How to Save on Safer Sunscreens [Plus Buy-It-Now Prices and Current Deals]

May 1, 2013 By 4 Comments

We’re approaching the sunniest season (yay!), and many of us will be buying sunscreen for our tots. Safer sunscreens for babies and kids can be pricey, though. Here’s a little help minimizing costs:

Prices on safer sunscreens tend not to vary too much over the course of a year. Unfortunately, some of the best prices on these products sometimes occur when few people are buying them– during the colder months. With a little luck, though, you should be able to save 20% or so off list price and even more if you’re lucky.

More Savings Tips

  • Watch for vouchers on sites like Groupon, Plum District and Living Social.
  • Scout for daily deals on sunscreens at sites like BabySteals and BabyHalfOff.
  • Sunscreen may be an allowed FSA expense. Check the details of your plan to find out.
  • Watch for site-wide sales and coupons at CVS.com, Walgreens.com and others.
  • Look for “Save when you join our mailing list” offers to save up to 20% or so.
  • Follow the brands’ Facebook pages for the scoop on sales and deals.
Online Retailers to Check

Amazon | Vitacost | The Vitamin Shoppe | Lovely Skin | Green Cupboards | Lucky Vitamin | Vitamins.org | Drugstore.com | Abe’s Market

Tip: Follow their Facebook pages or sign up for emails to be notified of sales and coupons.

The Sunscreens

Click through the links below for the current best price I could find on each sunscreen (price is in parentheses).

I chose these screens from SafeMama’s larger list based on her reviews and on price per ounce. Then I scoured the web to find the best deals currently.

To learn more about safer sunscreens and what makes them that way, do take a look at SafeMama’s 2012 Safer Sunscreen Cheat Sheet.

Note: If you’re unfamiliar with my buy-it-now prices, here’s the scoop: These “Buy It Now” prices are what I consider to be very good prices on the item. They’re the best sale prices you can expect to find fairly regularly, based on records of previous sales. Don’t confuse these with the “lowest price ever” price. You can beat this price if you happen onto a unusually great sale.

Have you tried any of these? What did you think?

Related: Safer and Cheaper Sunscreens for Babies and Kids: 9 Picks

See more posts with buy-it-now prices

Filed Under: Buy-It-Now Prices, Deals & Sales, Summer

Updated: Top Trikes Under $100 [Plus Buy-It-Now Prices]

March 21, 2013 By 1 Comment

A child’s first trike. What a fun milestone! With all the models on the market, you may need a little guidance about which one to buy.

First, what features should you consider? Push bars allow you to push and steer the tricycle for younger kids who can’t do it on their own. They cut down on frustration–both for you and your tot.

You’ll also want to consider other features, like whether the pedals can serve as footrests when the parent bar is in, whether the child can steer while you’re pushing, whether you can adjust seat and/or handlebar height as the child grows, and weight limits for the trike. Additionally, if the trike rides low to the ground, it may be less likely to tip.

Here’s a comparison of seven top selling trikes under $100 on the market that feature parent push bars. I’ve listed Buy-It-Now prices (i.e. very good sale prices), too. I’ve also listed a few specs on each trike below. Click through and find out more about each tricycle at the product description on Amazon. You can also read reviews there.

If you’re new to my Buy-It-Now price lists, here’s what you need to know: “Buy It Now” (BIN) prices are what I consider “very good” prices on the item. They’re the best sale prices you can expect to find fairly regularly, based on records of previous sales. Don’t confuse these with the “lowest price ever” price. You may be able to beat this price if you happen onto a unusually great sale.

Fisher-Price Rock Roll and Ride Trike: List price: $60  | Buy-It-Now price: $42

  • 18 months to 5 years
  • rocking toy for smallest users
  • base converts to (removable) push handle

Schwinn Roadster 12″ Tricycle: List price: $99.99| Buy-it-Now price: $69 |

  • 2 to 5 years
  • low center of gravity
  • steel frame
  • air tires

Fisher Price Grow With Me Trike:  List price: $37.99| Buy-it-Now price: $28.13

  • 24 months to 5 years
  • two-position adjustable seat
  • easy-grip handlebars and slip-resistant pedals

Radio Flyer Steer & Stroll Deluxe Trike: List price: $79.99 | Buy-it-Now price:  $55

  • 2-5 years (50 lbs.)
  • removable push handle
  • adjustable front seat
  • covered storage bin

