I have been working on this post for a loooooong time, wanting to make
sure I really was able to speak to the usefulness, reliability &
our overall satisfaction with some of the major purchases on our baby
registry. I am a research nut when it comes to picking baby products,
but also insist on finding the cutest stuff out there at the same time.
I have broken the registry down into nursery, feeding, gear & essentials. I feel like these are the most important items to include on a registry (or purchase yourself of course). I have left out clothing, furniture & all extras like lotions, detergents, etc. because I really think those items vary so much for everyone (and every baby!) and honestly, that list could go on FOREVER.
Now, let's get to the good stuff! First up, our favorites for the nursery!
First Years Sound Machine
- Great selection of white noises, can be very loud, hooks up to your ipod & can be set to no timer. An essential for getting your baby to sleep well!
- Great selection of white noises, can be very loud, hooks up to your ipod & can be set to no timer. An essential for getting your baby to sleep well!
Summer Infant Video Monitor
- This monitor is a must have! A great peace of mind when you are able to literally see your baby breathing through the night vision camera.
- This monitor is a must have! A great peace of mind when you are able to literally see your baby breathing through the night vision camera.
Crane Humidifier
- We have two of these, one in our room & one in the nursery. Especially handy for when you are pregnant (dry nose) or when your little one gets their first cold. Also, could it be any cuter?
- We have two of these, one in our room & one in the nursery. Especially handy for when you are pregnant (dry nose) or when your little one gets their first cold. Also, could it be any cuter?
Halo SleepSack
- For when your baby learns how to bust out of the baby burrito, you'll want these on hand for bedtime. A wearable blanket so you don't have to worry about suffocation, and they keep your little ones toasty warm & cozy.
- For when your baby learns how to bust out of the baby burrito, you'll want these on hand for bedtime. A wearable blanket so you don't have to worry about suffocation, and they keep your little ones toasty warm & cozy.
Summer Infant Changing Pad
- Just happens to be the brand we chose (I think any would do) but worked out well since it fit with any changing pad cover & we were able to attach it to the changing table.
- Just happens to be the brand we chose (I think any would do) but worked out well since it fit with any changing pad cover & we were able to attach it to the changing table.
Nap Nanny - Only purchase this if you think you want your baby to sleep 10+ hours per night (insert sarcasm font here). The Nap Nanny ROCKS. Keeps your baby in a comfy, secure, propped up position for ultimate sleep-through-the-night-ness. We were so thankful to our great friends for giving us this (they can't sing enough praises about it either!) ...it was honestly a saving grace for us in getting our crazy baby to sleep (which I ultimately think taught her amazing sleep habits from early on). UPDATE: I am aware that the Nap Nanny has been recalled, however, if used properly AND with caution/supervision, it should not pose any threat to a baby. As long as your baby cannot sit up or roll over on their own, they should be perfectly safe sleeping in the Nap Nanny if securely buckled in. I stand behind this product 100% and plan to use it again in the future.
- Only purchase this if you think you want your baby to sleep 10+ hours per night (insert sarcasm font here). The Nap Nanny ROCKS. Keeps your baby in a comfy, secure, propped up position for ultimate sleep-through-the-night-ness. We were so thankful to our great friends for giving us this (they can't sing enough praises about it either!) ...it was honestly a saving grace for us in getting our crazy baby to sleep (which I ultimately think taught her amazing sleep habits from early on). UPDATE: I am aware that the Nap Nanny has been recalled, however, if used properly AND with caution/supervision, it should not pose any threat to a baby. As long as your baby cannot sit up or roll over on their own, they should be perfectly safe sleeping in the Nap Nanny if securely buckled in. I stand behind this product 100% and plan to use it again in the future.
Fan
- Definitely important to have in the nursery (not only as a preventative measure for Sids, so I have read) but to help regulate temperature & provide a little extra background noise. Plus, this one is really freaking cute.
- Definitely important to have in the nursery (not only as a preventative measure for Sids, so I have read) but to help regulate temperature & provide a little extra background noise. Plus, this one is really freaking cute.
Aden+Anais Swaddle Blankets - Ingredients for the perfect baby burrito! These are the best (and cutest!) blankets of all time... great for not only swaddling (and snuggling!) but the perfect lightweight carseat cover for cool weather or germ protection. We bought 8 before Harper was born & hubby couldn't understand why we "needed so many"... now he looks back & laughs saying he totally gets it now!
- Ingredients for the perfect baby burrito! These are the best (and cutest!) blankets of all time... great for not only swaddling (and snuggling!) but the perfect lightweight carseat cover for cool weather or germ protection. We bought 8 before Harper was born & hubby couldn't understand why we "needed so many"... now he looks back & laughs saying he totally gets it now!
