Tuesday, November 11, 2014

Bambo

The latest European import from Abena of Denmark, Bambo Nature is making waves in the United States.

Bambo Nature diapers are made in Denmark,  are certified by that Astma-Allergi Danmark, as well as boast the Nordic Ecolabel and use FSC certified wood products.  The European sizing takes a little getting used to, but the benefit of a range is definitely worth it.
All sizes also boast a wetness indicator, focus on soft, breathable material while keeping baby’s sensitive skin dry.  Somehow, Bambo managed to do all this while keeping the diapers thin and the softest diaper we’d seen! 

Bambo clearly marks the materials used:
Textile ourter of polypropylene and polyethylene.  Absorbant material blend from polyacrylate (SAP) and cellulose, inner layer of non-woven polypropylene.  “Acquisition layer” of non-woven PET/Co-PET.  Fasteners made from nonwoven polypropylene and polyethylene.  Glue from synthetic rubber and Elastication from elastane. 
NO perfumes or moisturizing lotions

Diaper Dabbler offers samples in 2 sizes:

Size 2 (comparable to US version of size 1)

Size 3+ (Midi Plus): covers the widest range of 13-31 lbs. is also one of the tallest and widest brands at 5” wide, just over 8” tall

Monday, October 13, 2014

Diaper Brand Rating Chart

Find yourself trying to remember which diaper fit better or which was the one that leaked everywhere? Our handy diaper brand rating chart will relieve your mommy-brain from those details. Keep track of which diapers you have tried, which diapers you love, which diapers you avoid, and which diapers will work in a pinch when you find yourself scrambling in the middle of the night!  Need a blank chart?  Contact us!

So many diapers, don't know where to start?
We've done the research for you!  Save yourself time in your research. Check out our information and diaper research page to learn about each diaper brand. All information is from diaper brand websites or their customer service representatives. After you narrow down the diapers you are interested in, order a diaper variety pack to try them out and see which one fits YOUR baby the best!

Friday, September 26, 2014

What is SO great about Seventh Generation Training Pants?



There's NO SAP!  

That's right, they use what's called SNAP - a Super Absorbant Natural Polymer that's wheat based.  

Wait.  Isn't a Polymer, a Polymer?  NO!

According to Carnegie Mellon University, There's a significant difference between synthetic and natural polymers.  Primarily, synthetic polymers are petroleum based - made from oil.  Natural polymers are water-based; they occur in nature and can be extracted to create the polymer.  Seventh Generation training and overnight pants use a wheat-based natural Polymer.  Other examples of natural polymers, according to Carnegie Mellon University, are wool, silk, and cellulose.  

This is great news for those of us who use disposable diapers, but don't like the petroleum-based SAP that's in most disposable diaper brands on the market.

Try out some samples at http://www.diaperdabbler.com/diaper-sample-variety-best-diaper to see if Seventh Generation will be a good fit for your potty learner.



Way to go Seventh Generation 
for working towards alternatives; We hope you are able to transition to SNAP for ALL your diaper products.  
Also, Shout out to the fantastic Customer Service at Seventh Generation; Fast responses in easy-to-understand language and transparency in a time of green-washing is always appreciated.  

What do you think? What brands of training pants have you tried with your little one?  

Disclaimer:  This post is NOT sponsored by Seventh GenerationTM or anyone else, they don't even know I'm writing it.  I'm just really excited that they are working towards ways of reducing petroleum-based SAP in disposable diapers.  :)  

Thanks for reading!!

