Banana Boat SPF 50+ Sunscreen

19/09/2015 By All Mum Said 1 Comment

The warmer months are now upon us and with that means more time in the sun and higher UV alerts. We try to utilise the safer hours in the sun by going out and playing when the UV alert is lower, however this is not always possible. Kids will be kids and will take advantage of every minute they can.

I have always been fanatic about putting sunscreen on the kids, even as babies. However I always forget about protecting myself. It is just as important for parents to protect their skin as it is for their children. Last week I had a suspicious mole removed which is now serving as a very good reminder why it is so important to not only use protection from the sun but also to have regular mole checks.

Banana Boat SPF 50+ Sunscreen

Brands make it easy for parents these days to know which sunscreens are suitable for what children and which age groups. Oh and of course their parents. Banana Boat recently offered me some samples of their SPF 50+ sunscreen lotions, sprays and roll on options. There is something about the smell of them that has always made me want to get outside and enjoy the sunlight. Or maybe it is just the old Banana Boat ad that instantly starts playing in my head!

Sunscreen Options

Just like clothing is made differently and hats come in different sizes; sunscreen also have their protection features. Each to suit a different kind of person.

Sport

This 400ml pump bottle is 4 hour water resistant and designed to be non-greasy. Made with the Australian sun in mind; your family can enjoy hours of protection in the sun with the Sport SPF 50+. Perfect for the whole family!

Kids spray

With the most advanced protection, this SPF 50+ spray bottle offers kids very high protection from the sun in a convenient sunscreen spray. It is 4 hour water resistant and as it is designed for kids; the non-greasy formula won’t run into their little eyes. The spray makes it so easy to apply to your child and is gentle on their delicate skin while remaining tough against the sun.

Kids roll on

This option is exactly the same as the Kids spray above however in a convenient roll on bottle. This makes it easy to carry and even easier for the kids to apply themselves. All the same benefits but in a handy 75ml roll on bottle!

Baby spray

I love that this sunscreen spray is SPF 50+ whilst remaining mild and gentle with no added fragrance. This allows it to be suitable for the delicate skin of a baby. Featuring the same benefits as the kids spray option; 4 hour water resistant, won’t run into eyes and a very easy to use spray, this sunscreen has babies and their parents in mind.

It is no surprise that the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends the SPF 50+ Banana Boat products. They are reliable, trustworthy and convenient. For more information on the Banana Boat Kids and Baby range see here or if you would like to read more about the importance of protecting yourself from the sun.

Disclosure: I received the above products for the purpose of this review. All opinions are my own.

Storksak Catherine Review + Discount + Giveaway

10/09/2015 By All Mum Said 52 Comments

As you all know, I am expecting a baby in the first week of November. As a result of the pregnancy being quite the surprise, we had already given majority of our baby things away. And like most parents will agree, a nappy bag is a ‘must have’ baby item for the first year, at least!

This is why I couldn’t have been more thrilled when I received an email from the lovely team at Storksak; telling me about their new release of Spring/Summer 2015 bags. I am a huge fan of Storksak. I have been for years. When I found out I was pregnant with Poppet (now 2 years old) I invested in a black EMILY NYLON. I hoped it would last longer being more expensive and I am so glad I got it. It is still in near perfect condition today! Just goes to show sometimes spending that bit extra does indeed bring a higher level of quality.

Storksak Catherine Review

Anyway, today I want to share with you my latest and very much loved CATHERINE leather bag. She is just gorgeous! I have the Bordeaux colour and I must say that the image online does not do it any justice, it is a divinely rich shade that complements a chic appearance with practicality.

What do I love about this bag?

There are several things I adore about the Catherine bag and I know many of you lovely mums-to-be and new mums will understand completely!

Features Features Features!

Firstly, there is nothing quite like the smell of new leather being unwrapped. It makes those senses go tingly with excitement. I just love the slouchy appearance, it is my style completely!

Exterior

Handles – There are 2 straps standard with the Catherine. Short ones which make the bag the perfect length to wear under your arm and a detachable padded long leather strap. The long detachable strap offers more than just the ability to wear it over it your shoulder or across your body though, it also features Velcro straps that make it perfect for carrying on your stroller or pram. It really is genius thinking!
Storage – There are three zipped storage pockets located on the exterior of the bag. Two are discreetly located on the front and are slightly larger than my hand when it is stretched out. The other is on the side and is an insulated bottle pocket.
Protection – On the base of the nappy bag, there are four circular studs that protect the bag when placed on the ground. No more worrying whether you will scuff or scratch the leather.