Moving on to feeding essentials! Some of this will differ if you are breastfeeding or formula feeding, but these are just my recommendations! :)
Boppy Pillow
- Great for a million reasons, but most importantly for great positioning for breastfeeding from the very beginning. Then they transition to tummy time & a comfy little prop for baby later on. Also, if you buy the boppy bare naked pillow, then you can find adorable covers on Etsy!
- Great for a million reasons, but most importantly for great positioning for breastfeeding from the very beginning. Then they transition to tummy time & a comfy little prop for baby later on. Also, if you buy the boppy bare naked pillow, then you can find adorable covers on Etsy!
Medela Pump in Style Advanced
- This is the breastpump that I used (and was recommended to me by tons of other moms) & I can't say enough good things about it. Although part of me would like to roast it in a bonfire because exclusively pumping SUCKED (long story...we'll come back to this another time)... the pump itself is fantastic and so worth the money. Plus, the dorky bag is extremely handy! :) TIP: Make sure you get lots of extra pump parts... when you are spending most of your day breastfeeding or pumping, the last thing you want to do is rush to clean/sanitize those parts before the next feeding. I recommend 3-5 sets of every pump part.
- This is the breastpump that I used (and was recommended to me by tons of other moms) & I can't say enough good things about it. Although part of me would like to roast it in a bonfire because exclusively pumping SUCKED (long story...we'll come back to this another time)... the pump itself is fantastic and so worth the money. Plus, the dorky bag is extremely handy! :) TIP: Make sure you get lots of extra pump parts... when you are spending most of your day breastfeeding or pumping, the last thing you want to do is rush to clean/sanitize those parts before the next feeding. I recommend 3-5 sets of every pump part.
Lansinoh Lanolin
- Your weapon against dry, cracked, painful nipples. One or two tubes was plenty for me, it is extremely thick. Also works well as chapstick!
- Your weapon against dry, cracked, painful nipples. One or two tubes was plenty for me, it is extremely thick. Also works well as chapstick!
Lansinoh Soothies Gel Pads
- These are absolute HEAVEN when you are breastfeeding. Like, orgasm worthy when you put them on your sore nips.
- These are absolute HEAVEN when you are breastfeeding. Like, orgasm worthy when you put them on your sore nips.
Lansinoh Nursing Pads
- So you don't stain/ruin all your sexy nursing bras OR leak through your heather grey shirts in line at baby Gap.
- So you don't stain/ruin all your sexy nursing bras OR leak through your heather grey shirts in line at baby Gap.
Tommee Tippee Milk Feeding Bibs
- There are a million kinds of bibs out there, but I like these the best, hands down. Keeps the milk out of your sweet baby's neck rolls but they are also super duper absorbent unlike some of the other bibs that seem to be made of waterproof material.
- There are a million kinds of bibs out there, but I like these the best, hands down. Keeps the milk out of your sweet baby's neck rolls but they are also super duper absorbent unlike some of the other bibs that seem to be made of waterproof material.
Avent Bottles - Everyone has their own preference, for us, these were the best. I felt like a lot of bottle nipples were too flimsy in her mouth (does that even make sense?) but these seemed to be just right. Advice, buy very few 4 oz. ones & instead get some bigger ones. Once you transition to the 6-8oz. mark, you'll be annoyed that you have to go buy a bunch of new bottles. Even though those little guys are pretty cute.
- Everyone has their own preference, for us, these were the best. I felt like a lot of bottle nipples were too flimsy in her mouth (does that even make sense?) but these seemed to be just right. Advice, buy very few 4 oz. ones & instead get some bigger ones. Once you transition to the 6-8oz. mark, you'll be annoyed that you have to go buy a bunch of new bottles. Even though those little guys are pretty cute.
Cloth Diapers/Burp Cloths
- Cloth diapers make the best burp cloths, without question. Brandon actually gets mad if I give him any other burp cloth other than these raggedy things.
- Cloth diapers make the best burp cloths, without question. Brandon actually gets mad if I give him any other burp cloth other than these raggedy things.
Boon Lawn Drying Rack - Definitely get the lawn, not the grass. You'll want this when you have six million pump parts, bottles, toys, and the rest of the things you are trying to hand wash. We actually have both, and the little tree/blooms to accessorize. Plus, tops the list as cutest baby item ever.
- Definitely get the lawn, not the grass. You'll want this when you have six million pump parts, bottles, toys, and the rest of the things you are trying to hand wash. We actually have both, and the little tree/blooms to accessorize. Plus, tops the list as cutest baby item ever.
Munchkin Bottle Brush
- Best one out there, in my opinion. Love the spongy at the top & the nipple brush that sticks in the bottom. I literally remember standing in the bottle brush aisle for 30+ minutes before Harper was born...and ended up leaving empty handed. Thank God, again, for our good friends (Paul & Jen!!) that gave us all of the best baby items so that we didn't have to make these "hard" decisions ourselves.
