We know first-hand how overwhelming it can be to choose the best products for your baby. Which is why the 2016 Mother & Baby awards, sponsored by Babies “R” Us, seek to make it easier, helping Aussie mums find the best buys for their bubs.
Now in their fifth year, the awards highlight the best products in the baby care industry, from nappies and wipes, to big ticket items such as cots, cars and family holidays.
The Mother & Baby award rosette signals that a product has been given the tick of approval from the experts and other mums. Now comes your involvement. We’re calling on you to help and vote on some of our most popular product categories.
Click through the gallery and vote on your favourites now.
Brought to you by Babies “R” Us
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR PRODUCT FOR MUM
Philips AVENT Combined Steamer & Blender
Developed in co-operation with a paediatric dietician, the Philips AVENT Combined Steamer & Blender, $219.95, makes moving to solids a breeze. A fast and convenient way to prepare healthy, homemade baby meals without the hassle: simply steam fruit, vegetables, fish or meat then flip, blend and serve without having to transfer food.
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR PRODUCT FOR MUM
Babies R Us Mini Maternity Pillow & Wedge Set
The Babies R Us Mini Maternity Pillow & Wedge Set, $49.99, has everything you need for a comfortable night’s sleep during pregnancy. The long, curved pillow shape promises leg, tummy, back and hip support during pregnancy, while the wedge provides added back support. Both the pillow and cover are machine washable, too.
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR PRODUCT FOR MUM
Bio-Oil
Bio-Oil, from $14.99, is a specialist skincare oil that helps improve the appearance of scars, stretch marks and uneven skin tone. It’s also effective for ageing and dehydrated skin. Bio-Oil’s formulation is a combination of plant extracts and vitamins suspended in an oil base. It contains the breakthrough ingredient PurCellin Oil, which changes the overall consistency, making it light and non-greasy.
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR PRODUCT FOR MUM
Milestone Baby Cards
The set that started it all! The Milestone Baby Cards, $29.95, are 30 photo cards that you can use to capture your baby’s first year in weeks, months and memorable moments. Add a card to your baby pictures and you will never forget when your little one slept through the night, rolled over or said mama for the first time.
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR PRODUCT FOR MUM
SRC Recovery Shorts
Recommended by health care professions, SRC Recovery Shorts, $189.95, help speed up your post-baby recovery, reduce pain and increase pelvic and back support. The anatomical panels provide consistent gentle medical grade compression to C-section or perineal wound areas, while the lightweight breathable fabric provides superior comfort.
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR PRODUCT FOR BABY OR NURSERY
FESS Little Noses
FESS Little Noses, $12.95, is a non-medicated saline solution that provides relief of dry or blocked noses. It helps clear the nasal passages, providing gentle relief so your baby can breathe easier, naturally. FESS Little Noses is non-medicated and can be used as often as required so that feeding and sleeping are not disrupted by a blocked nose.
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR PRODUCT FOR BABY OR NURSERY
Thermos Foogo Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Food Jar
An extension of the 110-year-old genuine Thermos brand, the Foogo range focuses on infant feeding for busy mums and bubs at home or on the go. The Thermos Foogo Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Food Jar, $29.99, features technology which keeps food at the right temperature and inhibits bacteria growth. This food jar can keep food warm for up to five hours and cold for up to seven hours. It’s BPA-free and the jar is cool to the touch with hot foods and sweat-proof with cold. It also comes with a five year warranty.
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR PRODUCT FOR BABY OR NURSERY
Gro Groegg
Health professionals recommend that the temperature of the baby’s sleeping environment should ideally be between 16 to 20 degrees. The Groegg, $49.95, has been designed to give parents a simple way to determine the temperature in their baby’s nursery by giving them a digital display of the temperature. Alternatively you can see from across the room as the Gro-egg glows different colours depending on the room temperature. The subtle, soothing glow also doubles as the perfect night light.
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR PRODUCT FOR BABY OR NURSERY
Tommee Tippee Sangenic
Sangenic, $50, is an innovative nappy disposal system that offers anti-bacterial protection from germs and odours, individually sealing each nappy away in seconds. The tub holds up to 28 nappies, conveniently storing nappies for fewer trips to the bin. The system is easy to set up, use and easy so you can spend less time changing and more time with baby.
