nest contraption—namely, by putting it in a bowl of warmed water or running warm tap water over its sides. But some parents swear by their bottle warmers, because some babies are more particular than others about having their meals at the right temperature. These devices make it easy to get things thoroughly and evenly warmed quickly. Plus, there are no dishes to wash afterward. If you plan to breastfeed, be careful. Some bottle warmers may not be approved for breast milk, as they may change the properties of the milk. Others, like the Kiinde Kozii, were made for breast milk, but you might find you’re just fine going the warm-water route. (Remember: Never microwave breast milk.) Our recommendation? Register for a bottle warmer if you think you’ll use it. Look for one that also heats baby food, so you get double-duty out of it and make sure all the bottles you plan to use fit in it. And save the receipt just in case you don’t take it out of the box. What’s the difference between a rocking chair and a glider? How do I choose a good one? The big distinction is the way they move. Rockers rock in an arc, while gliders move forward and back (and some swivel too). Gliders tend to offer a smoother
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ride; plus, they’re designed not to trap toes underneath, like a rocker can. A matching ottoman is often available too. Sit in the glider. Does it give you and baby plenty of support? Is there enough room to wiggle around? Do your feet rest comfortably on the floor and on the ottoman? Check how easily it reclines and locks (if you want those features) and whether the motion feels smooth to you. Does the fabric feel comfy against your skin? Also, opt for a woven fabric that won’t fray and is a breeze to clean.
How exactly do I wash cloth diapers? Hot water will set in stains and soils (ick), so first give dirty diapers a quick cold rinse sans detergent, to flush away poop and How can I interest my partner (and encourage excitement) urine. Then wash in our baby registry? them on hot with It’s good to get him involved in a cloth-friendly all the products you’ll be buying. detergent. For It will help him feel essential, extra sanitizing, plus he’ll be using them and he add an oxygenated needs to know how they work. bleach. Check your Don’t overwhelm him Plan to detergent’s label take a few short trips instead of for enzymes and a marathon registry run. Maybe fragrances—they check out strollers online together before you go to the can leave residue. store, so you’re on the same Many parents use page. He’ll feel much more eco-friendly soaps. prepared and less stressed. Liz Turrigiano, Hype up the things he’ll love cofounder of What are his interests? Sports, Diaperkind, likes maybe? Mention that there’s a Biokleen, Planet baby Eagles jersey at the store. Music? A Pink Floyd lullaby CD. and Charlie’s Soap. Techie stuff? There’s a stroller that folds by itself and charges your smartphone. Hand him the scanner gun Let him have control, and he’ll feel involved in the process, which will leave him more invested in getting it done right.
Plan baby’s nursery at TheBump.com/nursery