Holding on to baby gear for your next child is a smart move, saving you both money and time. Unless these items pose a risk to your child’s health or safety. So pack up the baby clothes, books and toys and then read on to find out how to safely reuse baby gear for your next child.
A word of caution: For anything you keep, check to make sure there have not been any recalls, that no pieces are missing, and that everything is intact and in good working order before you sacrifice storage space to it.
What to Ditch
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Mattresses There is some evidence that used crib mattresses pose an increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome. While the risk is higher from mattresses from a different home, there is still a slightly increased risk of SIDS when a mattress is reused by a sibling. Additionally, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies sleep on a firm, flat surface. Many mattresses become soft and develop divots with use. This means used mattresses may be unsafe.
Nipples Nipples for baby bottles are usually made from silicone or rubber, and both substances break down over time. They can also degrade after exposure to heat from repeated washings. For this reason, you should replace nipples for baby number two.
Pacifiers Like nipples, pacifiers are normally made from materials that do not stand the test of time. There is also a risk that older pacifiers may break off of their base, posing a choking hazard. Given how inexpensive pacifiers are, it makes sense to replace them all.
Think Before You Keep
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Car Seats It's never a good idea to buy a used car seat, since there is no way to be sure its safety wasn't compromised in an accident. However, if you want to reuse an older sibling's car seat, it might be safe to do so. The most important thing to check is that the car seat has not expired. If the car seat is past its use-by date, or if it has ever been in an accident, get rid of it. Otherwise, it's usually safe to use a car seat for a younger sibling as long as all parts are intact. Keep in mind that car seat technology is constantly evolving, so even if your old car seat is still in good shape it might be a good idea to invest in a new car seat with better safety features.
Breast Pump It's perfectly safe for many mothers to reuse their own breast pumps for a second child. All parts should be sterilized and checked for signs of mold before use. Most parts can be sterilized by placing them in boiling water for 5 minutes or using a specially designed microwavable pouch. It is not safe to use a breast pump that has previously been used by another woman, with the exception of hospital-grade pumps. There is a risk of contamination from bacterial or viral particles that can make a baby sick. Many insurance companies cover a new breast pump for each pregnancy, so check your coverage before making a decision.
Keep It
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And now for the good news about how to reuse baby gear the safe way.
Crib Most cribs are sturdy and can safely be used for multiple children, as long as the mattress is replaced. Make sure your old crib meets current safety standards and check for recalls. If there are features now considered unsafe, such as drop sides or large spaces between slats, it's time for a new crib. Otherwise, reusing a crib can save you a bundle.
High Chair High chairs may get dirty, but most are built to take a beating. As long as your high chair has no broken parts, remains stable and there is no risk of baby sliding out, it's likely safe for you to reuse this essential item.
Stroller Strollers are one of the most reused items for second babies for good reason! Well-made strollers last a long time and remain functional even if the fabric fades. Unlike car seats, safety features have not changed much over time. If you don't need to upgrade to a double stroller once a new bambino appears on the scene, chances are good it's perfectly safe to use your stroller for another child.
Bottles Most baby bottles can be cleaned and sterilized easily. That means it's safe to use them for multiple babies. But make sure to replace those nipples.
Slings and Carriers Baby slings, wraps and carriers generally hold up over time. As long as there are no broken buckles and straps remain taut, it's likely safe to reuse your favorite carrier.
Playmat
Babies need a lot of tummy time. Luckily, most play mats and baby gyms can be cleaned and reused safely.
Baby Bath If your baby bathtub is free of cracks and mold there is no reason it can't be used again!
Cloth Diapers Although there may be a little bit of a "yuck" factor, cloth diapers are safe to reuse for a second child. It's very easy to wash cloth diapers and make them good as new.
Bouncers Baby bouncers are a lifesaver for many parents of newborns, since they give their arms a much needed break. As helpful as they are, this essential piece of gear is relatively simple. That means there is not much that can go wrong, making most safe to reuse for your next baby.
Creating a baby registry for your first time (or even your third) can feel both exciting and overwhelming. With so many options available, from bottles and diapers to monitors and car seats, you may be uncertain of what to choose.
The First Years, whose mission is to encourage parents and caregivers to embrace every first moment of their newborn’s life, offers a wide range of high-quality, long-lasting products that’ll make your transition to parenthood a breeze. We’ve selected the top five items that are a must for your baby registry and will give you more bang for your buck.
