Category: BLOG

Welcome to our Blog! here you will find lots of information on how to keep your family safe at home, as well as tips on getting the most out of your nanny cams, home security cameras and baby monitors.

Easter Holiday Home Security Tips

Easter Holiday Home Security Tips

 

Home security tips for the Easter Holidays

If you have added on a few extra days to the Easter weekend, you could be looking at a week or more of pure bliss! Packing up the family for the holidays and heading to the beach, country or anywhere that takes your fancy is a treat that we all deserve at some time or another. 

The problem is that one burglary takes place every 20 seconds and more than 4500 burglaries occur every day in the United States, making home security an essential component of preparing for your holidays.

So here are a few home security tips to keep your home safe from opportunistic burglars who can see that your home is vacant for the holidays.

 

Home security checklist

Windows and doors: Make sure that all the doors and windows to your home are locked securely to deter thieves, this includes windows on the second floor. Also, ensure that the internal door between the garage and your home is securely locked and don’t leave the key where it can be located easily. This is one of those home security tips that you should implement, whether you are on holiday or not!

Install light timers: These are ideal for switching on and off lights, radio stations and TVs, so that from all appearances, it looks as if there is someone at home. When burglars realise that someone is at home, they might be less likely to break in, particularly if they are looking for an easy job.

 

home security tips

 

External sensor lights: These are ideal for the driveway and the back porch area, but also for the front door – if it’s not covered by the driveway sensor. When a bright light blazes on thieves who approach your garage or external doors during the night, it’s enough to make them leave and go elsewhere. Sensor lights are a great home security tip that will work for you 365 days of the year, not just when you go on holiday.

Turn off water: Make sure to turn off the mains water to the house, otherwise there will be no-one to notice if one of your pipes bursts and your home floods. You can turn off isolation taps throughput your home, but that doesn’t help if a pipe external to your home bursts. So always turn off your home’s main water supply, just to be on the safe side.

Secure your vehicles: If you leave a vehicle at home when you go away for the Easter holidays, always lock it up and hide the keys. This could be a family car, caravan, RV or motorbike – don’t make it easy for thieves. As an additional home security tip, you could turn off the power to the automatic garage doors, making it even more difficult for burglars to enter your home.

Lock external buildings: If you have a garden shed that contains equipment or tools, even a second building that is used as a home office, den or retreat, the same home security tips apply – keep them locked and add external sensors as appropriate. 

 

Home security tips

 

Photograph valuables: Computers, jewellery, artwork, pushbikes, TVs and DVDs, even antique furniture – all of these and any other valuables should be photographed and engraved for future identification. It’s not nice to think that your home could be burgled, but if the worst does happen, make sure that you can identify your valuables.

Hold the mail: Always make sure when you go on holiday that you either hold the mail or ask a friendly and trustworthy neighbour to collect your mail. Mail that collects in your mailbox is a dead giveaway to burglars that the home is empty, as is a collection of junk mail or newspapers on the driveway. 

Install security cameras: If you can’t afford a back to base home security system where security personal attend your home if an alarm sounds, our best home security tip is to install a few wireless cameras throughout your home. These can be internal and external cameras that save any recordings of activity to the cloud, alert you if there is movement and which you can check anytime using your smartphone.

Half a dozen spy cameras may set you back $100 a piece for the basic models, but all you need is a camera that records and alerts you to intruders when you are on holiday. Nanny cams are the perfect choice for home security, because they can serve both purposes – keeping an eye on your family at home and your home when you are away.

These few home security tips should keep your property safe while you take your family away for their Easter holiday break.


 

Do Home Security Cameras Really Deter Thieves?

Top 10 Best Smart Home Gadgets

 

Out-Think Burglars: Best Hiding Spots For Valuables at Home

Out-Think Burglars - Best hiding spots for valuables at home

 

Create the Best Hiding Spots For Valuables in Your Home

If you have ever been burglarised at home, you will not only know how bad it feels – that someone has violated your home, but you will also know how easy it is for burglars to find your valuables.

This is why it’s essential to find the best hiding spots for valuables in your home and out-think the burglars!

Let’s take a look at all the obvious places where most of us hide our valuables at home, because these are the first places that burglars will look. Then we can explore some of the better spots to hide your valuables – where burglars have little chance of discovering them!

 

Places You Shouldn’t Hide Your Valuables at Home

Hiding your valuables in obvious spots isn’t going to do much good, especially when these are some of the first places a burglar will look!

Check out these two great articles below and find out all the hiding spots you should avoid.

 

10 Hiding Spots Burglars Always Look First

Readers Digest - 10 Hiding Spots Burglars Always Look First

One of the worst places to hide your valuables at home is in the master bedroom, because this is where most people keep their jewellery, weapons and extra cash.

For heavens sake – don’t hide anything you want to keep safe under the mattress as this is the oldest trick in the book! Other unsafe hiding spots are in your dresser drawers and your bedroom closet.

Check out the Reader’s Digest blog  ‘10 Hiding Spots Burglars Always Look First‘ for more hiding places to avoid and keep your valuables safe.

 

Top 10 Worst Places to Hide Valuables

To 10 worst places to hide valuables

 

How about the toilet tank? Have you ever thought about hiding your valuables there? Well, it’s not a very good idea because burglars watch movies as well and they have seen how many times people have lost items saved in toilet tanks to thieves!

Forget the freezer as well, because this is another popular hiding spot in the movies! Check out ‘Top 10 Worst Places to Hide Valuables‘ on Cammy and make sure you avoid them like the plague!

Now you know where NOT to hide your valuables – where should you hide them to keep them safe from burglars?

 

Best Hiding Spots for Valuables

What you are looking for is somewhere to hide your valuables that is so well hidden that no-one will ever find it or the hiding spot is so good that it won’t be among the first places a burglar investigates.

Unless you have found the absolute perfect hiding place for your valuables, it’s more likely that given enough time a burglar will ferret out your valuables eventually. 

So at the very least, you want to make it so difficult and time consuming to find your valuables, that the burglar gives up as he/she becomes concerned that the longer they are in your home, the greater the chance they will be discovered.

 

20 Secret Hiding Places

Family Handyman - 20 Secret Hiding Places

 

From hollowed out books to old vacuum cleaners and air grilles, the Family Handyman has a great list of hiding spots for valuables – many you might never even have considered.

 

13 Sneaky Hiding Spots for Valuables

 

billfish-security -13 Sneaky Hiding Spots

Some of the sneaky hiding spots for your valuables listed by Billfish Security include hiding them in the dry dog food bin, behind cabinet toe kicks and even amongst feminine hygiene products!

The take home message here is that hiding your valuables in such unexpected areas means that a burglar has to think outside the box and if they want to be in and out fast – they will only look in the obvious hiding spots.

 

Hiding Valuables Discreetly

Detective Kevin Coffey - Hiding your valuables discreetly

Straight from the horses mouth – Detective Kevin Coffey suggests hiding your valuable items in composite rocks that have an enclosed space and a latch that can be opened and closed, behind ceiling light fixtures and inside tennis balls (just make a slit and hide small valuables inside). He also has other ideas, so check out his article and prevent a burglar from stealing your valuables!

 

10 Best Places to Hide Valuables in Your Home

nachi.org - The 10 Best Places to Hide Valuables in Your Home

The folks at nachi.org have come up with their own list of great places to hide your valuable items at home – from inside hollowed out VHS tapes (one for the oldies!) to false containers in the pantry and under the sink or behind a false power outlet in the wall.

 

17 Secret Hiding Places For Your Valuables

 

17-secret-hiding-places-for-your-valuables- Urban Survival

At Urban Survivalists, these guys should know a thing or two about keeping your valuables safe from burglars!  Their ideas include drilling a hole in the top of a door that’s large enough to hold a plastic container filled with small items, removing the trim and board under the sink cabinet to hide your valuables or even inside a curtain rod! 

 

60 Places to Hide Valuables in your Home

 

livesafely.org - 60 Places to Hide Valuables in your home

This article by Live Safely includes a host of places to hide your valuables in your home from paint or creosote cans to fake drainpipes, bicycle pumps and cinder blocks! You shouldn’t have any problem finding somewhere safe to store your valuables with this huge selection of options!

 

What Makes Your Home an Easy Target?

fashionbeans.com - Burglars Reveal What Makes Certain People Easy Targets

 

The team at fashionbeans.com have found out makes your home a sure bet by finding out what makes your home an easy target for burglars.

The top reason why your home is robbed is because it’s empty during the day. The burglar had either been watching your house for a few days to determine your daily routine or they have simply taken a chance and knocked on your door.

The second most common reason your home is burgled is because you leave your doors or windows unlocked, making it an easy target for thieves. Check out their article to find out what other ways burglars decide to target your home and make sure that you put preventative measures in place ASAP to keep your belongings safe.

 

Keep your Valuables Safe at Home

 

 


 

Do Home Security Cameras Really Deter Thieves?

 

Top 10 Hidden Camera Videos and Spy Cams

 

Top 10 home security tips for your vacation

 

 

 

 

The Best Space Saving Nursing Chairs for Small Nurseries

The Best Space Saving Nursing Chairs for Small Nurseries

 

What Space Saving Nursing Chairs are Parents Buying?

Whenever you read a web page that tells you the best products to buy – do you ever wonder if anyone actually buys them? Maybe the researcher didn’t get it correct and people don’t agree with the website’s best picks?

Well, that’s what we have been wondering ever since we published ‘Top 10 Narrowest Nursery Gliders for Small Spaces‘ in September 2016.

So we thought we would go back through our records and collect together the most popular space saving nursing chairs for small nurseries that our readers actually purchased!

Check out the table below and the short descriptions further down this post (these are the nursing chairs our readers actually purchased in order of preference!) and find out whether our readers agreed with our best picks!

 

 PROSCONS 
Windsor Glider & Ottoman

Windsor Glider and Ottoman
- 25.8 inches wide
- 13 colours & patterns
- Generous seating
- Padded seat & arms
- Gliding motion
- Spot cleaning only
- Not machine washable
- Max weight 200 lbs
- Requires assembly
MORE INFO
DaVinci Olive Swivel Glider

DaVinci Olive Upholstered Swivel Nursery Glider - light grey
- 29 inches wide
- 3 different colours
- High back
- 360 degree swivel
- Max weight 300 lbs
- No assembly
- Spot cleaning only
- Not machine washable
MORE INFO
Dutailier Sleigh Glider Recliner

Dutailier space saving nursing chair
- 27 inches wide
- 3 different colours
- Gliding motion
- Recliner
- Made in Canada
- Max weight 250 lbs
- Adjustable backrest
- Sealed ball bearings
- Stop-lock mechanism
- Requires assemblyMORE INFO
Baby Relax Mikayla Recliner

Baby Relax Nursery Glider and Ottoman - space saving nursery chairs
- 26.6 inches wide
- 4 different colours
- Easy to assemble
- Swivels & Reclines
- Glides
- Enclosed ball bearings
- Spot cleaning only
- Not machine washable
- Max weight 225 lbs
MORE INFO
Stork Craft Custom Hoop

Stork Craft Custom Hoop Nursery Glider and Ottoman - Space saving nursery chairs
- 24.8 inches wide
- Multiple colours
- Multiple patterns
- Gliding motion
- Max weight 250 lbs
- Easy to assemble
- Enclosed ball bearings

- Spot cleaning only
- Not machine washable
MORE INFO
Babyletto Madison Swivel Glider

Babyletto Madison Swivel Glider - space saving nursery chairs
- 21 inches wide
- 3 different colours
- 360 degree swivel
- Max weight 300 lbs
- No assembly
- Spot cleaning only
- Not machine washable
- Low back
MORE INFO
Babyletto Kiwi Electronic Recliner and Swivel Glider

Babyletto Kiwi Electronic Recliner and Swivel Glider with USB Port
- 28.8 inches wide
- USB Charging Port
- Electronic recliner
- Lowers headrest
- Raises footrest
- Swivels 270 degrees
- Glides back and forth
- Available in two colours
- Max weight 300 lbs
- Easy to assemble
- Spot cleaning only
- Not machine washable
MORE INFO

 

 

1. Windsor Glider and Ottoman

 

Windsor Glider and Ottoman - narrowest nursery gliders

 

The Windsor Glider and Ottoman was hands-down, the most popular of the space saving nursing chairs from our previous list. With a generous size seat, padded cushions & armrests and a width of just 25.80 inches, this slim nursing glider has a solid wood frame for extra stability. 

The upholstery is available in a range of different colours and patterns, including grey, green and navy chevrons, beige upholstery with black, cherry or espresso timber, and plenty of other modern and traditional combinations.

However, whilst this is the most popular space saving nursing chair purchased, we noticed that after around 3 months of use many parents complained that the chair creaks, cracks or just breaks. They tend to blame these problems on its cheaper price (currently selling at just under $150.00), vowing to spend more money next time!

The vast majority of parents however, find that this spcesaving rocking chair is wonderfully comfortable, solid and quiet to use. 

 

2. DaVinci Olive Swivel Nursery Chair

 

DaVinci Olive Swivel Glider

 

The second most popular space saving nursing chair is the DaVinci Olive Swivel Glider that comes with a bonus ottoman. This upholstered swivel glider (360 degree swivel) has a 29″ width, a maximum weight capacity of 300 lbs,  a high back with a lumber pillow and is available in cream, light or dark grey.

Just about the only negative feedback from parents is that the back seems rather high for short people, other than that problem, everyone finds the DaVinci nursing chair comfortable and great value (currently selling for around $280.00).

 

3. Dutailier Sleigh Glider Recliner Nursery Chair

 

Dutailier Sleigh Nursery Glider

 

The Dutailier Sleigh Glider Recliner is another of our small upholstered nursery chairs that are popular with parents. With a maximum width of 27 inches, it’s one of the narrowest and most space saving nursing chairs on the market making it perfect for small nurseries.

It is also available in three different colours (dark or light grey and light beige) with thick padded arms & cushions and the cushion covers are machine washable.

Handcrafted in Canada and made with a hardwood frame, the Dutailier is a sturdy rocking chair for small nurseries, but it does require some assembly. 

Any negative feedback concerns the narrowness of the seat, which has taken some parents by surprise! A few have found that the nursing chair was damaged during transit. Generally however, parents find that this narrow rocking chair is wonderfully comfortable and well worth the higher price (it currently sells for just under $500).

 

4. Baby Relax Mikayla Gliding Recliner Nursery Chair

Baby Relax Nursery Glider and Ottoman

 

At just a tiny 26.6 inches wide, the Baby Relax Mikayla Recliner is not quite the the smallest space saving nursery chair on our original list. It is available in four colours (beige, grey linen, grey microfiber and mocha microfiber) and has an elegant trim feature and button tufting on the back rest.

This nursing chair both swivels and glides and it also reclines as well. 

 Some parents have found that this chair becomes quite squeaky or creaky with long term use and shorter parents have found problems righting the chair once it is reclined. Generally, however, most parents find that this small nursing chair is really comfortable and great value for the price (currently selling at just under $300).

 

5. Stork Craft Custom Hoop Glider Nursery Chair

 

Stork Craft Custom Hoop Nursery Glider and Ottoman - Space saving nursery chairs

 

The Stork Craft Custom Hoop Nursery Chair is an outlier that wasn’t on our original list. Since the seat cushion is a teeny-tiny 18 inches in width, it isn’t suited to everyone, but the external width of 24.8 inches makes it a great space saving nursery chair for small nurseries.

It is available in lots of different colours and patterns and comes with a gliding ottoman as well. Whilst most parents find that this is a really comfortable nursing chair, some have found that it starts to squeak at around three months and looks decidedly worse for wear after a year.

One of the best features of this space saving nursery chair is that it is easy to assemble and another is its sturdy design and upright back (perfect for anyone with a sore back). This slim nursing chair is also at a great price point – currently selling at less than $150.

 

6. Babyletto Madison Swivel Glider Nursery Chair

Babyletto Madison Swivel Glider

 

The Babyletto Madison Swivel Glider is another left field choice by parents, but there is method in their madness! It appears that parents have chosen this swivel glider for their nursery because they want to be able to re-purpose it elsewhere in their home. Some of course, have bought it for their study or guest rooms and not for their nursery, but many have wanted a small nursery chair that doesn’t take up too much space and have decided that the Babyletto is perfect for them.

Available in three colours (Ecru, mocha and slate), the Babyletto is made from water-resistant and stain-resistant micro-suede material with a metal base. It swivels 360 degrees and has a maximum capacity of 300 lbs and the width of the seat is a small 21 inches.

Some parents have found that after about a year of use this nursery chair tends to make a clicking noise and the mechanism breaks underneath the chair. The majority however, love how elegant it looks, as well as being comfortable when nursing and the fact that it doesn’t take up much room in the nursery.

Currently selling for just under $200, parents say that it’s great value for money.

 

7. Babyletto Kiwi Electronic Recliner & Swivel Glider Nursery Chair – with USB Port

 

Babyletto Kiwi Electronic Recliner and Swivel Glider with USB Port

 

The Babyletto Kiwi Electronic Recliner & Swivel Glider is another space saving nursery chair that came out of left field. It’s width is 28.8 inches, so it’s not the slimmest nursery chair, but this traditional style chair takes relaxation to a whole new level!

With hidden electronic buttons, you can recline the back and headrest and lift the footrest up, so that you can find the best position possible to feed your baby. No wonder this is one of the most popular small upholstered nursing chairs with our readers! 

One negative is that even though it has a USB charging port, there is nowhere to rest your smartphone when it’s charging. However this doesn’t seem to be a big problem, because the majority of customers love this nursing chair – it doesn’t take up much space, supports your head and lumber spine and it’s a piece of cake to assemble.

At just under $600, it is expensive, but if you want an electronic slim line nursing chair, this is the most popular one with our readers.

 


 

Top 10 NARROWEST Nursery Gliders for Small Spaces

 

Buying Guides: Space Saving Nursing Chairs for Small Nurseries

 

 

Nursery Checklist – New Baby Essentials Buying Guide

Nursery Checklist - New Baby Essential Buying List

 

Nursery Checklist – New Baby Essentials Buying Guide

This nursery checklist is ideal for new parents expecting their first baby or for experienced parents who need to update a nursery for a new addition to their family.

With so many baby products on the market these days it can be difficult to know what you really need for your nursery and where you should spend your money.

If you are on a budget, this guide will come in really handy, because we list all the essential items you need in your new nursery, as well as a few luxuries that you might want to splurge your budget on.

 

Union 3-in-1 Convertible Crib

Union 3-in-1 Convertible Crib - Nursery Checklist

 

The first item in our nursery checklist is this 3-in-1 convertible crib, which is very well priced and comes in seven different colours, so you can match the colour of your crib to your design of the nursery: grey, emerald, espresso, sunshine, lagoon, white and natural.

It meets ASTM international and US CPSC safety standards, and is non-toxic with a lead and phthalate safe finish. This cot is very sturdy, because it’s made from New Zealand pine wood and with it’s smooth and clean lines it will make an elegant addition to your nursery.

One of the best features of this cot is that it converts a daybed and a toddler bed, so you won’t need to purchase another bed until your little one has well and truly grown big!

You do have to buy both the conversion kit and the mattress separately, but the conversion kit will help you to save money in the long run, and most mums want to buy a premium mattress for their baby’s cot.

 

Windsor Nursery Glider and Ottoman

Windsor Glider and ottoman - nursery checklist

Every nursery needs a beautiful and comfortable nursery glider for feeding and cuddling your new baby and this glider by Windsor is well-priced, comes in 13 different colours and is one of the narrowest gliders on the market.

This nursery glider is very easy to assemble and even though it’s narrow (so it fits easily into your nursery), it still has a generous seating area with padded arm rests and side pockets.

The upholstery is 100% polyester and the cushions can be removed for easy spot cleaning. It has a solid timber frame and enclosed metal bearing for a really smooth and quiet glide; a perfect addition to your nursery checklist.

 

Infant Optics DXR-8 Video Baby Monitor

DXR-8 Infant Optics Baby Monitor

 

When you leave your baby in the nursery during the day or at night, a baby monitor stops you worrying! The Infant Optics DXR-8 Video Baby Monitor is one of the most popular on the market and has lots of great features.

For example, it has remote pan & tilt & digital zoom, a large 3.5″ full colour LCD display, retractable antenna, night time vision, two-way communication, ambient temperature alert, sound activation and you can purchase a wide angle lens as well.

With a long 10 hour battery life on power saving mode (6 hours with the screen operating) and a long 700 ft range, and the ability to add four more cameras to your network, the DX-8 is a very worthwhile investment.

 

Crib Sheet Set

Crib Sheet Set - nursery checklist

This soft 100% high quality Jesrey Knit Cotton Crib Sheet Set from Ely’s & Co are another popular item that sells well at the moment.

They are available in grey (shown above), blue and black and you can also purchase a bassinet cover, changing pad cover and a playard to match. I have also found a pink set sold by Ziggy Baby.

Depending on your colour scheme, you can use any of these sheet sets for your baby’s crib, regardless of gender.

They fit most standard crib mattresses and toddler bed mattresses (52″ x 28″ x 9″) and the bottom sheet is secured with a doubly reinforced elastic strip for additional security and durability. They are machine washable.

 

Changing Table

 

Delta Children infant Changing Table with Pad - nursery checklist

 

 

The Delta Children Infant Changing Table is available in grey, dark chocolate, black, white or espresso cherry and is a safe and secure spot to change your baby with everything to hand (it meets all government and ASTM safety standards).

You do have to assemble this yourself, but it’s fairly easy and it’s full size is 35″ in width x 19.75″ in depth x 39.25″ in height, so it should fit nicely into your nursery.

The wide open shelving (10″ clearance) makes it easy to stack your nappies and baby clothes, sheets and blankets, as well as adding a few baskets for toiletries, baby wipes etc.

A changing pad is included and you even have a safety rail on all four sides – very important to prevent your little one falling off! A changing table is a really worthwhile investment and deserves its place in our nursery checklist.

 

Cotton Washcloths

AmazonBasics Cotton Washcloths

 

These extra-absorbent 100% looped-terry Cotton Washcloths are available in white, grey, ice blue, lavender, petal pink, seafoam green and a mix of colours.

You can purchase a pack of 24 or 60 (12″ x 12″) and they are soft enough to use on your baby, as well as for your own needs. They have reinforced edging for increased durability and are both machine washable and safe in the dryer.

 

Super Soft Muslin Cotton Baby Bath Towels

 

Super Soft Muslin Cotton Baby Bath Towels

Your new baby deserves to have super soft towels for their delicate skin and these Super Soft Muslin Cotton Baby Bath Towels tick all the boxes.

These towels are made from medical grade natural antibacterial cotton and are super absorbent and super soft on your baby’s skin. They are also breathable, hypo-allergic, contain no chemicals and won’t irritate your baby’s delicate skin.

Easy to machine wash and pop in the dryer and large enough to wrap your baby comfortably ( 43″ x 45″). You can use them as a towel after their bath or even as a swaddle or blanket.

You can purchase one, two or three in a pack and they are very affordable!

 

Steel Odor Locking Diaper Pail

 

Steel Odor Locking Diaper Pail - nursery checklist

This bagless Steel Odor Locking Diaper Pail doesn’t require refills or inserts, saving a substantial amount of money over the next few years. It’s actually an award-winning diaper pail winning nine different awards!

One of its best features is that it keeps all of the smells inside the steel container, even though you do get a whiff when you open it to deposit another used nappy (cloth and disposables). This diaper pail has a sliding slow close lid and is the perfect size to fit into your nursery (it can hold up to 50 diapers).

It has a childproof lock, so little fingers can’t dig into your diaper pail and it even comes in a huge range of colours: grey, hot pink, ivory, light blue, light pink, mint green, orange, pink hearts, navy blue, purple, red, black & white clouds, black & white triangles, grey chevrons, robin’s egg blue and pistachio green.

 

Baby Wet Wipes Warmer

hiccapop Wipe Warmer and Baby Wet Wipes Dispenser - nursery checklist

 

As anyone who has used a wet wipe can attest – they are cold! This is the reason why the hiccapop Wipe Warmer and Baby Wet Wipes Dispenser is so popular, because your baby won’t have to be startled by a cold, wet wiper during changing time. 

Your wet wipes are guaranteed to stay nice and moist (it has a silicone seal), even though they will be nicely warmed – a boon for fussy babies, especially at night.

It comes with an in-built changing light, so you don’t need to put on bright lights at night and you can see how many wipes are left by looking through the front viewing window. 

This universal warmer fits all brands of continuous feed baby wipes and is a ‘must-have’ on your nursery checklist. 

 

Owlet Smart Sock 2 Baby Monitor

 

Owlet Smart Sock 2 Baby Monitor - nursery checklist

 

This is not a necessary item on your nursery checklist, it’s more of a luxury item for most parents. The Owlet Smart Sock 2 Baby Monitor allows you to monitor your baby’s heart rate and oxygen levels, even when you are not in the room with them.

So if you think that this might be something that would make you worry less – then put it on your shopping list. 

All you need to do is to download the free iOS or Android app onto your smart phone. The  Smart Sock is connected to a base station that receives your baby’s real-time heart rate and oxygen levels via Bluetooth and glows green if everything is OK and red if there is a problem. 

You can monitor these levels via your smartphone, so you can be downstairs while your baby is upstairs in the nursery. The Smart Sock can also be up to 100ft away from the base station and it will still operate via Bluetooth.

The oxygen and heart rates are factory preset, so you can’t change them, but they were set by a team of specialists, so you shouldn’t have any problems.

You receive three Smart Socks with every purchase and it can be popped into the washing machine, but you need to remove the sensor first. Finally, the Smart Sock fits most babies up to 18 months of age or 25 pounds.

 


 

 

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Top 10 Hidden Camera Videos and Spy Cams

Top 10 Hidden Camera Videos and Spy Cams

 

My Top 10 Hidden Camera Videos and Spy Cams 2019

Times have certainly changed, because a few years ago the cost of buying hidden camera videos and spy cams for your home or business was extremely expensive. Now however, with new technology making the manufacturing costs cheaper, the prices have dropped significantly making hidden cams now within the range of just about everyone.

It is also a lot easier to install these hidden cameras than it used to be, particualrly with WIFI hidden cams and you can access the videos of many models using your smartphone.

This brings us to my Top 10 hidden camera videos and spy cams, which can all be purchased online for less than $100.

If you are in a hurry to find the best spy cam for your home or business, you can shoot straight through to my top pick here:

 

 

Top 10 best hidden camsNo-one is going to spot this hidden cam, even if it is positioned right out in the open.

It comes with 1080p HD images and supports a 128G Memory Card. What’s even better is that it is a working USB wall charger, which makes it perfect for offices and home studies.

