Nursing Angel Blog

Nursery Decor

2012-03-15T13:02:00.002+11:00

Nursery Decor

Decorating a baby’s room is about ensuring the comfort of parents and the child. The décor style starts with the basics like the paint on the walls and also turns to other elements like bedding, wall art and toys. The key to designing and decorating a nursery is ensuring that that family is happy with the final product.

Wall Colors

The first part of decorating a baby’s nursery is selecting a wall color that puts the baby and parents at ease. The room is a place for the baby to rest and feel safe, so it needs to have colors on the wall that help encourage the feeling.

Depending on the goal parents have for the room, the best colors are options are often colors like blues, pinks, grays, greens and purples. These color are not too much to have a jarring feeling to parents while they stimulate a baby or help calm the baby.

Art on the Walls

Art on the walls is another element of the décor. Parents who feel comfortable with stenciling or putting up mosaics can make the walls of the room a work of art. Those who are planning for the baby to grow in the room or who feel uncomfortable with personally creating art might opt for nursery wall stickers instead. The nursery wall stickers are easy to put on, add some cute designs and are easy to remove as the baby gets older.

Furniture

The furniture is another element of the décor style. Parents need to choose carefully when looking for furniture so that it is safe for the baby and looks good against the colors on the wall. Furniture sets are an easy way to match the items while a mismatch style of different pieces can work for those who choose colors and materials carefully.

Bedding

The bedding is another element that can help improve the look of the baby’s room. Bedding can match the images of the stickers on the walls or can have a different theme based on parent’s preferences. Baby bedding is usually minimal to ensure the baby has few health hazards, but blankets and similar items should always feel soothing to parents and children.

The nursery décor is always best to have completed before the baby arrives. The space should feel comfortable to parents so that it will be a warm, loving space for the baby.

Top 10 Tips For Breastfeeding

2011-12-21T18:36:00.002+11:00

Top 10 Tips For Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding a baby can be a rewarding experience, and one that gives your child the absolute best start in life. By following these top 10 tips for breastfeeding, you can ensure a healthy start that will give your child a lifetime of benefits.

1. Before you have your baby, learn about breastfeeding positions, proper latching, and what to expect. The confidence you'll gain from your early preparation will make everything go smoother once your baby is born.

2. Enlist the support of family and friends. Consider joining a local breastfeeding support group, such as La Leche League, if there are meetings in your area.

3. Start breastfeeding as early as possible. If you can get your baby to latch on within the first hour after birth, it will be easier to establish the breastfeeding relationship.

4. Feed your baby whenever you notice signs of hunger. These can include rooting behaviors and putting the hands in the mouth. Avoid scheduling feedings and watch the baby's signs instead.

5. Bring the baby to you, not the other way around. Avoid leaning forward and shoving your breast into the baby's mouth. Instead, bring the baby up and toward the breast.

6. If anything hurts, get help as soon as possible. Contact a lactation consultant or one of the nurses at the hospital where you gave birth to help you set things right. If you wait, you might end up with nipple sores that make breastfeeding more difficult.

7. Make breastfeeding a priority. Let your doctor know how important it is to you, and don't let hospital staff, friends, or family members give the baby formula without your consent.

8. If you plan to return to work soon after your baby is born, invest in a high-quality pump and learn how to use it while you are still at home with your baby.

9. Keep track of your baby's diaper contents. This is the most reliable way to see if the baby is getting enough milk, since the amount you pump, how long your baby spends nursing each day and how full your breasts feel can be unreliable as indicators.

10. Keep in mind that your baby is an individual. If your breastfed baby is not growing as fast as your friend's baby or eating more times a day than your sister's infant did, this doesn't mean that there is a problem. All babies are different, and if yours is healthy and happy, then the breastfeeding relationship is working just fine.

For more tips check out the medical books at Elsevier Health. One of the best which is related to this subject is 100 Q & A About Breastfeeding.

Sleepy Wrap Baby Carrier, also known as the Boba Baby Wrap

2011-12-06T14:56:00.004+11:00

Christmas is way too close now.

Looking for a cool gift?

The Sleepy Wrap is the perfect for any Mum.

