Our Baby Must-Haves

I wanted to put together a complete list of the most-loved and most-used baby items in our home after having two babies. During each pregnancy, I read so many reviews and blog posts about baby items because there are so many baby products out there. The truth is, you can do without a lot! So if you’re in that stage right now or looking for the perfect baby gift, I’ve gathered my favorites here so you can create an intentional baby registry.

A few tips to keep in mind:

*Shop first at consignment shops, Mercari, or marketplace. Many baby items are not used for very long so you can find them in wonderful condition secondhand.

*Kidsy is where we got our Doona for $150 cheaper because it was an open box. They have so many baby things!

*Every family is different and has different values. This is what has been helpful for us for both our children. I left off things we didn’t use the second time around. I try to be very mindful of what we bring into our home and if I truly need something. For example, we had a diaper pail but only used it for a few months before it got so, so smelly. We got rid of it and throw our diapers outside in the trash immediately.  

*With baby items the second time, I’ve thought, “Will this make things more difficult in the long run?!” Or “How long can I go without this?” For example, our second child didn’t like to be swaddled — so I haven’t forced it or keep trying because thinking back to our daughter, it felt like more of a hassle (not to mention more expensive!) in the long run. I’m sure this is different for every family! 

*I would highly recommend focusing on postpartum care for yourself as a mom (postnatal massage, pelvic floor therapy, chiropractic care, meal prep, comfy pajamas) as well. Make this known to your friends and family, and try to budget for these things. I’m sure they will understand if they’ve had a baby of their own and would love to support you in this way.

Baby Must-Haves:

Snuggle Me Organic - I love having this lounger to lay baby in and for them to take (supervised) naps in. We carry it around the house and I love that I can easily take it with us when visiting friends or going out of town. For the cover, I made it myself!

Wildbird Aeriel Carrier - I’ve heard it said to invest more in a carrier than a fancy stroller system and I wholeheartedly agree! I went back and forth between the Wildbird and Artipoppe and the reason I landed on the Wildbird is the linen design (linen is breathable and easy to clean!). I also resonate more with the brand and how they support you (their Instagram is full of helpful tips). I also liked that the carrier band is higher on the waist. I’m SO happy with this carrier and used it very early on. 

Doona - This convertible car seat and stroller is wildly convenient. Especially when you have two kids. My daughter LOVES pushing the stroller which makes it fun for everyone! I loved our stroller system we had for our daughter but the Doona is just hard to beat. 

Doona bag- I like this bag that clips on the back of the Doona while it’s being used as a stroller! My only wish is this one had pockets on the inside. This one has pockets so I would go for this one next time!

Babyletto Crib or IKEA Crib - If you want to save, the IKEA crib is perfect! If you want something to grow with your baby, we love the Babyletto Yuzu Crib that starts as a bassinet and grows to a toddler bed. It is great quality and we can roll it from room to room as a bassinet which has been really helpful in our small home.

Newton Mattress - 100% breathable and washable mattress. Trust me, you’ll be glad you can wash it!

Kimono Onesies - Many brands have this style of onesie like Quincy Mae, H&M and Love’d Baby.

Double Zip Onesies - These Old Navy onesies are just so good and inexpensive.  

Play Mat - There are many great playmats out there. I like this $30 option because playmats are only used for the first 6-ish months of life!

Rocker or Bouncer - We have the Charlie Crane Levo Rocker and while I love it (it’s so beautiful and will be passed down to our grandchildren!!) I do think the Bjorn Bouncer is the more practical item. I’ve used it at my sister’s house and loved it!

Stokke Trip Trap - This is my favorite baby item ever, probably because I just love mealtimes as a family. It grows with your baby and can be used well into childhood. I can’t imagine not having this over the past four years! Our daughter is four and still uses it daily to eat, paint, craft, and more.

Gathre Changing Pad - I prefer this simple mat that can be on a dresser or moved to the floor as a changing mat. We have the green color! We also love this wipeable folding mat for on-the-go changes.

Glass Bottle - Big fan of glass bottles! We’ve also used Lifefactory and Bibs bottles which I like have a sleeve for them to protect the glass.

Hand pump - I’ve found I just like having a hand pump more than a fancy breast pump. I think it’s one of those things you have to learn and see what works for you! I have been able to build a small stash with this pump with both kids. It’s simple and it works!

Primally Pure Baby Balm - I try not to use a ton of products on my baby’s skin but this tallow balm is so nice!

Millie Moon Diapers - these are our favorite. I love that they’re at Target so they’re easily available. We’ve tried many of the really nice diapers and for our babies, these win!

Coterie Wipes - hands down the best wipes. They’re thick and work wonderfully. When I’m out of these I go for the Millie Moon wipes.

Bibs pacifier - Both of our children have taken these pacis and they have the best colors and styles!

Bag Organizer - I recommend skipping the baby bag (unless you find one you love!) and getting a bag organizer and putting it in a tote or bag that’s your style. The great part is that you can move it from bag to bag.  

CPR Course - my sister bought this for me and I think every parent needs this!! It’s so important to be trained in what to do if a child needs help and it has come in handy for us more than once.

Canopy Humidifier - I never knew I could love a humidifier so much! This has helped us with seasonal allergies, clear skin, and an overall healthy home. The best part: It doesn’t grow mold like other humidifiers. COURTNEYWESTON10 to save!

Basket for Diapers - This could be any basket! Just having one close by in each room is helpful.

I hope this list is helpful for you. If you have any questions about anything on this list, reach out to me and I’d love to chat with you about it :)