Bathing your bundle of joy for the very first time is a monumental milestone in parenthood. While you may be excited for this moment, it can be tricky (and nerve wracking!) to hold onto your little one’s slippery body. With The First Years Sure Comfort Folding Bather, you can easily and safely wash your baby in the bathtub and in most kitchen sinks with its no-slip seat and raised mesh sides. The inclined bather, which is available only at Target, can also be used from the time of the baby’s birth up until they’re 15 pounds or begin sitting up unassisted.
Sit or Stand™ Potty & Urinal – 2-in-1 Potty Training System
When creating a baby registry, moms and dads tend to select items geared towards the first 12 months of their infant’s life. It can be a good idea, however, to add a few products that your baby will need as they continue to age. For instance, the Sit or Stand™ Potty & Urinal is great to have on hand when your toddler begins to show readiness for the potty-training stage. This 2-in-1 system is great for boys and girls alike, functioning as both a potty and a urinal that’s easy to empty and clean, features a built-in splash guard and can be adjusted to three different height options. Your child can successfully practice using the potty in a sit or stand mode, free of accidents.
A baby’s hungry cry can be stress inducing no matter the time of day. With The First Years Gentle Warmth™ Digital Bottle Warmer on hand, you can keep your infant happy and fed and make your life go a little more smoothly–especially when it’s 2 a.m. and you’re exhausted. Through its digital touchscreen, the bottle warmer quickly heats up breast milk, formula and even baby food jars based on the heating time and temperature you select. You can also sterilize multiple pacifiers at once, so you’ll always have them on hand whenever your baby gets fussy.
Once your baby makes their debut, you’ll want to do everything in your power to keep your newborn safe and healthy. By adding The First Years Modular Steam Sterilizer to your parenting arsenal, you’ll be able to kill 99% of common germs with natural steam in minutes. Through multiple tray compartments, you’ll have plenty of space for sanitizing bottle nipples, breast pump accessories, pacifiers, teethers and bottles, to name a few. The modular design also doubles as storage, saving counter space in your kitchen and keeping your baby’s products sterilized for an entire day. Available only at Target!
One of the most exciting moments of parenthood is introducing your baby to a world of foods and flavors–will they love or hate peas and carrots? Are bananas their favorite over apples? Experiment with different vegetables, fruits, meats and cereals with The First Years First Fresh Foods Blender & Steamer. Touting a powerful motor that allows you to process your own baby food to the perfect consistency, the blender can hold up to three-and-a-half cups of food, so you can quickly and efficiently meal prep for the week.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.
When you’re popping bottles for your babe, you want bottles that don’t leak, are easy to clean, and minimize gas and other discomfort. Most of all, you want a bottle your baby will drink from. From glass baby bottles to BPA-free plastic, stainless steel and silicone, innovations abound in modern bottles. Read on for the very best baby bottles for breastmilk and formula from brands you love, including Tommee Tippee, NUK, Comotomo, Dr. Brown’s, Philips and Nanobebe.
This glass bottle, covered in a silicone sleeve, comes with a silicone nipple and a silicone spout, so you can help your baby learn how to drink from a cup. The handles are removable as your child gets better able to hold the bottle. Once removed, the silicone sleeve gives them a good grip to feed themselves.
Liquids only touch glass in this eco-friendly bottle free from harmful chemicals, PVC, BPAs and other additives. The wide neck on the Green Sprouts’ Sprout Ware® Baby Bottle made from Plants and Glass makes for easy filling and cleaning, and the angled neck and vented nipple mean kids can sit more upright, which can help them avoid colic, gas and digestive upset. The nipple provides variable flow that baby regulates, and it flexes to mimic breastfeeding.
If you prefer glass baby bottles but want the durability of plastic, you need the Duo bottle from Chicco. This ingenious bottle pairs glass (which doesn't retain stains, smells or an aftertaste) with a plastic outer layer free of BPA, BPS, PVC and phthalates. The nipple has an anti-colic valve, a skin-like texture and is shaped for an intuitive latch.