You can even use it as a wall charger when it has served its purpose as a hidden cam, so you won’t have wasted your money at some time in the future!

 

My Top 10 hidden camera videos and spy cams

I have selected my Top 10 hidden cams based on price, ease of installation and ease of use, as well as customer satisfaction. So all of my Top 10 have good online reviews from purchasers and you don’t need a PhD to install and use them!

 

  1. FREDI Hidden Charger Adapter.
  2. Conbrov T11 Mini Covert Spy Cam.
  3. Conbrov T16 Tiny Spy Camera.
  4. Bush Baby 6-outlet wall charger.
  5. UYIKOO Wall Clock Hidden Camera DVR.
  6. Smoke Detector Covert Camera.
  7. AC Adapter Hidden Camera.
  8. LIght Bulb Hidden Camera.
  9. WIFI Hidden Plant Camera.
  10. Mini Clock Radio Hidden Spy Camera.

 

You can compare all of these hidden cams in my table here.

 

 


 

My Top 10 hidden camera videos and spy cams

 

1. FREDI Hidden Camera Charger Adapter 

FREDI Hidden Camera Charger Adapter

This is an easy to use pinhole camera that is also a working USB wall adapter for iphone and android phones, as well as other USB driven devices.

You have live streaming colour videos with audio and save the videos to a 125G memory card (not supplied). The angle of view is not bad for such a small camera (75 degrees) and it loop records, so that it doesn’t just stop recording when your memory card is full. Motion detection helps to save the space on your memory card and you are sent a notification if motion has been detected.

The only potential negative is the brand name on the side of the hidden cam, which might tip some knowledgeable people off about its real purpose, but you can easily paint over it with black plastic paint or cover it with duct tape (good old duct tape!).

 

2. Conbrov T11 Mini Covert Spy Cam

Conbrov T11 720p Mini Spy Hidden Camera and Video RecorderThis 720p hidden camera is the world’s smallest DVR video camera with 180 degree vertically rotatable lens and a 120 degree wide angle lens.

It has night vision (up to 25 feet) and is motion activated. Captured video is 1 minute in length, but to view any captured video you need to slot the SD card into a PC, as it is NOT WiFi capable. 

You can also turn off the audio recording (important is many states) and it loop records on a 32G micro SD card (not included). This hidden cam is operated by a rechargable battery, but you can attach an external battery for longer continuous recording (normally up to 4 hours continuous recording on battery).

 

3. Conbrov T16 Tiny Spy Camera

Conbrov T16 720P Mini Spy Cam - Hidden CameraThis tiny spy cam is definitely worth a look, because it has lots of features and is very versatile.

You can pin it to your clothes and wear it as you walk around the office, stand it on a shelf or table, even attach it to a metallic surface using the magnetic bracket.

It has night vision (up to 15 feet), 720p HD video and a 75 degree field of view. You can set it to continuous recording or manually record videos, and it records audio as well as video. This tiny spy cam uses loop recording on a 32G micro SD card, however the videos must be viewed on your PC, as it does not support WiFi.

 

 

4. Bush Baby 6-outlet wall charger

Bush Baby Hidden Wall Outlet Adapter - blackThis 6-outlet Bush Baby wall charger is one of the best hidden camera videos and spy cams on the market. It is just so versatile!

Attach it to the wall and everyone can use it to charge their equipment and appliances, and it even has two USB charging ports as well. No-one will ever know that it is also a hidden spy camera as well.

This hidden camera operates via WIFI to your mobile devices and supports a 64G micro SD card, storing up to two day’s worth of continuous or motion detection recordings. You receive alerts via email or the phone app. 

 

5. UYIKOO Wall Clock Hidden Camera DVR

UYIKOO 1080P WiFi Wall Clock Camera IP DVRAs far as hidden camera videos and spy cams go, this wall clock by UYIKOO is one of my favourites. It looks just like a wall clock and functions perfectly as a clock, but it also has a tiny pinhole camera on its face recording everything that goes on in the room. 

No-one will ever know that this is a spy camera!

Since this hidden camera operates over WiFi, you receive alert notifications of any motion in the room and with a 90 degree field of view, you can point the camera so that you can see the most important parts of the room.

Perfect for at home or in the office, you can watch the live streaming videos on your smartphone and even zoom in using the app. It runs off a rechargeable battery and is easy to setup and to use.

 

 

6. Smoke Detector Covert Camera 

Xtremelife Smoke Detector Camera - motion detector cameraThis smoke detector by KJB Security is not an actual working smoke detector, it just looks like one, but it is simply a hidden camera. Since it looks so much like a real smoke detector, no-one will realise that it is secretly recording the room, which is the whole purpose of installing it in the first place!

It does not operate over WiFi, so you will not receive alert notifications, but it will record any motion in the room and you can save up to 19 hours of video to a 64G SD card. One of its great features is that it has heat detection as well as motion detection, so a blowing curtain won’t create an alert – saving the rechargeable battery.

It also has IR night time vision, a wide 140 degree field of view and is easy to install on the ceiling. If you are in the market for well priced hidden camera videos and spy cams, then this one ticks all the boxes.

 

 

7. AC Adapter Hidden Camera

AC Adapter - Hidden Spy CamThis AC Adapter is another great option for a hidden camera at home or in the office. It doesn’t actually function as an AC adapter, but it looks just like one!

It operates over WIFI, so you receive alert notifications when it picks up motion, but even if it isn’t hooked up to WIFI, it still works – you just need to check the SD card, because you won’t receive notifications on your phone.

The built-n DVR records colour videos and you you can set it to continuous or motion detected loop recordings. With an 80 degree field of view and night vision, this is a great little hidden cam at an affordable price point. 

 

 

8. Light Bulb Hidden Camera

Camera Bulb VR Panoramic Hidden Camera with 360 Degree Fisheye LensWho knew that a light bulb could be a hidden camera?

This functioning bulb has a massive 360 degree panoramic view, so you will see everything in the room. It has 960p HD night vision video and audio recordings, as well as two way communication, so you can talk to people in the room!

With five different viewing modes, an SD card slot, and alert notifications on your phone, this is one of the best hidden camera videos and spy cams on the market. 

 

9. WIFI Hidden Plant Camera

Wi-Fi Plant Camera - secret video recorderThis is another great hidden camera that no-one would realise is actually a secret camera! It looks just like a plant, which most of us have at home or in the office. So it’s easy to position somewhere in plain sight, but where you can covertly monitor what is happening in the room.

It needs to be hooked up to the internet via WIFI and sends you alert notifications if motion is detected in the room. You can save all video to an SD card, as well as view live footage on your smart phone. The big problem with this hidden camera is that it is fairly expensive, but if you want a security camera that is totally secret, this might be the one for your home or business.

 

 

10. Mini Clock Radio Hidden Spy Camera

Mini Clock Radio - Hidden Nanny Cam with AudioIf you are in the market for a new clock radio and a hidden security camera, then this little item might be just what you need.

It’s a fully functional clock radio that also has a hidden camera with IR night time vision and loop recording.

It doesn’t need WIFI to operate, instead saving all the video to an SD card. Operating on both mains power and batteries, you don’t have to worry about a power cut and you will never miss anything that happens in the room. This is one of the best hidden camera videos and spy cams on the market and is at a very good price point as well.

 


 

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Read More Hidden Camera Reviews Here.

 

What is a Retractable Baby Gate and Do You Need One?

 

Retractable Baby Gate

 

What is a retractable baby gate?

A retractable baby gate is a baby gate that retracts against the wall when not in use. The more usual baby gates remain in place when you aren’t using them and can become frustrating when you have to keep opening and closing them to move around your home.

A retractable baby gate is perfect for parents who don’t need a baby gate all the time, maybe just to keep their toddlers out of specific rooms when they are in use – such as the laundry, study or workshop.

They are also ideal for grandparents who need a baby gate when the grand-kids visit, but would prefer to have it stowed away when they have gone home with their parents.

You can also use a retractable baby gate when you have a litter of puppies to keep them confined to one room and prevent them from racing all over your home! It also gives your dog a rest from her pups as well!

Let’s take a look at some of the most popular retractable baby gates on the market and see what customers think about them.

 


Retract-A-Gate

 

Retract-A-Gate - retractable baby gate

 

This retractable baby gate has been certified by JPMA to be used at the top and bottom of stairs. This is a huge bonus with the Retract-A-Gate, because not many  baby gates are able to be used at the top of the stairs – most are designed to be installed at the bottom of the stairway.

Scratch resistant mesh material

One hand open and closing mechanism

Tough, washable, see through fabric

Childproof lock to prevent little fingers opening the gate

Available in white, cafe and black mesh

Available in 52″ and 72″ widths

Height of mesh is 34″

Easy and quick installation – screwed to the wall (not pressure mounted)

Made in the USA

Currently selling for less than $140

 

Retract-A-Gate - retractable baby gate

 

Check Price on Amazon

 

Retract-A-Gate - best retractable baby and pet gate

 


Evenflow Expansion Retractable Swing Baby Gate

 

Evenflo Expansion Swing Wide Gate

 

Whilst the Evenflow Baby Gate isn’t fully retractable, it does expand and retract as you open and close it – opening up the walkway and not restricting your access when it isn’t in use. This rustic baby gate is ideal for doorways, hallways and the bottom of stairs (it’s not suitable for the top of stairways).

It comes with a telescoping safety rail that prevents pinching of little fingers and the gate swings open in both directions and easily retracts. 

Made from plastic and wood

Width: 24″ to 60″

Height 32″

Easy installation

Opens, closes and retracts with one hand

Child resistant lock

 

Evenflo Expansion Swing Wide Gate

 

Check Price on Amazon

 

Evenflo Expansion Swing Wide Gate - retractable baby gate


Little Llama Indoor/Outdoor Retractable Baby Gate

 

Little Llama Retractable Indoor - Outdoor Retractable Baby Gate

The Little Llama retractable baby gate fits hallways,doorways or the bottom of stairways up to 54″ in width. At 34″, this is a fairly tall baby gate that is easy to install and use.

The opening and closing mechanism is a dial situated at the top of the gate that needs to be turned in a clockwise movement to unlock the baby gate. This makes it difficult for little ones to reach this dial and open the gate.

Fully retractable, the Little Llama rolls back around its supporting post and takes up hardly any room against the wall. You can even purchase additional mounting brackets for different areas inside or outside your home – removing the gate from one set of mounting brackets and refitting it to another set quite easily. This saves you from having to buy multiple baby gates for your home. 

This lightweight baby gate is fully retractable and its sleek, modern look suits most decors.

Complies with ASTM F1004-13 Safety Standards

Made from tough, weather resistant, woven mesh

Height: 34″

Width: 54″

Easy installation

Child resistant lock

Fully retractable

Screw mounted

Currently selling for less than $70

 

Check Price on Amazon

 

Little Llama Retractable Indoor - Outdoor Retractable Baby Gate

 


Perma Child Safety – Outdoor Retractable Baby Gate

 

Perma Child Safety - Outdoor Retractable Gate

 

This retractable baby gate is just about identical to the Little Llama above, except that it is much wider – which is why we have included it in our list. Able to span widths up to 71″ wide and at 33″ high, this is a baby gate that can be used in standard or unconventionally sized doorways, hallways, decks, patios and at the bottom of stairwells.

This fully retractable baby gate is perfect for confining toddlers and dogs in specific areas of your home – indoors or outdoors. It is easy to install and use, all you need to do is push the down on the dial and turn the it clockwise (located at the top of the gate) to lock or unlock the gate.

Made from tough and durable weather resistant mesh

Fully retractable

Complies with ASTM F1004-13 Safety Standards

Height: 33″

Width: 71″

Dual action child safe locking mechanism

Easy grip handle

Mounted using screws

Currently selling for less than $55

 

Check Price on Amazon

 


Summer Infant Retractable Baby Gate

 

Summer Infant Retractable Baby Gate

 

This stylishly designed baby gate by Summer Infant can be used at the top of the stairs, between rooms or in hallways to keep your toddlers safe and your puppies out of trouble! 

It fits openings up to 50″ wide and is 30″ tall, giving you plenty of scope for different size spaces. If you have a baseboard that is in the way, this product also comes with a special baseboard kit for easy installation.

It has a simple locking lever that is pushed down to lock the gate in position and lifted up to unlock the gate.

Fully retractable baby gate

30″ high and 50″ wide

Simple locking lever

Comes with a baseboard kit

Screw mounting

Silver post design

Tough, durable & decorative patterned mesh

Currently selling for around $80

 

Check Price on Amazon

 

Summer Infant Retractable Baby Gate

 

 


 

Best Baby Gates with a Pet Door

 

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Baby Gates for Stairs with Banisters

he Stair Barrier - baby gates for stairs with banisters

Looking for the best baby gates for stairs with banisters?

When you have a new baby or toddler, one of the most important parts of your life is to keep them safe in the home. We all know that you can’t be everywhere and you don’t have eyes in the back of your head, but there are some things you can do to keep your little ones safe at home.

Installing one or more baby gates for stairs with banisters will ensure that your young children don’t take a tumble and injure themselves on the stairs. Baby gates for stairs  however, aren’t always easy to locate, because most of the baby gates are pressure mounted, and you want something more secure when stairs are involved. 

So the baby gate for stairs that we have selected is for the bottom of the stairs only, but it is available in two widths and lots of great patterns.

The Stair Barrier meets the General and Performance Requirements of ASTM F1004, Standard Consumer Safety Specification for Expansion Gates and Expandable Enclosures.

 

The Stair Barrier - baby gates for stairs with banisters

32″ in height.

Regular width: 36″ to 42″.

Wide width: 43″ to 52″.

Easy to install and assemble.

Strap and buckle installation.

Installs on any angle.

Rolls to the side when not in use.

Internal support stop the barrier being lifted up or pushed down.

Works with any banister – volute, fluted or square.

Range of plain and patterned fabrics.

Indoor and outdoor – weather resistant.

Made in the USA.

Check Price on Amazon

 

The Stair Barrier - baby gates for stairs with banisters

 

What’s so good about the Stair Barrier?

If you need a baby gate for stairs in your home, then the Stair Barrier is affordable, stylish and versatile. You can use it to keep your little ones away from the stairs and prevent the dogs racing up and down stairs as well.

It is specifically designed to be used at the bottom of the stairs, not the top, and at 32″ tall is one of the tallest baby gates on the market. It’s also available in two different widths – regular (36″ to 42″) and wide (43″ to 52″) fitting, so it should fit most stairways in and around your home.

 

The Stair Barrier - baby gates for stairs with banisters

 

Another great feature of these baby gates for stairs is that they don’t become an obstruction when you don’t need to use them. For example, many grandparents install baby gates in their home for when the grandkids visit. In between visits however, these baby gates can be a pain, because you have to keep opening and closing the baby gate all the time as you move through your home.

The Stair Barrier on the other hand, can just be rolled away against the wall when not in use and gives everyone a clear passage through your home. Yet another great feature of these baby gates for stairs with banisters – is that it’s weather resistant, so it’s good for indoors and outdoors.

This means that you can install one of these baby gates for stairs as the bottom of your external stairs to stop the dog coming up on the veranda with muddy paws all the time!

 

The Stair Barrier - baby gates for stairs with banisters - Dogs

 

Inside each of these baby gates is a rigid internal webbing made from heavy duty polypropylene, which stops anyone from pulling up or down on the gate and dislodging it. The material also comes in a range of colours and patterns, so you should be able to match your decor quite easily.

Last, the Stair Barrier is lightweight and can easily be taken with you when you are staying over at friends or relatives homes, as well as in holiday homes.

 

The Stair Barrier - baby gates for stairs with banisters - Dogs

 

For around $120 this is one of the more expensive baby gates, but when you want a quality product that works well, sometimes it’s worth a little extra!

Check Reviews on Amazon

 


 

Best Baby Gates with a Pet Door

 

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Best Baby Gates With Pet Doors – Keeping Babies & Pets Safe

Best Baby Gates with Pet Doors

 

Are you looking for affordable baby gates with pet doors?

One of the essential pieces of equipment you need when you have a young child or toddler is a baby gate to keep them safely away from danger in your home. Often parents install a baby gate at the top of stairs or at the entryway to the kitchen or the internal door to the garage to keep their little ones out of these areas unless they are supervised.

You can also install a baby gate to keep your infants safely in specific areas with you, so that they don’t wander around the house and get into trouble. Things get a little complicated when you have a pet however, because pets usually have the free run of your home.

Baby Gates and Pet doorsThen along comes a baby and now your pets have a number of baby gates that act as obstacles as they navigate through your home. More often than not a larger dog will just jump over these baby gates, which can give your little ones the same idea! 

At some point your kids might try to scale the baby gate and follow your pet to freedom, resulting in banged heads and even worse injuries. The solution is to install a baby gate with a cat door or a small pet door, so that everyone is happy!

Obviously, baby gates with pet doors are only going to be suitable for small cats and dogs that can easily fit through the pet door. For larger size dogs, you will need to open the baby gate to let them through. 

Nevertheless, lots of people find that baby gates with pet doors are the solution to their problems! If this sounds like a good idea for your family, here are the best baby gates with pet doors we have found on Amazon.

 

 Baby GatePet DoorOther 
Carlson Lil' Tuffy

Carlson Lil' Tuffy Expandable Baby Gate with Pet Door
Height: 18"

Width: 26" to 42"

9"x 9"Steel frame

Pressure Mounting

Easy to Install
Read Review
Carslon Extra Wide

Carlson Extra Wide Baby Gate with Pet Door
Height: 30"

Width: 29" to 43"

10" x 7"Steel frame

Pressure Mounting

Easy to Install
Read Review
Carlson Design Studio

Carlson Design Studio Walk Through Baby and Pet Gate
Height: 28"

Width: 30.5" to 37.5"

10" x 7"Steel frame

Pressure Mounting & Screws for Wall Mounting

Easy to Install

Extensions available
Read Review
MyPet

MyPet Baby Gate with Pet Gate
Height: 30" or 36"

Width: 29.75" to 39"
9.5" x 8"Steel frame

Pressure Mounting

Easy to Install

Extensions available
Read Review
Carlson Maxi

Carlson Maxi Walk Through Pet Gate
Height: 31"

Width: 34" to 38" or 50" to 59"
10" x 7"Steel Frame

Screw Mounted

Easy to Install

Extensions available
Read Review
Carlson Extra Tall

Carlson Home Design Extra Tall Baby Gate with Pet Door
Height: 38"

Width: 29.5"
10" x 7"Steel frame

Pressure Mounting

Easy to Install

Extensions available
Read Review
Bettacare

Bettacare Baby Gate and Pet Gate
Height: 40.94"

Width: 29.53" to 33.07"
6.3" x 7.1"Steel frame

Pressure Mounting

Easy to Install

Extensions available
Read Review

 

 


 

Carlson Lil’ Tuffy Expandable Baby Gates with Pet Doors

For flexibility, you can’t go past the Carlson Lil’ Tuffy Expandable Baby Gate with Pet Door, because it can span widths of between 26 to 42 inches.

Carlson Lil' Tuffy Expandable Baby Gate with Pet DoorThis means that if you are renting and you move to a new location,  this baby gate and pet door will most likely still fit, even if the size of the doorways is different between homes – you just need to make sure that the entryways are between 26 and 42 inches.

Made from strong steel, this isn’t a flimsy safety gate that can be knocked over or broken easily. Once installed and pressure mounted to the walls, you will have a sturdy barrier for both your toddler and your pets. It can be installed in seconds and the soft rubber edges keep your walls free from damage and scuffs. 

  • Overall size of gate: 18″ tall x 26″ to 42″ wide x 1″ depth.
  • Size of pet door: 9″ square.
  • Made from strong steel.
  • Easy to set up.
  • Non-toxic paint.
  • Pressure mounted to walls (no screws needed).
  • Currently selling at less than $20.

The one problem with this baby gate is that it is only 18″ high, so a medium sized pet can most probably jump over it and once walking, your child will soon follow suit! For adults however, you can just step over it with no problem.

These baby gates with pet doors appear to be better suited for when you have toddlers who don’t have the balance or the strength to climb yet and maybe a litter of puppies that you need to keep confined as well!

Despite its lower height, the Lil’ Tuffy is a very popular baby and pet gate, so clearly it works well for lots of parents.

Check Price on Amazon

 

Carlson Lil' Tuffy Expandable Baby Gate with Pet Door

 


 

Carlson Extra Wide Baby Gates with Pet Doors

For taller baby gates with pet doors  – then this Extra Wide Gate by Carlson might do the trick. The Carslon Extra Wide Baby Gate with a Pet Door is 30 inches high, but at a maximum width of 37″, it isn’t as wide as the Lil’ Tuffy at 42″ – but when you add in the included extension kit, it expands up to 43″, just larger than the Lil’ Tuffy.

Carlson Extra Wide Baby Gate with Pet Door

  • Overall size of gate: 30″ tall x 29″ to 43″ wide x 1″ depth.
  • Size of pet door: 10″ tall by 7″ wide.
  • Made from strong steel.
  • Easy to set up.
  • Non-toxic paint.
  • Pressure mounted to walls (no screws needed).
  • Currently selling at less than $40.

At 10″ by 7″, this is a fairly decent size pet door, so if you really want to keep your smaller pets out of an area, it might be better to purchase a gate without a pet door at all (although cats are likely to jump over anyway). 

The main reason for a pet door is to allow your pets free range throughout the house while keeping the kids contained!

Check Price on Amazon

 

Carlson Extra Wide Baby Gate with Pet Door

 

 


 

Carlson Design Studio Walk Through Baby & Pet Gate

If you want a stylish and decorative baby gate with a lockable pet door and an auto close feature, then the Carlson Design Studio Walk Through Baby & Pet Gate is a great option. 

Carlson Design Studio Walk Through Baby and Pet GateIt’s one of the few baby gates that comes with both pressure mounting and screws for a firmer installation at the top of stairways.

With a lovely cherry wood detail and black powder coating, this is a delightful and stylish option for your home.

  • Overall size of gate: 28″ tall x 30.5″ to 37.5″ wide x 1″ depth.
  • Size of pet door: 10″ tall by 7″ wide.
  • Auto close feature.
  • Made from strong steel with premium cherry wood details.
  • Extensions available from manufacturer.
  • Easy to set up.
  • Non-toxic paint.
  • Pressure mounted to walls (no screws needed).
  • Also comes with wall mounts for the top of stairs.
  • Currently selling at less than $55.

 

Check Price on Amazon

 

Carlson Design Studio Walk Through Baby and Pet Gate

 

 


 

MyPet Baby Gates with Pet Doors

MyPet Baby Gate with Pet GateAvailable in both 30″ and 36″ tall versions, the MyPet Baby Gate and Pet Door is a beautiful bronze coloured gate with a lockable pet door.

This means that your pets can either roam freely throughout your home or you can contain them in one area with the kids! Even keep the kids on one side and the pets on the other side of the gate.

The MyPet Baby Gate is certified by the Juvenile Products manufacturers Association (JPMA) for children 6 months to 24 months of age. 

  • Overall size of gate: 30″ or 36″ tall x 29.75″ to 39.0″ wide x 1″ depth.
  • Size of pet door: 9.5″ tall by 8″ wide.
  • Extra wide 21″ door opening for easy movement through gate.
  • Additional 6″ and 12″ extensions available as well.
  • Made from strong steel with a matt bronze finish.
  • Two 3″ extensions included.
  • Easy to set up.
  • Non-toxic paint.
  • Pressure mounted to walls (no screws needed).
  • Currently selling at less than $80.

 

Check Price on Amazon

 

MyPet Baby Gate with Pet Gate

 

 


 

Carlson Maxi Walk Through Baby Gates with Pet Gates

Carlson Maxi Walk Through Pet GateWith the ability to expand up to 59″ and a height of 31″ (not forgetting that with extensions it can span up to 13 feet!), the Carlson Maxi Baby Gates and Pet Doors are one of the larger and expandable baby gates on the market.

The pet door can be locked to keep pups and kittens contained in one area or you can let your smaller pets wander while you contain larger pets and little ones in a safe area.

At 31″ tall, this gate is a good height for keeping your pets under control and since it needs to be screwed to the wall (it’s not pressure mounted), it’s ideal for areas where you don’t want the baby gate to come loose, such as at the top of stairways. Don’t forget that this is an extra wide baby gate, so it suits large hallways ans entryways without doorways.

  • Overall size of gate: 31″ tall x 34″ to 38″ or 50″ to 59″ x 1″ depth.
  • Size of pet door: 10″ tall by 7″ wide.
  • Additional extensions up to 13 feet in total available as well.
  • Made from strong steel .
  • Fairly easy to set up, but you do need a drill.
  • Screw mounted to walls (not pressure mounted)
  • Currently selling at less than $50.

 

Check Price on Amazon

 

Carlson Maxi Walk Through Pet Gate

 


 

Carlson Home Design Extra Tall Baby Gates with Pet Doors

Carlson Home Design Extra Tall Baby Gate with Pet DoorAt 38″ tall, the Carlson Home Design Extra Tall Baby Gates and Pet Doors are one of the tallest baby gates we can find for you and your family. They are also very stylish with cherry wood details and a black powder coating frame that is sure to suit the interior design of many homes.

If your pets are inclined to jump over baby gates, then this extra tall baby gate might do the trick and keep them contained in one area. The fact that it also comes with two extensions (2″ and a 4″ extension) means that you can add an extra 6″ to the width and be pretty sure that this wide baby gate will fit snugly in your doorways.

As a pressure mounted baby gate, you won’t leave any marks on your walls or door frames, so it is perfect for rental properties.

  • Overall size of gate: 38″ tall x 29.5″ wide x 1″ depth.
  • Size of pet door: 10″ tall by 7″ wide.
  • Comes with a 2″ and  a 4″ extension.
  • Additional extensions up to 75″ in total available as well.
  • Door opens in one direction only.
  • Pet door is lockable.
  • Made from strong steel .
  • Easy to set up – pressure mounted.
  • Currently selling at less than $70.

The main complaint about these baby gates with pet doors is that the 10″ x 7″ pet door is too big! Many small to medium size pets can squeeze through the pet door, but that is true for all models with this size pet door. Up until now, the smallest pet door we have seen is 9.5″ x 8″  belonging to the MyPet model above, however the Bettacare baby gate (reviewed below) has an even smaller pet door.

 

Check Price on Amazon

 

Carlson Home Design Extra Tall Baby Gate with Pet Door

 


 

Bettacare Baby Gates and Pet Gates

Bettacare Baby Gate and Pet GateThe great feature of the Bettacare Baby Gates with Pet Doors is that the size of the pet doors have been reduced in size. Clearly, Bettacare listened to their customers and realized that the usual size of the pet doors lets through too many small to medium size pets!

