Mommy Life Hack

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  • 5 College Life Power-Ups

    5 College Life Power-Ups

    College life isn’t always conducive to cleaning. Whether you’re living in a dorm, apartment or house, it’s hard to keep up with things like laundry and dusting when your schedule is jam-packed with classes, extracurriculars and a bustling social life. Many students put household chores at the bottom of their to-do lists for this reason. A tidy home is aesthetically pleasing, but that’s not the only reason you should make cleaning a priority. Clean, clutter-free rooms are also less distracting, which makes studying easier. Plus, maintaining a clean space can ease stress and anxiety. Even the act of cleaning can boost your mood. Clearly, there are a lot of great reasons to tidy up.

    The excitement of a new school year can provide the boost you need to keep your space clean in the first few weeks of classes. But as that motivation wears off and you settle into the semester, you might find empty pizza boxes and dirty laundry piling up more and more. Before you find yourself buried in clutter, try these college life power-ups!

    1. Stay on Top of Your Laundry

    Laundry starts piling up fast. If you don’t tend to it quickly, it doesn’t take long for it to become overwhelming — especially if you need to use communal laundry facilities. Decide on a day to wash all of your dirty clothes, towels and sheets and stick to the schedule. You can even use laundry detergent sheets (more on that next!) to make the process easier. Developing this routine means you won’t have overflowing hampers. Instead, you’ll have a closet or dresser full of fresh clothes along with clean sheets and towels for the week.

    So, what are laundry detergent sheets? They’re a simple, environmentally friendly alternative to traditional liquid and powdered detergent. These eco-friendly laundry products are completely dry and dissolve almost instantly in cold or hot water. They are also completely plastic-free. They are packed in biodegradable packaging, and you only need half of a sheet for regular loads. Plus, each package is lightweight and compact, so they’re much easier to store and carry to the laundry room than huge plastic bottles or boxes of powdered detergent. In other words, switching to these sheets makes staying on top of your laundry easier and lessens your environmental impact.

    2. Keep All of the Essentials on Hand

    It’s hard to maintain a clean space when you don’t have any cleaning products. Whether you’re a freshman living away from home for the first time or have been in school for a few years and still don’t know how to keep things clean, purchasing the right cleaning products ensures you’ll have what you need to get the job done. Keep these essentials on hand:

    • Small vacuum
    • Sponges
    • Disinfectant wipes
    • Air freshener
    • Multi-purpose spray cleaner
    • Hard floor cleaner (Swiffer has several options.)
    • Toilet bowl cleaner
    • Glass cleaner
    • Toilet brush

    If you share your home with pets, keeping an enzyme cleaner on hand is smart, as well. We also recommend stocking up on reusable paper towels. They’re better for the environment than disposable ones and they’re more enjoyable to use since they don’t fall apart.

    When shopping for supplies, choose the ones that interest you most. You’re more likely to use that vacuum cleaner if it’s your favorite color and spray cleaners are more fun to use when they smell good. There are a lot of cute cleaning supplies that can make chore day a lot less boring.

    3. Wash Your Dishes Daily

    Whether they’re from takeout or a home-cooked meal, dirty dishes are gross. No one particularly enjoys washing them, but the longer you wait, the more difficult dishes become to clean. Plus, leaving food-encrusted plates, bowls and glasses piled up in the sink or on the counter is unsanitary and serves as an invitation for insects like ants and fruit flies. It’s a habit that could irritate your roommate (if you have one), too. And much like laundry, dirty dishes pile up quickly. Washing them regularly prevents them from becoming an overwhelming chore.

    Do your dishes every day — ideally, immediately after finishing a meal. If you can’t wash them after every meal, at least give them a good rinse instead of leaving them caked in food until later. Put them away as soon as they’re clean and dry so your dishrack isn’t completely full the next time you need to do dishes.

    Deal with empty takeout containers promptly, too. There’s no reason to have empty pizza boxes and soda cans scattered throughout your apartment. You should also clear random takeout containers out of your fridge regularly.

    4. Make Cleaning Fun

    Cleaning may never be your favorite activity, but it doesn’t have to be miserable. Instead of dreading your daily and weekly chores, make them fun! Listening to music, an audiobook or a podcast is one of the easiest ways to make the experience more enjoyable. When you’re focused on listening to something you enjoy, you’re less likely to think about how much you dislike cleaning. You could also turn your chores into a cleaning routine, invite friends over to help or keep you company, make cleaning a game or catch up on phone calls while you work.