Light, easy to use, the ultimate comfort for baby.

The Sleepy Wrap, also known as the Boba Baby Wrap, is the ideal carrier for babies from birth until around 18 months, free of buckles, straps or snaps! Simply tie the material snug against your body and achieve a perfect fit every time – perfect for beginners and advance babywearers alike.

We currently have the Sleepy Wrap on special at only $39.95.

How to Keep Your Baby Healthy

2011-12-01T16:40:00.003+11:00

How to Keep Your Baby Healthy

Having a healthy baby is the most wonderful gift any parent can wish for, and keeping baby healthy, especially in those newborn days, is a source of worry for new mums and dads. Those first few weeks, before you begin to understand the non-verbal cues your baby gives you, can be fraught with frustration as you wonder what crying might indicate, or if he or she is sleeping too much or not enough. Is she simply wet, hungry, in need of a nap? Could it be something more dire? Luckily, you don’t need to take nursing courses in order to know when to react and what to do.

It’s difficult to know, as a brand-new parent, when to call the doctor. The general rule to follow is if baby is running a fever, crying inconsolably, listless, or anytime you sense something is even a bit “off”, check with your pediatrician. Your physician won’t mind and is probably used to new parent woes. Keeping baby healthy begins with a good doctor/patient relationship.

There are also a few preventative tips you can follow. First and foremost, always wash your hands. This is just a good habit to get into for everyone who comes into contact with the baby. Thoroughly washing your hands will serve to keep you and the rest of your family relatively cold and flu free, or limit your exposure significantly. Hand sanitizer is a good substitute when soap and water are not available. Do this each and every time you handle your newborn.

Don’t expose your baby to secondhand smoke. Studies show secondhand smoke increases upper respiratory viruses in babies, as well as children and adults. Ask smokers to take it outside. Keep disinfectant wipes with you at all times when you leave home. Wipe down any surface which may come into contact with your baby. Invest in a shopping cart seat cover. Other children have been in that same seat. Don’t neglect disinfecting all areas of the shopping cart. Remember babies love to put their mouths on everything!

In cooler weather, keep a hat on your baby. A good deal of your body heat is lost through your head and a chill can reduce immunity, even if minimally. Keep up with your baby’s immunization schedule. Immunizations don’t just keep baby well, they protect the rest of the family from common, yet deadly, diseases and illnesses. Finally, breast is best, so if you are able, breastfeed your baby to help build immunities. If you are unable to breastfeed your baby, discuss what formulas are best for your infant with your pediatrician.

Keeping your baby healthy is a joint effort between you and your baby’s doctor. Remember that your pediatrician is your greatest ally and the best advocate for your baby’s health. Make sure you are timely about keeping those well-baby check ups and never feel that you are “bothering” your pediatrician with off-hour concerns. If he or she is a caring, understanding and experienced professional, then he or she will understand your trepidation and prefer that you err on the side of caution.

Win an Itzbeen Baby Care Timer

2011-10-13T00:54:00.001+11:00

We're giving away an Itzbeen Baby Care Timer! This handy gadget helps new parents and carers keep track of baby care details such as feeding, changing, sleep and more. Entries close on 31/10/11.

This competition has now ended. Congratulations to the winner Melissa Wishaw!

New - Hands Free Pumping Bustier

2011-10-04T20:24:00.000+11:00

If you use an electric breast pump regularly, you'll love the new Simple Wishes Hands Free Pumping Bustier! It allows you to pump hands free, so you can do other things when you're pumping. The soft and comfortable bustier holds the pump breast shields in place (so you don't have to!) and features an adjustable band for a custom fit. Use the computer, read a magazine, tend to baby or even fold the washing when pumping. When pump battery power is used, you also have the flexibility to move around. Compatible with all major breast pump brands (single and double). Two adjustable sizes: XS/S/M and L/XL/XXL.

