Baby + Mama Must Haves


When it comes to baby registries, lists, and other things to get for yourself and your new baby, it can be SUPER overwhelming. When I had my daughter 4 years ago, I had absolutely no clue what I was doing. I bought way too many things I didn't use, and ended up not having some things I actually needed. 

With baby #2 coming shortly, I wanted to write this blog post to let you know my favorite products for moms and babies, and hopefully shed some light as to why they are oh so important!

I've broken down different products by categories below, so you can check them all out, or scroll to whichever category you're interested in. Happy reading!

This post is sponsored by multiple brands. All opinions expressed are my own.

Baby Monitors

There are so many different baby monitor options out there. Being a worried mama, I knew with this babe that I wanted to get a video monitor that also will monitor heart rate/oxygen levels. Here are my two favs.

Owlet

Ever since having my daughter, I had heard great things about the Owlet monitor. People said it was a “must have” for newborns, and I was dying to try it for my next babe. 

It comes with a smart sock and camera, so I can monitor my baby’s heart rate and oxygen levels, all while being able to view him in real time from my phone. 

love how it all works together, too. The Sock Electronics use pulse oximetry to gather your baby's heart rate and oxygen levels. The electronics send your baby's heart rate and oxygen levels to the Base Station. The Base Station then sends your baby's heart rate and oxygen levels to your smartphone. 

Here’s where you can check it out.

AngelCare Video/Breathing Monitor

This is the monitor we’re going to be using for our babe once we move him into his nursery. I absolutely love this monitor for many reasons - first, it tracks activity and reports it immediately via a sensor pad that you place under the mattress. It provides me with peace of mind knowing that I will be alerted if no movement is detected after 20 seconds. 

The monitor offers the only wireless movement Sensor Pad in the market and features activity tracking, which reports on baby's movement levels. It’s perfect for newborns, and those starting to reach and explore. I love how I can also use it without the Sensor Pad for those early toddler years. 

You can check it out here.

Bottles, Pacifiers, and Accessories

Bottles...bottles...bottles. Any mom knows that one bottle type may not work for every baby, and there’s a strong possibility you may need to go through many different bottles before you find one that your baby likes. My first baby was super picky. She would only take 1 bottle type. ONE. With this baby, I wanted to be more diligent to get him a variety of bottles that had all my fav features. 

I am planning on breastfeeding, but also want my baby to be able to take a bottle in case I’m unable to breastfeed, or if I end up supplementing. Here are my go-to bottles.

Comotomo Bottles

I love the philosophy of this brand and how they’ve been innovative with their bottles. One of my favorite things is their bottles is that they’re designed to mimic breastfeeding to help babies easily transition back and forth from nursing to bottle feeding. It’s rescued so many families dealing with ‘nipple confusion’ and ‘bottle rejection’, which is a big concern for many moms who choose to breastfeed.

They also are designed to have two anti-colic vents - the good airflow helps to prevent unwanted colic, spit up, burping, and gas. Plus, there are no extra pieces, so cleaning them is a cinch!

Here’s where you can check them out.

Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Starter Set

This is one of my favorite starter sets. I love how it comes with a few different bottle sizes and nippes for variety. 

Some of the things I love the most about these bottles are that they provide an easy latch, natural feel nipple for a smooth transition between breast and bottle. The bottles themselves ensure less air intake and discomfort for babes because of their venting values. They also have super soft, natural feel silicone nipples, and the nipples themselves are slow flow so it’s more comfortable for the baby.

Here’s where you can check it out.

Ryan and Rose Pacifiers and Clips

I had heard such great things about Ryan and Rose that I was really excited to try them for our second babe. My daughter didn’t take a pacifier past about a week old, so I’m crossing my fingers this babe will love them. 

I chose a few different kids of Cutie Pats from Ryan and Rose. The Cutie PAT is a Pacifier and Teether in one. This multifunctional pacifier is made in two different stages: Stage 1 and Stage 2 to grow with your babe.  The Cutie PAT pacifier is made with 100% medical grade silicone, and is safe, non-toxic, and free of BPA, PVC, phthalates, and latex. The Cutie PAT was created with a dual purpose in mind: the pacifier side was created to soothe an infant/baby, and the teether portion was developed to aid with teething relief. I love how there are different nipple shapes as well (round and flat) in case your baby has a preference. 

