What does the Asthma Allergy Nordic logo guarantee?
The Asthma Allergy Nordic offers certification to products that pose a minimal of causing skin allergy. Products certified according to Asthma Allergy Nordic contain no perfume, and every ingredient is carefully examined by a specialist. This symbol makes it easier for those with skin allergies, asthma or other respiratory distress to find products that makimprove everyday life.

What is the difference between biodegradable & compostable?
When a product is compostable it is always biodegradable, but a product that is biodegradable is not always compostable. Both biodegradable and compostable products will degrade naturally without causing any harm to ecosystems. In time, they will both break down into natural fragments. However, compostable products will always break down to something that impacts ecosystems in a positive way like compost/humus, whereas biodegradable products could have a neutral effect/no effect.

There are strict requirements for the amount of time it must take a product to compost. This timeframe depends on whether the product is labelled as home compostable or industrial compostable. A product that is biodegradable could take from 1 day to 1,000 years to break down.

What is the difference the Nordic Swan Ecolabel and EU Ecolabel?
Both eco-labels have strict requirements for health, quality, and environment and look at all relevant phases of the product’s life cycle. The essential difference between the two is that the Nordic Eco-label comes from the Nordic Council of Ministers and is used primarily in the Nordic countries, whereas the EU Ecolabel was established by the European Commission and is used in the EU.

What does the EU ecolabel guarentee?
The EU Ecolabel guarantees the same as the Nordic Swan Ecolabel. It is your guarantee that a product is produced with care and consideration for the environment. The label has strict requirements for a product’s entire life cycle concerning health, quality, and environment and looks at; raw materials, product composition and waste, quality, distribution, packaging, and disposal.

What does the Nordic Swan Ecolabel stand for?
When a product is labeled with the Nordic Swan Ecolabel it is your guarantee that the product is produced with care and consideration for the environment. The label has strict requirements for a product’s entire life cycle concerning health, quality, and environment, and looks at; raw materials, product composition and waste, quality, distribution, packaging, and disposal. See more here.

What is the difference between eco-labelled and biodegradeable?
Eco-labels focus on environmental considerations and human health (skin-friendliness, dangerous substances, etc.) and do not necessarily say anything about the degradability of a product. That a product is biodegradable is not in itself a proof that a product is sustainable. Products are only proven biodegradable if they are marked with a biodegradable symbol from an official third party institution that has tested the product according to the official biodegradability standards.

Are Bambo Nature nappies biodegradable?
No, Bambo Nature nappies are not biodegradable. The nappies contain bio-based materials like fluff from wood pulp, but they also contain non-degradable plastic materials. These non-degradable materials are some of the key components of the nappy that ensure high performance, and keep your baby dry and comfortable.

What is the bio-based percentage?
The bio-based material in Bambo Nature diapers is fluff from wood pulp. Our Bambo Nature diapers always contain more than 30% bio-based material (the precise percentage varies with size).

What are the exact ingredients in the nappies?
We carefully select all raw materials and ingredients that go into the making of our nappies. We only use ingredients approved according to the Nordic Swan Ecolabel, which means that they are safe for both your baby and the environment.

I have so many baby names on my list! Any advice on choosing one, or narrowing down my choices?
Choosing a baby name can be tough: Do you go traditional or unconventional? Strongly gendered or gender-neutral family name or not? Middle name or not? Besides a quick online search (just to make sure the proposed full name doesn’t already belong, to say, an infamous historical figure), the only true test of any name is how it makes you feel. Say it out loud, write it down, and drop it in conversation with your partner…the right name will feel good on your tongue and in your heart. It’s also okay to wait until you meet your baby to decide!

I’m starting my baby registry. What are some essential tips for putting it together? What does my newborn really need?
Organising your registry can be really fun, but it can be overwhelming too. If your store has a checklist you can start with big-ticket items like furniture (cot, changing table, rocker) and gear (car seat, pushchair, playpen). If you’re unsure which brands to pick ask your other mum friends for recommendations, look up online reviews, and head to stores with floor samples so you can test different models. For instance, you may find the pushchair you had your eye on is too heavy for everyday use or won’t fold enough fit in the car. Finally, don’t forget to include everyday essentials, such as nappies and wipes, which can add up over time. Veteran mum friends may happily gift you with these practical daily necessities.

