*Illustration by Parchment & Pixel
All good things in life comes in waves and The Frosted Petticoat headquarters just got hit with a tsunami! That’s right, the staff is having a bit of a baby boom and we’re up to our necks in all things chubby. As many soon-to-be parents could probably sympathize, we are over our heads! The plethora of products and services can be a tad bit overwhelming, to say the least. So with our own little staff “expansion” taking place, we decided to share our picks for the best baby products of Spring 2015. From maternity wear to nursery decor to stroller duds, we’ve got you covered. For an extra special treat, make sure to enter the sweepstakes at the end of the post, where we’ll be giving away over $1,300 worth of prizes to one lucky winner!
The Best of Spring 2015
Mountain Buggy
Urban Jungle Luxury Collection: You know that amazing French Riviera inspired handbag you’ve been daydreaming about? Well they just made it into a stroller! Mountain Buggy just launched their new Urban Jungle luxury collection. Available in Nautical and Pepita, the collection offers refined styling and luxury aesthetic, including leather detailing, reversible print fabrics, and a matching diaper bag. Made of premium, durable canvas fabrics and leather details, it’s sure to be a show-stopper. And the best part, it’s car seat compatible so it can transition with your baby through all their growing pains. Our staff couldn’t believe how easy this stroller was to assemble. It was a very smooth ride for the little one and elicited tons of admiring looks on the street!
*Giveaway Participant - enter below!
Natural Sheepskin
Icelandic Sheepskin Rug: It’s every parent’s dream to create a world of cotton candy and clouds for their little one. So, why not start with some luxurious sheepskin?! All the way from Iceland, this stunning sheepskin rug is made from rare breeds. Completely natural and un-dyed, the wool is very thick, long, and soft to the touch. Perfect for tummy time and reading their favorite story with grandma! Warning: May cause the uncontrollable urge to rub your face in the fur.
Puj
Splash Newborn Bath Set: Bath time is an important activity for baby-parent bonding! However, the infant bathtubs available are often very bulky. So what do you do when you live in a small space? Puj has come up with a fantastic solution. Their Splash Newborn Bath Set is the perfect gift for any expecting parent (especially one with limited space). The set comes with a hooded infant towel, three soft wash cloths, and grippy hooks for drying. But most impressive is the foldable tub. Small enough to fit in most bathroom and kitchen sinks, it’s made of mold and mildew resistant material. Comfy for baby and parent. Our staff absolutely loved the packaging and practicality of this product.
Baby Home
Wave: If you’ve perused the aisles of Babies R’ Us lately, then you know that most bouncers are bulky and only come in primary colors. But what about the stylish parent with minimal room? Baby Home has the solution with their Wave bouncer. An innovative bounce chair, this gorgeously designed product is both stylish and practical. It's made with a gorgeous and sturdy wood. Baby can rock in two different seating positions, and when they’re done it folds completely flat. And the best part? The fabric seat detaches for easy cleaning! The only downside is that your adult guests may attempt to sit in it!
Olive & Cocoa
Lulu Lamb & Blankie: If you’re short on ideas for an upcoming baby shower, then Olive & Cocoa is your place to go. Our staff recently received their Lulu Lamb & Blankie set and we were in awe of the quality. First of all, it arrived in a stunning keepsake wood crate box and was tied with a huge satin ribbon. Inside was the softest baby blanket and little lamb you could ever imagine. It is literally the perfect gift for a little one! Warning: Receiving this product may cause the irrational expectation that all items should arrive in a keepsake wood crate.
Cage & Lantern
Tan Suede Leather Baby Moccasins: Every parent wants their baby to live in the softest world possible. And that’s why we’re loving these Leather Baby Moccasins by Cage & Lantern. Made with love in the USA, these handmade cuties are perfect for tiny, adventuring feet. With an elastic opening and cork insoles, they’re wonderfully comfy for those first crucial steps.
Angels On My Pillow
"Luxe Collection" Wrapaboo: Be prepared for some major "Oh's" and "Ah's" when you whip out this cookie! Never has cuddle time been sweeter than with this Wrapaboo plush blanket with enveloping angel wings. *Squeal* The staff went crazy over the ridiculously soft fabric and heavenly design. The patented soft structured receiving blanket comes in a classic natural cotton tote with a satin ribbon closure, perfectly presentable as a thoughtful baby shower gift. Best of all, it's machine washable, non-allergenic, and assembled in the USA. Please note that this product is intended to be used as a comforting way for loved ones and young siblings to hold a newborn and is not recommended for use during unsupervised sleep. Our only complaint is that the company doesn't make these in adult sizes!