    5. Treat Yourself When You Finish

    Knowing you have something to look forward to after a day of cleaning makes it a lot easier to get things done. Treat yourself to something from your Amazon wishlist, enjoy a drink with friends, order takeout from your favorite restaurant or just relax as a reward for tidying up.

    Conclusion

    College life is hectic, and cleaning is probably one of the last things on your mind. Making it a priority is important, though, as doing so prevents messes from getting out of control. Cleaning also offers mental health benefits and can help you stay on top of your studies. Try the suggestions above to level up your cleaning routine!

  • 3 Layering Pieces Every Little Girl Needs For Winter

    3 Layering Pieces Every Little Girl Needs For Winter

    Winter is quickly approaching, and it’s time to start thinking about what you’ll need to layer your little girl up when she starts playing in the snow! She’ll need plenty of layers to keep her warm but also pieces that are cute enough to wear with her favorite dresses and leggings. Fortunately, there are plenty of adorable winter layering pieces every little girl needs, so you can easily find the cutest way to stay warm this winter! Here are some of our favorites!

    The coat

    Treat yourself to the perfect winter coat for your little girl. This is the most important piece of clothing in her wardrobe because it will keep her warm and make her look stylish at the same time. Whether she loves pink, polka dots, or plaids, there’s always something for everyone! To switch it up, look for a high-quality coat with various features like faux fur lining, removable hoods, and double-layered lining. If you’re looking for a budget option, find one that has the same features as far as warmth but without the extras.

    The sweater

    A cozy sweater is an essential layer in every winter wardrobe. They’re the perfect weight for fall and spring and provide warmth for cold days when paired with a thin long-sleeved t-shirt or tank top underneath. The best part about sweaters is that they come in many different styles! From classic cable knits to fun bright prints, you can find the perfect sweater for your little one’s style. With all of the great options out there, it’s easy to forget what makes them work so well. Sweaters are machine washable, quick drying, and packed up small.

    When choosing a sweater, make sure it fits snugly but not too tight around the neckline. When it comes time to zip it up, you want room to maneuver without stretching the fabric around the face. Some of the most stylish sweaters include:

    ● Cardigans to wear over shirts, blouses, jumpsuits, and dresses.
    ● Hoodies to wear over short and long-sleeved shirts and even under a coat.
    ● Pullovers look especially well together with a turtleneck or collared shirt.

    The long-sleeved shirt

    A long-sleeved shirt is a must-have for any little girl. It will be a favorite to wear under her sweaters and jackets in the winter but can also be worn with leggings or tights. The best part about a long-sleeved shirt is that it can also be used as a pajama top, so you don’t have to worry about buying one of those for your daughter once you have gotten all the wear out of them. Long-sleeved shirts are available in many different styles, including graphic tees, striped button-downs, polka dots, and even cute ruffly detail like these ruffle tops from presleycouture.com. They come in basic colors like white and black, which makes them perfect for layering on top of other items or pairing with bright colors to create an outfit all by itself.

    The winter months can be so fun with all of the snow and ice, but it can also be really cold. To help keep your little girl warm and looking great this winter, we recommend a cute coat, gloves that go up to the wrist, and a scarf.

  • How To Choose Play Equipment For The Whole Family

    How To Choose Play Equipment For The Whole Family

    You may think that play equipment choices only include the brightly coloured plastic cheap looking (despite the cost not being so cheap generally). Still, you may be surprised to learn that a great range of natural material play equipment is sturdy enough for adults to use too.

    If you are going to buy play equipment, why not consider a more natural look for your outdoor space where the whole family can benefit? Not only could it last much longer, but it could be more aesthetically appealing in your garden too.

    The benefits of natural materials for outdoor gym equipment

    Quality wooden and stainless steel outdoor gym and play equipment is incredibly sturdy and hardwearing and is perfect for families to have for many generations. With that in mind, you can transform your garden or open space to have play equipment that the whole family can use. Choosing natural wood will mean it can be used all year round, it will last longer than plastic as the sun doesn’t do the same damage to wood as it does the plastic children’s equipment, and it will look and feel natural even on the hotter days. Natural woods such as oak and Robinia look great too and are a far more realistic view from a living room window, so your garden will not feel overrun by bright artificial plastics.