- Best one out there, in my opinion. Love the spongy at the top & the nipple brush that sticks in the bottom. I literally remember standing in the bottle brush aisle for 30+ minutes before Harper was born...and ended up leaving empty handed. Thank God, again, for our good friends (Paul & Jen!!) that gave us all of the best baby items so that we didn't have to make these "hard" decisions ourselves.
BabyGanics Bottle Soap
- I wasn't going to put any soap/lotion/etc. type items on here, BUT, you will be so thankful to have tons of this on hand. New moms, you'll freak out over germs and be hand washing everything in sight. This stuff is the bomb.com & you can truly never have enough. TIP: Before you bring your babe home from the hospital, have a designated "baby section" (maybe a cupboard and drawer) closest to the sink AND a big bowl/tub that you can use in one side of the sink (with your Boon drying rack next to it) for all of your hand washing, sanitizing & storage needs. So glad we did this, the thought of their bottles being washed same side of the sink as your forks & then stored on the counter next to the microwave will drive you insane.
- I wasn't going to put any soap/lotion/etc. type items on here, BUT, you will be so thankful to have tons of this on hand. New moms, you'll freak out over germs and be hand washing everything in sight. This stuff is the bomb.com & you can truly never have enough. TIP: Before you bring your babe home from the hospital, have a designated "baby section" (maybe a cupboard and drawer) closest to the sink AND a big bowl/tub that you can use in one side of the sink (with your Boon drying rack next to it) for all of your hand washing, sanitizing & storage needs. So glad we did this, the thought of their bottles being washed same side of the sink as your forks & then stored on the counter next to the microwave will drive you insane.
Boon High Chair
- Disclaimer: we do not actually have this high chair. I have read a million reviews on a million high chairs and have deemed this the best. We bought one from Ikea for $60 (which I'll admit, totally grew on me, and is really suitable for bigger babies, it is called the Blames, I think..) but I probably wouldn't recommend it. Looking to purchase this one for Harper soon, or at least for baby number two someday.
- Disclaimer: we do not actually have this high chair. I have read a million reviews on a million high chairs and have deemed this the best. We bought one from Ikea for $60 (which I'll admit, totally grew on me, and is really suitable for bigger babies, it is called the Blames, I think..) but I probably wouldn't recommend it. Looking to purchase this one for Harper soon, or at least for baby number two someday.
Aprica Playard
- Also on our list of favorite baby items EVER. We love this so much. It is so much sturdier & muchhhhh cuter than traditional pack n' plays.
- Also on our list of favorite baby items EVER. We love this so much. It is so much sturdier & muchhhhh cuter than traditional pack n' plays.
Peg Perego Primo Viaggio Car Seat
- I insisted in having an all black car seat (so this may seem totally unreasonable to you) but I wanted something very neutral (and I hate "tan") so this was almost an obvious choice for us. It has extremely high safety ratings & is SO easy to latch in and out of the base (and the straps are super easy too!). We were between this and one of the Britax infant seats, but this fit in the BabyTrend Snap n' Go stroller frame that we also got as a gift (which was also awesome, but not necessary if you have another stroller), but the Britax did not. Only complaint, it is a bit on the heavy side, but it didn't bother me too much. We have been really happy with it
- I insisted in having an all black car seat (so this may seem totally unreasonable to you) but I wanted something very neutral (and I hate "tan") so this was almost an obvious choice for us. It has extremely high safety ratings & is SO easy to latch in and out of the base (and the straps are super easy too!). We were between this and one of the Britax infant seats, but this fit in the BabyTrend Snap n' Go stroller frame that we also got as a gift (which was also awesome, but not necessary if you have another stroller), but the Britax did not. Only complaint, it is a bit on the heavy side, but it didn't bother me too much. We have been really happy with it
Baby Jogger City Mini - Love this stroller so so so much. It is so awesome to push, comfy for baby & probably one of the cutest strollers out there for the price. I have professed my love for this stroller enough on my blog, so I won't keep going on and on :)
- Love this stroller so so so much. It is so awesome to push, comfy for baby & probably one of the cutest strollers out there for the price. I have professed my love for this stroller enough on my blog, so I won't keep going on and on :)
Fisher Price Swing
- Everybody probably already knows how valuable a baby swing is... this is the one we got and totally loved it! Harper still naps in this on occasion... plus the neutral colors make it an obvious choice if you want to use it for a boy or girl & plan on it looking good with your home decor! :)
- Everybody probably already knows how valuable a baby swing is... this is the one we got and totally loved it! Harper still naps in this on occasion... plus the neutral colors make it an obvious choice if you want to use it for a boy or girl & plan on it looking good with your home decor! :)
Fisher Price Bouncer
- Same goes for the bouncer, these are amazing and I wish we could have one in every room of the house. Harper lived in these for the first 3-4 months of her life.