Thursday, September 11, 2014

Discover the Secret to Eliminating Diapering Disasters


Now you can affordably experience MORE trial AND a lot less error while trying to find the perfect diaper.
Here’s How!
Diaper Dabbler will put together a convenient, personalized sample pack featuring different types of disposable diapers. Your shipment will include major brands, plus some of the latest and greatest diapers on the marketplace.
Our custom diaper sampling service is a stress-free way to experiment with diapers without wasting time and money. We’ll bet your parents and grandparents wish we’d been around when they were new parents!
So, how do you select the perfect diaper? Below, are important factors to consider:
·         Material  — How does the diaper feel?  How breathable is it?  Some are soft and cloth-like, while others feel like a paper bag or feel and sound like plastic.
·         Leak Protection – All diapers claim to have leak protection, but how well do they work?
·         Fit — How does the diaper fit around Baby’s waist and legs? 
·         Cost – Diapers range from $0.12-$0.38 per diaper, depending on quantity, size, etc.  A newborn may go through 140+ diapers in just the first two weeks – worth it for the right diaper, but a huge waste of money if you’ve chosen the wrong ones!
·         Ingredients – Some diapers contain chlorine, perfume, phthalates, lotions, latex, optical brighteners, and/or PVC, while others are compostable, contain renewable materials, or are plastic free.  Some contain diapers contain chemicals that may cause rashes on Baby’s sensitive skin.


Halt Diapering Disasters Before They Occur! 

Wednesday, September 3, 2014

Great news from Seventh Generation!

Disclaimer: This post has not been authorized by Seventh Generation.  I didn't even tell them I'm writing it.  (So if it disappears one day, you know why).  The information within is from their website, diaper packs and customer service and is factual to the best of my knowledge. I apologize in advance, but am not resonsible for any errors.  If you have questions, ask Seventh Generations's customer service - which is fantastic.  They even have a chat: 

Seventh Generation now has a NEW Option, "Touch of Cloth"

Diaper Dabbler is are offering in Size 3, and including in Size 1. 

Seventh Generation Touch of Clothtm.  According to their super helpful customer service, Seventh Generation is now going to be offering 2 versions of their diapers; Free and Clear and the Premium Touch of Cloth.  Right now, Touch of Cloth is available at Target, Seventh Generation’s website, and of course, Diaper Dabbler.  Try out the new Touch of Cloth now because they will become more widely available next year. 
Ready to Compare and Contrast?

Free and Clear
Touch of Cloth
Unbleached brown core fiber; pigments
(unbleached implies  NO DIOXINS)
Mineral and Clay based White pigment (to prevent translucency)
Made in the USA!
Made in Mexico
Fragrance Free
Fragrance Free
Latex Free
Latex Free
Free of petroleum-based lotions
Free of petroleum-based lotions
Ingredients:
Ingredients:
  • Unbleached wood pulp

  • Wood pulp

  • Sodium polyacrylate

  • Mixture of plant-derived polysaccharide and sodium polyacrylate (use of plant based means less SAP, less chemicals)

  • Polypropylene              

  • Polypropylene and polyethylene


  • Polyester (dryness layer protects sensitive skin from rash)

  • Adhesives

  • Adhesives


  • Unbleached cotton and plant-derived rayon fibers (unbleached implies  NO DIOXINS)

  • Polymer spandex, polyurethane

  • Polyisoprene elastometric, Polymer spandex and polyurethane (need to keep them snug around baby somehow!)


Tuesday, July 1, 2014

Pin of the week - Kids Design Projects

Love this post from Fun at Home with Kids blog:



Creative / problem-solving art projects that cleverly include education and problem-solving in projects kids will love!  Go check out the link for details about all 9 great ideas and other. Be sure to pin from her site to help people check out her blog.  Asia's blog has great posts about sensory and imaginative play, as well as other ways to incorporate art into experiences your kids will LOVE!

Wednesday, June 25, 2014

Top Baby Shower Trends

Showers have changed quite a bit in recent years.  They have become more adult-themed, more practical, even including the dads-to-be.  Just take an upcoming childbirth, add good food, good friends, good conversation, and have a shower the parents-to-be will love!

