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The best pack-and-play mattresses so your baby sleeps comfortably during travels

Replacement pack-and- play mattresses can make all of the difference in the quality of sleep your child gets. Be sure to buy one that fits your specific needs.

When searching for a pack-and-play mattress, be sure to choose one that is developmentally appropriate. Infants need to sleep on firm mattresses, for instance. Toddlers can use thicker, softer mattresses. This guide gives you a number of pack-and- play mattress options for both age groups.

hiccapop Pack n Play Mattress Pad With Firm & Soft Sides

Best Dual-Sided

The hiccapop Pack n Play Mattress Pad With Firm & Soft Sides is unique in that it is double-sided. The firm side is perfect for infants, while the soft side is more appropriate for toddlers. The softer side features high-density memory foam for ultimate comfort. This mattress’s cover is jacquard knit. It folds into thirds for simple storage and is 2.25 inches thick when unfolded.

NapYou Pack n Play Mattress

Best Overall

NapYou’s Pack n Play Mattress comes with a convenient carrying bag. It folds up into thirds to fit into the bag. This pack-and-play mattress has a lining made of organic cotton and polyester. The mattress itself is memory foam. It also works as a sleeping mat on the ground for older children.

Dream On Me 3-Inch Playard Mattress

Best Organic

The Dream On Me 3-Inch Playard Mattress is intended for ages 6 months and up. It is made mostly of foam but is 10% vinyl. It includes a waterproof cover. This mattress has a 30-day warranty. It is antibacterial and flame-retardant.

Pack-and-play mattresses are a comfy place for babies to sleep. Whether plush or firm, your child is sure to appreciate the upgrade from the regular mattress they were sleeping on.

NewFolks Contributor
NewFolks Contributor
What is a baby sprinkle (and how to plan a great one)
Why you should at least have a baby sprinkle even if you already have a child
Cake for a baby shower.

We all know the standard pregnancy celebrations. We've seen gender reveal photoshoots all over social media and have been invited or know someone who has gone to at least one baby shower. But what about when someone is having a second baby? Or is having the first girl after two back-to-back boys? Well, that's where having a baby sprinkle comes in handy. Whether it's been a few years since the last little one or you're having one of the opposite gender and only need a few items, here's why a baby sprinkle is the perfect way to welcome this new addition.
What is a baby sprinkle?

If you don't know anything about pregnancy parties, think of it in scientific terms. What is a shower versus a sprinkle when it rains? Not as much water for one as the other, right? Take that and apply it to a baby shower versus a baby sprinkle. Think of a baby sprinkle as that grocery trip where you only need the fillers, and you're not restocking the whole kitchen.
If you already have a baby
If you are parents to one child (or two or three), you probably have most of the stuff you need from the last child. But if there were items you wish you would have grabbed for the first one or you have a list of needs for this next baby, a sprinkle is the perfect forum to get those goods.
If it's been a few years since you've had a baby
Even if you already have a child, maybe this next one is a few years further away than you wanted or planned. A baby sprinkle is the best way to get those items you may have donated, lost, or broke with the first kiddo.
If you have only one gender but find out you are having the other
Have all boys? You will want a sprinkle to get some girl items. Have only girls? You might use a sprinkle to get at least one item that isn't pink. Not that certain colors are meant for boys or girls, but maybe you had a Minnie Mouse-themed nursery, and you'd like your first boy to have a new theme for their nursery.
Let's sprinkle the details
A baby sprinkle isn't going to be exactly like your baby shower. It's more of a low-key event, should be less stressful, and is less formal.

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How much water should a 1-year-old drink? What you need to know
Here's how to keep your little human hydrated
Toddler drinking glass of water

The transition from baby food to solid food is an exciting one for parents and their children. Once your child has fully transitioned to eating solid foods, they must also drink enough liquids to balance their diet. Milk is likely still a huge part of your child's daily diet, and they are most likely drinking it more than water. Although milk is important for toddlers to drink to help with the development of their bones and teeth, they must also drink water. If you're wondering how much water should a 1-year-old drink, here's what you need to know.
How much water your child should drink

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), 1-year-olds should drink 1 to 4 cups (8 to 32 ounces) of water per day and 2 to 3 cups (16 to 24 ounces) per day of whole milk.

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Glass vs. plastic baby bottles: Here’s what doctors have to say
How to choose the best bottle for your little one
A cluster of different baby bottles in a bowl.

Having a baby can be overwhelming, especially for first-time parents. It means making endless decisions about day-to-day activities and how they can impact the baby's safety. Even something as simple as choosing the type of bottle to use becomes an important decision. Glass vs. plastic baby bottles: Which is a healthier choice?

A baby's bottle is a vital purchase, and it's certainly worth exploring all the factors when it comes to glass or plastic baby bottles for health, convenience, and cost concerns. There are trade-offs to consider with each. So, here's what parents need to know when it comes to glass vs. plastic baby bottles.
The scoop on plastic baby bottles
With all the concerns around chemicals in plastics, it's natural for parents to wonder if anything from a plastic baby bottle might find its way into their baby's milk.

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