I also picked up a few clips as well for the pacis. They’re super stylish, and will help us not lose the pacis (which, if you’ve ever had a baby use a pacifier before, you know is a common recurrence). 

Here’s where you can check them out.

MAM Bottles 

Another brand of bottles that I love are the MAM bottles. They’re super convenient for on-the-go because they come with lids so the bottles won’t spill. I also love how they have wide lids, so they’re super easy to clean. They also have a vented base to provide even air flow and help with preventing colic. 

Here’s where you can check them out.


Dr. Brown’s Bottles

Another favorite bottle brand of mine is Dr. Browns. I love how they have a built in internal vent system, so it makes feeding more comfortable for your babe (and helps prevent air bubbles that give them uncomfortable gas). This was one brand of bottles that continues to come recommended throughout the years, so it’s a staple in my cabinets for sure.

Here’s where you can check them out.


Dr Brown’s Pacifiers and Teethers

Another brand of pacifiers I love are the Dr. Brown’s pacifiers. What makes these pacifiers unique is they’re designed by a pediatric dentist! The 100% silicone bulb features a patented suction-free air channel and thin stem that reduce pressure inside baby’s mouth – helping prevent dental issues such as crossbite down the road. They even have glow-in-the-dark options, so you can find them easily at night.

I also love their teether options. I especially like how they incorporate varied colors and textures help baby develop and explore while relieving teething pain. Not to mention, they’re dishwasher and sterilizer safe!

Here’s where you can check them out.


MAM Pacifiers and Clips

These pacis are perfect for on-the-go as well. One of my biggest pet peeve is carrying paifiers loosely in my diaper bag. These come with their own sterilizing/transport box, so they’ll always have a special place in your bag! They were also designed with dentists for healthy dental development. 

I also love their pacifier clip. It’s super easy to attach, thanks to the wide opening. I’m a big fan of pacifier clips in general, so they don’t get lost and are less likely to get dropped!

Here’s where you can check them out. 

MAM Bottle Brush

I can’t tell you how many bottle brushes I went through with my daughter. First of all, I had no idea what features I would want in a bottle brush. I mean, I really didn’t think it would be that complicated. But, I found it more difficult to use some standard bottle brushes to get in tiny spaces. 

I love how the MAM Bottle Brush head is made from non-scratch silicone bristles that flex and fit in different shaped bottles and cups. The base of the brush is uniquely shaped to clean the inside of nipples. The soft brush also features a large hanging hole for easy storage and drying.

Here’s where you can check it out. 

MAM Baby Bottle Sterilizer

If you’ve ever used bottles before with your baby, you know how many they go through...and you know how annoying they are to get super clean. I’m always paranoid that, even though I thoroughly wash them, they’re not as sanitized as they need to be. 

I love how easy the MAM Baby Bottle Sterilizer is! You just pop your bottles in the sterilizer, put that in the microwave, microwave for 5 minutes, and voila! Clean bottles. You can sterilize up to 6 bottles at once, and if stored in the container, they’ll stay sterilized for 24 hours. Easy, peasy!

Here’s where you can check it out.


Dr. Brown’s Bottle Warmer

A bottle warmer was one thing that I did not purchase prior to having my daughter. I assumed she would drink milk cold...and man, was I wrong! So, a bottle warmer was a MUST for this babe.

I love how the Dr. Brown’s Bottle Warmer warms up milk fast! It’s super important for those middle of the night feedings...and when baby is hangry. I love that I can choose the cycle I want to use, too, so I have control over the temperature. 

Here’s where you can check it out. 


Diaper Accessories/Necessities

Before I had my first babe, I was so overwhelmed by all of the accessories, necessities, and things that you can buy for baby when it comes to diaper changes. Diaper pails? Wipe warmers? Do I need them all? Read on to find out my thoughts and why I love these products the most.

Ubbi Diaper Pail and Liners

Some people say diaper pails aren’t necessary. For me, having one is a TOTAL necessity. There’s nothing more annoying than taking out a gross diaper in the middle of the night. But, also it was important that I found a pail that locked out odors, so I wasn’t living in a garbage can every day. 

