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Crying for a Reason: Decoding Your Baby’s Different Cries
Every baby cries, but not every cry means the same thing. We’ve enlisted Family Sleep & Wellness Coach, Lauren Moran from Little Dreamers, to help decode the different cries.
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Your Pregnancy Food Guide
When you're pregnant, what you eat matters more than ever. We’ve asked Sarah-Jane Simpson, a NZ Registered Dietitian, to break down the key foods to enjoy and the ones to avoid during pregnancy
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Pregnancy and the Pelvic Floor: A Physiotherapist’s Guide
Pregnancy and the accompanying hormonal changes can impact your pelvic floor muscles. We’ve asked pelvic health physiotherapist Liz Childs to break down what these important muscles actually do, how pregnancy affects them, and how to make sure they’re working well.
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Car Seat Expiries - What You Need to Know
Car seats are one of the most important safety products you'll ever use for your child. Did you know they typically have a lifespan of 6 – 10 years, depending on the brand and model? While it might seem surprising that something so solid and well-built would have an expiry date, there are good reasons behind it. Why Do Car Seats Expire? Wear and Tear: Over time, materials like plastic can become brittle and weaken, especially after sitting in a hot vehicle exposed to harsh UV rays. Even if a seat looks fine on the outside, internal components may have deteriorated, and this could potentially compromise the seat's effectiveness. Changing Safety Standards: Car seat technology and safety regulations evolve. An expired seat may not meet the latest standards or be compatible with newer vehicle designs. Considering a Second-Hand Car Seat? If you're thinking about buying - or accepting - a second-hand car seat, checking the expiry date should be your first step. Additionally, it’s important to: Ensure it hasn’t been in a crash: Car seats involved in an accident may have hidden damage and should not be reused. Make sure all parts are included: Without the original manual and components, proper installation may not be possible. The seat must also have its original certification label to certify it complies with one of New Zealand’s approved safety standards - NZ/AU, ECE, or US displaying yellow S sticker. Learn more Where to Find Expiry Information The expiry will either be from Date of Manufacture or from Date of Purchase (with a receipt) – depending on the brand. To check your seat, check the car seat expiry list here. Car seats generally have a label or stamped date on the shell that indicates the date of manufacture. This example above shows the date embossed on the shell – Date of Manufacture 4 June 2022 In this example the date is found stamped on the harness clips - Date of Manufacture August 2023 In this case it’s a sticker – Date of Manufacture 18 July 2024 The Bottom Line Your child’s safety is too important to leave to chance. Always check a car seat’s expiry before use - especially if you’re considering a second-hand one. When in doubt, it’s best to invest in a new, up-to-date seat that meets all current safety standards.
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Dimples Highchair Buying Guide
Choosing the Right Highchair for Your Baby 🍽️ When it comes time to start solids, your baby deserves only the best. A good highchair should be safe, ergonomic, and built to last — not just through the puree phase, but right through toddlerhood and beyond. One key feature to look for? A footrest. It might seem minor, but it plays a big role in supporting healthy hip development. Paediatricians note that having stable foot support helps babies build motor skills, which leads to better eating, improved concentration, and less fidgeting at mealtimes (win-win). At Dimples, we offer a carefully chosen range of highchairs that are beautifully designed and built with your baby’s comfort in mind. Here are some of our favourites: Stokke Tripp Trapp A timeless classic that grows with your child. The Stokke Tripp Trapp is fully adjustable, with height and depth settings on both the seat and footrest, so you can tailor the fit as your little one grows. The Tripp Trapp has two attachments available (see more on these below), so you can use the chair from birth - all the way through to adulthood! Designed to sit right up at the table, the Tripp Trapp helps make mealtimes feel like a family occasion, right from the start. It comes in a beautiful range of colours to match any home. Age range: From birth with newborn set; from 6 months with the baby set Weight limit: Up to 136 kg Tripp Trapp Newborn Set Suitable from birth up to 9 kg, the Newborn Set lifts your baby up to table height and surrounds them in a soft, nest-like seat. With two adjustable angles, great leg support, and a secure five-point harness, it’s perfect for safe and cozy bonding during mealtimes or family chats. Age range: 0–6 months (approx.) Weight limit: 9 kg Tripp Trapp Baby Set Once baby is ready to start