Are baby wipes safe for a newborn? What ingredients should I watch out for?
Baby wipes can certainly be safe for a newborn—but it’s important to choose the right ones. Some wipes contain chemicals, perfume, parabens, and dyes that may not be safe for newborn skin. Parabens, for instance, can mimic hormones and may disrupt development. Perfume, often simply labelled “fragrance,” can irritate sensitive skin. Your best bet: Look for eco-friendly options like Bambo Nature Wet Wipes that have a brief ingredient list and ingredients with vegetable origins (if you’re not sure, look up the company’s website for more detailed explanations of its products).

Should I baby proof our house before the baby’s born, or can I wait until he or she starts crawling?
If you have the time and energy to childproof your home before baby arrives, go for it. But realistically speaking, most parents don’t get around to it until just before their little one goes mobile. What to do: Get on your hands and knees so you can see each room from your baby’s point of view, and remove or secure any hazards they can reach. That includes hanging tablecloths, electrical cords, cords from drapes and blinds, uncovered outlets, unlocked cabinets and drawers, and houseplants.

I’m freaking out about my before-the-baby’s-born checklist! How do I get everything done?
Take three deep breaths – you’re fine! All your baby really needs once he or she arrives is a lot of love. Everything else can be bought, organized, or delegated afterwards if necessary. If you have room in your freezer, you can cook double portions and freeze for later, and most super markets now have high-quality frozen vegetables for easy, healthy meals. Speaking of which, the most important task to complete before your due date is lining up help for the first few weeks after baby’s born. That way, even if you don’t check off everything on your list, you can rely on friends and family to help with cooking, cleaning, and shopping—while you bond with your baby.

Salon blowouts: awesome, Nappy blowouts: not so much. Any advice for avoiding these?
Preventing the dreaded blowout is all about finding the right size nappy. Ones that are too tight or too loose can lead to unwanted messes. Sizing charts are based on weight, so it helps to know exactly how much your child weighs. (If you’re unsure, step on a scale while holding your baby and then solo; the difference is your child’s weight.) Some clues to incorrect sizing: blowouts from the back and fasteners that dig into baby’s sides are signs of a too-small nappy; blowouts from the sides and general sagginess are signs of a too-big nappy.

I want my baby products as chemical-free as possible, but do eco-friendly disposable nappies really work?
Absolutely. Reliable eco-friendly nappies like Bambo Nature nappies won’t sacrifice strength for safety. That means you can count on maximum protection from leakages. Performance-boosting features include a superabsorbent triple layer core, strategic barriers, and flexible side panels that accommodate even the most active baby. Bambo Nature nappies combine effectiveness with materials free of harmful chemicals, perfume, and allergens. The bottom line: Our safe, eco-friendly disposable nappies get the job done—naturally.

There are so many nappies out there. How do I choose the best one?
There is a dizzying array of nappy options! Most traditional disposable nappies are made with chemicals that can be harmful and irritating to your baby. Eco-friendly disposable nappies like Bambo Nature nappies contain no dangerous ingredients, perfume, or known allergens. (Bonus: Nappies made with safe ingredients tend to be sustainably sourced, so you’re doing the planet a favour too.) And of course, the nappies should also work. Bambo Nature uses superabsorbent materials and flexible leg openings for leakage-proof performance.

Are disposable nappies really safe for my baby?
They sure are—as long as you choose wisely. A traditional disposable nappy may contain chemical ingredients that can be harmful and irritating to your baby. That’s why it’s so important to look for a different kind of nappy: one that’s free of dangerous chemicals, perfume, and all known allergens. Bambo Nature nappies use safe, skin-friendly ingredients—so you can feel good that you’re ensuring the health and safety of your baby. Oh, and our natural materials are sustainably sourced, so you’re helping the planet too. Win-win.

Love the idea of going eco for my newborn. What should I look for in natural baby products?
Good thinking. Your baby will thank you! Eco-friendly companies like Bambo Nature use natural and sustainably sourced ingredients to help ensure the health and safety of your child and of the planet they will inherit. Read labels carefully and take a close look at brand websites to make sure products don’t include harmful chemicals, perfume, dyes, or known allergens. Another promising sign: certifications from trusted ecological and health organisations around the world. These can signify a company’s commitment to quality natural ingredients.