These Flexy Silicone Baby Bottles from nanobébé have a mom-like softness and breast shape, plus a stable base so it won't tip over and spill your liquid gold or formula. The nipple features three vents and is non-collapsible, to help maintain baby's latch and minimize post-feeding discomfort. As your child gets older and drinks more, you'll appreciate that this bottle holds up to 9 ounces. It comes with slow-flow nipples (which are great for kids at any age), but nipples with different flow rates can be purchased separately.
Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Soft Silicone Baby Bottle
The Closer to Nature Soft Silicone Baby Bottle from Tommee Tippee has a soft feel and an award-winning nipple that make it feel more like breastfeeding. The bottle is made from an odor-resistant material without BPA, PVC or phthalates and features an anti-colic valve and a no-leak lid so you can bring it with you without worrying about spills. It comes in 5-ounce and 9-ounce sizes.
The off-center, elongated nipple on this bottle from Hegen mimics a woman's breast, which can help picky breastfeeders warm to using a bottle. The positioning of the nipple, along with anti-colic vents, help reduce backflow and gas. Mamas who pump will appreciate that you can pump directly into these bottles using an adaptor and get an airtight seal with the bottle's innovative storage lid.
NUK's Smooth Flow Anti-Colic Bottle features a unique nipple design that adapts to your baby's suction strength to adjust the milk flow, which can help reduce colic. The nipple shape mimics the shape of a woman's nipple while nursing, so breastfeeding babies are bound to love it. The bottle also features a temperature indicator to let you know at a glance if the milk or formula is too hot to drink. The wide-neck bottle makes for easy cleaning, by hand or in the dishwasher. Comes in 5-ounce and 10-ounce sizes and a variety of cute designs.
The Olababy GentleBottle has an off-set nipple to promote latching and discourage bottle rejection. The texture of this soft, medical-grade silicone bottle makes it easy to grip, and the bottle contains a dual venting system to reduce colic and enhance air flow. It comes in sweet, muted colors: mint, coral, rose, sky or frost. Also great, you can add accessories that maximize your use of the bottle and help your child make the move to big-kid cups: Slip on the Teether Handle and your child can work on holding their own bottle, along with getting a safe, non-toxic spot to gnaw on while teething. Replace the nipple with the spill-proof Soft Spout and you've helped baby with the transition to a drinking cup. Then pop on the Transitional Sippy Lid and you've turned baby's bottle into a sippy cup.
If you're looking for a leak-proof bottle, check out the aMACEing ZERO LEAK® Baby Bottle with Anti-Colic Vent and Variable Flow from Mace Baby. With a clever design that releases liquid only when baby's mouth squeezes the nipple, baby can even drink while laying down without liquid leaking out. The unique nipple also means that baby's feeding rhythm controls the flow of liquid. The bottle comes with an anti-colic vent meant to reduce incidences of colic, reflux, burping or gas. The bottle comes in 7-ounce and 10-ounce sizes.
If you're concerned about spit-up, burping and gas, give Dr. Brown’s Natural Flow Options+ Anti-Colic Baby Bottle a try. The Options+ bottles feature an internal vent system that supports digestion; the vent system also provides a consistent flow of liquid, which supports breastfeeding. When baby outgrows the vent system, just remove it and keep using the bottle. These bottles come in wide-neck and narrow-neck styles. The wide-neck bottles feature a breast-like nipple, which encourages a proper latch and which some babies, especially those who are breastfed, prefer to drink out of.
The ingenious PopYum bottle stores formula and water separately for convenient bottle feeding at home or on the go. Just push two buttons and shake. The bottle, made of medical-grade silicone and premium polypropylene, features a wide opening for easy cleaning. There's an included funnel to make loading formula easier, and the leak-free bottle also works great for breast milk.
The Philips Avent Anti-Colic Bottle with AirFree Vent keeps the nipple full during feedings so baby swallows less air. This can help reduce gas, reflux and colic. It also means baby can drink in an upright position if that's more comfortable for both of you. The nipples come in four different flow rates so you can choose what's right for your baby's age and flow preferences.
The sleek and modern Comotomo baby bottle distinguishes itself by its shape and material. The entire bottle, not just the nipple, is made from soft, squeezable, skin-like silicone to provide an experience similar to breastfeeding. The nipple is designed to mimic a natural latch. Built-in vents help prevent colic, a simple interlocking design stops leaks, and a wide opening makes it easy to clean.