- Same goes for the bouncer, these are amazing and I wish we could have one in every room of the house. Harper lived in these for the first 3-4 months of her life.
I call these the "essentials" although some may totally disagree. (ok, maybe Sophie really isn't an essential.. and moms may even like it more than babies do... but the rest are definitely essentials in my book!).
Sophie The Giraffe Teether - Harper really loved this (as do most babies) so Sophie gets my vote. You can watch the HERE about why everyone loves Sophie so much! :)
- Harper really loved this (as do most babies) so Sophie gets my vote. You can watch the HERE about why everyone loves Sophie so much! :)
Aden+Anais Security Blankets - These are the most perfect sized, sweetest little blankets to give your little one at nap or bedtime. I wish we would have gotten these sooner. They are so great for soothing babies to sleep ...Harper loves to suck on the satin edging or put them over her face when she is tired. Plus, the lightweight muslin material makes for a perfect blanket that you can actually let them take to bed at night. Also... adorable!
- These are the most perfect sized, sweetest little blankets to give your little one at nap or bedtime. I wish we would have gotten these sooner. They are so great for soothing babies to sleep ...Harper loves to suck on the satin edging or put them over her face when she is tired. Plus, the lightweight muslin material makes for a perfect blanket that you can actually let them take to bed at night. Also... adorable!
Storksak Diaper Bag
- I love this diaper bag for a million reasons (other than the fact that is metallic grey... can that be my favorite color?) ...it has a ton of pouches & pockets for optimal organization PLUS stroller straps that will rock your world. You can read more about my diaper bag and it's contents HERE.
- I love this diaper bag for a million reasons (other than the fact that is metallic grey... can that be my favorite color?) ...it has a ton of pouches & pockets for optimal organization PLUS stroller straps that will rock your world. You can read more about my diaper bag and it's contents HERE.
Puj Tub
- Having a great folding tub that you can plop into the sink is pretty much the best thing ever when you have a newborn. This one rocks. Eventually you will need to upgrade to a different tub but what's most important on your registry is one that you can use right away, since bath time is a must when you are trying to establish your bedtime routine.
- Having a great folding tub that you can plop into the sink is pretty much the best thing ever when you have a newborn. This one rocks. Eventually you will need to upgrade to a different tub but what's most important on your registry is one that you can use right away, since bath time is a must when you are trying to establish your bedtime routine.
Diaper Genie
- I know a lot of people that hated theirs, but we honestly love the diaper genie! This can be substituted by a trash can in the garage where you can ditch poopy diapers, but if you are in a small space where it is important to mask the smell right away, this will totally do the trick! TIP: We only use this for poopy diapers... if it's just wet, it goes in the regular trash. Otherwise you will fly through the refills like no other.
- I know a lot of people that hated theirs, but we honestly love the diaper genie! This can be substituted by a trash can in the garage where you can ditch poopy diapers, but if you are in a small space where it is important to mask the smell right away, this will totally do the trick! TIP: We only use this for poopy diapers... if it's just wet, it goes in the regular trash. Otherwise you will fly through the refills like no other.
Pampers Sensitive Diapers - Needed to include diapers as part of the registry of course, but I know every mom has their own preference on brand (and disposable vs. cloth) but we used Pampers Sensitive & never had a single complaint.
- Needed to include diapers as part of the registry of course, but I know every mom has their own preference on brand (and disposable vs. cloth) but we used Pampers Sensitive & never had a single complaint.
Pampers Sensitive Wipes - Same goes for wipes, we have always used these & think they are the best. I actually did use a few other brands (from traveling or stuff we got at our shower) and never liked them as much. Feel free to register for one hundred thousand boxes because you can never have too many.
- Same goes for wipes, we have always used these & think they are the best. I actually did use a few other brands (from traveling or stuff we got at our shower) and never liked them as much. Feel free to register for one hundred
K'Tan Baby Carrier - I love this carrier so much! It is super easy to put on & I felt like Harper was always so comfortable & secure while I was wearing her. Plus, it comes in the size that YOU are instead of your baby, so you can comfortably wear your babe from newborn to toddler with just one wrap. Highly recommended!
- I love this carrier so much! It is super easy to put on & I felt like Harper was always so comfortable & secure while I was wearing her. Plus, it comes in the size that YOU are instead of your baby, so you can comfortably wear your babe from newborn to toddler with just one wrap. Highly recommended!
Exergen Temporal Thermometer
- I know the hospitals recommend that you use a rectal thermometer, so you definitely will need one of these as well.. but these are extra important. The first time your child gets a fever and they fall asleep... and you know they need to sleep but you are stressing about their temp... you will be so glad you have this. You can sneak in their room and take their temp in their sleep without even waking them!
