I found out I was pregnant with my second baby on my first baby’s 6th birthday. I decided that I would be more of a minimalist this time around and not buy all of the fancy baby items that I don’t really need. I’m a researcher by nature, and when I realized how many cool new items had been invented in the last 6 years, my impulse control went out the window. I don’t mind investing in items that I think will make my life easier, and some of these are definitely on the pricier side. But if you’re willing and able to spend a little more, these items are great!
For Diapering
Baby Bum Brush
Why I Love It: Let’s face it, rubbing diaper cream on your baby’s bum is messy and gross. This little gadget is a game changer. Diaper cream spreads evenly and easily. Get the two pack with the travel and full-size versions, trust me on this one.
Skip Hop Changing Pad
Why I Love It: You might think that spending more on a fancy changing pad is silly. You might be right, but I have no regrets when it comes to the Skip Hop Changing Pad. It’s waterproof and wipeable for the inevitable changing table accidents, doesn’t slide around on the table, and my two month old loves the attached mobile.
For On the Go
Twelve Little Companion Backpack
Why I Love It: I started with one of the pretty vegan leather bags that looks more like a purse than a diaper bag, but it was just so heavy. When I found the 12L Companion, it was love at first diaper change! This is a lightweight backpack is water resistant and has two insulated side pockets for bottles. There are plenty of pockets to hold all of your essentials, and it comes in several colors including Leopard and Camo. There’s even a mini version for those quick trips.
Marpac Hushh White Noise Machine
Why I Love It: This sound machine is lightweight, portable and LOUD. Your baby can sleep soundly with white noise anywhere you go with this amazing rechargeable sound machine. It includes 3 sound options and an Amber LED Nightlight.
Happy Baby Carrier
Why I Love It: I’ve used A LOT of baby carriers, and these days I’m digging the Happy Baby Carrier. It’s made of lightweight and breathable linen which means it keeps you and baby cooler and it folds up small to fit in a diaper bag easily. Super comfy and far less bulky than most other brands. And the customer service is top notch!
For Sleep Time
Woolino 4 Season Ultimate Sleep Bag
Why I Love It: This is the crème de la crème of sleep sacks. It’s made out of Oeko-Tex 100 certified merino wool and organic cotton which makes it hypoallergenic, great for temperature regulation, and naturally flame retardant. It is made to fit from ages 2 – 24 months, so while it’s expensive upfront, you won’t have to size up and buy additional sleep sacks as your baby grows. It’s even machine washable! I ditched all other sleep sacks when I found Woolino!
Hatch Baby Rest
Why I Love It: We are a big sound machine family. We have them in every room. This combines a great sound machine with a nightlight and ok to wake feature. From your phone you can control the sound, volume, light brightness and color. You can set favorites and create schedules for different sounds and/or nightlight colors to come on or turn off. The light is perfect for those middle of the night feedings and diaper changes.
For Formula Feeding Moms
Innobaby Packin Smart
Why I Love It: This stackable set is perfect for carrying formula in your diaper bag. I like to fill each container with different amounts so I can make any size bottle I need when we’re on the go. The opening is perfect for fitting into the top of a bottle so all of the formula makes it to the right place without spilling. Once you’re past the bottle phase, this is also great for carrying snacks!
Baby Brezza Formula Pro Advanced
Why I Love It: This is the Keurig of formula feeding. Pour the formula into the dispenser and fill the tank with water. When you’re ready to make a bottle, select the number of ounces and choose from 3 temperature options. Hit start and a perfectly mixed bottle is ready in seconds! This is great for those 3 am feedings when you can barely open your eyes to measure formula and makes bottle preparation a breeze!
For Breastfeeding Moms
La Vie Lactation Massager
Why I Love It: This handy vibrating massager is specially made to help make nursing and pumping more effective. It helps with milk output, clearing clogged ducts, and faster letdown. It’s made of medical grade silicone and waterproof. It can be recharged via USB. La Vie even makes a warming version!
Haaka
Why I Love It: It’s so frustrating to see all the milk that goes to waste when you’re feeding your baby and the other breast is leaking like a faucet. The Haaka solves that problem by collecting your letdown from the opposite breast. It also acts as a gentle manual pump. It’s simple , relatively affordable, and easy to clean. Many moms build up a freezer stash without having to pump by using the Haaka at each feeding.
Bamboobies Nursing Pads
Why I Love It: I love washable breast pads for reducing waste, and these are top notch. They are super soft, ultra-thin, and absorbent. They don’t show under your bra like many other brands and can be thrown in the washer and dryer.
For Playtime
Lovevery Play Gym and Play Kits
Why I Love It: I’m a little bit obsessed with Lovevery. I received the amazing Play Gym as a shower gift from my BFF and subscribed to the Play Kits myself. The Play Gym comes with everything you need to keep baby occupied through age 1. The Play Kits come every other month and contain beautiful, developmentally appropriate toys. All of the items from Lovevery use baby safe materials like sustainably sourced wood, organic cotton and silicone. You won’t find anything that’s plastic or needs batteries with Lovevery. The toys are simple and classic and the Play Gym and Play Kits come with ideas for how to use the items.
Baby Bjorn Bouncer with Toy Bar
Why I love it: I had heard other moms raving about this bouncer, but I couldn’t quite get the hype. I found a great deal and decided to give it a try, and I don’t regret it! This bouncer is lightweight and easy to move around the house. It also folds flat for travel or storage. The fabric can be removed and machine washed. It’s made to last from 8 lbs until approximately age 2, and you can buy different toy bars to mix it up for your baby.