If you've gone back to work and do a lot of pumping, the Kiinde Twist feeding system will change your life. Add an adaptor to your breast pump and pump directly into the storage pouch. Store the leak-proof pouches neatly in the fridge or freezer using the handy storage-bag holder. When baby is hungry, heat the milk directly in the pouch, then fit the pouch into the feeding bottle and you’re ready to go. With specially designed nipples (slow-flow and medium-flow), your little one should transition seamlessly between breast and bottle. No transferring of breast milk to heat or serve it, and no scrubbing bottles (just nipples) needed.
The nanobébé bottle is designed to protect breast milk nutrients through its innovative design. The unique shape also means the bottles stack easily and compactly, and the milk warms faster than a standard bottle to calm a crying child more quickly. It includes a colic-reducing venting system and a soft silicone nipple.
When bringing formula on the go, packing water and powder separately (and trying not to spill them when it comes time to mix) can be cumbersome. This clever little product, the Mixie Formula-Mixing Bottle, aims to make all that easier. A special airtight compartment keeps formula powder dry while the rest of the bottle is filled with water. When it comes time to blend, you just push a button and shake, and the formula is mixed with no clumps. Genius!
The sleek Smilo bottle will make both you and your baby smile. The company’s founders are pediatric specialists and engineers, so care was taken to optimize feeding sessions. The nipple is curved to mimic a mother’s milk ducts and breast, requiring less suction for your baby to extract milk. The leak-resistant bottle features a venting system and a circular tab that allows you to hold the bottle with just a pinky finger, leaving the rest of your arms for baby.
Don't want to cause any confusion for babies flipping back and forth between breastfeeding and bottle feeding? Try the Munchkin Latch, which is equipped with an accordion-style nipple that moves and stretches like the breast. You'll also appreciate the built-in anti-colic valve that aims to reduce air flowing through the milk. Available in 4-ounce and 8-ounce sizes, this bottle has lots of benefits at a low price.
At first glance, you might think that the Born Free Breeze bottle's biggest draw is its modern glass design, anti-colic vent and breastfeeding-like nipple, but what you'll really love is the two-piece construction. The nipple and top is a single piece. So when it comes to washing up, there aren't a lot of pieces to take apart and put back together. Also good to note: The ThermaSafe glass can go from freezing to boiling temps without breaking.
If you like the idea of glass but are concerned about putting a breakable material in your baby's hands, try the Lifefactory baby bottles, which gives a cool, modern makeover to the basic glass bottle. Each bottle comes with a brightly colored silicone sleeve that makes it easier to grip and tougher to shatter.
Make feeding time more comfortable for your baby with the Philips Avent Natural Bottle. The nipple features a wide breast-like shape and inner petals that increase flexibility and softness, mimicking the breastfeeding experience and making it easier for babies to latch on. A twin valve offers anti-colic benefits to reduce any tummy discomfort caused by feeding.
Want to add a little fun to feeding time? Try these Nuk Bottles with Perfect Fit Nipples, which come in cute designs. The bottle is designed with a silicone nipple to mimic nursing as well as an anti-colic air system that makes it easy to position the bottle in the optimal position for feeding while reducing colic, spit-up and gas.
Want to avoid plastic but stick to a lightweight material? Then you'll love the Pura Kiki stainless steel bottle. Insulated, colorful and equipped with a natural nipple, this is a must-have. You'll also love that this bottle grows with your child. Buy a sipper spout or silicone straw to transform it into a sippy or straw cup.
Babies love to gnaw on their Sophie the Giraffe teething toy, and now that company has partnered with Mii Baby to produce the Mii Sophie la Girafe Forever Baby Bottles. The nipples feature raised bumps to replicate a nursing woman’s nipple and a rounded base to comfort sore, swollen gums. Bottles come in either glass or a durable plastic alternative.
The Lux Big Boob Baby Bottle has a curvy shape and lots of handy features. The soft, food-grade silicone shape mimics a breast, while the nipple was designed to encourage latching and control milk flow. As baby grows, its unique shape makes it easy to grasp, and the wide opening makes the bottle easy to clean.
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!
If there’s one thing the pandemic has taught us, is that you can never be too prepared when it comes to stocking up your home medicine cabinet. Rather than hand over your hard-earned paycheck to a national pharmacy chain that is always more expensive, we’ve got the ultimate hack: the Amazon FSA Store.