Shipping Update - Public Holiday on 3 October 2011

2011-09-29T14:12:00.000+10:00

Please note that Monday, 3 October 2011 is a public holiday in NSW and we won't be shipping orders on this date as our warehouse will be closed. Our regular shipping schedule resumes on Tuesday :)

Medela Swing Breast Pump + BONUS

2011-09-29T14:06:00.000+10:00

The Medela Swing Breast Pump is now on sale with free shipping. Also included is a free Medela Calma Solitaire Teat (RRP $24.50) and a fantastic bonus gift pack! This special offer is available while stocks last.

Win a Weleda Luxury Baby Care Gift Pack

2011-09-02T00:08:00.002+10:00

Win a Weleda Luxury Baby Care Gift Pack valued at $100. All customers who purchase Weleda Nursing Tea Bags in September 2011 automatically go into the draw to win this fantastic prize.

Weleda is delighted to be offering a Luxury Baby Care Gift Pack of all natural products complete with our Calendula Oil, Calendula Lotion, Calendula Shampoo & Bodywash, Nipple Care Cream and our best seller, the Calendula Nappy Change Cream. Good Luck!

About Weleda:
Weleda Mother & Baby products gently care for your baby or child's ultra-sensitive skin, sourcing only the finest ingredients from specially selected biodynamic and organic farms to produce health-enhancing herbal and homoeopathic formulas. Weleda products are free from synthetic fragrances, colours, preservatives, emulsifying agents and parabens. We do not test our body care products on animals. For more information about Weleda Mother and Baby care see www.weleda.com.au.

This competition has now ended. Congratulations to the winner Lisa Miller!

Free Tote Bag Offer

2011-09-01T23:56:00.000+10:00

For a limited time only, you can receive a FREE Tote Bag valued at $19.95 when purchasing any two Bebe Au Lait Nursing Covers or Hooter Hiders Nursing Covers (or one of each brand).

Click here for details on how to claim your free Tote Bag.

HOTmilk Sale

2011-07-30T20:24:00.000+10:00

All HOTmilk maternity and nursing sleepwear is now on sale, including new arrivals. Gorgeous pajamas, nighties, camisoles and briefs...some fantastic bargains here!

Medela Soft Fit Breastshield - Last Stock

2011-07-30T20:17:00.001+10:00

The Medela Soft Fit Breastshield has been discontinued as a spare part. We've managed to get the last batch available, so if you're a fan of the Soft Fit do stock up now. Although the Soft Fit will still be included as one of the breastshield options with some new pumps, it will no longer be available for separate purchase if a replacement is required once we've sold out of existing stock. The Medela Personal Fit Breastshield Kit will then be the standard breastshield available for separate purchase if a spare is required.

Win a $200 Gift Certificate

2011-07-10T10:16:00.002+10:00

Yah, another competition! Write a product review for your chance to win a $200 Nursing Angel Gift Certificate. We’d love to know what you think about the products on our website (whether you purchased them at Nursing Angel or elsewhere). Your reviews are so important as they provide genuine feedback to other shoppers & also give us valuable information to help improve our range. Please click here for full details & how to enter.

This competition has now ended. Congratulations to the winner Tem Kam and thank you to everyone who entered - your reviews are invaluable and a great help to others!

It's Sale Time!

2011-06-25T12:51:00.001+10:00

Our mid year sale is now on. Check out the bargains in the Sale category. Happy shopping!

Common Ameda & Medela Questions

2011-06-25T12:47:00.000+10:00

Click here to view one of our most popular blog posts which covers the common questions we get asked about Ameda and Medela breast pumps.

Second Hand Breast Pumps - The Risks

2011-06-25T09:12:00.015+10:00

We get many enquiries from customers after parts for a second hand breast pump. While it may be economical and practical to buy a used breast pump or lend one from a friend, it's important to know about the potentially serious health consequences associated with buying or borrowing a used pump.

Hospital grade hire breast pumps are the only pumps recommended for use by more than one person: they have closed systems which are specifically designed for multi-users in conjunction with a individual's sterile pump kit.

Unlike hospital grade hire models, retail breast pumps are specifically designed for single mum use only. Use by more than one person can pose a health risk because breastmilk is a body fluid. This risk still exists even if all parts of a second hand pump that come into contact with breastmilk are thoroughly sterilised or replaced. This is because it is possible for air-born pathogens or droplets of milk that are not visible to the naked eye to remain in the internal pump motor which can cause contamination to the next user. The risks are of such a concern that the US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has even issued a statement about used retail breast pumps that includes "You should never buy a used breast pump or share a breast pump".

