Product Recall: Angelcare Movement And Sound Baby Monitors

Angelcare Recalls to Repair Movement and Sound Baby Monitors After Two Deaths Due to Strangulation Hazard

Consumers should stop using this product unless otherwise instructed. It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product.

Recall date: NOVEMBER 21, 2013

Recall number: 14-028

Name of product: Angelcare Movement and Sound Baby Monitors

Hazard:

The cord attached to the baby monitor’s sensor pad is placed under the crib mattress, which poses a strangulation risk if the child pulls the cord into the crib and it becomes wrapped around the neck.

Consumer Contact:

Angelcare at (855) 355-2643 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, e-mail atConsumers@angelcare.ca or online athttp://www.angelcarebaby.com and click on the safety notice section of the website for more information. 

Description

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), in cooperation with Angelcare Monitors Inc.®, of Quebec, Canada, is announcing a voluntary recall to provide cord covers for 600,000 Angelcare Movement and Sound Monitors with Sensor Pads. The cord attached to the baby monitor’s sensor pad is placed under the crib mattress, which poses a strangulation risk if the child pulls the cord into the crib and it becomes wrapped around the neck.

Angelcare and CPSC have received reports of two infant cord strangulation deaths. In November 2011, a 13-month-old female died in San Diego, California, and, in August 2004, an 8-month-old female died in Salem, Oregon. In both fatalities, the cord from the sensor pads was pulled into the crib by the infant. In addition, there have been two reports of infants who became entangled in cords of Angelcare baby monitor models, which did not result in fatalities. In these incidents, it could not be determined if the “sensor pad cord” or the “monitor cord” was involved in the incident.

The recall involves the Movement and Sound Monitor manufactured by Angelcare. This design of baby monitor includes a unique sensor pad placed inside the crib, under the mattress, to monitor movement of the baby. An electrical cord about 11 feet long is permanently connected from the sensor pad to the nursery monitor unit. The hazard is created by a cord within reach of a baby inside the crib. The cord can be pulled into the crib and can wrap around the child’s neck. The recall involves all versions of Angelcare sensor monitors including model numbers: AC1100, AC201, AC300, AC401 AC601 and 49255 that did not include rigid cord covers, offered in the remedy. The model number is located on the back of the nursery monitor unit. The monitors were manufactured between 1999 and 2013.

Angelcare is providing consumers with a repair kit that includes rigid protective cord covers through which the sensor pad cords can be threaded, a new, permanent electric cord warning label about the strangulation risk, and revised instructions.

The recalled baby monitors were sold at Babies R Us/Toys R Us, Burlington Coat Factory, Meijer, Sears, Walmart, Amazon.com, Target.com, Overstock.com, and nearly 70 small baby specialty stores, from October 1999 through September 2013 for about $100to $300. 

Consumers should immediately make sure cords are placed out of reach of the child and contact Angelcare toll-free at (855)355-2643 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or visit the firm's website atwww.angelcarebaby.com to order the free repair kit.

CPSC Safety Alert Campaign on Monitor Cords

In February 2011, CPSC issued a safety alert warning consumers that industry-wide there had been seven reports of strangulation in baby monitor cords since 2002. Since that alert, the number of death reports has risen to eight of which two involved the Angelcare monitors with sensor cords. CPSC has a safety alert Infants Can Strangle in Baby Monitor Cords and conducted an information and education campaign with JPMA in which Angelcare has taken an active role to raise awareness on the hazards associated with baby monitor cords. Parents and caregivers should visit CPSC’s Crib Information Center at www.cpsc.gov/cribs for additional baby monitor cord safety information and they should make sure all cords are out of arm’s reach of children. 

You can find this article here.

Product Review: Bright Starts Around We Go Activity Station

Bright Starts: the Around We Go Activity Station (Doodle Bug theme)

This is my second time getting one of these! Why don't I have my first one still you may be asking? Well, that's simple. I do! It's just in storage back in Miami, FL and we are currently living in Toronto, ON, Canada. I will have it down there when I travel to visit. The new one is slightly better than our 4 year older model too, with newer toys and a "doodle bug" theme. The older model was ocean animals and included a water section which needed to be refilled and was a bit of a pain. I'm loving this newer version of the product and wouldn't change a thing!

With Seat (4-18 Months)

Without Seat (12-24 Months)

Product Description

• Electronic piano with flip book has 3 modes of play: fun songs, piano keys, and silly sounds
• Pond station with bead chaser, popping fish toy, spinning dragonfly, and sliding fish character
• Frog popper toy with swirling beads plus a large mirror
• Ratcheting bee toy, spinning ball toy, and bendable bug stalk toys
• Seat is easily removable so toddlers can enjoy as a play table
• Seat is easily removable so older babies and toddlers can use the activity table standing up
• Removable toy/snack tray

Starting at 4 months old some babies go through a little bit of a stage that they don't know whether to sit up, roll over, or just be held. They are still too young to stand or even sit unassisted. That's where this comes in. You simply seat your child in the seat and show them how to reach for toys and turn the seat side to side. The walking part comes later. Once they realize they can move, they never stop!

