Today, I wanted to share with you some of my absolute favorite baby must-haves. Now, before we dive in, I just want to throw this out there: this list is more of a guide. We all know every baby is a unique little nugget, and what works for one might not work for another. Trust me, I’ve been through the whirlwind of motherhood twice now, with my second munchkin hitting the 4-month mark. So, let’s rewind to those early days and chat about the essentials that kept me (relatively) sane.
Let’s kick things off with the ever-adorable subject of clothing. Now, hear me out, you don’t need to go all out on tiny garments. In my case, my little one surprised us by being a tad smaller than expected, prompting a desperate dash for preemie-sized outfits. Pro tip: snag some hand-me-downs or scout for second-hand treasures. And get clothing with zipper instead of buttons. Babies grow faster than weeds, and those cute onesies might only last a hot minute. Plus, let’s be real, everyone will want to gift you an adorable onesie or ten.
Speaking of essentials, let’s dive into the world of nursing products, because let’s face it, mama needs some TLC too. First up, the MVP of my nursing journey: the Haka silicone pump. It’s a game-changer for collecting that liquid gold, if you catch my drift. Next in line is a top-notch nursing pillow. Trust me, finding the right fit is crucial. Don’t be afraid to borrow a friend’s to test the waters. My initial Boppy didn’t quite make the cut, but the “Breast Friend” won my heart. Seamless nursing sesh, ahoy!
Now, let’s talk about those adorable yet surprisingly messy little creatures. Burp cloths are lifesavers, especially if your tiny human enjoys treating you to a little “return of the milk” surprise. Start with a small pack and let your baby’s habits guide you from there. Oh, and invest in a reliable breast pump, because building that milk stash is no joke. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.
Ah, sleep, the elusive treasure every parent yearns for. Enter the hero of nap time: the sound machine. Ours goes by the name of Hatch, and boy, does it work wonders. From mimicking the soothing sounds of a washing machine to lulling your little one into dreamland, it’s a game-changer. Sleep sacks and sleep gowns are a godsend for those midnight diaper changes. Quick changes, minimal fuss—what more could a sleep-deprived parent ask for?
Let’s not forget the miscellaneous must-haves! A baby nail clipper and filer for those teeny-tiny nails that seem to grow at lightning speed. Trust me, it’s a nail-saver. And speaking of sanity-savers, invest in a wipeable change pad. I ordered, the Ava + Oliver Vegan Leather Baby Changing Mat from Amazon, and this has made life so much easier. No more laundry marathons, just a quick wipe-down and we’re good to go.
When it comes to getting around, a trusty stroller is key. I was gifted the Doona Infant Car Seat & Latch Base that’s been a dream. But I’ve got a soft spot for baby-wearing too. There’s something special about keeping your bundle of joy snuggled up close. Baby carriers are a lifesaver, especially during those on-the-go moments. Wraps were a favorite when our little munchkin was smaller, and now the BabyBjorn Baby Carrier Harmony, is our go-to for everyday adventures.
Last but not least, create a comfy space for your little explorer. A soft mat or a playful play gym is essential for keeping those tiny hands and feet happily occupied. Our Coco Village play gym has been a hit, providing endless entertainment and exploration as our little one grows.
That is some of my go-to list of baby essentials. And hey, if you’ve got any must-haves that have been a game-changer for you, drop them in the comments. Let’s help each other navigate this wild, wonderful journey of parenthood!
