Articles in the Budget Buys Category

Back-to-School Shopping Under $50?

Walmart sent me a $50 gift card to see if I could buy a week’s worth of back-to-school outfits for under $50. I accepted the challenge and also received two gift cards to mail out to two readers. Last weekend, we drove over to our local Walmart in search of inexpensive back-to-school outfits for my preschooler. See what we found…

Vincent’s Summer collection is here! Stylish quality shoes and sandals for kids of all ages.
We first featured Vincent Shoes as part of our Flexible-Soled Shoes for Toddlers Guide and readers were gaga for Vincent’s playful, yet fashionable European styling. Vincent makes shoes for pre-walkers and toddlers up to children about age 8.
And check out their Summer Sale with up to 75% off on select Vincent styles! FREE shipping on all orders of $75 and up.
Most of their Spring collection is on sale, with some amazing deals on last year’s fall …

Babies use all of their senses to explore the world–which is exactly what you want, except when that world is a disgusting shopping cart or restaurant high chair. Did you know shopping cart handles have more germs than public restrooms? Ewww….
If you are looking for an adorable, safe, and affordable shopping cart cover to protect your baby from germs, check out the Clean Shopper.
Baby Diva took the Clean Shopper for a test drive and we are happy to report that she was snug and secure in the Clean …

Posted by Mamanista on May 30, 2007 | Comment

More in: Baby Gear, Budget Buys, Germ Protection, Seat Covers

Sure, babies are super cute, but Mom deserves some swag, too. Gliders are a wonderful way to show mom you appreciate her. Pregnant moms, nursing moms, and moms who just need a break will love a glider.
Newborns are soothed by rocking and many babies nurse better with a little motion. Gliders are also a serene retreat for the adults in the family.
Baby Diva and I relax in the Storkcraft Hoop Glider & Ottoman in Cherry with Beige Cushions from MiniTots (pictured) or Shop.com for just $169.95. I love …

You can never have enough baby bodysuits and Baby Diva loves herself some fun and funky onesies.
Usually they cost quite a bit and come as presents from her hip aunt or her fashionable Fairy Godmom and assorted other friends, like Mama-to-Be. I almost feel guilty putting them on her–I quickly snap a picture in case Baby Diva decides to destroy the thing on its first run out of the gate.
If only there were some cheap, amusing options for those days when baby is a spit-up fountain…Oh, wait, look! Here …

Posted by Mamanista on Apr 27, 2007 | Comment

More in: Baby Fashion, Budget Buys

Shopping carts are icky. They have germs and hard, metal edges. No wonder kids love to ride in them–because it drives mama nuts. (short trip for Mama Luxe)
Same goes double for those restaurant high chairs.
Luckily, some innovative folks have come up with seat covers. You have a ton of options out there but you want to make sure that your choice actually covers the entire surface and keeps baby comfy and safe. These will also work on restaurant high chairs, but the reverse is not true: do not buy a …

Posted by Mamanista on Apr 25, 2007 | 3 Comments

More in: Baby Gear, Budget Buys, Germ Protection, Momma Gotta Have, Safety, Seat Covers, Shower Gifts

Maybe you’ve been juggling your baby and toddler on the grocery line and looked enviously on as another mother moved freely and gracefully, baby wrapped closely to her body. Or perhaps you’ve seen the celebrities carrying their babies, safely scurrying away from the Paparazzi. Possibly you’ve even done your research and know that mothers in almost every traditional culture have carried their babies–benefiting from the convenience, bonding, and security that comes with baby wearing.

Most of the hottest slings are going to run you over $75, many are over $100. Are …

Posted by Mamanista on Apr 22, 2007 | Comment

More in: Attachment Parenting, Baby Carriers, Budget Buys, Slings, Wraps

I am an obsessive comparison shopper. I research size, weight, price, convenience, style, and features–locating the best deals for you!
In this case, I was looking for a light weight playard that could hold my ever-growing giant baby…but what if your baby, or your apartment, is smaller and you want a compact playard? What if you want a full-featured playard that matches your decor? What if you are on a budget and what you really want is the cheapest (but still safe) option?
Mamanista has you covered. Below are my picks for …

Posted by Mamanista on Apr 17, 2007 | Comment

More in: Beds, Budget Buys, Momma Gotta Have, Playards, Registry Pick

My Future’s So Bright, I Gotta Wear Shades!
This summer, protect kiddo’s baby blues with a pair of ultra-cool sunglasses.
Baby shades are not just adorable–they also make make good sense. Young eyes are especially vulnerable to damage from UV Rays. If you have a young baby or even a toddler who just won’t keep those shades on, try a pair with a strap. And while you are shopping for shades, don’t forget a sunhat!
Parker G’s are a great choice for style, comfort, and safety. **Please see the update at …

Posted by Mamanista on Apr 16, 2007 | One Comment

More in: Accessories (Children), Baby Fashion, Budget Buys, Hip Find, Safety, Summer, Sunglasses