Check their website or Facebook page to make sure they're open before heading out.
Prices for the picking containers are: Small $5 Medium $10 Large $20
Good to know: Farm accepts cash or checks only.
39700 Cantrell Rd. Temecula, CA 92591 951-225-5552 Online: temeculaberryco.com
A trip to Julian is always fun, but a trip that includes berry picking is even better! Julian Farm and Orchard is the new kid on the block in the u-pick world and will be open for berry picking beginning in June. The farm also has a petting zoo, axe throwing, tractor-pulled hayrides, and tons of photo spots.
Open Saturdays and Sundays 10-4 pm. Text 951-313-0166 for berry updates. Admission is $10 per person (kids under 2 are free) and includes ten activity tickets to use on the hayride, axe throwing, or petting zoo.
Insiders Tip: Julian Mining Company is under the same ownership and is located across the street, so plan to make a day out of your visit.
Is your family drowning in stuff? We’ve all been there when our closets have been full, drawers were overflowing, and our garages hadn’t seen a car parked in there in years. Where did all of this stuff come from, and how do you get rid of it? While it does take some time, it is doable, and there are lots of nearby places to donate used toys, clothes and kid gear that are taking up much-needed space at your place. Here’s what you need to know.
Where to Start
If you already know what items need to go, you’re off to a great start. If not, it’s recommend that you go from room to room with three boxes or containers marked: “To Keep”, “To Throw Away” and “To Donate.” Tackle those piles by putting items in the appropriate box. You might need to make some tough decisions on what not to keep, but experts suggest that if you haven’t used it in over a year, it’s time to toss it.
Where to Donate
Goodwill
Goodwill Industries
Seattle Goodwill provides job training and education to help individuals overcome barriers to employment. They offer 30 donation centers making it really easy for families bringing in pre-sorted used goods. If you'd like to give new life to toys, clothes and other small items, this is the spot to do it. The process is pretty quick during the week, but you might experience a longer wait time during the weekend, so plan accordingly.
What used items to donate: Right now, Goodwill is taking clothing, accessories, shoes, toys, sporting goods, books (and other media), household appliances and items. Most locations are accepting furniture donations, but not all, so be sure to check the list before you go.
Did you know food stamps don't cover diapers? Westside Baby provides diapers, clothing and other critical items to children and families throughout King County. In 2021, Westside Baby saw record-high need. They responded by distributing 2.5 million diapers, 1,600 car seats and over 2,000 bags of clothes. Consider helping out a new baby by adding a box of new diapers and wipes to your donation. Westside Baby has two drop-off locations that you can schedule a donation online. Drop-off locations are at South Lake Union on Mondays and White Center on Wednesdays, both from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
What used items to donate: Diapers, wipes, hygiene items (baby wash/shampoo, etc.), infant bathtubs, potty chairs, bouncy seats, winter clothing (especially 0-6 months), books, toys, shoes, bottles, baby-wearing carriers and diaper bags.
What NEW items to donate: Socks, underwear and formula (especially Similac).
Note: Westside Baby will not accept expired car seats and are not collecting furniture, changing tables, "exersaucers" or baby swings.
10002 14th Ave. S.W. Seattle, WA 98146 206-767-1662
Simply put, Habitat for Humanity helps low-income families build their own homes and restore dignity. Their Habitat ReStores are home improvement stores that accept small and large donations of new or gently used furniture, appliances, housewares, building materials and more. Proceeds from the sales of these items help Habitat’s work in your community and around the world. Habitat ReStore staff and volunteers make the donation process as simple as possible. You can always donate goods in person, and many Habitat ReStores offer free pickup of large items. There is one very large ReStore in Tukwila near Southcenter.
Seattle-King County ReStore 1185 Andover Park W. Tukwila, WA98188 888-507-7078
With thrift stores similar to the Goodwill, St. Vincent de Paul also serves the community by running a food bank, programs for Veterans, basic health assessments, language and social services to the Hispanic community in King County and a case management program and call center to help individuals access social services. The charity is currently accepting donations at the Georgetown Kent, Kenmore, Burien, and Renton locations. Donations can be given Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. (However, the Georgetown location does not accept donations on Saturdays). Make sure your items are in sellable condition—no rips, tears, stains or big scratches. When you arrive, you'll be asked to place your donation in wire-framed boxes, and you can download an e-receipt online for donations over $250.
What used items to donate: They're currently accepting clothing, electronic items and household items. Everything needs to be in good working order. Hard surface furniture donations (tables, wooden chairs, desks, etc.) our being accepted at the Kent, Kenmore, Burien, and Renton locations only.
