Products & equipment

In summertime, a family's thoughts turn to  paddling pools and here's one which doesn't have to be inflated, won't be be punctured by animal claws, is made from slip-proof material  and has eco friendly drainage – well done Peteast.

These HECCEI sunglasses are perfect for toddlers – a lightweight nylon frame which is ergonomically designed  for small faces and which changes colour in the sunshine while offering protection from both UVA and UVB rays. 

Shark PowerPro Pet Cordless Vacuum Cleaner is, according to Anne Coates, a brilliant machine which is easy to manoeuvre, cleans well, and is versatile from cobwebs in high corners, to stairs, and it knows the difference between hard and carpeted floors adjusting accordingly.

Every family – especially those with babies and young children – needs a reliable thermometer  in their medicine cabinet/first aid box. Anne Coates reviews the  Ear Thermometer from Femometer Family which gives an accurate result in one second.

Hydration is key to good health and is especially important when exercising or being out in the sun. Here's a great way to  to keep your water or drink ice-cool for 46 Hours – with the b.box 1 Litre Insulated Flip Top Bottle, writes Anne Coates.

Author and grandmother of three toddlers, Julie Newman, puts the b.box Roll+Go Mealtime Mat to the test for parents who look for convenience as well as functionality in their feeding accessories. Read her report here.

Anne Coates had been impressed by the quality of the Sofia Grainge Collection at Amazon Essentials. Here she reviews a two piece swimsuit with factor 50 sun protection.

The Mumgaroo Baby Sling is lightweight and easy to wear making carrying a child a lot more comfortable and convenient than some other brands. Anne Coates and granddaughter Lizzie tried out the sling – and both are delighted with it!

NETVUE Upgraded Baby Monitor offers peace of mind for parents and carers, writes Anne Coates.

The Li'l Davinci EZ Store & Display Art Cabinet made by dynamicFRAMES® is a picture frame with attitude – it stores up to 50 A4 Pictures and is a boon for parents, grandparents and all recipients of children's art.

b.box sippy cup is perfect for older babies and toddlers who like to hold their cups – without spills! Anne Coates reviews.

A great way to start the new year is with a super clean home but if, like me housework is not one of your favourite occupations, it's great to find a machine which makes vacuuming a pleasure which isn't time-consuming. Anne Coates puts the Hoover Cordless Vacuum Cleaner with Anti Hair Wrap & ULTRA COMPACT X3™, Red - HF2 through its paces.

Whenever and whatever we are celebrating from family occasions to Christmas, it's always wonderful to share good food. I and my family and friends have been tasting some amazing cheeses from Clawson Farms, and highly recommend them, writes Anne Coates. 

Anne Coates is wowed by the finamill® Pepper Mill & Spice Grinder in One.

Anne Coates wasn't sure what to expect with these cocktails in a box but was completely won over when she tasted the NICO Negroni.

Anne Coates reviews the Mico Toastie from Morphy Richards, the Judges Choice in the The Big Christmas Wishlist Awards in the Tech & Gadget category, and it's a winner for her too.

We like to test equipment comprehensively, so after Anne Coates reviewed the smarTrike Traveler ActiveStroller, her daughter Olivia took it on holiday to Portugal to see how it faired on the flight. Here are her thoughts along with her husband's.

Whether you're thinking of backpacking, day trips, commuting or school bags now is a great time to see what's on offer from Mountain Warehouse. Anne Coates tries out their Bolt Backpack.