These gates are also quite high – and at 40.94″ this extra tall baby gate is the tallest we have found so far on the market. So if you want a tall baby gate with a small pet door, this model by Bettacare might be suitable for your family.

  • Overall size of gate: 40.94″ tall x 29.53″ to 33.07″ wide x 1″ depth.
  • Size of pet door: 6.3″ tall x 7.1″ wide.
  • Comes with a 2″ and  a 4″ extension.
  • Additional extensions up to 75″ in total available as well.
  • Door opens in one direction only.
  • Pet door is lockable.
  • Double locking mechanism.
  • Made from strong steel .
  • Easy to set up – pressure mounted with additional screws.
  • Currently selling at less than $70.

Check Price on Amazon

 

Bettacare Baby Gate and Pet Gate


Cheapest nanny cams

 

 

 

 

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Do Home Security Cameras Really Deter Thieves?

Thief looking in door - do home security cameras deter thieves?

 

Are home security cameras really worth the money?

Many of us are concerned about thieves breaking into our homes, so we install home security cameras both inside and outside of our homes as a deterrent. However, how much of a deterrent are security cameras? Do home security cameras actually stop thieves from selecting your home for their next foray?

On face value, you might assume that anyone who practices breaking and entering for a living would steer clear of homes with security cameras, and whilst this mainly does hold true, not all burglars worry about alarm systems. 

So what benefit is there to installing security cameras in your home? Well since checking for an alarm system is one of the first things a thief does when they are scoping out your property, it seems like a good idea to have at least one or two installed.

A study in 2012 that actually interviewed incarcerated burglars in North Carolina, Kentucky and Ohio, found that found that whilst just over 80% of burglars would look to see if a property had an alarm, only 40% said that surveillance cameras would make them look elsewhere. 

Of course, home security cameras are going to help deter thieves, but when more than half of them would not be put off by the presence of security cameras, what else can we do?

Well, there are plenty of things we can do to make burglars think that breaking into our home is not such a good idea at all and definitely isn’t the easiest of options. The video below gives a good overview of how burglars think and what you can do to keep your home safe from thieves.

 

 

Tips to help deter burglars from your home

 

You might be surprised to learn that most burglaries are performed during the day by people who can easily blend into the scenery and they can be in and out of your home in just a few minutes. What usually happens is that a burglar will approach your front door and knock and if no-one answers will head around the back to look for an easy entry.

home security cameras help to prevent theives breaking into your homeMost burglars don’t try to pick locks, instead forcing their way into your home is the fastest option, either through the back door, a window or even through the garage.

If an alarm does go off, they are not really worried, because most neighbors don’t pay attention to alarms anymore, and the police will take 8 to 10 minutes to arrive at the best.

Usually a burglar goes to the master bedroom first and then the living rooms, study and den, rarely going up into an attic or down into a basement. They will stick to ares from which they can exit quickly and are on the look out for jewelry, money, phones and laptops, and anything else that is small enough to carry away easily.

So given this scenario, here are 5 tips to help burglar proof your home.

1. Make friends with your neighbors

One of the best ways for a burglar to be deterred from breaking into your home is for a neighbor to pop their head over the fence and ask them – if they can help? Neighbors that look out for each other, particularly when they are at home and know that your are away at work or on holiday are one of the best first lines of defense against burglars. Any burglar confronted by a neighbor is quite likely to mumble some excuse and leave your property. So along with installing home security cameras, a neighbor who keeps their eyes open is one of the best deterrent to burglars.

2. Keep a family dog

barking dogs help with home securityMore often than not, when a burglar sees a dog on the property they will keep on walking. Whether the dog is outside or inside, most burglars know that they will either be bitten or confronted with a barking and irate dog that will instantly alert the neighbors that something is going on next door.

So having a family dog will help to deter burglars, as well as installing the right home security cameras on your property.

3. Don’t advertise your whereabouts

If you are going away for a weekend or on holidays, don’t shout it out on Facebook or any other social media for that matter. You might be surprised at the extent that burglars will go to to find easy pickings and knowing that a home is going to be unoccupied is an open invitation.

4. Lock the doors and windows

This might seem that an inane thing to say, but an unlocked door or window is the best way to encourage a burglar to enter your home. After all, when more than a third of burglars actually enter homes through an unlocked door – you have got to pay attention to locking everything up. Even if you are just popping out for 5 mins to take the kids to school or walk the dog – always lock the doors and windows (even if you are in the backyard gardening, lock the front door!).

Trimmed front yard of home helps with home security cameras5. Trim vegetation around doors and windows

High vegetation (trees and shrubbery) that covers the windows or the entry way to your home can give too much cover to a burglar.

This might be a simple tip, but it can still be very effective at putting off a burglar and making them keep on walking. So always keep vegetation close to your trimmed down enough so that if anyone does try to break into through the doors or windows, they can be easily seen by your neighbors.

Check out my Top 10 Nanny Cams for under $100 and help to keep your home safe from burglars. 

 

TOP 10 Cheapest Nanny Cams – My Pick

Cheapest nanny cams

 

TOP 10 Cheapest Nanny Cams under $100 – 2019

Not everyone has the budget to spend hundreds of dollars on a nanny cam or home security camera, so I have found the cheapest nanny cams for under $100.

Not only the cheapest (because cheap is sometimes nasty), but cheap and good quality with all of the features you need. Some have more features than others, but all of them are easy to install and have positive customer reviews as well.

This means that you can afford a nanny cam or security camera for your home without breaking the bank and be sure it is going to work well.

If you are curious (or in a hurry):

Top 3 cheapest nanny cams

This is my number one pick for the cheapest nanny cams with all of the features you need to make sure that your family is safe at home, when you can’t be there yourself.

It comes with 2-way communication, 1080p resolution, a wide angle lens and digital zoom, SD card slot, dual stream recording, lens correction technology and sound & motion detection.

This nanny cam is also ideal to re-purpose as a home security camera when your family has grown and you no longer need to use it as  a nanny cam. You can read my FULL review of this nanny cam or read lots of online customer reviews here.

 

What are the best and the cheapest nanny cams under $100?

There are lots of nanny cams on the market, but so many of them cost more than $100. This can make it a problem to many parents who really want to keep their family safe at home, but can’t stretch the budget to more than $100.

This is also true for people who want to keep an eye on their pets at home and for people with elderly relatives who they need to care for at home. So here is my list of the most affordable and cheapest nanny cams under $100 – ones that have plenty of features and are well-liked by customers.

  1. YI Wireless IP Nanny Cam.
  2. Amcrest ProHD Nanny Cam.
  3. SOTION Nanny Cam.
  4. Vimtag Nanny Cam.
  5. Cavalry IPC10010 Nanny Cam.
  6. Kamtron Nanny Cam.
  7. Yi Dome Nanny Cam.
  8. UOKOO Nanny Cam.
  9. NexGadget Mini Nanny Cam.
  10. Wansview Nanny Cam.

 

 

On this special Amazon page, you will see all of the best deals for nanny cams and home security cameras that have 4 or more star reviews. Many of these nanny cams have daily deals, making them the cheapest nanny cams of the day!

So it pays to check this website page, before you make your final decision.

 


 

Here are my Top 10 Cheapest Nanny Cams Under $100

 

You can compare all 10 of these nanny cams under $100 on my table here.

 

1. YI Wireless IP Nanny Cam

YI 1080p Wireless IP Home Security Camera and Nanny CamThis is a great little nanny cam for less than $100 and is a Best Seller on Amazon. It comes with an SD card slot for local storage, high level encryption and operates on mains power. You also have 2-way communication, 1080p resolution, night time vision, and sound & motion alerts on your smart phone.

With a wide angle lens (112 degrees), a digital zoom (x 4), dual stream recording (for optimum connections) and lens distortion technology (to correct any distortions from the wide angle lens), you have a fully functioning nanny cam at a very affordable price point.

What it doesn’t have for the price is a Pan & Tilt feature, but the wide angle lens gives you a big field of view of the room. You can also disable the audio recording on this nanny cam, which can be important for legal reasons. 

 

2. Amcrest ProHD Nanny Cam

DIY home surveillance - Amcrest ProHD 1080P nanny camThe Amcrest ProHD is an easy plug & play nanny cam for less than $100. It comes with an SD card slot for easy local storage, 1080p resolution and operates on mains power. 

You also have 2-way communication, a 90 degree viewing angle, pan & tilt (360 degrees), digital zoom (x 4), night time vision (up to 32 feet) and motion detection. The audio recording can also be disabled in areas where audio recordings without permission are illegal.

The only feature the Amcrest ProHD doesn’t have is sound detection, but that isn’t essential for everyone (it does have motion detection and alerts).

 

 

3. SOTION Nanny Cam

SOTION WiFi IP Security Video Camera and Nanny CamThe SOTION nanny cam has everything you need in a nanny cam or home surveillance camera and all for less than $100 (and its a Best seller on Amazon).

It has an SD card slot for local storage, 960p resolution and operates on mains power. You also have 2-way communication, pan & tilt (355 degrees x 110 degrees), a digital zoom (x 5), IR night teem vision ( up to 30 feet), motion detection and alerts (no sound detection), and secure encryption.

This pretty much covers everything you need to keep your family safe at home when you are away at work or overseas.

 

 

4. Vimtag Nanny Cam

Smart Cloud Wifi IP Camera - newThe Vimtag nanny am is the first in my Top 10 of most affordable nanny cams under $100 to actually have every single feature you would need. At such a cheap price point, this is an exceptional nanny cam, though currently it just hedges under the $100 mark.

This nanny cam gives you 2-way communication, pan & tilt (345 degrees x 115 degrees),wide angle lens (112 degrees), digital zoom (x 4), 960p resolution, crystal clear night vision, and both sound & motion detection and alerts.

You can store your images and videos on the SD card (not included in the purchase price) and it operates on mains power with USB charging as well. This is a solid nanny cam with great online reviews.

 

 

5. Cavalry IPC10010 Nanny Cam

Cavalry IPC10010 nanny camThis is another robust nanny cam for less than $100 with 1280p resolution and operates on mains power. It does not have a zoom function, but with a 355 pan & a 270 degree tilt feature you won’t miss any of the action in the room.

You also have 2-way communication, night time vision and motion detection & alerts. So you just about have everything you need in one package, all except a zoom function. Oh and you can save your images and videos to an SD card (not included in your purchase).

 

 

6. Kamtron Nanny Cam

Kamtron HD WiFi IP Camera and Nanny CamThe Kamtron Nanny Cam and Home Security Camera is another well priced model that offers full functionality and has lots of great online reviews. It comes with 2-way communication and night time vision (20 ft), as well as pan & tilt (350 x 100 degrees) and a 62 degree viewing angle.

The zoom is on the app, however you have 720p HD resolution and crystal clear images, motion detection and alerts, and an SD card slot for local storage.

 

 

7. Yi Dome Nanny Cam

YI Dome IP Security Camera and Nanny CamThe YI Dome Nanny Cam is currently priced at less than $100 and gives you plenty of great features. It comes with 2-way communication, a wide angle lens (112 degrees), pan & tilt (345 x 115 degrees) and 1080p resolution.

Not forgetting the IR night time vision (29.5 ft), the digital zoom on the app (x4), the real time motion detection and alerts, and the SD card slot. You also have multiple mounting options and it is available in white or black.

 

 

8. UOKOO Nanny Cam

UOKOO WIFI Wireless Security Camera and Nanny CamThe UOKOO Nanny Cam looks really cute and is currently selling for less than $50! You have 2-way communication, pan & tilt (355 degrees x 120 degrees), a zoom function on the app and 720p HD resolution.

The night vision feature gives you clear vision up to 16 feet and you also have motion detection and alerts on your smart phone. Add in an SD card slot for local storage and you can’t go wrong with this compact and very affordable little nanny cam.

 

 

9. NexGadget Mini Nanny Cam

NexGadget Mini IP Wireless Security CameraWith the dearth of features on the NexGadget Mini nanny cam, you might wonder why I have included it in my Top 10 most affordable nanny cams under $100. Well it is because it is well under $100, works well and has great customer reviews, which makes it definitely worthwhile investigating.

If all you want is a basic nanny cam or home security camera at a low price, then you can’t go wrong with this model by NexGadget. It offers you a manual 90 degree rotation and an 80 degree field of view, so you can set it up to maximize your viewing field of the room. You also have a zoom on the app – and that’s about it!

There is no SD card slot (you need to save images and video to your mobile phone), no pan & tilt, no night time vision, no 2-way communication, but it does have one way audio. When you see the features it lacks, while the customers still buy it every day, you know that it works well!

 

 

10. Wansview Nanny Cam

Wansview Home Security Camera and Nanny CamThis is another nanny cam under $100 that has most of the features you need to keep your home and family safe and looks really cute as well. You can even buy two of these nanny cams for the same price as many other options (and they come in black or white).

So the Wansview nanny cam comes with 2-way communication, night time vision (up to 20 feet), a wide angle lens (120 degrees), 720p resolution, and sound & motion alerts. It doesn’t have pan & tilt or an SD card slot, but this is a lot of functionality for such an affordable price.

 

 


 

Compare all of these Top 10 cheapest nanny cams in the table below.

 

Read ReviewFeaturesPoints to noteRank
YI

YI 1080p Wireless IP Home Security Camera and Nanny Cam

Read Review
- SD Card Slot
- 1080p Resolution
- 2-way Communication
- Wide Angle Lens (112 degrees)
- Digital Zoom x 4
- Night time vision
- Mains Power
- Sound & Motion Detection
- Baby Cry Alerts
- High Level Encryption
- Dual Stream Recording
- Lens Distortion Correction
- Mains Power
- Enable or disable audio function
- Easy to set up & use
- Great picture quality
- Value for money
1
Amcrest ProHD

Amcrest ProHD 1080P DIY home security nanny cam
Read Review
- SD Card Slot
- 1080p Resolution
- 2-way Communication
- Pan & Tilt (360 x 90 degrees)
- Digital Zoom x 4
- Mains Power
- Motion Detection
- Night time vision
- Enable or disable audio function
- Awesome customer support
2
SOTION


Read Review
- SD Card Slot
- 2-way Communication
- 960p Resolution
- Motion Detection
- Pan & Tilt (355 x 110 degrees)
- Digital Zoom (x 5)
- 2-way Communication
- Secure encryption
- Mains Power
- IR night time vision
- Easy setup
- Affordable & cheap
3
Vimtag

smart-cloud-wifi-ip-camera

Read Review
- SD Card Slot
- 960p Resolution
- 2-way Communication
- Pan & Tilt (345 x 115 degrees)
- Wide angle lens (112 degrees)
- Digital zoom (x 4)
- Mains Power
- USB Charging
- Night vision
- Sound & motion detection
- Easy to set & use
- Crystal clear images
- Great customer service
4
Cavalry IPC10010

Cavalry IPC10010 nanny cam with audio
Read Review
- SD card slot
- 1280p Resolution
- 2-way Communication
- Pan & Tilt (355 x 270 degrees)
- Mains Power
- Motion Detection
- Night time vision
- Very easy to set up
- Ideal for novice users
5
Kamtron

Kamtron HD WiFi IP Camera and Nanny Cam

Read Review
- SD Card Slot
- 720p Resolution
- 2-way Communication
- Pan & Tilt (350 x 100 degrees)
- Wide angle lens (62 degrees)
- Digital zoom on app
- Night time vision
- Motion Detection
- USB charger
- Very easy to set up
- Ideal for novice users
- Crystal clear images
- Well priced
6
YI Dome



Read Review
- SD Card Slot
- 2-way Communication
- 1080p Resolution
- Zoom on app
- 112 degree wide angle lens
- Pan & Tilt (345 x 115 degrees)
- Digital zoom on app (x4)
- IR night time vision
- Cloud storage option
- Motion Detection
- Multiple mounting options
- Mains power
- Fairly easy to set up
- Well priced
- Sells well
7
UOKOO

UOKOO WIFI Wireless Security Camera and Nanny Cam
Read Review
- SD Card Slot
- 2-way Communication
- 720p Resolution
- Zoom on app
- 120 degree field of vision
- Motion Detection
- Pan & Tilt (355 x 120 degrees)
- IR Night Time Vision
- Digital Zoom on app.
- Mains power
- Fairly easy to set up
- Very affordable
8
Nexgadget mini

NexGadget Mini IP Wireless Security Camera

Read Review
- No SD card
- 720p Resolution
- Save to mobile phone
- No pan & tilt
- Manual 90 degree rotation
- No night time vision
- No 2-way communication
- Has one-way audio only
- 80 degree viewing field
- Has motion detection
- Crystal clear images
- Lacks essential features
- Very easy to setup
- Cheap & affordable
- Sells well
9
Wansview

Wansview Home Security Camera and Nanny Cam

Read Review
- No SD card
- Save to mobile phone
- No pan & tilt
- IR night time vision
- 2-way communication
- Wide angle lens
- 720p Resolution
- Crystal clear images
- Sound & Motion Detection
- Lacks essential features
- Very easy to setup
- Cheap & affordable
- Sells well
10

 


 

Nanny Cam Table Comparisons

 

Read more of my nanny cam reviews here.

 

 

 

Top 10 home security tips for your vacation

top vacation tips for home security

 

Don’t drop the ball on home security during your vacation

Everyone looks forward to their vacation time, but that doesn’t mean that you can forget all about home security when you are away. It doesn’t matter whether you go away for a weekend or a month, paying attention to the security of your home is a 24/7 day job.

So let’s take a look at my Top 10 home security tips for your vacation.

 

Tip 1: Don’t post your vacation plans on social media

Telling everyone about your holiday plans before you go away on vacation and posting all of your photos and updates while you are away, is a good way to encourage someone to burglarize your home

Even though you will be really excited and looking forward to your vacation, the best home security tactic is to keep this information to yourself, until you return. It is also a good idea to ask your children to refrain from telling all of their fiends as well, although that might be difficult to achieve. The motto is however – the fewer that know you won’t be home, the better.

 

Tip 2: Ask your neighbors to keep an eye open

ask family for help with home securityIf you get along with your neighbors, ask them to keep an eye on your home and look for anyone hanging about or looking suspicious.

For added home security, you can also ask them to put out your garbage on time and to bring the bins back in as well, as this makes it look like you are still at home.

You can ask them to bring in your mail or if you have stopped your mail service (tip 3 below), ask them to pick up any junk mail that we all seem to collect on a daily basis in our mail boxes. Depending on the closeness of your neighbors, you could also ask them to park one of their cars in your driveway, as this is another great way to look like you are home and increase security while you are away..

 

Tip 3: Stop your mail

If you are only going on vacation for a few days, you may as well as a neighbor to collect your mail. On the other hand, if you are going on vacation for a week or more, it might be best for your home’s security to have your mail held at the mail center until you return. 

An abundance of mail not being picked up is a sure sign to potential burglars that there is no-one at home, so either ask a neighbor to collect it from your mail box or have your mail stopped until you return.

 

Tip 4: Look for a house sitter

house sitters for added home securityIf you have a reliable and trustworthy friend or relative, then having someone live in your home while you are away on vacation is a great idea. You can also do an online search for house sitters and there are established agencies that offer this service.

However, always make sure that anyone you hire from an agency to house sit has been thoroughly vetted, before you make your decision. Asking your friends and relatives if they have used a house sitting service is also a good idea.

 

Tip 5: Remove spare keys from outside your home

Having spare keys hidden around the exterior of your home, under mats, rocks, in the garage or on top of lintels is a good way to hand your home over to the burglars on a silver platter.

Burglars know that too many of us still leave keys outside somewhere easy to find and if they know you have gone away on vacation and left your home empty, they have all the time in the world to find your spare keys.

 

Tip 6: Mowing the lawn and trimming the hedges

tidying the lawns for home securityIf you are going to be away for more than a week, definitely for 2 weeks or more, then it is best if you hire someone to mow your lawns and trim your hedges.

You need to make your home look like you are still there and you haven’t gone away for a few weeks, so if you mow your lawn weekly, hire someone to do this for you until you come back.

A trusted relative or good friend might be a good choice, because you can give them your house keys and they can park in the driveway, open the garage, go into the house, etc., and make it look like someone is there as normal (only if you trust them though!).

Don’t forget that you can install an automatic sprinkler as well, to keep your lawns and garden beds watered and look like you are still at home.

 

Tip 7: Put the lights on an automatic timer

There is nothing quite like a dark home that shouts – we are on vacation! Home security is easy to maintain when you are away, simply by putting some of your internal and external lights on an automatic timer. 

Persistent burglars might come closer to make sure that you are home if the lights are on, but many will walk right past your home and zero in on one that is dark and looks empty. Check out the Piper nv Smart Home Security System, because this lets you add-in home security automation that controls the lights as well.

 

Tip 8: Fit deadbolts to the windows

One of the areas where it is fairly easy for burglars to break in is through windows that are not adequately locked. Yes, they can break a window pane, but since this makes a lot of noise, it is far easier to manhandle open a window that is just on a latch. 

Installing deadbolts or locks to your windows before you leave on vacation is jut an extra step in your home security that can put off burglars who are looking for an easy entry point. 

 

Tip 9: Lock the garage and garden shed

fitting locks for added home securityFirst of all, don’t leave expensive equipment in the garden shed, instead move it to a more secure location in your home.

Even so, make sure to fit a good lock to your garden shed, because mowers and other garden equipment are favorite items that go missing when you are on vacation. 

Also, ensure that your garage is properly locked (as well as all external doors to your home), and if possible, either move expensive equipment into the house or fit them with locks. For example, fit a lock to your tool box and weld a chain from your toolbox to a sturdy fixture on the wall or floor. 

 

Tip 10: Install a home security system before you go on vacation

There are two main options when you want to install a home security system – either a back to base system or standalone security cameras that you access with your smartphone (you can also save the videos to a DVR). Back to base systems can be expensive, so if your budget doesn’t stretch that far, fit a number of home security cameras instead.

You can read my Top 10 Nanny Cams, because most of these can be used as home security cameras as well, as they have most of the same features. Also, check out my post on where to locate your home security cameras for best effect when you are away from your home.

 


 

Find the narrowest nursery gliders for your nursery here.

 

 

How to position your home security cameras for maximum effect

Positioning homes security cameras

 

The best locations for your home security cameras

Did you know that in 2015, there were more than 1.5 million burglaries in the US? And that nearly three quarters of these were home burglaries and nearly two thirds were forcible entries? Or that one burglary is committed every 18 seconds? 

With these sort of numbers, no wonder everyone is worried about keeping their property secure and their family safe at home. The problem is that most people can’t afford an expensive security system with a back to base feature, so they tend to settle for standalone home security cameras or nanny cams that they can view on their smart phones.

There is nothing wrong with standalone security cameras or nanny cams for your home, as they are a great buy and you can easily outfit your home for just a few hundred dollars with the more basic models. When you realize that a third of burglars enter residences through an unlocked front door or window, the cost of buying security cameras or nanny cams for your home, doesn’t seem such a big imposition – does it?

Cirrus i6 - Indoor Pan Tilt Cloud Security CameraHow about the fact that in 3 out of every 10 burglaries – someone is at home? That is a scary fact, right there. Just imagining that your loved one is at home, when someone breaks in, sends shivers down your spine.

So we can agree that home security cameras can help you to keep your family safe at home and prevent burglaries taking place, because thieves tend to avoid homes with security cameras. Now that we have established the importance of home security cameras, you still need to know where to locate these cameras in your home for best effect. 

Locate them in the wrong areas and you can give the burglars a helping hand, rather than acting as a deterrent.

So lets take a look at some of the best locations for security cameras or nanny cams in your home, to help you keep your home and your family safe.

 


 

Where NOT to locate your home security cameras and nanny cams

home security cameras keep computer equipment safeIf we are going to consider where you should position your security cameras, it might be best to start by explaining where you shouldn’t locate them.

For example, lots of home owners like to position their security cameras so that they can see their computer system and check that no-one has stolen it while they are out at work.

This might seem like a good idea at first, but if anyone actually hacked into your security system, they will have a great view of your computer system and will already be thinking of how much they can sell it for when they have stolen it from your home.

Of course, the security encryption of security cameras and nanny cams should be good enough to prevent anyone from hacking into your system, but it could be a possibility, even a remote possibility. So given that this could happen, it is best not to point your security cameras or nanny cams towards your computers or expensive TV and give burglars a shopping list.

Another point to consider is that you don’t want your security cameras or nanny cams on view, because burglars will look for them and unplug them from the power, smash them, throw something over them or heavens forbid – steal them as well. So it pays to have at least a few security cameras that are hidden from view, whether these are designed as hidden cameras or just strategically placed so they are not obvious.

home security cameras help protect expensive TV equipmentIf your cameras have a pan and tilt feature, then there is no point in positioning them to look away from your computer or TV, as any hacker has complete control of your security cameras and can move the lens around at will.

If your security cameras or nanny cams don’t have this feature however, you could simply point them away from expensive items, so you don’t advertise them to hackers.

As I said, designers and manufacturers of home security cameras and nanny cams are extremely vigilant with updating their software to prevent hacking, as they would lose all credibility if their systems could be hacked easily. Nevertheless it always pays to be careful, particularly if being careful doesn’t cost you anything.

 


 

5 of the best places to position your home security cameras

Some of the best locations for your home security cameras and nanny cams (I say nanny cams because lots of people use them as security cameras as well) are the thoroughfares of your home (heavy traffic areas). These are areas where a burglar has to walk through to move around your home.

Yes, pointing home security cameras at the front and the back doors are important, because these are two popular entry points for burglars, but if you have a hallway where a burglar has to walk, regardless of where they entered your home, then this is also a good location for a security camera.

Let’s look at the best positions for locating your home security cameras:

1. Front door: With more than a third of burglars breaking in through your front door, whether it is unlocked or not, this is a great place to position your cameras. So make sure that one of your security cameras has a very good view of the front door and the entrance way of your home.

Another point to note is that some burglars will ring the bell to see if anyone is at home, so consider installing a WiFI Enabled Video Doorbell for extra security. With one of these video door bells, you can answer the door remotely to see who is at your door and respond to them, even if you are at work and your home is empty, giving the burglars the idea that you are actually at home. You can also use them when you are at home, so you don’t open the door if you feel unsafe.

 

2. Back door: With nearly a quarter of all burglars entering via the back door of residential properties, you need to have a security camera facing this part of your home, in the same way as you need one facing the front door.  

 

HooToo security camera and nanny cam3. Back facing windows: When the back part of your home cannot be easily seen from the street, burglars are very tempted to try and gain entry through the windows at the rear of your home.