This product is designed for ages 4 months old to about 24 months. I personally think it's a little more for 5/6 months and up. My son is four months and his feet still don't reach the floor at the same time. He's only about 26 & 1/2 inches tall and one leg will touch but not the other. Therefore, he won't be walking in it any time soon. However, when my daughter was about 5 & 1/2 months old she was given this item for Christmas and took right to it! She LOVED the toys, music, and little snack tray for her yogurt melts. After about 2 or 3 days she started scooting backwards thought it was the greatest thing! She would giggle as she went around and around the table. It was adorable, we filmed it and showed everyone (as most first time parents do). Soon after she learned how to move forward as well, and once that started she was walking NONSTOP around the table to each station.

Now what's the average price of this item? In the US, they are about $89.99 at most places like Walmart, Target, Babies R Us, and even Sears/Kmart. They are not sold in Canada. However I did purchase mine through Sears.com and they shipped it here within only 2 days for under $20 in shipping! Definitely worth it!

Here's a short and very basic review on the product from a customer. It's simply to show how easy it is to remove the seat and have the table for older babies.

Cloth Diapering 101: Why Choose Cloth?

We know that new and expecting parents have an overwhelming number of decisions to make when it comes to the well-being of their babies. Choosing whether to use reusable cloth diapers or disposable diapers is just one of the decisions that needs to be made. We understand that the abundance of information on cloth diapering combined with the variety of styles and brands can be confusing and intimidating for an expecting family. We hope that the information provided below will help simplify cloth diapering and enable you to make the best diapering decision for your baby and your family.

Savings

Based on 8,000 diaper changes from birth to potty training you can expect to spend between $2,300 to $2,800 on disposable diapers and wipes. In contrast, cloth diapering your baby can cost as little as a few hundred dollars. Using these figures, you can save up to $2,500 by choosing to use cloth diapers and wipes. Proper care and use will extend the life of your cloth diapers and allow for further savings by using them on additional babies.

The #1 reason customers chose to use cloth diapers was for the financial savings. (Based on Thirsties’ 2012 Customer Survey of 720 cloth diapering families)

Use the Savings Calculator to see how much you can save by using Thirsties cloth diapers.

Healthy for your baby's skin

Disposable diapers contain various toxins such as Tributyltin, Sodium Polyacrylate, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC’s) and trace amounts of Dioxin. Your baby’s delicate skin functions as a sponge and what we put on it goes in it.

Thirsties uses low impact reactive dyes and processes that are eco-friendly. No heavy metals, toxic substances, or environmentally destructive practices are used in dying our fabrics. All Thirsties products are PVC (vinyl), phthalate, and lead free.

The second most important reason our customers chose to use cloth diapers was because they are healthier against their baby’s delicate skin. (Based on Thirsties’ 2012 Customer Survey of 720 cloth diapering families)

Environmental Impact

Disposable diapers generate sixty times more solid waste and use twenty times more raw materials than reusable diapers. Disposable diapers are the third largest contributor to our landfills and will remain intact for 500 years.

Style

With the available variety of styles, colors, and prints you can customize a diaper stash that fits your baby’s personality and your budget. Thirsties offers over a dozen fun colors and several adorable prints to fashionably compliment your baby’s style.

Convenience

With cloth diapers, there are no late-night trips to the grocery store for more diapers, no emptying your diaper pail into your already full trash bin, no pins and no rubber pants. With sturdy and easy-to-use closures cloth diapers go on your baby just as disposables do but with oodles more cuteness and style.

98% of our customers think that using cloth diapers is easier than they thought or about what they expected. (Based on Thirsties’ 2012 Customer Survey of 720 cloth diapering families)

Fewer blowouts

Cloth diapers contain blowouts far better than disposables. You can sleep soundly knowing you won’t be up during the night changing outfits, bedding, or bathing your baby.

Cloth Diapering 101: Cloth Diaper Terms

Sizing

Sizing can be different from one manufacturer to another but will usually fall into one of the following categories.

One Size

One size diapers are meant to fit babies from birth to potty training. In general, one size diapers will not properly fit smaller newborn or preemie babies, leading to a gapping diaper and leaking. Many manufacturers who produce a one size diaper also offer a preemie or newborn line to ensure a proper fit for your newborn.