Eastside Baby Corner provides direct assistance to local families challenged by job loss, homelessness, medical crisis and poverty. Each year they provide more than 8,000 clothing bags (each with a week's wardrobe) and more than 1,324 car seats to local families, keeping children safe and families comforted in their time of greatest need. Your donations won't gather dust here; items are matched to deserving families within a week of the item being requested.
What used items to donate: Clothing for children (birth through size 14), maternity clothing, baby gear, shoes, bottles, toys, diapers (new or opened packages), school supplies and books, blankets, bedding, towels, bicycles, and more. Check their website for the complete list of items.
Most needed items: Boy’s clothing: size 12-14, children’s pants sizes 2T-14, shoes (boy’s size 7C – 1Y and girl’s size 8C – 1Y), umbrellas, baby monitors, safety gates, safety locks, pajamas, towels, bedding (especially queen sheets and comforters of all sizes) and infant fleece blanket sleepers size NB-9 mos.
Note: EBC does not accept walkers with wheels, used nipples or pacifiers or those made in China, crib bumpers, open food or formula packages, flat fabric slings, sleep wedge, oral medication, toys with magnets, teethers containing gel or liquid, or made with wood, amber, marble or silicone. Other Items not accepted include toys bigger than a school backpack, adult clothing (except for maternity), ski equipment, electric breast pumps, humidifier/vaporizers, furniture, large train tables and stuffed animals longer than 12 inches. When in doubt, give them a call.
1510 N.W. Maple St. Issaquah, WA 98027 425-865-0234
This standout organization's mission is to "give foster kids a childhood and a future." Among the myriad of services Treehouse provides to youth in the foster care system is an awesome warehouse filled to the brim with new and like-new clothing, shoes, toys, school supplies and books. This is where the kids can go "shopping" (everything is free) for what they want and need. This is a particularly great choice if along with your toy donation, you have a fashion-conscious tween (or toddler for that matter) who has outgrown their stylish brands.
What used items to donate: Infant/toddler, kids and young adult clothing, shoes and basic accessories, luggage, books, toys and games.
What NEW items to donate: Socks, underwear, bras, swimwear, blankets, stuffed animals, school supplies (including lunch boxes and backpacks), hygiene items (including diapers and baby wipes), bikes, scooters and skateboards. Other ways to donate can be found online.
Note: Treehouse will not accept items that are worn and/or out of date – such as: clothing in poor condition, toys and games that are missing pieces, luggage that has broken straps, zippers, or wheels; furniture, mattresses, play structures, used baby equipment (car seats, pack-n-plays, strollers, etc.), electronics (video games, phones, DVDs, CDs, etc.), household Items (appliances, kitchenware, decorations, wall decor, pillows, bedding (sheets and comforters), etc., breast pumps or breast pump accessories, food, beverages, or baby formula.
2100 24th Ave. S., Suite 200 Seattle, WA 98144 206-767-7000
Drop-off Hours: Tue. & Thu., 10 a.m.-3 p.m. or by appointment.
Northwest Center
Pexels
The Northwest Center has created schools and bustling social enterprises which demonstrate the powerful benefit of people of all abilities working together. Your toys will be used in one of their awesome early learning programs where children with and without developmental disabilities learn and play together. With two dozen drop off locations, this organization makes donating super easy. Currently, the Northwest Center Big Blue Trucks aren't making rounds for donation pick-ups, but families can still drop off clothing only in the Big Blue Bins. Find one near you online. You can also donate to Northwest Center at any Value Village store.
7272 W. Marginal Way S. Seattle, WA 98108 206-285-9140
Mary's Place
Mary's Place
This safe haven provides more than just the tangible needs of food and shelter for homeless families with children; Mary's Place also provides a community and a safety net for women and families looking to rebuild their lives and move back into housing quickly. They are always in need of gently used items and other items. They have donation stations in SODO (Mon.-Sat., 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.) and Seattle Regrade (Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sat., 9 a.m.-1 p.m.). More information about each location and drop-off hours can be found online.
What new or used items to donate: Children's books, backpacks, tote bags, fanny packs, small suitcases, bottles, sippy cups, in-season clothing for men, women and kids, raincoats, towels, utensils, small appliances (microwaves, crock pots, toasters, blenders), digital ear thermometers,
What NEW items to donate: Diapers (especially sizes 5 & 6), baby wipes, hand sanitizer, antibacterial hand wipes, individual tissue packets, alcohol wipes, cough drops, Pedialyte packets, pain relievers (Ibuprofen, aspirin), topical antibiotic ointments (like Neosporin or PolySporin), cough drops, hairbrushes, hair ties, body wash, ethnic hair care, lotion, Chapstick, razors, nail clippers, makeup, mouthwash, toothbrushes and toothpaste.
Items with a high need: Twin sheets, blankets, pillowcases, auto shop gift certificates, maternity clothes, new underwear (all sizes - men, women and children), stroller covers and towels. Check online for the complete, most up-to-date list.