This means that you need to strategically place an internal security camera in a position that gives you a good view of the rear windows, the ones that give burglars the best opportunity to break in without being seen from the road or neighbors.

 

4. High traffic areas: If you don’t have much money, the best solution is to locate at least two home security cameras in high traffic areas of your home. Burglars rarely just ransack one room in your home, heading for the master bedroom first and then other rooms where they believe there might be something of value. 

If you have a two story home, you could position a security camera to have a good view of the stairs for example, so you can see anyone going up or down the stairs. Then pick another through fare downstairs, where a burglar must walk to access the majority of your rooms.

 

5. Basement door: If you have a basement or garage, then burglars can gain access through an external door or window. So position a security camera that lets you view the stairs going up to your house from a basement, as well as as much of the basement as possible. You could also place a camera in your home, facing the entryway to the basement or the garage, but if a burglar just breaks into your basement and steals your large screen TV or your jet ski from the garage, without entering your home, you won’t know until its too late. 

 


 

How about positioning nanny cams in your home?

Arlo Q HD Security Camera and nanny camMany home owners with young children purchase nanny cams to use as security cameras as well. You can find all of the features you want in both a nanny cam and a security camera in on single camera, so this is a very cost effective strategy to protect your home and your family.

If you want to keep an eye on your children while you are away from home and they are left in the care of your partner, relative or baby sitter, then you can locate a nanny cam in the nursery and in the living room. 

When you position a nanny cam in the nursery, you can chat to your partner while they are attending to your little one, making you feel that you are still part of the proceedings, even though you can’t be physically there in the nursery.

You can also sing to your little one to comfort them if they wake unsettled, while your partner is making their way to the nursery – this is a great feature when you are working overseas or interstate and your smartphone detects the sound of your little one waking.

You can also position a nanny cam in the main living area or space where your children do their homework, chatting and catching up on their day. Nanny cams are perfect for anyone who can’t always be at home with their children, but still want to have frequent contact with their family.

 


 

Read all about my Top 10 nanny cams and home security cameras here.

 

 

25 Baby Shower Gifts for less than $100

25 Baby Shower Gifts

 

Your go-to list for affordable baby shower gifts

Sometimes our lives are so busy that having to buy yet another gift for someone can put us over the edge! That’s why I have put together this list of fabulous baby shower gifts, all under $100, so you don’t have to search the internet yourself and you don’t have to spend oodles of dollars.

All of my Top 25 are popular baby shower gifts that sell well and have plenty of good customer reviews. From a stylish diaper bag to a nursing pillow, soft comfy baby towels, first year photo frames or a sleep sound machine to settle baby. There is something for everyone and all selling for less than $100, most less than $50 and quite a few less than $20. Enjoy 🙂

 

  1. Skip Hop Baby Duo Signature Diaper Bag.
  2. My Brest Friend Original Nursing Pillow.
  3. Leachco Snoogle Total Body Pillow.
  4. Burt’s Bees Mama Bee Belly Butter.
  5. AZMED Maternity Breathable Abdominal Binder and Back Support.
  6. Pregnancy Bath Flakes – Organic Magnesium from Dead Sea.
  7. Womb Music Heart Beat Baby Monitor by Wusic.
  8. Baby’s First Year Frame in Elegant White Natural Wood.
  9. Baby Handprint and Footprint Frame Package by Bubzi Co.
  10. Baby Bandana Drool Bibs by KiddyStar.
  11. The Motherhood Collection Natural Ultra-Soft Bamboo Washcloths.
  12. Little Martin’s Drawer Battery Operated Baby Nail File.
  13. The First Years Quick Serve Bottle Warmer.
  14. Graco SnugRide 30 Click Connect Front Adjust Car Seat.
  15. Little Martin’s Drawer Baby Nasal Aspirator.
  16. Wooden Hair Brush and Comb Set for Newborns and Toddlers.
  17. Ike and Leo Teething Toys – Set of 4 Silicone Teethers.
  18. Nora’s Nursery Baby Cloth Pocket Diapers.
  19. Bumworks Cloth Diaper Toilet Sprayer Kit by Kaydee Baby.
  20. Medical Grade Natural Antibacterial Baby Bath Towels.
  21. Little Lamb Wool Dryer Balls.
  22. Fisher-Price On-The-Go Baby Dome.
  23. Nursing Breastfeeding Cover Scarf.
  24. SwaddleMe By Your Side Deluxe Sleeper.
  25. Summer Infant Slumber Buddies Projection and Melodies Soother.

 


 

1. Skip Hop Baby Duo Signature Diaper Bag

Skip Hop Baby Duo Signature Diaper Bag - baby shower giftsThe Skip Hop Baby Duo Signature Diaper Bag takes diaper bags to the next level with increased functionality and style.

This updated model has lots of new features that have been requested by parents, making it the ideal baby accessory for everyone.

You have a new zip-top closure that makes sure your belongings remain securely in the bag, and 10 different pockets, including two that are elasticized, as well as mesh pockets that fit most bottles. The pockets are very secure and are great for phones, keys and your wallet and the newly designed front panel gives you lots of storage space and easy access to the inside. 

There are both grab handles and an adjustable shoulder strap with a padded shoulder pad for added comfort, and it hangs easily on your stroller with special shuttle clips. It even holds 15″ laptops, has D-rings for toys and comes with a cushioned changing pad as well.

Customers like its style, durability and all of the pockets, and find that they can easily fit in everything they need without any problems. The Skip Hop Baby Duo Signature Diaper Bag is approximately 13.0″ x 4.24″ x 13.75″ and is made from BPA free polyester. At less than $50, this is a really practical and stylish gift for the mother to be and deserves to be on our list of top baby shower gifts.

 


 

2. My Brest Friend Original Nursing Pillow 

My Brest Friend Original Nursing Pillow This fabulous wrap around nursing pillow by My Brest Friend is made from 100% cotton and has a removable cover that is machine washable.

It can be a bit of a tussle removing and refitting the cover however, but it sells well and customers have lots of positive comments.

The great feature of this feeding pillow is that it wraps around your body securely, so that baby can’t drop into any little gaps between the pillow and your body. It also has lots of arm and elbow support, which is important when you are sitting in one spot for quite a while and it also provides back support as well.

This nursing pillow is perfect for mums who have had a c-section as it keeps the weight of the baby off your tummy and since it has an adjustable fit, it keeps both you and your baby in a comfortable, safe and supported position while breast feeding. 

Correctly positioning baby helps your baby to latch on correctly and stay latched on for the duration of the feed. This nursing pillow is approximately 22.5 x 16.0 x 6.0 inches in size, free from BPAs and latex, and at less than $30 is a wonderful addition to your list of baby shower gifts.

 


 

3. Leachco Snoogle Total Body Pillow

Leachco Snoogle Total Body PillowThe Leachco Snoogle Total Body Pillow is a Best Seller on Amazon and it is no wonder, because it gives pregnant moms lots of comfort and support in bed.

It has a removable cover that is machine washable and was developed by a registered nurse and mom.

Most pregnant moms know that one pillow at night just isn’t enough for comfort and trying to get comfortable can be a wasted effort anyway! Well, all is not lost because this snoogle pillow supports your back, knees, tummy and your head and neck as well. It doesn’t even make you feel all hot and bothered like some other pillows.

This is a full body solution for complete comfort at night and gets rid of the problem of multiple pillows that don’t do any good anyway. Its dimensions are 60.0 x 24.8 x 7.2 inches, it is  made from BPA and latex free polyester and it is less than $50.

Customers love how much support it gives them in bed and find that they keep using it even after their baby is born. Make sure to add the Leachco Snoogle Total Body Pillow to your list of baby shower gifts today!

 


 

4. Burt’s Bees Mama Bee Belly Butter

Burts Bees Mama Bee Belly ButterIf you are looking for low cost baby shower gifts, then Burt’s Bees Mama Bee Belly Butter hits the spot! This 6.5 ounce jar is 99% natural belly butter with cocoa, shea and jojoba butters to smooth and soften your skin.

This belly butter is fragrance free and has no phthalates, parabens, petroleum or SLS and has been specially formulated for pregnant moms. This rich blend of belly butter gently and safely moisturizes the skin of your growing tummy, keeping your skin smooth and supple as your skin stretches during pregnancy. 

Customers absolutely love this belly butter, saying that it it removes dry patches, lightens stretch marks and makes their skin silky smooth. At less than $12 and a Best Seller on Amazon, it is no wonder that Burt’s Bees Mama Bee Belly Butter is on my top list of baby shower gifts.

 


 

5. AZMED Maternity Breathable Abdominal Binder and Back Support

AZMED Maternity Belt and Breathable Abdominal Binder - baby shower giftsThis lovely abdominal binder eases the discomfort of pregnancy on your hips, pelvis and lower back by providing support where it is needed.

As a Best Seller on Amazon, this abdominal support is selling well, because it eases the strain on your back and helps to correct poor posture, whilst supporting weak tummy muscles.

The binder works because it helps to lift your pregnant tummy, minimizing the pulling forward and down of your belly, which often causes back pain. It effectively redistributes the weight of your pregnancy and helps to make your back feel better.

This abdominal belly binder is made from breathable material, so you won’t feel all hot and bothered wearing it and it comes in one size fits all – up to 46 inches (it is also machine washable). It is easy to put on and take off and customers find that it really helps to make them feel more comfortable during the day.

At just under $25, the AZMED Maternity Abdominal Binder deserves a place on your list of affordable and practical baby shower gifts. 

 


 

6. Pregnancy Bath Flakes – Organic Magnesium from Dead Sea 

Pink Stork Flakes - Pregnancy Bath Flakes - Organic Magnesium from Dead SeaThese wonderful bath flakes from Pink Stork contains 100% organic magnesium harvested from the Dead Sea in Israel. All you need to do is to fill up the tub, add your Pink Stork flakes and let yourself be rejuvenated, relaxed and restored.

Pink Stork are well known for treating the source of many pregnancy ailments and their products are backed by decades of scientific research. These bath flakes are designed to help reduce morning sickness, and to help you to relax and sleep better.

One of the causes of morning sickness is a lack of magnesium, so this is why these bath flakes can help; Magnesium is also a natural remedy for aches and pains. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease, so always check with your medical professional, just to be on the safe side.

These bath flakes are a fun and pampering solution that can help you relax and feel much better during your pregnancy. Customers think they are amazing, saying that they help to reduce their swelling at the end of the day, help with aches and pains and also help to control morning sickness.

At less than $20, these Pregnancy Bath Flakes are a serious contender on our list of the best 25 baby shower gifts.

 


 

7. Womb Music Heart Beat Baby Monitor by Wusic

Womb Music Heartbeat Baby Monitor by Wusic - baby shower giftsThis is another Best Seller on Amazon that is always selling like hot cakes! With the Womb Music Hear Beat Monitor by Wusic, you can hear your baby’s heart beat and other sounds in the womb and you can even record these sounds and play them later to your friends and family.

The sounds are very clear and it comes with 2 sets of ear plugs and is easy to use and to carry around with you (4.0 x 2.8 x 2.0 inches). Your purchase includes one 9V battery, but you need to buy doppler gel or KY gel to rub onto your tummy to make it work.

Mums love being able listen to their babies wherever they are and at any time, as it puts them at ease being able to hear their baby’s heartbeat. The womb music heartbeat baby monitor is both FDA and CE certified, so it is safe to use at home to listen in to your baby’s heartbeat, but you still need to visit your medical professional regularly, as this does not replace good medical care.

At less than $60, the Womb Music Heart Beat Monitor is a fabulous idea for baby shower gifts and you can read my full review here.

 


 

8. Baby’s First Year Frame in Elegant White Natural Wood

Babys First Year Frame in Elegant White Natural Wood This beautiful Baby’s First Year Frame in Elegant White Natural Wood by Green Pollywog will compliment any decor. It is perfectly sized to hold twelve 2.0 x 3.0 inch photos and one 4.0 x 6.0 inch photo without needing any trimming.

The glass is museum grade and provides UV protection to the photos, making sure that they do not fade in the sunlight. The corners are double reinforced so that you can insert and remove photos without damaging the frame. 

You can hang the frame in the nursery or even in Grandma’s bedroom and your photos will look amazing in this 19.0 x 10.0 inch solid wood picture frame, which is finished in natural white. This lovely frame is designed to hold one photo for each of your baby’s first 12 months and is ideal as a baby shower gift or as a gift for a delighted grandparent.

Customers think that this frame is really cute. Baby’s First Year Frame is ideal for both boys and girls and at less than $20, makes a great addition to your list of baby shower gifts. 

 


 

9. Baby Handprint and Footprint Frame Package by Bubzi Co

Bubzi Co - Charming Baby Handprint and Footprint Frame Package - baby shower giftsThis fabulous baby gift is a Best Seller on Amazon and comes with everything you need to save your baby’s first foot and hand prints forever.

You have 3 packets of air-dry white clay that is pliable and soft, doesn’t require any mixing or baking and is non toxic and safe for babies and children.

You also have a quality white wood frame and safe acrylic glass, making this a very special package that is the perfect addition to your nursery or as a gift to the grandparents. 

We all know that babies don’t stay small for very long, which is why this is a lovely gift for parents who want to save this wonderful magical moment forever. This package is an easy DIY project, even if you have never done any crafts before now!

The frame is 11.1 x 0.78 x 9.09 inches and the silhouettes for the photos are 2.75 x 2.75, so you need photos a little larger than these dimensions to fit correctly. At less than $30, this wonderful Baby Handprint and Footprint Frame by Bubzi Co is the perfect baby shower gift.

 


 

10. Baby Bandana Drool Bibs by KiddyStar

Baby Bandana Drool Bibs by KiddyStar - baby shower gifts Another Best Seller on Amazon, this pack of 8 unisex Baby Bandana Bibs makes a lovely and affordable baby shower gift for the mum to be.

Babies always drool and all of this wetness can be annoying to mums and babies, making these baby bibs the perfect, practical gift.

The double layer design has a front layer of 100% cotton, which has high absorption capacity to restrict any fluid from crossing the bib’s boundaries.

The back side has a polyester fleece, which resists moisture and prevents it from passing through to your baby’s clothes – helping your little one to stay dry all day long.

The snap closures are nickel free and hypoallergenic, and help you to adjust the size of the bandana, so that they comfortably fit all babies, up to age of 24 months. The stitching is high quality and the material is very durable, and the edges don’t fray after just a few washes like some other cheaper bibs.

Customers love these bandana bibs, saying that the drool doesn’t soak through and they are bigger than other similar bibs they have purchased. At less than $25, these Baby Bandanas Drool Bibs make the perfect baby shower gift for mums to be. 

 


 

11. The Motherhood Collection Natural Ultra-Soft Bamboo Washcloths

The Motherhood Collection Natural Ultra-Soft Bamboo Washcloths - best baby shower giftsThese lovely washcloths come in white, yellow or green and are free from dyes, hypoallergenic, 100% natural and made from premium bamboo.

They are ultra-soft and perfect for your baby’s delicate and sensitive skin and come in a box of six, so they are great value and they are a Best Seller on Amazon.

At 10 inches square, these washcloths are the ideal size to bathe your baby, keeping your little one nice and clean at bath time. Your baby’s skin is so sensitive that they can easily suffer from eczema, rashes and cradle cap. However, with these beautiful, natural bamboo wash cloths, which are non-irritant and softer and more absorbent than other washcloths, your babies skin is kept silky smooth and perfect.

Lots of customers actually buy these washcloths for their own use, because they are so soft and go through the wash well. The Motherhood Collection of Natural Ultra-Soft Bamboo Washcloths is the ideal gift for new mums to be and at less than $20, they certainly deserve to be on your list of the best baby shower gifts.

 


 

12. Little Martin’s Drawer Battery Operated Baby Nail File 

Little Martins Drawer Baby Nail FileThis wonderful gadget comes in either pink or blue, operates on batteries and is designed to trim baby’s nails safely.

The nail file is whisper quiet, so you can trim their nails while they are asleep!

It has a front LED light as well, and comes with three cushioned sandpapers that are safe for babies and toddlers and even three attachments that can be used for adults.

This Baby Nail File doesn’t damage the cuticles or the soft nail beds on your little ones fingers, and makes it so easy to trim your baby’s nails without worrying about hurting them.

There are two control speeds (high/low) and two rotations (clockwise/reverse) giving you all the control you need to perfectly trim your baby’s nails. With its light weight and compact design, you can even take this Baby Nail File on holiday with you!

This is the perfect gift for all new mums, because they don’t have to worry about keeping mittens on their baby’s hands to stop them scratching themselves anymore. Customers love how fast this baby Nail File is to use and feel very confident in keeping their baby’s nails safely trimmed, instead of using clippers or scissors.

At just under $30, this Baby Nail File by Little Martin’s Drawer makes the perfect baby shower gift and is very affordable as well.

 


 

13. The First Years Quick Serve Bottle Warmer

The First Years Quick Serve Bottle WarmerThis has to be on of the handiest gifts you can buy for the mum to be! It not only warms formula, but it also warms breast milk that has been expressed and stored, and it warms baby food jars as well.

There is an auto shut off for added safety, it is BPA free and works with most size bottles. This Bottle Warmer heats bottles quickly, all you need to do is to add water from the measuring vial, add the bottle or baby jar (in the holding basket), press the button and when the light goes off the milk or food is warmed. 

You can even use it to sterilise pacifiers, just remember to pop the lid on the holding basket first. Since you can heat both bottles and baby food, this Bottle Warner will last from newborn babies right through the toddler years.

At less than $20 and a Best Seller on Amazon, the First Years Quick Serve Bottle Warmer makes a fabulous baby shower gift for mums.

 


 

14. Graco SnugRide 30 Click Connect Front Adjust Car Seat 

Graco SnugRide 30 Click Connect Front Adjust Car SeatThis is a popular and ultra-light infant car seat that is easy to carry around and is suitable for babies from 4 to 30lbs.

The Graco SnugRide 30 Click Connect Front Adjust Car Seat protects rear facing babies in the car and is an excellent first car seat for your baby.

The Click Connect system provides an easy one step secure attachment to all Graco Click Connect Strollers, making this the perfect travelling system.

It also comes with the base, which makes this car seat very affordable and great value for money. With the weight of the car seat only 7lb, you can move from the car straight to the stroller, making it even easier to get out and about with your new baby.

Graco is one of the most well known and popular manufacturers of baby car seats and strollers. All of their products undergo rigorous safety testing, so you can be confident that your Graco SnugRide 30 Click Connect Car Seat will keep your little one safe and comfortable at all times. 

At less than $100, this is a wonderful gift for the new mom or the mom-to-be and deserves to be on your list of baby shower gifts.

 


 

15. Little Martin’s Drawer Baby Nasal Aspirator 

Little Martin's Drawer Baby Nasal AspiratorThis might not be your first pick for baby shower gifts, but all new mums need one of these and they sell like hot cakes on Amazon.

So if you are looking for a practical gift, this FDA approved nasal aspirator should be on your list of the best baby shower gifts.

It generates enough suction to safely remove stubborn mucus while not harming your baby’s delicate sinuses and mucus membranes. There are two nozzle sizes, made from soft silicone, so you will always have the right size nozzle available.

The aspirator is battery operated, light weight and is so easy to use. Its compact design fits in the palm of your hand and it is controlled by the simple push of a button, allowing for one handed use.

This aspirator is a huge benefit to mums whose babies suffer from frequent blocked noses, letting you quickly and safely remove the mucus and helping your baby to breath more easily.

The waterproof construction allows you to rinse and clean the machine without damaging the electronic components, while the internal silicone mucus collection cup and nozzle can be removed and boiled for sterilisation.

At less than $50, the Little Martin’s Drawer baby Nasal Aspirator is a very practical and longed for baby shower gift!

 


 

16. Wooden Hair Brush and Comb Set for Newborns and Toddlers 

OCCObaby Natural Baby Brush SetThis is a very simple, but thoughtful and practical gift for a new mum. The OCCObaby Natural Baby Brush Set comes in a lovely packaged box and has everything mums and dads need to groom their baby’s hair, from newborns to toddlers.

The natural soft goat hair bristles help to prevent cradle cap, conditions your baby’s hair and distributes the natural oils down the shaft of each hair. The soft bristles also prevent static building up and are very gentle on your baby’s soft spot.

The goats hair bristles are 100% hypoallergenic and the soft brush is perfect for newborns, whilst the massage brush is ideal for massaging your baby’s scalp,  untangling their hair and relaxing them.

These brushes are BPA free and the handles made from solid maple wood. The OCCObaby Natural Baby Brush Set is currently priced at less than $25 and is a lovely baby shower gift for new parents.

 


 

17. Ike and Leo Teething Toys – Set of 4 Silicone Teethers

Ike and Leo Teething ToysThis set of 4 teething toys are suitable for both infants and toddlers and are perfect for helping to sooth teething problems.

They are 100% safe for your little ones and are certified and FDA approved, made from premium food-grade silicon, and are BPA, PVC and phthalate free.

These teething toys are perfectly shaped for little hands, so that your little one can easily grab onto the rings themselves and the teething toys can even reach all the way back to the molars. 

There is also a pacifier clip to help keep the teething toys from dropping on the floor and they have different textured surfaces to keep your baby engaged and content.

Just about 100% of mums say that they love the Ike & Leo Silicone Teethers, because their little ones can hold them easily and they can be sterilized to keep them clean and hygienic. At less than $20, these teething toys are popular items, flying off the shelves as we speak!

 


 

18. Nora’s Nursery Baby Cloth Pocket Diapers 

Noras Nursery Baby Cloth Pocket DiapersThese cloth pocket diapers make the perfect baby shower gift for new mums and dads. You have 7 different pocket diapers and 7 washable inserts made from absorbent bamboo.

The pocket diapers are waterproof and have a special leg gusset for added comfort, whilst the bamboo inserts have 2 layers of bamboo viscose and 2 layers of microfiber, giving you super absorbency and no nasty leaks!

The adjustable snaps means that you can alter the size and fit of these pocket diapers as your little one grows and they are good for 10lbs up to 33 lbs in weight. With a free wet bag as well, this is a gift that helps to keep our environment safe and is budget conscious for parents.

At less than $100, these Baby Cloth Pocket Diapers by Nora’s Nursery make a wonderful and thoughtful baby shower gift. 

 


 

19. Bumworks Cloth Diaper Toilet Sprayer Kit by Kaydee Baby

Bumworks Cloth Diaper Toilet Sprayer Kit by Kaydee Baby - cute baby shower giftsIf you are searching for unique baby shower gifts, then the Bumworks Cloth Diaper Toilet Sprayer Kit by Kaydee Baby fits the bill! 

This is such a  practical gift for new parents and one which they will not have considered buying for themselves.

It is really easy to install and you don’t need to call a plumber, as any handy person can do it – which is a huge bonus. It only takes 5 minutes to fit, and it fits most standard American toilets fixtures (7/8 inch).

This toilet sprayer makes short work of soiled nappies, cleaning them in a jiffy and then all you need to do it to flush the toilet and put the cloth nappies in your bucket for washing. 

This is a quality toilet sprayer that doesn’t leak, gives you high pressure every time and is designed to be used one-handed. At less than $50, the Bumworks Cloth Diaper Toiler Sprayer Kit by Kaydee Baby has to be one of the best baby shower gifts on the planet!

 


 

20. Medical Grade Natural Antibacterial Baby Bath Towels

LOVE MY - Medical Grade Natural Antibacterial Super Water Absorbent Baby Bath Towels - baby shower gifts for momThese super absorbent baby bath towels by LOVE MY are lovely and practical baby shower gifts for new moms. They are made from 100% cotton, and are soft healthy, breathable and easily washable.

These hypoallergenic baby bath towels are perfect for your baby’s sensitive and delicate skin. They don’t contain any nasty chemicals, and are anti-microbial, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial, making these towels perfect for babies with eczema.

You receive two towels, both 43 x 45 inches, which is easily large enough to wrap your baby after their bath and the special honeycomb embossing makes these baby bath towels three times more absorbent than other towels. They are so soft and comfy that they can even be used a baby blankets.

At just over $30, these Medical Grade Natural, Antibacterial and Super Absorbent Baby Bath Towels are a fabulous idea for baby shower gifts.

 


 

21. Little Lamb Wool Dryer Balls 

Little Lamb Wool Dryer Balls - baby shower giftsYou might not think that the Little lamb Wool Dryer Balls would make great baby shower gifts, but all mums need lots of soft fluffy towels for their baby and they want all of their clothes and blankets lovely and soft as well.

This means mums need to spend money on fabric softener that contain lots of harsh chemicals and are not good for our environment or for your baby. That makes these wool dryer balls such a fabulous alternative to fabric softener (you receive six balls), because they are 100% natural and perfect for your baby’s sensitive and delicate skin and they are a Best Seller on Amazon.

When you use these wool dryer balls in your tumbler dryer, they even reduce the drying time by 25% for large loads and 40% for smaller loads! That’s a huge time saving for busy mums. 

These completely natural and hypoallergenic wool dryer balls come from New Zealand (they have lots of sheep in NZ) and last for around 1500 washes. For less than $15, the six pack of Little Lamb Wool Dryer Balls are a practical and affordable gift for a baby shower.

 


 

22. Fisher-Price On-The-Go Baby Dome

Fisher-Price Baby Shower GiftsThis lovely little Baby Dome is perfect for new parents. It provides a comfortable and protected spot for baby to take a nap when mum and dad are on the go and can also be used as a safe spot to play with their baby (it comes with two hanging toys).

Since the Fisher-Price Baby Dome is portable and comes with easy carry handles, it can be used indoors or outdoors, and folds flat for easy transport. Take your baby with you to the coffee shop, your friend’s home for lunch or to the beach with the family. Your baby will be safe from the sun in a lovely cosy haven, all day long.

At just over $50, the Fisher-Price On-The-Go Baby Dome is one of the best baby shower gifts for new parents and it is a Best Seller on Amazon with plenty of rave reviews.

 


 

23. Nursing Breastfeeding Cover Scarf 

Nursing Breastfeeding Cover Scarf - best new baby giftsThis is not just a Breastfeeding Cover Scarf, it can be a car seat canopy, stroller cover, carrier cover, chair cover and a shopping cart cover. The scarf has so many uses, this makes a really practical and stylish gift for a baby shower and it is a Best Seller on Amazon.

As a nursing cover it keeps your little one safe from prying eyes when he or she is feeding, and also keeps them safe away from the sun, heat and the wind. It is super light, stretchable and breathable, and is machine washable and can be put in the dryer.

