The top products of 2011
It was a good year to be a baby (or a parent!). Here’s some of our favorite gear launched in the last 365 days.
1. Chicco KeyFit Caddy $100
This lightweight, flat-folding, car seat-compatible stroller frame is just the ticket when it comes to taking a wee one
out and about. Transfer baby from car to pram by releasing the car seat from its base and simply clicking it into the
stroller. As for the diaper bag, extra blanket and shopping bags? Stash them in the roomy, easy-access storage basket below.
Read our parent tester's review of the KeyFit Caddy
2. Angelcare AC1100 Video, Movement & Sound Baby Monitor $300
For ultimate peace of mind, look no further than this full-service surveillance system. The high-tech monitor allows parents to hear and see their baby from another room via an LCD touch screen parent unit, and the under-mattress sensor pad detects baby’s slightest movements, sounding an alarm when stillness creates cause for concern.
Read a parent tester's review of the AC1100 Video, Movement & Sound Baby Monitor
3. Boppy EntertainMe Play Gym $75
Colorful but not obnoxious, cute but not precious, engaging but not overstimulating … This plush pad entails everything a play mat should and looks good doing it. The perfect place to relax and play, the tot spot includes 10 developmentally appropriate toys and a mini Boppy pillow for tummy time.
Read a parent tester's review of the EntertainMe Play Gym
4. Baby Jogger POD $500 (conversion kits sold separately)
This three-in-one baby-mover is a dream come true for fitness-minded moms and dads. The versatile chassis can be transformed from stroller to jogger to bike trailer in a jiffy via no-tools-required conversion kits. When not in use, Baby Jogger’s patented Quick-Fold Technology allows the multitasker to collapse in a single step.
Read a parent tester's review of the POD
5. Maxi-Cosi Pria 70 Air $250
Boasting the innovative TinyFit system, this sleek convertible car seat safely accommodates precious cargo between 4 and 70 pounds. The removable infant insert provides a snug ride for even the teeniest babes and permits a space-saving rear-facing installation for the benefit of long-legged front seat passengers.
Read a parent tester's review of the Pria 70 Air
6. ERGObaby Organic Carrier by Petunia Pickle Bottom $160
Babywearers love ERGObaby carriers—they’re well made, easy to use and ergonomically accommodating
of both mom and baby. And now, thanks to a new partnership with ever-sophisticated Petunia Pickle Bottom, they’re also gorgeous. Breathe a sigh of relief, style-conscious moms: Function and fashion are no longer mutually exclusive.
Read a parent tester's review of the ERGObaby Organic Carrier
7. Kidco GoPod $50
Whether a clan lives in close quarters, travels regularly, or tailgates weekly throughout football season, they’ll find a friend in this portable activity seat. Complete with drink and snack holders and five toy loops, the lightweight, durable seat adjusts to four height positions and folds compactly into a convenient storage bag.
Read a parent tester's review of the GoPod
8. mountain buggy duet $600
As any parent who has ever tried to navigate a side-by-side stroller through a doorway can attest, bigger isn’t always better. The same width as a single pram, this double buggy passes the maneuverability test with flying colors. Extra features—an adjustable handle bar, full, independent seat reclines, and the ability to stand when folded—are icing on the cake.
Read a parent tester's review of the duet
9. Ty Lucas Amore Tote $345
Pretty on the outside, tough on the inside, this high-end diaper bag features a canvas and leather exterior and vibrant green Agion interior (which provides antimicrobial protection). Hidden stroller straps, a roomy changing pad, and a wealth of organization-encouraging pockets keep this bag’s promise of effortless style.
Read a parent tester's review of the Amore Tote
10. phil&teds lobster $80
So long, crusty restaurant highchairs. Bye-bye, bulky kitchen eyesores. Welcome this flat-packing chair to the family and clamp it to the side of virtually any table—whether at home or out on the town—for instant baby-friendly eating accommodations. A removable tray, five-point harness, and handy carry bag are all part of the package.
Read a parent tester's review of the lobster