Two Size

Two-sized diaper systems are designed to effectively diaper your baby from birth to potty. In an effort to maximize the fit and affordability of cloth diapering your baby, Thirsties created the Duo line of products. Size one fits babies between 6-18 lbs, and size two fits babies from 18-40 lbs. Each of the two sizes in the Thirsties Duo line feature three rows of snaps to adjust the rise to your baby’s shape, it is like having three sizes in one.

Sized

Sized diaper systems offer a specialized fit for your baby, but each size covers a narrower range than that of a Duo or One size system. Thirsties Diaper Covers are part of a sized system and are available in four sizes, x-small, small, medium, and large.

Components

Hook and Loop Closures

Hook and loop closures make diaper changes quick and provide an amazingly snug fit. Although hook and loop closures are the most convenient closure option, they have a shorter lifespan than snaps. Thirsties products use Aplix(R) brand’s hook-and-loop system which is made in the USA and is regarded as the most durable on the market.

Snap Closures

Snaps are easy to use, are more durable than hook and loop and are strong deterrents to toddlers who prefer to be diaper-free. Snaps are also used throughout the Duo line on the adjustable rise.

Gussets

Gussets are a crescent-shaped inserts added to the leg openings of many cloth diapers for added performance and expansion. Thirsties signature leg gussets move with your baby, providing advanced protection against leaks.

Fabrics

PUL

No stuffy plastic or rubber pants! PUL provides a very reliable, pliable, and breathable yet waterproof outer layer for Thirsties’ covers, wraps, and diapers. PUL stands for polyurethane laminate and is made from extremely durable polyester knit to keep your baby and his or her clothes dry.

Microfleece

A soft, napped wool-like fabric made from synthetic fibers. Microfleece fabric does not absorb, but rather allows moisture to pass right through, which is why it is often used as the layer closest to your baby’s skin. The microfleece layer provide a ‘stay-dry’ effect for your baby’s comfort. Microfleece can help to reduce diaper rash, resists staining, and is buttery soft to the touch.

Hemp Jersey

Hemp jersey is as soft as your favorite t-shirt but is more durable than pure cotton of the same weight and absorbs 25% more moisture! By using hemp, you are able to gain a substantial amount of absorbency without adding a tremendous amount of bulk to your diapering system. Thirsties hemp jersey is one of the softest and most durable available in the market. It is used in Thirsties prefolds and inserts.

Microfiber Terry

Our synthetic microfiber terry is used throughout our line as a soaker due to its performance characteristics of being highly absorbent and quick drying.

Cotton Velour

This velvety fabric is a cotton/poly blend that is absorbent, luxuriously soft and custom knitted and dyed to Thirsties specifications. It is used in Thirsties’ fitteds, doublers and wipes.

Cloth Diapering 101: Accessories

Inserts
Inserts are used to add absorbency to a diapering system. Inserts can be placed between the diaper and cover or stuffed into the pocket or sleeve.

Diaper Ointment
It is very important to choose a baby ointment that is cloth diaper safe. Many traditional diaper ointments contain petroleum or other ingredients which coat fibers and cause diapers to repel.

Reusable Wipes
Are a great alternative to disposable wipes and can save you up to $500. Pair with a baby wipe solution for the best results.

Baby Wipe Solution
When using reusable wipes you will want to purchase a baby wipe solution to properly cleanse and moisturize your baby’s skin.

Wet Bag
A great accessory for your diaper bag used to either enclose clean or soiled diapers. Wet bags come with a closure system to keep odors from escaping.

Diaper Pail
The use of a diaper pail is necessary to keep odors at bay while storing your baby’s soiled diapers until laundry day. 52 quart garbage pails with a lid are a popular choice but any large container with a closure will work.

Pail Liner
Washable liners are designed to fit your diaper pail and be thrown in the wash with your soiled diapers. Pail liners are waterproof and designed to keep odors sealed within.

Diaper Sprayer
A hose with a nozel that is attached to the plumbing of your toilet and is used to cleanse poop from soiled diapers. Diaper sprayers aren’t typically necessary until your baby begins to eat solids.

Cloth Diapering 101: Thirsties' Types of Cloth

There are different styles of diapers to meet the needs of each individual family and baby. All babies are shaped differently and have different absorbency needs so one type of diaper may work better for your baby than another. In addition to fit and absorbency, many families may also compare convenience versus cost. For example, an all in one or pocket diaper may be more convenient, but a two piece system is typically less expensive and can be more absorbent.

All In One

All In One, commonly known as AIO, is the most similar type of cloth diaper to a disposable diaper. The one piece system consists of a waterproof cover with the absorbency sewn inside.

Thirsties Duo AIO includes a signature tunnel design which allows for thorough cleaning and stuffing of additional absorbency as needed. The interior is lined with a stay-dry fleece to keep baby comfortable and dry. The soaker (absorbency) is made of microfiber terry.