Is it safe to exercise while I’m pregnant?
It’s always best to check with your doctor, but if you were active before pregnancy, you’ll likely get the ok to continue your workouts—which can help both you and baby. Kegel exercises will make a world of difference both before, during and after pregnancy. Ask your doctor if you’re not sure what to do – and remember, being able to relax your pelvic muscles is as important as strengthening them. A few caveats: Avoid contact sports and activities involving balance (biking, skiing); don’t perform exercises while lying on your back after the first trimester (the weight of your growing uterus can reduce blood flow); and stop immediately if you feel dizzy or nauseous. If you suddenly feel uncomfortable doing your usual, favourite sports, it’s completely natural. Be open to trying new forms of exercise for a while. As your body recovers after giving birth, you will most likely feel like going back to your normal schedule.

What should I pack in my “go” bag for the hospital? I want to be ready!
Kudos for thinking ahead. It’s smart to pack a bag about a month before your due date including the following: a robe, nightgown, slippers, and underwear (in case you want to ditch the hospital-issued gown, socks, and undies), going-home outfits for baby and you (don’t forget a maternity bra for your newly tender breasts, and depending on how long you stay, you may still need baggy/maternity clothes to wear for some time after giving birth – tight clothes are not your friend), an extra bag (to tote free hospital samples, plus gifts from visitors), and any important paperwork. Also: Don’t forget to install a car seat.

I keep hearing about pregnant women “nesting”. What is this?
Think of a soon-to-be mama bird fluttering here and there, picking up twigs and leaves, readying her nest for her hatchlings. “Nesting” refers to similar activities done by expectant (human) mums before the baby arrives: buying newborn supplies, organising the nursery, and reading up on infant care. As your due date approaches, you’re probably already doing a lot of these things, and even if you don’t get everything 100% ready, trust that you and your baby will still be fine, and get help from family, friends, and neighbours for the rest.

I think I have pregnancy brain. Is that a real thing?
It’s definitely possible. Anecdotal evidence suggests that moms-to-be feel forgetful and spacey. Research hasn’t shown proof of cognitive deficiencies during pregnancy, but that doesn’t mean you’re making up your “mumnesia.” You’re probably busy with preparations for when the baby arrives, stressed with expectations, and short on sleep due to physical discomfort —a combo that can add up to lack of concentration and short-term memory loss for anyone. And there’s some evidence that pregnant women’s brains are changing, although not necessarily in ways that would lead to forgetfulness. A recent study found that pregnancy alters areas in the brain that relate to empathy—which may help new mums better understand their babies’ wants and needs.

I’m in my third trimester and am so uncomfortable. What can I do to feel better?
It’s definitely not easy carrying all that extra weight. Your back may be aching because your belly is pulling your spine out of alignment, squeezing your internal organs and pressing on veins and arteries. For relief, apply a heating pad or a cold pack to your lower back, or alternate between the two. A gentle massage can also help. At night, if sleep is fleeting, try a maternity pillow or strategic placement of several regular pillows (don’t forget to put one between your knees). Some women also find it more comfortable to sleep in a recliner towards the end of their pregnancies. Gentle stretching and relaxation can relieve some aches. Listen to your body, and talk to your doctor to make sure you do what’s right for you.

Allergies run in my family. Anything I can do to help prevent them in my baby?
You’ll definitely want to ask your paediatrician for personalised advice. But generally speaking, experts recommend breastfeeding for at least four to six months, which may help protect against some allergies and eczema. If nursing isn’t possible, a hypoallergenic formula may help protect a baby at high risk for allergies. If your family history includes food allergies, ask your doctor about when to introduce those foods. Finally, choose skin care products like Bambo Nature that are certified safe and don’t contain perfume or colour — this can help lower the risk of irritation to baby’s sensitive skin.