Serious or life threatening diseases - such as HIV, hepatitis and cytomegalovirus (CMV) - can be found in the breastmilk or blood of infected women. Other very difficult to clear fungal infections such as candidiasis (yeast / thrush) may also be transitioned. Yeast organisms are very stubborn pathogens that can live on surfaces for long periods. Additionally, if a woman has used the breast pump during an episode of cracked bleeding nipples, blood contamination may have also occurred. These diseases and infections frequently go undiagnosed for long periods of time, so even if the former user of the pump is trustworthy and willing to share this personal health information with you, she may not be aware she or her partner are carriers. For more information about the risks associated with using a second hand breast pump, please see our lactation consultant's Breastfeeding Q&A section.

Hopefully one day the breast pump manufacturers will make retail pumps that can be safely used by more than one person. At present, however, all retails pumps are designed for use by one person only and it is very important that mothers are aware that buying or borrowing a used pump can expose her and baby to potentially serious health risks.

Free Gift with Order Promotion

2011-06-25T08:26:00.001+10:00

Click here to find out how to receive this Nursing Reminder Band for free when placing an order with Nursing Angel. Easily keep track of breastfeeding sides with this cute embossed silicone band (available in pink or blue) which can later be added to baby's keepsake box.

Shipping Update - Public Holiday 13/6/11

2011-06-11T19:13:00.001+10:00

Monday 13/6/11 is a public holiday in all other states except WA. We're located in Sydney NSW so no orders will be dispatched from Nursing Angel on this day (our packing staff are taking a well deserved break!) Normal shipping schedule resumes on Tuesday.

Welcome to our new & improved website!

2011-06-01T12:08:00.004+10:00

The team at Nursing Angel have been busy getting our website upgraded and it's finally been launched today. All the same fabulous products, specialty items and helpful resources ... with a new look, faster speed, easier navigation and lots of features to improve your shopping experience! Be sure to let us know what you think: we love hearing from you and appreciate all feedback from our customers.

Note: Existing customers will need to create a new account (click on Create An Account at the top of the page at www.nursingangel.com.au or during checkout) as unfortunately we were unable to transfer existing customer accounts into the new system. Apologies for the inconvenience! Please do contact us if you require order history details prior to June 2011.

Freestyle Offer - Get 50% Off the Medela Calma with 150ml Bottle

2011-05-05T20:51:00.001+10:00

This month we have a special offer for customers purchasing the Medela Freestyle Breast Pump. In addition to receiving a free gift pack with purchase, you can also receive 50% off the Medela Calma with 150ml Bottle. Known as the 'breastfeeding friendly bottle', it is designed for nursing mothers who don't want bottle feeding to interfere with breastfeeding. The innovative Calma teat allows baby to maintain their natural suckling pattern, making the transition from breast to bottle and back again much easier.

This promotion has now ended.

Win a BabyBjorn Synergy Baby Carrier & matching cover

2011-05-05T17:22:00.003+10:00

Thanks to the lovely people at BabyBjorn, we have a Synergy Baby Carrier in Marine Blue and matching cover to give away this month to one of our facebook fans. If you're not already a fan of the Nursing Angel facebook page, here's a great reason to 'like' us... this fantastic prize is valued at RRP $319.90! The Synergy is one of our bestsellers and it’s easy to see why: superior comfort, support and versatility all rolled into one.

To enter, simply become a fan of the BabyBjorn Australia facebook page and then answer this question: How many years has BabyBjorn been in business? (Hint: Check out their website: http://www.babybjorn.com.au/). Email your answer and your full 'facebook' name to info@nursingangel.com.au. Good luck!

This competition has now ended. Congratulations to the winner Jodie Malone!

Herbal Teas for Nursing

2011-05-03T16:20:00.002+10:00

Written by Su-lin Sze, Naturopath and consultant to Weleda, manufacturer of holistic products for mother and baby.