Interior

Storage – This bag offers storage that every parent needs. You will never complain about the lack of it in this particular bag (or the Emily). Internally this bag features 6 storage pockets.

Three are great for snack or bottle storage, one is enclosed with a zip and the other two are larger. I find these particularly handy for nappy sacks, nappy rash cream and sanitiser.

Main compartment – this section of the bag is massive and can cater to whatever you need to hold. Nappies, wipes, spare clothes, bottles, formula, breast pump and possibly even a blanket!

Inclusions

Storage – Just in case you didn’t already have enough storage; there is an additional removable zippered pouch inside the bag. It features a matching leather trim and is perfect for a spare set of clothes, pain relief/medicines, etc.

Changing mat – This is one thing every good nappy bag needs. An included changing mat for when you are out and about. I love that this one folds up small enough to be practical and fits into the bag with everything else. It is sturdy enough to machine wash without being damaged as well.

Size

It is an impressive size at H34 x W47 x D14 cm

I love that it is not overly huge but it is large enough to be convenient and looks amazing!

Quality

As mentioned at the beginning of the review, I trust Storsak to provide nothing but quality after my previous bag is still going strong after years of abuse use. The Catherine bag I have is made with soft leather but I don’t feel like I have to be extremely gentle with it, which is ideal.

STORKSAK DISCOUNT

I have an amazing discount for All Mum Said readers who have always wanted to get their hands on a Storsak bag but haven’t been able to part with the cash.
A whopping 25% OFF!!

This 25% discount can be used on ALL Storksak bags! Visit www.storksak.com.au to view their amazing range and get your Storksak bag now. Use CODE: MUM25.

*Please note this Storksak discount code is only available for Australia and New Zealand customers.

PRIZE INCLUDES: 1x Catherine Nylon bag in Moss or Navy (winners choice). RRP $270.00.

**As the winners are chosen based on skill and not chance; you will be sharing for 0 extra entries however I’d love you to share the giveaway with friends and family. Sharing is caring and karma loves kind people. **

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Terms & Conditions:
1. Australian residents only.
2. Judges decisions is final.
3. Winners must make contact within 72 hours.
4. This is a game of skill. Chance plays no part!
Therefore no extra points are given for sharing however it is good karma!!
5. All Mum Said is not responsible for delivery of prize.
NOT endorsed by or have anything to do with facebook.

If you want to enter more giveaways click over here.

Disclosure: I received the above Storksak Catherine bag for the purpose of this review. All opinions are my own.

Stylish & Affordable – Tesoro Jewellery Review

09/07/2015 By All Mum Said Leave a Comment

I love nothing more than putting on a gorgeous new piece of jewellery. It gives me an added confidence that was somehow lacking before.
It doesn’t matter whether I have saved for my new items or they have been given to me by my husband; the joy in wearing my new found bling is the same. I feel feminine, chic and fashionable.

Tesoro Jewellery Review

Last month I stumbled upon an opportunity to experience Tesoro Jewellery and I couldn’t say no. Tesoro and its unique collection was created in 1973 and its vision has been carried on through family. Inspiration has been sourced through new, upcoming designers that step outside the boundaries to create and design wearable art.

Tesoro have released a new Mio Primo collection that matches style and luxury into everyday wear. The range includes intricate details, geometric shapes and a sophisticated white diamond cut fabric. I was so excited to see these delicate pieces for myself and when they arrived, I was far from disappointed. They sparkled in the light and as I thread the earrings through my ear, I instantly felt glamorous but not overdressed for the office.

A photo posted by Kell (@allmumsaid)

I received two pairs of 925 Silver earring from Tesoro. They are the same but in two different sizes. While I usually wear gold or white gold, I thought I would give their best-selling Tesoro silver earrings a go. Measuring 1.5cm length and 1.5cm width, these earrings exude elegance.
I completely understand why these are a best seller. They are well crafted and absolutely gorgeous, perfect for everyday wear. RRP $69.95 AUD. I have been complemented numerous times about how stunning these are by complete strangers, if that isn’t a compliment to their design, I don’t know what is!

The other pair, even though the same style, I would describe as irresistible for evening or events. They are twice the size of the other pair (measuring 3cm x 3cm) but this only highlights the contemporary linear lines and sophistication in their design. These are gorgeous and will have you shining with style and luxury. RRP $169.95 AUD.

On the Tesoro Jewellery website they have so many great items that it makes it hard to pick something or narrow it down to a few. As a result of their range being so affordable, it is the perfect option for spoiling yourself or a loved one.