The shower doesn’t have to be “traditional”, there are so many options, from the mini-shower “sprinkle” to fun events that parents enjoy to a gift theme that all babies need, like diapers (Diaper Dinner), meals (Supper Solutions), and books (Storytime showers).
1. Long Distance Showers and Virtual Baby Showers
Let's face it, no one goes to a shower for the games.  Maybe for the food.  But mostly to celebrate and honor Mom and the new arrival.  But what do you do when the new Mom or Dad live 100's of miles away from friends and family.  Solution - Long distance shower.  My favorite idea is when the host coordinates with the guests to send gifts at staggered points, so the parents-to-be receive gifts almost every day in the weeks before Baby arrives.  Who doesn't love to get mail?  Plus, it supports the postal service, who I think we all agree could use an influx of cash right now. Dwell on Joy threw a long distance shower for her sister-in-law, I love how she organized it.
 
I love her wording, SO cute.  Plus, this is what she sent to the new Mom and Dad to tell them about the shower: 
2. Diaper Dinners
This is a great idea for repeat moms, who already have some kids clothes, the stroller, the pack n play, the crib, and all that other Baby Gear.  What Any mom needs, whether it’s their 1st or 10thchild, is diapers.  The Diaper Dinner is a great alternative Baby Shower, where everyone can get together, eat, visit, and have a great time, while stocking Mom with a much needed stash of diapers.  You never know which diapers will work with the new Baby, depending on skin sensitivity, skinny vs. chubby fit, etc.  It’s great for Mom to have a small amount of many different brands so she can see what works on her baby.  Prep can be as simple as friends getting together for a potluck or as fancy dinner party as you like. Good food, good friends, good conversation, and a well stocked closet of diapers.  What more could expectant parents want?
3. Sip and See
The Sip n See is for after the Baby is born.  Sip champagne or Mom’s favorite drinks, see the New Baby.  Mom gets a chance to see friends and family, friends and family get to visit mom and see/hold a new baby! Check out some great pictures and ideas at Hostess with the Mostess' blog:
Sparkling Sip & See Baby Shower
4. Sprinkle
A sprinkle is just like it sounds – a mini shower.  YES, it IS okay to have a shower for Mom’s 2nd, 3rdor 8th baby.  All babies can and should be celebrated.
5. Mother Blessings
What a great way to celebrate not only the upcoming Baby, but Mom and the upcoming wonderful yet challenging transition in her life. Mom will be pretty busy and exhausted when Baby comes.  What better than to have a day to celebrate and enjoy herself. Maureen over at Homemade Mothering hosted a Knitting shower.  Each of the attendants knit a square, and all were combined to make a blanket for Baby.  They had someone there to teach the entire group.
6. Event shower
Choose something where everyone can participate that Mom enjoys - Spa/Pamper day, Movie night, Hiking in the woods, Bowling, Scrapbooking, the possibilities are endless.
7. Gender Reveal Shower
Let everyone find out together if it's a boy or girl - Decorate for each side – boy vs girl.
8. Supper Solutions
For new parents, even eating can be a challenge.  Shower the parents-to-be with frozen crock pot meals, casseroles, soups, one handed foods, everything they need to easily eat with they are too exhausted to think
9. Storytime Shower
Every baby needs a library!
10.  Eco friendly Baby Showers
Parents everywhere are going green as they prepare for the new addition.  Support their efforts with eco-friendly options, like nontoxic baby toys and essentials, reusable serving ware and decorations, cloth diapers.
*** OTHER IDEAS ***
Vintage
So many things you can go with for this theme. Lilac n Lavendar has some lovely ideas and printables:

Got any great shower tips?  Let us know on our Facebook page:www.facebook.com/diaperdabbler.  
Here’s one to get you started: Unwrap Presents As Guests Come In: as guests came into the party, steer them towards a table where the parents-to-be open the gift on the spot. Each and the new parents get a little one on one time, allowing them to give an personal thank you for the gift that was brought. The gifts can then displayed on a table so everyone can see, making a great conversation starter.