How often should I bathe my baby?
There’s no need to bathe your baby every day. Newborns don’t get too dirty (until they start moving around that is), and frequent bathing can dry out infant skin. A bath every few days is fine, as long as you clean certain areas more often. Wipe your baby’s nappy area at each change. Use a washcloth to rinse their face (especially around the mouth), neck, and hands before bedtime. When you do bathe your newborn, use a mild cleanser like Bambo Nature Hair & Body Wash, which is developed especially for babies’ sensitive skin and contains no perfume or colour.

It seems like my baby cried all the time. How do I know if it’s colic?
Although it’s distressing to hear, crying is normal because it’s the only way your newborn can communicate. It may take some trial and error to figure out what your baby is trying to tell you. Chances are, they’re saying “Feed me,” “Hold me,” “Change me,” or “Let me nap!” But if they are crying uncontrollably and nothing helps, it may be colic, which is usually diagnosed if crying persists for at least three hours a day, three days a week, for three weeks or more. No one knows what causes it, and it gradually disappears at three to four months old. Talk to your paediatrician if you’re concerned.

How can I tell if my baby has dry skin or eczema? How can I treat them?
Dry skin and eczema can be tough to tell apart, but there are some tell-tale signs. Dry skin is simply that: dry or even cracked skin that occurs mostly in winter. Eczema is an immune reaction to various triggers and include dryness, heat and sweat, and chemicals in lotions and soaps. Symptoms include patchy red, thick, itchy, and tender skin. In babies, eczema often appears on the face and scalp or in the folds of elbows and knees, and it runs in families with a history of allergies or asthma. To prevent eczema flare-ups, moisturise regularly, especially after bath time, and use skin-friendly products like Bambo Nature’s, which are eco-friendly and contain no perfume or color. See your paediatrician for more treatment options.

My baby hates nappy changes. How can I make them easier?
Your baby would probably rather be wrapped in a warm blanket or in your arms than exposed to the cold air. To make nappy changes a little more enjoyable, distraction is key. Try the following: Put up a mobile over the changing table; have a small toy ready to play with during changes; make funny faces or sing a special song while you’re changing; or tape some photos of family members on the wall near baby’s head.

How can I tell if my newborn’s getting enough breast milk or formula? How often should I feed them?
The proof is in the nappy. If your baby wets six or more nappies a day, they’re probably getting enough to eat. Weight gain is another good sign. In the first week, your baby may lose several ounces of weight, but should rebound to birth weight by the end of the second week and gain steadily after that. A well-fed baby will also appear satisfied for a few hours after a feeding. If you’re breastfeeding, you’ll want to nurse at least eight to 12 times every 24 hours. If you’re formula feeding, most babies drink about four ounces of formula per feeding by the end of the first month. Ask your paediatrician if you are concerned about your baby’s feeding routines.

My newborn’s pretty gassy. What’s the best way to burp baby after a feeding?
Newborns are notoriously gassy—not surprising since they feed around the clock. It helps to burp your baby after every two to three ounces (if you are bottle-feeding), or after switching breasts (if you are breast-feeding). There are two common burping positions: over the shoulder (hold baby upright, facing behind you) and on your lap (sit baby down, leaning forward, and use one of your hands to steady the head). Pat your baby’s back gently for a minute. You can also try massaging their belly (use gentle clockwise motions) or bicycling the legs to move the gas along.

I’ll admit: I’ve never changed a nappy in my life! What should I know about nappy changes?
Nappy duty isn’t as terrible as you think. Really. A few things to keep in mind: Before you start, gather all your supplies so you don’t leave baby unattended on the changing table. When you’re cleaning a baby girl’s nappy area, always wipe from front to back so you don’t spread bacteria. (And don’t forget to clean between those chubby thigh folds.) Use nappy cream at each change to help prevent nappy rash. Most importantly, know that practice makes perfect. Since your baby will go through up to 10 nappies a day (!), you’ll get the hang of it in no time.

It seems like all my newborn does is sleep! How much sleep does a baby need?
A lot! Your newborn can sleep up to 17 hours a day. They need all those zzz’s to support rapid growth and development. But sleep doesn’t happen all at once. Since your baby’s stomach is so tiny (about the size of her little fist), frequent feedings are inevitable the first few months. That’s why they wake several times in the middle of the night. Your baby will also take three to four naps during the day. By the time she’s four to 12 months old, your baby may be sleeping 12 to 16 hours total, including two to three naps.

