Mama's got a Brand New Babe Review and Giveaway!

Welcome to the Mama's Got a Brand New Babe giveaway event, hosted by Going Green with the Grizls and Sew Fatty! This event will run from April 24th - May 8th and we will finish off with a Twitter party on May 9th from 9-10 PM EST!

Each blogger located on the linky below has put together an awesome prize suitable for either a new parent or baby worth a minimum of $25. =) Be sure to enter to win of TWO fabulous grand prizes!! Each prize is worth over $ and are made up of the perfect new baby and parent gift including prizes from an amazing list of sponsors including Boba, Gen-Y, Bamboobies, Kissed By the Moon, and Bummis!

Be sure to attend the Twitter party on May 9th from 9-10 EST to participate in the live drawing for the grand prizes. There will also be special prizes specifically for the Twitter party. You must tweet at least once during the party to be eligible to win.


Hashtag: #MamasBabe

Hosts: @GreenGrizls & @SewFatty

Now for my giveaway!! 

I'm so excited to write this post, for two reasons. 1) I get to introduce Bumkins' new and improved One-Size (OS) cloth diaper and 2) It includes a giveaway of not one but TWO brand new cloth diapers!

So let's get started. Local retailer, Zoolikins has generously agreed to sponsor the items for review and giveaway. Last year Bumkins revealed their new line-up of diapers which included changes to their sizing. The new cut fits a smaller baby while still fitting most toddlers. I have seen this diaper on a 7lb newborn (I will be able to personally test this theory come August!) and it fits my 23lb 19month old like a glove! I never cloth diapered B when he was a newborn, so I don't have a newborn "stash". As I start to grow a stash for baby #2, I'm noticing that most newborn AIO diapers have a limited shelf life--about 12-15lbs max and then they're ruled out. At $13-$15 a piece, that seems like a lot of money to invest in for such a short time period.  I like the idea that this diaper can fit a newborn and continue to be used as the baby grows, truly the definition of a OS diaper in my opinion.

A side by side of the new Bumkins sized as small as it can go, next to a Lil Joey newborn diaper

This brand new release of diapers reveals a bunch of "upgrades" to its predecessor. It keeps the same sizing for newborns on up, but they've also improved the PUL. This diaper not only has a waterproof PUL but also a TPU layer. (Without getting off-topic too much, here's a great article by my friend Julie about the difference between PUL and TPU). Anyway, this new waterproofing creates amazing leak protection while still being easily maintained. When you run your finger along the inside and outside of this diaper you can actually feel the difference in the material, it almost feels thicker, more secure than other brands, or other releases of Bumkins. Sticking with the outside appearance, Bumkins finally has SOLID colors! You know I'm a print junkie (to satisfy that, they have released Turtles in the new PUL/TPU) as much as the next person, but solids are great for multiple children-keeping it gender neutral.

So soft and thick!

In addition to improvements to the outside of this diaper, the inside had some "work done" too. The inner fabric for their Snap-In One diaper is a super soft cotton/bamboo blend. I love this because it's soft natural fibers against B's sensitive skin. The insert that this diaper comes with is a nice, soft, super-absorbent minky one, so you get the benefits of synthetics with the softness and absorbency of natural fibers right next to baby's skin. If you prefer all natural fibers, Bumkins also makes a snap in bamboo/cotton insert. This can easily be swapped out for the minky and makes this already trim diaper EVEN trimmer.

The snap in minky next to the snap in bamboo/cotton insert

The natural fiber inner makes the leg gussets roll in to create a seal

The fit of this diaper is smaller than most OS diapers, but not "too small" in my opinion to work for my toddler. Because it is made with a natural fiber inner, the legs roll in to create an awesome seal. Naptime, car seats, and a nasty stomach virus have proven to be no match for this diaper. There also is an extra bit of elastic along the top of the front of the diaper. It's kind of hard to see when it's on, but what it does is help the diaper to create a "seal" of sorts around the waist as well to prevent any leaking up the front. A definite necessity for boys and tummy sleepers.

A close-up of the elastic around the tummy

Everything stays nice and tucked! From the belly to the legs

B was lucky enough to be a tester for these diapers (one of the benefits of living in the same town as Bumkins ;)) and I could not wait for these to be released. The natural fibers, the soft inserts, the trim fit and the snug sizing make this my new favorite diaper.