    Sensory and Sustainable

    Children can learn the feel of natural wood when playing outside. Wood and metals offer a greater sensory experience. Far too often, overused plastic is the main focus of children’s play, so having the opportunity, whether in your own garden or by a family trip to the park, is great for children to learn about the benefits of sustainable and natural materials. Choosing natural resources is possible through suppliers such as PlayEquip, who can provide professional advice, individual outdoor play and gym equipment and bespoke solutions for your home garden or local open space.

    How to choose equipment for all ages

    Spending time outside is essential for both adults and children to help look after overall fitness and health and improve mental wellbeing, so why not have fun and play together. With the right outdoor play equipment families can take traditional bonding time outdoors. Choosing sturdier equipment means adults can join in with the kids having fun and getting fitter while they do so.

    Exercising as a family is a great way to set good habits, encourage those less able and build on what each person can do. Often exercise is one of the first things to be forfeited if time is tight, and visits to the gym can get in the way of everyday family life, so choose play equipment that offers options for the whole family.

    Examples could include

    • Outdoor pull-up bars
    • Monkey bars
    • Climbing walls
    • Weave bars
    • Rope climbs
    • Balance beams and wobble boards
    • Trampolines

    Exercise targets to reach

    Consider family play equipment that enables you as a family to exercise using the three key exercise focuses

    • Aerobic – raising your heart rate for a prolonged period. Such as jumping on a trampoline. They can be sunk into the ground, making them safer for all ages.
    • Strengthening – pulling up on monkey bars, pull-up bars and climbing walls to improve arm, leg and core body, spine and abdomen strength
    • Flexibility – balance boards, wobble boards, and everything else we have already mentioned will help build body flexibility for all ages.

    As we age, we should keep on top of regular daily exercise and spending time outside exercising is good for our health too, so using family-friendly outdoor play equipment with or without the kids will improve overall health and help in everyday life chores too.

    Flexible solutions to suit your space

    If you have a small garden, don’t have room for an indoor gym or don’t like or want plastic only safe for small children in your garden or open space, then natural wood and metal choices are the answer. Whether you buy a bespoke set-up or individual pieces, there is a wealth of play and outdoor gym equipment that the whole family can use, and it will look far more natural and enable you to connect with nature.

  • How to Choose Your Cosplay Character

    How to Choose Your Cosplay Character

    One of the finest components of crafting is the glorious opportunity to detach from the day-to-day, the tried-and-true, the mundane little ruts we all tend to fall into from time to time. We crafters escape into our art and find sweet reprieve from the boring ol’ workaday.

    Every member of the crafting cohort knows this sweet feeling, this little bit of departure we sink into each time we bring out our cutting mat and get to work. But some crafters REALLY know how to get away. Indeed, we’re talking about crafters who sink into the world of cosplay. These crafters not only generate that little getaway for the mind when they craft—they use their crafting talents to create costumes that they don for a serious dose of exodus from the day-to-day.

    Today, the goal is to encourage more crafters to venture into the world of cosplay by thinking about what characters may help them embody that little something that speaks to their inner explorer—of course, we’ll be encouraging our crafting compatriots to take the crafter’s route into the cosplay universe by making their own costumes.

    So let’s consider how to go about selecting your cosplay character. Because once that decision is made, you simply won’t be able to stop crafting creations for your alter-ego. Without further ado, let’s get into it.

    Accentuate a Trait You Love About Yourself

    What do you love most about yourself? No need for modesty here. Are you cunning, strong, fast—are you a little bit sexy? It’s okay to say yes to any of these; you aren’t broadcasting these answers online like some egoistic jerk.

    Find a character that embodies these qualities. You value your physical strength? If that’s the case, maybe you need to round up your cosplay tools and craft your own Hulk costume. Or maybe you want to pair and sex appeal—in that case, crafting ladies, maybe Wonder Woman is your move.

    The point here is to use your cosplay character as an extension of something you love about yourself.

    Or Consider Traits You Aspire To

    Perhaps you feel like you’re sometimes too submissive. Maybe you feel a little out of shape and are looking to beef up in the gym. Or maybe you’ve been dealt some real blows in life—things have come along and sent you on a path you didn’t want to go down.

    If the previous paragraph speaks to you, find that cosplay character that appeals to your inner-desire to improve your station, your lot in life. There are endless characters in the cosplay realm whose origin stories are all about overcoming adversity, characters who turned pockmarks into beauty marks. For a classic example, how about Superman—that poor fella was orphaned as a baby, but things kind of worked out for him in the end, didn’t they?

    Find a cosplay character that helps you slip into the person you’re on the path toward becoming.