Schwinn Easy Steer Trike: List price: $99.99 | Buy-it-Now price: $59

  • 20 months and up
  • removable push handle
  • 5-point harness
  • wide tires
  • Rear plastic bin, front basket, and removable canopy

Radio Flyer Classic 10″ with Push Handle: List price: $89.99| Buy-it-Now price: $50

  • 2-4 years (42 lbs.)
  • removable 3-position push handle
  • steel frame
  • rubber tires

Radio Flyer 4-in-1 Trike: List price: $60| Buy-it-Now price: $99.97

  • 9 months to 5 years
  • converts from a stroller to a steering trike, learning-to-ride-trike, to a classic trike
  • steel frame
  • adjustable seat
  • removable wrap around safety bars with cupholder and snack tray, and 3-point harness

If you’re still on the fence, check out the tricycle action at local parks and playgrounds and talk to parents about what they like and don’t like about the models they chose.

How about you? Do you have any of these tricycles? What do you love or hate about them?

Related:

Filed Under: Buy-It-Now Prices, Deals & Sales, Summer, Toys

Updated: Which Balance Bike is Best? [8 Top Bikes Plus Buy-It-Now Prices]

March 15, 2013 By 21 Comments

Whether you call them balance bikes, walking bikes or running bikes, the idea is the same–kids learn balance while riding these pedal-less bikes and thus learn how to ride a “big kid bike” more easily. Kids can use them as soon as they can walk and are big enough to sit on the seat and still have their feet reach the floor. We went the training wheels route with my son, and I soooo wish we had done the balance bike instead. I really think he would have learned to ride a two-wheeler more quickly.

There are a dozen or so models out there in wood, metal and plastic. Which is are best for you, and how much should you pay? I’ve updated this rundown of eight top models with links to the bikes at Amazon (so you can learn more) and Buy-It-Now prices.

Do pay attention to the seat height when you buy. Kids should be able to sit astride the bike and touch the ground on both sides. The seat should be about an inch less than the stride. The lightest bikes are easier to handle for smaller kids, but generally have lower weight limits. Weight limit may not be as important as you think. The primary age of use is about two to four years.

Wooden Bikes

Note: Steering is limited on this style of bike, however that can be a good thing because they can’t turn abruptly (which often leads to falls).

The Skuut Active balance bikes have a generous weight limit of 75 lbs. They feature spokeless rubber wheels and an adjustable saddle. List price: $100 | Buy-It-Now price: $60. 

Top-selling Smart Gear classic balance bikes offer spokeless rubber wheels, an adjustable saddle and a built in carry handle. 60 lb. weight limit. List price: $90 | Buy-It-Now price: $63.

Metal Bikes

The lightweight Strider ST-3 is the bestselling kids’ bike on Amazon, earning 4.5/5 stars from 127 buyers. It features and can hold kids up to 60 lbs. Great for the youngest riders. the ST-3  features adjustable seats and handlebars, a footrest, optional hand brakes and foam tires. A longer seat post is available for bigger kids. Available in eight colors.List price: $110 – $120 | Buy-it-Now price: $75.

Kazam bikes have a footrest built into the frame. They feature quick-release adjustable seats and inflatable tires with steel spokes. Weight limit; 75 lbs. Comes in five colors. List price: $110 | Buy-It-Now price: $95.

Glide Bikes Mini Glider Balance Bike: Features a high weight limit, hand brake, foot pegs, airless tires and “mountain bike geometry.” For kids 2 to 5 and up to 100 lbs. List price : $112 | Buy-It-Now price: $90.

Trikke Bikee Balance Bike:  This 7 lb. bike has been on the market for less than a year. It holds kids up to 60 lbs and features airless tires and a footrest.  List price : $70 | Buy-It-Now price: $65.

Plastic

The popular YBike is a fat little plastic balance bike that’s also a good choice for kids up to three years old. It has two back wheels for added stability and comes in four colors. #4 seller in kids’ bikes on Amazon. List price: $90 | Buy-It-Now price: $59.

PlaSmart’s PlasmaBike. This unique-looking newcomer on the balance bike scene is made by the folks who make PlasmaCar. Its wide wheels help with balance. This lightweight bike is for kids 18 months and up and up to 55 lbs. List price: $80 | Buy-it-Now price: $57.