I’m drowning in baby stuff! Do you have any ideas for organising all the toys, clothes, and essentials?
To avoid clutter chaos, it helps to have a place for everything. Buy baskets for small things, like socks and bibs, and place them in drawers or on shelves. For clothes, maximise space with a double closet rod and hang pairs of matching tops and bottoms together so you can grab entire outfits at once. And take advantage of bottle and nappy organisers. But designating a spot for everything is only half the battle. To truly win the war against clutter, you’ll want to spend 10 minutes daily putting stuff back where it belongs—this will help prevent the slide towards disaster.

I’m a little nervous about going out with my newborn for the first time. Any advice?
Have fun! After being cooped up at home, an outing can be enjoyable for both of you. Of course, you’ll want to be prepared. Start small, like a trip to a nearby park or shop (outside of rush-hour – there’s no need to make it harder on yourself than you have to). Pack nappies and wipes, a change of baby clothes, an extra shirt for you (just in case!), a bottle and formula (if you formula feed), and disposal bags (for dirty nappies and clothes). If you’re heading to a café or restaurant, look for ample room for pushchairs. The only safety caveat: For the first six weeks, limit close contact with strangers (so your baby’s not exposed to anyone who might be sick). And if you’re meeting friends, ask them to kindly wash their hands before holding baby.

I need sleep. Badly! What can I do to help my baby sleep more at night?
Hang in there! Newborns wake up every few hours because they have tiny stomachs and need frequent small feedings. But by the time they’re 3 to 6 months old, many babies can sleep for up to 8 hours at night. Some helpful tips: Swaddle your baby (it recreates the confinement of the snug womb); establish a bedtime routine (something as simple as bath-feeding-story can help signal that it’s time to sleep); and use a super absorbent nappy, like Bambo Nature’s nappy, to prevent overnight leakages that can wake them up.

Is my post-baby body ever going to look the same again? Be honest.
That’s a tough one to answer, because every mum is different. Some people seem to bounce back to their pre-baby bodies right away (we’re looking at you celebrities). But in real life, without the help of round-the-clock nannies, personal trainers and chefs, it’s not so easy. Your belly remains big after birth, because it takes six to eight weeks for your uterus to return to normal size. Once your body’s ready for exercise, moves that strengthen the core can help. The “pooch” can be stubborn and stick around for months, but keep in mind that it took nine months to gain the weight, so it’s perfectly reasonable to take that long—or even longer—to lose it. After all, you’ve got a baby to care for!

How do I know if my baby is wearing the right size nappy? I can’t figure it out!
Most sizing charts rely on weight, but since no two babies are alike, the process can definitely be tricky. What to do? Look for nappies that are intentionally designed to overlap on weight, like the ones from Bambo Nature. We’ve been perfecting our nappies for over 40 years, using feedback from hundreds of parents. If your baby falls between two sizes, consider the smaller size if they’re long and lean, and the larger size if they’re short and stout. If you’re still unsure about sizing, write our Customer Services team — we’re here to help!

How do I best avoid leakages?
We have been perfecting our nappies for more than 40 years to provide you with world-class leakage protection. However, for our nappies to do their magic there are three important things you need to consider: 1) how you find the right size, 2) how to ensure a snug fit, and 3) how to put the nappy on correctly.

Size:

Correct sizing is crucial in avoiding leakages. Infants differ in weight and body shape, so the sizes on our Bambo Nature nappy packaging are intended as guidelines only. If your child falls between two sizes, consider the smaller size if your child is relatively long and lean and the larger size if your child is relatively short and chubby. If you experience repeated leakages, for instance at night time, higher absorbency may be needed. Try going up a size, but make sure that the nappy is not put on too loosely. We recommend using open nappies for your child at night as these can be adjusted for a snugger fit for added night-time protection. If your child drinks a lot before bedtime or is very active in their sleep, you can also consider using nappies specifically designed for night-time protection like our Bambo Dreamy Night Pants.