    Have Realistic Costume Goals

    Now for a dose of reality: You have to keep in mind that whatever character you choose to embody—well, you need to make that costume. That means time (perhaps a lot of it), and money (perhaps a lot of that, too). Of course, there are plenty of cosplay characters the expert crafter can put together in now time, with little more than a bit of elbow grease and the proper craft knife.

    But there are plenty of cosplay costumes that are borderline impossible to put together (of course, truly elite crafters may consider these costumes an irresistible challenge).

    Know your skillset. Know your budget. Cosplay is all about escapism, but when it comes to this aspect of cosplay, you need to get practical for a second.

    Connect and Explore With Other Cosplayers

    Crafting can be a relatively solo pursuit. We sink into work in our studios and travel into the innermost realm of our creative self. But when you’re crafting for cosplay, that effort will ultimately unite you with a seemingly boundless community of like-minded souls.

    For this component of cosplay creation, we are encouraging you to connect with fellow cosplayers on the front end. That connection can potentially inspire your costume choice. Perhaps you’ll connect with players who are adhering to a theme for an upcoming cosplay event; if they have specific character needs, you can fill the void and use the group as your cosplay creation muse.

    Because when it comes right down to it, we cosplay to be among others. Cosplay is all about a creative expansion that helps players unite with folks who will likely remain friends even after the costumes come off.

    But when those costumes are removed, there’s always another event on the horizon, which means there’s endless opportunity for cosplay crafting.

  • What Qualities Should I Look For In A Mattress?

    What Qualities Should I Look For In A Mattress?

    Choosing a mattress is a minefield. Fillings, springs, breathability, size — it’s all too easy to spend hours researching and looking at what people say on forums.

    This is especially true when buying a mattress without trying it online.

    Thankfully, we’re here to help. Below, we’ve covered the main qualities to look for in a mattress. And when you’ve finished, go and check out our article on How to Choose the Right Mattress for even more handy tips.

    Let’s jump in!

    Fillings – what are they? 

    No mattress on the market uses only one filling type — all use a combination of fillings, such as foams, fibres, and wools. Here’s a run-down of the leading fillers:

    • Memory foam: contours to your body and relieves pressure on contact points. Lacks breathability unless infused with charcoal bamboo.
    • Reflex foam: flexible foam that pushes back. Found in spring and pure foam mattresses as a comfort layer to improve squishiness.
    • Latex foam: elastic and springy with some body-contouring qualities. A natural allergen, so make sure you are not allergic to latex.
    • White fibre: polyester yarn, also known as hollow fibre. Packed densely to create a comfort layer. Firmer feel than foams.
    • Natural fillings: natural fillings replace foams and white fibre. They include bamboo, cotton, wool, mohair, and pure latex foams.

    Springs – what type are they? 

    If you pick a sprung mattress, you need to know whether it has open coil springs or pocket springs. Here are the key differences:

    • Open coils: this bed of interlocked springs reacts as a single part. Provides good support but can suffer from poor movement isolation.
    • Pocket springs: individual springs sewn into pockets. The springs react independently, so this mattress type offers better support and comfort.

    Breathability – will it keep you cool? 

    Some mattresses sleep warmer than others (we’re looking at you, memory foam). If you are a hot sleeper, you should choose a cooling mattress. Here are your main options:

    • Sprung mattresses: sprung mattresses have air gaps that facilitate airflow underneath the mattress to keep you cool.
    • Cooling gel: mattresses with cooling gel will keep you cool irrespective of whether they are sprung or memory foam.
    • Charcoal-bamboo memory foam: traditional memory foam lacks breathability, but memory foam enhanced with charcoal bamboo breathes well.

    Top cover – what is it made from? 

    Although you’ll use a bedsheet on your mattress, it’s still possible to sense its softness underneath. Here’s a run-down of the main fabrics:

    • Stitchbond: stitchbond is a non-woven polyester fabric used on cheap mattresses. It has poor breathability and a scratchier feel.
    • Damask: Damask is the most common fabric. It is soft-touch, breathable, flexible, and nicer to sleep on than stitchbond.
    • Micro-quilt (knitted): micro-quilt is a knitted fabric that will provide similar softness to damask, but it has a stitch pattern that some people prefer.

    Top cover – is it plain, tufted, or quilted?  

    When you lay on a mattress, you can feel the system it uses to hold the fillings together – this is a stitched, tufted, or quilted system.

