If you saw my last post about what I packed in my hospital bag, you know I’ve been doing a lot of research, obviously as a first-time mom. The internet is both incredibly helpful and completely overwhelming at the same time (do I really need all these things?!).
Since bringing my baby home, I’ve been testing out different products, figuring out what I’ve actually found useful versus what just looks good on a registry.
I know so many of you are either expecting soon or just figuring out what you actually need when you bring baby home. So I wanted to share the stuff I’m using and loving, the things that have genuinely made this transition easier and reasons why they’re now part of my everyday routine.
If you’re starting your prenatal fitness journey, try a free 15-minute class and see what feels right for your body.
For getting out and about: I chose the Bugaboo Kangaroo Stroller which I love because it feels really premium and high quality. It also converts to a double stroller down the line, which saves you buying a new one if you plan to have a second baby :) BUT what if will say is that it’s heavy and bulky so you need the space in the trunk and prepare to work your biceps getting it in and out of the car… For the car seat I got the Nuna Pipa rx Car Seat which I’m moving and clicks in easily between the bugaboo stroller and the nuna base. I use both pieces daily.
The Ergobaby Embrace Carrier has become my favorite and the one I find myself using most. It’s perfect for little newborns and it’s super convenient for being hands-free and try to get some other work done. Plus, she usually falls asleep quickly once she’s in it with a bit of gentle bouncing and straight to sleep.
In the nursery: The Keekaroo Peanut Wipeable Changing Pad is lightweight and easy to move around. The wipeable surface makes cleanup so much easier and it’s non-toxic! I also got the Hatch Scale as a second changing table to keep track of her weight!
The Hello Baby Magnetic Gowns & Footies have been amazing. At 3 AM when I’m barely awake, the last thing I want to do is figure out complicated snaps or buttons. They’re also so soft and cozy!
The Hatch Go Sound Machine helps when she doesn’t want to sleep. It has different sound options, like white noise and you can clip it on or take it with you. Great for the car if it takes her a while to settle!
For bath time, the Small Story Bath Thermometer is cute and useful. It monitors temperature and lets you know if it’s too hot (above 100F), rechecking every ten seconds. It’s also a good toy as she gets older.
The Canopy Bath Filter is easy to install and helps reduce chlorine and irritants. It’s one of those small investments that gives me more peace of mind for your babies sensitive skin :)
The Frida 4-In-1 Grow-With-Me Bath Tub is also a great product I’ve found as it is adjusts as your baby grows. From newborn with reclined seating, assisted sitting, and independent sitting. It also includes an easy-drain plug and quick-dry hammock for easier cleanup.
For sleep: The Nanit Premium Bundle gives me even more peace of mind. I like that I can keep an eye on her while she naps even if I’m a couple rooms over. This one is a MUST. You can also bring it when you travel.
The Love to Dream Swaddle Up Sleep Sack allows your baby to sleep in a natural arms-up position and is also self-soothing to help them fall back to sleep on their own. I used this practically right after birth and it’s been great and so much easier than the swaddle blankets.
Yoofoss Muslin Burp Cloths are 100% organic cotton and are super soft and absorbent and they wash well. I prefer these other the others I got.
The SleepCarrier X is great for travel and for carrying around the house! She can sleep in it while I work or get things done and she’s on a flat surface - ideal for sleeping.
The baby essentials: The MOMCOZY Baby Wipe Warmer makes diaper changes less miserable. No need for a cranky baby during changing and the night light is really helpful for those 3am changes.
The MOMCOZY Electric Nail File makes clipping her nails easier as she grows and ensures there are no sharp pieces that could scratch her. I can’t believe how quickly their little nails grow!
The Butterr Nursing Pillow works whether you’re nursing or bottle feeding. It supports your baby and your arms, making feeding time easier and has been great for my recovery and comfort.
For baby care: I really like the products from Coterie, including their diapers, wipes, first wash, soft cream, and bun balm. They’re fragrance-free and hypoallergenic with natural, simple ingredients to keep baby’s skin soft and hydrated.
Around the house: The Blueland Laundry Essentials Kit is a clean detergent that’s plastic-free and helps remove stains while keeping baby clothes static-free.
The Cali Flange Recliner & Swivel Glider has been SO great for me, I feel like I sit in it all day! Whether I’m nursing or holding my baby while she falls asleep, a comfortable chair matters. This one swivels and reclines. Whether you get this or another option, a nursing chair is a MUST, which I didn’t understand until now.
The 2-in-1 Humidifier & Air Purifier removes airborne particles and works great for colder months. Having both in one product is convenient and great for babies to keep the air quality optimal.
All in all, these are the main essentials I’m loving right now. I felt like there was a lot on my registry I could have done without, or will use later down the line. If you’re expecting soon, I hope this helps you figure out what might actually be useful for you. Everyone’s baby and situation is different, so take what resonates and leave the rest! Less is more!