The Healing Center
Pixabay
As the only drop-in grief support center for youth (ages 4-18) in the area, The Healing Center fills an important gap in supporting kids who've experienced loss or trauma. The Healing Center also offers grief-support for adults, children and families as well as a day camp in the summer. The organization offers a unique, long-term, multi-faceted approach to grief support, combining group support with informal events and social networks.
Children’s programming supplies needed: Crayons, markers, colored pencil, coloring books, notebooks, board games, sketch book, Play-doh, model magic, beading supplies, watercolor supplies, washable kid's paint, construction paper, plain white paper and stickers.
Household supplies needed: Furniture (couches and chairs), lamps, side tables, office chairs and office desks.
If you have a LEGO lover in your life who's ready to release his or her (millions) of LEGO bricks and figurines, do not put them in your normal "donate box." Organizations like the Goodwill, Salvation Army, etc. will just throw them away if they're not in a complete set and if you try to recycle them, the city will sort them out and send them to the landfill. Give your LEGOs a new lease on life by sending them to the Brick Recycler. They will then send sets of LEGOs to schools in low-income areas, foster care programs, hospitals, and other organizations are also in need of LEGO sets but don’t have the money to buy them. You can ship them your mixed bag of LEGOs (for free if you ship via ground service including UPS Ground and FedEx Ground) and they'll sort and pass your bricks along to future builders. What a brick-tastic idea!
Address shipments to: Brick Recycler c/o Guaranteed Express 652 N. King Rd. San Jose, CA 95133
Before you start your post-nap time stealth purge of the toy bin or (gasp!) before enlisting the kids in selecting a few of their treasures to share with a child in need, here are a few tips for donating used toys:
1. Make your donations count by only offering items that are truly "gently used" and in good working order. Almost all organizations will throw away broken, stained or otherwise unusable toys, clothes or other donations, including toys missing any of their parts. St. Vincent de Paul estimates their annual garbage bill at over $60,000 because of unsellable items that include things like shirts with stains or broken zippers or puzzles with missing pieces. Hint: Local subscription service, Ridwell is a great place to threadcycle non-wearable clothing.
2. Don't donate toys or items that have been recalled. Those drop-side cribs are a no-no, even if it was a gorgeous family heirloom that all your kiddos slept safely in.
3. Put fresh batteries in automated toys. Or include a new pack of batteries with your donation.
4. Sort your donations. Though it isn't a requirement, it really helps the donation stations process donations when items are pre-sorted. For an example, place all clothing in one bag and shoes in another.
5. Double check on questionable items. Plush animals are frequently not accepted due to allergens. Big-ticket items like play furniture or outdoor play equipment may not be accepted as many organizations don't have room to store these biggies, so you might want to give your local organization a call before you haul it over there. (Don't stress! We have some options below for such cases.)
6. Don't forget to ask for a receipt. Most places will give you a tax deduction for your donation, so ask for a receipt!
Wondering where you donate your kids clothes and toys in Portland? These non-profits are happy to pass along items to local families in need
Spring is almost here, which means it’s the perfect time to do some heavy spring cleaning. Before you throw out all of your kids’ old toys and clothes, remember that what’s old to you and your family could be new and exciting for local families in need. After you’ve sifted through your family’s lightly worn items, head to one of these Portland non-profit spots with your mostly new and lightly used clothes, toys and household goods at these places where families can donate kids clothes and toys in Portland.
Mother and Child Education Center Providing resources for families in need, this nonprofit accepts a wide range of gently used items for babies. It’s almost more useful to list some of the things they don’t accept, such as toys, stuffed animals, high chairs, and adult clothing. They’ve got a fabulously detailed donations page to help you sort and package your goods in a way that streamlines volunteer and staff time, so that items reach recipients more efficiently. In the event that they can’t take an item you’re looking to donate, they’re even happy to offer suggestions for alternate places. Just call. No more excuses for dumping a bunch of random stuff at Goodwill.
Good to Know: Donations done by appointment only. They ask that you call to find out if they can accept your donations in advance.
Catholic Charities’ In Kind Catholic Charities accepts new or gently-used baby clothes, maternity clothes, household appliances, and furniture. You can also donate your new or like-new bedding and towels. Please note, they only accept new hygiene items, baby toys, cribs, pack-n-plays, and car seats. Catholic Charities of Oregon can also pick up large donations of furniture or household items on a case-by-case basis. They ask that you call to make an appointment to drop off your items and make sure to check out their current list of needs. Make an appointment to drop off your in-kind donations during regular business hours by emailing donations@ccoregon.org.