solids, the Baby Set provides the right amount of support with a high backrest and secure harness. Add the Tripp Trapp Tray and Cushion for a complete mealtime setup that’s both practical and stylish. The cushions come in a range of lovely patterns to complement your kitchen décor. Age range: From 6–36 months (when baby can sit unaided) Weight limit: Up to 15 kg Stokke Nomi Highchair Designed by the same creator as the Tripp Trapp, the Stokke Nomi brings a modern twist to ergonomic seating. Lightweight yet incredibly sturdy, this highchair supports your baby from newborn through to adulthood. The flowing design offers excellent freedom of movement and encourages active sitting — important for developing posture and coordination. The footrest is easily adjustable without tools, and the chair's curved edges and organic shape make it a standout in any dining space. Age range: From birth with the Nomi Baby Set; from 6 months as a highchair Weight limit: Up to 150 kg Stokke Clikk Highchair Minimalist, modern, and made to make life easier. The Stokke Clikk arrives in one compact box and clicks together in minutes — no tools required. It includes everything you need: seat, tray, footrest, and harness. The ergonomic design supports your baby’s hips and posture, and the tray is dishwasher-safe for fuss-free clean-up. Add the Clikk Cushion for extra comfort, or get the Travel Bag if you’re heading away. Light, durable, and practical — this one’s a winner for home or holidays. Age range: 6 months to 3 years Weight limit: Up to 15 kg Nuna Bryn Highchair Sleek, sturdy, and thoughtfully designed — the Nuna Bryn is all about making mealtimes smoother. This highchair features an easy-to-adjust recline, a secure five-point harness, and a smooth seat surface that wipes clean in seconds. The tray is removable so baby can be brought closer to the table. With its clean lines and high-end materials, the Bryn blends beautifully into any home. Age range: 6 months to approximately 3 years Weight limit: Up to 15 kg Find Your Perfect Fit at Dimples Whether you’re after a highchair that grows with your child, fits your décor, or travels easily, Dimples has a range of safe, stylish, and practical options to suit your family’s lifestyle. Shop online or visit us in-store — we’re here to help you find the perfect seat for your little one’s next stage.
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The Secrets of Dimples Merino, Natures Miracle
Marvellous Merino – and How to Care for It Dimples high-quality Merino is made in New Zealand and designed to last – treat it with love and care and it will stay looking beautiful for years to come. Why Merino? Merino wool truly is nature’s miracle. Its warm, soft, breathable fibres keep your little one comfortable all year round. Because babies take time to develop the ability to regulate their temperature – and can’t tell us if they’re too hot or cold – Merino clothing and sleepwear offer peace of mind. The natural fibres form little pockets of insulating air, keeping warmth in on chilly days and helping release heat when it’s warm. Other wonderful benefits of Merino: Naturally hypoallergenic – gentle on delicate skin and suitable for babies with eczema, allergies, or sensitivities Naturally flame-resistant – without added chemicals Moisture-wicking – absorbs moisture while staying warm and drying quickly Stain-resistant – perfect for little spills and dribbles Keeps its shape – it stretches with your baby, then springs right back after each wash Made to Last Each Dimples Merino garment is lovingly hand-sewn and embroidered by our talented team right here in New Zealand. Crafted with care and attention to detail, these pieces are designed to last – ready to be worn, washed, and passed down through generations. To help your Merino stay soft, beautiful, and in great condition, it just needs a little extra love when it comes to care. How to Wash Merino Always check the garment’s care label first Do not soak – for stubborn stains, we recommend Sard Wonder Soap. Wet the stain in cold water, rub on the soap, agitate gently, then rinse thoroughly Use a wool-approved detergent like Earthwise Wool & Delicates. Dilute the detergent before adding to your washing machine – never pour directly onto the fabric Avoid detergents that contain eco-brighteners or enzymes, which can damage Merino fibres (even some ‘baby’ or ‘eco’ detergents) Use the wool wash cycle on your machine, or hand wash gently in cold water Rinse well, gently squeeze (no twisting), and lay flat to dry in the shade Never bleach, rub, soak or tumble dry. Merino prefers to be air-dried Cool steam iron if needed – and yes, it’s dry cleanable if preferred How to Dry Merino Merino should be air-dried flat in the shade. Direct sunlight can cause fading or damage, and tumble dryers are a no-go. How to Store Merino Because Dimples Merino contains no chemicals, it can be extra appealing to clothes moths. If you're packing your garments away for a while: Wash and dry them first Store in a sealed garment bag or container Clothes Moths – What to Watch For Noticed tiny holes? Pop the item into a sealed bag and freeze for 72 hours – this helps eliminate any moth larvae. After freezing, rewash the garment as usual. Shop the full range of our luxurious Merino here