Feltman Brothers
Bubble with Pintucks & Lace: Ever since my biological clock started ticking, I have perused the Feltman Brothers catalogue mentally dressing my unborn offspring. With 100 years of experience, this company knows how to dress a baby. So you can imagine my delight when we received the Bubble romper. With throwbacks to Victorian England, this sweet piece is made with pintucks, puffed sleeves, and a delicate inserted lace yolk made from a long lasting woven cotton/poly blend. To top it all off, it’s machine washable! *Swoon!*
Leota
Quilted Arrows Maxi Tank Dress: With a torso the size of a watermelon, dressing for a day out can be a bit challenging. What’s even more so is that warm-weather has arrived. You want to be comfy but also look stylish. *Cue Leota!* This wonderful company makes comfy maternity dresses without compromising fashion. Made in New York City from European Gloss Knit, the pieces are quality through and through. One of our staff members received the Quilted Arrows dress to test out and to be honest… we haven’t been able to get her out of it!
Tiny Little Nest
Woodland Animal Baby Nursery Mobile: If you’re anything like me, then you like supporting hardworking small businesses… especially if they produce a fantastic product. If that’s so, then you’re going to love Tiny Little Nest. This amazingly creative shop takes a different approach to mobiles with their classic-meets-modern designs. Our staff favorite is the Woodland Animal. The mobile features a bear, deer, fox, owl, rabbit, and squirrel with a beautiful wheat pattern design. Each mobile is laser-cut and hand-assembled from sustainably harvested hard maple, which is grown in the USA. The only downside? You might stare at it more than the baby!
D-Link
HD Pan & Tilt Wi-Fi Baby Camera: Technology is expanding in leaps and bounds… so why not bring it into the nursery?! D-Link’s baby camera is the wave of the future. Not only does it monitor your sleeping baby, it’s all done remotely through an app on your phone, iPad, or computer. But that’s not all! You can pan and tilt the camera, turn on night vision, receive sound and motion detection alerts, check the room temperature, play a pre-recorded lullaby, take video and snapshots, and even talk to your baby… all through your remote devices! Hubba, hubba! The downside? Well, personally my husband likes to login remotely from work and make zombie sounds whenever I enter the nursery. Download on hubby’s phone with caution!
Diono
Rainier Convertible Booster Car Seat: We know that safety is your number one priority as a new parent. That’s why we can’t stop raving about Diono’s new Ranier car seat. It is the ultimate in car seat safety with new extra deep side walls providing enhanced side impact protection. With its extended rear-facing capabilities, it can comfortably seat rear-facing children from 5 to 50 pounds and forward-facing children from 20 to 90 pounds in 5-point harness mode. Additionally it converts to a booster for children between 50 and 120 pounds. And most importantly, the Rainier is NCAP crash tested which is the industry benchmark for verifying child seat performance in severe accident conditions. We love it!
Shoosha
Organic Skin Care Products: With their uber sensitive skin, you want to make sure you use only the safest products on baby. So, Shoosha has come up with a line of USDA certified organic skin care products for baby and mom. Our staff was lucky enough to test out some of these products and we had a few favorites. The “Calm Baby Massage Oil” is infused with food-grade organic herbs and oils for baby’s delicate massage. The “Replenish Baby Lotion” is the perfect blend of plant oils and extracts to hydrate, soothe, and protect baby’s delicate skin. The “Gentlest Baby Wash & Shampoo” provides a perfect balance of moisturizing and cleansing that will not strip your baby’s natural oils. Shoosha also has some great products for mom! In particular we loved the “Rejuvenate Stretch Mark Serum” and the “Rescue Nipple Balm”.
Bert & Bratt
Pure-Go Pacifier UV Sterilizer: We’ve all been guilty of the mom sterilization technique. You know, the one when baby drops their pacifier on the floor, you pick it up and clean it in your mouth, and then give it back to baby. Yuck! Well, Bert & Bratt has your solution to this dirty predicament. They’ve created a portable pacifier sterilizer. The product has a small UVGI light that kills germs using a dual-action process. The oxygen in the air reacts with a range of 254 nm wavelengths creating ozone to safely eliminate up to 99.9% of germs and bacteria. All you have to do is place the pacifier inside, push and hold button until light flashes. When flashing has stopped, sterilization has occurred. Our staff particularly liked that it was small enough to fit in most diaper bags. A great buy!
Little Me
Playful Puppies Cardigan: Dressing your baby is one of the many wonderful perks of childbirth! Especially when you find out that companies like Little Me exist! With adorable duds, you can’t help but smile when perusing their selection. One of our staff members received the Playful Puppies Cardigan and couldn’t stop cooing! The cable knit sweater is made of 100% cotton and features a hood with bunny ears and an adorable star print inner lining. Best of all? It’s machine washable, baby!