Catholic Charities Traveling Crib Pregnancy & Parenting Support Program Clark Family Center 2740 S.E. Powell Blvd. Portland Online:catholiccharitiesoregon.org
With Love, Providing clothes and other necessities to children in foster care, this nonprofit seeks your donations in new or like-new condition. Donate baby swings, strollers, high chairs, bouncy seats, baby carriers, and Pack-n-Plays that are clean, have no broken parts and have not been recalled. Check their website for a complete list of guidelines and items not accepted. Two locations in Tigard and Lake Oswego serve as drop-off spots. Check the website for days and times.
Impact NW With a long history of serving families in the Portland Metro area and beyond, this nonprofit provides a wide range of free services. Many of the people they serve have only enough income for food, rent, and the bare essentials, and so Impact NW accepts donations of other much-needed supplies. While they always accept donations of new items, they accept gently used items in clean and good condition on an at-will basis only, due to limited storage space. Please call ahead to ask about available space for the item you’d like to donate. Donations can be dropped off at time arranged over an advanced phone call.
Central City Concern Central City Concern serves families impacted by homelessness, mental illness, poverty and addictions. They gladly accept donations of gently used children’s items, hygiene kits, diapers, baby wipes,car seats (new), strollers, bassinets . Check their website for a complete list of ways you can give.
Northwest Children’s Outreach This faith-based nonprofit operates several distribution centers in Oregon and SW Washington, working to provide caregivers with items families need. Volunteers sort clothing, pack orders, and pick up donations. They accept clothing for newborns to teens, hygiene products, breastfeeding supplies (including pumps), nursery items, children’s safety products, toys, and books. Check their website for a complete list and for hours of operation at each location.
Children’s Book Bank Have your kids outgrown a portion of their at-home library? Bring your gently used books to this non-profit focused on providing children’s literature to children with limited access to books at home. Volunteers rehabilitate and bundle the books for distribution through Head Start and public schools, so please check for missing pages, mold, or other damage beyond repair before donating. Current needs include board books, picture books, alphabet books, books about numbers, colors, animals, shapes and words, story books, rhyming books, Dr. Seuss books, multicultural books and books in Spanish. Donations taken by appointment only. Call to setup your time.
Insights Teen Parent Services Dedicated to serving teen parents and their children through a wide range of free support services, this nonprofit also runs a resource closet that parents can visit by appointment to find what they need. Among other items, they're currently accepting maternity clothes, clothing in sizes newborn-5T, toys for ages 0-5, board books, and winter coats. They also accept cribs made after December 2011, and used car seats that meet specific requirements, as listed on the website. Donations are limited to a specific list so check their website for an updated list.
After having delivered several hundred babies as a midwife in Chicago and New York City, Christine put away the scrubs and moved back home to the Golden State to focus on her own young family. She loves exploring the great outdoors and is happiest any time she is outdoors, preferably on or near water. Christine is thrilled to join the Red Tricycle/Tinybeans team as Bay Area editor and looks forward to combining two of her greatest loves—exploring and writing.
Favorite place to play outdoors: Rockaway Beach in Pacifica. During migration season, whales frolic and play close by so it’s a front-row seat to one of nature’s greatest shows.
Favorite thing to do on a rainy day: Children’s Discovery Museum in San Jose
Favorite restaurant to take the kids: After a day of sailing or windsurfing, we love relaxing at The Bistro at Shoreline Lake
Can’t-live-without mom product: Do coffee and wine count? No? Baby wipes.
Favorite thing about raising kids in the Bay Area: I love that the weather is fantastic year-round which allows for even more time to spend outdoors. Drizzling rain (when it happens!), you have nothing on two feet of snow!
Most unique thing you’ve done with kids locally: Hiked to Alamere Falls in Bonita near Point Reyes. It is unique in that it empties directly into the ocean and is one of only two waterfalls of its kind on the West coast—the other being McWay Falls in Big Sur.
With infants, comes the high possibility of spit ups. It is absolutely normal. If you are a new mom, by now you would have experienced it. As an infant, my son spat up almost all the breastmilk he consumed. It was so frustrating to go over the entire process of tidying him up, with a change of clothes, and feed him again; hoping he doesn’t spit up again.
Acid reflux is also responsible for baby spit ups. It manifests around 2-4 weeks and peaks around 4 months. It usually subsides a few months later once your baby starts solids and starts sitting. It does increase before getting better though and sometimes using reflux medications can seem to be the only option.
However, it is important to note that not all babies that spit up have infant acid reflux. One clear indication that your baby has acid reflux is when they spit up repeatedly and arc their back and cry a lot. This is because of the acid that comes up after every feed and it can be very painful for babies. If your baby just spits up and is happy, it is a sign that your child doesn’t have acid reflux.