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How to Choose a Car Seat
How to Choose the Right Car Seat – When You're Spoiled for Choice Choosing a car seat can feel overwhelming – especially when your baby’s safety, comfort, and your lifestyle are all at stake. With capsules, convertibles, boosters and everything in between, how do you know where to start? Here's a practical breakdown to help you compare the different types of car seats and figure out what’s right for your whānau. Capsule Car Seats Best for: Newborns to approx. 12 months (up to 13kg depending on the brand)What they are: Rear-facing, portable infant car seats that click in and out of your vehicle. Why parents love them: Can transfer a sleeping baby from car to stroller without waking them. Easy to carry with a handle. Most work with a base that stays in the car – simple click-and-go. Things to consider: You’ll likely only use it for the first year. Weight matters – some are much easier to carry than others. Great options to compare: Nuna Pipa Next – lightweight (only 2.8kg) and super portable. Nuna Arra Flex – features three recline positions - including a near-flat 157° recline on the stroller or when used as a carry seat. Cybex Cloud T – lies near-flat outside the car, great for stroller naps. Maxi Cosi Pebble 360 Pro – ergonomic recline, 360° base for easy loading. Nuna Pipa Urbn – ideal for city living or rideshares with built-in ISOFIX, no base required. Nuna Cari Next – a lie-flat carrycot that’s also a car seat – perfect for naps and spinal support. Convertible Car Seats Best for: Birth to approx. 4 years (or longer depending on the seat)What they are: Seats that start rear-facing and convert to forward-facing as your child grows. Why parents love them: Cost-effective – you’ll use it for several years. Often more spacious and padded than a capsule. Can remain rear-facing for longer, which is safest. Things to consider: Not portable – stays in the car. Check your car for what installation method you need (ISOFIX or seatbelt). Some have rotating bases to make buckling in easier. Great options to compare: Nuna Todl Next – works with a rotating base for easy access. Nuna Revv – built-in 360° rotation, no separate base required. Nuna Rava - seatbelt installed, and known for its simple installation, generous legroom, and plush comfort. Ideal for families who want a long-lasting seat without the need for a base or ISOFIX. Cybex Sirona T – comfortable, safe and easy to use with excellent recline and rotation. All-in-One (Convertible + Booster) Best for: Birth to approx. 11–12 yearsWhat they are: Car seats that transition from rear-facing to forward-facing to booster seat. Why parents love them: One purchase that lasts for years. Saves money in the long run. Ideal for parents who don’t want to keep upgrading. Things to consider: Not portable – stays in the car. No rotating options available. Great options to compare: Nuna Exec – rear-facing from birth, forward-facing to booster mode up to 148cm / 54kg. Britax One4Life Slim – rear-facing to booster mode up to 160cm / 54.4kg. Booster Seats Best for: 4+ years (or as per height and weight guidelines)What they are: Forward-facing seats that position the vehicle seatbelt properly across your child. Why parents love them: Simple to use and install. Gives older kids a good seat height and a view out the window. Often more compact. Things to consider: Only suitable once your child meets minimum size requirements. Great options to compare: Nuna AACE LX – adjustable height, recline, and side impact protection. Britax Skyline – affordable, comfortable, and lightweight. Maxi Cosi Titan Pro – grows with your child from toddler through to booster stage. Other Key Considerations Car fit: Not all seats fit all vehicles – check for compatibility, especially if fitting multiple seats. Ease of use: Consider rotating seats if you struggle with lifting your child in and out. Installation method: ISOFIX is quicker and easier, but seatbelt installs offer flexibility for older vehicles or travel. However ISOFIX does have lower weight restrictions (generally around 18kgs). If a seat allows for both ISOFIX and seatbelt installation it can pay to opt for Vehicle Seat Belt installation as it eliminates having to switch installation method once weight limits are reached. Longevity: Weigh up whether you want a dedicated seat for each stage or one that adapts as your child grows. Need Help Choosing? Our certified car seat technicians are here to help you make the best choice for your family. Visit a Dimples store and get personalised advice, try seats in your car, and enjoy our free professional car seat fitting with purchase. You can also take our handy quiz to find out what might work best for you here Whichever seat you choose, safety and comfort come first – and we’re here to make sure you get both.Shop the full car seat range online or in-store today.
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Which bed is right for your baby?