Even dads can use this cover scarf when they take their little one out in the stroller to keep them safe from the sun and wind. At less than $20, the Nursing Breastfeeding Cover Scarf from QAQADU is a very affordable gift for a baby shower.

 


 

24. SwaddleMe By Your Side Deluxe Sleeper 

SwaddleMe By Your Side Deluxe Sleeper - baby shower gifts for momThis is a fabulous baby shower gift that is designed to allow mums and dads to have their little one sleep safely next to them during the night, but in their own little cot.

This prevents babies becoming too hot in their mum and dad’s bed and in the worse case scenario – rolled on during the night.

The sturdy metal frame folds flat, making it easy to move around the home or take away on holidays with you, and the mesh sides allow air to circulate and also gives you a good view of your little one.

The SwaddleMe Sleeper comes with a mattress pad and a sheet, which are machine washable and the deluxe model comes with a detachable sound, light and vibration unit that plays heartbeat, nature sounds and music to help your little one drift off to sleep. 

At just under $60 for the deluxe model and around half that for the model without the sound, light and vibration unit, the SwaddleMe By Your Side Sleeper is a thoughtful and practical gift for new parents and needs to be on your list of fabulous baby shower gifts.

 


 

25. Summer Infant Slumber Buddies Projection and Melodies Soother

Eddie the Elephant by Summer Infant - best baby shower gifts for momIf you are looking for cute baby shower gifts, you can’t go wrong with Eddie the Elephant by Summer Infant. This lovely sleep sound machine will help your little one drift off to a peaceful sleep, any time during the day or night.

It plays 5 soothing melodies and nature sounds and shows a sparkling starry sky light show on the ceiling and walls. There is a timer that can be set for 15, 30 or 45 mins when it will automatically turn itself off to save the batteries (it requires 3 AA batteries that are included).

This soft plush toy makes a wonderful night time companion to ease your little one to sleep and can also help to calm your little one if he or she is unsettled during the day.

With its 5 calming melodies (Brahm’s Lullaby, Hush Little Baby, Frolic Rhodes, Babbling Brook and Heart Beats), as well as the tranquil light display, you should have no problems settling your little one for sleep.

Currently priced at less than $15, the Summer Infant Eddie the Elephant Slumber Buddy is a wonderful gift idea for your baby shower.

 


 

Most comfortable and narrowest nursery gliders

 

To read about my Top 10 Narrowest Nursery Gliders, click here.

 

 

 

Christmas Gifts for Dads Who Have Everything – Gadgets for Christmas

Cool gadgets for Christmas

 

My Best Pick of Cool Gadgets for Christmas Dads will LOVE

When it comes to buying gifts for men and dads in particular, you can’t go wrong with buying cool gadgets for Christmas. Guys love things they can tinker with, that have lots of buttons and which make them feel like they have the latest high-tech gadgets 🙂

So to help you out this holiday season, here is my Top 10 pick of the best and the coolest gadgets for Christmas that will put a smile on your dad’s, boyfriend’s or husband’s face this year.

  1.  RIF6 Cube 2-inch Mobile Projector.
  2.  Merge VR – Virtual Reality Headset for iPhone and Android.
  3.  Devialet Phantom.
  4. Samsung T3 Portable SSD.
  5.  Tile Slim – Phone Finder. Wallet Finder.
  6.  Garmin nuvi 2597LMT 5-inch GPS.
  7.  Rexing V1 2.4″ LCD 1080p Wide Angle Dashboard Camera.
  8.  Seek Thermal CompactXR Thermal Imager for Smartphones.
  9.  Garmin Approach S2 GPS Golf Watch with Worldwide Courses.
  10.  Star Wars Sphero BB-8 Droid.

 


 

1. RIF6 Cube 2-inch Mobile Projector

Meet the CUBE! This 2 inch portable mobile projector works with smartphones, laptops, tablets and gaming consoles and gives you larger than life entertainment at your fingertips.

Designed specifically to work with mobile devices, this is a new type of mini projector that gives you 120 inches of high quality vivid displays and is literally a projector that turns your home, office or study into a mind blowing cinema. This is one of those amazingly cool gadgets for Christmas, your dad will absolutely love! 

 

Compatible with all HDMI/MHL devices, the CUBE removes the limitations on screen sizes that come with mobile devices. The CUBE comes with a fully flexible tripod (the RIF-6 mount will screw onto any standard tripod as well), remote control and it operates on rechargeable batteries.

 

Buy on Amazon

 


 

2. Merge VR – Virtual Reality Headset for iPhone and Android

The Merge VR Goggles turns your iOS or Android smartphone into an immersive virtual reality headset. It features dual touch inputs compatible with VR apps (so you don’t need a controller) and is amazingly comfortable with soft padding that molds to your face perfectly.

Let yourself be transported to another world and be immersed in a virtual reality world, all powered by your smart phone. There are hundreds of virtual reality experiences to choose from the VR portal, all of them compatible with your Merge VR Goggles.

 

Check out games, holiday hotspots, architects plans and lots more on your very own VR Goggles. Recommended for iPhone 6+, Galaxy S5+, HTC One M8+, LG G4+ and is on my list of crazy cool gadgets for Christmas.

 

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3. Devialet Phantom – cool gadgets for Christmas

I kid you not, this is expensive, but how often can you spoil your dad or the man in your life? This looks like a silver bullet but it is really the ultimate media unit and docking station, playing all of your music through wireless Bluetooth or WIFI.

This wireless speaker is truly revolutionary, creating the best ever quality sound with no distortion and no background noise, even at high volume – and it puts out 3000 watts. The Devialet Phantom has been called a master piece of technology and is designed to replace all existing audio systems.

You can actually feel the sound emitted by the Phantom and when you first hear songs you have known for years – you have a completely different experience – its like hearing the music for the very first time. Made in France by Devialet, the Phantom is a high-end audio system for music connoisseurs and seriously deserves to be on my list of awesome gadgets for Christmas.

 

Buy on Amazon

 


 

4. Samsung T3 Portable SSD – best gadgets for Christmas

This 1 TB External SSD is a Best Seller on Amazon and is rated high in online customer reviews. It is fully portable with an internal SSD level performance, super fast read-write speeds (up to 450 MB/s) and is shock resistant.

It also has secure encryption and is compatible with PCs, Macs and Android OS. The Samsung 1TB SSD external drive is light weight and compact, and easy to carry around, but still allows you to store a massive amount of data. 

This sleek SSD drive easily slips into a pocket or briefcase, so you can take all of your data with you, wherever you go. Read-write speeds are blazingly fast, letting you transfer data at ultra light speeds. Roughly the same size as a business card, the Samsung T3 External SSD is a fabulous gift for dads who need data-to-go.

 

Buy on Amazon

 


 

5. Tile Slim – Phone Finder. Wallet Finder. Item Finder

Have your dad ever lost his wallet or tablet and spend ages trying to find it at home? Well the TIle Slim was designed to stop this happening ever again. As slim as two credit cards, the TIle can easily slip into a wallet or be attached to a laptop, tablet or notebook.

All your dad needs to do is to download a free app onto his smartphone and whenever he loses his wallet or laptop again, the app will ring to tell him where it is hiding. Don’t worry if he can’t find his phone, because if he double taps the Tile itself on his laptop for example, and his phone will ring!

Compatible with Apple Devices iOS 8.1+ and Android devices 4.4+ (check website for more compatible devices).This is one of those awesome gadgets for Christmas that everyone wants! So give your poor old dad a hand and help him to keep track of his phone, wallet and laptop this year 🙂

 

Buy on Amazon

 


 

6. Garmin nuvi 2597LMT 5-inch GPS – affordable gadgets for Christmas

This 5″ portable GPS is the perfect gift for dads. It is easy to use, operates via Bluetooth, has a touchscreen interface and comes with lifetime maps and traffic. There is nothing more to pay once you purchase this GPS unit, all updates are free.

It provides detailed images of junctions along every route, so you know if there are delays or a lot of traffic ahead, displays restaurants, stores, hospitals and fuel along the route and updates itself as you drive. With up-to-the minute information on traffic problems, every drive will be stress free.

The Gamin nuvi comes loaded with detailed maps of North America and new maps can be downloaded 4 times a year, at no additional cost. It also has voice activation, so you can give the GPS unit commands, while keeping your hands on the wheel.  The Garmin nuvi 2597LMT is a fabulous and very affordable gadget for dads at Christmas.

 

Buy on Amazon

 


 

7. Rexing V1 2.4 inch LCD 1080p Wide Angle Dashboard Camera

With full 1920 x 1080 HF resolution, H.264 photography compression technology and a 170 degree wide angle lens, nothing is going to get past this bad boy. All videos are recorded onto an SD card and the recordings are looped – overwriting the oldest videos.

One of the awesome features of the Rexing dashcam is the Accident Auto Detection, which locks the recording in memory, so it isn’t overwritten (in case of an accident). You can also quickly save video action as you are driving, if you see something that you want to save and download to your PC later.

 

Don’t forget that the Rexing dashcam also has multi-language support, a car charger and USB power outlet, adhesive mounting and is very easy to install. As far as cool gadgets for Christmas go, this is pretty much up there 🙂

 

Buy on Amazon

 


 

8. Seek Thermal CompactXR Thermal Imager for Smartphones

The Seek CompactXR is a highly portable and durable thermal imaging camera that plugs directly into a smartphone and translates thermal energy into visible images on the phone. It has a narrow 20 degree field of vision and is ideal for outdoor use, detecting thermal heat up to 1800 feet away.

It can detect thermal heat anywhere from-40 to 626 degrees Fahrenheit and can track wildlife, predators and intruders easily. You also have a pocket sized, waterproof carrying case and it is perfect for hunters, campers, boaties and homeowners.

This is the most advanced thermal imaging camera designed for the smartphone and has a 206 x 156 thermal sensor, operates in total darkness and operates using a free mobile app. Any dad will be jumping for joy when they receive one of these cool gadgets for Christmas.

 

Buy on Amazon

 


 

9. Garmin Approach S2 GPS Golf Watch with Worldwide Courses

With preloaded worldwide courses (over 30,000 courses) and free lifetime updates, the Garmin Approach S2 is definitely on my list of the coolest gadgets for Christmas. It has a battery life of up to 3 weeks in watch mode and 8 hours in GPS mode and has an improved GPS tracker, so it is good under trees.

Both the avid golfer and the beginner will appreciate the precise yardages to the front, back and middle of the greens, which helps golfers to set up their swing. it calculates the precise distance for your shots from anywhere on the course and stores them so they can be printed or saved to a PC.

 

The Garmin Approach S2 has a sleek design, is comfortable to wear and is waterproof, durable and tough. if you have run out of ideas for dad this year, then you can’t go wrong helping him to play better golf!

 

Buy on Amazon

 


 

10. Star Wars Sphero BB-8 Droid – awesome gadgets for Christmas

If you want to bring some fun into your dad’s life, then the Star Wars Sphero BB-8 Droid will do just that. It is Bluetooth smart, recognizes and responds to your voice, learns and grows a serious attitude as you interact with it.

The batteries last for around 60 minutes, so there is plenty of time for fun and play with the BB-8 Droid and with its gyroscopic propulsion, it speeds around the floor like the wind. It is compatible with iOS and Android mobile devices and is app-enabled. 

With the BB-8 Droid, your dad can explore the galaxy, guiding the Droid himself or leave it to explore on its own. Its adaptive personality is truly revolutionary, and with its authentic movements and autonomous behavior, your dad can really let his hair down and have some serious fun – May the Force be with you 🙂

 

Buy on Amazon

 


 

To read more of my Featured Reviews, click here.

 

 

Top 10 NARROWEST Nursery Gliders for Small Spaces

 

Top 10 Nursery Gliders for small apartments - glider for small nursery

 

Every nursing mother needs a comfortable nursery glider

Without a doubt, every new mom and dad starts searching for a comfortable nursery glider after the first few night feeds. There is nothing quite like a really comfortable and relaxing small nursing chair for adding to the pleasure of holding your baby in your arms.

Many parents just re-purpose one of their old comfy chairs from another room in the house, but you will soon find out that your baby will usually settle easier to a rocking motion. A well made and comfortable small glider chair where you can relax and rest, definitely beats walking up and down rocking your baby at 3am in the morning!

One of the problems however, is that many nurseries are cramped for space. This is particularly relevant for parents who live in apartments, but even houses can have small nursery rooms. The problem now is that you need to look for a narrow glider for a small nursery, as well as a glider that is comfortable.

Beautiful baby sleeping - buy the best nanny cam for your family - glider for small nurseryWe can all appreciate that in a small nursery, trying to fit a cot, dresser and nursery glider all in the same room can sometimes be quite challenging.

This is particularly relevant when you have to troll through so many product descriptions looking for nursery gliders you like that are also narrow enough to fit into your space.

 

Top 10 narrowest nursery gliders for small nurseries

 

That’s why I have created this Top 10 list of the narrowest nursery gliders that are also affordable. So along with having a nanny cam in the nursery, you can have a really comfortable and stylish, but NARROW nursing glider.

So if you are looking for a small but comfortable glider chair, here are the best nursery gliders for a small nursery:

  1. Naomi Home Brisbane Glider and Ottoman (width = 23 inches)
  2. Stork Craft Hoop Glider and Ottoman (width = 25.75 inches)
  3. Windsor Nursery Glider and Ottoman (width = 25.8 inches)
  4. Stork Craft Custom Hoop Nursery Glider and Ottoman (width = 25.8 inches)
  5. Status Roma Glider and Nursing Ottoman (width = 25.8 inches)
  6. Baby Relax Nursery Glider and Ottoman (width = 26.6 inches)
  7. Dutailier Sleigh Glider-Multiposition Recliner and Ottoman (width = 27 inches)
  8. Coaster Deluxe Swivel Recliner Glider and Ottoman (width = 28.5 inches)
  9. DaVinci Olive Swivel Nursery Glider (width = 29 inches)
  10. Stork Craft Polka Dot Upholstered Swivel Glider (width = 29.9 inches)

 


 

1. Naomi Home Brisbane Glider and Ottoman

Naomi Home nursery gliders - glider for small nurseryThe Brisbane nursery glider by Naomi Home has the narrowest width I could find. At an external measurement of 23 inches, this small nursery glider is just under 2 feet wide, including the padding and arm rests.

So if you absolutely want the narrowest nursery glider ever, then this is going to be the best glider for your nursery. It comes in a dark or light colored timber frame and a number of different upholstery designs (100% polyurethane foam).

Of the different design options for this glider, the one that has a micro-suede upholstery in cream with an espresso finished timber is a Best Seller on Amazon (seen in the above image). 

  • Light or dark timber.
  • Different upholstery designs.
  • Narrowest width at 23 inches.
  • Comes with a separate and matching ottoman (this glides as well).
  • Some assembly is required.
  • Maximum weight capacity is 250 pounds.
  • Easy to clean and cushions are machine washable.
  • Very smooth and quiet gliding motion.
  • Slim nursing chair.

 

Points to note

Naomi Home Brisbane Glider for nursery - glider for small nurseryThis nursery glider doesn’t have a locking mechanism for when you want to stand up, but customers don’t find this to be a problem at all. It also doesn’t recline, it only glides back and forwards.

The height of the back from the seat to the top of the cushion is only about 24 inches, so this might not be the most comfortable nursery glider for tall people who want to rest their head.

Lastly, a few online customers have noted that if you lean too far to either side (maybe to pick up a toddler), this glider tends to tip over, which seems to make sense when you look at the overhang of the seat. 

 

Conclusion

The Naomi Home Nursery Glider is not ideal for tall people who want to rest their head against the back of the chair, it doesn’t recline and has a potential to tip sideways. On the positive side, as far as being a glider for a small nursery is concerned, customers really love its comfort, the ample side pockets and its price (less than $150).

 

Click Here for Today’s Price on Amazon

 


 

2. Stork Craft Hoop Glider and Ottoman

Stork Craft Hoop Glider for Nursery - narrowest nursery glidersStork Craft are a well-known brand and their Hoop Nursery Gliders have the second narrowest external width of 25.75 inches. So it’s just over 2 feet wide, but if you fill up the side pockets then it might be too wide for your space.

This nursery glider has a solid timber frame and microfiber upholstery, is easy to spot clean, but the cushions can only be hand washed, not placed in the washing machine.

The Stork Craft Hoop small nursery glider is a very traditional looking and very stylish piece of furniture for your nursery and will look just as good in your family room, when your babies are grown. 

  • Dark timber and light upholstery.
  • 25.75 inches external width.
  • Generous seating area, despite being narrow.
  • Padded arm cushions.
  • Cushions made from microfiber.
  • Metal, enclosed ball bearings for a smooth gliding motion.
  • Comes with an ottoman.
  • Solid wood construction.
  • Generous sized arm pockets.
  • Easy to spot clean and hand washable.
  • Maximum weight capacity is 250 pounds.
  • Some assembly needed.
  • Small upholstered nursing chair.
  • One year limited manufacturer’s warranty.

 

Points to note

Stork Craft Hoop Glider and Ottoman - glider for small nurseryThis glider does not recline, it only rocks gently backwards and forwards. Some of the online customer reviews have complained that the arms tend to break away or become loose after consistent usage and that the seat springs under the cushion tend to come loose as well.

It also doesn’t have a locking mechanism to stop the gliding motion, but so far most customers don’t have a problem with this.

 

Conclusion

If you want a glider for a small nursery hat is very narrow and fits into a small space, then the Stork Craft Hoop Nursery Gliders might be suitable for you.

However, some customers have said that after consistent use the arms and springs under the cushions have a tendency to come loose. Although, the vast majority of customers state that it is really comfortable, easy to assemble and is at a great price point (less than $150). 

 

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3. Windsor Nursery Glider and Ottoman

Windsor Glider and Ottoman - narrowest nursery gliders - glider for small nurseryThe Windsor Nursery Glider and Ottoman from Angel Line is the third narrowest glider on my list with an external width of 25.80 inches.

It is just about the same width as the Stork Craft Hoop Glider, is also a similar price (less than $150) and it is a Best Seller on Amazon.

The majority of customers really love this nursery glider saying that it is very comfortable, easy to assemble and it is a solid chair.

  • Best Seller on Amazon.
  • 25.80 inches at widest point. 
  • White timber and grey upholstery.
  • Generous seating.
  • Padded arms and side pockets.
  • Comes with a gliding ottoman included.
  • Removable chair cushions for easy spot cleaning.
  • Upholstery is 100% polyester.
  • Enclosed metal bearings for a smooth gliding motion.
  • Maximum weight 200 pounds.
  • Space saving rocking chair.
  • Requires some assembly.

 

Points to note

Windsor Glider and Ottoman - narrowest nursery gliders - glider for small nurseryThe Windsor Glider does not recline, it just rocks gently back and forwards. Also, apart from being one of the narrowest nursery gliders, it is also comfortable for tall people, as there is still a few inches left on the headrest for people who are around 5’11”.

If you are around 6’2” however, you will be pushing your luck if you want to rest your head while sitting upright in this glider.

It also doesn’t have a locking mechanism to stop the gliding motion when you want to stand up, but only a few customers have mentioned this as a problem. 

 

Conclusion

The WIndsor Nursery Glider & Ottoman from Angel Line is the third narrowest glider on my list and is an ideal glider for a small nursery. It is great for people who are around 6 ft tall – and shorter people are OK as well!. 

Most customers find that this nursery glider is very comfortable, easy to clean and assemble. Some however have found that the cushions are fairly thin and the springs break after a few months of consistent use.

 

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4. Stork Craft Custom Hoop Nursery Glider and Ottoman

Stork Craft Custom Hoop Glider and Ottoman - narrowest nursery gliders - glider for small nurseryComing in 4th on my list of the narrowest nursery gliders is this lovely chevron pattered chair by Stork Craft. It is very similar to the number 2 glider above – the Stork Craft Hoop Glider & Ottoman – and there is hardly any difference between the two gliders.

As far as the width is concerned, the width of the Stork Craft Hoop Nursery Glider & Ottoman is 25.75 inches and for the Custom version is 25.80 inches – hardly any difference at all.

The length and height of these two gliders is the same, as is their maximum carrying capacity (250 pounds), but the overall weight of the actual glider is slightly higher in the Custom Hoop Glider than the Hoop Glider above (43.0 pounds vs 45.5 pounds).

The major difference is that with the custom version you have a large selection of different upholstery patterns and timber colors, so you can really create your own custom nursery glider. The price of the custom version is around $30 more than the non-custom version (my number 2 above), but it is worth it to have so many design options in this chair.

  • Custom nursery glider.
  • 25.80 inches maximum external width.
  • Different upholstery colors and designs.
  • Different timber colors.
  • Metal, enclosed ball bearing for a smooth glide.
  • Spot cleanable only (covers are not removable).
  • Padded arm cushions.
  • Generous size side pockets.
  • Maximum carrying weight of 250 pounds.
  • Solid wood construction.
  • Space saving nursing chair.
  • Narrow rocking chair.
  • Requires some assembly.

 

Points to note

Stork Craft Custom Hoop Glider and Ottoman - narrowest nursery gliders - glider for small nurseryThe Stork Craft Custom Hoop Glider and Nursing Ottoman does not recline, so you can’t lean backwards, instead it has a smooth back and forwards rocking motion. It also doesn’t have a locking mechanism, but so far, customers don’t have a problem with this issue.

Some customers have mentioned that the seat cushion is too thin for them, so they have added an extra cushion. 

As far as suiting tall people, it seems that it is great for up to 5’11”, but once you hit 6′, you might have a problem sitting up straight and resting your head as well. 

 

Conclusion

This is a well priced nursery glider, that is the fourth narrowest on my list. You have lots of different upholstery and timber options with this glider, making it very easy to match your decor. The majority of customers find that this nursery glider is very comfortable, easy to assemble and glides smoothly and quietly.

If you want a narrow nursery glider that you can match to your decor, it is definitely worthwhile checking out the Stork Craft Custom Hoop Glider and Ottoman. 

 

Click Here for Today’s Price on Amazon

 


 

5. Status Roma Glider and Nursing Ottoman

Status Roma Nursery Glider and Ottoman - glider for small nurseryAt the half way mark we have the Status Roma Nursery Glider and Ottoman, made from solid wood with a maximum external width of 25.80 inches.

This lovely glider comes in three different color options – white timber and beige upholstery, cherry timber and beige upholstery or espresso timber and biege upholstery.

  • Timber framed nursery glider.
  • Maximum external width is 25.80 inches.
  • Padded arms for extra comfort.
  • Generous side pockets.
  • Polyester micro fiber blended fabric.
  • Spot cleanable.
  • Extra slide out stool with ottoman.
  • Solid wood timber frame.
  • Maximum weight capacity 250 pounds.
  • Small upholstered nursing chair.
  • Requires some assembly.

 

Points to note

Status Roma Nursery Glider and Ottoman - glider for small nurseryThe Status Roma Nursery Glider and Ottoman does not come with a locking mechanism, so you can’t stop the chair from gliding back and forth when you want to stand up, nor does it recline.

Regarding its comfort for both tall and short mums and dads, so far both seem to find this nursery glider more than comfortable.

Although I think that there isn’t really much difference in the height of the backrest in any of the gliders – they seem to have a standard height.

Also, a fair few customers have complained that this glider tends to break easily – the armrests tend to come apart from the back, the springs have popped and the wood has splintered. Most customers don’t have these problems, but it is certainly something to think about.

 

Conclusion

Whilst this is a lovely looking glider for a small nursery, it does seem to have a few durability hiccups. Customers have found that the wooden frame tends to break, particularly in the arms and after a few months it tends to start squeaking. It is priced at just under $150, so it is most probably worth your while reading the rest of my nursery glider reviews, before making your decision.

 

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FYI: Currently, this glider is unavailable, however there is another one that looks very similar to this one, but is 35cm wide. If you are after the look and comfort and you are not concerned about the width of the glider, then this alternate glider might be suitable for you. 

You can check this alternate glider out on Amazon here.

 


 

6. Baby Relax Nursery Glider and Ottoman

Narrowest Nursery Glider by Baby Relax - glider for small nurseryThe Baby Relax Glider and Ottoman (by Baby Relax), is the 6th glider on my list of narrowest gliders and comes in at 26.60 inches at it’s maximum width.

From the image, you can already see that this glider looks a little more sturdy and long lasting than the previous gliders and it is also a more traditional design as well.

  • Nursery Glider.
  • 26.60 inches at maximum width.
  • Smooth gliding motion.
  • Thickly padded and tufted seat back.
  • Padded seat, arms and ottoman for added luxury and comfort.
  • Rich espresso timber finish and chocolate upholstery.
  • Soft micro fiber fabric.
  • Spot clean only.
  • Maximum carrying capacity 225 pounds.
  • Small nursing chair.
  • Easy to assemble.

 

Points to note

Baby Relax Nursery Glider - glider for small nurseryThis Nursery Glider and Ottoman by Baby Relax doesn’t recline and doesn’t have a locking mechanism, but that is common with many of these gliders.

Some customers have had problems with the framework breaking after a few months and others say that it squeaks too much. Most customers don’t have a problem, but it is worth reading the reviews before you decide.

 

Conclusion

This Baby Relax Nursery Glider looks really high quality and sturdy, but customers still have problems with the frame breaking over time. It is a little more expensive than the previous 5 nursery gliders and since most customers are happy and it is one of the narrowest nursery gliders available, it is worth while considering.

 

Click Here for Today’s Price on Amazon

 


 

7. Dutailier Sleigh Glider-Multiposition Recliner and Ottoman

Dutailier Sleigh Nursery Glider - glider for small nurseryDutailier are a well know brand who have been designing high quality nursery gliders for more than 35 years in Canada. This is the first nursery glider on my list that actually glides and reclines, so if you want the narrowest glider and recliner, then this one is for you!

It also has a locking mechanism to stop the chair gliding when you want to stand up. This is a great safety feature for inquisitive fingers (or cat’s tails!), so you have just about everything in the Dutailier Sleigh Glider.

It’s maximum width is 27 inches, so it is 4 inches wider than the number 1 on my list above. 

  • Glider and recliner.
  • 27 inches at maximum width.
  • 100% polyester micro fiber upholstery.
  • Choice of upholstery colors.
  • Thick padded cushions and padded arm rests.
  • Cushion covers are machine washable.
  • Top quality steel ball bearings for a smooth glide.
  • Multi-position locking mechanism for added safety and comfort.
  • Fully adjustable backrest with 6 different  positions.
  • Hardwood frame in white.
  • Comes with matching ottoman.
  • Hand crafted in Canada.
  • Maximum weight capacity 250 pounds.
  • Space saving nursing chair.
  • Some assembly required.
  • 5 year warranty.