The Ubbi diaper pail is made of steel to achieve maximum odor control. It is equipped with rubber seals that are strategically designed to lock in odors as well as a sliding lid that minimizes air disruption, keeping the smell inside the pail. You can use their liners, which I have, but you can also use any liner, so you don’t have to worry about sticking to a brand specific liner in case you’re in a pinch (which is HUGE to me)! This feature makes it the easiest disposal system to load, use, empty and clean. And, it also has a child-proof lock, so your little one won’t get into it and make a huge mess!

Here’s where you can check it out.

Ubbi Diaper Caddy

I love having a diaper caddy because you can keep everything you need for a diaper change organized all on your changing table. 

The Ubbi diaper caddy has two main compartments for diapers and wipes, with a drawer for smaller items and a fitted space that includes a comfortable and easy-to-clean changing mat. The caddy also has an integrated handle and non-skid rubber feet allowing it to be carried around or stay safely in one place. While the Ubbi diaper caddy can store most disposable wipes dispensers, it was designed with a window that matches the Ubbi branded wipes dispenser’s window for parents to know when they are running low on wipes.

Here’s where you can check it out.

Prince Lionheart Ultimate Wipes Warmer

 

We started out using a normal wipe dispenser with my daughter, and after enduring multiple screaming diaper changes, we decided to try out a wipe warmer. And, it made all the difference with her diaper changes! This time around, we wanted both - a normal wipe dispenser, and a wipes warmer, so we could be prepared.

I ultimately chose the Prince Lionheart Ultimate Wipes Warmer this time around because they are the only wipes warmer treated with an EPA-approved anti-microbial additive to inhibit the growth of bacteria; non-browning; moisture retaining. So, basically, I know that my baby’s bottom is staying clean. It features the patented everFRESH® System which keeps wipes moist by an evaporation and condensation process, and has a little light to make nighttime changes easy!

Here’s where you can check it out.

Ubbi Wipes Dispenser

The Ubbi wipes dispenser is designed to make diaper changing duty easier allowing parents to pull one wipe at a time. Built to store a standard pack of wipes, including cloth wipes, the Ubbi wipes dispenser fits perfectly in most diaper caddies. The dispenser is equipped with non–skid feet, a rubber seal that keeps the wipes fresh and moist, as well as a clear window that allows the user to monitor the quantity of wipes left.

Here’s where you can check it out.


Bebe Au Lait Changing Pad Cover

I was searching for a changing pad cover that would not only be comfy for my babe, but would also fit with the decor of the room. I love the Bebe Au Lait changing pad covers! 

They’re made with 2 layers of soft, 100% cotton muslin, and they have so many cute prints to choose from! They fit standard changing pads, and are also machine washable (a MUST)!

Here’s where you can check it out. 

Parasol Clear + Dry Diapers and Wipes

When it comes to diapers, there are SO many options to choose from. One of my favorite brands is Parasol, for quite a few reasons! 

First, I love the fact that you can subscribe and have the diapers delivered straight to your door. It makes everything SO easy as a new mom, because it’s just one less thing you have to worry about (and you don’t have to go anywhere to get the diapers)!

I also love how the diapers are chemical-free. They have no chlorine, alcohol, dyes, chemicals, fragrances, lotion, parabens, phthalates, preservatives, latex or heavy metals. They have a special RashShield™ protection to hels prevent one of the major causes of diaper rash—prolonged exposure to wetness. And, they’re super absorbent and made with soft, breathable fabric!

Here’s where you can check it out.


Nursing and Feeding

Breastfeeding was the one thing I would say I underestimated before I had kids. I had no clue how hard it would be. It was emotionally and physically a challenge for me, so I’m so glad to have found products to help make my breastfeeding journey easier. 

Covered Goods Nursing Cover

This is a product that I used with my daughter, and will also use with this babe, too. There were many times when my daughter was younger that I wanted to nurse her, but still wanted to cover up when in public. 

Covered Goods is the industry's first four-in-one nursing cover—it can also be used as a car seat cover, shopping cart cover, or scarf. Covered Goods nursing covers allow your baby to breastfeed freely; there aren’t any straps, rings or cords to mess with, and each cover takes just seconds to put on and take off. The flexible neck is designed to be worn down under one arm to give you even more freedom while nursing. 

I love how they have multiple styles and patterns to choose from as well! Here’s where you can check them out.


Bebe Au Lait Bandana Bibs

I think bandana bibs are the cutest on babies! They are not only functional, but they add some style to your babe’s outfit. 