So, now that your excited and ready to go, here's what's in it for you. Simply fill out the Rafflecopter form below for your chance to win 2 of the new Bumkins Snap-In One OS diapers. If you can't wait for the giveaway to end, you can always order yours through Zoolikins online! Oh, and one more thing, the new PUL/TPU also comes in their AIO and Stuff-It pocket diaper if you'd like to try other options as well!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

**Disclaimer: I was provided the product for review purposes. The opinions expressed are solely my own and may differ from your own. No other compensation was received**

Cloth Diapering a Newborn

One of my few life regrets is not starting B in cloth sooner. I've already admitted my shortcomings and my "pre-mom" judgements and I'll admit, the idea of cloth diapering was very intimidating. But, I now get to live vicariously through my cousin. She is due with her own little "bean" on Christmas of this year and is planning to cloth diaper from day one! I know it's hard to believe but, I'm in her corner 100%! The only issue is she lives cross country :(. So, I'm doing this all via mail, Skype, and letters. 

Not being able to be hands on and show her all the different types of systems that are out there, I figured she should just start with a little of eveything. I wanted her to be able to find out what diapering system she prefers and what's going to fit her little guy best so here's what we're starting with: 

3 BumGenius Newborn AIO's

1 GroVia Newborn AIO

1 BottomBumper Size Small AI2

4 Bumkins newborn covers

2 Rump-A-Rooz lil joey covers

6 Bumkins Infant Contours

12 Indian Cotton Bumkin Prefolds

3 Thirsties Duo Fab Fitteds size one

3 Bumkins OS AIO's (new fit which has been known to fit a 7.5 pounder!)

I think that's it, I could be wrong, but I'm pretty sure that covers everything for the newborn part at least. I'd love to hear your comments or advice for those of you that have used cloth since day one!!

WAHM Wednesday: Kalypso Twist

WAHM Wednesday is back ladies and gentlemen, after a brief one-week hiatus, I'm back with a new mama made cloth diaper, and ONE for a lucky reader too! 

This next business, Kalypso Twist is a new favorite of mine for a few reasons:

• She's local. The lady behind this business is just around the corner, so to speak, from me, and I always love working with and supporting local business. 
• She has a great product. There's way more than just the "cute" factor going into these lovely diapers
• She is an absolute gem to work with! Ms. Kalypso Twist, or Amber to her friends, is always quick to answer an email about her diapers and products, and is even able to do repairs on other diapers! (Like certain sized diapers that seem to have elastic that loosens up too quickly :) ) 

 WAHM's never cease to amaze me with their talent and ability to multi-task, but when I started learning more about Amber and her business, I was shocked to find out she had never sewn before making diapers! This is coming from someone who struggles with making napkins, to meet someone who never sewed a stitch and now makes a fantastic diaper, call me awe-struck! And diapers aren't her only interest! She's also working on developing another new product in her "free-time"! I love her entrepreneurial spirit!

Ok, ok, I get it, enough with the "behind the scenes", let's get to the diaper! When you place an order from Kalypso Twist, you can do it directly from Hyena cart. She has some ready to go diapers, but she also conducts a lot of her business through custom orders. She starts her custom orders by having you choose your fabric, any fabric you want through Fabric.com. She will make your choice of a pocket or an AI2 diaper. Each diaper has your fabric on the outer, a hidden PUL, and a stay-dry inner. Each diaper also comes with a handmade bamboo fleece insert. Super absorbent and super versatile!! Since there are so many options for customization, pricing is based on what you choose! What a great way to make sure you stay in budget!

Amber graciously offered up my choice of a pocket or AI2 diaper for review. I chose to review the pocket and giveaway the AI2. Although, when I saw the two diapers side by side, I almost had to rethink my choice! Both diapers were so stunning to look at, it was so hard to pick just one! That's saying a lot for someone who has yet to find an AI2 that I like! 

So let's chat about the pocket diaper. The guitar fabric is one I've been lusting over for a while now, and I was so glad to see how Amber put it together on this diaper. The colors are great and really stand out! (On a side note, I posted a picture of my "stash" to a local CD meetup group and a couple people picked out the guitar diaper right away as a favorite, and I like to think I have a very colorful/pattern heavy stash!). The diaper came with the insert laid out and wash/care instructions. This is always the worst part for me, the waiting to have this puppy washed and ready to wear! 