Baby spit-ups, and the associated mess, while not being totally avoidable, can be managed with ease. Yes mommies!! It can be managed with ease. Here’s how:
1. Keep Your Baby Propped Up
Keeping the baby propped up for at least 20 minutes after each feed, drastically reduces the chances of a spit-up. I tried this with my son and believe me….it worked wonders!!
Laying them down just after you feed increases their chance of spitting up as propping them up can keep their food down due to gravity.
2. Burp Your Baby
Babies tend to ingest a lot of air while suckling or feeding. So, make sure to burp your baby after each feed to ease the gas out from their little tummies. The accumulated gas/air can get painful and can lead eventually to a spit-up. So, burp your cutie.
3. Keep Burp Cloths & Wipes Handy
I always kept burp cloths handy during the first year of my son. It helps to quickly react to and clean up spit ups, dribbles, and all the baby mess that is always on-the-way back up. Also, keep baby wipes handy and you are good to go. Keeping the baby clean and dry should is a priority!
4. No Tummy Time after a Feed
Tummy time is essential for babies. It helps them gain strength and also relieves the gas accumulated in their tummies. But it should not be done right after a feed. The baby is very likely to spit up if you do.
Allow for at least an hour, after a feed, to give your super-kid some “tummy time”. It is so cute to watch them during this exercise….and especially when they are not spitting up!
5. Feed Small Meals Frequently
This is one thing I wasn’t aware of when I had my son. I would overfeed him and felt overwhelmed when he would routinely spit up and cry after a feed, until a visit to my chiropractor remedied my folly.
We mommies tend to forget, that our babies have very small tummies. They cannot accommodate the overabundance of love-filled-feeding which we subject them to. Spit up is the natural aftermath of such misplaced love. Hence, the key to minimizing spit-ups due to overfeeding, is to give small feeds at reasonable intervals. It works beautifully.
6. Have the Baby Sleep on an Incline
Usually babies don’t need this but if your baby suffers from acid reflux, this is something I can’t recommend enough. My son had acid reflux and would cry a lot due to the extreme discomfort. This also kept him from sleeping for prolonged periods. But then we were advised to try this technique. Make the baby sleep on a slight incline; with the head on the elevated side. This method really helped for better sleep quality for the baby, in addition to reducing the discomfort caused by acid reflux.
7. Get Mess-Proof Baby Clothes
Babies make messes and will continue to do so till they grow up. They spit up, drool, and generally keep messing up. It is an exasperating non-stop process to keep them clean and dry. For stain-proof clothing, try Snug Bub stain-proof baby clothes. They can be wiped clean, have no chemicals on them, are breathable, child friendly, and are super soft. Just take a damp wipe and wipe off the mess….and Viola!! No need for a change of clothes!! An absolute “must-have” for your baby wardrobe.
Tia, a Sacramento based mommy who loves to write about her son and parenting experiences. Even though she loves being a mother she knows how hard parenting can be sometimes.
Eva Ingvarson Cerise, Bump + Baby Editor Eva lives in northern Utah with her husband and daughter and misses her grown-up stepdaughter, who lives in another state. She began her career as a magazine writer, editor and copy editor for publications such as Bon Appétit, and then spent more than a decade developing content and defining the content strategy and user experience for websites in the financial and consumer space, such as Evite. As a recent transplant to Utah, she is enjoying exploring the area with her family.
What’s the best piece of advice you got while pregnant? Let go of your idea of how things should be and focus on how they are.
Favorite baby travel hack? Pack a clean-up kit with baby wipes, disinfecting wipes, Ziploc bags, garbage bags, extra diapers and a change of outfits—yours and your baby’s. Storing everything you need in the same place makes it easier to manage messes when they happen. And they will.
What’s in your diaper bag or purse you can’t live without? A small flashlight. My daughter finds it endlessly fascinating, so I save it for when I really need her to be calm and content, like when we’re waiting for our meal at a restaurant.
Your favorite city to visit with your family and why: Stockholm. I was born there but moved to the US as a child. It’s a beautiful, walkable city with lots to do, especially in the summertime. I also have lots of family in the area and love to catch up with them.
Your idea of a perfect Saturday (or any day) with your family: A lazy morning spent reading in bed, followed by a nature hike and an excursion to a local museum, farmers market, zoo—any venue that makes my daughter’s eyes light up.
The most surprising thing you’ve learned as a mom: Just how fascinating it is to watch these little beings learn and grow. Every month, I find myself saying, “This is the most amazing age.” And they all are. It all feels miraculous and I’m so grateful to experience it.
I kneeled on the floor of our son’s nursery, my big belly resting on my thighs, as I folded tiny onesies and sweatpants, lifting up each piece to inspect it and sniff it, breathing in that sweet Dreft mixture of baby powder and potential. Each pile was arranged by size and type, and I was pleased with myself—for my organization, and for my forethought. Our baby would be the best dressed baby on the block and his small, cool guy clothes would be laundered with their own special products and process. Only the best for my man!