Snug fit:

Open nappies:

A snug yet flexible fit that surrounds your child’s body perfectly will minimise the risk of leakages. Take care to ensure that the nappy is put on neither too tightly nor too loosely. If your child has red marks around their thighs when you change the nappy it means that you have put the nappy on too tightly.

Pull-up nappies:

Are perfect for daytime activities and easy for your child to pull up and down. The pull-up style nappies have no sticky tabs for securing them like with open nappies, meaning that it is important to find a size that provides a snug fit and absorbs enough. Use the size guide on the packaging or try different sizes to find the right fit.

Application:

Open nappies:

Before putting on the nappy, make sure that the leakage protectors inside the nappy are “standing up”. Sometimes you need to straighten these before applying the nappy. Also, check that the leg cuffs are pulled out around your child’s legs and bottom. Tip: for a boy, make sure that his penis is pointing down before closing the nappy (this goes for pull-up nappies too!). Otherwise, he might wee out of the top or the sides.

Pull-ups:

Are perfect for potty-training toddlers and can be pulled up and down like ordinary underwear. Always check that the leg cuffs are pulled out around your child’s legs and bottom.

Experienced parents know that avoiding leakages completely is virtually impossible. Most likely, you will have the occasional mishap when your child is between two sizes or if you have simply put the nappy on wrongly. But if you follow these tips, you are likely to experience fewer leakages.

What happens if my child accidentally swallows SAP?
SAP (superabsorbent polymer) is the absorbent core of the nappy and resembles gel-like beads when it soaks up liquid. SAP does not contain harmful substances and our nappies are dermatologically tested, Nordic Swan Ecolabelled, and recommended by Asthma-Allergy Nordic.

If you notice gel-like material on your baby’s skin, do not be alarmed. This is SAP that from the nappy padding and can easily be removed by wiping your baby’s skin with a soft dry cloth.

If you suspect or know that your child has swallowed SAP – even if it is only small amounts – immediately rinse your child’s mouth and always seek medical attention to have your child examined as a precaution.

The weather is very hot. How can I make my baby comfortable?
Babies cannot regulate their own body temperature the same way that adults can. A paddling pool is a great way to keep little ones cool in hot weather; place the pool in the shade and always supervise children playing in water.
Keep their bedroom cool during the day by closing the curtains or blinds. Only air out the room in the early morning or in the evening, but keep the window closed while your baby is sleeping to avoid draughts. Experts generally recommend an ideal room temperature of somewhere between 20 and 22 degrees C. It is also a good idea to keep nightwear and bedclothes to a minimum and only use natural fabrics like cotton. Watch your baby and listen to your intuition – is baby kicking off the covers at night and hot and bothered on waking? Consider using no covers and dressing baby in a nappy only. You can also run a fan in the room where your baby sleeps to circulate the air but be sure to aim the fan away from your baby, so there is no draught.
A room thermometer is a great way to keep tabs on the temperature in the room where your little one sleeps.

How do I protect my baby in the sun?
Infants under 6 months should be kept in the shade and not be exposed to direct sunlight at all. Their skin is too delicate and does not contain enough melanin yet; melanin is the pigment that gives hair and eyes their colour and provides some protection against the sun’s rays.
Older infants should also be kept out of the sun as much as possible, especially between 11am and 3pm when the sun is at its strongest. Remember to attach a sunshade of some kind to their pushchair or pram when going out, use sunhats with a wide brim to protect their head and neck against the sun, and cover exposed skin with clothing, preferably airy garments in natural fabrics like cotton.

How much sunscreen should I use?
When applying sunscreen, a common mistake is not applying enough of it. It is generally recommended to use an amount of sunscreen corresponding to a handful to cover the entire body, and this goes for both children and adults.

What is the difference between sunscreen and sun lotion, and which one should I choose for my baby?
The main difference between sunscreen and sun lotion is the texture of the product. A sunscreen is thicker and often has a higher lipid content. Sun lotion tends to have a lighter, runnier consistency.
There is no clear winner between the two, since there is no difference in the Sun Protection Factor; an SPF30 is an SPF30. However, not using enough sun protection product is usually the reason for sunburn, and it can be harder to control the exact amount applied when using sun lotion, especially runny sun lotion in a spray bottle. So, it all depends on your preference, but be sure to apply the correct amount of sunscreen or lotion (1 handful to cover the entire body), and if in doubt, use more, not less.