    • Stitched: stitched top covers are stitched into the top comfort layer, creating a straight or wave pattern.
    • Tufted: tufted top covers have popcorn buttons that penetrate the mattress’s layers and hold the top fillings together.
    • Quilted: quilted top covers are purely aesthetic and sit on top of the comfort layers, giving the mattress a premium finish.

    Size and thickness – does it match your bed? 

    It’s easy to match a new mattress to your bed – pick a mattress that fits your bed size. Here’s a size guide to help out even more.

    Once you’ve figured out the proper size, please pay attention to mattress thickness, which will make or break how it looks and performs on your bed.

    A mattress that is too thick could reduce the functionality of your headboard and give you the sensation you are sleeping ‘on’ your bed rather than ‘in’ it.

    Generally, divan and ottoman beds suit mattresses between 18cm and 25cm thick, while standard bed frames have more leeway.

  • How to Prepare for Traveling with a Baby

    How to Prepare for Traveling with a Baby

    Having a new baby can be overwhelming, and the thought of traveling with an infant may seem completely impossible to you. However, with the right prepwork you can totally travel by plane, train or car with a baby — you just have to do your research and plan ahead. Here are some of our top tips for traveling with a baby, from packing cute baby boy clothes to getting a passport for your infant:

    Start with a road trip.

    This will be the easiest, least stressful way to travel with your baby for the first time. Traveling by car allows you to pack a lot of luggage and means that you don’t have to fuss with airport security or trying to get a coveted bassinet. If you are planning to fly with a baby anytime soon, try doing a short weekend trip by car first as a test run so that you can work out what luggage you need and how you want to organize things.

    Know the airport and airline regulations.

    Usually, people traveling with small children will be allowed boarding priority, and there is often a priority option or sometimes a dedicated line at security for families as well. Sometimes you might have to pay an extra fee to fly with an infant in your arms, but this varies from airline to airline and you might have to call to confirm the charges and pay the fee (if there is one). If you need more space but don’t want to pay for an extra seat, you can always ask at the ticketing counter if there are any empty seats on the flight and if you can be seated next to them.

    Be early for long flights.

    Most long haul flights have baby bassinets that attach to the bulkhead, and these are usually given out on a first-come, first-serve basis at the gate. You can call ahead to try to reserve it or at least put in a request for it, but your best bet is going to be showing up early in person. Each airline has different size bassinets and therefore different weight restrictions on how large the baby using it can be, so do your research ahead of time to make sure that your baby will actually fit.

    Choose your lodging wisely.

    Many hotels and Airbnbs provide a crib or pack-and-play upon request, making this one less thing that you have to bring with you. Some also feature in-house laundry units, which means that you can pack less clothing for both you and baby. Try to book far enough in advance to maximize your chances of finding lodging with these helpful perks.

    Pack the essentials.

    Once you know what your lodging will provide, make a list of the essentials that you need to take with you. Obviously, there will be some items that you will need with you en route, plus some items that it would be expensive to buy duplicates of (like a breast pump). However, there will also be items that you can pick up once you arrive, such as diapers and formula. You can also minimize the number of cute baby girl clothes you have to pack if you can commit to doing laundry while you are there.

    Rent a car with a car seat.

    If you plan to get around by car, ask the rental company if they provide car seats for renters, as many companies will. If this isn’t a possibility, then get a car seat that can clip into the stroller seat so that you aren’t stuck carrying an extra heavy, bulky piece of gear on the plane or train.

    Wear the baby as much as possible.

    While your baby is still small, wearing them (vs. putting them in a stroller) is often the easiest way to travel with them, especially in airports. Strollers can be difficult to wrangle through security and they’re difficult to fold and unfold while trying to hold the baby, so you might as well put off using one for as long as you can until your baby gets too heavy to carry around.

    Get a noise machine or app.

    If your baby is a light sleeper, a white noise machine or app will help mask distracting background sounds so they will fall asleep and stay asleep. If you don’t want to sacrifice one of your phones to do this all night, you can get a dedicated white noise machine that is precisely designed to do this. Be sure to choose a small one that will easily fit into your luggage.

    Get them a passport.

    If you are traveling internationally, remember that babies need passports, too! Start the passport process well before you plan to leave so that you don’t have to go through an expensive and stressful expediting process. Note that there are some extra documents and requirements for getting a passport for a baby, so it’s not exactly the same as getting a passport for an adult.

    Plan for jet lag.