If you haven’t heard of this section of Amazon, you’re not alone. Launched a little on the sly, the storefront is packed with Flexible Spending Account-eligible products only (so you won’t get stiffed on the reimbursement). To refresh your memory, an FSA is a special account you can contribute funds to from your paycheck for the specific purchase of health-care related products or services. It’s pre-tax and always comes in handy.
While many people use their FSA funds to cover co-pays, procedures and prescription medication, there is actually a slew of over-the-counter products that you can purchase using the funds. Some categories include:
Baby & Pregnancy: pregnancy tests, nursing supplies including breast pumps, diaper rash ointment
Ok now that you’re excited to do some shopping, let’s talk about savings and how the Amazon FSA store saves you big bucks. First, you can pre-load your FSA card into your account so you are never stuck shopping without it. Because let’s be honest, we all have good intentions about submitting those receipts for a reimbursement, but then––life.
In addition to not paying out of pocket, you can snag must-have products at typically low prices that Amazon offers. For example, you can pick up a three-pack of First Response Early Pregnancy Tests for $9 on Amazon, or head to Rite Aid and fork out $14. Need Medela Breast Milk storage bags? You can pay $13 on Amazon or $20 at Target.
We could go on and on sharing the screaming deals you can find on your must-have FSA products, but with over 10,000 products, we’d be here all night! Do yourself a favor, and the next time you place your Amazon order, add a few eligible products to your cart to stock up.
I share a lot online. I have an active Twitter account and tweet about my day-to-day shenanigans as a mom, wife, and startup CEO. I blogged through my husband’s battle with cancer last year, sharing the raw emotions from his diagnosis all the way through his treatment. But of all the things I’ve shared online, there’s been one thing I haven’t.
Around five weeks after my pregnancy, I was officially diagnosed with severe postpartum depression. I’ve told some people about it before, but I haven’t ever gone into detail about what happened to me. Like many moms, I was ashamed.
Depending on the person, the manifestation of the disease can be different. I never had thoughts of harming my daughter, but I had frequent thoughts of harming myself. I had convinced myself that I was absolutely unfit to be a mother and that the only way to make the situation “right” for my daughter would be if I took my own life so that others who were more fit to raise her would step up. I knew that no one would believe I was unfit to be a mother if I was living, so therefore, I had to be dead. I firmly believed that it was the only way out.
In retrospect, it was the perfect storm of events that led to my depression spiraling out of control. A day after my daughter was sent home with us, we found ourselves back in the NICU because of an episode where she lost consciousness. While she was in the NICU, I also moved back into the hospital so I could be close to her. I stayed in a tiny hospital room where I was on call to breastfeed her. I couldn’t leave to even get food or shower, because as soon as one breastfeeding session finished, I would pump to increase my supply, and then it was time to breastfeed her again.
When we finally took her home, she was healthy, but I was mentally and physically depleted. I was still recovering from giving birth, but I hadn’t really slept, eaten, or given my body any time to heal.
The suicidal thoughts that started forming in the hospital really came to a head once we all got home for good. I remember late one night I was cleaning my breast pump parts and I thought that I should kill myself at that moment because everyone was asleep. But I was too tired. Honestly, the sheer exhaustion was the only thing that saved my life those first few weeks.
For each person, how you get better is different. Serious postpartum depression is almost always best treated with professional help, but sometimes getting the help you need is the hardest and most daunting part.
For me, there were two things that were really vital to my recovery. First, I talked to other parents and heard what I was experiencing was normal. This helped me admit to my doctor that I had a problem and put me on the road to recovery. Second, I forced myself to get out of the house, with and without my daughter. This helped me feel like a human again and just the sheer physical activity of going places with my daughter helped me return to health.
If you would have told me 1.5 years ago that today I’d be happier than I’ve ever been, I wouldn’t have believed you. I want other mothers who are struggling with postpartum depression to know that it does get better. Today I have a healthy, beautiful, happy toddler and I wake up every day thankful that she’s in my life. While I still find parenting challenging at times, I no longer feel that challenge is insurmountable. I also now run my own company, Winnie, with the express goal of making parents’ lives easier. I would have never had the idea for this company had I not become a parent.
