Bugaboo’s latest version of the Bee, the Bugaboo Bee +, has incorporated many of the needed and wanted changes from the previous version.  I love the way the Bugaboo Bee + is a one-piece foldable stroller.  Meaning, once you click the button, it actually folds into itself making life with your baby just wee bit easier. 

For those who already know or have the original Bugaboo Bee, here is a list of features that have been “improved” or changed in the new 2010 Bugaboo Bee + version:

•  Seat reversing system – in the previous version, the reversing system was cumbersome and, to be honest, we dreaded the days when we were asked to demo this for a customer.  It never really went smoothly. Now, it is much simpler.  With just a few movements, you can have your child facing you or vice versus. 
• Adjustable fit – in the previous version, some had issues if they had taller children.  The newer version now features a height –adjustable backrest (4 height positions) ranging from 20 inches to 23.2 inches. 
• Backrest shape – new ergonomically shaped backrest with a natural sitting position for better comfort.
• Sun canopy – new shape that allows for extra space for the growing toddler.  One side note here, the canopy is a bit smaller than the previous version and big canopies are nice on sunny walks.  I, personally, favor bigger canopy to lessen the worry about sun exposure. 
• Seat width – a wider seat for a child to sit more comfortably (1.5 inches wider at the bottom of the backrest and 2.3 inches wider at the front of the seat).  The side padding, or wings as they were sometimes called, has been removed altogether from the newer version.
• Chassis width – the width has increased by .6 inches.  This is to improve stability and provide more room for the child.
• Wheels – are now made of a new rubber material and have a broader ridge for better performance.
• Height adjustable handlebar – 10 fixed height settings to keep the handlebar secure and prevent sliding.  The sliding was occurring when the user would try to open the stroller from the folded position.  As they pushed to open the stroller, the handlebar would sometimes slide and make it more difficult to open. 

There have been a few minor modifications as well.  First, there are only 3 reclines versus 4 in the older version.  The stroller weight is now 18.5 lbs.  And, the carry handle has been removed.  With these modifications, the only one I have an issue with is the less reclines.  I love having many reclines, but at least there are 3 and one is completely flat. 

All in all, the Bugaboo Bee + is a great compact stroller.  The changes they incorporated greatly improve the stroller overall – even taking into consideration the cons (my beloved recline, smaller canopy) with the newer version!

Interested in purchasing the 2010 Bugaboo Bee click here or if you have any questions, please give us a call at 866-934-BABY.

There has been a lot of stir lately about sling safety.  Since we are a huge proponent of slings, we felt we needed to write a bit about what we have learned from some of our sling manufacturers and share some information we have gathered.

With all things baby, safety is paramount.  The concern that has been a buzz on the Internet and which prompted The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to issue a warning, was for “bag- style” slings.  (See warning here:  http://cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml10/10165.html) The excessive material where the baby sits creates a deep pouch putting the baby in a dangerous curve-like position.  This position is believed to have lead to some suffocation of young babies.  It is important to note that of the reported suffocation cases, most of the babies were either premature, low birth weight, or had breathing issues.  However, caution of all babies of all ages is critical.

Pouch Slings or Wraps tend to be viewed as safer when used properly and as per the manufacturer’s instructions.  I came across a co-sponsored press release from various sling manufacturers to make people aware of the different types of slings and what makes a sling safer that I wanted to share.  (See report here: http://www.prweb.com/releases/2010/03/prweb3718984.htm).

As of today, there are no industry standards relating to sling manufacture.  As the government and concerned moms and dads look into this more, we will continue to post new information as we get it.  Even though the alert and buzz on the Internet is troubling, it is important to educate yourself, properly use all slings as per instructions and always keep a diligent eye out (like you already do!).