How do I keep my baby hydrated in warm weather?
Babies and young children can become ill when the weather is very hot. They are especially prone to heat stroke and dehydration.
Breastfeeding and bottle feeding babies from 0 to 6 months do not need any fluid other than breastmilk/formula, however, they might want to feed more than usual during hot weather. Once you have introduced your baby to solid foods, offer them water with their meals, and be prepared to offer them extra water outside mealtimes in very hot weather. However, their main source of liquid until 12 months will still be breastmilk or formula, and the general recommendation is that you should only offer babies under 12 months water or milk, not juice, as this can cause tooth decay.
For older toddlers over 12 months, it is important to keep them hydrated with water, and you can also give them fruit like watermelon, to keep their fluid levels up. To make water more appealing, try making ice cubes with their favourite fruit. These will keep the water cold and add some flavour from the fruit juice.

Should I give my baby nappy-free time when the weather is hot?
Nappy-free time is important, no matter the season, since nappy-free time helps minimise the risk of nappy rash and skin irritation in the nappy area. During most seasons, a short period of time each day, during bath-time or changing time, is enough to allow the skin to breathe. But in summer or very warm weather, your baby may sweat more than usual, especially around the waist and leg area, so nappy-free time is even more important for airing the skin.

We are going on a trip. Any tips for car travel with a baby in warm weather?
We all know how hot a car can get in summer, and babies are especially sensitive to extreme temperatures.
One of the most important things to bring in your car when travelling with baby in summer is window shades. Babies have sensitive skin, and should not be seated in direct sunlight. You can buy mesh shades with suction cups to attach to the windows, or you can bring a piece of lightweight fabric and pinch it in place at the top of the car window. The best thing is to get a UV-filtering screen or film; most car windows do not protect against all UV rays from the sun, and with their delicate and sensitive skin, babies are particularly susceptible to the harmful effects of UV rays.
Dress your child in light and airy clothes, preferably cotton, but keep their arms and legs covered to protect them against the sun. If you are worried about UV damage to your baby’s skin in the car, you can also use sunscreen on exposed areas of skin.
Take care to open the doors or windows before you get into the car to lower the temperature, and use air conditioning to achieve the ideal temperature of 20-22 degrees C in the car.
Check the temperature of car seats, seat belts, etc. before placing your baby in the car. Metal clasps and some plastic surfaces can become extremely hot in direct sunlight, and they could possibly burn your baby.
Take care to bring plenty of water and snacks, for both baby and yourself.
And finally, never leave your baby unattended in a car in hot weather. Temperatures in a parked car can rise to dangerous levels very quickly, even if it is parked in the shade.

Totally forgot how hard breastfeeding can be. Any new tips to make it a little easier?
For something so natural, breastfeeding doesn’t always come naturally, that’s for sure. If you’re having a tough time getting the proper latch or finding comfortable positions, a lactation consultant can be a huge help. Ask your paediatrician or other mum friends for a recommendation. To boost milk supply, make sure you’re well hydrated, switch breasts at each feeding, and try breast massage. Some mums also swear by eating oatmeal. If you’re pumping, looking at a photo of your baby or listening to a recording of her voice can encourage the let-down reflex.

When can my child move from a cot to a toddler bed?
Most kids switch between 18 months and three years, and it’s usually out of necessity. Your child may start climbing out of the cot (so it becomes a safety hazard to leave them in there), or another baby is due soon (so you need the cot for a younger sibling). When you do make the move, continue your usual bedtime routine and explain that your child should stay in bed until you come for them, or they have to use the bathroom (if it’s potty training time). Calmly lead your child back to bed if they leave, and repeat as necessary until the novelty of getting up fades. Be patient! Keep them safe in the meantime by removing any hazards in the room and installing a safety gate at the door and at the top of the stairs if you have any in your house.

