Best Websites for Reviews

A friend of mine, hi Amy,  recently asked me for sites that I recommended for researching baby gear.  Thought I would share my method with everyone. 

Usually the best resource is friends with kids.  No joke.  Some of the best things I use and own are things that friends who have been there recommended.  Sometimes not the "cute or adorable" option that I would have been led to make but two babies in I'm all about function.  The plus to that is there are a lot of creative people on etsy who have learned to make these used or ugly items cute and customized.  This is my daughters ugly worn fabric Britax carseat that I purchased a washable cover for on etsy.  I got to choose the fabric and it's reversible.  You just have to make sure that it is not going to jeopardize the safety of the object.  That is why I didn't opt for a padded comfy one.

If I fall short in response from friends, I usually go on the store site that I anticipate buying the item from and read the sites reviews.  For me this is usually Target, Walmart, or BabiesRUs.  Even if you found it or plan on buying it somewhere else, chances are they sell it at one of these three stores and they usually have ample customer reviews to go with each item.

If you still feel like you are yearning for more info, these are some sites that I do use.

http://www.consumersearch.com/

This site is not baby or kid specific but it is very thorough in its explanation and usually has a large pool of advice.  It also gives price comparisons and where the item is sold.  It has a brief easy to follow pros and cons listing.

http://www.parents.com

Lots of "top ten" style lists.  Not always budget savvy though.

http://www.classymommy.com/

I like this site if you have NO idea what you want.  The reason being there really is no specific search tool.  However, let's say you know you are in need of a double jogging stroller, there is a huge list of strollers that have been reviewed by moms with an easy to follow star rating system.

https://windsorpeak.com/sites/baby411/
This one I have not personally used but a friend has the app on their phone and loves it.  From what I read and heard it comes highly recommended.

Happy shopping :)