    If you are moving across time zones, then it’s going to take you and the baby time to adjust to the new schedule — and the farther you go, the longer it will take. If possible, try to schedule your flight or drive during their bedtime so they will wake up at your new destination. Build a few days into your schedule to give the whole family time to recover from jet lag. You can try to change their schedule before you leave, but it’s up to you whether you want to attempt that or not.

    Turn traveling with your baby from a dream into a reality with these expert tips. Got more advice for traveling with a baby? Share it with us in the comments below!

  • Diaper Bag Features Must-Haves

    If you’re in the market for a new diaper bag, it can be helpful to focus on the key features that will make your experience much more enjoyable and stress-free. By focusing on quality and functionality, you’ll be able to shop with confidence and enjoy life with your little one all the more. Here are three diaper bag features to consider when wondering what to look for when buying a diaper bag– hopefully, you’ll find one or two things on this list that will make all the difference!

    Front Panel Access

    A diaper bag is not a purse; you’ll be using it quickly and often to find everything you need in a jiffy. With that in mind, having front panel access (or at least an easy-access exterior pocket) is essential. In many cases, your fingers will act as a scanner across multiple pockets before they land on what they’re looking for, so think carefully about where those pockets are located. If one of your diaper bag feature must-haves is quick and easy entry and exit, make sure any pockets on your front flap or exterior are super simple to open and close—otherwise, you could lose precious seconds digging through all of them just to grab a pacifier or sippy cup

    Multiple Carrying Options

    The best diaper bags have a few different carrying options. Some offer backpack straps, some messenger bags, and others duffel handles. If you do opt for a backpack-style bag, make sure it has padded shoulder straps and is made of sturdy material to ensure comfort while on the go. Also, look for an easy access pocket that allows you to get items in and out quickly. Finally, consider stroller clips or sling-style baby carrier attachments to wear your diaper bag over your shoulder on busy days when both hands are full!

    Enough Space

    One of the diaper bag feature must-haves is enough space to carry everything you need. The size of your diaper bag will determine what else you can fit in it, so first check that it can comfortably hold all your essentials before shopping for extra features. For instance, a lot of bags come with stroller straps but you may not actually need or want those features, so evaluate how much they’ll add to your bag and if they’re truly necessary.

    Shoulder Strap

    What to Look For When Shopping Diaper Bags If you’re expecting a baby, or know someone who is, you might have noticed that diaper bags come in all shapes and sizes. There are so many diaper bag options out there that it can be overwhelming to figure out what you need—and what’s even worth looking at. We asked some moms which features they think are most important when shopping for a diaper bag, and we found that when it comes to shoulder straps, these mamas had their own ideas about how things should work: two straps or one? Wide or thin? One strap over both shoulders or across one shoulder? This of course depends on preference. The majority of seasoned moms prefer a backpack style because the two straps are more comfortable and allow for free hands to carry both baby and bag.

    Extra Storage Space

    Diaper bags have to be big. You can’t have it be too small or you won’t be able to carry all of your baby’s essentials. You’ll need extra storage space for diapers, wipes, extra clothes, burp cloths, and more. Diapers take up a lot of room so you want a diaper bag that will fit all of your baby essentials comfortably without being too bulky or difficult to carry around daily. If you’re looking for a diaper bag for mom or dad make sure that it’s easy to carry with one hand as well.

    It’s important to note that there is no perfect diaper bag, but if you look for certain features and consider your lifestyle needs, it can make a huge difference. If you’re not sure what you need and what questions to ask yourself as you shop around, consult our what to look for the list above. Most importantly? Have fun! A diaper bag should help organize and simplify your life—not complicate it.

  • Quick Changes You Can Make To Prevent Back Pain

    Quick Changes You Can Make To Prevent Back Pain

    If you’ve ever relieved back pain by sticking a cushion behind your back, you’ll know how small changes can make a big difference to back pain. But are there any quick ways to prevent back pain in the first place?

    The answer depends on the nature of your back pain. Occasional back pain is symptomatic of aggravating an old injury or sleeping funny, while chronic back pain is usually a symptom of something more serious, like a medical condition.

    The good news is most back pain can be prevented and alleviated relatively quickly. Here are some quick changes you can make today:

    Sleep on a comfortable mattress

    Pocket-Gel-Mattress

    Pictured: Sleepeezee Jessica 1800 Pocket Gel Mattress, Available from Bedstar The Online Bed Superstore.