To use: Simply slide the diaper under baby and fasten with hook and loop or snap closure.

Pros: Convenient, easy, quick, daycare and sitter friendly, great for diaper bags, can be paired with insert for additional absorbency

Cons: AIO’s may take longer to dry than other diapers, may need additional absorbency for heavy wetters or extended, overnight use.

Pocket

A pocket diaper is a 2 piece system consisting of a waterproof outer shell sewn together with stay-dry lining with openings on one or both ends. The sleeve or pocket that is created is used to stuff the included absorbent insert.

Thirsties Duo Diaper (our pocket diaper) comes with a waterproof shell with a stay-dry lining sewn into it. The openings on both ends make for easy stuffing while allowing the insert to easily agitate out of the diaper in the wash. The inserts feature two layers of serged microfiber terry snapped together with five serged layers of hemp jersey; seven thirsty layers in all!

40% of our customers chose pocket diapers as their favorite type of cloth diaper. (Based on 2012 Thirsties Customer Survey of 720 cloth diapering families)

To use: Secure the insert within the tunnel or pocket, slide the diaper under baby and fasten with hook and loop or snap closure. You may find it easier to stuff the inserts into the diapers right after washing and drying, so that your diaper is ready for use.

Pros: Convenient, adjustable, daycare and sitter friendly (when inserts are pre-stuffed), absorbent

Cons: Bulkier than other diapers, need to stuff inserts into diaper after laundering

Fitted

Fitted diapers are made from absorbent fabric that is tailored to fit, providing complete coverage around your baby. Fitted diapers require the use of a diaper cover to make it waterproof. The use of the fitted diaper and a cover provides two elastic barriers at the legs and waist to prevent leaks.

Thirsties Duo Fab Fitted includes a signature tunnel design which allows for thorough cleaning and stuffing of additional absorbency as needed. The interior is lined with a stay-dry fleece to keep baby comfortable and dry. The soaker (absorbency) is made of microfiber terry.

To use: Simply take the fitted diaper, slide under baby, and fasten hook and loop or snap closure. Repeat steps with the diaper cover.

Pros: Ultra absorbent, soft, comfortable, can be paired with insert for additional absorbency

Cons: Bulky, long dry time, higher cost, 2 piece system that must be paired with absorbent layer

Prefold and Flat

Prefold and flat diapers are what most people think of when cloth diapering is referenced. Prefolds are popular for their affordability and are the most common diaper supplied by cloth diaper services. Using prefolds or flats requiring folding the diaper and then covering it with a waterproof diaper cover. Snappis are a popular closure used to secure prefolds and flats.

Thirsties Duo Hemp Prefold’s revolutionary tunnel design provides a trim fit and is beneficial for better washing and quicker drying times. Our custom hemp jersey is incredibly soft and knitted right here in the USA. We do not recommend the use of diaper pins or Snappi fasteners with Thirsties Duo Hemp Prefolds as the fabric is knit and the sharp points on the fasteners may damage the fabric. We recommend trifolding our prefolds.

To use: Fold the prefold into thirds, and lay into a trim waterproof cover such as the Thirsties Duo Wrap or Thirsties Diaper Cover, and fasten hook and loop or snap closure. For added absorbency in the front for little boys fold the prefold down on top and then trifold.

Pros: Very absorbent, durable, soft, versatile, affordable

Cons: Takes extra time to fold

Stay Dry Duo Insert (exclusive to Thirsties)

Thirsties Stay Dry Duo Insert is a specialty that has two layers of our fast absorbing microfiber terry, topped with our stay-dry and stain resistant microfleece and snapped together with five layers of our buttery soft hemp jersey. Use the insert with a trim fitting cover to provide a snug fit.

To use: Lay the insert into the diaper cover, slide the insert and cover under the baby, and fasten hook and loop or snap closures.

Pros: Easy, quick, absorbent, affordable

Cons: Less coverage than a prefold or fitted diaper

Cover and Wrap

Covers and wraps are waterproof barriers that are used over fitteds, prefolds, specialty inserts, or flat diapers. The laminate inside of the diaper can be wiped clean between uses, allowing you to use the cover for 3-4 diaper changes before washing.

Thirsties offers our Diaper Cover and Duo Wrap as waterproofing options for your cloth diapers. The Diaper Cover comes in 4 sizes, has a generous cut, and the x-small features an umbilical cord cut-out. The Duo Wrap uses the duo sizing system and offers a trimmer fit.

To use: With the absorbent layer fastened on baby or placed inside the cover, slide cover under baby, and fasten with hook and loop or snap closure.

Pros: Light and pliable, double leg gussets, easy to use

Cons: 2 piece system that must be paired with absorbent layer

You can find this article here.