If you’re here, it’s safe to assume you’re either already a cloth convert or you’re doing some research into whether the ‘Modern Cloth Nappies’ (or “MCN”) world is right for you. I’m not here to imply that using disposable nappies are ‘bad’. Sometimes, you just don’t have the energy to sort through another load of laundry, or you might be travelling overseas and don’t have enough checked baggage for a dedicated cloth nappy suitcase. What I do want to focus on are the benefits of using cloth…

The truth about cloth nappies: are they actually less expensive?

The cost of raising a baby is one of the biggest financial challenges new parents face. One of the most significant ongoing expenses is nappies. An average baby will use between 6 and 12 nappies per day depending on their age, which can add up to over $1,000 per year. Like many parents and parents-to-be, you might have already thought about the cost comparison between reusable and disposable nappies - but what happens when we factor in the water, energy and detergent used to wash reusable…

Taking the sting out of nappy rash

Nappy rash is very common and can pop up anytime no matter how diligent you are. Nappy rash mainly occurs when baby’s skin is covered by a wet or soiled nappy for too long. ‘Too long’ can vary from one baby to other and maybe influenced by whether your baby is teething or unwell. Some babies will hardly get any nappy rash, while others will get a lot, it depends on how sensitive their skin is. Nappy rash is caused by germs on the baby’s skin, in faeces, urine and on clothing (including nappies)…

Breastfeeding problems – supply concerns

Does your baby want to feed more frequently or drink for shorter periods, or do your breasts seem softer? These are all completely normal occurrences but may worry you. Around 35 per cent of all women who stop breastfeeding early state their main reason as not having enough milk. Ask your health professional or breastfeeding counsellor for advice before you stop breastfeeding, as there may be another reason for your lack of milk. The following things may lead women to falsely assume they’re not…

How to choose the best travel changing mat

A travel change mat is essential for making nappy changes when you are out and about, and most come with a pocket or two for holding all your nappy change essentials. So what makes the best stand out from the rest? Here’s what to look for when choosing a baby change mat or nappy wallet: 1. Cushioned pad for your baby’s head. A newborn’s head is especially delicate, particularly if they’ve come into the world with a vacuum or forceps delivery, so a padded section for your baby’s head is…

How to choose your Nappy Bag?

Nappy bags are a great way of carrying your baby's essentials, such as nappies, wipes, bottles and dummies. There are lots of bags on the market, ranging from the very basic to the deluxe. Before you buy here's what to look for: Your nappy bag should be spacious Easy to carry Hold a change of baby clothes, feeding essentials, as well as wipes, creams and nappies Have wipe clean lining, a change mat and ideally an insulated bottle holder or compartment An adjustable cross-body strap to make it…

Your guide to toilet training

Toilet training your toddler may take time and patience. This is a developmental step and will only happen when they are ready. The following guide aims to share information around when your toddler may be ready and willing to participate in toilet training and provides ideas on how to support them through this developmental stage. A child is considered to be toilet trained when he or she initiates going to the bathroom and can adjust clothing according to their age and development. Karitane…

What to take on your first day out with your newborn

What to take on your first day out with your newborn By Redsbaby The time has finally arrived where you’re ready to face the world, with your newborn by your side. It can be nerve wracking and even a little scary, but as long as you’re organised it’ll be the first of hundreds. The first time you pack for your first outing with your newborn, it may feel like you’re packing for a month-long stint overseas somewhere. Don’t fear; this is totally normal. It’s much better to over prepare, and if…

Baby skin conditions

Your baby’s skin is very sensitive. It is not necessary to use shampoos, powders, oils, baby solutions or baby soaps. Some products may contain perfumes and other ingredients that can irritate your baby’s skin. Simple is best. All you need is water, a lotion containing sorbolene and glycerine or an organic chemical free product for dry skin, low irritant baby wipes for cleaning baby’s bottom, and a thick cream containing zinc and castor oil or an organic chemical free product for protecting…

What is the range of 'normal' when breastfeeding?