    If you wake up with back pain, your mattress could be blamed. The easiest way to choose a mattress is based on what position you sleep in:

    • Side sleepers need a medium mattress
    • Front sleepers need a soft to medium-soft mattress
    • Back sleepers need a medium to medium-firm mattress

    The technology of the mattress (e.g., foam, hybrid, sprung) determines the feel, such as how squishy, bouncy and pressure-relieving it is.

    A Memory foam mattress or hybrid mattress is perfect for most back pain because the memory foam has body-contouring qualities. However, if you need more support, a sprung mattress should be top of your list.

    Stretch every morning and night

    Stretching before bed and after waking up keeps your muscles and ligaments strong and healthy. Providing you don’t overexert yourself when stretching, stretching will help prevent back pain by loosening up your muscles.

    Work on your core strength

    If you have lower back pain, you might need to work on your core strength. A strong core prevents back pain by making lifting and moving easier. If your core is weak, then your back and other muscles in your body have to work harder.

    Healthline has a detailed guide on core exercises. The most important thing is to take it slow and build your core strength over time.

    Lose some weight

    Carrying extra pounds in your midsection shifts your centre of gravity and strains your lower back. You will also find it more challenging to do everyday things.

    Staying within five pounds of your ideal body weight is the perfect scenario. You can calculate your ideal weight using the NHS’s BMI calculator.

    Pay attention to your posture

    Your posture plays a significant role in back pain. Poor posture causes back pain by increasing the load on your spine, which causes weakness in your muscles. Over time, it can create chronic back pain that is hard to alleviate.

    Here are some of the most common posture mistakes:

    • Slouching in a chair
    • Standing with a flat back
    • Standing with one leg out
    • Hunching over when reading
    • Sticking your bottom out when standing

    Work at a comfortable height

    Whether you sit in front of an office desk or a welding desk all day, working at a comfortable height will prevent back pain.

    You can get an adjustable office chair or an adjustable workbench depending on what you do. Work on your posture if you stand all day (see above).

    Sit in the driver’s seat properly

    Your driver’s seat should be positioned so that your spine rests flat against it, and the chair should be high enough, so you don’t need to lean forwards.

    If your seat doesn’t have lumbar support and prone to lower back pain, you can place a small cushion behind your back instead.

    Use proper lifting technique

    Incorrect lifting can cause serious injury to your back and hips, from slipped discs to trapped nerves and muscle tears.

    Before lifting anything, consider if you can. If it is heavy, ask for help or use equipment that will lift for you or share the load.

    The Health and Safety Executive has an excellent guide to lifting correctly. As a rule, bend your hips and knees to squat down to your load and straighten your legs to lift. Don’t lean over the load or lift with your back.

  • Should You Wake A Baby for A Diaper Change?

    Should You Wake A Baby for A Diaper Change?

    We know how beautiful the new journey of parenthood is. Unfortunately, we also know the constant worry this stage brings. One of the biggest worries for new parents is their baby’s diaper changing routine. When is the optimum time to change their diaper? And do we wake them up for a diaper change?

    Fortunately, we have all these answers for you today. This article will highlight the various factors to consider if you think you need to wake your baby to change their diaper. We will also list the best times to change their diapers to allow them a peaceful nap. So, let’s get started!

    Things to Consider

    • Your Baby’s Skin Sensitivity

    Does your baby have super sensitive skin? If so, then they will be very much prone to diaper rashes. Also, if your baby already suffers from allergies or eczema, you have to change their diapers now and then. Just make sure to do it as gently as possible, and it won’t be a problem.

    • Type of Diaper You Are Using

    The kind of diaper you use is a massive factor in this debate. For example, if you use modern disposable diapers, you won’t need to change them very frequently. These are very absorbent, keeping your child comfortable and dry. Plus disposable natural baby diapers also lowers the risk of rashes on your baby’s soft skin.

    Again, if your baby’s diaper is too big or too small, it might leak often. Then you will have to change them to keep your baby dry. Also, cloth diapers are more problematic than disposable ones. They get wet faster and thus need to be changed frequently. We suggest if you use cloth ones during the day, switch them for disposable ones at night. At least the changing frequency will be less, allowing your baby some sleep.

    • The Wetness of the Diaper

    Several studies suggest letting our babies sleep unless they have pooped or are very wet. A little pee inside the diaper is fine, as it is made to hold a small amount of liquid. So unless you find the diaper to be soggy, no need to wake them up; your baby will wake up by themselves if uncomfortable in a wet or soggy diaper.