- I know the hospitals recommend that you use a rectal thermometer, so you definitely will need one of these as well.. but these are extra important. The first time your child gets a fever and they fall asleep... and you know they need to sleep but you are stressing about their temp... you will be so glad you have this. You can sneak in their room and take their temp in their sleep without even waking them!
Nuk Pacifier - These are going to be different for every baby, but we tried TONS. I really wanted the gumdrop ones to work because they are cute and we got a bunch free from the hospital... but at the end of the day.. she liked these the best. And to be honest, most of the babies I see that are older (which means they have definitely picked a favorite paci) use Nuks. Also, can never have too many of these because they disappear like socks & ponytail holders.
- These are going to be different for every baby, but we tried TONS. I really wanted the gumdrop ones to work because they are cute and we got a bunch free from the hospital... but at the end of the day.. she liked these the best. And to be honest, most of the babies I see that are older (which means they have definitely picked a favorite paci) use Nuks. Also, can never have too many of these because they disappear like socks & ponytail holders.
Brica Baby Mirror
- Got this at my shower & so thankful for it. Allows for you to see your babe in their rear facing car seat.... so great for first time moms that are nervous about driving with your baby for the first time. Now that Harper is older, she loves it because she can see herself in it! :)
- Got this at my shower & so thankful for it. Allows for you to see your babe in their rear facing car seat.... so great for first time moms that are nervous about driving with your baby for the first time. Now that Harper is older, she loves it because she can see herself in it! :)
WHEW! Long winded to say the least. I know that I loved reading about baby registries when I was pregnant, so I hope you found this helpful! :) I am not an expert by any means, these are just items that we loved & that worked for us... most of them started out as recommendations from other moms too! Also, may not be necessary to include on your registry, but we have come across many of our new favorite baby items as Harper has grown! You can find them by month here:
As always, feel free to post your baby registry must haves in the comments! I love reading about what other moms find most important for a happy & healthy (and stylish!) baby! :)
67 Comments »
.JPG)
.JPG)
We also have so many of the things that are must for you! I totally understand about exclusively pumping is exhausting. My daughter was a preemie and has to have high calorie milk so I have only been allowed to pump and fortified. Is there a reason you had to exclusively pump or just a personal choice?
ReplyDeleteYou may have done a post on this previously, but not sure. What prenatal vitamin did you take if any? Looking into this now and really want a healthy option but not sure where to start!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for posting this! It's perfect timing (for me). I'm registering for our twins on Saturday at Buy Buy baby and Babies R US. We're having 3 showers though. Is there a third place you'd recommend in order to be able to register for as many of these items as possible?
ReplyDeleteI love your new look to the blog!! Beautiful job!
ReplyDeleteWe had our eye on an Ikea highchair, but ended up using a family members old one. & loved that boon one, had my eye on that for a while... It's just sooo pricey!
ReplyDeleteWe registered for a lot of similar items. I like neutral too.
And nap nanny is on my top 5 all time favorite baby items! I totally agree that it helps instill ideal sleeping habits, Beckett is a super star sleeper now :)
Always love seeing your favs!
@kelly. I highly recommend doing an amazon.com registry as well
ReplyDeleteGreat list. I love the citi mini jogger although I ended up with a quinny buzz...which is nice but too big for apartment living in China. I may make the switch (:
ReplyDeleteI just posted a list of must haves for traveling with babies on my blog. Check it out
http://brieandnickzentil.blogspot.com/2012/10/on-go-baby-travel-simplified.html
Love love love your blog
We had a lot of the same things! Peg Perego def the way to go for carseats Now that Elle is out of her Peg we have a Maxi Cosi and I also have been very pleased with it. Love the A&A blankets. Those are the only blankets we used to swaddle Elle and she still uses them to snuggle up with at night (going on 2 years!) and yes,Sophie, of course:)
ReplyDeleteI have to totally second the thermometer. Rectal is best when they are infants but we had this one too. My daughter is the WORST napper so when she is napping I absolutely hate to disturb her for anything less than a hurricane (and even then, that sucker better be at least a category 3). We have this thermometer and I was able to sneak into her room and take her temp while she was napping one time when she was sick. She totally didn't even flinch. Worth every penny.
ReplyDeleteMy husband and I totally went into the living room and were jumping up and down giving each other silent high fives like we mental.
I'm about 14 weeks and loving your blog and especially this post! I feel like I'm learning so much from your site! Thanks and keep them coming =)
ReplyDeleteI'm curious about your feeding situation. Are you still breastfeeding (pumping), or is Harper on formula? Do you have any advice when it comes to pumping?
ReplyDeleteLove allll of your picks! We also have soo many of these! I would love to join you in a pump burning party!! I had to exclusively pump and was a SLAVE to my pump! As I walked like a zombie to my pump at 3 am .... I sang Britney Spears' " I'm a slave." then continued as I washed pump parts till my hands were raw!