All babies feed differently, this talk hopes to reassure mothers and families about the wide range of "normal" in breastfeeding. This talk will give mothers an understanding of why their baby likes to feed in a certain pattern and helps boost their confidence with breastfeeding. This Bupa Parenting Insights talk is given by Katie James, the Education Manager with Medela. Katie is also a Midwife and Lactation Consultant. Katie focuses on the following topics: What is the most common reason to…

What to pack in your pregnancy hospital bag

What to pack in your pregnancy hospital bag By Michelle Ruzzene, Angel Maternity It’s hard to imagine you’ll be going into hospital and emerging just days (or hours if you’re lucky) later with a whole new little person in your life. Bringing that fabulous little person into your life will be that much easier with a little organisation. It’s a good idea to have your hospital packed and ready to go from about the time you reach your third trimester - although you may expect to stay home until the…

Practical tips on how to care for your newborn

When bringing your baby home for the first time you may feel excited but also nervous – each baby is different and they don’t come with their own manual. Mater Mothers’ Hospitals has provided some practical tips on getting through those first few weeks. Nappy changing Gather everything you need and place it all within easy reach before you commence a nappy change so that you are not tempted to leave your baby unattended on a change table, for whatever reason The height of the change table or…

5 signs of low supply and practical ways to fix it

Are you concerned you’re not producing enough milk for your baby? Worrying about your milk supply can be hard, stressful and draining, both physically and emotionally. Low supply is a breastfeeding challenge that mums typically encounter during the first few weeks with their little one. While studies show it affects around 10% to 15% of mothers, many lactation consultants report it's one of the biggest reasons they receive calls for help. So, let’s go straight to the experts. We had the…

Let's talk sanitary products, sustainable edition

With the much-anticipated release of our Cloth Pads maybe you’ve been wondering what other eco-friendly options there are to help you manage that time of month? Maybe you’ve been thinking about it for a while and aren’t too sure where to start? Or maybe you’re a veteran reusable owner and some of your products are due for an upgrade! With so many different options though it can be a little daunting to know where to begin which is why we’ve written this piece! We’ve looked into the Top 3 Most…

16 Incredibly Cool Facts About Your Baby

Cute, cuddly and full of curiosity, babies are amazing to say the least. A baby can brighten a room with its smile, melt a heart with its laugh and provide a whole new perspective on life. But we already know this about our little ones. What you may not know is that babies are not only filled with sweetness, but also the subject of a plethora of astonishing facts that prove babies really are the most remarkable little things on the planet. Prepare to be blown away by these 16 riveting…

What is 'normal' in breastfeeding?

What a great question! What is ‘normal’ when it comes to breast feeding? Many women are often confused by all the information they are given when they become pregnant, and that only seems to increase once baby is born and then everyone has a tip on how best to feed/change or settle your baby! It can be really confusing and sometimes stressful to know how best to look after your precious new bundle. Humans are designed to learn new skills by watching others first; we talk to our children and…

Fever and your child

Fever, which is a high temperature, is common in children. It’s a normal response to many illnesses, the most common being an infection in the body. Fever itself is usually not harmful, in fact it helps the body’s immune system fight off infection. While your child’s fever is concerning to you, doctors will usually be more concerned about what is causing the fever and not what your child’s temperature is. It is more important for you to monitor any signs of the underlying illness, rather than…

The cost of childcare in Australia

Childcare is a necessary cost for a lot of families to place their child/children in care while they work, for early education reasons or simply for a necessary break to re-charge. While the cost of childcare in Australia is not free, the Federal Government does support parents and can provide financial assistance in the form of Child Care Subsidy (CCS), provided parents meet the requirements. What is covered in daily fees? 5 nutritious and multicultural meals a day prepared by an on-site cook…

What are the benefits of breastfeeding?

Breast is best! Here at Tresillian (https://www.tresillian.org.au/) we strongly encourage breastfeeding. For baby, breastmilk is the ideal food as it satisfies both thirst and hunger and provides all the nutrition your baby needs for the first six months. It contains antibodies that increase your baby’s immunity. Research shows that breastfed babies often have lower cholesterol and blood pressure and lower rates of obesity into adulthood. Breastmilk is also free and very portable! Many parents…

Essentials for getting your hospital bag ready

The final weeks of pregnancy can feel like forever, but your baby will soon be on the way, so it is important to be prepared and have your hospital bag handy. Packing your hospital bag can actually be a nice experience, as it means you are that little bit closer to the big day. And, being prepared might also help you feel a bit more relaxed. It is recommended to get your hospital bag with all your essentials ready by week 36. Here are some ideas on what to bring for you, your baby, and your…

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Are cloth nappies better for your baby?