If you are a lactating mother, and you have not yet been introduced to herbal teas for nursing, then tune in and get inspired! Even if you have been using herbal teas already to support you in motherhood, it’s always interesting to know a little more about the nutritious medicines that you are taking. Herbal teas are especially useful when your baby is going through a feeding spurt, and you are not producing enough milk to meet these demands. Weleda Nursing Tea is highly regarded internationally for it’s effectiveness and purity.

Common Herbs used in Nursing Teas today
Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) has both a rich flavour and history of use in breastfeeding mothers. It has been used to boost milk production, and also to treat colic in babies since antiquity. It enhances digestion by preventing flatulence and cramping. So it’s ideal for lactation. No good nursing tea would be without Fennel!

Caraway (Carum carvi) is from the same plant family as Fennel, the Umbelliferae family, and when you compare the two plants physically you see that they both grow erect, with many branches that shoot out from the main stem and are topped with umbrella-like clusters of tiny flowers. Caraway is a wonderful lactation and anti-colic herb, just like fennel. However it’s used extensively in breads, sauerkraut, cheeses and digestive liquors throughout Europe. It also improves iron absorption in nursing mothers.

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) is an enhancer of breast development, and has long been used for lactation. I’ve known women who have experienced an increase in breast milk production with this herb who were not even breastfeeding at the time! Another reason why fenugreek is great for nursing mums is it helps your body regulate blood glucose levels, thus improving energy production and reducing carbohydrate cravings!

Anise (Pimpinella anisum). We use the deliciously sweet seeds of anise for their high content of volatile oil, which is responsible for it’s powerful anti-flatulence and anti-colic activities. It’s from the same family as Fennel and Caraway, with its own umbrella-like clusters of tiny flowers.

Lemon Verbena has historically been used to promote healthy milk flow. It’s also a soothing relaxant, and helps to make breastfeeding a more harmonious experience.

In some situations it may be necessary to slow down your production of milk. In this case it’s best to consult a professional herbalist. They will use herbs such as sage (salvia officinalis) to achieve this.

Nursing Teas are a wonderful support for mother and baby throughout lactation and even beyond. There’s no time like the present to make sure that you are both receiving the best, natural nutrition possible. Happy Nursing!

WIN a Weleda Samples Pack by joining the Weleda AU facebook page and answering this question: Name one of the herbal teas mentioned in the article that helps to boost milk production in breastfeeding mothers. Email your answer and postal details to weledamotherandbaby@yahoo.com.au, 10 winners will be chosen at random by 7 June 2011. Good luck!

This competition has now closed. The winners have now been contacted by Weleda.

Win a Hooter Hiders Nursing Cover

2011-03-21T10:55:00.002+11:00

Become a fan of our facebook page by 15/4/11 for your chance to win a Hooter Hiders Nursing Cover in the gorgeous new sandalwood print. Hooter Hiders - yes, a great name for a breastfeeding cover! - are beautifully made, stylish and practical, with a rigid neckline so you can maintain eye contact with baby. A matching drawstring carry bag is also included. Click here to see our full range of Hooter Hiders.

This competition has now ended. Congratulations to the winner Stacee Huish!

Facebook Like + Win

2011-01-23T14:18:00.004+11:00

If you're not already a fan of our Facebook page, here's a great reason to become one! In January we are giving away a Bebe Au Lait Gift Set to one of our lucky facebook fans. Beautifully packaged, the new gift sets will be available shortly in Australia and include a nursing cover with three matching burp cloths. We have a Soft Spot set to giveaway. To enter, simply be a fan of our facebook page on 31/1/11 when the draw will be held. Click here to become a fan.

This competition has now ended. Congratulations to the winner Amanda Dale!

Medela Promotion - Free PureLan

2011-01-23T14:14:00.002+11:00

For a limited time only, we have a fantastic Medela promotion on. Receive a free Medela PureLan 100 Nipple Cream 7g (RRP $8.90) with EVERY Medela product ordered! This bestselling cream soothes sore, sensitive and dry nipples. There is no need to remove prior to breastfeeding. It can also be used for dry baby skin. Limit 5 per customer.

This promotion has now ended.