Thursday, June 19, 2014

4 Essential Diaper Creams to keep on Hand


First and foremost, protect Baby’s skin, especially for that long nighttime stretch consider using a light cream.   Remember that Baby’s skin is very thin and sensitive, so take care what you put on it.
Baby Center photo by Joe Shlabotnik

That said,
Babies get diaper rash.  You can do all you can to prevent diaper rash (#1 - change diapers frequently).  You can switch diaper brands and change from disposable to cloth and back again, but Diaper Rashes happen.  There’s teething, food sensitivities, too much pineapple one day, or that middle of the night poop that no one woke up to. But Rash Happens. 


I always prefered to start with something thin and gentle.  Coconut oil, olive oil, and breastmilk are both natural options to protect and heal minor skin irritations, as well as plenty of fresh air. 

Butt Paste – This was always my go-to.  Glides on smoothly with castor oil, Butt Paste has active ingredients including Zinc Oxide, 16%, Aloe Vera, and Beeswax.

Another soothing, natural option includes Burt's Bees.  With 4.6 stars from over 220 reviews on Amazon, Burt's Bees Baby Bee Diaper Ointment has rave reviews.  With sweet almond oil as the first ingredient, followed by zinc oxide, calendula, lavendar oil, vitamin E and other products, it's an effective, sensitive solution. The only red flag in the diaper ointment is it’s source of vitamin A - Retinyl Acetate. 

A+D Zinc Oxide Cream; Uses 10% Zinc Oxide and Dimethicone 1% to heal the rash.  A & D includes Aloe Vera, and coconut oil, cod liver oil (source of the vitamin A and D for healing), beeswax.  It’s not at thin as Butt Paste, but still pretty smooth.   Negatives are fragrance and mineral oil, synthetic beeswax, Benzel alcoholol

Triple Paste is essential for every mom to have on hand.  This is the emergency, guaranteed to work  diaper rash healer.  When nothing else worked, this was always my go-to.  With a higher percentage of Zinc Oxide 12.8% (Skin Protectant), Triple Paste also includes cornstarch, beeswax and oat kernel extract to help heal the skin.

CJ’s BUTTer is the only one from this list I have not tried.  The skin-friendly ingredient list includes shea butter, olive oil, coconut oil, lanolin, beeswax, cocoa butter, Vitamin E (derived from soy), gluten-free colloidal oatmeal, and essential oils.  This is one of the few cloth diaper friendly creams available.  What I love about this is that it is available in a Spritz!  Instead of spreading/dabbing on a cream, and possibly causing irritation from friction, you can just spritz on the protectant.  I LOVE this idea!  Hard to find locally, you’ll have to check out a specialty store or order online. 


If the diaper creams aren’t working or the rash worsens, call your pediatrician.  If you have ANY concerns about a rash or change in your baby’s skin, it never hurts to give Baby’s pediatrician a call, if for no other reason that reassurance.  Your baby may need a prescription or an exam to determine if the issue is yeast or a bacterial infection to receive appropriate treatment.

Common sense disclaimer:


This information is solely for informational purposes. IT IS NOT INTENDED TO PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE.  The author nor publisher takes responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading or following the information contained in this information. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care provider. Before undertaking any course of treatment, the reader must seek the advice of their physician or other health care provider.

Friday, June 13, 2014

Earth's Best Diapers


Considerations, Research and More
Owned by an American company, The Hain Celestial Group, Inc.
Earth's Best diapers are produced in Mexico, as are other brands like The Honest Company and Nurtured by Nature.  
No dioxin concerns here!  These diapers are Chlorine-free, latex-free, dye-free, perfume-free, which really helps reduce allergic reactions. 
The diapers use corn and wheat to reduce the amount of SAP in their products.  These diapers are also narrow and trim, with a silky outer feel.