Want to see the bikes in action? You’ll find lots of balance bike video reviews on YouTube. Just do a quick search to find them.

Note: “Buy It Now” prices are what I consider “very good” prices on the item. They’re the best sale prices you can expect to find fairly regularly, based on records of previous sales. Don’t confuse these with the current sale price or “lowest price ever” price (through they may be the same). You may be able to beat this price if you happen onto a unusually great deal.

Do you have any of these? What do you think? How did your child like a balance bike?

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Filed Under: Buy-It-Now Prices, Deals & Sales, Toys Tagged With:

Updated: Buy-It-Now Prices for 15 Popular Ride On Toys and Wagons

March 14, 2013 By Leave a Comment

Here’s a list of my Buy It Now (BIN) prices for 15 of the most popular, highest rated ride-on toys and wagons for toddlers and small children, freshly updated and expanded for 2013.

The BIN prices are in bold, and I’ve linked to the item at Amazon so that you can learn more. Use these prices to help you decide when to pull the trigger on a purchase and when to wait.

Note: Since these are heavy items, for the most part, you may be able to find them in-store cheaper. Just be sure your car is big enough to handle the boxes!

If you’re new to my Buy-It-Now price lists, here’s what you need to know: “Buy It Now” prices are what I consider “very good” prices on the item. They’re the best sale prices you can expect to find fairly regularly, based on records of previous sales. Don’t confuse these with the “lowest price ever” price. You may be able to beat this price if you happen onto a unusually great deal.

Little Tikes Cozy Coupe 30th Anniversary Edition: List price: $59.99 | BIN price $41 (30% off)

Fisher-Price Rock, Roll ‘n Ride Trike XL: List price: $74.99 | BIN price: $55 (27% off)

Schwinn Easy Steer Tricycle in Red/White: List price: $99.99 | BIN price: $59 (41% off)

Fisher-Price Laugh and Learn Stride-to-Ride Puppy: List price: $49.99 | BIN price: $40 (20% off)

Prince Lionheart Wheely Bug: List price: $70 | BIN price: $45 (36% off)

Step2 Push Around Buggy in red: List price: $49.99 | BIN price: $39.97 (20% off)

Radio Flyer Scoot-About: List price: $59.99 | BIN price: $39 (35% off)

Radio Flyer 4-in-1 Trike Red: List price $101 | BIN price: $95 (38% off)

Radio Flyer Big Flyer: List price: $92.99 | BIN price: $50 (46% off)

Razor A2 Kick Scooter: List price; $54.99 | BIN price: $30 (45% off)

Power Wheels Disney/Pixar Toy Story 3 Lil’ Quad: List price: $102.99 | BIN price: $70 (32% off)

PlasmaCar: List price: $69.95 | BIN price: $45 (36% off)

Radio Flyer Pathfinder Wagon, Red: List price: $119.99 | BIN price: $72 (40% off)

Radio Flyer All-Terrain Steel and Wood Wagon: List price: $178.49 | BIN price: $138 (23% off)

Radio Flyer Ultimate Comfort Wagon: List price: $199.99 | BIN price: $150 (25% off)

Related: 

 

Filed Under: Buy-It-Now Prices, Deals & Sales, Toys

Updated: Buy-it-Now Prices for 20 Top Outdoor Toys

March 13, 2013 By Leave a Comment

Spring is in the process of springing and the birds are singing–at least here in the South where I am. With the weather improving you may be considering picking up a few outdoor toys for the kiddos. How much should you spend?

Here are the Buy It Now (BIN) prices for 20 of the most popular, highest rated outdoor toys, freshly updated and expanded for 2013. The BIN prices are in bold, and I’ve linked to the item at Amazon so that you can learn more.

Use these BIN prices to help you decide when to pull the trigger on a purchase and when to wait. Since these are heavy items, for the most part, you may be able to find them in-store cheaper. Just be sure your car is big enough to handle the boxes!

If you’re new to my Buy-It-Now price lists, here’s what you need to know: “Buy It Now” (BIN) prices are what I consider “very good” prices on the item. They’re the best sale prices you can expect to find fairly regularly, based on records of previous sales. Don’t confuse these with the “lowest price ever” price. You may be able to beat this price if you happen onto a unusually great sale.

Sand and Water Tables

Sandboxes

Playhouses

Climbers and Playground Toys

Sports Toys

And don’t forget: You can save even more on these items if you can find them second-hand at Craigslist, a yard sale, etc.

