My Top 10 Baby Essentials
- Lindsey
- May 4, 2021
- 5 min read
Updated: Sep 15, 2022
These items and links are my personal favorites and are NOT affiliate links.
I will not receive compensation for any purchases made through the links I've provided.
My all time FAVORITE Diaper Bag
If you know me, you know I have a problem when it comes to bags. I have a different bag for every occasion, every outfit and in every style. I rarely used a bag for any length of time before and after kids. That is to say, until I found this one. This bag is a Fawn Design inspired diaper bag. I have tried an embarrassing number of diaper bags including a Fawn Design, which comes with a hefty price tag. I loved my Fawn Design diaper bag that was gifted to me and unfortunately stolen. I was anxious to purchase another after losing my first one; however, not everyone (including myself) is willing or able to pay nearly $200 for a bag that will undoubtedly collect crumbs, suffer spills and be thrown through the ringer and back if children are involved. I was hesitant to purchase this bag originally, but I've been pleasantly surprised. Not to mention my husband is willing to carry it! I have used it nearly every day for the last 2+ years and would recommend it over and over again.
Why it's my favorite:
- quality vegan leather
- easily wipes clean
-maintains it's structure even with constant use
-endless compartments for organizing
- huge storage capacity
-wears as a backpack, crossbody or shoulder bag
-light weight
-includes a changing pad and stroller hooks
-includes two insulated pockets for bottles or cold/hot foods
-inexpensive
-stylish and MORE!
Over all, I can't say enough about this bag. I've been using it for 2.5 years now and it has minimal wear and by far one of my favorite purchases. It comes in a variety of colors to suit your style and I promise you, it is well worth the $50 price tag.
The BEST Nursing Cover
If you are looking for full coverage, multi-functional, quality, affordable and cute, this cover is a must for your diaper bag essentials. This can be used as a nursing cover, carseat cover, scarf, highchair or shopping cart cover and I even use it as a blanket for my kids. It's very light weight, very soft, breathable fabric, one size fits all and the full coverage wrap prevents active little fingers or feet from exposing you while nursing. The wrap also comes in a large variety of prints to suit your style.
My Go-To Nursing Bras
These bras are super affordable, incredibly comfortable, machine washable and made of quality material (don't let the inexpensive price tag fool you!) I've used these for four nursing babies and admittedly after...you can't beat comfort! They also come in a pack of three and a variety of colors for every outfit! While they serve their purpose to simplify nursing, the only downfall I've found is that they don't provide the best support. I wear mine daily, but some women more well endowed may not find these suitable for their fuller chests. So shop accordingly!
An AMAZING Co-Sleeper
If you are anything like me and want/need your baby as close to you as possible while keeping baby safe, this is a WINNER! It's adjustable to your bed height and it has one retractable side providing an easy reach for night feedings. The feet of the sleeper slide right under your bed and you can pull the bassinet snuggly beside you. It comes with a newborn insert to keep baby more secure and as baby grows, its mesh walls allow you to see your baby fully while directly beside you. I couldn't speak enough about this sleeper. The only confusing thing is the title. It is called a "Glide Sleeper." I assumed this glided back and forth when I received it, but the only thing "gliding" are the feet on the floor in and out from beneath your bed. This will serve you well until baby is rolling!
The Coziest Sleep Sac
If you want to keep your baby warm while free of blankets for safe sleeping, I'd highly recommend this sleep sac. Not one of my babies enjoyed swaddling. This sleeper wears as a vest, leaving your baby's arms and hands free for self soothing. It's made of warm and breathable material. The sac zips from the top down for easy diaper access and it holds up well to daily use and regular washes!
Spray 'N Wash
If you have kids then you NEED to have a bottle of this in your laundry room. This stain remover eliminates everything from grass stains, to blood to NEWBORN POO! That's right, no more poo stained baby clothes! Give any soiled item a quick spritz, let it sit a minute, throw it in the wash and you'd never know it had a stain in the first place. It's been my saving grace when it comes to my kiddos clothes. Buy it.
Multi-Functional Pillow - The Boppy
This pillow is ideal for those first few weeks to early months of nursing. As baby grows it is a great for tummy time or a prop for resting your baby. It's also great as baby learns to sit on their own, it serves as a barrier and a little extra support as new muscles are developing. It's machine washable and comes with a protective slip cover. It will serve a purpose for you and your baby for nearly a year!
My Two Favorite Baby Carriers
Lille Baby Carrier Boba Baby Carrier
The Lille Baby Carrier is ideal for outings, hiking, walking...anything that's more active. It allows you to carry your baby in 6 different ways and up to 45lbs. It's simple to use and has some awesome added features like breathable mesh, pockets and even a sun cover to shade your baby. For infants, it has added head support to keep baby secure. This carrier will grow with you and your family and I confidently recommend it.
I wasn't able to find the exact cloth carrier I use. I use the K'Tan Baby Carrier, but the version I have is no longer available. The link I provided however, is nearly identical and the reviews are promising. I love the cloth wraps and I carry one with me everywhere. This wrap is most practical for home use or for an easy on the go carrier. It's very comfortable to wear, easy to use and secure for baby. It wears from infant to toddler and carries up to 35lbs. I use it for three of the four of my children. I can't live without it!
Nose Frida
If you don't have a Nose Frida on board, this purchase is a must! For pesky boogers or full blown head colds, this nasal aspirator is a life saver in helping your baby breath easier. I have used one for all of my children. It's simple and incredibly easy to use. Along with this nose sucker, I always have an infant spray can of nasal saline to help soften and loosen boogers or mucus to make sucking them out easier. Especially with infants, this aspirator is amazing for colds. Infants are natural nose breathers, so colds are the worst! This aspirator will ease their breathing and ease your mind. The concept is disgusting, but oddly gratifying. Your baby will thank you!
Portable Swing
Portable swings are shockingly underrated. This one is compact and easily stored away. I needed a swing that didn't take up half of my living room that was already crowded with kids and this swing has been a game changer. Forget the large plug in swing taking up your space and consider this! The only downfall is that it is battery operated, but if your baby isn't spending extended periods in it you'll find it has a pretty length battery life. It is also great for travel!
Well there you have it...my top 10 baby essentials that I swear by! I hope this helps any mama to be, first time mom, seasoned mom or someone simply looking for a baby gift. I promise these products are tried and true and in use at my home daily.
Happy Shopping!
Lindsey
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