Can you see the "ruffle"?

Alas, the day came and I got to try this on my little man! I was surprised at how easily I was able to stuff the tri-fold insert into the back of the pocket. There was no maneuvering, special folding, or tucking. Just a simple tri-fold and it popped right in. Once I got B all locked and loaded, I noticed the leg holes almost seemed to "ruffle" . I really don't have any other word to describe it and since he was such a wiggle-worm when taking pictures the one I managed to get is still a little blurry, but anyway. The "ruffle" actually worked to my advantage--as I believe it's supposed to. It gave him room to move his chunky thighs without seeing those redmarks we've all come to notice on cloth babies!

What's even better is that there were no leaks at all with this diaper, ruffles and all, everything stayed right in place! I loved it because it made me feel like he was more comfortable in this diaper, since his legs had a bit more breathing room, and I didn't have to worry about outfit changes! :) The overlapping waist snaps gave him a great fit up top and still plenty of room to grow! This has also proven to be a new go-to for Polish Prince. He loves the print and likes that there are only one row of snaps to worry about when getting him changed. I think I'm going to have to make a stamp or something that says "Daddy approved" because let's face it, sometimes what daddy wants in a diaper and what mommy wants can be two very different things!! :) Overall, I'm very impressed with the quality of this diaper/insert combo. I may even have to give the AI2 a whirl since I may be falling in love over here and it just looks so pretty. I can only imagine the quality and fit are just as amazing as this pocket!

Fits like a glove!

No pants necessary!

Just to get you all even more excited, I've taken pictures of the lovely diaper that one of you lucky ducks will get to win! It's an AI2, complete with snapping insert, in a bright, fun, gender-neutral gecko print. The only request I will make to the winner is that you let me know how much you love it when you get it! Deal? Ok, enter on the Rafflecopter below!! 

Look at those great colors!

Behind this insert is a snap at the top to keep it in place!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Zoolikins!

This store gets their own post. I absolutely LOVE Zoolikins. To make sure I get this right, I'm quoting their website "It's a mother-owned and operated boutique focusing on safe, creative, natural products for baby and beyond; located in Old Town Scottsdale." When I first started with cloth-diapering, I would spend a good chunk of time there. The mommies that work there are not only super knowledgeable, but patient as well!! I'm still learning the CD terminology, and they have a great way of teaching you the necessary vocabulary without making you feel dumb! :) After my first couple pop-in sessions, I came out with a pretty clear understanding of the terminology. This was how I discovered my love for pockets, AIO's and AI2's. I'd almost venture to say (should baby #2 be in our future) I would give pre-folds a try! This is also why my stash is varied. Every time I go in there I get a tutorial on a new or different type of diaper and get inspired to give it a try!

Not only do they have a great selection of cloth diapers to learn about and explore (I'm a hands-on learner myself), but they have a little baby-wearing section too. You can just pop in and ask questions or sign up for any of their FREE cloth diapering and baby-wearing classes. Talk about a great service to the community!! My friend Amie and I have been frequenting the shop in the past couple months and they know us by name, and even when we go separately, they will mention the other person. What great customer service!! Polish Prince likes them too. He tends to get lost in the game/toy section! :) When we popped in yesterday, I promised him it would be a quick trip, I found him looking at all the fun wooden toys and skip hop gear! You know it's a good store when even dad's don't mind going!

I "like" them on Facebook and was excited to see they are offering a FREE baby music class at the end of the month. You can bet I'm going to be there! That will be a review to come later! :). Another note regarding their Facebook page. They are great about answering any questions you have regarding cloth diapering right on their Facebook wall. And if for some small reason they can't troubleshoot what you're going through, you can always call and they'll talk you through it over the phone. 

Long story short: I have no problem spending money at this store and feeling like I'm getting a good product that's been tested and retested and the moms there have personal experience with. You can also buy online and ship anywhere, or buy online and pick up locally. Totally convenient! Zoolikins has no clue that I'm doing this review, but I think I'll share it with them on Facebook just for some free publicity for them. I can't say enough good things about this place! I hope if you're in Scottsdale or cruising the internet for some fluff you'll check them out!!