Parenting doesn't come with a manual, but the right tools can make all the difference. That’s why the scientists, product analysts and parenting editors in the Good Housekeeping Institute spent six months rigorously evaluating products and services for babies, kids of all ages and their caregivers.
Now in its sixth year, Good Housekeeping Parenting Awards continue to spotlight tried-and-true favorites along with innovative newcomers. Our team of experts reviewed data from the brands, tested products using specialized lab equipment and enlisted the help of over 300 parents to try the items in their everyday routines. These winners were selected based on factors like quality, value, innovation and convenience.
Meet the Winners
How We Tested
Before we even get hands-on with a product, we closely review the brand’s submission, including third-party data and certifications. We evaluate what claims are being made and flag any key details needed to ensure accurate testing. From there, we put the product through rigorous evaluations both in our Labs and in the real world with parents, who use the items at home and on the go. Here's what each product must go through before it gets selected as a winner:
☑Testing in the GH Institute Labs
To evaluate products in a controlled setting, we bring them into our Labs for side-by-side comparisons. During this process, we assess factors like durability, performance and safety. For example, when reviewing diapers, we conduct absorbency tests to measure how quickly each one soaks up liquid and how dry the surface stays under pressure. We also lay them out for testers to rate softness by touch.
Across categories, we run tailored tests: measuring field of view for baby monitors, external temperatures on bottle sterilizers and moisture output from humidifiers. Engineers assemble cribs, tech pros evaluate apps, and chemists analyze ingredient lists. We also use specialized equipment — from imaging systems for stain removers and UV cameras for sunscreen coverage to sound meters for tracking the decibel levels of sound machines.
All in all, each product is vetted by category experts who get hands-on to ensure we’re confident in the recommendations we make to families.
☑Feedback From Parent Testers
After completing a detailed recruitment survey, parents are matched with products to test in their everyday routines by analysts at the GH Institute. Each tester receives clear, in-depth instructions to ensure consistent use. After a set testing period, they complete comprehensive surveys that include both quantitative ratings and open-ended feedback.
These responses give our team valuable insights into everything from ease of use and comfort to overall effectiveness and real-world practicality. Testers also share what they liked, what they didn’t, and how the product compares to others they’ve used. Our experts use this feedback — alongside lab data — to get a complete picture of each submission and determine which products truly stand out.
Meet the Experts
A team of scientists, engineers, editors and product pros power the rigorous evaluation process behind the annual GH Parenting Awards. Each expert brings deep category knowledge — from chemistry and nutrition to textiles and tech — and plays an integral role in testing, analyzing and interpreting results. Whether they're assessing product claims in the Lab or reviewing real-world feedback from parent testers, our judges work together to identify the most impressive, reliable and helpful products and services for families.
Lexie Sachs (she/her) is the executive director of strategy and operations at the Good Housekeeping Institute and a lead reviewer of products in the bedding, travel, lifestyle, home furnishings and apparel spaces. She has over 15 years of experience in the consumer products industry and a degree in fiber science from Cornell University. Lexie serves as an expert source both within Good Housekeeping and other media outlets, regularly appearing on national broadcast TV segments. Prior to joining GH in 2013, Lexie worked in merchandising and product development in the fashion and home industries.