    • Whether It Is A Number 1 or 2

    If your baby becomes uncomfortable and seems a little fussy, check the diaper. If your baby has pooped, you have to change their diaper, as it now contains harmful bacteria that can cause rashes and infection.

    Again, if they pee a little, no need to change their diaper, but if the diaper seems wet, they have peed a lot, you have to change the diaper immediately. Even if it means waking them up in the middle of the night.

    Optimum Time to Change Your Baby’s Diaper

    • Before Bedtime

    Always make sure to put on a fresh diaper before your baby goes to sleep. This way, they can sleep longer without a change, giving them a peaceful nap.

    • During Their Feed

    If your baby only sleeps for 2-3 hours every time, the best time to change their diaper is during their feed. This way, even if they doze off during their diaper change, it will be with a relatively drier diaper. You can also change their baby diaper after the feed. This way, they will be semi-conscious and won’t be too difficult while you change.

    • Without Stimulation

    When you think you need to change your baby’s diaper during their sleep, try to change it without waking them up. Get the lights dim, and quietly and slowly do the work. Waking up your baby from their sleep will make them irritable, and it would be challenging to get them back to sleep.

    Conclusion

    And that’s all you need to know! We hope this article answered all your queries regarding baby diaper changing and when to do it. We wish you all the best on your new journey with your beloved little one!

  • 5 Factors To Consider Before Buying An Air Conditioner

    5 Factors To Consider Before Buying An Air Conditioner

    Do you consider all aspects before making a purchase? Do you weigh the pros and cons of a purchase? If the answer is no, you should start examining all important aspects of an item before buying it. An air conditioner is a vital piece of equipment responsible for the pollution levels and temperature of your home. When buying an Air Conditioner box hill, a few things to keep in mind to make the purchase worthwhile.

    Tips To Consider When Buying Air Conditioner

    1. Capacity

    The size of the room or residence and the amount of cooling required dictate the size of the air conditioner you should choose. The proper sizing of your air conditioner is critical to its efficiency and longevity. The capacity of an air conditioner is determined by various variables, including the room’s size, location, and several people. Calculate the tonnage or BTUs required for your house before purchasing an Air Conditioner box hill.

    2. Energy Efficiency

    The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) standardizes star-rated energy efficiency ratings for air conditioners (EER). Before purchasing an air conditioner, check the energy efficiency star rating: the more stars, the more efficient the air conditioner. Energy-efficient air conditioners consume less electricity, cutting utility expenses. Lower energy bills equal lower costs, so buy an AC with a better star rating or energy efficiency.

    3. Split or Window AC

    Window AC uses a single portable box that includes all critical components and is put on a room’s window. These are best for cooling a single room. Split ACs feature two independent units. It contains a blower, cooling coils and an air filter. The compressor, condenser coils, and capillary tubing are outside the AC unit. Split ACs can chill larger rooms better than window ACs. However, split Air Conditioner box hills are quieter and offer greater air dispersion.

    4. Air Quality:

    Indoor air quality is a consideration when purchasing an air conditioner. Improving the quality of your indoor air starts with a decent filter. The AC’s air filters assist in removing dirt and bacteria from the air and smoke and smell. A good filter not only cleans the air but also keeps dust and grime off the evaporator coil, boosting the AC’s performance and efficiency. Also, check for a dehumidifier in your air conditioner to minimize humidity in your room. Dehumidifying air conditioners give improved cooling and comfort.

    5. Cooling speed:

    You may adjust the thermostat and fans to achieve different temperatures at various times of the day. Establishing changeable pre-defined temperatures increases cooling efficiency while simultaneously lowering energy consumption.

    Choose the best quality Air Conditioner:

    You can search for such air conditioners online and check their reviews to choose the best one. Apart from that, you must check their installation guideline before you buy. Choose a company that offers an installation facility at your doorstep.

    You must choose an air conditioner according to the size of your rooms. You need to check the cooling capacity of such air conditioners before you buy because the inadequate cooling capacity and power loss can make your discomfort. So, you can call an expert and get your home inspected. They can suggest to you the best type of air conditioner within your budget.

    Conclusion

    Making the decision on which Air Conditioner box hill is best for you is a tough chore, but it is one that you must complete with care since it is so vital. Since an air conditioner is a large and costly device, making the incorrect option may cost you both money and comfort. We have highlighted the things to consider before purchasing an air conditioner in this article, which will assist you in selecting the most appropriate air conditioner for your needs.