By the time our daughter arrived two years later, I was buying baby-specific bath and laundry products for them and many bulk cleaning supplies from Costco. That is, until our daughter started getting car sick.
At least once a week, even on a ten minute drive to the freeway entrance, our daughter would throw up her latest meal, all over herself and her car seat. My husband would strip the seat and hose down the inner plastic, his nose scrunched as he investigated to ensure he didn’t miss a drop of puke. We’d wash the cover and pads in our Kirkland detergent and hang it all to dry. As soon as I’d climb into the car, I’d feel a pounding headache begin to form right above my eyebrows. I’d drive with the windows down to help the air circulate, knowing I had to make some big changes.
I am a fan of The Bachelor franchise, so I jokingly started talking about my “Clean Product Journey” on Instagram. I had already converted to Tubby Todd for everything kid bath-related and was slowly working through my beauty products, but I hadn’t considered our dishwasher pods or Clorox wipes or detergents—not even my beloved Dreft. From our daughter’s 4th or 5th car barf, it was on: my journey would end in—at minimum—a new long-term relationship with products that were both clean and not overly crunchy. I would become a hippie, a fancy one—a fancy hippie who likes light smells and decent price points.
The items you see here have been deeply and lovingly researched, often with support from the Environmental Working Group website, which rates products on their toxicity. I’m pleased with where I am on my journey and glad I get to share my progress, but I’m far from done. Hope they help!
This is one of the few EWG-verified laundry detergents that has any scent, and it smells like a lavender and lemongrass wafting in to your window on a warm afternoon. I get it on Subscribe and Save from the company, along with their dishwasher pods.
Tubby Todd has a cult following for good, clean reasons!
$40
Any mommy Facebook group will tell you we swear by Tubby Todd's All Over Ointment (AOO) for all things eczema and dry skin-related. Their bubble bath, shampoo, conditioner, detangler, body lotion and thicker Dream Cream are daily go-tos at our house. I even got a bottle of bubble bath for myself so I wouldn't have to keep taking one out of our kids's bathroom!
I learned from the L'Avant ladies (two moms from Seattle with six kids between them) that most cleaning wipes are made of plastic. Their Multipurpose Wipes are not only powered by plants, but also 100% biodegradable. Score one for us, and one for the environment!
An All Purpose spray that's endorsed by Bravo? Okay!
$14.49
I've tried a lot of sprays, you guys. Like, so many sprays. I keep coming back to this one. It leaves NO streaks, doesn't give me headaches, and has a nice scent that I don't mind smelling all over the house, even in the kitchen where I prefer citrus. It's also nice that I can get it with a quick trigger finger Amazon Subscribe & Save, but I've seen it at Target too.
A cold-pressed hand soap that doesn't strip your skin.
$4.99
We're all washing our hands a lot more these days and that can strip out moisture. Raw Sugar makes the only soaps I've found that don't dry out my hands. Plus, they look and smell great! The Coconut + Mango is my go-to, but I love all the scents they have and keep Lemon Sugar in the kitchen.
Honest and Water Wipes are marketed as super pure, but they're actually not as pure as these wipes are. This is another Amazon Subscribe & Save item I get for us that's a little pricier than the others, but worth it for sensitive baby booties. Plus, I use them on their faces, too, and haven't seen any little rashes like I did wiping with the others. The price goes way down if you subscribe.
Dream Cream deserves its own spotlight because it is so deliciously moisturizing. I get a weird patch of dry skin on my right pointer finger every year when the weather gets colder and Dream Cream, with its shea base, is one of the few lotions that can combat it. We love it so much that I got an extra tube for husband to lather on his dry hands throughout the day. The scent is light and very gender-neutral.
Wool Dryer Balls Laundry 6-Pack-100% Organic New Zealand Wool
Time to get on the dryer ball bandwagon!
$19.99
I've been using dryer balls for a handful of years and I love knowing that I'm not burning chemicals into our clothes with dryer sheets. I put a drop of essential oils on them (I like Saje blends) in the dryer and let them do their thang. They do get caught up in our clothes when we take loads out, and I like to huck them back into the laundry room and see how successful I am at making my shots. Our kids have fun throwing them back, too!
Nice suds, fights grime, and plant-based—oh, yeah!
$3.99
My first deep product research journey was for dish soap. I spent at least a year looking for something that smelled citrus-y, was clean, had good bubbles, fought grime, and didn't dry out my hands. Ecos has been the far and away clear winner so far. I find it on Amazon (fulfilled by Whole Foods) and at other similar fancy grocery stores. When I can't find it, my backup is the dish soap from Trader Joe's.