Choosing the Right Bed for Your Baby – What’s Best and Why Your little bundle is nearly here – how exciting! 🐣 One of the first big decisions you’ll make is where they’ll sleep. With so many beautiful options to choose from, it’s easy to feel a little unsure. Should you start with a bassinet or go straight to a cot? Do you want something that grows with your baby, or a cosy little nest for those early days? We're here to help you figure out what matters most – and which sleep setup will suit your family best. Bassinet or Cot: What’s the Right Starting Point? Your baby can sleep safely in either a bassinet or a cot from day one, but the best choice really depends on your space, routine, and preferences. A bassinet is ideal if you want: Your baby sleeping close by during those early weeks. Most bassinets fit comfortably beside your bed, making night-time feeds, nappy changes, and soothing much easier. A compact sleep space that’s great for small rooms, shared bedrooms, or apartments. Something easy to move around the house – bassinets are typically lightweight, so you can keep your baby nearby while you get on with your day. A cosier environment for your newborn. The smaller size can help babies feel more snug and secure, which may lead to more settled sleep. A short-term option before transitioning to a cot – especially if you plan to move your baby into their nursery after the fourth trimester. An easier height for recovering parents. The higher profile of most bassinets means less bending, which can be especially helpful after a C-section or challenging birth. At Dimples, we have several lovely options to choose from. The SnuzPod is a clever bedside bassinet that attaches securely to your bed, making night feeds and check-ins easier while keeping baby in their own safe space. If you love a natural, timeless look, the Nestling Moses Basket is a lightweight, woven option that’s easy to move from room to room and brings a beautiful softness to your nursery. The Snoozi Bassinet is another great choice – designed for safe co-sleeping, it offers mesh sides for airflow, a washable inner nest, and folds down easily for travel or storage. Each option has its own charm, and what works best will depend on your lifestyle, home setup, and how you’d like those early newborn nights to feel. Thinking Ahead? Choose a Bed That Grows With Your Child If you're looking for something that can go the distance – from those sleepy newborn days through toddlerhood and beyond – the Stokke® Sleepi™ is an outstanding choice. Starting off as a snug and secure Sleepi Mini bassinet, it gives your baby a nest-like sleep space in the early months. Its soft oval shape and breathable sides create a cocooned environment, helping your newborn feel safe and settled. But the real beauty of the Sleepi is what happens next. With a simple extension kit and a new mattress, it can transform from a bassinet into a full-sized cot! Then when your little one is ready, simply take one of the sides off and you have a toddler bed – suitable for children up to around 5 years old. It’s an investment that pays off – both practically and emotionally. Your child can grow up in the same bed they’ve slept in from day one. Beautiful Cot Options to Consider Not every family needs a full multi-stage setup – so here are some other wonderful options depending on your needs, aesthetic and space. Most also offer a toddler bed conversion once your little one is ready for the freedom to get in and out of bed by themselves. Here are a few favourites: Amara Cot Crafted from sustainable European beech, the Amara brings a calm, natural feel to your nursery. It starts with a higher mattress setting for newborns and easily converts into a stylish toddler bed with the optional conversion kit – perfect for parents wanting both form and function. Mackenzie Cot With clean lines and a single-tone finish, the Mackenzie adds warmth and simplicity to your nursery. It grows with your child by converting to a toddler bed and can be paired with the matching dresser for a cohesive look. Indi Cot A gentle boho option that pairs soft hessian fabric with natural tones to create a warm, grounded feel. Made from sustainable materials, the Indi Cot converts easily to a toddler bed for long-lasting practicality. Tommi Cot Subtle Scandi design meets versatility in the Tommi Cot. Available in white or oak finishes, it offers 3-in-1 functionality, growing from a cot to a toddler bed or daybed with the optional junior rail – a timeless piece that suits both modern and classic spaces. What’s Best For You? Every family is different. To help you decide, think about: Where your baby will sleep in the early months. How long you want your sleep solution to last. Your space – are you in a small home, apartment, or planning to move? Your lifestyle – do you travel often? Need a portable option? Your budget – are you wanting one long-lasting solution or buying in stages? We’ve carefully curated a range of sleep options to suit every family – whether you're after something compact, long-lasting, budget-friendly, or beautifully designed to match your nursery. There’s something here for every stage, every space, and every style. Browse our full range of cots, bassinets, and junior beds here, or pop in-store to see them up close – we’re always happy to help you find the right fit for your little one’s first sleep space.