See more Buy-It-Now Prices

Filed Under: Buy-It-Now Prices

Updated: “Buy It Now” Pricing on 10 Bestselling Double and Tandem Strollers

February 27, 2013 By 2 Comments

I’ve updated this post with new BIN prices for 2013. I switched out a few strollers in favor of some that are more popular now and linked to the strollers at Amazon so that you can find out more and view current prices.Enjoy!

How do you know when it’s time to pull the trigger on a stroller purchase? I’ve analyzed sale prices on ten of the most popular double and tandem strollers to find the “Buy It Now” prices.

These “Buy It Now” prices are what I consider “very good” prices on the item. They’re the best sale prices you can expect to find fairly regularly, based on records of previous sales. Don’t confuse these with the “lowest price ever” price. You can beat this price if you happen onto a unusually great sale.

The Strollers:

Note: Looking for stand and ride strollers? Check the posts below.

Related:

Filed Under: Buy-It-Now Prices

Updated: “Buy It Now” Pricing on 12 Bestselling Strollers [$150 and Up]

February 26, 2013 By 1 Comment

I’ve updated this post with new BIN prices for 2013. I switched out a few strollers in favor of some that are more popular now and linked to the strollers at Amazon so that you can find out more and view current prices.Enjoy!

How do you know when it’s time to pull the trigger on a stroller purchase? I’ve analyzed sale prices on twelve of the most popular single strollers with list prices of $150 and up to find the “Buy It Now” prices.

These “Buy It Now” prices are what I consider “very good” prices on the item. They’re the best sale prices you can expect to find fairly regularly, based on records of previous sales. Don’t confuse these with the “lowest price ever” price. You can beat this price if you happen onto a unusually great sale.

The Strollers:

Related:

Filed Under: Buy-It-Now Prices

Updated: “Buy It Now” Pricing on 10 Bestselling Strollers Under $150

February 25, 2013 By 1 Comment

I’ve updated this post with new BIN prices for 2013. I switched out a few strollers in favor of some that are more popular now and linked to the strollers at Amazon so that you can find out more and view current prices.Enjoy!

How do you know when it’s time to pull the trigger on a stroller purchase? I’ve analyzed sale prices on ten of the most popular strollers under $150 to find the “Buy It Now” prices.

These “Buy It Now” prices are what I consider “very good” prices on the item. They’re the best sale prices you can expect to find fairly regularly, based on records of previous sales. Don’t confuse these with the “lowest price ever” price. You can beat this price if you happen onto a unusually great sale.

The Strollers:

Note: The Baby Jogger City Micro has a list price above $150, so it’s not included here. It’s a good choice at this price point, and we have seen deals as low as $99 on it.

Related:

Filed Under: Buy-It-Now Prices

Updated: “Buy It Now” Pricing on 13 Bestselling Car Seats

February 22, 2013 By Leave a Comment

I’ve updated this post with new BIN prices for 2013. And good news! I was able to bump BIN prices on several of the seats down a bit. I also switched out a few seats in favor of some that are more popular now and linked to the seats at Amazon so that you can find out more and view current prices. Enjoy!

How do you konw when it’s time to pull the trigger on a car seat purchase? I’ve analyzed sale prices on a dozen of the most popular infant, convertible, 3-in-1 and booster seats to find the “Buy It Now” prices.

These “Buy It Now” prices are what I consider “very good” prices on the item. They’re the best sale prices you can expect to find fairly regularly, based on records of previous sales. Don’t confuse these with the “lowest price ever” price. You can beat this price if you happen onto a unusually great sale. I’ve also told you who has the best price right now on the seats.

The Seats:

Chicco KeyFit 30 infant car seat in Adventure: List Price: $180 | Buy Price: $151 (16% off)

Graco Snugride 35 infant car seat in Rittenhouse: List Price: $160 | Buy Price: $136 (15% off)

Britax Chaperone infant car seat in black: List Price: $230 | Buy Price: $159 (31% off)

Safety 1st onBoard 35 Air infant car seat in Great Lakes: List Price: $200 | Buy Price: $138 (31% off)

Britax B-Safe infant Car Seat in Black: : List Price: $180 | Buy Price: $133 (26% off)

Safety 1st onBoard 35 Air infant car seat in Great Lakes: List Price: $200 | Buy Price: $138 (31% off)