Next on my purchase list is this pair of diamond shaped and rectangular cut-out patterned earring in either Rose or black coated silver. I love them!

What do you look for when you purchase jewellery? Is it style, affordability, craftsmanship or something else?

Disclosure: I received the above earrings for the purpose of this Tesoro Jewellery review. All opinions are my own.

Skin Cancer Early Detection Tool + Giveaway

25/05/2015 By All Mum Said 49 Comments

We all know how vital it is to get our moles checked regularly and yet many of us constantly put it off. Why? There could be a lot of reasons; fear, too busy, don’t think it will happen to them, etc. But regardless whether you have one mole or a hundred, they need to be checked at least once a month by you and at minimum once a year by your doctor.

Instead of putting your head in the sand about the potential dangers of skin cancer, be proactive. It is better to prevent or catch a problem early than it is to try and beat it once it has progressed too far.

I recently went and had two moles checked over by my doctor. I had noticed slight changes in them over time and thought I’d make sure they were ok. One was fine, the other not so much. While it may not be cancerous at this point, it is definitely one that is cause for concern and I have been given a referral to have it removed. The idea of someone cutting into my face scars the absolute bejesus out of me but I would prefer that than not be around to see my children grow up just because I was scared.

As a result of Australians not getting frequent checks, there are thousands who are unaware they are living with melanoma. Because this number is so alarmingly high; Skin Patrol has released a fantastic product that will make monitoring your moles less stressful and more accurate. The tabs included in the Skin Patrol Early Detection Tool will allow users to check for the most common characteristics of melanoma; asymmetry, border regularity, colour, diameter and evolution. The tabs make it unbelievably easy to use and understand.

At only $20 there is really no reason why you cannot take control and look after your health. You can purchase online from www.iamskincancer.com and receive 25% off if buying 2 or more. Use the code: savealife.

5 WINNERS

Each Prize Includes: 1x Skin Patrol skin cancer early detection tool. (RRP $20.00) Total Prize Pool: $100.00

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Terms & Conditions:
1. Australian residents only.
2. Judges decisions is final
3. Winners must make contact within 72 hours.
4. This is a game of skill. Chance plays no part!
Therefore no extra points are given for sharing however it is good karma!!
5. All Mum Said is not responsible for delivery of prize.
NOT endorsed by or have anything to do with facebook.

If you want to enter more giveaways click over here.

Disclosure: I received the above tool for the purpose of reviewing. All opinions are my own.

Bonding with baby through feeding + Medela GIVEAWAY

20/04/2015 By All Mum Said 22 Comments

Bonding with your baby through feeding

Bringing a new baby home is an amazing feeling. It is exciting. It is scary. It can be very overwhelming but it can also be the most important time of your life. Being able to bond with your baby is such a magical and unexplainable sentiment and for many women breastfeeding helps to establish this deep connection with our baby. Because of this we always hear about how important it is for women to breastfeed because of the advantages it gives both mum and baby but what about dads?

How are dads supposed to bond with their babies when they can’t breastfeed? With teamwork is how. The benefits of mum expressing milk help not only her but also dad and baby. First time dads especially feel like they are left out of the process when it comes to feeding so when a women expresses milk it not only gives dad a chance to bond with his baby through feeding; it also allows the baby’s mum a chance to enjoy a cup of tea/coffee, enjoy a sleep in or even be able to embrace her partner enjoying the closeness of their baby. As I said it’s magical. Even though dads don’t often express their needs where their baby is concerned, dads want to be able to feel this closeness and bond with their baby just as much as mums do. Bonding with your baby through feeding is a great place to start which is easy for mothers who breastfeed and often why they express breast milk.

There are so many breast pumps on the market that it makes it hard to know which one will be suited to you, which pumps works and which ones are a waste of money. My younger sister and brother-in-law have just experienced the beauty of bringing their first baby into the world which also meant she had been searching for the right breast pump in preparation of their baby being born. She was anticipating returning to work and expressing is a must for her as she wanted to breastfeed her son. She also wanted her partner to be able to experience the feeding process and do night feeds (because no one wants to get up every single time). This is when I received an email asking if I wanted to review the Medela Swing Maxi Double Electric Breast Pump. I called my sister and asked her if she was interested and she was beyond thrilled because she was looking at Medela for her pump mainly because she had heard nothing but great reviews. This particular pump retails for $449.00.