Babymoov
Nutribaby Food Processor: Looking to make your own baby food at home? Then look no further than Babymoov’s Nutribaby. This food processor steam cooks meals, purees, warms baby bottles, sterilizes, defrosts, and blends. It can warm and sterilize up to 3 bottles at a time. It has the largest capacity on the market (so no more mini meals!) and an easy to use LCD screen. And as an extra perk, it’s super cute! Our staff was surprised at the many ways it could be used and it’s ease of use.
Eastwitching
Wilderness Wreath Nursery Art: The Frosted Petticoat staff is in full nesting mode right now. And the best solution? Decorate the nursery! With Eastwitching’s adorable art prints, this is a pretty easy task. We received the Wilderness Wreath set and couldn’t be more pleased. Featuring a fox, bunny, fawn and bear each in an adorable wreath, they’ll add whimsy and magic to your little one’s room. We were impressed with the amazing quality of the prints… they look like originals in person! This UK based artist is ridiculously talented, so make sure to check out their wonderful array of prints in their shop.
*Giveaway Participant - enter below!
PacaPod
Hastings Driftwood Changing Bag: Let’s face it, most (if not all) diaper bags are designed for moms. But what about dads?! In come’s PacaPod! Their Hastings changing bag is sure to please both the most discerning dad and stylish mom. This gorgeous backpack diaper bag is both appealing and practical. Inside it features an array of compartments: a flat pack changer pod, flat pack cooler, changing mat, and stroller handle clips. The fabric is durable with fine stripe detail with pebble faux leather trims and the pods inside wipe clean. Side effect – Dad won’t cringe at the thought of lugging it around!
*Giveaway Participant - enter below!
Belabumbum
Fleur Nursing Bra & Panty Set: There is a common misconception out in the stratosphere that needs to change: Once you’ve given birth, you’re no longer a sexy woman… you’re just a mom. Well, ladies it’s time to revolt! And with the help of Belabumbum, I think we have a fighting chance. This wonderful shop has a lovely selection of sexy and beautiful maternity wear. In particular, our staff loves the Fleur Nursing Bra & Panty Set. The bra provides great coverage, one handed drop down nursing clasps, and a smooth profile with cotton lined mesh cups in a pretty floral print. Best of all it’s wireless and has an expandable back closure. Hallelujah! Side effects may include high self-esteem and an overall “day-um” factor.
*Giveaway Participant - enter below!
Pello
Majestic Floor Pillow: Looking for an alternative to the overdone play mat? Then check out the Pello! Designed by a mom for a well-loved baby, pello is a luxe floor pillow that goes beyond the standard play mat, positioning pillow, or baby gym. Baby will feel cuddled in the soft center and you will feel better knowing that no matter which way baby topples, their head is protected. Great for promoting muscle development and tummy time. In addition, the loops around the pello are great for attaching baby’s favorite toys for extra stimulation.
NaturalMat USA
Organic Top Mat: Our staff is all about organic, but the reality is that it can be a pricey lifestyle. So if you’re looking to add some organic touches to the little one’s nursery, then you’re going to love Naturalmat. They’ve created a crib top mat that is an economical way of turning your crib into an organic one. Two layers of organic lambswool are contained within this overlay and help regulate baby’s temperature. The lambswool is also treated with essential oils including lavender, lemon and eucalyptus, which protect against bed bugs and dust mites. An extra perk, it can be packed away and used on vacation or when visiting family. Perfect for nap time at grandma’s house!
*Giveaway Participant - enter below!
Bunnies By The Bay
Bunny Beanie & Booties Set: If you haven’t heard of Bunnies by the Bay, then drop everything you’re doing and go to their website right now! Go! Their whimsical clothing are the stuff that dreams are made of. One of our (very lucky!) staff members received their Bunny Beanie & Booties set and hasn’t stopped raving about it. It arrived nestled inside a delightful gift box with sweet decorative tissue paper. The product is a delicately crocheted bunny hat and fuzzy faced bunny booties. Perfectly gift ready! Our only complaint… they don’t make adult sizes!
ASOS Maternity
Bardot Midi Skater Dress in Berry: When you’re sporting a big belly, date night fashion becomes a bit of a challenge. Well ASOS has your solution and it’s in the form of the Bardo Midi Skater Dress! This chic frock finds the perfect balance between comfort and style. Harking back to the days of Old Hollywood glamor, the off-shoulder bandeau neckline and empire seam are sure to flatter every frame. Most importantly, it’s made of stretch fabric and is super comfy. A side effect of wearing the dress may include admiring looks from perfect strangers.
Bea & Me Boutique
Felt Mushroom Garland: When most people think of nursery décor, they often go to the basics: crib, curtains, rocking chair, mobile. But we like to think it’s actually the little details that really pull a nursery together. That’s why our staff loves this felt mushroom garland by Bea & Me Boutique. The garland features 12 hand stitched felt mushrooms that slide into position on an 84 inch jute cord. We plan to use it as decoration at a staff member’s baby shower and then gifting it to her as nursery décor afterwards. A wonderful, versatile gift!
