The Baby’s due date is coming up quickly, and we are pulling out all the baby gear. I donated or tossed all my girl clothes after Penny, so I had to get a new wardrobe for baby girl. I know there is SO much floating around the internet regarding baby items, so I tried to keep it as simple as possible because, when it comes down to it, babies dont need much (;
GEAR
Car Seat – We went with the Britax B-safe car seat, safe, easy to install, and attaches to most strollers with an adapter.
Stroller – When we just had one kid, we got the bob stroller based on reviews and recommendations. It did not disappoint; our car seat can click into it, folded up nicely, and stored well in our one-bedroom apartment. When we had more than one kid, we went with the Baby Jogger City Select double stroller and added the glider board so that I could push around three kids. Now that Amelie is old enough to walk and hold onto the stroller, I’m keeping our stroller situation as is. If you are looking for an umbrella stroller, here is a sturdy and affordable option.
Baby carrier – I love the Solly wrap for the newborn stage because it is soft and snug; the Wild Bird is another favorite, in my opinion, the easiest and quickest to put on. If you’re looking for just one, I would say the ErgoBaby is the way to go – heavy-duty, last the longest, and with the infant insert works great for the newborn stage.
Bassinet/crib /pack play – We’ve never done a nursery and always had the baby in our room for the first 6-8 months, then transition into a crib or pack play. I opt for sleepers that are conducive to smaller spaces. If you are looking for ONE sleeping space, Packnplays, with the bassinet combo is the best option since it will last until toddlerhood, and you can pack up and move around. Or if you want something cuter but not a full-size crib, our mini crib lasted us up until the kids were ready to transition into a bed. This time around, I plan on cosleeping but will have a bassinet in our room (scored a beautiful Design Dua basket and stand from Facebook marketplace), and then transition into either packnplay or crib.
Swing – We have the 4moms swing; it’s lasted all three babies and still in great shape. I like to have a place in the living area to set the baby down throughout the day. Here is another option, not too large and affordable price.
Diaper Bag – There are many beautiful and expensive diaper bags out there. I’m currently using the skip hop backpack, and it’s held up nicely, but if you are looking for a cute and affordable option, Ive also used the Mockaloo bag for several years.
CLOTHES
I use these quantities as a rule of thumb for every stage (0-3, 3-6, 6-9, 9-12.) My goal is typically to fit all baby’s clothes (for each stage) in ONE drawer.
8-10 Onesies (5 long, 5 short)
6 zip-up footie pajamas
4-6 seasonal outfits
2 swaddles
1-2 hats
1-2 sweaters/jackets
6 socks
3 bibs
1-2 Blankets
10-12 Burp cloths
FEEDING
Breast pump – Check with your insurance company; most will send you a breast pump! Ive always used the Medela, and it works great for me. Ive heard good things about the Elvie pump, but I can’t justify spending the money on something I can get for free, but the convenience does seem luxurious.
One set of Bottles – before you buy a whole set, wait until the baby is born and try out a few different brands. The same goes for pacifiers; these two items babies tend to be picky. My kids have always taken the Avent bottles and MAM pacifiers.
Haakaa – An item I didn’t know I needed, but has become a must-have for me. Essentially it collects milk as you nurse, and for someone who tends to have an oversupply, it is an enormous help.
CARE
Diapers – I like either Huggies or pampers. Ive tried the cheaper brands but always had an issue with leaking.
Wipes -pampers sensitive wipes.
Bathtub seat – Ive used this for all 3 kids, last all through baby’s’ first year. fits great over the sink and love that it has a seat for when baby outgrows sling.
Diaper rash cream – My go-to is Tubby Todd all over ointment and anything skin related.
Shampoo body/wash – Tubby Todd. I became a believer when it completely cleared my daughter’s eczema.
Bulb syringe/Nail clippers/Soft hairbrush – This set comes with all you need for baby care.
If you dont have a changing table or station, I suggest getting a caddy or basket to put all things baby care in one place. I snagged this one from amazon and will be using it for diaper/feeding organization.
Diaper pail – When we had our first baby, we registered for the Ubi diaper pail, which is $$$ Just go with the diaper genie; it works just as well, if not better.
PLAY
Board books – books with high contrast, bold print and lines, and black a white pictures are great to play with for babies, as they help with focus and concentration development.
NICE-TO-HAVES
Lounger or pillow – I love our snuggle me; many raved about the dock-a-tot. I would not say this is a necessity, but so nice to have.
Glider and ottoman – these are expensive and often times large. I do love have a rocker and found a beautiful Pottery Barn chair from Facebook Marketplace. If you are going to get one, go for one with a tall enough back so you rest your head.
Sound machine – I did not put it as a necessity bc we just played white noise on our phones for the first 2 babies.
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