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR PRODUCT FOR BABY OR NURSERY
Fly Babee Sleep-Easy Sun Cover
Fly Babee, $99.95 is the world’s first multi-purpose sleep and sun cover for all strollers and prams. It also covers airline bassinets to help your baby sleep when flying. It’s 100% breathable, providing a safe environment for your baby when out and about and on the move. The unique dome shape allows for amazing cross-flow ventilation making it an essential item for getting out and about every day with your baby. A must-have for flying and travel.
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR FAMILY CAR
Mercedes-Benz GLC 220 d
The new mid-sized SUV from Mercedes-Benz features state-of-the-art driver assistance systems, great fuel efficiency and the new 9G-TRONIC transmission as standard. The entry-level model to the range has 19″ Wheels, 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive, KEYLESS-START, EASY-PACK (power) Tailgate, LED Intelligent Light System, Garmin MAP PILOT navigation with the innovative touchpad, Electric Front Seats and a 360 degree camera. The new GLC’s rear seat features a 40/20/40 split and offers a cargo position which increases the load capacity by locking the backrests at a steeper angle.
Mercedes-Benz GLC 220 d, from $64,500
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR FAMILY CAR
Kia Sorento SLi Petrol
With seating for seven, the Sorento offers plenty of room for family and friends. It has a five-star ANCAP safety rating and all models come with ABS (anti-lock brake system), ESC (electronic stability control), BAS (brake assist), VSM (vehicle stability management), HAC (hill start assist), ESS (emergency stop signal), rear view camera, front and rear parking sensors and tyre pressure monitoring. There are six airbags, including front-to-rear curtain coverage. All Kia vehicles also come with an industry leading 7-Year warranty, 7-Year capped price service program and 7-Year roadside assist.
Kia Sorento SLi Petrol, from $45,990
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR FAMILY CAR
BMW X1
Designed by an Australian, the all-new X1 was launched in Oct 2015. Newly-designed interior with significantly improved space and variability, combined with the latest update of the premium ambience for which the brand is renowned. The perfect family vehicle at entry level price for a premium brand.
BMW X1, from $51,600
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR FAMILY CAR
Ford Kuga Titanium
The Ford Kuga is a compact SUV designed and built by Ford. Offering the latest in smart and fuel-saving technology, the Ford Kuga is ideal for any growing family. The top of the range titanium features hands-free power tailgate, active park assist and a panorama roof. MSRPs: 2.0L Petrol AWD Automatic.
Ford Kuga Titanium, from $45,190
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR FAMILY CAR
Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium
The Subaru Outback will have you riding high with its smart technology, state-of-the-art infotainment and new soft-touch interior trim. There’s room for the entire family and enough storage for all your gear. The Outback 2.5i Premium also comes with EyeSight driver assist technology as standard. This system monitors the road ahead using three-dimensional images captured by cameras at the top of the windscreen. The outback was recently tested in 2015 and received a 5 star ANCAP safety rating.
Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium, from $41,490 (MLP)
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR BABYMOON DESTINATION
Jamala Wildlife Lodge
Located at the National Zoo and Aquarium in Canberra, Jamala Wildlife Lodge, from $1,000, is Canberra’s first all-inclusive luxury accommodation experience. The lodge boasts 5-star African-styled accommodation hubs that are specifically designed to provide guests with a unique and interactive experience with some of the zoo’s most amazing residents. (Tarrifs include unique accommodation and dining.)
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR BABYMOON DESTINATION
The Byron at Byron Resort and Spa
Set in the Bryon Hinterland rainforest, The Byron at Byron Resort Babymoon Package, from $1,208, includes three nights’ accommodation, full buffet breakfast daily, spa treatments for mum-to-be and dad-to-be and complimentary in-house movie, yoga, WiFi and a babymoon gift hamper.
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR BABYMOON DESTINATION
Hamilton Island Beach Club
The five star Hamilton Island Beach Club, from $680 per night, is described as an adults-only oasis. This tranquil, boutique resort sits right on Catseye Beach overlooking the Coral Sea. With its spectacular beachfront location, private restaurant and lounge, child-free ambience and personalised service, the Beach Club Hamilton Island is the ultimate couples’ getaway for a babymoon.