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Trouble sleeping? Finding The Right Sleep Aid
Sleep Struggles? These Soothers Might Just Save Your Sanity 😴 There’s nothing quite like the hopeful moment when you lay your baby down to sleep… followed by the crushing sound of a whimper, shuffle, or full blown cry. If your little one finds it hard to settle, or just can’t seem to stay asleep - a good sleep soother could make all the difference. White noise and gentle sound machines help to mask the everyday background noise that can disturb your baby’s rest. Think: older siblings, barking dogs, or the neighbour deciding now’s the time to mow the lawn. These soothing sounds - like a heartbeat, waves, or soft shushing - mimic what baby heard in the womb, helping them relax and drift off more easily. We’ve curated a handy Quiz to help you make a decision, plus a small but mighty collection of trusted sleep soothers and calming aids below, that can help take the edge off bedtime - for both you and your baby. YogaSleep Hushh 2 White Noise Machine Compact, rechargeable, and seriously effective — the YogaSleep Hushh 2 is the sound machine you’ll wish you bought sooner. It offers several soothing sound options (including the classic white noise hum, surf, and gentle fan) and lets you customise volume and tone. The real standout is the glow-in-the-dark nightlight — gentle enough not to disturb baby, but just right when you’re fumbling for the dummy at 2 a.m. With a simple clip for attaching to prams, car seats or bassinets, this is your go-to for sleep on the move. Or, just clip it to your sanity and go about your day. No judgement here. YogaSleep Nod Sound Machine and Night Light The YogaSleep Nod is the ultimate stay-at-home sleep station — perfect for setting up a consistent, calming bedtime routine in the nursery. It features 20 sleep sounds, including white noise, fan sounds, lullabies, and nature tracks, so you can tailor the soundscape to your baby’s preferences. What makes it a standout? The built-in nightlight, which emits a warm amber glow to create a peaceful sleep space without overstimulating your baby. You can also set sleep timers or run it all night long — ideal for little ones who are easily stirred. Simple, soothing, and super customisable, the Nod helps create the kind of sleep environment you’ll both appreciate. Sleepytot Portable White Noise Machine & Nightlight If you’re looking for a multi-tasking marvel, the Sleepytot Portable White Noise Machine ticks a lot of boxes. It has a built-in rechargeable battery (USB charging = no more hunting for AAs), multiple white noise sounds to choose from, and a soft nightlight built in. Whether you’re heading out for the day or just trying to settle baby at home, this little helper is easy to toss in the nappy bag and use wherever you are. Simple to use, easy to love — and surprisingly effective when nothing else seems to be working. The Baby Shusher Sloth You’ve heard of the Baby Shusher — now meet its adorable new friend Shusher Sloth! This sweet sloth still uses the same rhythmic “shhh” sound that mimics a parent’s voice and taps into your baby’s natural calming reflexes. It’s a surprisingly effective technique (and one backed by science, not just tired parents). The sloth’s cuddly design means it doubles as a comfort toy, and the shushing sound is timed to switch off after 15 or 30 minutes — giving you a bit of peace without draining the battery. With a built-in timer and innovative sound activation, Shusher Sloth can listen for your baby’s cries and respond by soothing them back to sleep. Bonus: it’s small enough to take on the go, and far less exhausting than manually shushing for 45 minutes straight. Storytime and Soothing Light for Sweet Dreams Another beautiful way to support your child’s sleep is by building a calming, familiar bedtime routine – and the CloudBox™ helps make that easy. This clever little device plays comforting bedtime stories while gently projecting sleepy visuals onto the ceiling or wall. With a soothing mix of audio and light, it creates a multisensory environment that helps children wind down at the end of the day. You can choose from the preloaded stories or record your own – a lovely way to keep bedtime personal, even when you can’t be there in person. Repeating the same story or image each night can become part of your child’s sleep ritual, providing a sense of security and consistency they can count on. Simple to use and designed for children from birth and up, the CloudBox™ is a thoughtful addition to any nighttime routine – helping little ones feel calm, safe, and ready for sleep. Supporting Sleep, Naturally For many families, Magnesium Rescue has become a much loved part of their wind-down ritual. This gentle, topical formula is made from natural ingredients and can be massaged into your child’s back, tummy, or feet at bedtime. It’s designed to help support a relaxed nervous system – a simple, non-invasive way to encourage calm before sleep. Another lovely option is the Bedtime Bestie - a lightweight magnesium mist infused with calming lavender, designed to support relaxation and make bedtime a little easier. Simply spritz it onto your child’s back or feet as part of your evening routine. It’s a fuss-free way to help little bodies and busy minds slow down – one small spray at a time. Shop Sleep Saviours at Dimples now Whether you’re trying to improve naps, master the bedtime routine, or just desperate for an extra hour of sleep, our range of sound machines and calming sleep aids are here to help. Browse the full collection in-store or online and find the right fit for your baby (and your sleep-deprived self).
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