Bumkins

You may recall my enthusiasm for Bumkins long-sleeved bibs. The nifty shields keep things clean during eating hours, but they're also stain savers for art projects and cooking experiments. If you're a fan of them, you may be cheering for joy when you see the more affordable options!

Simple: The long-sleeved Ikea smocks with a catchall pocket on the tummy are a steal at $4 for a pair!
Swank: The original Bumkins bibs come in abundant designs and tie around the back of the neck for extra security. If a Dr. Seuss design suits your fancy, get ready to pony up $18 for the posh protector.

If you think a bib is a bib is a bib — you probably haven't checked out those made by Bumkins ($6). The waterproof food soakers have a pouch that catches the morsels of food that never make it into your lil one's mouth. When feeding my daughter a bowl of cereal or an over easy egg, I need a splash mat to shield the dribbling milk and flying yolk. But their sleeve bib ($16) has elastic rimmed cuffs that keep her clothes spiffy. And, the tie behind the back design prohibits her from ripping it off.

Similar to their standard bibs, the smock also comes in sprightly prints for lasses and gents alike. These bad boys are also PVC, BPA, phthalate, and vinyl free. Oh, and did I mention, they're machine washable!?