The Bebe Au Lait bandana bibs are my favorite because they’re super soft (made of muslin), so they won’t irritate your babe’s skin. They’re also not only perfect for feeding, but for teething, too! And, of course, they're machine washable.

Here’s where you can check it out. 


Elvie Pump

I plan on breastfeeding, and if all goes well, I would love to be able to pump to have some extra milk on hand for when my husband is home with the babe. One thing I wasn’t fund of when pumping with my daughter is the fact that I was tied to the wall via a power cord. I literally couldn’t do anything when pumping. I love how the Elvie Pump is portable and discreet!

With the Elvie pump, you can pump on your own terms - at home, at work or on-the-go. It’s worn inside a standard nursing bra, making it truly hands-free...and discreet! This is going to be perfect since I’ll have a toddler to chase around (no time to be glued to a wall)!

You can also connect to the free Elvie Pump app to monitor milk volume in real time, track pumping history for each breast and control the pump remotely.

Here’s where you can check it out.


Bedtime and Sleeping

You hear about safe sleeping all the time and how it's super important to get the right products for your baby...especially as an infant. I've found the ones below essential for not only safe sleeping, but for actually helping my baby sleep through the night.

Baby Delight Beside Me Dreamer Bassinet & Bedside Sleeper

I knew I wanted to have a bassinet that I could use beside my bed for all those nighttime wakings and feedings. It was also really important to me that I chose something that safe for sleeping...since so many products are actually not supposed to be used for nighttime sleeping. 

I ultimately chose the Baby Delight Beside Me Dreamer Bassinet & Bedside Sleeper because it was portable (so I could easily move it from one room to another...a MUST when also having a toddler), and because I could also attach it to my bed at night, too.

Not to mention that it has breathable mesh walls that keep air circulating, and it has six different height adjustments, so you can adjust it to the height that’s the most convenient for nighttime. 

You can check it out here.

Tommee Tippee Gro Anywhere Blind

You know those babies who can literally fall asleep sitting up? Well, my daughter was NOTHING like that. When she would sleep, she needed complete darkness. And, if she didn’t get that, let’s just say we had a really unhappy sleep-deprived baby on our hands. 

With this babe, we wanted to make sure that we were prepared...especially when we were out and about, visiting grandparents, etc. The Tommee Tippee Gro Anywhere Blind is a size adjustable, portable blackout blind that creates a dark sleep environment wherever you go. It attaches directly to the window glass using suction cups, so that you can make sure little ones sleep when you want them to!

Here’s where you can check it out.


Woombie Original and Grow With Me Swaddles

When it comes to swaddling, I knew it was so important for baby (and mama’s) sleep, and I wanted to choose swaddles that most closely mimicked the womb, so my babe would be as comfortable as possible.

The Woombie swaddle has received over 20 awards for design & innovation and has been nominated as “Moms Favorite Swaddle” for effectiveness and ease of use. It won’t unravel like a square baby blanket, and has lightweight fabric to avoid overheating. It also has stretchy but snug swaddling fabric to simulate the feeling of being held, touched & cuddled.

The Grow With Me Woombie is a perfect option to grow with your babe. It swaddles from 0-9m, then converts from a swaddle to sleeping sack for use up to 18 months. I love how you can use one swaddle for so long! They have so many cute patterns to choose from, too.

Here’s where you can check them out.

Ollie Swaddle

When I had my daughter, I knew pretty much nothing about swaddles. I didn’t even know HOW to swaddle. We originally tried going the route of swaddling with receiving blankets, and quickly found out that wasn’t going to work. She would constantly break out of her swaddle and wake up, so we knew we needed a better option.

I love the design of the Ollie Swaddle! The swaddle eases the transition from the womb, and reduces waking suddenly due to the Moro reflex or spontaneous arousal. They also have patented moisture-wicking threads interwoven into the fabric to reduce the risk of overheating, which is especially important in AZ. There’s also an opening at the bottom to make it easy for diaper changes.

Here’s where you can check it out.


Carousel Crib Sheet

Finding the perfect bedding can be such a daunting task! I wanted to make sure I was choosing a crib sheet that was comfy for my babe, but that also matched the nursery style and decor. 

