Magzter Gold (Sitewide AU)

Magzter Gold (Sitewide AU)

Digital Delivery

Mother & Baby April 1st, 2020 Digital Back Issue Cover

Mother & Baby April 2020 (Digital)

(0)

Single Digital Issue

April 2020

$3.11

Powered By Zinio

Zinio

Satisfaction Guaranteed

Instant Start

Also available on ZINIO Unlimited logo

Get unlimited access to Mother & Baby (Digital) + Back Issues & 5000+ other magazines

1-month free trial

Renews at $8.99/month after trial.
Cancel anytime.

Get unlimited access to Mother & Baby (Digital) + Back Issues & 5000+ other magazines. Renews at just $8.99/month after trial. Cancel anytime.

Start Trial Learn more

90 Articles

Heloo! As Mother’s Day spins round, I can’t help thinking about this amazing journey we’re all on. Whether this is the first one you’ll be celebrating as mama to a little bean still tucked up safe in your tum, or you’ve done this a dozen times or more, I think we all deserve to mark our achievements. So, take a look at that little person you’ve made – gaze into their eyes or smile at their scan pic, and give yourself a pat on the back. Because while you might doubt yourself, you’re doing a truly amazing job. If you need a little more encouragement, turn to page 84 to find out why you really do know best. I’m not saying it’s an easy job – babies can throw up…

Be prepared ‘Long or lightning-fast, labour length varies from woman to woman. But how safe and loved you feel can have a big impact on how smoothly your birth story unfolds,’ says birth expert Milli Hill on page 27. All ears! ‘Big ones, little ones… our ears are unique – and looking after your baby’s begins just few hours after he’s born. But caring for them needn’t be complicated,’ says consultant paediatrician Dr Hesham Abdulla on page 58. Sleep sorted ‘Create a relaxing pre-sleep ritual that you will both enjoy’, says sleep expert Marta Neto on page 78.…

Smart thinking Whether you’re pregnant and have got a bit of baby brain going on, or you’re looking after a tot or two and not getting the most sleep, you might find that making a decision takes a lot of energy and effort. And experts think your toddler has it a lot easier than you when it comes to making her little mind up! New research* on 18-month-olds has discovered that rather than simply doing things at random or just copying Mummy, toddlers are able to combine information from what happens to them and what happens to other people to decide whether to keep going with a problem or not. ‘This finding suggests that the toddlers engaged in a sophisticated decision-making process, similar to how adults might create a list…

Louise Pentland Where do I start?

The other day we took Pearl out for a particularly wet walk and through all the mud I noticed little snowdrops and daffodil bulbs had started to shoot up. Spring is coming! The days are slightly longer and things are starting to feel a bit cheerier. I always think parenting is so much easier in good weather when you can venture out, there’s more to do, and you don’t have to spend all your money on coffees at the soft-play centre! Hurrah! Before we are into the full swing of spring though, we have Mother’s Day! A day for us to remind everyone how fabulous we really are, to marvel at how clever we are for creating these little beings, to be showered with gifts by our loving family, to…

Louise Pentland
Where do I start?

Bright builds Made from chunky, sustainable plywood, this Le Toy Van Rainbow Tunnel will stimulate your toddler’s imagination and help to develop her hand eye co-ordination £14.95, letoyvan.com BOREDOM BUSTER Keep your baby busy while you enjoy a hot cup of tea with the Mamas & Papas Lights & Sounds Rainbow playmat. There are two arches with removable toys to encourage her to reach and play, as well as a light-up sun with integrated mirror. Suitable from birth. £89, mamasandpapas.com Rainbow read This soft Rainbows Tails book is begging to be explored, with noisy, crinkly pages to delve into boasting different textures for your little bookworm to touch and feel. Attach to your buggy for fun on the go. £12.50, jellycat.com FASHION FOCUS…

Nakshatra is 10 weeks old and has the most amazing, glittery eyes. She loves twinning with her mama! Monisha Mondava, Poole, Dorset Little rider This is my little girl Amelia, two, on her gorgeous Shetland pony, Duke. She loves riding! KATIE EATON, CAMBRIDGESHIRE Mother’s Day thanks Our son Jenson, 18 months, finds sleep difficult but, as you can see, he is full of fun. A huge thank you to my partner Lisa for staying strong when sleep-deprived. LEE MORGAN, PETERBOROUGH Little charmer Meet Zavier, who’s almost one. He has such a big personality and is a real charmer! He’s very curious and I love seeing his character and interests coming through as he’s getting older. ZED KAZMI, DUNSTABLE This is me and my little girl, Evelyn Elizabeth, in her Harry…

Letter of the month

Champion Mama! Here I am at eight months pregnant, winning my second national title for playing bowls, and appearing on BBC Sport for doing so – all while carrying my beautiful bundle of joy! Who says being pregnant has to stop us from reaching our goals and becoming the healthiest, happiest versions of ourselves for our babies? Fast forward five months and I have a beautiful and active four-month old, Hudson, who is obsessed with watching sport and to whom I tell the stories each night at bedtime of how he helped Mummy strive and achieve during pregnancy, and now in motherhood too. HARRIET STEVENS, TORQUAY Harriet wins a £150 voucher from Polarn O. Pyret, the iconic kids’ clothing brand with an ethical mindset WIN! A £150 VOUCHER FROM POLARN…

Letter of the month

This is me and my one-year-old Evie having some silly selfie fun! MELANIE DAWS, HAMPSHIRE Freddie Hawkins is one, and loves sleeping on Mummy. BEV HAWKINS, DERBY This is Arman, three months old. He loves baths, posing for pictures, and going for walks. He likes it when people talk to him, and responds with different sounds and giggles. Inna Berzina, Crawley Here’s my friend Laura and her two-year-old Dylan. She’s a brilliant friend and an amazing mum, and she’s expecting baby number two! SOPHIE KNIGHT, PETERBOROUGH SEND US YOUR SELFIES! We’d love to see your pics of you and your youngster. Send them to share@ motherand baby.co.uk…

AS MOTHER’S DAY approaches – along with your due date – you’re probably feeling full of anticipation for what’s around the corner. Make the long wait a little easier by taking some time to think about the here and now, by recording how you’re feeling, your pregnancy milestones and all the funny little things that make your pregnancy unique. Waiting For You: A Keepsake Pregnancy Journal (£12.87, Compendium Inc) is a new hardback journal that lets you do exactly that, and includes prompts such as ‘Our family and friends think we’re having…’ and ‘Ways you’ve grown and developed recently…’. It also encourages you to record your expectations, such as ‘What I imagine it will be like when I see you for the first time…’ and ‘I can’t wait to….’ The…

PREGNANCY PROBLEM-SOLVERS

1 If you’re experiencing the ‘mask of pregnancy’ (pigmentation, on cheeks and forehead), try the new Bioderma Pigmentbio range of five products that target dark spots. The Daily Care SPF50+ (available 4 March) is ideal for protecting against aggravating UV light. £20, feelunique.com 2 While love lines can be worn with pride, you can help relieve stretching skin with Clarins Body Partner Stretch Mark Expert. It contains plant extracts from green banana and tiger grass to firm skin and reinforce collagen to help prevent and reduce the appearance of stretch marks. £40, clarins.co.uk 3 Tackle any pregnancy blemishes with new skincare brand Q+A’s Zinc PCA Facial Serum. The zinc balances oil levels, while reishi and shiitake mushrooms tackle redness. £9, qandaskin. com…

PREGNANCY PROBLEM-SOLVERS

GET COSY If mindfulness is something you’re aware of but haven’t quite got around to trying, now is the time to think about how you can make your baby’s first year a calm one. We love the tip in Mindful Mamma by Sophie Fletcher (£14.99, Vermilion) about creating a den in the moments after giving birth. As Sophie says, birth environments can feel busy and bright, and distract you from just ‘being’ with your baby. Pack a dressing gown or perhaps lightweight blanket in your maternity bag, so you can create a tent by draping it over you and your baby, and your partner if you like. ‘Breathe in, 3… 2… 1… Breathing out, relax… relax… relax,’ says Sophie. ‘Let go of any worries or busy thoughts, and just be…

It’s one thing investing in a pair of maternity jeans that will see you from week 16 of your pregnancy right through to week 39, but splashing out on occasion wear can be a little harder to swallow. Maternity brand Isabella Oliver has launched a rental service to save you money and eliminate the impact of fast fashion on our planet. Choose from partywear and key pregnancy essentials to rent for two weeks. If you love it, you can buy it! Rental prices from £16, isabellaoliver.com DUE DATE CALCULATOR We can help you keep track of when your baby is likely to arrive motherandbaby. co.uk/due-date-calculator…

PERFECTION rejection !