ReplyDeleteSophie is also a huge hit with soooo many babies. My husband jokes that we need to come up with the next big hit at $25 a pop!!! Expensive rubber toy... But my daughter loves it!!!
Love allll of your picks! We also have soo many of these! I would love to join you in a pump burning party!! I had to exclusively pump and was a SLAVE to my pump! As I walked like a zombie to my pump at 3 am .... I sang Britney Spears' " I'm a slave." then continued as I washed pump parts till my hands were raw!
ReplyDeleteSophie is also a huge hit with soooo many babies. My husband jokes that we need to come up with the next big hit at $25 a pop!!! Expensive rubber toy... But my daughter loves it!!!
Great list. I have a 2 week old so this is great to read. I'm glad to hear you like the k'tan we are gettin one this weekend!
ReplyDeleteCould you do a blog post on how you established a bedtime routine
ReplyDeleteCould you do a blog post on how you established a bedtime routine? We are having the hardest time!
ReplyDeleteThe My Brest Friend nursing pillow is AMAZING. Hands down, the best $45 I spent on a baby item. The name is totally dumb, but it's so worth it. It keeps the baby in the perfect position for nursing & gives you some back support to boot.. Now that she's a bit older (4 months) we use nothing but the boppy, but I couldn't have lived without my "Brest Friend" in the beginning!
ReplyDeletewww.Jasonmeandbabyt.blogspot.com
I'm super glad that you posted this! I was just going to email you yesterday and ask your advice on non-babyish baby gear. I'm trying to avoid the rainbow plasticness that usually comes with a baby! Great post! :)
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for breaking everything down! I have been "favoriting" each post to look back on when it comes time for us to register (hopefully in just a few weeks :D!). Honestly I want to start doing it now only for the stuff I know we need that's not so gender specific. But thanks to you, I feel so much more prepared to tackle the bottle brush aisle now :)
ReplyDeleteWhat pattern of the Aden & Anais blankets did you use?! I adore them! I have some girly ones on the registry but would love to throw these on there too. I think you pretty much covered everything.
ReplyDeleteI love this activity mat:
http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3594395
I like the fact it isn't too girly and has a lot of contrasting colors and patterns for little eyes to take in!
Except for a couple of things, I think I have all the products on your must have lists, and I agree they are the best! I always love reading your blog because I feel like our babies are very similar in some aspects and reading your blog helps me prepare for the months ahead, so thanks for blogging!
ReplyDeleteLove this list! We're OBSESSED with the nap nanny--our two month old has been sleeping through the night for a few weeks now, and before that I had to wake her up for a nighttime feeding! Question: did you do anything special to transition Harper from the NN to being flat in the crib?
ReplyDeleteLove the new bloc design (but I loved the old banner too) you are so cute! Thanks for all the inside tips and adorable outfits and great ideas! Very real and relatable. Thanks for that too!
ReplyDeleteI'm so happy to read this now that I have a baby on the way! I'm going to have to look for each and every item when we register! haha
ReplyDeleteThank you for posting this!! My first baby is due in early May and this helps me out so much with what we will need! Question: my husband and I don’t want a travel system - does that stroller have enough support for a new born? I put it on my registry right away after you talked about it, but I wasn't sure if you could put a new born in it right away?
ReplyDeleteHoly moly this is the most amazing list EVER, thank you a million times over! Seriously, at 15 weeks pregnant, I'm a little scared of registering because I must research every little thing we invest our time and money (and our family/friends money!) to ensure we get the best. Thank you for compiling this! I would be very interested in your opinion type of cribs/gliders, etc... :) Thanks again!
ReplyDeleteThis post couldn't have come at a better time! I've been really stressing about registering...I just added about 90% of those things to our Amazon registry!
ReplyDeleteWhat an amazing and helpful list! I already have a couple of the things you listed but this is so great as I am in the process of registering right now. :) Thanks!!
ReplyDeleteWhat an amazing and helpful list! I already have a couple of the things you listed but this is so great as I am in the process of registering right now. :) Thanks!!
ReplyDeletei cant believe how many things you have that I have too! great compiled list! moms-to-be should def check it out!
ReplyDeletethe sweet life of a southern wife
Agree with so many of your items! My all-time fave is the Boon's Lawn drying rack! Some other favorites: Halo SleepSack Swaddler, Munchkin Time Saver Bottle Warmer, Dr. Brown's Microwave Bottle Sterilizer, JJ Cole Diaper Caddy, and Shout Color Catchers. And the Baby Connect iPhone app!
ReplyDeleteSee my similar post here: http://craigandsarahsidesfamily.blogspot.com/2012/08/my-favorite-things-baby-edition_7.html.