Newborn: covers up to 10 lbs is one of the smallest brands at 4”x6” and does not have an umbilical cord notch or the wetness indicator you see in many brands.  (The wetness indicator is a chemical that reacts/changes color when wet, so no indicator means 1 less chemical)

Size 1: covering 8-14 lbs, adds a little height, with 4”x6.5”. 

Size 3: covers 16-28lbs is also one of the narrowest  brands, 4.5” wide, 8” tall

Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) certification of compliance


***Disclaimer***

Diaper Dabbler, LLC (also referred to as Diaper Dabbler) is not responsible for, and expressly disclaims all liability for, damages of any kind arising out of use, reference to, or reliance on any information contained within the site. While the information contained within the site is periodically updated, no guarantee is given that the information provided in this Web site is correct, complete, and up-to-date.  Links from Diaper Dabbler to third-party sites do not constitute an endorsement by Diaper Dabbler of the parties or their products and services and Diaper Dabbler has not investigated the claims made by any advertiser. All of the information within was based solely from respective company websites and/or respective customer services departments. Although Diaper Dabber may include links providing direct access to other Internet resources, including Web sites, Diaper Dabbler is not responsible for the accuracy or content of information contained in these sites. Consumers are encouraged to read the package labels for the most current information and contact respective customer services with questions.  Individual company/brand links, including their customer services and FAQ’s have been provided.  The below was collected for informational / educational purposes only and no comparisons between companies were intended or should be inferred.  Every effort was made, using paraphrasing and direct quotes, to ensure the accuracy of the information.  No inferences should be drawn from the information.    Diaper Dabbler LLC is not responsible for any inaccuracies.  If you do notice an inaccuracy, please contact us.  Any errors will be corrected within a reasonable timeframe.

Monday, June 9, 2014

Target Up & Up

Target Up & Up
Considerations, Research and Samples
Cost:
$
Company:
Target Corporation
HQ Location:
Minneapolis, MN, USA
Website:
Contact:




Diaper Features:
No chlorine, no petrolatum; “No lotions, parabens or latex”; Hypoallergenic; May contain natural aloe, chamomile, Vitamin E.
May include: 
·         Polyethylene or polypropylene films and fabrics
·         Block polymer construction adhesives
·         Wood pulp (all are ECF – Element Chlorine Free bleaching)
·         Polymeric substitutes for latex
·         Polyacrylate super absorbents
·         Organic substance based inks
Absorbent Material:
polymer
Environmental:
Link to corporate responsibility information:http://corporate.target.com/corporate-responsibility


***Disclaimer***

Diaper Dabbler, LLC (also referred to as Diaper Dabbler) is not responsible for, and expressly disclaims all liability for, damages of any kind arising out of use, reference to, or reliance on any information contained within the site. While the information contained within the site is periodically updated, no guarantee is given that the information provided in this Web site is correct, complete, and up-to-date.  Links from Diaper Dabbler to third-party sites do not constitute an endorsement by Diaper Dabbler of the parties or their products and services and Diaper Dabbler has not investigated the claims made by any advertiser. All of the information within was based solely from respective company websites and/or respective customer services departments. Although Diaper Dabber may include links providing direct access to other Internet resources, including Web sites, Diaper Dabbler is not responsible for the accuracy or content of information contained in these sites. Consumers are encouraged to read the package labels for the most current information and contact respective customer services with questions.  Individual company/brand links, including their customer services and FAQ’s have been provided.  The below was collected for informational / educational purposes only and no comparisons between companies were intended or should be inferred.  Every effort was made, using paraphrasing and direct quotes, to ensure the accuracy of the information.  No inferences should be drawn from the information.    Diaper Dabbler LLC is not responsible for any inaccuracies.  If you do notice an inaccuracy, please contact us.  Any errors will be corrected within a reasonable timeframe.