Even before you became pregnant, we bet you imagined how it would be – what your bump would look like, the clothes you’d wear, and what sort of birth you’d like. And, of course, now you are pregnant, you want everything to be perfect. ‘It’s completely natural to have an idea and expectation of how you’d like your pregnancy to be,’ says perinatal psychiatrist Dr Rebecca Moore. ‘While a huge part of it is wanting the best possible start for your baby, it’s becoming increasingly common to want every aspect of your pregnancy to be a certain way too, from having thick, glossy pregnancy hair to being thrown the perfect baby shower. This desire to be perfect can take you by surprise, especially if you didn’t think of yourself as…

PERFECTION rejection !

HOW MUCH OF A PREGNANCY PERFECTIONIST ARE YOU?

1. YOU’D PLANNED TO HAVE A BANANA FOR YOUR MORNING SNACK BUT FELT A BIT QUEASY, SO DECIDED TO HAVE A BISCUIT INSTEAD.DO YOU: A Enjoy every crumb – it was exactly what you needed! B Eat the biscuit but feel a bit guilty about not having the banana C Have the biscuit but feel really bad that you’re not giving your baby the right nutrients 2. YOU SEE A PHOTO OF SOMEONE YOU USED TO GO TO SCHOOL WITH ON FACEBOOK. SHE’S PREGNANT AND SPORTING A MUCH SMALLER BABY BUMP THAN YOU. DO YOU: A Comment immediately to congratulate her. You didn’t even realise she was expecting! B Feel pleased for her… and try to find out exactly how far along she is C Feel rubbish – why is…

PRENATAL REFLEXOLOGY?

IT’S A FORM OF MASSAGE The theory behind reflexology is that your feet represent your body, and certain pressure points on the foot link to different parts of your body. For example, the big toe on your left foot represents the left side of your head. Pressing on these areas is then believed to trigger a healing process. The reflexologist will massage areas of your feet and sometimes your hands – perfect, as the usual massages can be more difficult when you are pregnant. IMPROVE YOUR WELLNESS Reflexology has been claimed to help a range of pregnancy symptoms such as swollen ankles, tiredness, aches, and even morning sickness. It also provides an opportunity for some quiet time for you to focus on you and your growing baby, and that’s always…

PRENATAL REFLEXOLOGY?

THE LONG and short of it

It’s said that ‘worry is the work of pregnancy’, and if you’re expecting a baby, you’ll probably find a new thing to feel anxious about each day. And right up there at the top of your worry list may be thoughts of how long your labour will last – you may have heard stories from friends about it lasting for days. On the other hand, you might have also heard of lightning-fast births, where baby arrived before mum had time to take her jeans off! But is there an ‘ideal’ length for labour, and what, if anything, can you do to influence it? WHAT’S ‘NORMAL’? First of all, we can only talk about averages here, because women are all different and unique. The ‘average’ labour, for a first-time mum, will…

THE LONG and short of it

Very short labours are known as ‘precipitous’ births and are defined as such if you go from zero to hero in three hours or less. This kind of labour is rare – it happens in only about 3 per cent of births – and it’s both more likely, and easier to predict, for second or subsequent babies. If your first baby came quickly, it’s likely (but not guaranteed) that your others will too, but there really is no other way of knowing that your labour will be fast. There may be a genetic element, so it’s worth asking your mother and grandma if they had very fast or very long labours, but unfortunately, this still won’t give you a definitive answer. Getting labour over as quickly as possible may sound…

For your first baby, you can expect your labour to be long, possibly stopping and starting a lot, as your body and mind warm up to the idea of having a baby. The process, from the first ‘niggles’ to having your newborn in your arms, may take as long as a few days, but usually these niggles will be on and off, and the part where you are occupied with one contraction after another will probably last on average about eight hours. Even in this intense time you will get breaks between the contractions, which should be completely pain free. If you are not getting these pain-free breaks, that may be down to your baby’s position. The midwives or doctors will guide you on this, but you can also try…

‘I worked hard for a calm, positive birth’

CARLY HOBBS, 36, A SPRAY TANNER, LIVES IN SHEFFIELD WITH PARTNER JONATHAN AND SON BILLY, ONE I’d like a planned c-section,’ I told the midwife, before nervously spilling my notes on the floor. I’d printed out reams of paper detailing my rights. Even so, I knew what I was asking for was controversial, especially for my first baby. But the midwife was understanding. She listened kindly as I explained I’d been living with anxiety since I was 13, and how the uncertainty of a natural birth scared me. When she said she’d refer me to a specialist to discuss it further, it was a relief. The doctors took my views into account before agreeing to give me the c-section, and I was switched to a lovely community midwife who was…

‘I worked hard for a calm, positive birth’

THREE THINGS I’D TELL MY FRIENDS

Prep for your planned c-section by watching YouTube videos of the operation with your partner. It will help both of you understand the steps, and show how you can make it special and personal for your own arrival. While everything should go to plan, labour can surprise you in how it styles out, so get familiar with the basics of what could happen. This will help empower you, too. Post-surgery, use your pregnancy pillow to prop up your tummy from underneath when you’re half sat up cuddling your baby.…

Just one more mouthful…

Are you a spoon feeder, or are you letting baby lead the way on your weaning journey? Put a group of new mums in a room and it’s likely they’ll each have unique views on the subject. However, a new study* suggests that baby-led weaning might be a good option if you are worried about your baby piling on the pounds. When your child helps himself to food it’s easier for him to stop when he’s full, whereas the researchers found that mums had a more set idea about how much baby should eat, encouraging him with the old favourite ‘just one more mouthful…’ If you can’t face the thought of baby-led weaning and would rather spoon feed, try to let him set the pace, and make sure you pay…

Just one more mouthful…

POTTY TRAINING PRODUCTS

1 With this product you won’t be caught short when you’re out and about. If he’s got to go, just flip the lid, and seal it again when he’s finished, with no spills! £26.99, mycarrypotty.com 2 Our babies love to be just like us, but climbing up to the big loo might just be a step too far. With My Real Potty from Nuby he’ll feel like a big boy and be excited to use his own special toilet. £30, nuby.uk.com 3 With a flip-up seat and realistic flush, the transition between potty and ‘big toilet’ will be seamless. It’s easy to clean and so comfy he won’t want to get off! £39.99, summerinfant.co.uk…

POTTY TRAINING PRODUCTS

JOIN THE FAMILY Thinking of delicious meals that your baby will love and will provide her with the nutrition she needs can sometimes feel like a challenge. But now baby-food brand Piccolo is here to support you with its new Family Club. If you’re stuck for inspiration or you need some advice, you can join for free and receive meal ideas, lifestyle tips, and information from experts as well as real mums and dads who are on their own parenting journey. To find out more and to sign up, visit mylittlepiccolo. com/join-the-family…

Your baby’s skin is soft and delicate, and to help you keep it that way, new toiletries brand Petit Jovial has launched a range of 100 per cent natural skincare, made from vegan-friendly ingredients. The range, which is is suitable for bump, baby and beyond, includes a Nourishing Multi-Purpose Balm for Face & Body, at £24.75. The lightly moisturising Nourishing Bath Oil, £23, is made with skin-loving sunflower oil and lavender, designed to soothe baby in a calming bath before bed. The Body Massage and Scalp Oil, £22, can be used to gently ease cradle cap or to massage and ease baby’s wind – and it can also help on your stretch marks. The products come in recyclable Miron violet glass jars that keep them fresher for longer, so there’s…

MEET THE EXPERT Marneta Viegas is the founder of Relax Kids, which produces relaxation CDs, books and baby mindfulness classes; relaxkids.com In his happiest moments your baby may well be a picture of peace, but could he really practice mindfulness? As curious as it sounds, research suggests the answer is yes, and that introducing a little zen into his life now could have positive effects for years to come. It’s been 20 years since Marneta Viegas first turned familiar fairytales into meditations for tots, and her company, Relax Kids, is now renowned for its CDs, books and classes. ‘Just last month, I was introduced to an 18-year-old who’d used our techniques, and he told me he still uses them today,’ she says. ‘Another little one is now a well-known West…

9 steps to baby mindfulness

Here’s one your toddler can practice too: ‘Squeeze your hands in a ball as tight as you can. See how tiny you can make them. Squeeze, squeeze, squeeze and relax,’ says Marneta. A fun way to focus your little one’s attention on his breath is to ask him to lie down on his back with his favourite teddy on his stomach. ‘Ask him to stay as still as he can, and watch teddy move up and down as he breathes in and out,’ says Marneta. It encourages abdominal breathing – a basic principle of all mindfulness and meditation practices. Glad to be Dan is a charming book that helps children identify difficult emotions and, instead of ignoring them, to use five different mindfulness exercises to work through them. £8, CreateSpace.…

HAVE FUN on your tum!

Want to have fun with your baby and help him to develop? Then get down and party – at carpet-level! ‘Tummy time is exactly what it says on the tin – it’s any time that your baby spends lying on his tummy,’ says early childhood teacher Clare Crew. These days, babies don’t get much of a chance to do that. That’s partly because we’re now more aware that babies need to sleep on their backs, because this reduces the risk of SIDS. ‘But even when babies are awake, they’re spending most of their time tucked safely into pushchairs, Bumbo seats, car seats, or slings,’ says Clare. ‘These “containers” are all useful for parents, but they mean that babies have very little chance of wriggling around on their tummies, on the…

HAVE FUN on your tum!