Agree with so many of your items! My all-time fave is the Boon's Lawn drying rack! Some other favorites: Halo SleepSack Swaddler, Munchkin Time Saver Bottle Warmer, Dr. Brown's Microwave Bottle Sterilizer, JJ Cole Diaper Caddy, and Shout Color Catchers. And the Baby Connect iPhone app!
ReplyDeleteSee my similar post here: http://craigandsarahsidesfamily.blogspot.com/2012/08/my-favorite-things-baby-edition_7.html.
I love when you do these posts. My shower is next weekend, and it's good to see I'm kinda on track with what I have! It also helps to know what to pic up on our own after! You are a thorough little list maker!! Thanks!
ReplyDeleteExclusively pumping is THE WORST. You feel like you are a slave to the pump, and the sink, and all those one million bottles and nipples and membranes and teeny things, not to mention coming to terms (for me, at least) with not being able to nurse your baby which makes you feel like a failure on top of the incredible time commitment - pumping, storing, cleaning, and then feeding baby on top of it. BUT - the Medela pump is without question the best, I can't imagine spending more than 10 minutes at time at the pump while your six week old is screaming because she can't handle not being held and Daddy is at work and you can't even eat lunch because she is so damn needy, because she's only six weeks old. Also I've recently gone back to work and the Medela pump is so quick I can pump during my half hour lunch break and still eat some lunch, plus I don't have to worry about keeping my milk in the company fridge where some pig will inevitably put it in their coffee because the pump has a cooler that fits in the bag! Cannot say enough good things about it, as well!
ReplyDeleteAlso, our daughter has like 85% of the same things, all of which I also love. The only thing I'll say is that my girl has never stayed in the Nap Nanny for more than 3 minutes because she hates it with a sincere passion. She hates being strapped in and she always slumps over to the side (she's three months and still doesn't have great head control) and can't right herself because of the angle. So, I would recommend that people test one out first if they can to see if their kiddo likes it before investing, since it's quite pricey. For us it was a waste, but again that is just our babe.
Awesome, awesome list.
My must-haves are almost identical to yours :) I love it! We have the Boon highchair and love it, and I agree about the Boon lawn. I have the grass, and bought 2 because 1 just wasn't enough (it was right before I knew the lawn existed, so I decided to make the grass work). The only other things I'd add that were ESSENTIAL for us were baby mittens (for the tiny pj's/outfits that don't have the mitten cuffs -- why they don't, I just don't know) and pacifier clips (my sister makes them on etsy, but any would do). :) I love your style!! Great post!
ReplyDeleteI see that the items are linked to amazon; did you only register there or did you register at a store too? I'm not sure if the "older" family members would be able how to figure out an online only registry lol
ReplyDeleteI am exclusively pumping for my 4 1/2 month old twins. I am renting a Medela hospital grade pump and want to throw it out of a moving car....but then I remember we're paying the hospital $55/month to use it. So I won't. BUT, I would love to read a post/your experience with exclusive pumping...how long you did it...how you weaned, etc. I'm getting the itch to be done and would love any insight!! Thanks for all these great baby recommendations!
ReplyDeleteQuestion about the fan... do you point it AT the baby? Or will it help to just circulate the air? First time mom, due in March. This list is awesome!
ReplyDeleteThat Dupree girl updated her blog layout and it's looking freakishly like yours. Ironically changed right after yours did too...
ReplyDeleteI exclusively pumped both my kids and its a PITA, but Medela is the way to go.
ReplyDeleteI just have to ditto the advent bottles, boppy & A&A swaddle blankets. Seriously I will never ever buy those tiny stupid cotton receiving blankets ever again.. Aden & Anais is the way to go!
Instead of the Nap Nanny we got the Rock & Play sleeper and we love it!! Our child has slept 10+hrs at night in it, though I've heard nothing but amazeballs reviews about the Nap Nanny (except its a little pricey)
This is probably just as "essential" as sophie, but the Lamaze infant toys (we have Jaques the Peacock & Captain Calamari) are a MUST. My 6 month old is obsessed and has been for the past 3 months.
Okay wow, sorry this is so long :/
We love the Boppy Circus play gym and the Lamaze toys...Mortimer the Moose and Jacques the Peacock! I have an 8 week old and totally agree with tons of the stuff you mentioned. Love the post!
ReplyDeleteI love your blog!! This is such a good post so informative I love your taste also!! Thanks for great infi
ReplyDeleteI just want you to know that I absolutely love your blog!!! I'm a newlywed (going on 3 months now!!), and we plan on waiting a couple years before having a baby, but I'm glad I have this blog to turn to just in case. ;) You're amazing! :)
ReplyDeleteLOVE your new design! You have such good taste. I absolutely love your style and cannot wait for your house tour! I also like when you post about your favorite things such as where you buy your clothes, shoes, etc
ReplyDeleteLOL well since I practically buy everything that you post for monthly essentials. I have everything you have just different colors & maybe brands...except the play yard!! I love the mini jogger....did you know on the instructions it says not to jog with it, but in the title it clearly is called city mini jogging stoller? haha my boyfriend was like um, babe you can't jog with this!!
