05 Novel Baby Essentials You Could Try - But First, Find Out More

The Mums and Dads at Marmalade Lion love our organic baby product collections. Yes, because we created them with a lot of thought to keep your bubs and ours, safe. But sometimes, we take some time to explore what new and improved tech you can find in the baby essentials market in Australia. These are a few of our favourites that we think you’ll love too!

1. Mooki Feeding Gear – “The One” Bottle & Formula Dispenser + Splash‑Free Bottle Brush Set

Mooki is an Aussie brand doing clever design work to solve some of the day‑to‑day feeding hassles.

What’s new & nice about it –

• Anti‑colic nipple (“teat”) shaped/textured to feel more like a mother’s nipple, helps with transition to bottle.
• Snap‑on cap design for the bottle so you don’t lose the lid when you’re out and about.
• Bottle brush with a twist‑handle and 360° silicone bristles so cleaning inside the bottle feels safer (less risk of splash or germs left behind).
• Formula dispenser with four compartments for pre‑measured feeds, nice for travel or daycare.

Things to check/consider –

• How often you really need all four pre‑measure compartments — if most feeds happen at home, maybe simpler works fine.
• Cleaning & sterilisation – silicone is great, but check how easy the parts are to sterilise, and whether the different components (nipple, cap, dispenser) are all dishwasher/steriliser safe.
• Cost vs usage – fancy feeding gear is helpful, but sometimes basic bottles + good cleaning + routines do the job well.

2. Brightberry Silicone Tableware & Suction Feeding Sets

When bub moves into food, mess becomes a full‑time job. Brightberry has been stepping up with stylish yet functional feeding sets.

What stands out –

• Suction plates/bowls that attach to high chair trays or surfaces so plate doesn’t slide or spill easily. Great for self‑feeding practise.
• Soft food‑safe silicone, free of BPA, PVC, phthalates etc. Less risk of breakage or health risks.
• Designs that are easy to clean, aesthetically pleasing, and well thought‑out (colour, shape). Not just functional but also enjoyable.

What to weigh up –

• Suction works best on smooth/flat surfaces; some high chairs or trays are textured. The suction might be weaker.
• Silicone is durable but can stain (from strongly coloured foods) or retain smells; regular thorough cleaning needed.
• These are more costly than basic plastic or stainless sets. If you expect heavy wear or multiple children, consider durability or budget.

3. Joolz Aer+ buggy

For those who are often out and about, travel a lot or need something compact yet comfortable, the Joolz Aer+ is getting praise in 2025.

Why it’s one to consider –

• Very lightweight (≈ 6.4 kg) but still with features like reclining seat, good suspension, and UPF50+ hood with ventilation so bub is shaded and cool.
• One‑hand fold fast; super helpful when you have baby in one arm or lots of gear to carry.
• Compact enough to fit in airline overhead lockers, which is a big plus if you travel.

What to find out more about –

• How much space the folded size takes in your car, storage, or lift/stairs. Even a “compact” pram can be bulky in small flats.
• How the suspension handles rough pavement, grass, gravel or uneven surfaces (Australia has a lot of that). If you live in suburban/rural areas, this matters a lot.
• Service/parts availability – tyres, fabrics, replacement hoods etc. Local after‑sales support can make or break long‑term satisfaction.

4. CuboAi Smart Baby Monitor 3

If you’re in the market for a baby monitor, newer models are doing much more than just “hearing cry”. The CuboAi Smart Baby Monitor 3 is being recognised as one of the more advanced picks.

What it offers –

• Real‑time alerts for various risks (e.g. face‑covered, rollovers, crying, coughs, danger zones) rather than just audio or video.
• Decent video quality (high resolution), and features like environmental monitoring (temp/humidity) and even sleep analytics. Useful if you like data or want peace of mind.
• Offers some memory / playback so you can check recent moments.

Questions to dig into –

• Privacy & security – any “smart” monitor means connection, storage or cloud‑features. Be sure the data is secure, firmware updated, etc.
• How power is handled – battery vs constant plug in; whether video is live, portable or tethered.
• Whether alerts are helpful or overwhelm you (false positives can be annoying). Some parents prefer simpler monitors for less stress.

5. Sleep & Soothing Tech – Elvie Rise Automatic Bouncer/Bassinet

If you want something that helps with soothing & sleep without constant effort, the Elvie Rise is pretty novel.

What’s different –

• It’s part‑bouncer, part‑bassinet – you can switch mode without disturbing the baby. Good if bub falls asleep while you’re still doing things.
• App‑controlled so you can set bounce patterns or let it repeat the soothing motion you prefer. Also follows safe sleep guidelines (firm mattress, breathable fabrics, retractable straps) up to a certain age.

What to double‑check –

• Price vs how long you’ll use it – it’s only designed up to about six months (or until baby starts pushing up on hands/knees / sitting) so might not be a long‑term investment.
• Power / noise / footprint – power supply, whether noise of motor bothers you, size in your nursery.
• Cleanability and fabric quality – removable covers? Breathability? Safety standards (Australian / international).

What “Novel” Means, and How to Choose

“Novel” doesn’t always mean “must‑have”, but rather “makes things easier / more clever / more comfortable” in small ways. When you're deciding –

• Think about how often you’ll use it vs how much it costs.
• Consider your lifestyle (travel, home layout, climate, space). Something ideal in the city may not be so in a rural area.
• Check safety standards – always. Especially for sleep / feeding / moving gear. Australia has specific regulations and recalls happen even for popular items.
• Don’t forget the simple stuff – sometimes a plain soft wrap, good basic bottles, and a comfortable routine trump fancy gadgets.