Knowing you, KNOWING me

It’s pretty amazing to think that from the moment your baby was born, he had his own, innate way of responding to new situations and new people. Whether he shied away from Granny when she first held him, or looked wide-eyed with curiosity when you introduced him to his new home, his reaction will be much like an emotional reflex. Your baby is born with a mix of certain temperaments, but they are not set in stone – they can be shaped by his environment and, as he grows, he may learn to change his reactions to fit social situations. That’s not to say you can scold or persuade your tot out of a tantrum – but parenting with warmth and sensitivity to his temperaments can decrease his upsets and…

Knowing you,

KNOWING me

Baby’s First Nappy change

Track her movements Yes, it may sound weird, but it’s worth tracking your newborn’s wees and poos for the first few days, as your midwife might enquire about her urine and bowel movements to check everything is well. We like the Baby Tracker – Newborn Log (free, iTunes and Android), which helps you easily record nappy changes as well as feeds and sleep. Get to know her poo It might look like no poo you’ve ever seen before, but don’t worry. Her first poo is known as meconium and is sticky and greeny-black – a little bit like Marmite. This should arrive some time in the first 48 hours. After a few days, it will change to a mustard-yellow colour. Newborn poo is easy to confuse with diarrhoea because of…

Baby’s

First Nappy change

ASDA LITTLE ANGELS NEWBORN NAPPIES

Asda Little Angels Newborn nappies are wonderfully soft and breathable for your bundle of joy. They feature SmartFlo™ absorbency, to take up moisture quickly and distribute wetness evenly, for added comfort. For only £2.50, these nappies also include a handy time-to-change wetness indicator, with a line that changes from yellow to blue when he’s ready for a fresh one, and a clever Size-up guide to help you recognise when it’s time to move up a nappy size. Only available at Asda.…

ASDA LITTLE ANGELS NEWBORN NAPPIES

Listen up, MAMA!

Big ones, little ones, stick to the head or stick out – just like belly buttons, our ears are unique – and a little more complicated than you might think! Caring for your baby’s ears begins when he is just a few hours old and, depending on your tot, can be a challenge. If you’re feeling a bit all at sea with it all don’t worry though, read on to discover all you need to know… Testing times If you give birth in hospital, you may be offered a newborn hearing test for your baby before you’re discharged, or you’ll be asked to attend an appointment in the first few weeks of your baby’s life. A small, soft earpiece is placed in your baby’s ear and sounds are played gently…

Listen up,
MAMA!

Let’s make some MEMORIES

As you look at your little bundle of fun, you probably think this Mother’s Day – especially if it’s your first one cuddling an actual baby – couldn’t get any better. Yes, she might not be that amazing at getting you presents or making you breakfast in bed just yet (come on Daddy, sort it out!) but you can rely on her to gaze at you with all the love you could ever want. So instead of focusing on the material things this year, we want to give you an even better present – the gift of memories of your little one. We’ve come up with some adorable ways to remember just how gorgeous and perfect she is right now, that you can treasure forever. Create a family tree of…

Let’s make some
MEMORIES

Soothe to SLEEP

‘We always make sure we keep the mood calm and relaxed in the last half an hour before bed. Then, when we go upstairs, I turn on nature sounds and sing Mila the same seven songs. By the time I get to song six, Mila is asleep!’ Tiffany Fitzpatrick, 28, from Gloucester, is mum to Mila, one, and Jack, nine If you’re a parent, chances are that you’ve fantasised about putting your baby in her cot at night and her just drifting off to sleep. It sounds so simple, right? And yet, we all know it can often be a lot more complicated than that. ‘Sleep can be really hard for babies,’ says Lucy Wolfe, a baby sleep consultant. ‘Here’s why: When they’re little, babies have two strong, but conflicting,…

Soothe to
SLEEP

THE READY-TO-SLEEP-TRAIN CHECKLIST

Before starting sleep-training, make sure you have a stretch of three to four weeks when you will be at home with your baby going to bed in the same place every night,’ says Lucy. Make sure any vaccinations happen before or after this stretch and, finally, make sure you plan. If you know what you’re going to be doing every night and why you’re doing it, you’ll feel much more confident. ‘That confidence will help to reassure your baby that everything is OK,’ says Lucy. ‘And that’s key to helping her relax and sleep’. For your baby to be ready to start Lucy’s Baby Sleep Solution, she needs to… • Be at least six months old • Have a consistent bedtime routine, which she’s used to. • Have an age-appropriate…

THE BABY SLEEP SOLUTION – LUCY’S STORY

‘It was my experience with my oldest son’s sleep that first got me interested in how babies learn to self-soothe,’ says Lucy. ‘When Jesse was born he was a brilliant sleeper, and so I assumed that I was just naturally good at getting babies to nod off. But then Jesse’s sleep started to degrade – to the point that, by the time he was nine months old, he was up every hour. I was tearing my hair out, trying to work out what was wrong, and feeling like a complete failure. After a lot of trial-and-error I started separating his milk from sleep and I got rid of his dummy, as it was constantly falling out of his mouth and waking him up. Then I had my second child, Ellen,…

THE BIG QUESTION CLAIRE STALLARD is an animal behaviourist for Blue Cross, a charity for sick, injured and homeless pets; bluecross.org.uk PREGNANCY HANNAH O’SULLIVAN is a midwife and runs hypnobirthing business The Calm Birth Midwife; facebook.com/ thecalmbirthmidwife HEALTH DR TIM UBHI is a consultant paediatrician and founder of the Children’s e-Hospital; e-hospital.co.uk SLEEP MARTA NETO is a paediatric gentle sleep consultant who works with parents to resolve their baby’s sleep issues; gentle sleepconsultant.co.uk BEHAVIOUR TIFFANY NORRIS is founder of The Mummy Concierge, which provides support and help for mums-to-be and new parents; themummyconcierge.com Q I’m expecting my first baby soon and am worried our cat might be put out! How can I prepare my pet? HAZEL WALKER, AMERSHAM Preparation is key. Cats are highly sensitive to scent, and how their…

PREGNACARE BREASTFEEDING

Vitabiotics Pregnacare Breast-Feeding is a comprehensive formulation of nutrients to provide the recommended level of 10mcg vitamin D, the full RDA of 700mg calcium, and 300mg DHA, as recommended by the Department of Health for all breastfeeding women. Maternal intake of DHA contributes to the normal brain and eye development of breastfed infants* . * A DAILY INTAKE OF 200MG DHA IS REQUIRED IN ADDITION TO THE RECOMMENDED DAILY INTAKE OF 250MG DHA/EPA FOR ADULTS. A BENEFICIAL EFFECT IS OBTAINED WITH A DAILY INTAKE OF 200MG DHA IN ADDITION TO THE RECOMMENDED DAILY INTAKE OF OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS FOR ADULTS.…

PREGNACARE BREASTFEEDING

Time to get in sync EVER SAT PLAYING with your baby and felt a strong sense of connection with her? Well it turns out you may be onto something! Researchers from Princeton University examined how adult and baby’s brains interacted during play, and discovered that both brain activities rose and fell together as they shared toys and eye contact. However, when the adult and child turned away from each other or engaged with other people, the connection was lost. 3 of the best… BABY WIPES Wipes are a must when you’re a mum and these Mother&Baby Awards 2020 winners will be your new best friend 1 Keep your baby squeaky clean with the Aldi Mamia Sensitive Baby Wipes, which are fragrance-free and gentle against her delicate skin. The hard packet…

It’s your first day at your brand-new dream job, and you’re excited but nervous. There’s so much to learn and to get to grips with, but you know that it will take a while to start feeling at home in a new role and to get to know the people and, besides, you’re always going to be learning… and that’s OK! When you think about it, starting a new job has a lot of similarities to becoming a mum (although the outfits are probably a bit different), but when you step foot in that new office, or shop, or school, you don’t expect to know everything immediately. So why do we think we’ve got to be employee of the month on our first day of motherhood? Whether you’re the mum…

3 ways to boost your confidence

BE OPEN Instead of saying ‘I’m fine!’ when someone asks how you are at baby sensory, be the one that says: ‘I’m actually having a hard time today.’ ‘You’ll find that suddenly the conversation steps up a level and then everyone starts being more open and honest about their own experiences – and it’s moments like this where we realise we’re not alone in the things we struggle with, and how easy it is to look at the filtered versions of parenting that we see,’ says Anna. ‘Vulnerability is really important, and taking little opportunities to be open and honest can help to build up confidence.’ EXAMINE YOUR INTERNAL DIALOGUE Consider the way you speak and respond to yourself. For example, say you dropped some milk that you spent ages…

WHAT DO YOU THINK?