 

Points to note

Dutailier Sleigh Nursery Glider - glider for small nurseryThe Dutailier Sleigh Glider does not have any side pockets, so you can’t pop all of your odds and ends in the pockets.

It does however, glide when it is reclined, which makes it a fabulous option for your nursery. Checking all of the online reviews, it seems that tall people over 6′ find this glider very comfortable and many fall asleep in it.

One point to really note is that this is an expensive nursery glider – it is around the $500 mark, so for this price you really expect perfection.

Unfortunately, whilst most customers are more than happy, some have found that this glider squeaks, and that the recliner mechanism isn’t very smooth or easy to use when sitting in the chair.

 

Conclusion

The Dutailier Sleigh Nursery Glider is expensive, but it glides, rocks, has a locking mechanism and it fits tall people as well. So you have just about everything you need in a glider for a small nursery. So if you are looking for a good quality glider that is fairly narrow, this might be one to investigate.

 

Click Here for Today’s Price on Amazon

 


 

8. Coaster Deluxe Swivel Recliner Glider and Ottoman

Coaster Deluxe Swivel Nursery Glider - narrowest nursery glider - glider for small nurseryThis lovely looking Nursery Glider from Coaster Home Furnishings glides, swivels and reclines, it has a locking mechanism, a solid steel frame and the padded cushions on the armrests are bolted to the steel frame. 

At 8th on my list of the narrowest nursery gliders, this one comes in at 28.50 inches at its maximum point. It is a middle of the range price at between $200 and $250 depending on where you buy it.

  • Swivel glider and recliner.
  • 28.50 inch maximum width.
  • Steel frame.
  • Locking mechanism.
  • Comfortable seat back.
  • Black or beige leatherette upholstery.
  • Rounded front to seat for extra comfort.
  • Pillow arm anchored to steel frame.
  • Rounded base.
  • Comes with an ottoman that also glides.
  • Some assembly required.
  • 1 year Limited Warranty.

 

Points to note

Coaster Deluxe Swivel Glider and Ottoman - glider for small nurseryThe biggest problem with this lovely looking glider is that quite a few customers have found that the leatherette is quite thin and either wears away quickly or shreds after continuous use.

Another problem I noted is that some customers have said that the welding breaks and the chair becomes unusable, it starts to squeak after a few months and the reclining motion can stick.

On the other hand, most customers like this nursery glider, saying that it is easy to assemble, super comfortable and worth every dollar.

 

Conclusion

Reviews for the Coaster Deluxe Swivel Nursery Glider are mixed with most customers saying that it is comfortable and are happy with their purchase. Problems seem to be centred around the quality of the leatherette upholstery and the sturdiness of the steel frame – which being steel is surprising.

Given that this nursery glider is one of the narrowest on the market and looks fabulous, it is worthwhile checking the online reviews yourself, before you make your final decision.

 

Click Here for Today’s Price on Amazon

 


 

9. DaVinci Olive Swivel Nursery Glider

DaVinci Olive Upholstered Swivel Nursery Glider - glider for small nurseryThe DaVinci Olive Swivel Nursery Glider has been designed with a high back for extra head and neck support (great for tall moms and dads) and has a matching lumber pillow for extra back support as well. 

It has a maximum width of 29.00 inches, so it is a whole 6 inches wider than my number one narrowest nursery recliner.

One of the great features of this glider is that there is no assembly, so you just unpack it and you can use it immediately. 

The price in in the middle of the range at around $300, so it is a bit pricey, but it is also very comfortable and sturdy and has a maximum weight of 300 pounds. 

  • Upholstered Swivel Glider.
  • 29.00 inches at maximum width.
  • Maximum capacity is 300 pounds.
  • Comes in cream, light or dark grey.
  • 100% soft and durable heathered polyester fabric.
  • Upholstered ottoman included (does not glide).
  • High back with lumber pillow for extra lower back support.
  • 360 degree swivel motion.
  • Smooth gliding motion.
  • Spot clean only.
  • Metal base.
  • No assembly required.
  • 1 year warranty.

 

Points to note

DaVinci Olive Swivel Glider - glider for small nurseryThe DaVinci Nursery Glider does not recline and it does not have a locking mechanism, however, it does glide and swivel smoothly.

One of the complaints from some customers is that the ottoman doesn’t glide, but then other customers are happy as they can lean their weight onto the ottoman to steady themselves.

A few customers have also found that they need support for their back as the angle of the backrest (which can’t be changed) is a little too steep.

Another point is that it would be much better if the covers were removable and machine washable, instead of just spot cleaning them.

 

Conclusion

All in all, this might be number 9 on my list of narrowest nursery gliders, but it is number 1 for comfort! On my list of the Top 10 nursery gliders, this one has the most happy customers with no-one saying that it breaks or becomes noisy after consistent use. So unless you absolutely have to have a very narrow glider, this might have be the glider for your small nursery.

 

Click Here for Today’s Price on Amazon

 


 

10. Stork Craft Polka Dot Upholstered Swivel Glider

Stork Craft Polka Dot Upholstered Swivel Nursery Glider -glider for small nurseryAt 29.9 inches wide, this lovely, modern swivel nursery glider by Stork Craft comes in at number 10 on my Top 10 list of the narrowest nursery gliders. It has a 360 degree smooth swivel and a back and forth glide.

The ottoman is sold separately, so as this glider comes in at around the $300 mark, you will be up for less than $400 in total for both the glider and the ottoman. 

  • 360 degree swivel nursery glider.
  • 29.9 inches at widest point.
  • 100% polyester upholstery.
  • Ottoman sold separately.
  • Bonus lumber pillow.
  • 6 inch thick seat cushion.
  • Metal springs.
  • Eucalyptus hard wood frame with metal base.
  • Maximum weight limit 225 pounds.
  • Spot cleanable.
  • Requires minimal assembly.
  • 1 year limited manufacturer’s warranty.

 

Points to note

There are not a lot of online customer reviews for this glider yet, but so far one noticeable comment is that this is not a chair that you sink into. The cushions are fairly robust and firm (not lux as one customer stated), but when you are feeding sometimes you want that extra firmness in your chair.

Most customers also state that the additional lumber pillow is really too small to be effective and you will need to add your own cushion if you want extra back support.

 

Conclusion

The combination of glider and ottoman is on the pricey side, but so far customers find that this is a very comfortable, quiet and smooth nursery glider for a small nursery. 

 

Click Here for Today’s Price on Amazon

 




 

Nursery gliders FAQ

Here are some of the frequent questions asked about nursery gliders:

 

What are the best nursery gliders?

There are lots of great nursery gliders on the market, some are more expensive than others and some have different features. On this page I am only looking at narrow nursery glides, because many people just don’t have enough space to fit in regular size armchairs or gliders.

With my Top 10 guide to hand, you will have no problem finding the best narrowest nursery gliders, for your home – making your selection so much easier and stress free.

 

Who sells nursery gliders?

There are plenty of stores that sell nursery gliders, but I have focused on Amazon, because they are a well known company and they have a good customer service. They also have a 30 day no-questions asked returns policy on all of their products.

You can buy some of the best named brands on Amazon, so it just makes sense to go with someone you know and trust. So if you are wondering where to buy nursery gliders – then read my reviews and click on the links to learn more about your selection.

 

Why are nursery gliders so expensive?

It’s like everything we buy – you get what you pay for. In regards to nursery gliders, you will find that the more high quality and sturdy nursery gliders and rockers cost more money. You can usually tell the quality of a nursery glider, not simply by its cost (because high prices do not necessarily equal high quality), but by reading the online customer reviews.

Stork Craft Hoop Glider - narrowest nursery glidersThe lower priced nursery gliders (less than say $150) don’t have the same lifetime and resilience as many of the higher priced gliders. You tend to notice in the customer reviews that they say that the springs came loose or the arm rest padding was too thin, it tips over or it simply broke after a few months.

Obviously, as with any product you will always find these type of comments. However, you don’t want to see lots of negative comments, instead you want at least 75% to 80% of the comments to be very positive (4 or 5 stars) with the remainder spit between 1, 2  or 3 stars.

There is nothing wrong with the lower priced nursery gliders and for many us of us – these are the best ones for our budget. Since you will be sitting in your glider for many hours over the coming months, just make sure that online customers say that the glider you select is really comfortable and that it has mostly positive reviews.

In my Top 10 list of the narrowest nursery gliders, I have selected the narrowest gliders, but I have also highlighted the positives and negatives for each glider. This should help you to narrow down your search – pun intended 🙂

I think I went a bit off track there! So to answer the question “why are nursery gliders so expensive” – it comes down to quality, durability and features. 

 

 


 

To read more of my featured articles, click here.

 

 

Quick and Easy Home Invasion Prevention Strategies

Protect your Family with a DIY Home Invasion Prevention Strategy

 

Quick and Easy Home Invasion Prevention Strategies

When your first priority is protecting your family, your mind invariably turns to home invasion prevention and the best strategies for keeping your family safe.

We have all heard of home invasions across the country, which could possibly have been prevented if circumstances were different. A quick search of the internet is all we need to do to understand the prevalence of home invasions.

 


 

Father of six killed in Philadelphia home invasion

home invasion prevention - policeFor example, just a few days ago a father of six was killed during a home invasion in Philadelphia. Two intruders entered the home at 1am in the morning through a rear kitchen window, demanding money.

When the father of six didn’t move fast enough, he was killed with a shotgun blast, while his six children aged 5 to 13 years of age where in the home – the 13 year old saw his father being killed and the wife is in a critical condition.

In L.A. the previous day, a couple and a relative were tied up, beaten and robbed in an early morning home invasion. This occurred around 4am in the morning when the male occupant went to investigate noises outside and was forced back inside the home by four men in ski masks with guns. The couple’s three children were in the home at the time of the home invasion.

Richardson Police in Texas have warned residents to be careful following two recent home invasions. In both instances, there were three or four armed men who held the families at gunpoint, while they robbed their homes. One occurred during the daylight and the other in a gated community.

Another home invasion and shooting in Connecticut, left a male home owner with gunshot wounds to his shoulder, and a father of three was shot and killed during a home invasion in Houston, while his children were in the house.

All of these violent home invasions took place in the last two months (July and August 2016) and there will be plenty more home invasion statistics if we look for them. So you can see why home invasion prevention strategies are vital to protecting your family and your home.

 


 

Parents leave children home alone after school

Motorola Blink1 nanny cam reviewRecent research by BLINK – who are currently promoting their BLINK Security Camera System, which is wireless and offers motion detection, HD video and free cloud storage – has revealed that nearly 60% of parents leave their children home alone when they arrive home from school.

One of the parents concerns was the likelihood of someone invading their home when their children were unsupervised and that their children could be harmed during this home invasion.

Not being home with your children, because of work commitments must be one of a parent’s biggest concerns, followed closely by the guilt if anything did happen when you were not there to protect your family. This is where home invasion prevention strategies can come in to protect your family when you can’t be there yourself.

 


 

Creating your own DIY Home Invasion Prevention Strategy

Below you will find three very affordable strategies that will help you to protect your family at home, even if you can’t be there all the time. 

 

 

1. Ring Wi-Fi Enabled Video Doorbell

Ring Wi-Fi Enbaled Video DoorbellSee and speak with anyone who presses your doorbell on your smartphone or tablet, whether you are in the house, at work or out shopping. Receive alerts and live video that is triggered by motion outside your front door or by someone ringing your doorbell.

With built-in night vision, easy mounting and fast syncing with your Wi-Fi and mobile devices you will have your home security sorted in minutes!

Read my FULL RING DOORBELL Review HERE.

 

2. Nest Cam Security Camera

Nest Cam Security Camera - Nanny CamThis is a lovely sleek looking security camera with 2-way communication, IR night vision, digital zoom (x8), live video streaming, bank level encryption, sound and motion alerts, cloud storage, 3 different mounting options and is easy to set up. 

If a home invasion does occur, you will receive an instant notification on your smartphone or tablet and can speak to them directly, telling them you are calling the police. 

Read my FULL NEST CAM SECURITY CAMERA Review HERE.

 

3. Canary All-in-One Home Security Device

Canary - Home Security Device - whiteWith HD video and audio, auto arm/disarm and instant push notifications if anyone breaks into your home, this is a fairly inexpensive home security system.

You even have a  90+ db siren that you can turn on manually if someone does break into your home and fast connections to police and emergency services. 

Read my FULL CANARY HOME SECURITY  Review HERE.

 


 

To read more of my nanny cam reviews, click here.

 

 

Top 10 Best Smart Home Gadgets

 

Smart Home Technology

 

Smart Home Gadgets for the Future

There are some really impressive Smart Home Gadgets on the market, the problem is that most of us don’t know about them. We also don’t know how to incorporate them into our homes in an affordable and an easy way.

So let’s take a look at 10 Smart Home Gadgets that you can easily add to your home and will make you look like Bill Gates to all of your friends!

  1. iGrill Bluetooth Thermometer
  2. Amazon Echo
  3. WIFI Smart Plug with Energy Monitoring
  4. Sensei WIFI Programmable Thermostat
  5. Liftmaster MyQ WIFI Garage Door Controller
  6. Ring WIFI Enabled Video Doorbell
  7. Nest WIFI Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm
  8. Rachio WIFI Smart Sprinkler Controller
  9. Mixberry Bluetooth Smart LED Light Bulb
  10. WIFI Enabled Wemo Light Switch

 


 

1. iGrill2 Bluetooth Thermometer

smart home gadgets - iGrill2 Bluetooth ThermometerGrill like a pro with the iGrill2 Bluetooth thermometer. How cool is it to check the temperature of your meat on the BBQ or in the smoker using your smartphone?

Imagine having a beer on the porch, mingling with your guests and then checking your smartphone and telling everyone that dinner is ready!

Well, the iGrill2 lets you do just that with two temperature probes so you can keep an eye on the temperatures of different foods on your grill or smoker at the same time.

  • 2 professional temperature probes.
  • Custom or preset temperature alarms.
  • 150 foot Bluetooth range.
  • 200 hour battery life.
  • Magnetic mounting on grill or smoker.
  • Illuminated display.
  • Compatible with iOS and Android devices.

Just download the free app, set the desired temperatures, activate the alarm and then you can go about your business until the alarm sounds to tell you that your food is cooked.

The iGrill2 makes the perfect gift for the grill enthusiast in your life.

Check out today’s price on Amazon

 


 

2. Amazon Echo

Amzon Echo - smart home gadgetsTouted as a voice activated virtual assistant, the Echo is one of Amazon’s best selling Smart Home Gadgets and has nearly 40,000 online reviews.

The list of what Alexa (Echo’s artificial intelligence) can do is growing daily as new functions are continually being added to its repertoire. The gist of Echo is that it is connected to your WIFI in your home and is voice activated.

  • Streams music from Prime, Pandora, Spotify and other internet radio services.
  • Steams and read the news to you (NPR or ESPN) and can even curate the news based on your preferences.
  • Let’s you know the weather and traffic updates.
  • Set timers and alarms in connected appliances and devices.
  • Connects with lights, thermostats, doorbells and home security to name a few.
  • Provides answers to questions and can even hold a conversation.
  • Orders a pizza, books a taxi and wakes you up in the morning.
  • Compatible WeMo, Philips Hue, Samsung SmartThings, Wink, Insteon, Nest, and ecobee smart home devices.

I am not kidding, the Echo can instantly  turn your home into a Smart Home and its abilities just keep expanding all the time. 

 

Amzon Echo - smart home gadgets 

Check out today’s price on Amazon

 


 

3. WIFI Smart Plug with Energy Monitoring

Smart plug - smart home gadgetsHow cool is this plug? You can monitor the energy usage of any device that is plugged into it and turn them on or off from anywhere, using your mobile device.

Did you forget to turn the coffee machine off when you left home this morning? No worries, because you can simply open the app on your smartphone and switch it off from work.

You can even switch your coffee pot, lights and TV on when you leave work, so that your home looks occupied and everything is ready when you walk through the door.

Smart plug This saves you a lot of worry and stress about forgetting to turn appliances off when you leave the house and also lets people think that someone is at home as well.

Don’t forget all the money you will save on your energy bills, because you can schedule the timing for all of your lights and appliances.

  • Monitor energy usage and save money on your bills.
  • Turn electrical devices on and off from anywhere on your smartphone.
  • Use the Away Mode to make it look like you are at home.
  • Set timers and create schedules for your devices.
  • Works with Alexa (Amazon Echo).

All you need to do is to download the Kasa app to your mobile device and after it connects to your WIFI, you are good to go. 

Check out today’s price on Amazon

 


 

4. Sensi WIFI Programmable Thermostat

Sensi Programmable ThermostatMost of us have a thermostat in our homes, whether its for the gas, oil, heat pump or radiant heat systems.

The Sensi WIFI Programmable Thermostat replaces your old thermostat, giving you the ability to set, change and schedule hot or cooling temperatures in your home from anywhere in the world.

Scheduling your heating and A/C helps you to save money on your heating bills and gives you a lovely warm home when you arrive from work. This WIFI thermostat works with Alexa for voice control (Amazon Echo) and can be installed with your existing wiring.

  • Installed in 15 minutes or less.
  • Works with most heating and cooling systems in the USA and Canada.
  • Indoor humidity sensor.
  • Local weather information.
  • Low profile design.
  • Secure cloud network.
  • Works with duel fuel systems
  • 7 day scheduling.
  • Works with Alexa and Wink Smart platforms.
  • Up to 4 stages of heating and 2 stages of cooling.
  • Does not need a common wire for dual fuel systems.
  • Does require a common wire for cool only or heat only systems.
  • Dedicated support team 7 days a week.

 

Check out today’s price on Amazon

 


 

5. Liftmaster MyQ WIFI Garage Door Controller

Liftmaster MyQ WIFI Garage Door ControllerAutomatic garage door openers are two a penny, but with this WIFI controller you can open and close your garage door anywhere, at anytime.

The Liftmaster MyQ WIFI Garage Door Controller allows you to use your smartphone to control your garage doors and is one of the most useful automated Smart Home Gadgets on my list.

So if you forget to close the garage doors on your way out, you can keep your home secure on the way to work using your smartphone. You can also open the garage door when you are work, if a guest turns up unexpectedly.

  • Controls up to 2 garage doors at once (requires additional door sensor).
  • Can be used with most garage door opener brands and gates.
  • Requires WIFI.
  • Easy to install and very affordable.
  • Monitor the opening and closing of your garage door.
  • Set custom alerts.

Check out today’s price on Amazon

 


 

6. Ring WIFI Enabled Video Doorbell

Ring Wi-Fi Enabled Video Doorbell - home securityWhen someone rings the doorbell, its great to be able to actually see who is at your door, whether you are in the house or the garden. You can even set the alarm system, so if you are away from your home, you can still see who is at your door.

With a built in motion detector and a 30 foot detection range, you can instantly see who is approaching your home, and view the recorded video later if needed.

The Ring WIFI Enabled Video Doorbell gives you added peace of mind and security for your home and your family, something that is important in today’s world.

  • Alerts and live video streaming to your smartphone.
  • Built in night vision.
  • HD images.
  • Motion sensor.
  • Easy to set up and sync with your WIFI.
  • Dual powered – use the rechargeable battery or wire it in to your home.
  • Lifetime purchase protection.

 

Check out today’s price on Amazon

 


 

7. Nest WIFI Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide DetectorKeeping your family and your home safe and protected is important for all of us and this WIFI enabled smoke and carbon monoxide alarm sends a voice alert to your smartphone if the alarm goes off or the batteries run low (you can hard wire the detector as well).

When it comes to Smart Home Gadgets, this is one of the best on the market.

That’s because with the Nest WIFI Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm, once the alarm has been activated you can even quiet the alarm from your smartphone. Knowing if there is a problem at home, when you are at work is better than finding out when you arrive home and you can even be alerted if the toast is burning in the kitchen, when you are in the family room.

  • 10 year carbon monoxide sensor.
  • Heat sensor.
  • Humidity sensor.
  • Carbon monoxide sensor.
  • Occupancy sensor.
  • Ambient light sensor.
  • Industrial grade smoke detector.
  • Tests itself automatically.
  • Split spectrum sensor locates both slow and fast burning fires.
  • WIFI alerts on your smartphone.
  • Silence the alarm using your smartphone.
  • Easy to install.
  • Attaches to a wall or ceiling.

 

Check out today’s price on Amazon

 


 

8. Rachio WIFI Smart Sprinkler Controller

Rachio WIFI Smart Sprinkle SystemWith the Rachio WIFI Smart Sprinkler Controller, you have complete control over your sprinkling system, regardless of whether you are at home or on holiday overseas.

The Rachio WIFI Smart Sprinkler System even schedules itself, based on past, present and future weather patterns, taking into account real-time weather forecasts. This is the ideal way to keep your garden looking healthy and beautiful, even when you are away on holiday. 

You also save money because your garden is only watered when the weather demands it. The Rachio Sprinkle Controller works with the Nest platform and integrates with other top tier home automation systems for expanded functionality (Wink, Control4, Nexia, Alexa).

  • Save water and keep your garden healthy with real-time automatic scheduling.
  • Access the system on your smartphone, anywhere in the world.
  • Automatically skips watering if it has recently rained.
  • Save money with automated sprinkling.
  • Easy installation. up and running in 30 minutes.
  • Two options – up to 8 zones or 16 zones.
  • Requires a WIFI connection.
  • Made in the USA.

 

Check out today’s price on Amazon

 


 

9. Bluetooth Smart LED Light Bulb by Mixberry

Bluetooth Smart LED Light Bulb by MixberryHave you ever wanted unlimited colour options with your home lighting? Well, with the Mixberry Bluetooth Smart LED Light Bulb, you have access to over 16 million different colours and shades, so you will always find a colour to suit your mood.

You can control the colour of the lights from your smartphone and the LED bulb will even sync its colours to the beat of your music. There is a sleep timer and an alarm feature as well, so you can set your light to dim and switch off and then turn back on at a set time.

This Smart Home Gadget is ideal for parties, mood setting or just because you have always wanted to change the colour of your lights with your smartphone!

  • Bluetooth LED bulb with unlimited colour options.
  • Free app on your smartphone.
  • Control the colour of your lights at home.
  • Set dimming options and set alarms.
  • Connect up to 12 Mixberry Smart Bulbs and control them individual or as a group.
  • Easy to install – simply screw in the light bulb and download the app.
  • Similar light to a 60W Bulb.
  • Energy efficient.
  • 1 year warranty.

 

Check out today’s price on Amazon

 


 

10. WIFI Enabled Wemo Light Switch

WIFI Enabled Wemo Light SwitchReplace your old light switches with a WIFI enabled switch and control your lights and other light or ceiling appliances from anywhere in the world, all on your smartphone.

With one of these Smart Home Gadgets you can schedule the internal or external lights to come on before you arrive home, set the ceiling fans to switch on if a specific temperature is reached and sync the on and off times to the sunset and sunrise.

  • Replaces your normal light switches.
  • Easy to install – perfect for DIY.
  • Create on and off schedules.
  • Use the Away Mode to keep your home safe.
  • Monitor your energy usage.
  • Works with Alexa and Nest platforms.
  • No subscriptions required.
  • Compatible with Apple iOS 8 or higher and Android 4.1 or higher.

 

Check out today’s price on Amazon

 


 

Read more of my nanny cam reviews here.

Top 10 Baby Video Monitors

Top 10 Baby Video Monitors

 

My Top 10 Baby Video Monitors

A baby video monitor is such a useful and parent friendly device that everyone with young children should have one in their home. You will be surprised at how less stressed out you will feel when you can keep an eye on your baby, toddler or young children from anywhere in your home, day or night.

One of the important points that you need to remember is that a baby monitor is meant to be used at home and within a certain range of the base unit. It is not WiFi capable and you cannot use your smart phone to access live feeds remotely.

When you purchase a baby monitor you receive a camera unit and a hand held parent monitor with a screen, where you can view live video streams in your home.

On the other hand, with a nanny cam you receive a WiFi capable security camera, which you need to configure with your home WiFi and your smartphone. You can then access your live video feeds from anywhere in the world.

Let’s take a look at my Top10 baby video monitors.

 


 

1. Samsung SEW 3043W Baby Video Monitor

Samsung SEW 3043W baby video monitorThis sturdy little Samsung baby video monitor has 2 way communication, pan and tilt, IR night time vision and a zoom facility.

It also has a soft nightlight that can be turned off, 4 pre-programmed lullabies and a feed timer alert.

With a long 900 ft range, you can be just about anywhere in your home and still receive good reception from the nursery. There is only a 4 hour battery in the handheld unit, but that is for continuous use, but if you switch it to standby mode, then you will still be alerted when your baby wakes and it will extend the life of your batteries.

Customers love the crystal clear images of this Samsung baby monitor and the large 5″ touch screen on the parent’s handheld unit as well.

Read my full review here.

 


 

2. Infant Optics DXR-8 baby monitor

DXR-8 Infant Optics Baby MonitorWith 2 way communication, ambient temperature sensor, IR night time vision, pan and tilt, an optical zoom and a 700 ft range, the Infant Optics DXR-8 has everything you need in a great little baby monitor.

One of the great features of the Infant Optics DXR-8 is the interchangeable lenses, because it comes with a normal lens and a zoom lens, but you can also purchase a separate wide angle lens, even though it comes with a pan and tilt feature. 

You can also switch the monitor over to standby mode, helping to save the battery, but there is only a 10 hour standby battery life with the DXR-8, which is shorter than many of the other baby monitors. On the other hand, the Infant Optics DXR-8 has just about the best and clearest images out of all of the monitors, so its a trade off between battery life and the clarity of the images.

Customers love everything about this little baby monitor, especially the amazingly clear images and how easy it is to use. FYI: This baby monitor does not play lullabies.

Read my full review here.

 


 

3. Philips DECT Baby Video Monitor

Philips Avent DECT Baby MonitorThe Philips Avent DECT Baby Monitor is a lovely sleek looking combination with 2 way communication, a temperature sensor, feed timer, night light and lullabies.

It also has a long 18 hour battery life for the handheld parent unit and a great 2 year warranty.

DECT technology is a super innovation because it prevents other mobile devices interfering with your reception. And you have FULL data encryption giving you a completely secure home network and a private connection in your home.This means that no-one can hack into your network and view your videos.

The few negatives are that the DECT baby monitor only has a very small 1.5″ monitor screen, and it doesn’t have IR night time vision or pan & tilt. However, customers still love this baby monitor and it sells well.

Read my full review here.

 


 

4. Levana Jena Baby Video Monitor

levana jena digital baby video monitor with 2.4 displayThe Levana Jena baby monitor has 2 way communication, IR night time vision, an ambient temperature sensor, soothing night light and a 12 hour standby battery life in the parent’s unit.