Medela Swing Maxi Double Electric Breast Pump Review

Set Up and Cleaning
The first thing I noticed about the pump after opening the box and taking all the parts out of their individually sealed bags was how simple it is to set up. Without even looking at the directions you can see exactly what fits where. Once I had it all together, I checked the instructions to ensure I set it up properly and to my surprise they are extremely simple and easy to understand. Don’t be scared by the size of the manual.

Before using the Medela breast pump; I sterilised all the equipment. Step by step directions on how to clean are included in the manual which makes it basically fool proof. This can be done by hand washing, putting through the dishwasher or boiling. It took minimal time from start to finish to take apart the breast pump and clean it which is made even more enticing by the fact that all the parts are easy to wipe dry or can be left on a cloth to air dry.

Using the Breast Pump
I think what makes the Medela swing stand out compared to other pumps is the ‘2 phase expression’; which is the 2 stimulation phases that mimics the breastfeeding rhythm. The first stage encourages a milk let down and after 2 minutes the pump will automatically change to the second phase; the ‘expression’ phase, which imitates a long sucking motion similar to the one of a baby. If your milk starts to flow prior to the second phase, you can press the button and it will start the expression phase. I personally found it never took more than 30 seconds to get a good flow to then switch to the expression but as everyone is different you may need the full two minutes in stage one. Both stages are exceptionally comfortable and gentle on the breasts and nipples and the vacuum can be adjusted to suit your need at the time. I used mine mainly as my milk was ‘coming in’ days after my baby was born and there were times my breasts were too sore to even touch yet I could still use the Medela breast pump comfortably.

It took me approximately 10 minutes to pump both breasts and I would get around 100mL from each. What made it even easier was after you finish pumping you can just pop the storage lids in the bottles and store right in the fridge until they are needed. I use the double pump most frequently but it can also be used as a single pump, either of options offer the same great performance.

My favourite part about this pump is the fact that I was able to express breastmilk for my partner to be able to feed bub. It not only allowed him to provide our baby his feeds throughout the night when I needed that extra sleep but he was also given the opportunity to experience that special bonding time that without the pump he wouldn’t be able to do.

Storage
If there wasn’t enough to love about this pump already, the lack of space it requires to store should be added to the list. I was able to keep it in a container on a cupboard shelf where it took up minimal room. The Medela Swing Breast Pump is very portable as you are able to clip the motor onto your clothes and move around the house or store in your handbag for use while out and about thanks to it having the option to operate on batteries (6 AAA).

Pros
The efficiency from start to finish makes a light work load of expressing breast milk thanks to the simultaneous expression in combination with the 2-Phase which ultimately saves you time. The range of vacuum levels and settings allows you to be in control of your comfort and still gain maximum efficiency from the breast pump.

The Medela breast pump is very easy to assemble, use, clean and store. Thanks to how light and compact the pump is, it makes expressing flexible by offering use on batteries or the main adapter.

It allows my baby the opportunity to bond with his dad through feeding.

Cons
It’s very hard to fault this pump! I found that while pumping you have to hold a constant pressure with the shield onto your breast which can become difficult while you’re double pumping. This can be resolved by purchasing an ‘easy expression bustier’ which allows hands-free expressing.

I also noticed the pump makes a bit of noise during use and the harder you set your vacuum the louder it becomes.

Medela Breastfeeding Starter Kit

This kit contains everything a mother needs in those first few weeks of breastfeeding and expressing. It offers an easy and safe way to collect and store breast milk in addition to feeding while containing products that help make mum more comfortable and sooth sensitive nipples for months to come.

This Medela breastfeeding starter kit contains:
• 1x Calma, breastmilk feeding device (specially designed teat that mimics the natural rhythm of breastfeeding)
• 2x 150ml Bottles with multi lids
• 12x Disposable nursing pads
• 1x Purelan 100 7g
• 1x Quick clean microwave bag
• 5x pump and save bags

The Calma lets your baby feed in a way that is similar to breastfeeding which allows for easy transition between the two. Thanks to its one size and shape fits all, your baby will be satisfied from birth until weaning off milk. Just like a nipple.

This kit is suitable for every woman that is breastfeeding or expressing and is the number one choice of hospitals and mothers. I highly recommend it for all your storing, feeding, breast care and breastmilk management in those first few weeks and months! RRP $49.90.

Prize Includes: 1x Medela Breastfeeding Starter Pack. RRP $49.90.

If you want to enter more giveaways click over here.

Disclosure: I received the above product for the purpose of this review. All opinions are my own and my sisters.