We’ve all felt judged in some way or other as a parent, but it’s worth remembering how easy it can be to be affected by what you think people are thinking about you. ‘I work on my phone a lot and I’m also with my kids a lot,’ says Anna. ‘Someone might look at me funny, but they have no idea what I’m doing. I could be adding something to a shopping list or replying to a message from an upset family member. But the more value we apply to the opinion of other people, the more we are damaging our sense of self. If we’re working on our own confidence and who we are, the opinions of others are going to matter less. Because while one person might see…

Stash the cash!

Use cashback sites Whether it’s for groceries or baby gear, most of us shop online regularly. But did you know you could be saving as you spend? Visit your favourite online stores via cashback sites such as quidco.com and topcashback.co.uk and you can earn money back – often a percentage of the total spent – which is transferred straight into your bank account. Meal plan While your baby is napping, take a few minutes to go through your cupboards and freezer, making a note of what you have (and chucking anything past its sell-by date). Then sit down and plan as many meals for the week as you can with what you already have, making a list just of the food you need to complete these meals – it’s sure…

Stash the cash!

‘Our extra-special Mother’s Day’

‘I’ll be with my own mum at last’ In recent years, my mum and I have not been able to spend Mother’s Day together. But all that’s going to change this time, because me, Mum and the kids will be celebrating in our home country of Poland. I can’t wait to finally get the chance to be with her. I moved to the UK in 2007 to work and study. My now-husband Milan and I met soon after, fell in love, and went on to have our three beautiful children. I love my life here, but miss my mum so much. We try to get together once a year, and recently those times have coordinated with the births of my children, or Christmas. Flights for us all are expensive, so…

‘Our extra-special Mother’s Day’

Hark back to simpler times and take an old-world approach to decorating the nursery. This pretty scheme is calm and clutter-free, yet full of warmth and whimsy. Put the room in bloom and pile on the floral prints on walls and in accessories. There’s no need to worry about clashing colours or patterns – a range of different prints will add to the vintage appeal. Here, a statement brass cot pulls the look together, but if you prefer to take a more subtle approach, simply pull out gold details in furnishings. Bring to mind the nostalgia of childhoods past with pillowy eiderdowns and cushions – just remember to always remove all items from the cot before laying your child down to sleep. Finish the look by upcycling old furniture with…

Sweet potato Bolognese boats Sweet potato is packed full of goodness and here doubles up as a ‘boat’ for your Bolognese. Simple yet effective, adding a little theatre to dishes can make all the difference in encouraging a fussy tot. SUITABLE FROM 12 MONTHS Prep: 10 minutes Cook: 15-50 minutes Makes: 2 sweet potato boats (2 child portions) INGREDIENTS • 1 small sweet potato • 3 tbsp leftover Bolognese sauce • 2 tbsp mature Cheddar cheese, grated Directions 1 Prick the sweet potato with a fork several times and then cook it in the microwave for 7–10 minutes until soft in the middle, or bake in the oven at 200°C/ 400°F/gas mark 6 for about 45 minutes, or until soft and cooked through. 2 Preheat the grill to high. As…

Cuddle close BATHTIME MEANS the chance to spend some one-on-one time with your baby and help her unwind ready for bed, but handling a slippery, wriggly child can be stressful, especially if you’re tackling bathtime solo. Now available in an on-trend new grey star design that’ll look gorgeous in your home, the Cuddledry towel is held in place by a strap around your neck, meaning you have two hands free to safely lift your little one from the water. Made from natural bamboo and cotton so it’s snuggly soft against your baby’s skin, the little hood will keep her head warm too. All that’s left then is to cuddle her dry – lucky you! £35.99, cuddledry.com 3 of the best … INNOVATIONS We love a clever gadget and these Mother&Baby…

DOUBLE PUSHCHAIRS

Getting out and about with not one but two little ones can seem daunting, but don’t fret – the right set of wheels can make it easy. The most important thing to consider is the age gap between your children. With twins, you’ll want a double pushchair built to carry two children of a similar weight from birth. If you have a preschooler and a newborn, you might want a more versatile buggy with a seat suitable for an older child and a second seat unit or carrycot attachment for the baby. Do you need a double pushchair? Yes, if you’re expecting twins, or if you’re pregnant again and have an older child who’s still going to be using the pushchair by the time the new baby arrives. If this…

DOUBLE PUSHCHAIRS

20% OFF AT JUJUNI

If you’re looking for organic, hardwearing togs for your little tyke, you’ll love new ethical brand JuJuni. Each pair of its gorgeous dungarees has been designed with sustainability and eco-conscious living in mind, with adjustable button-up straps and generous turn ups, so they can be part of your little explorer’s wardrobe for as long as possible. The dungarees are also designed to fit over cloth nappies, so there’s nothing stopping you doing your bit for the environment. Made with hard-wearing GOTScertified cotton, these practical and durable dungarees are built to last and to be handed down. And every aspect is sustainable – right down to the corozo buttons, made from the tagua nut that comes from a tropical palm. JuJuni also has a range of organic cotton T-shirts, featuring woodland…

20% OFF AT JUJUNI

JACKETS SUITS & ACCESSORIES…

IF HE’S GRUMPY… Sometimes a walk in the park isn’t enough to settle your baby, but the SnuzCloud could be just the ticket. The plush, lightweight sleep aid plays four soothing sounds, including a heartbeat and a waterfall, and has two calming lights to help your little passenger relax. £29.95, snuz.co.uk IF HE LIKES BOOKS… He might not be able to read just yet, but if your tot likes to turn pages, he’ll reach straight for the Baby Einstein Magic High Contrast Hanging Toy. Incorporating black and white patterns, as well as bold colours to attract his attention, your little bookworm will love stroking the stimulating textures. £6.99, johnlewis.com IF HE’S SOCIABLE… Everyone likes a bit of company on their travels, and the Skip Hop Bandana Buddies will be your…

TWO MEDELA FREESTYLE FLEX BUNDLES The new Medela Freestyle Flex will help you make your breastfeeding journey easier. It’s lighter and quieter than most other pumps, and with the clever Easy Expression Bustier you can seamlessly fit pumping into your normal routine. The compact design means you can pop the pump in your bag for pumping on the go, and the double action halves the time you need to spend expressing, plus you collect more milk than if you pump each breast in turn. The two-phase let-down mimics your baby’s sucking rhythm, first stimulating the flow and then slowing for a more comfortable, natural feel. You can even pair your pump with the MyMedela app, which records how much milk you’ve expressed and notifies you when the battery is running…

SUPERMARKET buys

Thanks Mum! We know your baby can’t buy the perfect Mother’s Day prezzie (even if he’d like to!), but you deserve a little spoiling – so why not treat yourself? Sainsbury’s Mother’s Day range includes slogan mugs and stylish handbag essentials, as well as a gardening range, with prices starting at just £2. NOSTALGIC FASHION If you’re a fan of Roald Dahl’s stories, you’ll love Marks & Spencer’s new kidswear collection in partnership with Roald Dahl and the Natural History Museum. Made up of essentials like T-shirts and joggers, the collection features some of the author’s best-loved animal characters, alongside facts inspired by the Museum’s collection. Suitable from two years. From £9, marksand spencer.com SPEEDY SUPPER When you’re a busy mum, dinner time can whizz round! Thankfully, baby-food expert Annabel…

SUPERMARKET buys

IN NEXT MONTH’S Mother & Baby

What do your pregnancy cravings really mean? Discover the way the child experts parent their own babies! Boost your little one’s brainpower, with fun games to help you unlock his potential Help your newborn develop good sleep habits from the start – including lots of cuddles! Clever new ways to create a secure bond with your baby – forever! Could a home birth be right for you? We give you the lowdown WIN! Prizes worth more than £2,400! ON SALE MARCH 18 ORDER AT GREATMAGAZINES.CO.UK/MAB AND GET FREE DELIVERY TO YOUR DOOR…

IN NEXT MONTH’S Mother & Baby

Now I’m a mum, I KNOW…

…I JUST NEEDED TO FIND ‘THE ONE’ I’ve never been one of those people who have life milestones all set out – I’ve always just gone with the flow. It wasn’t until I met my partner, Gorka, that I could picture myself having a family. When we moved in together we had a discussion as to whether we both wanted children, which we did, but we agreed there was no rush and that when we were ready we’d see what happened. A year or so later we just stopped being careful – and within three months I was pregnant with Mia! …PREGNANCY WAS A SHOCK I had a Saturday night out for my birthday in November, and I still felt ill by the Wednesday! It was about a week after…

Now I’m a mum,

I KNOW…

Whether you’ve just discovered you’re having your first baby or you’re further along your motherhood journey, knowing just what to buy to keep your little bub safe and to make your life easier and happier can be tough. But don’t worry, we’re here to help! We’ve gathered an army of mums – and their gorgeous babes – to put the products to the test, and have created this super-handy Mother&Baby Best Baby Buys in 2020 mini-mag so you can find the best ones for you. Each and every product on these pages has been put through its paces by real mums, and judged on value for money as well as design, quality and usability, so you can trust them to perform in the real world. Now get out there and…