I came across the Carousel crib sheets and immediately knew I had to have one! They have so many different fabrics and patterns available, and the best part is, you can customize the sheets! Their sheets are also made from 100% organic washable cotton, so that is a definite added plus.

Here’s where you can check it out. 

Dr Brown’s Cool Mist Humidifier

When it come to stuffy noses and coughs, it’s important to have a cool mist humidifer (or two) on hand. The first one I recommend is Dr. Brown’s Cool Mist Humidifier. 

I love the size of it! I’ve owned other cool mist humidifiers in the past that have run out water in the middle of the night, so I wanted to make sure this was large enough to last throughout the night. When your kiddo is sick, nothing is worse than waking up to refill a humidifier. I also love how easy it is to adjust the nozzle so you have control over the mist. 

Here’s where you can check it out.


Crane Humidifier

Another one of my favorite humidifiers is the Crane humidifier. We actually had this one for my daughter and loved it. We definitely wanted to have a couple on hand now that we have two kiddos, in case they get sick at the same time, which I’m sure will be inevitable.

One of the things I love about this humidifier is that it’s super quiet. It also has an automatic feature that will turn off the humidifier if the water tank is empty. Another bonus is that is has clean control antimicrobial material in the base that is proven to help reduce mold and bacteria growth up to 99.96%.

Here’s where you can check it out. 


Nursery Furniture and Decor

I'm super picky when it comes to furniture and decor. I want to make sure I choose furniture that not only fits my style, but that stands the test of time. I love the products below for different reasons, but mostly because they can all grow with my babe.

Karla Dubois Gogh Swivel Glider

A glider was something I was on the fence about getting before having my daughter. I wasn’t sure if I would really use it, or if it would just be more for looks in her nursery. Now, with the second baby on the way, I knew it was a MUST. I used the rocking chair multiple times every single day, and my daughter ended up loving it so much that she began using it herself when she graduated to her toddler years.

As soon as I saw the Karla Dubois Gogh Swivel Glider, I immediately fell in love with its modern design and different color options. Not to mention, it’s super comfy (which is also a must for those nighttime feedings). The Gogh is upholstered in quality soft-touch fabric and filled with plush cushioning for maximum comfort. 

Here’s where you can check it out.


Delta Children Perry 3 Drawer Dresser

There are SO many dresser options available, that it can be challenging to know which one is the right one for your babe. 

We were looking for something white that had a minimum of three drawers and an option for a changing mat on top, and the Delta Perry Dreser fit the bill. We really wanted to use our dresser as a changing table as well, because I personally feel like dedicated changing tables are a waste of space. And, I love how the changing top on this dresser is removable, so the dresser will grow with the baby as well. It's also the perfect size for a baby or toddler, and the drawers are really roomy! 

Here’s where you can check it out. 


Polymathmom 3D Wooden Sign

I was searching long and hard for the perfect piece above my baby’s dresser, and I stumbled upon Polymath Mom and their 3D wooden signs. As soon as I saw them, I KNEW I had to have one for my babe!

I was able to personalize the sign (from font to font color, to wood stain), and actually get access to their software to design my own sign and make sure it’s absolutely perfect prior to ordering. This was something that was so unique...and I love how I essentially got to create the sign for my babe! They have examples on their site, too, if you get stuck. :)

Here’s where you can check it out. 


Sun & Body Care

I'm one of those moms who researches skincare products before I use them on my kiddos. I want to make sure I have products that won't irritate their sensitive skin, and also smell great. The ones below are my favs!

Thinkbaby Baby Care Set

This set is amazing! It comes with 4 products - sunscreen, lotion, shampoo/body wash, and bubble bath. One of my favorite things is that the set includes full size products, too, so it’s not like you’re buying a travel set. 

The reason I love this brand so much is because it’s free of biologically harmful chemicals. No PABA, parabens, phthalates, BPA, oxybenzone, avobenzone, petroleum, gluten, dairy, or toxic chemicals. They have no animal by-products or testing, and are also top Rated on EWG’s Skin Deep with a "1" rating since 2010 (which is a great resource to use by the way). 

This is the sunscreen I used for my daughter when she was a baby (and still continue to use for her at 4 years old). So, naturally, it will be a staple in this babe’s suncare routine as well. 

Here’s where you can check it out.


Earth Mama “A Little Something For Baby”

I love this gift set for babes! It’s perfect for throwing in a diaper bag, or taking with you when traveling. And, not to mention, the scents are delicious! 