How do I know when my baby is ready to transition from nappies to training pants?
Follow your child’s lead. It’s potty time when your child exhibits these signs of readiness: They show an interest in the bathroom, gets fussy during nappy changes, pulls at or otherwise signals a dirty nappy, and starts to stay dry for longer periods of time. If your child seems ready, you can transition from nappies to training pants before making the big switch to regular underwear. Bambo Nature Training Pants simplify potty training with a flexible, thin, and easy-to-pull-up-and-down design. Plus they’re skin-friendly and ultra-absorbent.

How do I juggle an active toddler and a newborn at the same time?
Most mums admit it’s not easy, especially at first. It helps to settle into a routine—and then accept the inevitable disruptions to said routine. Other tips: Keep both hands free by carrying baby in a front pack or sling, or put baby in a swing, rocker, or playpen. If possible, set up a toddler-proofed room where your older child can play alone safely. Or set aside a box of engrossing toys that they only play with when you need them occupied as you care for baby. (There’s no shame in DVDs or iPad videos during the short time this lasts!) Most importantly, lower the pressure on yourself. Ask for help, skip the vacuuming, order pizza, and revel in the chaos—and the sweet little moments—that make up life with two young children.

My older child has started acting out since the baby was born. How can I help her adjust to her new sibling?
It’s not easy sharing the spotlight after being an only child. Smooth the transition by setting aside one-on-one time for them. Friends who visit your newborn can also spend time with your older child (and bring a gift for them too) so they don’t feel left out. If they regress (acts like a baby, wants a bottle, has potty accidents), reassure them that they are still loved. Rather than punish them for acting out, ask them how they are feeling—and acknowledge those feelings. Give them the attention they’re seeking, and praise them when they act more grown-up. You might even play up their big sibling status and give them special jobs like grabbing clean nappies for the baby. Remind them of the fun things they can do that baby can’t enjoy yet, such as going to pre-school or playing in the park.

When should I start setting up play dates for my baby? I want them to feel comfortable socialising with other kids.
Babies don’t socialize the way older kids do, but many mums schedule play dates anyway because they enjoy the interaction with other parents. Toddlers typically engage in “parallel play,” which means they play near each other—but separately. Truly meaningful interactions can start at two years old, so that’s a good time for play dates. Keep it small and short: one or two other kids, for 60 to 90 minutes. Your child may still act selfishly, refuse to share, and play on their own. That’s totally normal but hanging out with other children helps lay the foundation for important skills like co-operation and manners. Leave the kids alone so they can learn how to play with each other, but stay close so you can step in if someone gets upset.

Potty training my first child wasn’t easy, Do you have any tips or tricks for successful potty training?
First things first: Make sure your child is ready. Once you’ve determined your child can handle potty training, it helps to offer praise and a small reward (like a sticker) for each successful trip to the potty. Avoid punishing or shaming your child for accidents. If accidents keep happening, try postponing potty training for a few more weeks, or talk to your paediatrician. In about 10% of children up to 7 years old, the bladder develops slowly and may need treatment. Give gentle but constant reminders to go to the potty after a meal or before car trips and bedtime. One super helper: Bambo Nature Training Pants, which are easy for little ones to pull up and down but are also absorbent enough to hold 31 ounces of moisture in a 24-hour period—just in case!

What’s the latest advice on when to start solid foods, how to introduce them, and what to feed?
Look for signs that your child’s ready for solids. Typically, children will start showing interest in “real” food at four to six months old and be able to sit up with some help, hold their own head steady, and swallow food from a spoon. Stick to thin purees at first, and gradually build up to thicker ones. Infant cereal used to be the standard first food, but mashed fruits and veggies like banana, avocado, and sweet potato are also great starters. Introduce one food at a time, and wait a few days in between so you can watch for any allergic reactions. And if your child turns up their nose at a certain food, try again another day—it can take up to 10 tries before they’ll try something new!

What are training pants, and how do you use them?
Training pants are a lifesaver when your child starts potty training. They’re disposable underwear that can be pulled up and down just like regular underpants but can also absorb moisture in case of accidents. They ease the transition from nappies to big-boy or big-girl underwear. For peace of mind, try Bambo Nature Training Pants, which are eco-and skin-friendly and free of harmful chemicals and known allergens. They can also hold up to 31 ounces of moisture within a 24-hour period—for worry-free protection against those inevitable accidents!