You also have 5 preset lullabies and a 500 ft range around the house.

There is also a zoom feature, so you can take a closer look at your little one when you are in another room of your house.

Customers like the clear images on the hand held monitor, the excellent signal strength and the 5 lullabies that they can play remotely to calm their little one when they are unsettled. This is a very affordable baby monitor that is popular with parents.

Read my full review here.

 


 

5. Timeflys AudioBaby Video Monitor

Timeflys Video Baby MonitorThis lovely little baby video monitor has 2 way communication, pan & tilt, x2 zoom, an ambient temperature sensor, Mp3 lullaby player and a 1000ft operating range. 

You also have a 12 hour battery life on standby mode, IR night time vision,a brightness setting for the display and a 1 year warranty. The MP3 player is a great feature because you can load your own lullabies, songs or even stories and play them remotely anywhere within the large operating range.

The VOX feature gives you an extended battery life, because it turns off the display on the monitor when it hasn’t sensed any sound for 50 seconds and comes back on automatically when it does detect sound.

This baby monitor is fairly new on the market, so there are not a lot of customers reviews available online. However, the pan & tilt feature is very popular, as is the MP3 player, whilst some customers question the quality of the video images and had problems with the nit not working properly after a few months.

Read my full review here.

 


 

6. Levana Ayden Baby Video Monitor

Levana Baby Monitor (Ayden) best baby video monitorThis cute looking baby monitor has everything you need to keep an eye on your baby at home.

You have 2 way communication, so you can chat to your baby or toddler from anywhere in your home (it has a 750 ft range) and a zoom facility, so you can take a closer look at them when they are awake or sleeping.

Checking on your little one at night is no problem, because you have crystal clear IR night time vision, saving you the trouble of going to the nursery to check on them every two minutes. You also have a temperature sensor which lets you know if the temperature in the nursery is outside of your set range, a feature which some parents find invaluable.

There is also a long 48 hour battery for the handheld unit (in standby mode), so you don’t have to keep recharging the monitor all the time. The Levana Ayden baby video monitor also plays 3 preset lullabies, which you can activate remotely to calm you baby or toddler while you make your way to the nursery.

Customers love the size of the monitor on the handheld parent unit, the crystal clear images (during the day and night) and the great sound quality.

Read my full review here.

 


 

7. Infant Optics DXR-5 Baby Monitor

Infant Optics DXR-5 baby monitorThe Infant Optics DXR-5 doesn’t have all of the features of the DXR-8, so it is a much more basic model.

However, what it does have, it does well with crystal clear images (although the screen is only 2.4″), IR night time vision and a large 800ft operating range.

You also have a VOX mode, so the handheld unit goes into standby when no sound has been detected for 3 minutes, extending the life of the battery (which is only 3 to 4 hours if used continuously).

There is also an audio mute function, where you can turn the sound off, keeping the video monitor on at all times and when a sound is detected the audio function turns back on again. 

Customers like the clear images and how easy this baby monitor is to set up, but many of the reviews are mixed. So make sure to read the customers reviews on Amazon before deciding on this baby monitor. I have kept it in my Top 10 because it is a simple baby monitor with very helpful customer service.

FYI: This baby monitor does not play lullabies.

Read my full review here.

 


 

8. Summer Infant Wide View Baby Video Monitor

Summer Infant In View Baby MonitorThis Summer Infant wide screen baby monitor has a HUGE 5″ monitor on the parent’s handheld unit, which is a great selling point.

It also has 2-way communication, IR night time vision, a wide angle viewing angle,a x2 zoom and a 600ft operating range.

The battery life isn’t great, at only 6 hours in continuous use, but the standby mode will substantially increase this to the point that you shouldn’t have to recharge the unit more than once a day.

One of the nice features of this baby monitor is the LED sound lights that display in green, amber or red, depending on the volume of your baby’s cries. When you use this feature you can still keep an eye on your baby, even in a noisy room where it might be difficult to hear your little one’s cry’s over the ambient noise level. 

Customers love the large touchscreen, but some customers have problems with the battery life and maintaining connectivity in their home. FYI: This baby monitor does not play lullabies.

Read my full review here.

 


 

9. Levana Astra Baby Video Monitor

Levana Baby Monitor (Astra) long range baby monitorThe Levana Astra baby monitor has 2 way communication, pan and tilt, IR night time vision, a zoom feature, plays 3 preset lullabies and has a 750 ft range.

These are great features because you can move the camera around remotely to follow your little one around the room if they are crawling or toddling and zoom in for a closer look, all while making your way to the nursery.

An additional feature on this baby monitor is that you can lock the hand held parent’s unit so that little fingers can’t change your settings, which is very useful when you little one is toddling.

Customers like the video quality and the long operating range of this baby monitor, but some find that the LED lights can be annoying at night, so they turn it face down on their bed stand.

Read my full review here.

 


 

10. Levana Sophia Baby Video Monitor

Levana Sophia baby video monitorThe Levana Sophia has lots of great features that help you to take care of your little one at home, without worrying about leaving them alone in the nursery.

You have 2 way communication, IR night time vision, an ambient temperature sensor and a 500 ft range.

The battery in the parent’s unit lasts for up to 48 hours in standby mode (6 hours in continuous mode), which turns off the video monitor until your baby cries and then it turns itself back on, saving your battery time.

Customers love the size of the monitor screen on the handheld unit and the crystal clear images. They also find that reception is usually very good at home with no interference from other devices. FYI: This baby monitor does not play lullabies.

Read my full review here.

 


 

Baby monitor table comparisons

 

To read more of my baby monitor reviews, click here.

Mothers Day Gift Guide – Top 10 Picks

 

Top 10 Mothers Day Gifts - best gifts for mom

 

Mothers Day Gift Guide – My Top 10 Picks

With Mothers Day fast approaching, it can be difficult knowing what to buy for your mom, partner or wife that isn’t simply chocolates, perfume or flowers.

It is not always easy coming up with Mother’s Day gift ideas that are practical and whilst all three of these are fabulous gifts and are always well received, sometimes you just want to give a gift that is different.

So with my Mothers Day Gift Guide on hand, you can skim down my top 10 picks and find a really awesome and practical gift for your mom or partner on Mothers Day this year.

 


 

1. The Memory Journalists MJ Selfie Stick

The Memory Journalists MJ Selfie Stick - mothers day gift ideasEvery mom needs a selfie stick for those happy moments in their life and the Memory Journalists MJ Selfie Stick is the king of selfie sticks.

This is a professional selfie stick, which easily fits into a pocket or handbag and is the smallest on the market.

The extendable pole reaches a massive 34″ and it is all in one piece, so your mom or partner won’t lose any of the pieces. There is a 270 degree adjustable head, so your mom will always find the best angle for her selfie or group photo and it has a Bluetooth remote shutter for easy use.

The MJ Selfie Stick is compatible with iPhone 5+ and with Android phones (but not Windows phones) and the lithium battery recharges in one hour from any USB charger. It is made from stainless steel, so it is strong and durable and won’t snap from over use!

When you are searching for last minute Mothers Day gift ideas, the MJ Selfie Stick is the perfect solution.

 


 

2. Tile (Gen 2) – Phone Finder. Key Finder. Item Finder

Tile (Gen 2) - Key Finder - last minute mothers day giftsThe Tile is a tiny Bluetooth tracker that along with an easy to use app, helps you to find your keys, phones, wallets, luggage, remote controls and anything else you tend to lose frequently, in a matter of seconds.

All you need to do is to attach one of the tracking tiles to the item and then search for it using the app. Just imagine how easy it will be to find that lost remote or your car keys that the kids were playing with last night!

The tiles are waterproof and the small battery is sealed inside the tile, so it is safe from prying fingers. You can attach one of the small tiles to anything you want and easily keep track of where it is at any time. 

Tile (Gen 2) - mothers day present ideasThe Tile Finder has a 100 ft range, so whenever you are within that range you can locate the lost item by sound or by seeing it on a map on your phone or the app will send you a 90 decibel alert, which can be easily heard even if the item is buried down the back of the sofa.

The battery lasts for around one year, before the tile needs to be replaced and they will save you so much stress and frustration trying to locate lost items at home. When the tiles need to be replaced you can purchase replacements at a discounted price.

So if you are wracking your brains for the perfect gift ideas for your mom or partner this year, then check out the TIle Finder and help your mom find her keys easily.

 


 

3. Garmin nüvi 2597LMT 5-Inch Bluetooth Portable Vehicle GPS

Garmin nüvi 2597LMT 5-Inch Bluetooth Portable Vehicle GPS - what to get for Mothers DayThis easy to use, dual orientation GPS has a touchscreen interface, crystal clear maps and the traffic feature does not require a subscription.

With a bright 5.0″ screen, your mom can use the GPS both horizontally and vertically, so she always has the right angle when driving.

You have preloaded maps of North America and you can subscribe for lifetime map updates, making sure that all of your routes are up to date. Traffic alerts appear to the side of the map and give alerts about possible delays, how long you might be delayed and alternate routes. 

The Garmin nüvi 2597LMT can even find your mom the fastest route from A to B, so she has no more excuses to be late! This top of the line GPS also has voice activation, so your mom can actually speak to the GPS and it will respond, keeping her hands safely on the wheel at all times.

Your mom can even sync her phone with the GPS for hands-free calling, leaving her phone safely in her handbag and her eyes on the road. There are so many other great features of the Garmin GPS that make this one of the best gifts for Mothers Day ever! 

 


 

4. Water Temperature Controlled Color Changing Shower-Head

DreamSpa All Chrome Water Temperature Controlled Color Changing 5-Setting LED Shower-Head - good gifts for mothers dayThe DreamSpa chrome shower head is the worlds most advanced shower head and controls indicates the water temperature of the shower.

This is a funky Mother’s Day gift that has the added safety features of warning when the water is too hot and is sure to please everyone in the family.

You have a solid, stainless steel 5.25″ extra large shower head with 5 different angle settings for comfort and ease of use. Then you have the 3 color changing water temperature sensors, which reflect the temperature of the water and are powered by running water, so they don’t need batteries.

A blue color is for cool water (35C), green for warm water (35-42C), red for hot water (43-50C) and flashing red for water that is above 50C. The LED lights have a long life of 100,000 hours and should last for 10 years with daily use.

DreamSpa Water Temperature Controlled Color Changing Shower Head - last minute mothers day giftsYou also have 5 different settings for the spray – power rain, pulsating massage, hydro-mist, economy rain and a water saving setting. 

The DreamSpa shower head can be connected quickly and easily to your existing standard overhead shower arm without using any tools and comes with a one year warranty. 

This is a lovely and practical gift for Mother’s Day this year.

 


 

5. Amazon Echo

Amazon Echo - best gifts for mothers dayThe Amazon Echo has sold so fast that they are waiting for more stock to come in on May 14th.

If you haven’t heard of the Amazon Echo then you are in for a treat, because this is a perfect last minute Mothers Day gift that your mom or partner will absolutely love!

So the Amazon Echo plays all of your mom’s music from Prime, Spotify, Pandora, iHeartRadio, TuneIn and lots more platforms and does this without buttons or switches, but with the sound of your mom’s voice. This is extraordinary sound machine that immerses your mom in 360 degree sound and seriously high-tech and innovative in its design.

Your mom can play all of her favorite tunes hands-free with just voice control and it can hear her voice from across the room. The Amazon Echo will answer questions, read audio books and the news or report the weather and traffic, provide sports scores and lots more using the Alex Voice Service.

Your mom can even control the lights and thermostats in the house using compatible WeMo, Philips Hue and Samsung SmartThings apps. 

If your mom loves music and gadget, then this is the perfect solution to your worry about what to get your mom for Mothers Day. So if you want to order the Amazon Echo for May 14th, you had better be quick before this next batch sells out!

 


 

6. Fitbit Charge HR Wireless Activity Wristband

Fitbit Charge HR Wireless Activity Wristband - gift ideas for mothers dayIf you are looking for a last minute Mothers Day gift, you can’t go wrong with the Fitbit Charge.

This is one of the most popular personal activity trackers on the market and tracks your mom’s workouts, heart rate, distances walked or jogged, her calories burnt and the floors she has climbed.

This high performance wristband automatically records heart rate and activities and syncs them to your mom’s smartphone and computer, so she can monitor her progress and keep motivated.

The Fitbit Charge activity tracker helps your mom or partner to reach her targets every day and maximize the time she spends training or just walking for exercise. It even monitors her when she sleeps, so she knows how often she wakes at night and she can set a silent vibrating alarm to wake her up at a set time.

Your mom can even get together with her girlfriends and set up a friendly competition to see who is performing the most exercise and burning the most calories. Even better, she can see who is calling her phone even when her phone is in her handbag. 

So if you are still wondering what to get for Mothers Day, wonder no more, because the Fitbit Charge is a fabulous gift!

 


 

7. AcuRite 00613A1 Indoor Humidity Monitor

AcuRite 00613A1 Indoor Humidity Monitor - gift ideas for your momThe AcuRite indoor humidity monitor is a fabulous Mother’s Day gift that measures the temperature (Celsius or Fahrenheit) and humidity indoors.

Humidity is measured in percentages and you have a low/high indicator as well, to indicate high, low or ideal conditions.

Your mom can also monitor the daily high and low temperatures inside your home, as well as humidity records. It is totally wireless, can be mounted on a shelf or magnetically mounted on the fridge and is powered by x1 AA battery.

This is the ideal Mothers Day Gift, helping your mom monitor the temperature and humidity in any room of the house. It is particularly suitable for the nursery or for the elderly, aAcuRite Indoor Humidity Monitor - mothers day gift ideass both the young and the old are susceptible to extreme temperature and humidity changes. 

The AcuRite indoor humidity monitor is an extremely affordable last minute Mother’s Day gift and will be used every single day in the home.

 


 

8. Tractive GPS Pet Tracker

Tractive GPS Pet Tracker - last minute mothers day giftsIf your mom or partner has pets, then the Tractive GPS Pet Tracker makes an ideal Mother’s Day gift.

It is light weight and waterproof and is the smallest GPS tracking device on the market.

The Tractive GPS tracker is easily fitted to your mom’s pet’s collar and give reliable real-time location tracking. This is perfect if your mom or partner have a dog that thinks it is Houdini and keeps escaping from your yard. It is also great when your dog has wondered off in the park and is busy hiding behind a bush.

This GPS tracker is also fabulous for cat owners, because you can find them easily if they are being stubborn and won’t come in when your mom calls them.

You can also attach the tracker to your kids in the playground, so you always know where they are at any time (a huge safety factor) and you can also fit them to your luggage so you don’t lose it on your travels.

Tractive GPS Pet Tracker - best gifts for mothers dayThere are no SMS costs or hidden fees with the Tractive GPS Pet Tracker, but there is a very low priced monthly charge for the service (currently $6.99 per month).

The fee is because this tracking device works through the cell towers, but you can stop the service at any time. 

Your mom can track her pets live over the internet or using an app on her smartphone and the live tracking app will show your mom where her pet has been and is it is heading to right now.

The Tractive GPs Pet Tracker works on both iPhones 4+ and Android devices (2.3+) in more than 80 countries. This is one of the best Mother’s Day gifts you can give to your pet loving mom.

 


 

9. Auto Adjusting Brightness Car Rear View Mirror

AUTO-VOX Dual Video Auto Adjusting Brightness Car Rear View Mirror - good gifts for your momThe Auto-Vox car rear view mirror is perfect for helping your mom, wife or partner park easily and safely.

We can only hope for the day that these rear view mirrors come as standard in cars, but until that happens, the Auto-Vox is going to bring a huge smile to your mom’s face this Mother’s Day.

This piece of gear looks just like the original rear view mirror in her car, so it doesn’t look out of place and is compatible with most makes of vehicles. It comes with an automatic brightness adjuster and a 4.3″ anti-glare LCD monitor display and is easy to install with wires that are long enough for most vehicles.

As soon as your mom or partner engage the reverse gear, the Auto-Vox automatically displays the parking image without having to press any buttons or turn it on. Your mom can even see if children, pets or other objects are in the danger zone when she is reversing.

In bright conditions the display will automatically adjust to the environmental conditions by increasing the images visibility and it will decrease the brightness of the display in darker conditions. it even dims automatically at night if the car behind has their high beams switched on.

The Auto-Vox car rear view reversing mirror is the perfect gift for your mom or partner this Mother’s Day.

 


 

10. Rexing Wide Angle Dashboard Camera

Rexing dash cam - mothers day gift guideThe Rexing dashboard camera is the ideal Mother’s Day gift for all moms and partners who spend time in their vehicles.

A dash cam adds another layer of safety to your family and makes sure that any incidents on the road are well and truly recorded.

This dash cam comes with a high performance 1920 x 1080 HD resolution, a 2.4″ 4:4 TFT LCD and H 264 photography compression technology. You have a 170 degree wide angle lens and a slimline and discreet design, so it doesn’t obstruct your mom’s view when she is driving.

It has an automatic loop recording, which overwrites the oldest videos and an accident auto detection feature that locks data into the memory. It records images in JPG and videos in MOV and supports a 32GB Micro SD/TF card. 

So if you want to ensure your family’s safety on the road, the Rexing dash cam is the perfect choice for this Mother’s Day.

With my Mother’s Day gift guide, you should have no problems picking the best present for your mom, wife or partner this Mother’s Day. 

 


 

To read my nanny cam reviews, click here.

Can a WiFi nanny cam lower your home insurance costs?

Benefits of a WIFI nanny Cam

 

Added security may lower your home security rates

Home surveillance systems and WiFi nanny cams are becoming increasingly popular for a whole host of different reasons. Clearly the reasons for installing a home security system center around making your home safer for your family and to protect your belongings from being stolen, vandalized or destroyed.

A WiFi nanny cam on the other hand, tends to be installed to keep your children safe and to remain in contact with them when you are away from the home, rather than to secure your home.

It is definitely worth your while to contact your home’s insurance company, when you have installed either home security monitoring or a WiFi nanny cam. This is because you might be happily surprised to learn that your insurance company offers discounts to home owners who install security monitoring systems.

Discounted premiums from your insurance company

wif nanny cam benefits - discounted premiumsOf course your insurance company will have certain standards your monitoring system will have to adhere to, but in many circumstances you can receive a discount on your premiums if they believe you have increased your property’s security.

I am sure that you are aware that many insurance companies already reward safe drivers with reduced premiums, as they also do for car owners with a GPS tracking device enabled in their vehicle. In a similar vein, insurance companies can also reward home owners who take practical steps to reduce the vulnerability of their home to invasion.

You might find that the discounts you receive from your insurance company over a 12 month period, easily offsets the purchase cost of one or more home surveillance cameras or WiFi nanny cams.

Even though the peace of mind that comes with ensuring the safety of your family makes the purchase costs worthwhile, it is good to know that you might also receive a discount on your property insurance as well.

Insurance companies are well aware that they lose a lot of money through property theft, so installing security cameras in your home makes your property a lower risk to insurance companies, making them more inclined to discount your premiums.

Is a WiFi nanny cam as good as a home surveillance camera?

Nest Cam Security Camera - Nanny CamIn many instances, home security cameras are used as nanny cams and vice versa.

There is nothing that really differentiates one from the other. I guess if you really want to draw a line in the sand, then you wouldn’t expect a home surveillance camera to play lullabies or monitor the ambient temperature.

However, many nanny cams don’t have these features either, so the line between what is considered a home security camera and a WiFi nanny cam is grey and very difficult and even unnecessary to determine.

Both home surveillance cameras and nanny cams can have HD images, pan & tilt, digital zooms and local storage, so both can be used for home security or monitoring your children.

Whether your surveillance camera plays lullabies or not, shouldn’t make any difference to your insurance company, if they offer discounts for additional home security measures.

Using your nanny cam for security purposes

Even though you might have purchased your nanny cam to keep an eye on your little ones at home when they are left with a babysitter, you can still use it for security purposes as well. In fact, their use as a security camera is often overlooked by many parents.

For example, if yoFoscam F19861P wireless IP camerau have a few nanny cams dotted around your home you can easily keep an eye on not only how the baby sitter, nanny or housekeeper interacts with your children, but also what else they are up to in your home. 

You might be surprised to learn that a lot of theft is actually perpetrated by someone known to your family who is either employed by you or has easy access to your property.

Of course, none of us like to think that someone close to us could steal something from our home, but with a nanny cam in your home you will have visual evidence if this type of crime does occur. It is sad if one of our employees does steal from us, but I am sure that you would want to know if it was the person looking after your children.

State laws against audio recordings

If you intend to install a home security camera or a nanny cam in your home then you need to be aware of the laws in your State governing voice recordings. In many States it is illegal to record audio without the participants permission, so if you purchase a security camera or a WiFi nanny cam with audio, makes sure that you can turn the audio function off.

You can read about these laws, specific for your State here.

The following nanny cams allow you to switch the audio function off: 

For help deciding which surveillance camera or WiFi nanny cam is best for your family, check out my article here.

Top 10 Recommended Nanny Cams – My Pick

Top 10 Nanny Cams

 

MY UPDATED TOP 10 NANNY CAMS – 2019

Following intensive research to source the best nanny cams for my readers, I have totally updated my previous Top 10 list.

If you are curious (or in a hurry):

 

Top 3 nanny camsThis is a really affordable nanny cam with all of the features you need to keep your family safe and protect your home.

With 2-way communication, digital zoom, wide angle lens, SD card slot, sound & motion detection, cloud storage and high level encryption, you know you are onto a winner.

It is even a Best Seller on Amazon!

You can read my FULL REVIEW of this nanny cam or read lots of online customer reviews here.

 

 

Which Nanny Cam is Best?

There are so many different nanny cams on the market that it is time consuming and frustrating trying to work your way through all of them to find the best one for your situation. So here are my Top 10 Nanny Cams based on features, functionality and customer reviews.

  1. YI Wireless IP Camera.
  2. Arlo Pro.
  3. Dropcam Pro.
  4. Amcrest ProHD.
  5. SOTION WiFi IP Security Video Camera.
  6. Piper nv Smart Home Security System.
  7. Vimtag WiFi IP Surveillance Camera
  8. Cavalry IPC10010.
  9. Nest Cam.
  10. Arlo Home Security – Q Plus.

 

When you need to leave your baby or children with someone else, either to go to work or just to go out together for dinner as a couple, you want to feel  that you are still protecting your family.

Of course, you are only going to leave your children with someone you trust, but it is always better to be safe than sorry. This is why nanny cams are so popular, because you can check in with the babysitter when you are away or simply dial in and watch what is going on at home – unobserved.

Don’t forget that you can use a nanny cam to keep an eye on an elderly relative at home or even watch the antics of your mischievous pets when they are home alone.So if you feel that a nanny camera will make you feel more secure leaving your family at home, here are my top 10 picks.

 

 


 

Here are my TOP 10 Nanny Cams

 

1. YI Wireless IP Camera

YI 1080p Wireless IP Home Security Camera and Nanny CamThe Yi Wireless IP Camera has quickly risen to the top of my Top 10 list because it has all the functionality you need and is easy to setup and at a great price point.

With 2-way communication, an SD card slot, 1080p resolution, wide angle lens, digital zoom and sound & motion detection this is a super little nanny cam that can easily be re-purposed when your family is grown. 

The images are really crystal clear, because it uses lens distortion correction technology to erase any distortions in your images and videos caused by the wide angle lens. You also have dual stream recording, so if your connection is not good, it changes the streaming to accommodate this problem.

 

 

2. Arlo Pro nanny cam & home security camera

Arlo Pro Outdoor Security System with SirenThe new Arlo pro is the upgraded version of the original Arlo, which is a pretty great nanny cam in itself. The reason the original Arlo camera isn’t in my Top 10 is because it lacks a few features that I think are important in a nanny cam.

So the Arlo Pro is exactly the same as the original Arlo but it has a few additional features. To begin with, they are both totally weatherproof and waterproof, so they can be used indoors or outdoors and they are completely wireless. 

This means that you can put them anywhere, as they don’t need a power point. They both have 720p HD images and night vision, and are freestanding with magnetic mountings, a zoom function on the app, customizable alert notifications and 7 days of free cloud storage (1 GB).

The Arlo Pro however, has 2 way communication, which the original Arlo doesn’t, it has a siren on the base unit, a rechargeable battery, a USB port for local storage, a 130 degree wide angle lens (the original Arlo only has 110 degrees) and both sound and motion detection (the original has only motion detection).

The Arlo Pro is not cheap, but it is a very popular camera and is selling well online at the moment. 

 

 

3. Dropcam Pro Nanny Cam

Dropcam Pro - nanny cameraThe Dropcam Pro is the updated version of the Dropcam and has 2-way communication, IR night time vision, an optical zoom (x8) and a wide angle lens (130 degrees).

This is a cloud based WiFi video recording nanny camera with an optional CVR (cloud video recording) subscription available.

If you chose not to buy into the subscription ($29.95 for 30 days) then you can only view live video, not previous footage.

You receive both sound and motion alerts on your smartphone or iPad and it has bank level encryption. Setup is very easy and you can do this even without a computer, as long as you have a compatible Apple mobile device.

 

 

4. Amcrest ProHD 1080P Nanny Cam

DIY home surveillance - Amcrest ProHD 1080P nanny camThis nanny cam is a very popular choice with many home owners and parents.

It is really easy to set up and has 2-way communication, so you can talk to the babysitter at home or sing your little one a lullaby as they drift off to sleep.

The Amcrest nanny cam also comes with IR night time vision, pan & tilt, a digital zoom, microSD and cloud storage and HD images. You don’t have sound notifications on your phone, but you do have motion alerts. 

For the price it is a great nanny cam which can be later used for home surveillance.

 

 

5. SOTION WiFi IP Security Video Camera and Nanny Cam

SOTION WiFi IP Security Video Camera and Nanny CamThis is a very affordable and popular security camera and nanny cam that is a Best Seller on Amazon. It has all of the features you need and is very easy to setup. It has also been specifically designed to retain a table connection, which is something that customers appreciate.

It comes with 2-way communication, pan & tilt, a digital zoom, IR night time vision, motion detection and alerts, an SD card slot, 960p resolution and secure encryption. If you are looking for a cheap nanny cam (currently selling for under $100), then this SOTION model is definitely worth a look.

 

 

6. Piper nv Smart Home Security System/Nanny Cam

Piper nv Smart Home Security System - blackThe Piper nv Smart Home Security System is a kind of hybrid between a home automation system and a nanny cam. You have 2-way communication, a wide angle lens, pan & tilt and a x10 digital zoom, as well as sound and motion alerts and night vision.