Innovation of the year

MAXI-COSI JADE WITH 3WAYFIX BASE £428 (INC BASE), MAXI-COSI.CO.UK ‘I’ve never seen anything like this before – the baby can lie completely flat in the car. This is excellent for newborns or premature babies, as I was worried about my baby slipping down and restricting her airways.’ OWLET SMART SOCK £269, OWLETBABYCARE.CO.UK ‘I was anxious when it was time to sleep, and forever checking on my baby, but with the Smart Sock I can rest easy knowing the base station will notify us if there are any issues.’ TOMMEE TIPPEE NO KNOCK CUP £6.99, AMAZON.CO.UK ‘This is the only cup that I have seen that has this type of suction, and it is good to see an open cup that offers a way of drinking safely and cleanly.’ Shortlisted ●…

Innovation of the year

MAMAS AND PAPAS OCARRO £799, MAMASANDPAPAS.COM ‘This made journeys so much easier – the fold is awesome! For a full-size pushchair, with the seat attached, it folds compactly into once piece – it’s so easy, I could do it with one hand. It’s a great choice if you use public transport regularly. I found the hood was perfect on a sunny day; just the right angle to keep bright rays out of my baby’s eyes.’ QUINNY HUBB £639, QUINNY.COM ‘I loved the generous basket space and how low the handlebar can go, meaning that parents of all heights – even very small ones – can use this product! I was impressed by its easy foldability and that you can convert it to a double. It’s future proof, so that means…

Best travel system

INFABABY ULTIMO 3-IN-1 TRAVEL SYSTEM INFABABY.COM ‘This is the perfect travel system. It’s easy to put together and dismantle, and a joy to push. The three wheels make it very easy to navigate – this pushchair is so much more nimble then mine! It fits in my boot very easily, which is something I’ve always struggled with as I have a small car. And it looks quite designer, despite a very reasonable price.’ UPPABABY VISTA TRAVEL SYSTEM (INC MESA I-SIZE CAR SEAT) £1,349.95, NATURALBABY SHOWER.CO.UK ‘This is so easy to collapse, and it folds very small, so it leaves a lot more room in my car boot than normal.It’s very light, and easy to steer one-handed when needed.’ CBX LEOTIE LUX £379.95, AMAZON.CO.UK ‘For value for money it’s second to…

Best travel system

Best lightweight buggy

ERGOBABY METRO £269.90, ERGOBABY.CO.UK ‘This pram is absolutely ideal for holidays. It’s lightweight and takes up little space in the car. Even better, it fits into a bag and can be worn on your back, which makes travelling so much easier. Some lightweight prams lack quality due to being compact, but this is still really sturdy.’ MICRALITE PROFOLD £225, AMAZON.CO.UK ‘This pushchair is so compact and simple to use that it makes life with a little one much easier. It’s great for leaving with baby at the grandparents’, and is lightweight, so convenient to take in and out of the car. It doesn’t take up too much room in the boot, either.’ INFABABY EZEEGO STROLLER INFABABY.COM ‘I think this stroller is a bargain and hard to beat. Having the five-position…

Best lightweight buggy

Best multiple, twin or tandem pushchair

SILVER CROSS COAST £950, SILVERCROSSBABY.COM ‘This pushchair is really stylish and comes equipped with all the modern features. The recline positions for both baby’s body and feet are effortless, and adjust by the pull of a small handle at the rear of the seat. The material is super-soft and padded, and my daughter was so cosy. This is by far the most comfortable, stylish and easiest-to-use pushchair I’ve tried.’ MAMAS AND PAPAS ARMADILLO TWIN £449, MAMASANDPAPAS.COM ‘Stylish, sturdy, and comfy for babies and toddlers. The seats are well padded, and the material is easily cleaned. It fits effortlessly in my car boot and could be wheeled straight onto a bus. It’s easy to fold with one hand, and isn’t too heavy.’ OUT ’N’ ABOUT NIPPER DOUBLE £549.95, OUTNABOUT.COM ‘I prefer…

Best multiple, twin or tandem pushchair

Best rear facing car seat

JOIE BABY I-SPIN 360 £279.99, ARGOS.COM ‘Hooray! No more struggling to tighten straps at an angle to ensure my baby is safe and secure, and no more lifting and back-twisting to place her in her car seat in the first place. This means that I can get my little girl in the car more quickly, and with less strain on my back, which I appreciate enormously, particularly as she’s growing and getting more hefty! It means we can get on our way and on with our day.’ SILVER CROSS MOTION £350, SILVERCROSSBABY.COM ‘Everything from the way this looks to how easy it works is amazing. Installation was a five-minute job, and we didn’t need the instructions. The material is soft, and the seat seems so comfy that I wish I…

Best rear facing car seat

Best forward facing car seat

APRAMO OSTARA FIX GROUP 2/3 SEAT £119, UBERKIDS.COM ‘This car seat was simple to use, and quick and easy to fit. The recline is a brilliant idea, especially for longer journeys where your child can sleep and be comfortable. As a mum with family living 200 miles away, this was really handy! And with the Isofix it meant it was easy to use in both the family car and other vehicles.’ RECARO YOUNG SPORT HERO GROUP 1/2/3 £179, AMAZON.CO.UK ‘My son is very comfortable in this and really enjoys using it. The seat is extra padded and made from a lovely thick material. It’s really lightweight, easy to install, and feels very secure.’ NUNA MYTI £275, SHOPNUNA.CO.UK ‘The fabrics and padding, particularly the insert for smaller children, is of the…

Best forward facing car seat

Best travel product over £30

NUNA SENA AIRE £199, AMAZON.CO.UK ‘This is a superb bit of kit and, most importantly, it’s easy and straightforward to both assemble and pack away. You could spring it up in a matter of minutes. My children both seem content to be in it, and go to sleep easily with minimal fuss – which is a thing of fairy tales!’ MUDDY PUDDLES PUDDLEPAC LINED ALL-IN-ONE £32.95, AMAZON.CO.UK ‘This is an ideal product to keep in a changing bag, and means I don’t need to carry extra clothing in case of the weather changing. And I don’t need to worry if I put my son in his sling, as its lightweight and he won’t overheat.’ JOIE BABY KUBBIE SLEEP £97.99, JOHNLEWIS.COM ‘This has many functions – it can be used as…

Best travel product over £30

Best travel product under £30

SPLASH ABOUT UV SUN & SEA WETSUIT £24.99, SPLASHABOUT.COM ‘The wetsuit is great for our classic British summer, providing warmth in cold water and UV protection on hot days, massively reducing sun-exposed areas on my tot. It’s also easy to put on and, due to the fabric panels down the side, was easier to take off than a full wetsuit, as it had more flexibility. It dried quickly, too!’ COVER ME MULTI-USE COVER £29.99, COVERMEBABY.CO.UK ‘This is such a useful, multifunctional product – it makes life easier as you don’t have to carry lots of different products at once. I used it for breastfeeding, covering a highchair, and even putting on the shopping-trolley seat to make it more hygienic.’ ASDA LITTLE ANGELS 5 MICROWAVE STERILISING BAGS £5, ASDA.COM ‘Ideal for…

Best travel product under £30

Best new mum or maternity skincare

LANSINOH HPA LANOLIN £9.99, AMAZON.CO.UK ‘This was the only cream to heal my sore, cracked nipples. It’s great because it’s safe for babies to ingest, so you don’t need to wipe it off before a feed. The squeezy tube and flip-top cap is so handy.’ MEDELA PURELAN 100 LANOLIN CREAM £6.99, AMAZON.CO.UK ‘I was near to giving up breastfeeding, but this product really saved the day!’ CICALUX – ENERGIZED SCAR CARE FOR C-SECTIONS £69, CICALUX.COM ‘This aided the healing of my c-section scar and helped me get on with life.’ MY EXPERT MIDWIFE SPRITZ FOR BITS £19.50, AMAZON.CO.UK ‘This helped ease the pain after having a little tear, so I could get back to normal much quicker.’ Shortlisted ● FANTASTIC SKIN ELASTIC, MY EXPERT MIDWIFE ● MAGIC FOO MIST, HOLISTIC…

Best new mum or maternity skincare

Best pregnancy or maternity product

ORGANYC MATERNITY PADS £6.99, ORGANYC.UK ‘Having had stitches, I needed something comfortable and effective. These were ideal. I didn’t leak once, they were easy to apply, very soft , and they didn’t irritate my stitches. I wish I had used them after my first two deliveries!’ LANSINOH HPA LANOLIN £9.99, AMAZON.CO.UK ‘Absolutely essential for the first few weeks of breastfeeding. It was really effective at easing the pain of sore, cracked nipples.’ NUVITA DREAMWIZARD £39.99, AMAZON.CO.UK ‘This product is just a dream! I am able to get a much more relaxed sleep.’ Shortlisted ● BOTANICO VIDA OMEGA OIL, BOTANICO VIDA ● MUM TO BE MOISTURISING BUMP BUTTER, NSPA ● NO HARM NIPPLE BALM, MY EXPERT MIDWIFE ● SPATONE APPLE WITH VITAMIN C LIQUID IRON ● SPRITZ FOR BITS, MY EXPERT…

Best pregnancy or maternity product

Best product for a newborn (0–4 months)

POP-IN NEWBORN NAPPY FROM CLOSE £47.99 FOR NEWBORN NAPPY BOX, CLOSEPARENT.COM ‘I would highly recommend this to parents with small babies. I can achieve a good fit on my 6lb baby with no leaks, and the shaping lets them fit small legs. The insert is easy to use, and I like being able to use the wrap again if it isn’t dirty, which means you use fewer.’ MAGNET MOUSE THE ORIGINAL MAGNETIC ONESIE £24.95, MAGNETMOUSE.CO.UK ‘Changing my baby’s nappy is so easy with this onesie, and much quicker. It’s become our go to – I wish I had a cupboard full of them!’ CHILDS FARM BABY MOISTURISER, MILDLY FRAGRANCED £4.50, CHILDSFARM.COM ‘This is a lifesaver when your little one’s got dry skin or eczema patches. The gentle fragrance is soothing,…

Best product for a newborn (0–4 months)

Best cot, crib or Moses basket

JOINT WINNERS CLAIR DE LUNE BEDSIDE CRIB £199.99, CLAIR-DE-LUNE.CO.UK ‘I can easily access my baby without having to get out of bed, and can use the crib in different rooms as it adjusts so well.’ OBABY STAMFORD MINI SLEIGH COT BED £249.95, OBABY.CO.UK ‘This is more compact than other cot beds. I love the drawer underneath, and that it’s light and easy to move for hoovering under.’ THE LITTLE GREEN SHEEP NATURAL KNITTED MOSES BASKET & MATTRESS £79.95, THELITTLEGREEN SHEEP.CO.UK ‘The basket is clearly of great quality, plus it’s breathable and organic. My daughter sleeps well in it, and I can easily keep an eye on her. It looks beautiful and fits well into any decor, plus it’s easy to clean, too.’ SNÜZPOD3 BEDSIDE CRIB £199.95, SNUZ.CO.UK ‘This has been…

Best cot, crib or Moses basket

Best sleep product

WINNER MAM NIGHT SOOTHER 0+ £6.39 FOR TWO, MAMONLINESHOP.COM ‘We absolutely love these soothers. They glow in the dark, which is very helpful when I’m trying to find it in the middle of the night without waking my little one. The shape is perfect for my baby’s mouth – she likes it so much she will not accept any other design! I’m happy knowing that they are approved by dentists, and that using them will not cause any harm to my daughter’s teeth or jaw.’ NATURALMAT QUILTED SPRING MATTRESS £240, NATURALMAT.CO.UK ‘I thought that my current cot mattress was a good one until I put this one next to it. The quality is evident just from looking at it. I love that it provides my child with the support she…

Best sleep product

Best safety product

WINNER AIRFLOW POCKET-SPRUNG MATTRESS BY RELYON ‘My daughter sleeps so well on this mattress – up to 12 hours a night! It provides her with plenty of support, which is so important at this early stage in her life. It’s a quality product and is really breathable.’ ● Former Mothercare product, no longer available JACKLOC KEY LOCKABLE WINDOW RESTRICTOR £17.07, AMAZON.CO.UK ‘Now that my daughter is more mobile, safety around the house is a priority, and this product has been a big help. It’s simple to install on all types of windows. The design is fantastic and looks like it will be long-lasting, so once you’ve bought it, you won’t need to replace it any time soon.’ SLUMBERLAND LUXURY POCKET-SPRUNG MATTRESS £93.95, PRECIOUSLITTLEONE.COM ‘This mattress is specially designed to be…

Best safety product

Best baby monitor

WINNER VTECH VM5261 SAFE & SOUND 5IN PAN/TILT/ ZOOM VIDEO MONITOR £129.99, ARGOS.CO.UK ‘I cannot rate the VTech Safe & Sound monitor highly enough, and would definitely recommend it to all of my mummy friends. The picture is soooo clear and the zoom function is helpful to check if baby is still sleeping soundly. The built-in temperature sensor is very accurate, ensuring baby sleeps safely, and the beautiful lullabies and nature sounds are perfect for helping little ones drift off to sleep.’ BABYMOOV YOO MOOV £179.99, BABYMOOV.CO.UK ‘This is the best monitor I’ve had with all four of my children! I love being able to see him sleep, and the screen is so clear I can easily see his chest moving with each breath. I can see him from any…

Best baby monitor

Best swimming product

WINNER HAPPY NAPPY NEW SPLASH ABOUT NAPPY FROM £10.99, SPLASHABOUT.COM ‘This is a great, reusable item, which reduces waste and saves money, too. It takes up very little space in my suitcase compared to a pack of swim nappies, and also appears more comfortable than a regular disposable swim nappy. It offers UPF 50+ sun protection, which is an added bonus and makes it perfect for the beach. It dries really quickly just with a towel, so can be reused soon after.’ BAMBINO MIO SWIM NAPPY AND RASH TOP £29.99, BAMBINOMIO.CO.UK ‘As an environmentally conscious mum, I’m always looking for ways to reduce waste, and this ticks all the boxes! The nappy is easy to slip on and off, with no fiddly tabs, and the rash top is so comfortable…

Best swimming product

Best bathtime product

WINNER BRUSH BABY FIRST FLOSSBRUSH £1.99, BRUSHBABY.CO.UK ‘The size and shape of this brush is different to all other toothbrush products I have seen on the market, but I quite like it. I find it easy to manoeuvre in my daughter’s mouth and she likes the knobbly surface of the handle to hold or chew on. The toothpaste indicator is a good idea, especially for new mums, when you’re not 100 per cent sure about the amount of toothpaste to use for your child.’ THE SHNUGGLE BATH £24.95, SHNUGGLE.COM ‘This is much easier than using a regular bath and trying to lean in to keep hold of my baby. I feel she is safe, secure and comfortable in it. The shape helped her to feel more relaxed than in a…

Best bathtime product

Best baby skincare range or product

WINNER CHILDS FARM BABY RANGE FROM £2, CHILDSFARM.COM ‘These products are really good value and quality. The baby oil is a favourite of ours, the smell is utterly divine, and it leaves my daughter’s skin soft and well hydrated all day. I also love the variety of bottle sizes – the small ones are so handy to throw in the changing bag.’ BLOOM AND BLOSSOM X THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR – BATH, BOOK & BEDTIME RANGE £18, BLOOMAND BLOSSOM.COM ‘This is beautifully packaged, with easy-to-use bottles which are a good size to hold. The smell is lovely and helps my baby relax before bedtime. It would make a lovely gift.’ CHILDS FARM CORE CHILD RANGE FROM £2.50, CHILDSFARM.COM ‘This range is excellent. The hair and body wash in particular is…

Best baby skincare range or product

Best baby carrier, sling or back carrier

WINNER FREERIDER EUCALYPTUS BABY CARRIER WRAP £69.9 9, FREERIDERCO.COM ‘It allows me to be so close to my baby and have even more cuddles, which I love. And being able to carry her and have two hands free is a breath of fresh air!’ BABYBJÖRN CARRIER MINI £79.99, BABYBJORN.CO.UK ‘This carrier is so easy to use. The instructions are very clear and I loved the fact that it is only made up of two parts, so putting it together and securing baby was quick.’ BECO BABY THE BECO 8 £125, BECOBABY CARRIER.CO.UK ‘I like that it has so many adjustments to personalise it to your baby. You can use it at so many stages of age and development, because of this. I also like that it can be used in…

Best baby carrier, sling or back carrier

WINNER MAMIA SENSITIVE BABY WIPES 64PK 49P, IN STORE IN ALDI ‘These are the perfect everyday wipe. They’re great value, don’t tear when you use them, and are such a good size. I really like how they’re 99.5 per cent natural and have limited added ingredients. This is the reassurance you need for a newborn and as your little ones grow.’ LITTLE GUBBINS REUSABLE BABY WIPES £12.99, LITTLEGUBBINS.COM ‘I used to use loads of wipes at dinner, but now I only need one or two to clean up entirely, and the job is over quicker, too!’ AQUA WIPES £2.70, BOOTS.COM ‘These are very wet, so cleaning my baby was much quicker and his bottom wasn’t sore from rubbing.’ Shortlisted ● AQUA PURE WIPES, PAMPERS ● BABY WIPES NEW BORN, LUPILU,…

Best reusable nappy

WINNER BAMBINO MIO MIOSOLO ALL-IN-ONE £15.99, BAMBINOMIO.CO.UK ‘This is by far the best reusable we have used. It’s durable, and kept my baby dry with no leaking, smells or nappy rash. The nappy itself is easy to clean and dries quickly. As it’s all in one, it’s easy to pack, and I felt very confident in it.’ TOTSBOTS EASYFIT £17.99, TOTSBOTS.COM ‘I found the concept of reusables daunting, but once you get the hang of it, it’s easy – especially as this is a two-in-one. Thanks to the soft fleece liners, my baby hasn’t had any nappy rash.’ TOTSBOTS BAMBOOZLE STRETCH FROM £12.99, TOTSBOTS.COM ‘This nappy has great absorbency and containment, even for my wriggly little one. I was frequently having to change and wash my daughter’s sleeping bag and…

Best reusable nappy

Best performance disposable nappy

WINNER BAMABOO ECOFRIENDLY NATURAL BAMBOO NAPPIES £32 FOR 4 PACKS, AMAZON.CO.UK ‘These nappies are soft, comfy, and easy to use. We didn’t experience any leaks or nappy rash. They’re easy to dispose of, and it’s lovely to know they’re biodegradable – it makes you feel better about using a disposable.’ PAMPERS PURE PROTECTION NAPPIES £9, OCADO.CO.UK ‘We haven’t had any leaks, which means less washing. The wetness indicator is great for peace of mind.’ PAMPERS BABY DRY NAPPIES AND NAPPY PANTS £5, OCADO.CO.UK ‘These hold a lot, fit well, and wick away moisture, so they’re kind to my baby’s skin.’ Shortlisted ● FRED & FLO NEWBORN NAPPIES, TESCO ● LITTLE ANGELS COMFORT & PROTECT NAPPY PANTS – PEPPA PIG RANGE, ASDA ● MAMIA NAPPY RANGE, ALDI ● NEWBORN NAPPIES SIZE…

Best performance disposable nappy

Best value disposable nappy

WINNER LUPILU EXTRA LARGE NAPPIES SIZE 6 £2.04, IN STORE IN LIDL ‘We like the design and fit, and my baby seems comfortable while wearing these. They’re quick and easy to put on, which is a bonus.’ LUPILU NAPPIES SIZE 1 89P IN STORE IN LIDL ‘These perform as well as the premium brand I usually use, for a fraction of the price. They have not leaked at all .’ MAMIA NAPPY RANGE FROM 79P, IN STORE IN ALDI ‘These are very absorbent, fit well, and we’ve not had any nappy rash.’ Shortlisted ● FRED & FLO NEWBORN NAPPIES, TESCO ● JUNIOR NAPPIES SIZE 5, LUPILU, LIDL ● LITTLE ANGELS COMFORT & PROTECT NAPPY PANTS, ASDA ● MIDI NAPPIES SIZE 3, LUPILU, LIDL…

Best value disposable nappy

Best teething product

WINNER MATCHSTICK MONKEY TEETHING TOY £9.99, MATCHSTICK MONKEY.COM ‘The design makes it easy for my six-month-old to hold and use. The nobbly part on the monkey’s head is good for putting teething gel on, and you can also put it in the fridge, which helps to soothe.’ ROOBA BOO THE BUNNY £8.95, ROOBA.CO.UK ‘This is so lightweight, with a perfect texture for sore gums. Its eco-friendliness makes me feel better about using it.’ MATCHSTICK MONKEY LUDO LION TEETHER £9.99, MATCHSTICKMONKEY.COM ‘This keeps my little one entertained on the go. I can attach it to the pushchair so it stays with us.’ Shortlisted ● SILICONE TEETHER, BORRN ● CHEWABLE TOOTHBRUSH, BRUSH-BABY ● NANA & CORN TEETHERS, NUBY ● SOPHIE LA GIRAFE - IL ÉTAIT UNE FOIS (ONCE UPON A TIME) GIFT…

Best teething product

Best potty training product (excluding disposable nappies)

WINNER MY CARRY POTTY £26.99, MYCARRY POTTY.COM ‘This potty is durable and easy to transport. My husband “tested” it with water before we started using it, and there were no leaks. It’s easy to wipe clean after each use.’ NUBY MY REAL POTTY £30, NUBY-UK.COM ‘My daughter had occasionally used our old potty but uses this one all the time, which has really helped with potty training.’ SUMMER INFANT MY SIZE POTTY TRAIN & TRANSITION £29.99, AMAZON.CO.UK ‘My son has now taken to potty training because he has his own toilet, making it much easier.’ Shortlisted ● BAGIT DISPOSABLE NAPPY BIN, MUNCHKIN ● PAW PATROL & PEPPA PIG STEADY POTTY, SOLUTION EU ● TRON DISPOSABLE TRAVEL POTTY, HIPPYCHICK…

Best potty training product (excluding disposable nappies)

Best changing bag

WINNER MIA TUI JENNIE TRAVEL CHANGING BAG £55, MIATUI.COM ‘The best thing about this bag is the thought that has gone into its design. There are two insulated bottle holders; a changing mat kit with a lightly padded mat perfect to use on public changing tables or for an al fresco change; pockets for creams and wipes; and room in the pouch for nappies, too. It’s easy to grab when out and about, and although you can fit everything in, you can also find anything really easily.’ LÄSSIG GREEN LABEL GOLDIE DIAPER BACKPACK, BOUCLÉ £114.06, AMAZON.CO.UK ‘I absolutely love this: it’s the perfect mix of style, strength, practicality and quality. What I like most is that the main section opens up, giving a really clear view of what you have.…

Best changing bag

Best product for bottle feeding

WINNER MILTON BABY BOTTLE CLEANER £3.19, BOOTS.COM ‘This product is so simple and effective to use. The quality of the wash and the finish it gives to baby bottles is fantastic. It’s also easy to transport if you’re going away, and can be used anywhere, which is a massive bonus. It’s biodegradable, which is a huge plus for me, and is made for sensitive skin – which is a huge plus for just about everyone!’ TOMMEE TIPPEE PERFECT PREP DAY & NIGHT £129.99, TOMMEETIPPEE.COM ‘This machine saves so much time in my day, and makes preparing a bottle much faster. I really don’t know how I ever coped without it! There’s no need to boil water, wait for it to cool and put it into flasks ready to use throughout…

Best product for bottle feeding

Best product for breastfeeding

WINNER LANSINOH HPA LANOLIN £9.99, AMAZON.CO.UK ‘Sore, cracked nipples are one of the least fun parts about being a new mum, but this cream definitely helps! It’s hard to anticipate whether you’ll run into problems when attempting breastfeeding, but this cream eases sore nipples really quickly. When going through the hours of cluster feeding, you can slather some on and get some much-needed relief.’ JUNO JACK’S BREASTFEEDING TWINNING SETS £34.98, JUNOJACKS.CO.UK ‘This top makes breastfeeding in public fast and discreet, particularly if your baby is easily distracted and turns away from the breast a lot! The zip makes it totally fuss free. I haven’t seen anything else like this on the market – it made the whole process easier.’ VITAL BABY NURTURE EASY POUR BREAST MILK STORAGE BAGS £6.99, JOHNLEWIS.COM…

Best product for breastfeeding

Best breast pump

WINNER ELVIE PUMP £249, ELVIE.COM ‘This pump is amazing. As a busy mum of two I rarely had time to sit down and pump before, as someone always needed me, but with the Elvie I can pump and get on with doing mum things at the same time. The other day I made dinner while pumping! Not being restrained by leads and tubing has revolutionised my routine.’ MEDELA SWING MAXI FLEX £239.99, AMAZON.CO.UK ‘I love this because it’s intuitive and easy to use. It makes a tiresome job much quicker. It can also be adapted into a double pump, and is simple to disassemble, sterilise, and then reassemble.’ VITAL BABY NURTURE FLEXCONE ELECTRIC AND MANUAL PUMP £99.99, VITALBABY.COM ‘This is so comfortable. I’d bought another pump and found it really…

Best breast pump

WINNER CHICCO POLLY MAGIC RELAX £139.99, AMAZON.CO.UK ‘This is a large, comfortable, easy-to-clean highchair, which is easily folded down, making it perfect if you have limited space for storage. It’s also on wheels, so you can move it around easily, which is great for the summer months – it’s simple to move outside and enjoy dinner al fresco. The chair also has several toys and is incredibly sturdy and well built.’ CHILDHOME EVOLU ONE.80° £192.95, CHILDHOME.COM ‘It’s a beautiful design, which also comes in grey – a very trendy colour at the moment that will match a lot of people’s interiors. It’s very well built, great quality, and super-practical. The five-point harness makes it safe for any age, with no fear of the child falling out.’ JOIE BABY MULTIPLY 6IN1…

Best feeding product for weaning

WINNER MUNCHKIN COLOUR ME HUNGRY £19.99, AMAZON.CO.UK ‘Since using this, I have seen a huge improvement in my son’s self-feeding habits, so this has become our go-to set. The bowl is deep enough that he can try scooping food onto his spoon without it falling out. All the pieces are thick and sturdy, so I don’t have to worry about dropping plates.’ MUNCHKIN MIRACLE 360 TRAINER CUP £8.49, AMAZON.CO.UK ‘This product is fabulous. In terms of making my life easier, it’s really simple to clean compared to other cups we’ve tried. The cup dismantles into three pieces, which are all dishwasher safe, saving me lots of time and giving me confidence that it’s hygienic for my baby.’ VITAL BABY NOURISH WEANING AND FEEDING RANGE FROM £2.49, AMAZON.CO.UK ‘The materials are…

Best feeding product for weaning

Best baby food range or product

WINNER KIDDYUM CHEESY PEASY PASTA £2, SAINSBURYS.CO.UK ‘This fantastic product will make the lives of mums so much easier. It’s so easy and quick to prepare, and I particularly love the fact that it uses all-natural ingredients and is made in the UK, plus the packaging can be recycled. I feel very happy to use this when I’m unable to cook from scratch.’ MAMIA BREAKFAST POUCH RANGE 59P, IN STORE IN ALDI ‘This product makes breakfast time less of a stress, and takes away the dilemma of what to feed my fussy eater. If she’s refusing food, I can give her a pouch of this (which she likes) and then I know she has had a nutritious breakfast, making me feel more calm.’ LUPILU ORGANIC BABY FRUIT POUCHES STAGE 1…

Best baby food range or product

WINNER SWEET DREAMERS EWAN DELUXE £39.99, SWEETDREAMERS.CO.UK ‘This has been an amazing addition to our baby’s room. Since using it, he falls asleep quicker and easier. The new “shush” noise is our favourite. From the moment he hears it, he instantly calms down, and relates this to sleep. The glowing light also creates a calm and tranquil atmosphere in his room.’ PLAYGRO CLIP CLOP ACTIVITY RATTLE £6.99, SMYTHSTOYS.COM ‘It’s so colourful and soft, with lots of different activities and features such as beads and a rattle. It’s great for babies to chew on, cuddle and play with. It has a hoop that’s easy to grip, too. It’s a great product – I would definitely buy this.’ MATCHSTICK MONKEY ANTIMICROBIAL MONKEY TEETHER £9.99, AMAZON.CO.UK ‘I’ve always been a fan of a…

Best toddler toy

WINNER LEGO DUPLO MY FIRST ANIMAL BRICK BOX £24.99, LEGO.COM ‘This product keeps my little one entertained due to all the different aspects of the toy. I love how easily cleanable the bricks are, and the included box makes it easy to tidy at the end of playing – my little one helps, encouraging new skills. I love how sturdy this product is, meaning a long shelf life – it can be passed down to younger children when my child gets too old for it.’ SMARTMAX MY FIRST TOTEM £14.99, RIDEONTOYS4U.CO.UK ‘My little boy loves this toy. It helps him develop his co-ordination and encourages him to create new totems each time he plays, meaning his imagination grows, too. The magnetic idea is great – my son finds it hilarious…

Best toddler toy

In This Issue

Description

Details

Reviews

Recent Digital Issues Browse all

Recent Mother & Baby Digital Issues Browse all back issues

Mother & Baby (Digital) Subscription January 1st, 2020 Issue

Mother & Baby (Digital) January 2020: $3.11

Mother & Baby (Digital) Subscription December 1st, 2019 Issue

Mother & Baby (Digital) December 2019: $3.11

Mother & Baby (Digital) Subscription November 1st, 2019 Issue

Mother & Baby (Digital) November 2019: $3.11

Mother & Baby (Digital) Subscription October 1st, 2019 Issue

Mother & Baby (Digital) October 2019: $3.11

Mother & Baby (Digital) Subscription July 1st, 2020 Issue

Mother & Baby (Digital) July 2020: $3.11

Mother & Baby (Digital) Subscription June 1st, 2020 Issue

Mother & Baby (Digital) June 2020: $3.11

Mother & Baby (Digital) Subscription May 1st, 2020 Issue

Mother & Baby (Digital) May 2020: $3.11

Mother & Baby (Digital) Subscription April 1st, 2020 Issue

Mother & Baby (Digital) April 2020: $3.11

Mother & Baby (Digital) Subscription March 1st, 2020 Issue

Mother & Baby (Digital) March 2020: $3.11

Mother & Baby (Digital) Subscription February 1st, 2020 Issue

Mother & Baby (Digital) February 2020: $3.11

Mother & Baby (Digital) Subscription January 1st, 2020 Issue

Mother & Baby (Digital) January 2020: $3.11

Mother & Baby (Digital) Subscription December 1st, 2019 Issue

Mother & Baby (Digital) December 2019: $3.11

Mother & Baby (Digital) Subscription November 1st, 2019 Issue

Mother & Baby (Digital) November 2019: $3.11

Mother & Baby (Digital) Subscription October 1st, 2019 Issue

Mother & Baby (Digital) October 2019: $3.11

Mother & Baby (Digital) Subscription July 1st, 2020 Issue

Mother & Baby (Digital) July 2020: $3.11

Mother & Baby (Digital) Subscription June 1st, 2020 Issue

Mother & Baby (Digital) June 2020: $3.11

Mother & Baby (Digital) Subscription May 1st, 2020 Issue

Mother & Baby (Digital) May 2020: $3.11

Mother & Baby (Digital) Subscription April 1st, 2020 Issue

Mother & Baby (Digital) April 2020: $3.11

Customers Also Viewed

NME Special Collectors’ Magazine: Arctic Monkeys Magazine (Digital) Subscription September 5th, 2013 Issue

NME Special Collectors’ Magazine: Arctic Monkeys Magazine (Digital)

NME Special Collectors�� Magazine Arctic Monkeys: $5.98

Handguns Magazine (Digital) Subscription June 1st, 2025 Issue

Handguns Magazine (Digital)

6 Issues: $19.94 ~~$29.94~~

American Frontiersman (Digital) Subscription March 1st, 2023 Issue

American Frontiersman (Digital)

Spring 2023: $3.97

VTT Magazine HS (Digital) Subscription January 9th, 2015 Issue

VTT Magazine HS (Digital)

HS E-Bike 2015 - Special: $8.37

Deer & Deer Hunting Magazine (Digital) Subscription April 1st, 2025 Issue

Deer & Deer Hunting Magazine (Digital)

(7)

11 Issues: $10.19 ~~$43.45~~

Good Housekeeping Christmas Collection Magazine (Digital) Subscription October 1st, 2016 Issue

Good Housekeeping Christmas Collection Magazine (Digital)

Good Housekeeping Christmas Collection 2016: $5.57

Bicycling Magazine (Digital) Subscription March 28th, 2025 Issue

Bicycling Magazine (Digital)

(104)

4 Issues: $19.99 ~~$39.96~~

African Hunting Gazette Magazine (Digital) Subscription September 25th, 2024 Issue

African Hunting Gazette Magazine (Digital)

4 Issues: $45.00 ~~$51.80~~

Mother & Baby (Digital) Subscription July 1st, 2020 Issue

Mother & Baby (Digital)

August 2020: $3.11

The Independent Guide to the iPhone 4 Magazine (Digital) Subscription October 4th, 2010 Issue

The Independent Guide to the iPhone 4 Magazine (Digital)

The Independent Guide to the iPhone 4: $5.20

NME Special Collectors’ Magazine: Arctic Monkeys Magazine (Digital) Subscription September 5th, 2013 Issue

NME Special Collectors’ Magazine: Arctic Monkeys Magazine (Digital)

NME Special Collectors�� Magazine Arctic Monkeys: $5.98

Handguns Magazine (Digital) Subscription June 1st, 2025 Issue

Handguns Magazine (Digital)

6 Issues: $19.94 ~~$29.94~~

American Frontiersman (Digital) Subscription March 1st, 2023 Issue

American Frontiersman (Digital)

Spring 2023: $3.97

VTT Magazine HS (Digital) Subscription January 9th, 2015 Issue

VTT Magazine HS (Digital)

HS E-Bike 2015 - Special: $8.37

Deer & Deer Hunting Magazine (Digital) Subscription April 1st, 2025 Issue

Deer & Deer Hunting Magazine (Digital)

(7)

11 Issues: $10.19 ~~$43.45~~

Good Housekeeping Christmas Collection Magazine (Digital) Subscription October 1st, 2016 Issue

Good Housekeeping Christmas Collection Magazine (Digital)

Good Housekeeping Christmas Collection 2016: $5.57

Bicycling Magazine (Digital) Subscription March 28th, 2025 Issue

Bicycling Magazine (Digital)

(104)

4 Issues: $19.99 ~~$39.96~~

African Hunting Gazette Magazine (Digital) Subscription September 25th, 2024 Issue

African Hunting Gazette Magazine (Digital)

4 Issues: $45.00 ~~$51.80~~

Reviews