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR BABYMOON DESTINATION
Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains
Indulge in a relaxing escape before your bundle of joy arrives. Take some time out to recharge and connect with tranquil surroundings and spectacular mountain views. The perfect haven for soon-to-be parents needing a little ‘us’ time. Fairmont Resort Babymoon Package, from $599.50, includes three nights’ accommodation, full buffet breakfast daily, spa treatment for mum-to-be and dad-to-be, $100 dining credit, high tea, babymoon gift pack and a complimentary in-room movie each night.
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR BABYMOON DESTINATION
Bells at Killcare Boutique Hotel
The Bells at Killcare Babymoon Package, from $890, is the ultimate indulgence for expectant parents. The package includes overnight accommodation, one VIP restaurant reservation inclusive of dinner (your choice of three courses from the à la carte menu), one 60-minute signature Kodo massage for both expectant parents (pregnancy specific for mum-to-be) and a beautiful LaGaia Baby Gift Pack to take home. A full, hot breakfast is also included to top off your gastronomic culinary adventure!
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR FAMILY HOLIDAY DESTINATION
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR FAMILY HOLIDAY DESTINATION
NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Park
Located on the NSW Central Coast, NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Park caters for all budgets with campsites and luxury family cabins available. Facilities include a kid’s waterpark, swimming pool with dedicated toddler zone, jumping pillows, go karts and a kids club with daily activities during peak holiday times. A new heated pool will also be added by August.
NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Park, prices vary due to season
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR FAMILY HOLIDAY DESTINATION
BIG4 Bellarine Holiday Park
Located just 90 minutes from Melbourne on the Bellarine Penninsula, there is plenty to keep the kids entertained at BIG 4 Bellarine including an all-year round heated pool, water play park and jumping pillows. Accommodation options include stylish units and cabins or enormous campsites for tents and caravans.
BIG4 Bellarine Holiday Park, prices vary due to season
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR FAMILY HOLIDAY DESTINATION
Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa
The Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa is a family-friendly resort that caters perfectly to their needs. Family rooms come complete with child-friendly design, Sony PlayStations and are close to the children’s pool, water slide and kids club, while restaurants and activities speak to all ages. Kid’s Club is also available so mum and dad can have a break while the little ones play.
Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa, from $322 per night
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR FAMILY HOLIDAY DESTINATION
Mowbray Park Farm Holidays
Mowbray Park caters for all manners of families with multiple heritage lodges with ensuite family rooms or stand-alone lodges for larger family gatherings and groups. Tariff includes meals and daily supervised activities including pony/horse rides, mountain biking and animal nursery.
Mowbray Park Farm Holidays, from $20-$188
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR MATERNITY BRAND
Jeanswest Maternity
Jeanswest Maternity offers mums-to-be stylish, on-trend and comfortable options for their wardrobe during their pregnancy. From the perfect pair of jeans with practical and comfortable elastic waist (in various styles and colours), to tops, dresses and seam-free basics, Jeanswest Maternity is the one-stop shop and style solution for every expectant mother.
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR MATERNITY BRAND
Mamaway Maternity Work Pants
Get comfortable and embrace your pregnant body with the Mamaway Maternity Work Pants, $109.95. Featuring Mamaway’s signature belly hugging, back supporting waist band, they have a slight flare and will ensure you look smart, but remain comfortable .
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR MATERNITY BRAND
Queen Bee Maternity Trimester Dress
A gorgeous floral dress to take you through pregnancy, this versatile number can also be worn during nursing. Just unclip the snap buttons to breastfeed discreetly. The Queen Bee Maternity Trimester Dress, $99.95, also makes the perfect party dress for your baby shower.
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR MATERNITY BRAND
Ripe Embrace Nursing Top
Ripe’s Embrace Nursing Tops are the building blocks to your new maternity and nursing wardrobe. Available in tanks, short sleeve tees and long sleeve tops, all styles feature easy and discreet nursing access offered through the crossover design. Bonus: there’s a great array of colour options, too.