Double Blessings
San Diego Bebe Eco Nursing Pillow: Since becoming pregnant, I’ve been eliciting the advice of all the skilled parents in my life. What products work the best? What essentials do I need? And the overwhelming answer is – nursing pillow! So you can imagine my delight when Double Blessings sent me their San Diego Bebe Eco Nursing Pillow. Made from Eco*Loft fiber, the pillow is hypo-allergenic, no fire-retardant chemicals, odor-free, glue-free, foam-free, and Phthalate-free. It features a detachable back pillow for mom and dual pockets for water bottles, a phone, and a remote control. In addition, the pillow has a privacy cover that completely covers baby and mom’s chest for modesty. Best of all, the cover is easily removable and completely machine washable!
Beatriz Ball
Baby Elephant Frame: Looking for some special keepsake treasures to commemorate the birth of your little one? Then Beatriz Ball is the vendor for you. This fantastic shop has a gorgeous array of heirloom items to celebrate your munchkin's milestones. We received the Baby Elephant Frame and couldn’t have been more impressed. The stunning frame shined and shimmered to perfection. It also arrived gift-ready in a velvet bag and tied with a satin ribbon. A wonderful gift idea for the new parents!
Designs by Tati
Felt Baby Hedgehog Set: If you’re anything like me, then you’re sick of seeing the same toys sticking out of the strollers that pass you on the street. Whatever happened to handmade toys? Well, the lovely Etsy shop Designs by Tati has continued on the lost tradition. When our staff received their Felt Baby Hedgehog set in the mail, uncontrollable cooing broke out in the office. Each Baby Hedgehog is handmade and has its own look and personality. Measuring at about 4 1/2 inch tall, it’s the perfect grip size for the munchkin. And the cherry on top is that the set comes with a handmade pillow and blanket. It’s so adorable, it almost makes me angry!
Baby Elephant Ears
White Minky Ears: Anyone who’s ever pushed a baby around in a stroller knows, their little frames instantly become bobble heads. Cruising over bumps and making sharp turns can really do a number on the munchkin’s neck (especially with that huge noggin swinging about). Baby Elephant Ears has an adorable solution to this problem. They’ve developed a wonderful ear pillow to support the little one’s neck and head during travel. Not only is the ear design adorable, the ultra-soft white minky fabric makes the pillow wonderfully cozy for your little one. The only downside? Passers-by on the street will squeal at the sight of your baby!
Now that you’ve seen our favorite baby products for Spring, it’s time to giveaway $1,300 worth of prizes to one lucky reader! Some of the amazing products from the guide are included, but we’ve also added some of our other favorite products up for grabs. Check out the prize list and make sure to enter below…
Giveaway Prizes
Mountain Buggy - $100 Gift Certificate
Prize: $100 Gift Certificate
Cienta Shoes USA - 1 pair of shoes (ARV $40)
Prize: 1 pair of shoes (ARV $40)
Isabelle Grace Jewelry - Bloom Necklace (ARV $84)
Prize: "Mom, You Make Me Bloom" Necklace (ARV $84)
Belabumbum - $75 Gift Certificate
Prize: $75 Gift Certificate
Ollie Swaddle - $50 Voucher
Prize: $50 Voucher
Lalabu - $60 Gift Certificate
Prize: $60 Gift Certificate
Sleepbelt - Choice of Sleepbelt (ARV $50)
Prize: Choice of Sleepbelt (ARV $50)
Life In Play - $50 Gift Certificate
Prize: $50 Gift Certificate
Eastwitching - $100 Gift Certificate
Prize: $100 Gift Certificate
PacaPod - Hastings Bag (ARV $130)
Prize: PacaPod Hasting's Changing Bag (ARV $130)
IncrediBundles - $150 Gift Certificate
Prize: $150 Gift Certificate
Naturalmat - Organic Top Mat (ARV $135)
Prize: Organic Top Mat (ARV $135)
Parker Potions - 4 massage oils (ARV $64)
Prize: Choice of 4 massage oils (ARV $64)
Prince Lionheart - Multiple Prizes (ARV $60)
Prize: Sun & Sleep Shade for Strollers and a Snooze Shade Deluxe Plus (ARV $60)
BooginHead - Multiple Prizes (AVR $53)
Prize: "Must-Have Parenting Solutions" Gift Set, including Splatmat, Pacipouch, Pack’ems, Squeez’ems, and Pacigrip (ARV $53)
The Rusty Marquee - $100 Gift Certificate
Prize: $100 Gift Certificate
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Special thanks to all the lovely companies who participated in our Gift Guide and Giveaway! Please note that all products included in the Spring Baby Gift Guide were generously donated to the staff of The Frosted Petticoat for testing and review purposes. All opinions expressed were our own.
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