On top of all this, you also have a 105db siren that automatically turns on when an intruder alert is triggered, a battery backup if the power goes out (or a burglar disconnects the device from the mains power), auto rearming and it is compatible with Z-wave accessories (window and door sensors, power switches and dimmer switches).

 

 

7. Vimtag WiFi IP Surveillance Camera/Nanny Cam

Smart Cloud Wifi IP Camera - newThe Vimtag nanny cam is a great little camera with sleek and modern lines and lots of features. You have 2 way communication, pan & tilt, a x4 digital zoom with the app, an SD card slot, night time vision and crystal clear images.

It is very quick and easy to set up as well, and online customer reviews back up this fact.

You can also by a 1 TB cloud storage box to save all of your images and videos, if you run out of space on the SD card. There are no monthly fees for cloud storage, which is a huge plus. 

It also detects both sound and motion, which is another plus, because most nanny cams or surveillance cameras only detect motion, not sound. At around $100, its not cheap, but it has oodles of features, great images and is easy to set up.

 

 

8. Cavalry IPC 10010 Nanny Cam

Cavalry IPC10010 nanny camThis is a great little nanny cam or home surveillance camera with 2 way communication, IR night time vision, highly quality images, pan & tilt, microSD storage, motion detection and alert notifications on your mobile devices.

You don’t have lullabies, a temperature sensor or a digital zoom, but the images are crisp and you have auto balance and auto exposure for perfect images, day or night.

One of the most frequent comments from customers about this nanny cam is that it is so easy to set up – you just plug it in and it works. This makes a huge difference when you compare it with the set up problems that come with many other nanny cams.

 

 

9.  Nest Cam

Nest Cam Security Camera - Nanny CamThe Nest Cam is a super little nanny cam with lots of great features, but to get the best out this nanny cam, you really do need the monthly subscription to Nest Aware – Nest’s Cloud based storage.

With this subscription you can view past recordings and save video recording, but without it you can only view live video, not save it.

The $10/month subscription gives you 10 days of prior footage and the $30 /month subscription gives you 30 days of previous footage. The Nest Cam has 2-way communication, a digital zoom (x8), a wide angle lens (130 degrees), IR night time vision, sound and motion alerts and bank level encryption.

 

 

10.  Arlo Home Security – Q Plus

Arlo Home Security Camera - The Arlo Q PlusThe Arlo Q Plus offers 1080P HD videos, 130 degree viewing angle (so you can see the whole room), night vision, 2 way communication and flexible connection options (Wifi, Ethernet and PoE).

You can add up to 5 cameras on the same network and view all live videos on your smartphone, tablet or PC. You also have sound and motion push notifications and 7 days FREE cloud storage,  as well as an SD card slot for when your internet goes down.

You can even mix in the WIRELESS Arlo Cameras with the Plus Q and really design your own DIY home surveillance system for a very affordable price.

 

 


 

To read more nanny cam reviews – click here.

 

Amcrest Pro HD 1080P nanny cam catches a burgler!

 

Amcrest Pro HD 1080P nanny cam catches a burgler!

 

 

A great story about the Amcrest ProHD 1080P

The Amcrest Pro HD 1080P nanny cam is a super little security camera with loads of great features (you can read my review here). This is the most popular nanny cam on my website, and in fact it is the nanny cam that most visitors here purchase.

DIY home surveillance - Amcrest ProHD 1080P nanny camSo when I came across this story about the Amcrest Pro in the news the other day, I just knew that I had to share it with everyone.

This news item really demonstrates how useful the Amcrest Pro HD 1080P nanny cam really can be for protecting your home and valuables, as well as your family.

The thing is that you can use the Amcrest Pro as a nanny cam, because it gives you peace of mind when you have to leave your little ones with a babysitter. We have all heard of some of the horrid things that can happen when people we leave our children or babies in the care of someone we trust (you can read my post on that here – but it is a bit graphic, so be warned).

Anyway, as well as using the Amcrest as a nanny cam you can also use it for home surveillance, either by adding more cameras to the system (you can have up to 4 Amcrest cameras on the same account) or once your children are grown – you can re-purpose them for home security.

Amcrest Pro catches a thief on camera

So this thief was caught by the Amcrest pro as he brazenly drove up and parked in the owners driveway, walked up to the front door and casually walked away with two packages from Amazon, which had been delivered that day.

This footage is absolutely amazing and shows you how cool it is to have surveillance in your home. Check out the video below:

 

As you can see, the Amcrest camera is located right at the front door, so it was in the right place to catch footage of this thief. It isn’t a nice very nice thought when you realize that someone can just walk right up to your door like that and steal your packages.

In fact, the latest statistics I can find on home invasions in the US is from 2011, where there were nearly 3.5 million reports of household burglaries. These statistics had reduced considerably over the previous 18 years, but at the same time thefts of electronic devices and household appliances had increased. 

Other statistics I found state that the US has the most burglaries in the world with one taking place every 15 seconds!

Amcrest ProHD 1080PNo-one wants to think that someone can break into their home and rummage through their belongings, let alone steal something of value.

So installing a network of the Amcrest Pro cameras in your home will not only let you keep in contact with your family when you are not at home, but will also keep your home safe when everyone is away.

Purchasing 3 or 4 of these Amcrest nanny cams will set you back less than $500,  which is not much money to set your mind at rest and protect your family. Of course you can purchase just one camera and add to it as your budget allows, as there is no problem with building a network over time.

If you want to learn more about the Amcrest Pro HD 1080P nanny cam, you can read my review of the Amcrest Pro HD 1080P or you can just check out my page on the Amcrest’s specifications

 

Do you need a pet cam?

Do you need a pet cam?

 

Install a pet cam and keep an eye on your dog or cat at home

If you have a dog or cat at home, then have you ever thought about installing a pet cam? You might be really amazed at what your pup gets up to when you are not around. Dogs who are home alone all day can become very mischievous, because they are bored and they miss us not being there with them – cats most probably sleep all day.

Most of us feel guilty about leaving our dogs alone at home when we go to work. It is even worse when we have to go away for an extended period of time. One way to make yourself feel better about leaving your dog or cat at home, is to install a dog cam so you can keep an eye on them while you are at work.

pet cam - cat camThe great thing about a pet cam is that you can remotely pan and tilt the camera so that you can follow your dog’s antics around the room. You can also have 2-way communication with many of the pet cams, so that you can actually talk to your dog or cat at home.

Imagine seeing your dog chewing your favorite shoes and telling them to stop by using the microphone in the doggie cam! You can also hear your dog if they are barking or making any other noises at home as well. So a pet cam can take away a lot of the stress involved in leaving your dog at home and also lets you to keep an eye on them, in case they get up to no good at home.

Do dogs really miss us when we leave them at home?

Well, yes they do. Research has shown that dogs do understand the concept of time. The way that dogs relate to time is different to how we relate to time however. For example, when we think of a past event we put it in context with what we saw, what the weather was like, how long we were there, who we met – that sort of context.

Dogs on the other hand think of how much time has passed since something happened. So for example, they know that it has been too long since they were last walked or too long since they were last fed.

The reason we know pet cam - doggie camthis is because if you have just walked or fed them, they are happy but the more time that has passed since their walk or their last meal – the more they nag us. So they do realize that time has passed time an event occurred.

They also understand the difference between being left alone for certain lengths of time. Research using MRIs has shown that dogs do know the difference between 30 minutes and two hours and their behavior changes depending on how long they have been left alone. So if you leave them alone for 30 minutes they are happy to see you when you return, but after 2 hours they are even happier to see you.

At the moment there is no scientific evidence that dogs understand the difference between 2 and 4 hours, but since dogs can understand the time since a past event (called episodic memory), they may well also understand that more than 2 hours has passed.

If you think back, your dog is always happy to see you when you return after an hour, but they are doing back flips when you return after six hours. I am sure that you have also left your dog in the kennel when you have gone on holiday or heard stories about kids going off to college and leaving the family dog at home.

Have you seen this video on YouTube? It is where a young girl returns home after 2 years working away and her dog who was left at the family home is so excited to see her that the dog faints.

 

So anecdotal evidence does seem to support that our dogs do know the difference and that more time has passed since they last saw you.

So do you need a doggie cam?

A pet cam is a great idea to keep an eye on what your dog is up to at home when they are all alone. You can catch your dog doing some really weird stuff when they are alone – all of the dogs in this next video were left home alone and their antics were caught on pet cams.

 

Just imagine what you might find out if you install a doggie cam in your home!

 


 

Foscam F19861P wireless IP camera

 

Read my review of this great pet cam here

 

 

Nanny Cam Reviews Table Comparisons

 

Compare lots of pet cams here

 

Nanny cams for elderly relatives

Nanny cams for elderly relatives

 

Make sure your elderly relative is safe at home with a nanny cam

Installing a nanny cam so you can keep an eye on your elderly relative and make sure that they are safe is a very reasonable action to take – with their permission of course.

As your parents or other relatives become older, the topic of caring for them and keeping them safe rears its head. Of course there are lots of great retirement homes around, but as we all know and can appreciate, many elderly relatives want to remain in their own home or move in with their children, rather than a retirement home.

The problem is that the older we become, the more likely we are to fall at home with 2.5 million elderly people being treated for falls each year. More than a quarter of a million elderly people are admitted to hospital for broken hips and more than 95% of these are due to a fall.

So insuring that our older relatives are safe at home is essential for their well and quality of life.

Nanny cams help to keep your elderly relatives safe

Elderly Senior Woman Using Walking FrameThere are lots of changes you have to make when an elderly relative moves into your home. This is because they require more care as time goes by and their mobility can become an issue.

This is where a nanny cam can be a huge benefit, because it allows you to keep in touch with your relative when you are not at home.

This is not spying on them, but is a way to keep them safe at home. You can install a nanny camera in your relative’s home or in your home, if they move in with you.

A WiFi nanny cam will make a big difference to your stress levels about whether or not your parent is safe at home alone. It will also reassure them that you will see if they are in trouble even if they can’t get to a phone and call you.

Nanny cams are very affordable and will help you to feel less stressed about not being there for your parent, because you have a career and you need to go to work. The risk of falling however, increases as we age and the last thing you want is a parent with a broken hip at home.

So apart from installing quality nanny cameras in your home, here are 17 more tips to help you keep your elderly relative safe at home.

17 Safety tips for elderly relatives in the home

  1. Install smoke alarms in every room of your home and check their batteries regularly.
  2. Don’t forget to install a carbon monoxide alarm as well in your home.
  3. Have a clear escape rout in case of a fire and a fire extinguisher in the kitchen.
  4. Make sure that there is sufficient lighting on the stairs inside and outside on the veranda, the garage, porch and garden paths.
  5. If you have an open fireplace or a log burner in your home, make sure that it is safely behind a fireguard.
  6. Install nightlights that go on and off when they detect motion.
  7. Declutter the floor spaces, so your elderly relative won’t trip easily.
  8. Place non-slip mats in bathrooms and around the skin in the kitchen.
  9. Install bars and grab handles in the shower and around the bathtub.
  10. Find a sturdy and waterproof chair, bench or stool that will fit in the shower.
  11. Make sure you store needed items on low shelves.
  12. Make any threshold level, if possible, to avoid falls in the home.
  13. Reposition any electrical cords that drape along the floors.
  14. Install external ramps for entryways if the steps are a problem.
  15. Create a covered walkway between the garage and house, so they don’t slip in the rain.
  16. Replace worn or torn carpets or rugs.
  17. Fit a chain on the front door, so your elderly relative can check their ID before letting them into the home.

With a nanny cam installed in your home, you can chat to your relative when you are at work and keep an eye on them in case they fall or injure themselves in some other wat. Yes, you can use the phone, but being able to SEE that they are OK is a big way to reduce your stress, when you have to leave them home alone.

To make sure your elderly relative is safe at home you definitely want a nanny cam with specific features.

Features of a perfect nanny camera for your elderly relative

  • 2-way communication – so you can chat with your relative.
  • Pan& Tilt – so you can follow them around the room.
  • Digital zoom – so you can zoom in for a closer look.
  • Temperature sensor – so you know the room is not to cold.
  • High quality images – so you can see everything clearly in case of an accident.
  • Sound and motion alert notifications to your smartphone.

There are two good nanny cams that fulfil all of these criteria – the D-Link DCS 855L and the D-Link DCS-850L. There are lots of other nanny cams which you can read about here – but these are the only two that I have reviewed so far, that have all of these features.

 


 

DCS-850L nanny cam with audio

 

Read my D-Link DCS-850L review here

 

DCS-855L nanny cam with audio

 

Read my D-Link DCS-855L review here

Nanny beats baby caught on camera

nanny beats baby caught on camera

nanny beats baby caught on camera

 

WARNING – This article contains links to videos that contain disturbing content

 

Babysitter caught on camera hitting toddler

This must be one of the worst subjects to think about, but when you see the headlines “nanny beats baby caught on camera” in the news, it definitely catches your attention.

None of us want to even consider for one moment that the person we entrust with the care of our children could or would abuse that trust. Unfortunately, this is not true and there have numerous cases where such a horrific event has actually happened.

At the end of this article I have listed four such cases in the past year or so, cases that have hit the news. All of the four links open into a news page, three of them with an embedded video, two of which – show you the child abuse caught on video.

So be warned that these videos are graphic and are very disturbing – so skip them if you don’t want to watch them. 

 


 

It is so normal for us to use nannies to look after our children

The point I am making here and why I am writing this article is because so many of us leave our children with nannies or babysitters during the day, while we are at work. Money is always tight and more often than not, both parents need to work to pay the bills.

So it is a fairly normal routine in many families – that mom and dad go out to work and a nanny or even a family member comes in and looks after the children.

This is such a scary and horrifying scenario, when someone you entrust your children’s welfare to, actually abuses your children. In most cases however, there are no problems and the care giver is absolutely wonderful with the children.

It is when those few cases are brought to light in the media that we realise the risks we are really taking with our children and the ramifications of these risks, chill us to the bone.

 


 

WIFI Nanny cams give you peace of mind

Most nannies are completely professional and dedicated to their work. However, when you have to leave your baby or children in the care of another person, you need to be 100% certain that your child is being treated appropriately and is always safe and protected.

Even though we all have expectations of honesty and integrity in care givers, safety is always the most important concern for parents. So if you have to employ a nanny or even a family member to care for your baby when you are at work, a WIFI nanny cam is a purchase that you will never regret.

You can read my nanny cam reviews here.

 


 

Uganda – nanny caught on camera

News24 reported such a case in November of 2014, where in Uganda a nanny was exposed abusing a child – you can read the news report on News24 and watch the embedded video there as well, but be warned because it is very graphic and disturbing to watch.

News24 – nanny beats toddler video

The toddler’s father had installed the nanny cam after he noticed that his young daughter was more subdued than usual and had unexplained bruises on her skin. The nanny was later jailed for 4 years and the abuse has provoked a widespread debate concerning childcare in Uganda.

California – baby abuse caught on tape

In March of 2015, Yahoo News reported another case of a nanny beating a baby in California. The tape shows the nanny hitting a toddler while he is sitting in a high chair. His mother had installed the nanny cam after she had found bruises on her son, but didn’t expect to see the type of violence caught on her camera.

You can read the news report and watch the video below – but again it is very graphic and disturbing to watch.

Yahoo News – nanny beats toddler video

Boston – child abuse caught on video

In December of 2014, a German nanny was arrested for abusing a toddler in Sherborn, Massachusetts. The father of two boys installed the nanny cameras in his home, because his children had been “acting up” and he wondered if there was a problem with the nanny.

Unfortunately his concerns proved correct when the videos revealed the nanny physically abusing his 3 year old son. The nanny was arrested.

You can read the news report here.

South Carolina – dog catches nanny abusing baby

In 2013, a young couple in South Carolina became suspicious of their nanny when they noticed that their very friendly and unassuming dog had become quite aggressive towards her. They secretly placed an iPhone under the couch when they left for work and were horrified to learn that their nanny was verbally and physically abusing their 7 month old son all day long.

The nanny has been jailed for 1 to 3 years for her crime and they are very thankful that their dog was so perceptive. You can watch an interview with the parents which was embedded in Foxnews.com below, but be warned that the topic is very disturbing.

Fox News – interview with parents of baby abused by nanny

 


 

 

Nanny Cam Reviews Table Comparisons

 

To read my nanny cam reviews – click here.

 

 

How to Select the Best Nanny Cam with Audio for your Family

 

the best nanny cam - nanny cam with audio

 

Selecting the best nanny cam for your family

If you are searching for a nanny cam with audio, 2-way communication, pan & tilt, wide viewing angles, lullabies and much more besides, then you have come to the right place. 

Most of us don’t know anything about nanny cams or wireless surveillance systems, so the whole topic can seem overwhelming at first. However, as with anything, the more you know, the better you understand the subject matter and the easier it is to make a decision.

That’s why I wrote these nanny cam reviews, to make your life a lot easier!

So let’s look at a few important features of nanny cameras that will help you to decide which one is best for your situation. We are going to look at live video feeds, video storage, battery or mains power, hidden nanny cams, viewing angles, nanny cameras with audio and/or 2 way communication, sound and motion sensors, temperature sensors, lullabies, and pan & tilt, and whether you want remote access or not.

A few of these features are more important to me than others, for example, at the very least I want a nanny cam with audio, preferably with 2 way communication. I want pan & tilt, a wide angle lens, live video feeds, free cloud storage, sound and motion sensors, remote access and I want a battery backup if possible (so it still works if the power goes out).

So let’s jump right in and you can make a list of the features you want in a nanny cam, then you can go ahead and read my reviews

 


 

Do you want live video feeds?

real time monitoring with a baby cam at home - nanny cam with audioAll nanny cams record live video images, but only some of them allow you to view these images in real time. Others simply store the recordings and you can watch them later in your own time.

So you need to decide whether the functionality of real time monitoring is important and practical to you.

If you don’t have internet access during the day, either from a desktop PC, your smartphone or via WIFI or you simply don’t have the time to view videos during the day, then the cheaper option where the nanny cam stores the videos, but doesn’t give you real time monitoring, might be your best option.

Otherwise, if you want real time monitoring, you need a WIFI enabled nanny cam.

So your first decision is do you want live video streaming?

 


 

How are the video recordings stored?

There are three ways your video recordings can be stored, which as you will see can be a strong deciding factor on which system you eventually select.

Storage on your PC 

You can connect the nanny cam directly to your PC or to an external hard drive. The problem with this is that your PC or external drive could crash, die an untimely death or even be stolen. You have then lost all of your stored video recordings. So nanny cams that only offer video storage on a PC or external drive may not give you as much security as you need – from the point of view of storage. They may better used for home security, where you want evidence of who broke into your home

Storage on an SD card

 Most nanny cams can store video footage on an SD card, rather than a PC or external drive. The problem with SD cards is that they can fill up fairly quickly (depending on the size of SD card)

Storage in the Cloud

This is a more high tech and more recent method of video storage, where the images are transmitted via WIFI and stored in the Cloud. You can then access the live video footage from the Cloud using WIFI on any mobile device or PC.

The problem with Cloud storage is that it costs money, usually a monthly fee, which for the time being makes this the least popular storage method (based on customer reviews). Although some nanny cams do not charge a fee for cloud storage.

 

The most popular nanny cams have live video streaming, which are stored on an SD card.

So do you want to store your video footage on your PC or external drive, an SD card or in the Cloud?

 


 

Battery operated nanny cam or one that needs electrical power?

Battery operated nanny cams - nanny cam with audio

You can purchase nanny cams that run only on battery, with the batteries lasting for up to 20 hours.

The majority however, last from 3 to 5 hours, some to around 10 hours.

The longer the battery life, the greater the price and you may find that nanny cams with a 20 hour battery cost hundreds of dollars.

With battery operated nanny cams you really want to use the motion sensor so that they only record when motion is detected. This will extend the life of the battery, as when they do not detect any motion, they enter a standby mode which uses hardly any power.

Yes, if you have a power outage, these nanny cams will keep recording, however you have to balance the cost against the probability that your home will lose power.

So do you want a battery powered or electrical powered nanny cam? 

 


 

Do you want a hidden nanny cam or an obvious surveillance camera?

There are laws concerning recording people in your own home and these are different depending on which state you live in. So it is best if you check the nanny cam laws in your state, so you know what is and isn’t legal.

It’s also best to check these laws before you spend money on expensive hidden cams, such as those hidden in teddy bears for example, as these tend to be more expensive than the more overt home surveillance cameras that are available.

In many states you need someone’s permission to record them using a hidden nanny cam (particularly if it’s a nanny cam with audio), so the take home message is to check the laws in your state before you invest in a nanny cam or other type of home surveillance.

So do you want an overt or a covert nanny camera? 

 


 

Do you want two-way communication?

Man calling to children using nanny cam app - nanny cam with audioThis can be useful if you want to be able to talk to your children while you are away and they are in their nanny’s care or with your partner at home.

Although, you could always use the phone, which might be a cheaper option 🙂

Two-way communication is great when you can soothe your baby while the baby sitter is changing them or settling your baby and it is also useful to chat with the babysitter or your partner at the same time.

If you feel that this functionality is important to you, then you need to add this to your list of requirements. You can also choose a nanny cam with audio instead of 2-way communication, where you can only hear each other, but not talk. 

So you want two-way communication in a nanny cam? 

 

Do you want the widest possible viewing angle?

If you want a nanny cam then you most probably also want one with the widest possible viewing angle. This is because you want to see all areas of the room with no areas that are out of view – so think about a pan & tilt function in the nanny cam.

If you only want a surveillance camera for home security, then aiming the camera at the front entrance for example, might be all you need. So in this case, a narrow field of view is most probably fine for your needs.

Do you want the widest possible viewing angle? 

 


 

Do you want sound and motion sensors?

Sound detection is a great feature because it turns on when it detects sound and you can hear what is happening and being said in the immediate area. You can also hear if your baby is crying and if you have the 2-way communication function as well, you can then soothe your baby, even when they are with your partner or babysitter.

sound and motion alert notifications on nanny cams - nanny cam with audioMotion sensors are good because the nanny cam only turns on if it detects motion in its field of view, otherwise it is in standby mode.

This saves on battery time (if you have a battery operated nanny cam) and also doesn’t fill up your SD card with videos of an empty room.

If you want the nanny cam so you can view the interactions of your children and a carer, then it is unlikely that a motion sensor would be needed. This is because motion sensors tend to be more useful for home surveillance, where they turn on because someone is in the room who shouldn’t be there.

Some nanny cams have both sound and motion detectors, others have have just sound detection

So do you want both sound and motion sensors in your nanny cam? 

 


 

Do you want a nanny camera with audio?

If you want your nanny cam to observe your children and their carer, you might want a nanny cam with audio functionality, which is a point to note when you are deciding which surveillance cameras to buy. You need to be careful here however, because there are laws about actually recording people without their consent, particularly if you have hidden nanny cams with audio turned on.

The laws are different depending on what state you are in, but if you search for ‘wiretapping and eavesdropping laws’ you should find the laws applicable to your state. It’s best to sort this out first, before you go to the added expense of purchasing a nanny cam with audio functionality. You can however, turn off the audio recordings on many of the nanny cams, but there are a few where you cannot switch it off.

One way to avoid breaching any laws is to simply let the carer know that you have installed nanny cameras with audio functionality in your home, obtain their consent and then you are good to go. Even when they have given their consent, make sure that you don’t record in areas that are considered private, such as bathrooms or if you have a live-in nanny, in their private bedroom.

FYI: If you want a nanny cam with audio functionality for your home (or even in your office), check on the list of features before you buy it, because many home surveillance cameras don’t have audio, whereas most nanny cams have either audio or 2 way communication.

So do you want a nanny cam with audio functionality?

 


 

Do you want a temperature sensor?

A nanny cam with a temperature sensor - nanny cam with audioSome of the nanny cams have an inbuilt sensor that checks the ambient temperature in the room.

If the temperature changes by more than a degree or so, then you are notified via SMS or email. Some people find that this is an important function, others – not so much.

So if you aren’t fussy on this feature you can select a cheaper model or even swap over to a home surveillance camera rather than a specific nanny cam.

So do you want a nanny cam with a temperature sensor?

 


 

Do you want lullabies?

nanny cams and lullabies - nanny cam with audioA nice feature of nanny cams is that some models play a limited number of stock lullabies, some allow you to load your own music and messages, whilst others don’t offer this feature at all.

 

Some parents love that they can turn on a lullaby remotely from the office, to help their little one settle at any time.

However, the more features you want, the more expensive the camera, so if you want lullabies, then make sure the model you select offers this functionality.

So do you want a nanny cam that plays lullabies? 

 


 

Do you want remote pan and tilt?

This function allows you to move the camera lens around in real time so you can track what is happening in a room.

If you can’t do this, then you are stuck with one set view of the room – which may or may not be acceptable to you. It all depends on the reason for the nanny cam.

If you just want to keep an eye on your baby while he or she is sleeping, then you most probably won’t need a pan and tilt function.

On the other hand if you want to keep an eye on other people in your home and their interactions with your child, then you might find that the pan and tilt function is just the ticket.

So do you want a pan and tilt function? 

 


 

Do you want to access video feeds outside your home?

Best nanny cam - business man checking his nanny cam app - nanny cam with audioIf you only want to observe your baby or child while you are at home, for example while they are sleeping in another room, then you won’t need as much functionality.

You might just be happy with a WIFI baby monitor that you can carry around with you at home and has a limited range of say – 500 feet?

On the other hand, if you want to observe your baby while you are at work or anywhere in the world, then you will need a WIFI/wireless nanny cam, specifically designed for remote access outside your home.

So do you want a WIFI nanny cam?

 


 

12 questions to ask yourself before you purchase a nanny cam:

  1. Do you want live video feeds?
  2. Do you want to store the videos on a PC, external drive, SD card or in the cloud?
  3. Do you want a battery operated nanny cam or one that needs electrical power?
  4. Do you want a hidden nanny cam or one that is clearly visible?
  5. Do you want 2-way communication?
  6. Do you want the widest possible viewing angle?
  7. Do you want sound and motion detectors?
  8. Do you want a nanny camera with audio?
  9. Do you want a temperature sensor?
  10. Do want the nanny cam to play lullabies?
  11. Do you want remote pan and tilt?
  12. Do you want a WIFI nanny cam?

That’s nanny cams in a nutshell!

 


 

Nanny Cam REviews Table ComparisonsOnce you have noted the features that important to your situation, you can read my individual nanny cam reviews here.

 

 

 

Baby monitor table comparisonsIf you have decided that you need an in-house baby monitor, not a WIFI nanny cam then you can read my baby monitor reviews here.