Love, Laugh, Live Well: Must Have Monday Product Review

I've been thinking for awhile that I should blog about some of the items that I love and get to try. I often receive free products to try via Klout, Influenster and BzzAgent and participate by leaving feedback and reviews on their websites regarding the products.

The Must Have Monday posts will be reviews on the products that I love and use on a regular basis. Sometimes they'll consist of baby items, fitness gear, home, food and technology products. Basically, a little bit or everything. :) I'll be sure to post if these were products that were given to me or purchased on my own as well. I'll likely focus on posting a MHM post once or twice a month to begin with.

This weeks Must Have Product is the Swaddle Angel Blanket made by Munchkin. I LOVE these swaddle blankets.They are made of the softest material (100% rayon from bamboo so it's breathable and lightweight as well) and has a reinforced center panel on each blanket that helps to keep baby warmer without a ton of added bulk. One of my favorite things about them is the gorgeous designs that they come in. They're fashionable enough and don't scream "baby" like so many other products which is great because they are so versatile.

I am so glad that I happened to pick up a pack of these (comes with two) at Babies R Us because they are my hands down favorite blankets that we own. We use them each night to swaddle Aiden (I also use a flannel receiving blanket to keep him a bit warmer since it's been freezing here in Michigan for the time being). I think that these blankets will be great for using in the spring/summer when it gets warmer outside too. They are large enough that they could easily be thrown over a stroller or carseat to keep the sun out and have nifty loops on each corner to attach it so that you're not having to constantly adjust it. These loops are also really convenient for using the blankets as a nursing cover (I used this recently when at a family function) that won't overheat you or your little one.

I highly recommend these! I plan on picking up more of them soon because the two that I have is just not enough and I want to make sure to have plenty for the years to come (plus I really love the other patterns too).

Aiden all swaddled

Used as a nursing cover (just loop the blanket through the corner loops)

The gorgeous designs! (Image from the munchkin website)

I never used to swaddle our little one because he would throw a fit during the process. We started doing it after he kept waking himself up with his crazy, flying arms. We found that after the initial fit of crying, he would quickly calm down and sleep so much better through the night. Now he doesn't even mind the process of swaddling. If you're finding that your little one is fussy and waking often in the night (aside from feedings), I'd give swaddling a try. Below is a great diagram that walks you through the steps of swaddling. Remember to wrap them pretty tightly for best results (reminds them of life in the womb).