Friday, May 16, 2014

Babies R Us diapers


Considerations, Research, Samples and more

Cost:
$
Company:
Toys R Us
HQ Location:
Minneapolis, MN, USA

Diaper Features:
“Moisture-proof cover”; Hypoallergenic liner, Vitamin E, aloe and zinc; Perfume free, Latex free
Absorbent Material:
“Super-absorbent core”
Environmental:
Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) certification of compliance
http://www.toysrusinc.com/safety/about-our-supply-chain/


***Disclaimer***


Diaper Dabbler, LLC (also referred to as Diaper Dabbler) is not responsible for, and expressly disclaims all liability for, damages of any kind arising out of use, reference to, or reliance on any information contained within the site. While the information contained within the site is periodically updated, no guarantee is given that the information provided in this Web site is correct, complete, and up-to-date.  Links from Diaper Dabbler to third-party sites do not constitute an endorsement by Diaper Dabbler of the parties or their products and services and Diaper Dabbler has not investigated the claims made by any advertiser. All of the information within was based solely from respective company websites and/or respective customer services departments. Although Diaper Dabber may include links providing direct access to other Internet resources, including Web sites, Diaper Dabbler is not responsible for the accuracy or content of information contained in these sites. Consumers are encouraged to read the package labels for the most current information and contact respective customer services with questions.  Individual company/brand links, including their customer services and FAQ’s have been provided.  The below was collected for informational / educational purposes only and no comparisons between companies were intended or should be inferred.  Every effort was made, using paraphrasing and direct quotes, to ensure the accuracy of the information.  No inferences should be drawn from the information.    Diaper Dabbler LLC is not responsible for any inaccuracies.  If you do notice an inaccuracy, please contact us.  Any errors will be corrected within a reasonable timeframe.

Friday, May 9, 2014

Baby Planner / Maternity Concierge Directory

Online providers
[MOD] momma, Inc.  
Follow and Like [MOD] momma to keep up with the latest information and helpful tips
Specialty: Baby Planning and Eco-Consulting

Stroll Carry Love              
Follow and Like Stroll Carry Love to keep up with the latest information and helpful tips
Specialty: Working with Bed Rest Mommas and Parents of Preemies, Gear Consultations and Training (we are totally gear obsessed)

BabyNav Baby Planners
Like BabyNav Baby Planners to keep up with the latest information and helpful tips
Specialty: Organization and preparation for the whole family, baby gear expert

California
Sweet Expectations Baby Planner
Follow and Like Stroll Carry Love to keep up with the latest information and helpful tips


Connecticut
BabyNav Baby Planners
Like BabyNav Baby Planners to keep up with the latest information and helpful tips
Specialty: Organization and preparation for the whole family, baby gear expert

Florida
[MOD] momma, Inc.  
Follow and Like [MOD] momma to keep up with the latest information and helpful tips
Specialty: Baby Planning and Eco-Consulting

Missouri
Pickles and Ice Cream  
Follow and Like [MOD] momma to keep up with the latest information and helpful tips
Specialty: Baby Planning and Eco-Consulting
http://www.picklesandicecreamstl.com/

New Jersey
BabyNav Baby Planners
Like BabyNav Baby Planners to keep up with the latest information and helpful tips
Specialty: Organization and preparation for the whole family, baby gear expert

Stroll Carry Love              
Follow and Like Stroll Carry Love to keep up with the latest information and helpful tips
Specialty: Working with Bed Rest Mommas and Parents of Preemies, Gear Consultations and Training (we are totally gear obsessed)

New York

BabyNav Baby Planners

Like BabyNav Baby Planners to keep up with the latest information and helpful tips
Specialty: Organization and preparation for the whole family, baby gear expert

Pennsylvania
Stroll Carry Love              

Follow and Like Stroll Carry Love to keep up with the latest information and helpful tips
Specialty: Working with Bed Rest Mommas and Parents of Preemies, Gear Consultations and Training (we are totally gear obsessed)


We will be adding to this Directory as we go, so don't forget to come back!  Interested in being included in this directory?  Leave a comment below and we'll contact you.