Here’s what’s included in the set:

Organic Diaper Balm - This diaper cream is so gentle! I love buying things I know will be good for sensitive skin, so this is a perfect fit. It also doubles as a skin salve!

Sweet Orange Baby Lotion - Comforts, soothes and moisturizes sensitive, delicate skin with some serious cream-a-licious vanilla and orange YUM.

Sweet Orange Castile Baby Wash - Gentle castile-based vanilla, sweet orange and calendula liquid soap makes bath time even sweeter. I love that it has NO artificial fragrance, triclosan, phthalates, parabens or sulfates. Because yuck.

Calendula Baby Oil - Virtually scent-free Calendula-infused grape seed baby oil blend moisturizes dry skin and scalp, and adds extra softness to your babe’s skin.

Organic Baby Face Nose & Cheek Balm - Ultra-rich organic calendula coconut balm soothes dry skin, drooling chins and drippy noses. It’s definitely a soothing organic alternative to petroleum jelly!

Here’s where you can check it out. 

Dr. Brown’s Baby Care Kit

There are a few necessities you need when it comes to hygiene for your babe. And, the Dr. Brown’s Baby Care Kit has some of the essentials all in one!

It’s perfect for a growing baby, too. It comes with a nasal aspirator, comb, brush, and rounded-tip nail scissors. It’s super easy and convenient to throw this in a medicine cabinet or a diaper bag.

Here’s where you can check it out. 


For Mamas

Babies aren't the only ones who need some love. From stylish bags to postpartum care, here are my must haves for mamas.

Lily Jade Diaper Bag

When I was pregnant with my daughter, I got a purse style diaper bag. And, while it was great and roomy, it was still a bit obtrusive because I felt like it would get in the way from time to time. I graduated to a backpack diaper bag, and it was SO much better! I loved the fact that it was hands-free.

I knew with this babe I wanted a diaper bag that would have the option of becoming a backpack, too. I needed something extra roomy as well because I would be carrying things for two kiddos this time around. I chose the Lily Jade Meggan bag, and it was perfect! It has SO much room, and also has the option to wear it as a purse or backpack (double win).

You can check it out here.

Earth Mama Herbal Perineal Spray and Balm

When I was pregnant with my daughter, no one warned me about the after birth stuff. Especially how going to the bathroom would be a big feat in itself. 

I am for sure bringing the Earth Mama Herbal Perineal Spray with me to the hospital, and it will be a staple at home as well. The Herbal Perineal Spray is a soothing touch-free herbal mist for pregnancy and postpartum use, with a clever upside down sprayer so it’s easier to reach hard to get places. With cucumber, organic witch hazel and organic essential oils, it's safe for both before and after birth. No parabens, propellants, benzocaine or artificial fragrance.

Here’s where you can check it out.


Earth Mama Organic Nipple Butter

When I started my breastfeeding journey with my daughter, nipple butter was a lifesaver. I didn’t realized how painful breastfeeding could be, and nipple butter made everything way better.

I particularly love the Earth Mama Organic Nipple Butter because it moisturizes dry skin, and is non-GMO Project Verified.  So there’s no need to wash it off before nursing! I also have been known to use this on my lips as well, when they get super chapped...win/win!

Here’s where you can check it out. 


Belly Boxes

This is a super fun subscription box that is perfect for treating yourself, or giving as a gift to any pregnant mama friends. 

You have free reign to choose your subscription duration (3, 6, or 9 months), and each month they’ll send you a box full of healthy full-size products, maternity apparel, and mama and baby must haves. It’s such a fun surprise to open the box every month and see what’s inside! Plus, it has allowed me to discover some products I absolutely love that I wouldn’t have known about otherwise.

Here’s where you can check it out.


Carriers

My daughter was never one to be content with being in a carrier. In hindsight, I should have tried different ones and started her early on to see if she would adapt. But, with this babe I’m determined to be able to wear him, so I can have more freedom to do things.

Tula Explore Baby Carrier

This was one of the carriers that topped my list. I love how the carrier will grow with the babe - you can use it from 7 to 45 pounds, AND no newborn insert is required (another bonus)! It has multiple positions to carry your baby including front facing out, facing in, and back carry (so he HAS to like one of those positions...right?!). 