Britax Marathon 70 G3 convertible car seat in Onyx: List Price: $290 | Buy Price: $210 (28% off)

Britax Boulevard 70 G3 convertible car seat in Onyx: List Price: $320 | Buy Price: $233 (25% off)

Graco MyRide 65 convertible car seat in Coda: List Price: $150 | Buy Price: $123 (18% off)

Diono Radian RXT convertible car seat in Shadow: List Price: $340 | Buy Price: $239 (30% off)

Safety 1st Complete Air 65 Protect convertible car seat in Galileo: List Price: $180 | Buy Price: $149 (17% off)

Safety 1st OnSide Air Protect convertible car seat in Bedrock Black: List Price: $90 | Buy Price: $68 (24% off)

Britax Frontier 85 combination booster car seat in Rushmore: List Price: $280 | Buy Price: $210 (25% off)

Graco Nautilus 3-in-1 car seat in Matrix: List Price: $180 | Buy Price: $129 (28% off)

See more posts with Buy-It-Now prices.

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Filed Under: Buy-It-Now Prices, Deals & Sales

BC’s Baby Bouncer and Rocker Buying Guide [Plus Buy-It-Now Prices]

January 10, 2013 By Leave a Comment

Though I’d stop short of calling them a necessity, baby bouncers and rockers can be a handy place for baby to hang out with the rest of the family or catch a few ZZZs. Prices range dramatically, starting at under $25 for a basic model and topping out over $200 for a sleek european model. As with swings, Fisher-Price models are the top sellers.

With the exception of a couple of models listed here that convert to toddler rockers, babies will only use bouncers and rockers until they’re about 25 lbs. (sometime around a year old for many babies). and will probably enjoy using it for far less time than that– another great reason to do some serious bargain hunting.

Wait for a great sale (30% off or more) or try to find a gently used one at your local kiddie consignment shop, on Craigslist, or at a yard sale or consignment sale. A quick check of my local Craigslist board today reveals several gently used bouncers from $10. Just remember to check for recalls before you buy.

When choosing a model, look for non-skid feet, good bouncing/rocking/gliding action, and a three point harness. Popular extras include vibration, music, lights and toy bars.

Top Bouncers and Rockers

Here’s a rundown of the most popular and highly rated baby bouncers and rockers out there. I’ve linked to the items at Amazon so that you can learn more and read reviews.

Note: “Buy It Now” (BIN) prices are what I consider “very good” prices on the item. They’re the best sale prices you can expect to find fairly regularly, based on records of previous sales. Don’t confuse these with the “lowest price ever” price. You may be able to  beat this price if you happen onto a unusually great sale.

Fisher-Price Infant To Toddler Rocker. Grows with your child. Infant seat converts to toddler rocker for use up to 40 lbs. List price: $49.99. BIN = $35 to $40, depending on model.

Newborn Rock n’ Play Sleeper. List price: BIN = $40. This item has been recalled and is currently unavailable. I expect it to be available for sale again soon.

Fisher-Price Bouncer (My Little Snugabunny Bouncer, Rainforest, Luv U Zoo, etc.). Basic bouncer with vibration. List price: $39.99. to $44.99. BIN = $34 to $36, depending on model.

Tiny Love 3 in 1 Rocker Napper. Three reclining positions. Converts from baby seat to napper. Later converts to rocker for use up to 40 lbs. List price: $99.99. BIN = $73

Fisher-Price Soothing Motions Bouncer. Motorized bouncer glides front to back or side to side. Two gliding speeds. Seat rotates 360 degrees. List price: $99.99. BIN – $75

Baby Bjorn Babysitter Balance: Three seat positions for play, rest and sleep. Stylish, but pricey. List price $189.95. BIN: $127

Tiny Love Gymini Bouncer: Features adjustable arches, lights and vibrations. Two reclining positions. List price: $54.99 BIN = $42.50

Bright Starts Bouncer (budget buy). Vibrates. 3-point harness. List price: $24.99. BIN – $22.49

4Moms Mamaroo Classic. Similar in motion to the Sweetpeace, the Mamaroo bounces up and down and sways from side to side. mp3 jack. Plug in only. BIN = $197

Related: BC’s Baby Swing Buying Guide [Plus Buy-It-Now Prices]

Filed Under: Baby Gear, Buy-It-Now Prices, Deals & Sales, Swings and Bouncers
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