Ripe Long-Sleeved Nursing Top, $74.95
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR MATERNITY BRAND
Sussan Long Sleeve Maternity Dress
Stylish yet comfortable, this Long Sleeve Maternity Dress, $99.95, is a must-have for your wardrobe. You can dress it up or down and the dress is also perfect for layering.
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR MATERNITY BRA
Medela Ultra Stretch Nursing Bra
The Medela Ultra Stretch, $36.95, is the ideal seamless nursing bra to wear during the early stages of nursing and day-to-day. Created in a stretchy, seam-free fabric, this nursing bra provides a smooth contour making it perfect to wear under a T-shirt. The wire-free design offers mums superior comfort.
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR MATERNITY BRA
Triumph Gorgeous Mama Lace
Enjoy fantastic support and unbeatable comfort with this pretty, supportive bra. Featuring a side sling and drop down cup for feeding, plus a padded under-bust in soft micro-feel fabric for comfort, the Gorgeous Mama Lace Bra, $59.95, is available in nude or black and in sizes 10B – 16E.
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR MATERNITY BRA
Modibodi Breastfeeding Bra-Singlet
Modibodi, $69.50, is a revolution in breastfeeding bras/tops. The bra combines stylish designs with superior fabrics for a great feel and our hi-tech protection prevents the need for nursing pads. The Modifier Technology protection is inbuilt into the bra cups and milk leaks through to an absorbent layer, so mum stays dry. It’s also antimicrobial to eliminate any bacteria or odour, which allows the garment to be worn for a number of days without washing.
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR MATERNITY BRA
Hotmilk Sports Nursing Bra Collection
The ultimate support, the Hotmilk Sports Nursing Bra, $79.90, allows you to continue exercising during pregnancy and nursing. It features wide, comfortable sports elastic under the bust to anchor the bra to the body, padded front straps for comfort and a flexible underwire for support and shaping. Its breathable panels make for a cooler workout and the cotton-blend lining of the cups provides added comfort during exercise.
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR MATERNITY BRA
Mamaway Second Skin Seamless Maternity & Nursing Bra
This soft, elegant, lace-embroidered maternity and breastfeeding bra with nylon-coated wires makes for a more comfortable fit without any digging. Designed to be comfortable while providing you with full shape and support, Mamaway Second Skin Seamless Maternity & Nursing Bra, $69.95, is an ideal everyday maternity bra. It offers many of the features of a traditional underwired bra while being perfectly safe and comfortable to wear during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It also comes with back extensions for additional growth space.
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR KIDS’ FASHION BRAND
Plum
Beautifully designed, high quality fashion for babies and toddlers that is still affordable for Australian mums. Plum is a family business that has been designing and manufacturing children’s products for three generations. A percentage of Plum sales supports SIDS and Kids Safe Sleeping educational campaign.
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR KIDS’ FASHION BRAND
Bobo Choses
Born in 2008 with the idea of creating a clothing brand that could capture the magical, passionate look and language of children, each Bobo Choses collection tells a story that is published as a children’s book, making clothes special and meaningful. Hand-illustrated prints feature throughout the range, with carefully selected colours and fabrics in comfortable shapes. Available at Big Dreams.
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR KIDS’ FASHION BRAND
Minti
Designed in Melbourne, Minti brings a dose of cool to kids’ clothing with original hand-drawn artwork featuring on many of their designs. The company’s ethos is “What would we wear it if we were small?” Impressive.
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR KIDS’ FASHION BRAND
Target
Well-known and much-loved, Target‘s strategy remains to present great quality children’s clothing at low prices every day. Fit, durability, washability and safety aspects are important and product developments like zip guards, adjustable waists, extra buttons and knitwear that can be thrown in the washing machine are at the heart of what it means to be a Target product.
CATEGORY: MOST POPULAR KIDS’ FASHION BRAND
Cotton On KIDS
Cotton On KIDS is a much-loved brand with both Aussie kids and parents, offering the latest styles that allow even the littlest personalities to sparkle. Bringing the famous KIDS twist and a touch of quirk with each new season, the brand’s on-trend and age-appropriate collections include apparel, dress ups, accessories, sleep, swim, gifting, bedroom linen and accessories. Everything