Each position provides a natural, ergonomic position best for comfortable carrying that promotes healthy hip and spine development for the baby. There are also TONS of patterns to choose from. I chose Coast Beyond and Sleepy Dust, which are pretty neutral patterns that my husband and I can both wear.

Here’s where you can check them out.


Baby K’Tan Wrap/Carrier

So many carriers out there are super confusing to use. I’ve tried a few different brands and honestly wanted to give up because I had no clue what I was doing. One thing I love about Baby K’Tan is how simple the carrier is! 

It offers 5 different wearing positions for the various ages and stages of baby's development. You can use it from birth-35 lbs! And you literally just slip it on to wear...you just slip the K'tan wrap over your head like a necklace, put one arm through each side, and voila! It’s also made out of 100% cotton, so it’s super soft for you and your babe.

Here’s where you can check it out. 

Binxy Baby Shopping Cart Hammock

 

Shopping is inevitable...and when you have a baby, you want to make it as easy (and germ free) as possible. I’m a huge germaphobe, so I take extra precautions when it comes to those yucky germs that can be found out and about...especially when my babies are super little. With my daughter, I would set her infant seat in the grocery basket, but then I ran into the issue of barely having any room for groceries. 

The Binxy shopping cart hammock can hold up to 50 pounds! It quickly and easily clips onto most carts, hangs elevated so you have plenty of room for groceries, then simply rolls up to fit in your purse or diaper bag when finished. Most infant car seats sit snugly inside the Shopping Cart Hammock and can be secured using the included safety strap. I love that I have multiple options on how to use the hammock without compromising on cart storage!

Here’s where you can check it out. 


Bathtime

There are SO many bathtime products to choose from. From shampoos to body washes, to bathtubs in general...the list can be overwhelming! Read on to find out about some of my favorites.

Prince Lionheart Tubimal

I love this bathtub because it’s not only a bathtub, but can be converted into a storage bin as well! This bathtub grows with your child, too, so you don’t have to worry about buying separate tubs as they get older. 

The tubimal can be used for infants (it comes with an infant mesh sling), toddlers, and as a storage bin when kiddos are ready to use the normal bathtub. I love how easy this is to transport, too! I can literally take it anywhere (grandparents house, kitchen, family room), and give my kiddo a bath. It also has a plug to pull for easy drainage. 

Here’s where you can check it out. 


Puj Tub

Another bathtub I love is the Puj Tub. This particular tub is made from a soft foam that folds and conforms to almost any sink. If you don’t have the space to put an actual bathtub, or just prefer bathing your kiddo in the sink, this is your solution!

The Puj Tub cradles and protects the baby during bath time, and is mold and mildew resistant. When not in use, the tub can hang flat for easy drying. It makes clean up super easy!

Here’s where you can check it out. 


Bebe Au Lait Hooded Towel

I prefer hooded towels for babies over normal towels because they’re so cozy, and helps babies stay warm (body heat is expelled from their heads). 

I love how the Bebe Au Lait towel is made of the softest, plushest cotton terry cloth, and is super absorbent and extremely durable. The size is great, too, for swaddling infants and large enough to wrap around toddlers.

Here’s where you can check them out. 


Parasol Baby Shampoo & Body Wash

I personally gravitate towards shampoos and body washes that are lavender infused. Mostly because bathtime was a huge part in establishing my daughter’s nighttime sleep routine, and I wanted to make it as calm of an experience as possible. 

The Parasol Baby Shampoo & Body Wash is a two-in-one shampoo and body wash with 100% pure, therapeutic-grade essential oils. It’s made with a plant-based aromatic blend of lavender, chamomile and calendula oils to clean your babe’s hair without drying scalp, and nourishes baby’s sensitive skin as it cleans. It’s all natural with no parabens, fragrances, petroleum, sulfates, phthalates or artificial colors (super important to me)!

Here’s where you can check it out.


Blankets and Plushes

My daughter is a huge fan of her "friends" (stuffed animals) and blankets. It's always made her feel cozy when she's going to sleep and I'm not around. Below are my favorite stuffed animals and blankets that are soft, durable, and are loved for years to come!

Blabla Dolls - Edgar the Hedgehog

I love how soft and cuddly the Blabla dolls are! We own one for my daughter, and it quickly became one of her favs. 

