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Nighttime parenting is hard enough without having to negotiate diaper changes, feedings and soothing sessions in the dark. The OXO Candela Guardian is the modern answer to the torches and lanterns our ancestors used to light their way during the wee hours.
The Candela Guardian consists of a charging dock that doubles as a nightlight and a handheld LED nightlight. The portable unit automatically charges when placed on the charger and lights up when removed from the base or in the event of a power outage (there is a power button on the bottom of the base to preserve battery life if you don't require constant light). Designed with kids, moms and the environment in mind, the Guardian never gets hot to the touch, holds a charge for eight hours and never needs new batteries. The Guardian emits a soothing yellow glow that is bright enough to illuminate nighttime activities, but won't disturb sleep if kept on a bedside table. At about $30, the Guardian may seem expensive for a nightlight, but will keep your family safe and sound for years.
During our first few nights home from the hospital, I slept with a bedside lamp on so I could easily change diapers and clothing, breastfeed and check on my little one. While the lamp definitely lit things up, I believe it significantly interfered with my and baby's already irregular sleep patterns. When the baby was only a couple of weeks old, I left the Guardian on all night for peace of mind. I now keep the Guardian in the baby's cosleeper and only turn it on when I need to check on him or perform a task. I highly recommend this product to all new parents, whether cosleeping or not. If your baby sleeps in a nursery, put the Guardian at baby's cribside or on the changing table at bedtime to illuminate your nighttime visits and comfort your little one. When your baby becomes a toddler, the Guardian is the perfect companion for late night trips to the bathroom or mommy and daddy's room.