One of my least favorite aspects of preparing for Oliver’s arrival was the influx of brightly colored plastic accoutrements that seem to go hand-in-hand with those first three years of babyhood. I had just gotten rid of nearly all of it, and now I had to start accumulating it all over again - and buy stock in Duracell.

So I was practically giddy when this Inglesina M’Home Loft Baby Rocker arrived. Not only is it sleek and modern - almost like a real piece of furniture - it’s basic black. And bonus points for the fact that it doesn’t take batteries.

Does Oliver like it? I’d tell you to ask him, but he’s sleeping peacefully as I write.

Like all Inglesina products, this rocker’s not cheap.  Retail price is $120, and it doesn’t vibrate or play Fur Elise.  But it is thoughtfully designed, both in terms of the baby’s comfort and safety and the parents’ sensibilities, and sturdily crafted too.  If you’re just starting a family and plan to have at least one more child, it’s a decent investment.

The M’Home line also includes two highchairs (the Zuma and the Club - I have to admit I’m drooling over both of them) and a combination changing/bathing station called the Spa.