I saw the Edgar doll and immediately knew I had to have him for our new babe! I love how the dolls are all handcrafted in Peru, and are made from 100% natural fibers. They also plant a tree for every doll sold on their webiste. Love their mission!

Here’s where you can check it out. 


Gund Stuffed Animals

Whenever I think of stuffed animals, I think of Gund. They’re classic! I knew I had to have some Gund goodies waiting for my babe when he arrives.

I stocked up on some Gund animals for the baby’s nursery, and for cuddle time when he gets older. I can’t even describe how soft their animals are! I actually snagged a few for my daughter, too, because as soon as she saw them and felt how cuddly they were, she was sold. I love how they have a variety of animals to choose from, in a bunch of colors to match your nursery decor. Not to mention, they’re super cute, too!

Here’s where you can check them out.


Tula Blankets

 

These blankets are literally the coziest! Made of 100% Viscose, which is produced from specially processed bamboo pulp, gives the blankets a plump, fluid softness that maintains a light feel while being ultra-soft. They’re not super thick either, which is important to me since it’s hot like 90% of the year in Arizona.

I love that they come in a variety of cute patterns and have multiple uses, too. They’re perfect for swaddling, tummy time or diaper changes, to snuggle with in their carrier or stroller, for shade or additional privacy when breastfeeding, and to snuggle in while they snooze. 

Here’s where you can check them out.


Carousel Blanket

I wanted a blanket for our baby primarily for decoration at first, but also to be able to use with him as he grows. I was happy to see that you can also customize the Carousel blankets, so I knew that’s what I wanted to do!

I chose a phrase, “Sleep Tight”, for this babe’s blanket because it’s something my mom always said to me as a kid growing up, and I find myself passing on that tradition to my kiddos. Like the Carousel sheets, you can choose from tons of different patterns for the blankets. They’re made with certified organic cotton with certified organic inks exactly the way you design it, then expertly sewn with a super-plush coordinating minky back. Super cozy!

Here’s where you can check it out. 


Cuddle & Kind - Elliott The Fawn

We’re big fans of Cuddle & Kind around here. My daughter has 3 of their dolls, and when I saw Elliott The Fawn, I knew it was the perfect first Cuddle & Kind doll for this babe!

I love the designs and animals that they choose. They are so snuggly soft, too! They are hand knit in Peru with premium 100% cotton yarn. And, the best part is for every doll that is purchased, they provide 10 meals to children in North America and around the world.

Here’s where you can check it out.


Hazel Village - Nicholas Bear and Lucas Rabbit

I love the Hazel Village animals and dolls! They’re so unique because you can select the doll as is, or you can customize their outfits. They have so many cute outfits to choose from. You can even purchase additional outfits separately, so you can swap out the outfits whenever you like.

You can also order a hand-stitched monogram to be placed on the doll, too. It’s perfect for personalization!

Here’s where you can check them out.


Playtime

Babies need playtime! It's important for their development, and helps stimulate them. Below are a few of my favorite products to help facilitate the play that babies need!

Lovevery Play Gym

When it comes to babies, playtime is more than just that...playtime. It’s a time where your baby is developing and learning, and it’s super important for their long term growth.

Lovevery’s award-winning debut product was designed by child development experts and includes everything you need in an activity gym- from batting to teething to learning to focus—for a whole year of play. Every single part of the activity gym was so well thought out. It has five development zones that reveal or conceal to prevent overstimulation and promote learning to focus, making sounds, how things feel, hiding and finding, exploring covers, and imaginative play. 

Here’s where you can check it out. 


Carousel Play Mat

This is the perfect tummy time mat! Tummy time is so important for a growing babe, and I love how the Carousel Play Mats are fully customizable! There are so many tummy time mats that have the same types of patterns, so I loved how I could build this play mat the way I wanted. After lots of deliberation, I ultimately chose a pattern that would match our nursery.

Every play mat is printed on antique white, certified organic cotton with certified organic inks exactly the way you design it, then expertly sewn. The batting is made from a recyclable hypoallergenic polyester fiberfill. It makes a perfect addition to your nursery, or an amazing gift for an expecting mama!


Here’s where you can check it out.

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So...what do you think? Am I missing anything? Hope this is helpful for all those first time mamas and moms who haven't had a little one for a while. 

xo!


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