If you're like me, at the end of a long day, you might want to grab a glass of wine and soak in the tub while you watch bad TV on the iPad. It's important that when you take those baths, the bubbles are nice and fluffy and stick around. Enter: Tubby Todd. I tried a bunch of bubble baths at various price points when our toddlers were smaller and nothing compared to this stuff. It's also hydrating and great for sensitive skin! Treat yourself to this—it'll change your baths for good.
If you’re planning your baby registry or stocking up before the big day, focus your to-buy list on these essentials that will get you through those first weeks. High chairs, toys and even the crib can wait. This is what you’ll really need when baby arrives.
Diaper Changing Pad
Skip Hop
A changing table is handy if you have the room, but for outings and travel, a portable diaper changing pad is all you'll need. And as your child gets older, you may prefer the simplicity of changing them on the floor, couch or bed. This one, from Skip Hop, has a wipe-clean, zip-off changing pad and roomy pockets for diapers, wipes, bum cream and hand sanitizer. It also features a zippered front pocket for your phone, keys and wallet. Best of all, it folds up into a sleek clutch you can wear on your wrist, clip to your stroller or toss in a diaper bag.
We love: the Pronto Signature Changing Station, available at skiphop.com.
Infant Hat
MORI
Hats on babies are not only adorable, they're necessary in certain conditions. A hat will keep baby warm and comfortable in cooler temps and block the sun from their sensitive scalp. As a general rule, put a hat on your baby if you feel the weather is cold. And if your baby looks or feels flushed or appears uncomfortable while wearing a hat, take it off.
Keep track of baby's feeding, sleep and diaper schedule, as well as developmental milestones, immunizations and illnesses, with one of the many awesome apps out there. You'll be able to pick up patterns to help you establish a baby routine that maximizes comfort (yours and baby's), and you can more easily answer any of your pediatrician's questions.
You can start reading to babies the day they're born, and you should! Babies love your voice and find it soothing, and bonding with your babe over a book is a great way for you to get some relaxation amid the stressful, sleepless early days of motherhood. Studies show that regularly reading to your baby builds language comprehension and reading skills too. So visit your library for board books; stock your shelves with classics; or sign up for Literati's baby book club and have age-appropriate books sent to your door.
Tiny babies can make big messes. And when you're a new mom, you want your cleaning products to be safe and toxin-free, but you also want them to be super effective. Truce cleaning products have you covered. We especially love the peppermint-scented all-purpose cleaner, which cuts grease, leaves a streak-free finish and contains only five ingredients (water, isopropyl alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, organic castile soap and essential oils).
We love: Truce cleaning products, available at truceclean.com.
Diapers
Abby & Finn
A stockpile of diapers and wipes is essential for any new parent. Take the guesswork out of when to reorderwith a diaper subscription service that brings the goods to you. Perks of ABBY&FINN include a convenient "set it and forget it" approach, mix and match with multiple sizes and designs in the same box, and the ability to select from a range of frequencies. All of their diapers are eco-friendly and toxin-free, and are comparable in price to Pampers subscribe and save.
Wraps are a helpful carrier option in the early months as the fabric keeps babies close and is soft on their skin. Some look tricky to fasten, but if you ask a sales associate or watch a YouTube video, you'll catch on quicker than you think. You can also pick a style (like this one) that makes it as easy as putting on a t-shirt.
We Love: Baby K'tan PRINT baby carrier, available at babyktan.com, $60.
Swaddle Blankets
aden anais
Loose blankets are a safety hazard for the first year of baby's life, but swaddling blankets are a life-saver. Wrap baby like a burrito to keep restless arms and legs from jolting them awake. These are also great as stroller covers, nursing covers, park blankets, and more.
Top priority: the car seat. You'll need one installed in your car before you leave the hospital with your newborn, so this is one purchase that can't wait. Look for one with a high safety rating. If you plan to buy a stroller from a different brand, check that there's an adaptor for your brand of car seat.
Diaper changes can leave sensitive baby bums irritated, and rashes from wet diapers, certain soaps or baby wipes, or even food intolerances are common. Keep a diaper cream like Triple Paste (a mom favorite!) at the ready to smooth on at the first signs of redness, and you can stop discomfort in its tracks. This ointment is fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and thick to create a protective barrier on baby's skin. Buy a set of smaller tubes so you can keep one in your diaper bag, another at your changing station and a third at the grandparents' house.
We love: Triple Paste, available at amazon.com, $30 for a 3-pack of 2 oz. tubes.
Bassinet
Chicco
With multiple nightly wakeup calls, you'll want to keep baby within reach. A bassinet by your bedside keeps baby close enough for you to soothe them quickly, and to peer over to watch them sleep.
Give your arms a rest during breastfeeding or bottle-feeding with a fit-to-your-body pillow. In later months, baby can use it to practice tummy time and sitting up.