I never thought I’d say this, but I love being a mom. Moms, you are not alone. Postpartum depression is a real disease, but the good news is it can be cured. I’m living proof.
Short mom to tall kids. CEO and co-founder of Winnie, a leading marketplace for daycare and preschool helping millions of parents across the United States. Still getting the gist of this whole parenting thing.
We all know parents are warriors who can work miracles on very little sleep. But we’re also human, and humans need support sometimes. These online resources can connect you with experts, answer your questions, calm your mind, and provide valuable help to you and your baby.
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The Lactation Network Get the breastfeeding support you need, including 100% health insurance-covered consultations with lactation consultants (in-home, in-office or telehealth), help choosing a breast pump, and lots of useful articles to support your nursing journey.
New Kind Get one-on-one newborn support from certified postpartum doulas with years of experience in feeding, sleep and postpartum issues. Pick a plan, then get matched with an expert and meet them by video call.
Pregnancy After Loss Support (PALS) This nonprofit organization provides parents expecting rainbow babies with online support groups, in-person local groups, and an app with a milestone tracker, community support, self-care and coping tools and more.
pumpspotting This breastfeeding app gives you access to experts for virtual consultations and connects you with a community of parents living that nursing life. Read articles tailored to your experience, based on baby's due date and the date you go back to work. There's even a crowdsourced map of places to nurse and pump, with ratings and photos.
Cluster Get answers to all your questions about feeding your baby on Cluster, in a judgment-free, peer-powered community. Brought to you by baby nutrition company ByHeart, Cluster can set you up with appointments, classes and events with experts in the field, along with ways to connect with other parents with similar feeding concerns. Whether you're bottlefeeding or breastfeeding, you'll find answers about feeding and sleep, breast issues, setting schedules, baby digestive issues, bonding, self-care and more.
Motherfigure This maternal wellness startup is committed to supporting mothers through pregnancy, childbirth and raising children through providing them access to care and education. Find childbirth education classes (online or in person); search for doulas, lactation consultants and more in your area; shop for maternity and nursing clothes; and read lots of first-person accounts and reviews.
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Exhale Parent This educational resource gives new parents and parents-to-be the legal and financial information they need. If you have questions about topics such as maximizing paternal leave, writing a contract for a caretaker for your child, budgeting, creating a will or choosing a 529 plan, Exhale Parent can help. The site breaks down topics so they're easier to understand and lets you know the steps involved so you can tackle them efficiently.
boober Founded by a doula, this online marketplace helps expectant and new parents find high-quality classes on childbirth and postpartum support (topics include infant CPR, pumping and newborn sleep), as well as vetted, expert maternal care providers, including lactation consultants, doulas and mental health therapists. Sessions are held in-person or virtually and include free live webinars.
Postpartum Support International This organization offers online support groups, helplines & text services for new and expecting moms to help manage postpartum stress, isolation, anxiety and depression. Call or text the helpline 24/7 to leave a message that will be answered by a trained volunteer. There are weekly online support meetings for a variety of groups, including: pregnancy mood support, perinatal mood support, NICU parents, military moms, pregnancy and infant loss, and black mothers. Dads can also call for support or attend the monthly Just for Dads chat.
Parent Lab Parent Lab offers online parenting courses (online or audio) on a variety of topics geared toward new parents, including dealing with anxiety, increasing quality time, screen time guidance, sleep, and coparenting. The team of experts includes child development experts, behavioral experts and parent coaches.
Nurture by NAPS Founded by two labor-and-delivery nurses, who are also moms, Nurture by NAPS is a subscription service that offers evidence-based, instructional content on pregnancy through the first year of a child's life, including videos from medical professionals, live webinars, weekly live Q&A sessions, and the ability to ask nurses questions and receive an answer within 24 hours.
Tinyhood Tinyhood is an app and website that provides advice and support to parents and parents-to-be. Through live online parenting classes and one-on-one consultations with experts, Tinyhood tackles a ton of topics, including developmental milestones, sleep, introducing solid foods, breastfeeding, your postpartum health and more. The experts range from certified lactation consultants and sleep consultants to pediatric nutritionists and potty-training specialists.
Major Care If you need support as you care for your new baby, consider a doula service like Major Care. This organization matches moms with a certified postpartum doula that can provide 24/7 virtual postpartum care and support. This includes lactation, pumping, perinatal body care, vaginal healing and mood disorder screening and resources. You choose whether you want the services to begin before or after your little one arrives.
Tot Squad This service offers virtual sessions with experts on home safety, sleep issues, lactation, car seat installation checks and doula services (prenatal, early labor and postpartum).
FoodSafety.gov This government website lists exactly which foods pregnant women should avoid and why. There's also a handy graphic you can print out to make it easier.
La Leche League International This nonprofit organization provides education, training and advocacy around breastfeeding. There's extensive information on the website on issues related to breastfeeding, including food allergies, biting, caffeine, alcohol, mastitis, oversupply, reflux, tongue ties, vitamins and weight loss.
Kelly Mom Kelly Mom provides tons of helpful, evidence-based information around breastfeeding, parenting, health and nutrition. Founded by a lactation consultant, the site is organized by topic (including pregnancy and ages & stages), so you can find the information you need.
Healthy Children.org This website from the American Academy of Pediatrics hosts articles prenatal and baby information on a variety of topics. It covers milestones, nutrition, emotional wellness, immunizations, safety, family dynamics and health issues, all from a medical perspective.
Heal Talk to doctors using phone or video chat. The video chat happens within the Heal app so there's no additional software to download aside from the app. Doctors can order labs, write prescriptions, and refer you to specialists, making it easy for you to get remote care from the comfort of your own home. Heal also provides mental health services from doctors of clinical psychology. Covered by many health insurance plans (check for yours on the Heal website). Currently available in the following states: Georgia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Virginia, Washington and Washington, D.C.
In my career as an obstetrician, I’ve delivered more than 6,000 babies. Though new mothers are often eager to breastfeed their babies, many struggle with challenges. With mothers sometimes being sent home only 12 hours after giving birth, they often lack the professional guidance that new parents used to receive in hospitals. Here are my essential tips, addressing some of the most common questions about breastfeeding.
I’m struggling with latching. What should I do?
Latching on is important for both mom and baby. Years ago we could keep a mother and newborn in the hospital until any breastfeeding problems were addressed before sending the family home. Today, with shortened hospital stays, mothers and babies are often discharged before latching is established.
It is important to know what must happen in order for a baby to be nourished. Breastfeeding is not like sucking on a straw that barely extends beyond your lips. For breastfeeding to work, about 2.5 cm of nipple and areola must be in the baby’s mouth. That is so it reaches the baby’s soft palate, where normal suction occurs. This helps preserve Mom’s health; the ducts in the areolas get drained, making mastitis and plugged ducts less likely.
To make latching easier, put the baby’s bottom lip at the bottom of your areola and then put your nipple to the baby’s lips. For most mothers, the edge of your areola and the edge of the baby’s lip should be near.
It’s also important to recognize that if you are worried or distressed—if you think you won’t be able to nurse your baby—you will be less likely to be successful. If you have confidence that you can nurse your baby, you will have a better chance at success.
I use a breast pump. How long can I store the milk?
Fresh breast milk can be kept up to four hours at room temperature (77 degrees F), up to four days in the refrigerator (40 degrees F), and up to six to twelve months in the freezer (0 degrees F). Any leftover milk from feeding should be consumed by the baby within two hours or thrown away. Frozen breast milk thawed should be used within one to two hours and stored in the refrigerator for up to one day. Never refreeze pumped breast milk.
How long should I nurse the baby each time I feed them?
The most important thing about nursing is to be flexible. Once established, your options are endless. I had one patient who nursed her child once a day from one breast for three years.
The baby needs to eat enough to gain 5-7 ounces each week. The baby would double its birth weight by six months and triple its birth weight by one year. Contrary to some recommendations that nursed babies only be given the breast, you can breast and bottle feed. It’s important to get help from nurses or lactation consultants in the first three days. Studies show that women who have c-sections have less trouble with babies failing to thrive (not gaining weight), and subsequently being hospitalized. This isn’t much of a mystery if you consider that women who deliver vaginally are sometimes sent home within 12 hours of delivery — with very little time to receive instruction from professionals about getting started breastfeeding. C-section patients will likely be in the hospital longer.
How many times a day should I nurse my baby?
You need to feed your baby often enough so that it gains weight. Be aware that younger infants will eat more often, taking less milk at each feeding. Whenever your baby cries it is a good time to offer the breast. In my experience, 95 percent of crying babies are hungry.
Should I wake my baby up for feeding?
I would recommend against waking your baby for feeding. However, there is one very important exception. If your baby is small and nurses every two to three hours throughout the day and night, your baby is unlikely to go four or five hours without waking up to nurse. In this situation, I would try waking your baby after four or five hours to be sure that they are okay.
Is it safe to take medications while breastfeeding?
This depends upon what medications you are talking about. You may safely take prenatal iron and vitamins, most over-the-counter medications, Tylenol, antibiotics such as erythromycin or gentamicin, and thyroid replacement medications. If you have any questions or doubts about the safety of a medication while breastfeeding, please ask your doctor.
Remember, if you have any questions, there’s no need to feel alone. There are professionals available to help you, so don’t be afraid to reach out for advice.
An obstetrician and maternal mortality expert, “Rural Doc” Alan Lindemann, M.D. teaches women and families how to create the outcomes they want for their own health and pregnancy. In nearly 40 years of practice, he has delivered around 6,000 babies and achieved a maternal mortality rate of zero! Visit LindemannMD.com
Here’s another reason to get pumped for Tokyo. To support breastfeeding during the Olympic Games, Willow has offered to send the brand’s Generation 3 wearable breast pump to Olympic athletes, coaches, training staff and onsite support.
Although organizers of Tokyo’s events had banned athletes’ families from attending the Games due to Covid-19 safety protocols, they’ve now made an exception for Olympic participants with nursing children. In response, Willow is offering to send them the pump and has made this their message: Being a breastfeeding mother and a world-class athlete do NOT need to be mutually exclusive.
Athletes and other busy moms love the hands-free technology and full mobility of this wearable pump. The Willow all-in-one breast pump fits inside your bra with no external tubes, cords or bottles, so it’s great for on-the-go, even if where you’re going is the Olympics!
The pump is spill-proof in any position, so you can lie down, bend over, jump on a Zoom call, tend to kids or train for your Olympic sport while pumping that liquid gold. Check out the Willow breast pump on their website and learn more about their generous Olympics offer on this Instagram post.
“Traveling with kids is so easy,” said no one ever. If you’ve ever boarded an airplane with a baby, you know that the amount of stuff a small person needs is in inverse proportion to their size. Diapers, wipes, a change of clothes for all parties, snacks, a breast pump, and more and more and more—they all need to fit into your carry-on bag. And you want everything to be easily accessible.
Co-founders Gemma Gaisano Ng and Daniel Ng are parents themselves and they know the struggle it is to travel with little ones—the constant digging through your diaper bag to find the paci clip or favorite toy. No Reception Club just released its first two products, the Getaway Bag and the Sidekick, and you’re going to want to get in on the kickstarter pronto!
The sleek Getaway Bag speaks to Gemma’s fashion background as it is totally functional with design features you don’t see in other family travel bags. The narrow shape makes it easy for any parent to carry and the stylish black exterior makes it more of an everything bag than a diaper bag. Gemma and Daniel worked with a bag designer with 20+ years of experience and you can definitely tell when you see the bag in person (which we did!).
Here’s what you’ll love about the Getaway Bag:
InstantSide Access into the bag’s two largest compartments, making it easier and faster to retrieve what you need.
Flexible Organization System with 2 “shelves” that velcro securely into the main compartment. Create 1, 2 or 3 sections. based on your needs.
Odor-Resistant Emergency Compartment at the base to isolate and contain any “accidents” along the way. It’s waterproof too.
AnEssentialsCompartment for the quickest side-access to critical items including diaper changing essentials—it also perfectly fits Sidekick!
Parent Pockets in the hood, front, and back panels to store everything you personally need like a laptop, passports, money, snacks and more.
The Sidekick is awesome for so many reasons:
It’s a totally discreet waist or shoulder pack that fits all the diaper-changing essentials.
The magnetic back flap gives you one-handed access to your wipes pouch inside. This totally brilliant feature makes it so you can use one arm to muscle your squirmy toddler on the changing table while accessing wipes with the other hand.
There’s an included changing pad.
How to Get Your Getaway Bag and Sidekick Get in on the Kickstarter that launches on July 13, 2021. It wraps up August 15, 202`1 with products shipping out in time for the holidays.