ReplyDeleteI have been reading your blog since I found out I was pregnant! I am 15 weeks now and is it creepy I love to read about a total stranger's life?! Thank you for your posts, this baby stuff one has been especially helpful since I'm trying to make a list for the registry!
ReplyDeleteJust wondering if you had any ideas of what you're planning on getting Miss Harper for Christmas or what is on her list for Santa??
ReplyDeleteAlso have you heard of "The Elf on the Shelf"
http://www.target.com/c/elf-on-the-shelf-brand-shop/-/N-56533?intc=null_dvmy12c0026v000124i002314_null&ref=tgt_adv_XSHA4908&afid=googlestr&cpng=2012elfontheshelf&DFA=56&LMP=the%20elf%20on%20the%20shelf
Such a GREAT tradition to start, although Harper may be little... just keep it in mind... Emmalina LOVES this soo much, there is evena cute movie!!!
Have you ever seen the Aden & Anais burp rag/bibs? Its a burp cloth that has a bowed shape so it fits on the shoulder amazingly and has snaps on the ends so you can also use it as a bib. I got it for my sister with her newest and I love using them.
ReplyDeleteWhen you make the Chocolate Pumpkin Muffins - do you put the oil and egg in along with the mix too? Or just the pumpkin & dry mix?
ReplyDeleteTHANK YOU! I love the feed back! I will have to book mark this page for future reference!
ReplyDeleteFirst, LOVE the new blog design! I've been following for a while but hadn't commented until I got my own blog set up. This list is PERFECT. I'm due in April and have been in crazy research mode. We bought the Baby Jogger City Mini GT, really excited about it! Now very seriously considering the Aprica for a play yard. Thanks for this, it's great to have personal recommendations.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for posting this! My husband and I are so overwhelmed by the amount of stuff that the little one needs...we've been putting off the whole registry thing because of it. This has been so helpful!
ReplyDeletehttp://growingbytwotinyfeet.blogspot.com
Great list! Do you think you can do a post about exclusive pumping sometime? I'd be really interested in your experience. How long did you do it for, how often, etc. thanks!
ReplyDeleteI am also interested in your exclusively pumping story. I have a four week old that I am having to pump for. Any advice you have would be greatly appreciated!!
ReplyDeleteThis is so helpful while registering!!!! Thank you!!
ReplyDeletehttp://hestolemyheartsoistolehislastname.blogspot.com/
Thank you for sharing. I am working on my registry and needed some good tips!
ReplyDeleteI will echo other commenters and say that I would love to hear your exclusive pumping story. Maybe you could make a "Favorites" post dedicated just to pumping-related items (hands-free bra, freezer bags, etc) along with any tips that you felt worked for you. Your blog is wonderful - so warm and real. It's a great source of encouragement for other moms out there.
ReplyDeleteChiming in to say that I'd also love to hear more about your experience with exclusively pumping. It seems to be an overlooked method of feeding the baby...it gets lost between exclusive breastfeeding and bottle/formula feeding. I'm exclusively pumping for my 4 month old daughter and it's so much work (totally worth it, but a little stressful and kind of isolating!). I'm curious how long you did it and how you weaned. So glad I found your blog through pinterest...Harper is such a cutie and your love for her really shines in your writing and photos:)
ReplyDelete@jlgarvin -- How do you feel about the recall of the nap nanny? I went to buy today and saw the recall articles!
ReplyDelete@jlgarvin How do you feel about the nap nanny being recalled? Went to buy and saw all the recall articles today! :o
ReplyDeleteBummer that the Nap Nanny got recalled!! Love the Registry essentials, it's so helpful while registering!!
ReplyDeletehttp://hestolemyheartsoistolehislastname.blogspot.com/2013/01/24-weeks-cantaloupe.html
I have no idea if you are still checking this, but can you use the city jogger mini when your baby is a newborn? Or do you have to get an attachment/different stroller?
ReplyDeleteWill this still work for this registry even if I live in Calgary?
ReplyDeleteHey Jessica-- I remembered that you recommended the Nap Nanny and was going to get one for my best friend who is due soon. Unfortunately they have stopped selling them! I guess after the first recall the CPSC filed another complaint and now they're out of business. What a bummer!!! Don't get rid of yours in between kiddos!
ReplyDeleteAwesome list. First time dad here, any advice on the best place for registry in Calgary? Thanks for all the info!
ReplyDeleteWas your diaper bag the storksak tania or storksak tania bee?
ReplyDeleteFor all the pumping moms out there: no need to buy multiple pump parts. As long as you store your fixtures in the fridge between pumping sessions, you can keep using them!!!
ReplyDelete