Your newborn doesn't need a fancy wardrobe at first, as newborns spend most of their time sleeping or snuggling at home. An arsenal of onesies makes dressing your baby quick and easy, and soft cotton in solid colors will match your other baby clothes.
We Love: Primary Organic Babysuit 5-Pack, available at primary.com, $45.
Infant Tub
Boon
A tub that's designed for newborns makes bathing baby easier in those early months. Choose one that converts to a toddler tub to get maximum use out of it.
We Love: Boon Naked 2-Position Collapsible Baby Bathtub, available at amazon.com, $70.
Bibs
Bumkins
Bibs aren't just for babies who eat solids. They're handy for bottle-feeding and catching spit-up and drool. Buy them in bulk. You'll be swapping and washing them often!
We Love: Bumkins Super, available at target.com, $13.
Diaper Bag
7 a.m. Enfant
Getting out of the house with your baby is a must in the first weeks, not just for your sanity, but also for the little one's doctor's appointments. Arm yourself will a well-organized diaper bag so you're prepared with everything from a fresh onesie to a burp cloth and warm blanket.
We Love: 7 a.m. Enfant Soho Diaper Bag, available at 7amenfant.com, $85.
Baby Monitor
Nanit
Video is key for checking in on your baby without disturbing them. Some monitors, like this one, work with an app so you can monitor from your phone when you're away from home. Even grandparents can tune in to watch baby sleep.
We Love: Nanit Pro Camera, available at nanit.com, $299+.
Slow-Flow Baby Bottles
LUX
Whether you're feeding your baby formula or pumped milk, look for bottles that mimic the shape of the breast and slow down the flow of liquid to reduce colic, spitting up, burping and gas.
Middle-of-the-night feedings and diaper changes go a lot smoother with a soft light that doesn't wake up baby or your partner. Better yet, choose an illuminated gadget that doubles as a sound machine. The repetitive sounds of white (static) or pink (rainfall) noise can help soothe your newborn throughout the night.
Swaddling from scratch isn't for every parent (especially in the middle of the night), and some infants can wiggle out of a swaddle blanket like a mini Houdini. These sacks make it easy on both of you with simple zippers and Velcro. Baby will feel snug, and you'll feel like a superstar swaddler!
We Love: HALO SleepSack Swaddle, available at halosleep.com, $25.
Natural Pacifier
Natursutten
When your baby is crying and you've tried everything from shushing and milk or formula to a diaper change, a pacifier gives baby some comfort. Sticking to orthodontic designs may protect your baby's future teeth, and a one-piece design isn't only safer but also easier to clean.
We Love: Natursutten Orthodontic Rubber Pacifier, available at amazon.com, $12.
Are you getting ready to celebrate a new baby in your family or friend-circle? With so many baby gift options available, choosing the perfect one can be daunting. Hello Bello has the unique but practical gifts that are perfect for the new moms and dads in your life.
Hello Bello is there to help parents navigate life’s messiest, stinkiest most unmissable joy – parenthood.
Break in Case of Baby Kit ($29.98): This kit includes Hello Bello’s size 1 diapers (35ct), plant-based baby wipes (60ct), 10oz. Shampoo, 10oz. Bubble Bath, 8.5oz Body Lotion and 4oz. diaper rash cream.
Diaper Cake ($34.97): It’s a centerpiece and a gift. The Diaper Cake features Hello Bello’s super-soft diapers in the classic ABC’s design with other surprise baby essentials tucked inside. Includes 10 ct. plant-based baby wipes, 2oz. shampoo + body wash, 2oz. bubble bath, and three fun signs to personalize the cake (“It’s a Boy!”, “It’s a Girl!”, “It’s a Baby!”).
Are you ready for Amazon Prime Day? Well ready or not, here it comes!
This year, the members-only sale runs Tues., Oct. 13- Wed., Oct. 14, with tons of notable deals released throughout both days. Amongst them, we have our eyes on some great baby products and gear. Keep reading to see our picks, and don’t forget to check back here for up-to-date sales.
Babyganics
We love these fragrance-free, non-allergenic baby wipes from Babyganics. Get a pack fo 10 for only $19.10. See the deal here.
Chicco
Chicco
Chicco is offering 25 percent off on baby gear that includes car seats and travel systems:
Snag this pack 'n' play mattress for 24% off. Our Editorial Director has this same exact mattress for her pack 'n' play and thinks it makes naps and nighttime sleep much more comfortable for both her kids.
Enfagrow
Enfagrow
Select Enfagrow products will be 20 percent off, including:
Our Editorial Director is a huge fan of Pampers and will be scooping up some of these deals for her kids this Prime Day. Notable deals for Pampers Pure diapers and wipes collection include:
