Why Yes I DO Have Thoughts on This!
My friend Shannon is expecting her first baby on my son’s birthday! She recently emailed me and asked my opinion of some baby gear. I got so excited to be asked for my opinion that I nearly wet myself from the excitement.
Here’s what I told her about my opinion of travel systems…
“As far as the stroller system, here’s what I recommend…(feel free to do with this info whatever you please!) Graco MetroLite stroller!!!!! Only 17 lbs! It’s a travel system, which I DO think is good. Why, you ask? Well lemme tell ya…if you plan to ever go anywhere then you’ll want a really good stroller. Unless you get a really expensive umbrella stroller, then it’s a pain in the arse to push around. Once Baby is strong enough to hold up her head, then you won’t necessarily need to use the carseat in the stroller. However when Baby gets tired, he might want to be reclined in the stroller for a nap. Umbrella strollers don’t have that feature. Also if you go shopping at the mall, the MetroLite has a basket on the bottom to stow away purchases and purses and whatever else you’re carting along. The umbrella stroller doesn’t. When Baby gets hungry while you’re out and about, you’ll want a tray on the stroller for the cheerios and sweet potato puffs. The umbrella stroller doesn’t have a tray. If it’s bright and sunny out and you want a cover over Baby’s little head, you won’t have one large enough on an umbrella stroller.
Some people really like umbrella strollers. I think they are very useful if you plan on traveling long distances or by plane a lot, as they take up less space. That doesn’t mean you won’t need a better stroller for everyday use, though.”
Whew!
I feel really strongly in favor of the Graco MetroLite! GO Graaaaaaaaacccccccccoooooooooooo! Go!
I feel equally as strong about my disdain for the Diaper Genie. BOOO! Two thumbs down! If I had more thumbs, I’d put them down, too. The insert refills are expensive and once Baby makes stinky poops, I don’t think it actually masks any odors.
BOOOOO!
Now, I have plenty more opinions, but this post doesn’t need to be 40,000 words. I’d like to know some of your opinions about your favorite and detested baby gear.
Here’s what you do…Tell Shannon about one MUST HAVE baby gear item and WHY! The WHY is most important. Then tell Shannon one eye-roll worthy baby product and WHY! Again, the WHY is very important.
I’m certain Shannon appreciates all of our assvice, er, I mean ADvice.
I completely agree with you about Travel systems and the Diaper Genie. I’ll go out on a limb here-and I have not read other comments, so I wouldn’t be swayed. I thought the Boppie was next to worthless. I am short, and it just never was comfortable for me to use it to lay the baby on to nurse. We never really used ours. One thing that I thought was awesome was the exersaucer. My kids loved theirs. You can’t stick them in it all day, but it was good for 20 minutes–i.e. a shower–priceless!
Mom24’s last blog post..Roadmap to Holland
Actually MANY things are fine to buy used, in my opinion. I wouldn’t buy a crib or a carseat used.
I used our Baby Bjorn a lot. Get one of the new ones with the back support. I used a sling as well (pain in the arse to get on and I was always hot wearing it) but really loved the ease of the Bjorn, and the cost seems outlandish but totally. worth. it.
Mama DB’s last blog post..This is what having a homeopathic pediatrician looks like.
I am going to throw a little controversy into the mix. I would get the really expensive umbrella stroller. I bought a maclaren 5 years ago and it is the only thing I used (except for a sit and stroller that could accomodate all three of my boys when the youngest couldn’t raise his head). I love it! I love that it has the basket underneath for purses and purchases. It folds up to nothing and can be slung over the shoulder if you get on a bus or subway. It is tall enough to comfortably push (which MANY umbrella strollers are made for shorter moms). It is small enough to always be in the trunk. I rarely used the travel systems when the boys were babies because if I was going to need something to hook the car seat into it was usually at the grocery store, target, babies r us…they all had shopping carts that I could use. If I was going into the mall it was easier to just use the Bjorn carrier if the baby was tired and wanted to sleep he could sleep in that. I often would stick the carrier into the basket of the umbrella stroller. I just like to pack light. I didn’t even carry a purse prior to kids so that might have something to do with my umbrella stroller passion. Oh, and one of the major advantages of the expensive umbrella stroller is that it is strong enough for an older child to stand on the bracing for the basket in the back. So I can easily transport two kids that don’t want to walk…
HRH’s last blog post..Monster toddler…
The single best thing I bought for the kiddo? Hands down The Baby Whisperer by Tracey Hogg. I got three extra hours of sleep the first day I put it into effect…and that was heaven. It also helped me “learn” my child. I give it to every new mom I know. Also, Gripe Water. My kiddo was lactose intolerant and had terrible gas. Gripe Water is not cheap, but it’s worth it’s weight in gold compared to the other versions of tummy relief. We still use it (he’s 3) when his tummy is upset & he loves it.
Okay Bad? I would say the Baby Bjorn. I never felt like it fit right. It was hot. It was heavy. I ended up returning it.
Anglophile Football Fanatic’s last blog post..Oh, Twit!
Loved:
Boppy
(Great for nursing)
Sling
(look! No hands!)
Swing
Bouncy Seat
Jumperoo
(all great for putting baby down for a few minutes!! WOO!)
Hated:
Diaper Genie
($$ and stinky!)
various floor mat toy type things
(my kids never used these…)
Devan’s last blog post..Last one, I hope.
I loved my Baby Bjorn sling. When mine were newborn it was the only way I got any laundry or dishes done.
And a bouncy seat is VERY crucial.
You must have a pack n play. Ours has traveled all over the country now with two kids and hosted nephews napping at our house. It’s 6 years old and looks great.
amy’s last blog post..Can Mommy and Daddy Rest Now?
Hands down best item is a tie between a Boppy and a Moby Wrap. I couldn’t nurse without my boppy unless I was laying down in the bed. It was a total lifesaver for both of my kiddos. I only had the Moby for my second, but it’s the most versatile wrap I’ve ever seen and can be worn many ways. It’s definitely got a learning curve, but once I figured it out I was able to put the little one in it and do dishes, laundry, and clean all while she slept soundly away. I couldn’t grocery shop with both kids without it, and best of all, weird people are much less likely to try to touch your baby if s/he is strapped to your chest!
The worst item was one of those new style baby tubs with the built in shower. It tore up almost immediately, and I found it was much easier to bathe her in a plain baby tub til she could sit up and then put her in the regular bathtub. I’ll second the uselessness of the diaper genie. That’s a thing I learned with my first.
If someone is insisting that they need a place to put the poop, I say the Diaper Champ isn’t all bad. It uses regular trash bags and is basically a glorified trash can. It sort of locks the odor in. I say “sort of” because there is nothing on Earth that can contain some of the things that come out of those small creatures. You still have to empty it at least twice per week.
Also , a Jumperoo was my personal hero for about three months. LOVED IT.
Burgh Baby’s last blog post..As Lucky as You Can Get
Very expensive, though. Still kicking myself for not getting one and still curse the Baby Bjorn every time I use it.
Here’s the link for the Beco…
http://www.becobabycarrier.com/
I have to say I had a “Cadillac” stroller that I hardly ever used once I got my maclaren stroller. To each their own, really! Actually I’ve found there is no ONE stroller. You need a big plush ride for outside/all day type trips and you need a little one to keep in the car for errands and such.
The mac is light and folds small (doesn’t take up the whole trunk, has a shoulder strap) I never let them eat off the stroller tray anyway so I didn’t miss that, at least my Volo has a decent sunshade. And I’m not one to carry much - my diaper bag is not very full (most of the “you might need it” stuff is in the car) so it was perfect. The small wheels made for great maneuverability and turns on a dime. And my kids fell asleep just fine sitting up and would wake up indignant if I ever reclined them anyway. I do have a 3 wheeled outdoor stroller, with a swivel wheel and 2nd seat (phil and ted) that is awesome, and I’ve taken it to the mall too, it’s not really bigger than the huge gracos I see. Only I can maneuver better *evil cackle*)
I don’t do diaper genies. We use cloth, but even before that, we just put the diapers in the trash and the stinky ones right out in the garage.
If I could do it again I’d buy one of the expensive LIGHTWEIGHT pack and plays, and the FOLDABLE bouncy chairs. Worth it the few times you need those things to be small and portable. I will never forget a trip to the beach made annoying by the fact a bouncy chair just wouldn’t fit in the car with all our luggage, baby gear and husband’s music gear. (I ended up having to take the cover off and stack stuff “inside” it)
I also feel strongly that despite the bjorn is a great way for “mainstream” people to get into baby wearing - buy a “real” sling. Hell, buy an Ergo. They aren’t that much more expensive than the expensive Bjorns, but they are a lot more comfy. The baby is not going to lose IQ points facing you. And the Ergo doesn’t feel as heavy on you, and better for the baby’s hips. Also recommended: a pouch sling for the newborn stage, and a babyhawk (or any other mei tai type carrier.) I wish I knew about these things with my first child. All I had was the bjorn and I hated it once she was like, 10 lbs.
jen’s last blog post..ding dong
Grrr I HATE Diaper Genie too! I specifically said I did NOT want one (we lived in a tiny tiny apartment at the time and didn’t really have room for something like that) and the ILs got us one ANYWAY, then got offended when I wanted to take it back (along with some other items) to get an INFANT CAR SEAT that we still did not have. And you are right…the inserts are expensive and they don’t work well…
Anyway,
I didn’t read all the replies (too early for me) but my favorite piece of gear was my Snugli. It doesn’t have to be a Snugli per se, but some other baby wearing contraption. I could clean house, even PEE with it on and he would blissfully snooze or just be content being next to me…it is a must have for those early newborn days when they tend to cry…a lot.
So..there it is. A Snugli.
Sandy’s last blog post..*whew* Glad that is over…
these might help her:
most necessary baby products: http://www.alimartell.com/index.php/2006/09/21/13-of-the-most-necessary-baby-products/
most unnecessary baby products: http://www.alimartell.com/index.php/2006/09/14/13-of-the-most-unnecessary-baby-products/
Suggested:
Diaper Champ - can use any bags, works well for about 9 months and then the odor started to leak no matter how clean it was — I put it right outside the backdoor for poopy diapers.
Boppy - I wish I would have brought mine to the hospital with me.
Swing - my son slept in it for the firs three months. He had reflux and wouldn’t sleep on his back.
Jumperoo/exersaucer - I agree with you - hit the yard sales and consignment shops.
Travel system - we got an Evenflo system and use the stroller all the time. The infant seat also fit well in both our cars.
Book: The Happiest Baby on the Block - if it wasn’t for white noise my son would not have ever slept or stopped crying.
Small diaper bag - I got a $5 purse-sized bag at Baby Depot. It is nice looking, holds 3-5 diapers, travel wipes, a bottle (or now baby food jars with snacks and sippy), one or two baby toys, my wallet and phone, and a few odds and ends. You don’t need an overnight bag like thing to go out for 5 hours. Plus, I found that the large diaper bag I did get is so compartmentalized that it doesn’t fit much in it. When I travel I use a large canvas tote - it fits more.
5 packs of gerber or carter long-sleeve onsies with the the sleeves that fold over the hands. This is great for the first few months when they scratch their faces in their sleep. When they are awake, just fold them back.
Clothes with zippers - They zip-front pjs were so much easier to use then the snap front. Especially in the middle of the night.
Didn’t use:
Bottle warmer - I nursed, but I did use formula a lot to supplement and just used warm tap water.
Play mats
Sling - He would just cry, but I’d like to note that he was very tempermental.
anne’s last blog post..Birthday twins
Must haves: I agree with the Pack n Play and something to wear the baby. Didn’t have a sling with #1, got it with #2, and kicked myself for not having it the first time. My first was a 20lb 4 month old. A little support would have been nice. This is less a purchase issue, but set up small diaper changing baskets or drawers throughout the rooms in your house you use the most. This SAVED me in the early blow-out days. I do love my Metrolite, but it was the Metro-heavy back when I got it– today’s versions are much lighter and easier to use. Buy this gender neutral– it’s a tank and it will last FOREVER.
Waste of My Money: Changing table (use the floor or a bed, just keep changing pads stashed around,) baby swing (I know some people swear by them, but I used mine maybe four times with both kids COMBINED,) and a baby tub. Just bathe the baby in the kitchen sink. It saves your back and baby is at eye level in a basin that’s about the right size. Throw a bath towel in the bottom if it really bothers you that she’s in the sink.
The Other Dawn’s last blog post..Pay It Forward
My can’t live without? Exersaucer and bouncer. They were lifesavers, baby feeders, baby sitters, baby calmers, cribs, bassinettes and just in general give mom a break items! I LOVED them! We had two exersaucers…one upstairs and one down so that our son could entertain himself wherever we were. My daughter was not as in love with it but she lived in her soothing motions glider for a good portion of her early months because she was a sleeper. Loved to sleep and wasn’t always keen on being held while sleeping!
I never went the route of diaper disposals. We take our garbage out at least once a day to a dumpster so I saw no reason why I couldn’t just throw my diapers in that garbage and remove them from my house.
I had a very hard time steering my travel system with one hand, which was often necessary for me…not sure why. We ended up buying a Peg Pliko 3 that mimics an umbrella stroller but can accommodate a car seat and has two separate handles and a tray in the front. The only thing I HATE about it is that the basket is difficult to use.
I really never used my bumbo all that often. My daughter did not like it and she very quickly learned how to propel herself out of it.
My boppy has only come into use recently because my daughter likes to use it as if it were a hemorrhoid pillow and sit right in the middle and play.
I used my Bjorn when my daughter was born because wielding the double stroller was difficult so using the peg for my son and Bjorn for my daughter was great.
Finally, I am anti wipes warmers. I think they allow bacteria to grow and are somewhat pointless. That’s just my opinion, I know a lot of people who swear by them!
Good luck!!
Alison’s last blog post..Guesting
Thing I couldn’t live without - Boppy! I loved mine, I used it for nursing for a long time, but also H took naps on it. I put a blanket on the floor put the boppy on top and that’s where he napped.
Useless piece of junk - Bouncy seat. H didn’t like being in it. He prefered being in arms or on the floor until he got big enough to hold his head up on his own.
I never used my stroller. Well okay, I used it about 10 times in 3 years. I prefered my sling and my mei tai carrier. The best advice I have about baby carriers is to try a whole lot of different types out with your baby. Each person is different in terms of what is comfortable for them. Actually this is true with a lot of baby equipment, if you can borrow some from other people to try it out because what is nirvana for one is a big cluttery dust trap for another.
K’s last blog post..Spray Art @ the park
i have to re-iterate the sling idea. LOVE MY SLING. especially with second baby / toddler. so easy to throw on in a store - then older child can be cart-ed (verb?). but i also really liked it when my oldest was bigger and i had to truck her around on my hip. (i have a maya wrap). it came with a video - scared me initially watching the woman slide a (3-4??) year old up and into the sling and start nursing…but whatever…
i must say i love it…very easy to use once you get used to it.
i am also the queen of strollers - i carry 3, yes 3, in the back of my van at all times. i use them all…for different reasons…but i use them all. yes, my husband thinks i’m crazy too. i have a sit n-stand for both kids, a cheap umbrella for quick runs (i could care less if it gets ruined on a plane or at the park), and my favorite - the ingelsina zippy. LOVE THAT STROLLER.
totally unnecessary baby items: i really never used my boppy pillow - it just didn’t fit me right and i think i used it a total of 3 times for nursing (and i nursed my first for 2 years and my second for one year thus far)…but i did use it more often to prop up baby (s).
it’s so hard to be opinionated on this one…it’s different for every mommy and every baby! there were things i like for one but not the other…
i agree with buying second hand! there are so many hardly used items out there…easy to clean up if you are worried! and it gives you a chance to trial it or buy extras for grandparents!
jen’s last blog post..mommy (s).
LOVED:
-Noah’s Arc (or similar type) mat for floor: (my kids loved this and I could easily pick it up and carry it all over the house so I could be next to them. Also, my oldest rolled over at 12 days old since he wasn’t really confined in some sort of contraption. Good or bad, depending on how you look at it.)
-Baby Whisperer book
-Phil & Ted’s Stroller (for two kids)
-Video Monitor
JUST OKAY:
-Diaper Champ (okay for newborns- but worthless on smell once solid foods make poop more grotesque)
-Boppy (but at least get a soft, comfy cover if you get this, like PBK’s)
-Swings
HATED:
-Bouncy seats
-Pack n Plays
Oh! All the assvice! Inevitably, you’ll get stuff that you are psyched about that just will not work for you. Once you figure out what your routine is like and what your baby is like, it will come together…. everyone is so different!
Have fun!!!!
Danielle’s last blog post..Grant’s Art Debut
Oh! Oh! I know! I know!
Must have: Boppy Newborn Lounger…it’s the perfect size to nest a little newborn in, it’s soft, it keeps their tiny little heads elevated. Zach slept in it for the first 3 months of his life. I buy it for EVERYONE I know who is having a baby. Even my step-sister who had triplets. She loved it too.
Eye-roller item: Those little mitten-y thingies. Just cut their damn finger nails and they’ll be fine. Sheesh.
AMomTwoBoys’s last blog post..Gah! A BABY!
Loved my own boobs! (OK, ya, I’m a nursing activist, sorry, but I had to say it once, I’ll be shutting up now) and loved my sling.
Agree on your disdain for Diaper Champs and all other things of that ilk. I also never understood wipe warmers. Strangely enough, I’m also probably the only mom in the world that had little use for my baby monitor. (recommendation? A portable bassinet for naps right there in the living room in front of the TV and plenty of noise for naps. Bedtime can be quiet in his own crib, but get those naps plenty noisy, he’ll then sleep through ANYTHING.)
There, solicited assvice has been disseminated.
Brianne’s last blog post..Cavity cry
I used my stroller (the plush reclining one
) for naps when they were tiny.. I could wheel it around wherever I was. But these things get harder with #3… siblings giving wild rides and all that.
jen’s last blog post..ding dong
Stock up on Tylenol… Trust me.
If she is going to breastfeed, put down the boppy which is OK and get a my brest friend pillow. AMAZING for breastfeeding!
Check out this web site too for great finds:
http://www.reviewingbabygear.com
Tuesday’s last blog post..Moms
Must have! A routine, a baby sling and a nightly glass of wine. My kids both also loved the exersaucer that has a seat that walks around a table. Oh and if you are going to breastfeed…those gel pads for your nipples!
Things you don’t need: Boppy, know it all MIL, wiper warmer.
Trust your instincts!
Connie’s last blog post..Ka Ching!
What we couldn’t live without with both kids….the swing….and not just any swing…the one that swings side to side or back and forth. My kids napped in it, played in it, and basically gave me time to shower while in it. HAVE to have.
What I could live without….the stupid bouncy seat! Unless they make one that bounces by itself, because other than that, it’s useless. I want something that I don’t need to sit there and bounce up and down or I would just do it my damn self.
Huh…now I got that out…..good luck Shannon…and believe me…the assvice won’t stop when they are born….someone always has an opinion when it comes to kids!
Val’s last blog post..“What do you want for your Birthday?”
I have to say first that all babies are different and may not take to the products you think you will use. We loved the bouncer. Wouldn’t know what to do without it. Helped me take my first post baby shower and I put my son in it when I needed to cook or use the bathroom. I also loved my Snugli baby carrier. It’s less than $30 but works as well as the Bjorn. I also have a Graco Travel System that I used mostly for long outings like trips to the mall. Now I use the umbrella stroller when he needs to be restrained and not running around stores like the comic book store. Oh yeah, and I had a boppy for home and one for travel
The diaper Genie could be a great idea if it actually worked. Mine didn’t. I also wasted money on the bottle warmer. He only used the play yard/bassinette combo for 4 months, then he wouldn’t use it.
Good luck!
Best:
Bouncy seats, Exersaucer, portable stroller, Swing for infants, Boppy, a good comfortable high chair with a crotch bar. I would not have survived without my glider to rock her. I love my Kelty backpack…she LOVES to ride around in it and will stay in there all day long. Burp cloths and A LOT of them. A BundleMe for both the infant carseat and now for the stroller. Comfie and warm (we live in MN) and she sleeps a lot better in both with them.
Worst: Baby Bjorn, Jumperoo (she never liked it), Sling (I never had the patience to figure out how to use it), Diaper Genie. Portable swing (not comfortable for little babies and not great for older kids either).
The swing that goes from side to side as well as front and back. Some babies have digestive problems and the side to side helps them NOT CRY ALL THE FREAKIN’ TIME.
Find or request a sling. It might work for you or it might not, but if it works for you? IT IS AWESOME! Don’t shell out the money until you know it works for you, though.
Um… for newborns those little Sweet Pea gowns that don’t have feet - makes changing them while they sleep much easier. And you’ll be changing him/her a lot while he/she sleeps.
I second the Graco-lite stroller. Loved ours. Also, the an umbrella stroller with a big basket underneath - mine was light blue with baby animals on it. It reclined enough that my kid could nap almost comfortably. It was pretty much the best umbrella stroller ever - but, it’s best for older babies who can already sit up - so put it on your list but know you’ll use it later.
Also, a live in grandmotherly nanny who calls you dear and then “takes the wee darling one” when you need a break. I think you can get them at Costco.
Rosie’s last blog post..Mother’s Day
I LOVED my hotsling!
never thought I would —-but I wore that thing OUT.
MizFit’s last blog post..How nice is this?
LOVE:
diaper wipe warmer
(babies love this too)
mirror on changing table
(so baby has something to do)
Avent bottle warmer
(quick, easy to use)
Avent sterilizer
Bumpo baby seat
(or a knock-off of that brand)
Some kind of bouncer that baby lays on while strapped in
Quick Result rectal thermometer
(key word “quick”)
DO NOT LOVE:
Diaper Genie
Boppy
(not all it’s cut out to be)
crib bed skirts and bumpers
(cute but not necessary)
Kristin’s last blog post..Mother’s Day re-cap
Bjorn’s are awesome and my hubby would even wear it (not so much a sling!).
The Snap and Go stroller is really nice to have to for that carseat time…I hated the big gargantuan sets, too bulky.
Jen’s last blog post..Learn to Speak K-lish, Lesson 3
Pro: I liked our Snugli and Little Elvis adored (maybe it should be a-door-ed?) our doorway jumper.
Con: We made most of our baby food and bought the little baby food freezer/storage cups. They always popped open in the freezer, even if I only filled them 1/3rd of the way up. It was frustrating. I went back to freezing the food in ice cube trays and then transferring to freezer proof bags.
Thanks for such a timely and useful post!
tulipmom’s last blog post..I Should Be Sleeping
I haven’t read all the comments so I’m sure I’m repeating but I thought I’d throw my 2 cents in anyhow.
First thing I couldn’t live without was the Boppy. I actually wrote a post about this last week: http://tinyurl.com/5uydmy
A highchair that is easy to clean was also a necessity. Oh, and those Playtex bottles with the liners. I realize there are newer and niftier bottles these days but these were the ONLY bottles that seemed to cure two of my children’s gas issues and the lovely bonus was that if a bottle was found misplaced somewhere (which is inevitable, isn’t it?) after a day or two it was so much nicer to just throw out the liner than scrub the nuk out of the bottle.
I also loved the infant tub that folded up so it was easy to store under the sink.
Domestic Spaz’s last blog post..5 Things You Want Your Kids To Know
The best baby gear EVER is… my boobs! ROFLOL Keeps baby well-fed, healthy, and happy! No bottles or pacis here!
Second best baby gear is a mei tai baby carrier. Easy to use from infant to toddler; can get in any color/style. (including daddy friendly colors.) Comfortable. Beats a Baby Bjorn hands down!!!
The worst was a crib, playpen, and swing. All waste of money. All of my babies (3 to date) co-slept with me, hated the swing, and the playpen.
The only baby gear I actually use is the baby carrier, bouncy seat, and car seat. I spend my money on cute baby clothes and soft soled shoes! LOL
Christine’s last blog post..Was it Father’s Day?
I’m SO with you on the Diaper Genie. Back in the day (don’t I feel old) when DC was a babe and DG’s were new…well, they were the bees knees and WORKED! The “redesign” sucks monkey balls.
My favorite every product isn’t carried anymore…sooo…
I have to say the swaddlers float my boat. Both girls were in them for as long as I could keep them trapped inside!!
Sadie’s last blog post..My clever kid…and other news…
I returned our diaper contraption and bought a Simple Human brand stainless steel garbage can at BBB. It totally contains diaper odor when shut, you can use regular kitchen bags or their brand bags, it looks nice, you can move it around the house when you are out of diapers, and it didn’t get “stained” with diaper odor. I set the inner can outside in the sun every once in a while and it’s fresh.
I also loved the diaper changing pad with the curve up sides. I moved it all around the house and even let the baby sleep on it when he was really really small.
Rayne of Terror’s last blog post..Odd sensation
My kids would NEVER sleep if not reclined, so my stroller is still better for us!
As far as high chairs, they MUST have plastic and NOT fabric covers. Otherwise, you’ll be doing laundry after each feeding.
Boppies appear to be quite a source of controversy here! I really liked mine, but have heard that there are better pillows out there. Whether you decide to breast or bottle feed, a pillow is a nice thing to have. Your arms won’t get so tired.
Swings! Wow, another source of controversy…another reason to buy used! If it doesn’t float Baby’s boat then you’re not out much money! Carson wouldn’t have survived (nor would’ve I) without the swing. Ella didn’t care either way.
And the grandmotherly nanny whom you trust IS a fabulous thing…too bad Costco is always sold out.
For newborns I really like clothes that you don’t have to put over Baby’s head. I like the shirts with side snaps…like the ones in this link:
http://www.goores.com/goores/product.asp?dept_id=3025&pf_id=PAOHIDOGMNOPFANG&ad_id=froogle&key_id=GERBERSHIRTWCUFF
Mittens ARE DUMB. They don’t stay on. Totally worthless.
Also the baby nail clippers with a magnifying glass…SO STUPID. Don’t make the same mistake as me! Just buy regular baby nail clippers.
The thing that ALL my kids loved was the swing. Oh, they would sleep for hours on end in that thing!
My 4 YO loved to be in the stroller - we have a Maclaren umbrella stroller and I love that thing because it’s so easy to fold and light enough to carry on my shoulder. We even cashed out the 401K to buy a DOUBLE Maclaren stroller but guess what? The 11 MO boy HATES strollers. How many times have we used it? I can count on one hand. When we do use it, the 4 YO sits on one side and our bags are on the other seat (ERRR)
On the other hand, the baby LOVED being in a carrier. I bought the Baby Bjorn Carrier Air because it “provides up to 138% better heat reduction and 30% better moisture reduction compared to other baby carriers.” Or at least that’s what the ad said. I don’t have anything to compare it to because my 4 YO HATED being in a carrier when she was a baby.
It’s tough because all babies are so different and what one likes is not necessarily what the other will like. Too bad you can’t rent to own so you can have a little testing period before committing to the purchase. =) I know there are always gift receipts but once I’ve opened a box and spent the time putting pieces together, it takes a lot to motivate me to take it all apart and return it if the baby doesn’t like it. I usually just chalk it up as a loss.
SherE1’s last blog post..Wanted: Parent
Fisher Price Space Saver High Chair. This thing is heaven. It’s small, it has different positions for feeding ages and stages. Laying all the way back, partially reclined, sitting straight up. It straps easily onto every chair we’ve tried so far, the tray is big (but not too big) it has two cup spots.. the whole thing is washable and light. It travels easily and goes everywhere!!! It is inexpensive and it really is a space saver. No need for a huge bulky highchair, this blends right in and your baby is at the table with you, as part of the family! I LOVE IT! and recommend it to everybody!!
I roll my eyes at diaper genies. Give me a break. What a waste of money and an eco killer!
rachel’s last blog post..I fought the yard, and I won
i believe a must have is a snap n go - i didn’t want a travel system. the snap and go is 50 bucks. and you just plop the darn car seat in it and the thing is so lightweight and takes up zero space in a car. a must have i tell you. even if you get a system i still feel that the snap and go is a must go. eye roll, a wipe warmer - i didn’t get one, no one needs their wipes warmed.
feener’s last blog post..Mother’s Day, Carvel and my honeymoon was open bar
Oooh, something I have an opinion on!
Definitely gotta have a Boppy, even if you aren’t nursing. My two youngest (didn’t have a Boppy when my oldest was born) have often taken naps on the Boppy. Ties me down to the chair, yes, but whatever works, right? Believe me, in the early weeks, it’s all about whatever works.
Vibrating bouncer seat is invaluable as a place to set the baby in the early months when you need to get up, go to the bathroom, take a shower, do some dishes, get some food to eat, etc. They MIGHT even sleep in there!
If your baby is a hold-me baby like mine, a travel system isn’t going to do much good because the carseat is SATAN. We got an Infantino Slingrider at Walmart and I put Evie in there whenever we’re out shopping. She loves it, falls asleep every time. And it looks like I’m just carrying a really big purse. Heh.
I don’t like baby baths. We have never used them, for any of the three kids. They either get baths in the sink or my husband takes them into the shower with him. By the time we put them in the tub, they’re old enough to sit up in their on their own. Waste of money and storage space!
Marilyn’s last blog post..Is it time to stress out yet?
It’s been too long that I’ve forgotten.
How about this…
A nursing bra that doesn’t look like a bra your grandma would wear!
That’s all my brain can do for now.
Queen of Shake Shake’s last blog post..Love Thy Wrinkles
I loved our swing. The kid would sleep in that thing for hours!
And the playmat thingie with overhead toys to kick and grab.
A friend to call when everything falls apart.
Joline’s last blog post..New Knits for Monday - T’s Version
My original Baby Bjorn lasted thru all 3 of my boyz and then got handed down to a friend!
It rocks.
In the Trenches of Mommyhood’s last blog post..A Peek Inside the Trenches
Some people LOVE their highchairs, but I’ve given them a lot of thought and realized with #’s 2 & 3 that one of those seats that you strap onto the regular table chair is really all you need. Takes up way less space, is easier to clean, and costs less.
Rosie’s last blog post..Mother’s Day
MUST HAVES:
-Boppy for breastfeeding or for baby sitting support
-Moby wrap for carting newborn around hands free
-Miracle wrap swaddle blanket!
-Jumperoo
-pac-n-play for travel and so Mama can shower
Amanda - VintageDutchGirl’s last blog post..Just An Ordinary Day…
We had the Metrolite, too, and loved it. But a good MacLaren umbrella stroller is a must for when you’re going somewhere that has tight spaces. The Metrolite is awesome, but can’t handle narrow aisles.
Don’t bother with a changing table. A good pad and the floor work perfectly well.
We loved the Jumperoo and bouncy seat.
Also, invest in a good exercise ball. When baby is fussy, sit on the ball and bounce gently. It calmed my two down immediately.
Christina’s last blog post..I Wish Some Gifts Came With Receipts
Cheap bibs that velcro– not snap– shut.
A cheap plastic high chair you can take outside and hose off.
A dog to eat the scraps the kid drops.
Ambien
earplugs
wine
camera
If a boy, Legos and Knex out the wazoo.
Anne Glamore’s last blog post..Smooch On Over
Wow! Great idea, Jennifer - lots of opinions.
I guess everyone (I should say everyone’s baby) has different preferences about what works/doesn’t.
We LURVED our baby bouncer for both girls. It was the vibrating one, and the adored it. Swing? They thought it was OK. Yep. Used items are perfect in that regard. We had a lot of items given to us, so that was great.
My babies never needed carried around, and I was so short that carriers never made much sense to me. Same with the Boppy. One must have a torso that can accompany such an item. I did use a very soft travel pillow when I nursed. That worked great, and both girls did eventually use the boppy when they were able to hold their heads up (laying on their tummies - using it to prop them up to play) and when they were learning to sit. It worked great for those things.
And the travel system? We used ours all the time. As we did with our umbrella stroller. Different things at different times.
Diaper Genie? Lame. Especially when I was babysitting for several babies at once, and it would be full (and stinky) after one morning. Sheesh. Just take the stinky diapers out with the trash.
Good luck!!!
Mandy’s last blog post..Evidence
I loved my Medela Pump in Style breast pump. It made pumping a lot faster since can do both sides at once and you can adjust the suction power which is great when you’re SOAR in the beginning.
I HATE the Diaper Champ. Sticks to high heaven even if you just put one poopy diaper in it!
Susan’s last blog post..Strawberries!!
OOPS I meant SORE!!! And speaking of sore, I also loved the Lansinoh nipple ointment. Really helped with the cracking.
Susan’s last blog post..Strawberries!!
I have the Chicco travel system and it is amazingly simple to get the base in and out of the car. So simple in fact that we never bothered with the “second base” for Spouses car. LOVE my Sling (ring sling called Slingezee) and the Mai Tai carrier (Baby Hawk) now that she is bigger. Makes errands and food shopping a breeze without having to carry the car seat.
She is on a play mat right now going to town…Baby Einstein.
Oh and I think the best diaper bag is no diaper bag. I have a really large stylish Fossil bag that does the trick!
On the off chance she is thinking of cloth diapering….Bum Genius or Fuzzi Bunz are the best!
Clink’s last blog post..Snap! I’ve been sucker punched! Part II
This has probably already been said but you must have a swing.
We had a Graco French bear 2 speed swing. The two speeds were fine for our needs. It was especially useful for getting my little ones to sleep or calming them when nothing else would.
Worker Mommy’s last blog post..My sweet little ones turned five, it’s a miracle I’m still alive
You won’t be able to use this right away, but when your shorty gets a little older, you should definitely get the Bright Starts Tropical Fun Around We Go Activity Station! Its like one of those exersaucer things, but its attached to an activity table with a bunch of little gadgets and widgets for the baby to play with. And the exersaucer part where the baby sits actually moves around the activity table if the baby moves his legs! Pufferfish used to get that thing going about 90 miles per hour! Its better than a regular walker because the baby practices walking but won’t roll down the stairs or anything. Plus, when he outgrows the exersaucer part, you can take it off, and the baby can just pull himself up to play with the activity station part!
My favorite baby toy EVER!
Nicki’s last blog post..Playground Playdate
Following the rules:
MUST HAVE:
Mother’s Touch Baby Bather. It’s not a plastic bath tub - it’s more like a bouncy chair with a mesh that allows the water to go through. I used one of the plastic ones with my first son and hated it. The water kept getting too deep and he kept sliding down. It was awful. This thing is THE BEST bather thing ever. Seriously. I used it until both boys were starting to try to sit up in it and then I just put them in the kitchen sink. (This thing fits into my kitchen sink.) Oh - and you can fold it up to store. http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2373665
ROLLING MY EYES AT:
a regular high chair. Just get one that fits on a kitchen chair. You can throw it in the car when going to grandma’s or a friends house and push it under the table when the kid gets big enough to eat with you. And it’s cheaper.
Cathy’s last blog post..My Mother’s Day In Numbers
Not following the rules:
I loved all of the following:
my boppy (but the breastfriend pillow looks better)
my sling (just a plain ol’ cotton one)
exersaucers (we have two - one inside and one outside)
bumpers (yeah, I know, SIDS, but both of my boys got their limbs caught in the rails of the crib)
Sleep Sacks
swaddle me blankets
learn to swaddle and get some light receiving blankets
car seat cover (for a fall/winter baby)
made the top of the boy’s dresser the changing table - just get a changing mat and secure onto the dresser
WASTED MONEY ON:
a pea pod thing for outside
those diapers with the notch cut out for the umblical cord - just fold over regular diapers
a winter “snow suit” for baby. just put the baby in the car seat and cover with blankets
a swing
DIDN’T NEED BUT LOVED:
fun socks (Little Loopies)
fun shoes (Roobez)
really soft burp cloths from Pottery Barn Kids
animal towels from PBK
*This stuff just made me smile, even when I was sleep deprived and crabby. Spend a few extra bucks for some things that will make you happy - even if they seem a little frivilous.
OH - and I think the Queen of Shakey Shake said something about a nursing bra that doesn’t look like your grandma’s bra. Um, where can I find one of those???
Cathy’s last blog post..My Mother’s Day In Numbers
Also, I have NO IDEA where to buy sexy nursing bras? Anyone? Anyone?
I hope your poor friend doesn’t have a mental break down on whats good whats not. The opinions oh they are like night and day. The best advice I’ve read is use what works best for you, even if it means trial and error. Every baby is different and has their own likes.
Now on to my minial assvice.
Loved:
The bouncy seat ..they do make ones that vibrate you know. All 3 of my boys loved it.
Someone mentioned the Playtex bottles with the liners..love! They probably don’t even make them anymore.
Not So Much Liked:
Wipe Warmer..waste of money but great idea.
The swing that goes side to side..I thought my youngest would love..hated it no matter which way it swung. The other two loved their swing. Every baby is different.
That’s all I’ve got off the top of my head. Interesting to see everyones opinion.
Jean’s last blog post..Fashionably Late
Here are my two cents worth based on having twins with opposite personalities:
*no travel systems! buy a Snap and Go and then invest in an expensive “umbrella” stroller like the Mac Claren which has four seat positions, including FULLY reclined for sleeping, and a visor that actually protects from the sun/light
*a baby carrier is a must: I started with a regular sling (Peanut Shell and Slinglings) and then moved on to a ring sling and the Moby Carrier (my favorite so far!!!), which can also be used as an impromtu blanket
*the Swaddle Designs Ultimate Receiving Blanket: it’s more expensive, but worth it b/c it’s larger (baby stays swaddled), softer and will not lose it’s shape even after being washed 100’s of times. We use ours as lightweight blankets now.
*colic water when newborns and then any product by Highland’s (homeopathic, EFFECTIVE and safe). I use the colic tablets and the teething tablets on both babies and both types of tablets work like a charm. Also, their C+ tablets are great when baby has a cold - it releives the symptoms and shortens the time they are sick.
*anything from California Baby, but especially their Calendula cream. My daughter has the fairest, most delicate porcelain skin and this cream works miracles on everything from rashes to scrapes/scratches in what seems like seconds.
*Carter’s bibs when drooling and bottle feeding (they have a inner plastic liner) and Bumkins bibs when they are solid feeding.
*sleeping gowns rock! and those hand mittens are a waste of money - just cut the baby’s nails and use the Calendula cream if a scratch does show up =-) .
Hope all this helps!
Ooops! The Homeopathic tablets are by Hyland’s.
I could not agree with you more about the gross Diaper Genie (and it’s counterparts.) I don’t even have children, yet, but I have never met a Diaper Genie that was actually worth anything. They are stinky, complicated, expensive, ugly pieces of clutter.
One of the best pieces of advice I heard at a baby shower was to put multiple crib sheets with diaper pad squares (you know, that block moisture) layered in between on the crib. So if the baby dirties the sheets in the middle of the night, you don’t have to fumble around re-making the bed- just pull off the dirty top layer and you’ll have a clean layer underneath.
Barb @ getupandplay’s last blog post..The cause of my partial deafness…
KNIT sheets for the crib.
NOT cotton sheets, KNIT sheets.
Cribs are so hard to make up, and knit sheets make them easier to change since they are stretchy.
I also agree about diaper pad squares (or rectangles) instead of mattress pads. They are FAR too difficult to put on the crib, especially if baby messes in the middle of the night.
Which lead me to my next crib related MUST HAVE, a sheet saver. My kiddo spit up in bed alot, so it was easy to just take off the sheet saver vs. changing the sheets. Also, you can you more than one sheet saver, one under Baby’s head, another under the bottom. That way if there’s a diaper blow out, you simply replace the sheet saver. Very important in the middle of the night.
Here’s a link:
http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2403292
We have had four children; the youngest is just 2 now.
There are three things that we had for our youngest child that I regret not getting for the older three. (finances was a main reason, but now that we’ve had them, I think they would have been worth the investment).
Bumbo–this thing was amazing–at three months the baby could sit in the middle of the other kids playing on the floor; she would be content for a long time. Our older kids loved having her at eye level and handed her toys etc, and played with her so nicely. It was great a meal time too–we have a large table and we would put her on the table (in the middle–supervised of course) and she could enjoy watching and reacting with everyone. She still uses it on the floor at two year old!)
Glider Rocker with Ottoman–awesome. I’ve never been so comfortable nursing…I nursed all the kids until around a year old. We bought a nice one that coordinates with our other furniture and will put it in the family room when the baby leaves the crib. It’s big so more than one of us can sit and rock together!
Jogging Stroller–we live near a trail and the lake. This thing can take anything. My husband loves running, so he take the youngest with on hour long treks….a break for me. We both use it and love it.
We also loved our travel system, our pack and play, exersaucer, jolly jumper, and a travel fisher-price swing someone lent us. We did use a change table and still do–we are both tall and found it helped our backs not to bend over so much.
Hope this helps!
PS We can never figure out why people buy diaper garbage things. We bring all diapers to the garbage in the garage immediately. No smell ever.
Sonja’s last blog post..Sweetness
Could NOT live without : Baby Whisperer, Maclaren stroller, Bjorn and MOST IMPORTANT FOR INFANT WAS THE FISHER PRICE BOUNCY. Both my kids LIVED in it when in the intial “blob phase” (first 3 months). I would plop them in and carry it from room to room and they would happily watch me cook, shower, etc. OH and the vibrate feature! My son LOVED it (my daughter less) and yes he seems to have turned out find even though his brain rattled around non-stop for months
I never even owned a swing! I didn’t need it!
Could easily live without: the Diaper Genie (it worked fine, but YES expensive refills and I found just tossing the diapers into a plastic supermarket bag and knotting tighly worked just fine), never owed a pack n play (baby jail) but I guess it would be good if you plan on lots of overnights not at home, Baby Mozart videos
The bouncer was an awesome invention and a must have as well as a very good stroller system!! The bobby was useless since I’m short.My son hated the BUmbo too! The Fisherprice jumperoo with animals is an absolute must have!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Zippers on clothes-you will learn to hate buttons!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Splurge on the stroller, you won’t be disappointed (plus, it’s usually purchased by some benevolent group of friends or relatives). We have a Sit ‘n Stand for our two — the babies were 3 years apart in age. Bought the Joovy brand and would highly recommend it. It maneuvers well, even with 60 pounds of little ones. My son likes it (he’s now four) because he can sit on the back bench or stand when he’s tired of walking. It also came with an accesory so that we could strap in the infant carseat. Only downer — the storage basket is too small for mall trips! If you’re going to invest in a job stroller, you do need to buy the better brand. Many of them are difficult to steer.
The resale shops are great to look for furniture. We purchased a basic crib and repainted it. We re-purposed a child’s desk (new, safe paint) to be a changing table. I’d rather spend our furniture budget on them when they’re older.
Tried Diaper Genie with #1. Hated it!
In hormonal state I threw out the Genie and bought Diaper Champ for #2. Still stinky, though easier to use and less expensive.
For fall or winter infants, invest in a “Bundle Me” by JJ Cole. It’s a sherpa kind of sleeping bag that inserts into the baby carrier. That plus a hat and there is no need for a snow suit (which some advocates say pose a safety issue with securely fastening baby in the carrier). My daughter had a whole wardrobe of hats and it was cute. We usually have zero degree weather in Jan/Feb and this gave me peace of mind that my babies were warm.
Also for fall/winter babies, consider a Swaddle Me, which is a baby sleeping bag-type bunting. My babies would always houdini out of their swaddled receiving blankets.
Lastly, take advantage of gift receipts! There are only so many 0-3 mo. clothes you truly need! Take them and exchange them for 3/6, 6/9, and 12 mo. basics like onesies. Baby will need them, regardless of the seasons. And, they literally wake up one morning and outgrow their clothes.
LOVED LOVED LOVED this Infantino Baby sling thingy! http://www.infantino.com/Carriers/151-210.php Could not have lived with out it! Especially nice for breast feeding in public, or for when you don’t want strangers or family for that matter in yo babies face! That always makes me so mad!! . “Oh he’s nursing!” Because that is the only time they would not invade my personal space to kiss the baby! And they did not know if he really was or not because he was hidden. My youngest lived in his until he was the max weight limit. Too bad I did not have it for the first three.
thefarmerswife’s last blog post..Shakin’ It Like A Hillbillie Shakira!
LOVED:
Fisher Price Papasan swing
Nuk Paci’s
Balmex, Butt Paste & Desitin
Kate Spade diaper bags
BOB Revolution stroller (best investment EVER!!!)
Water Babies sunblock SPF 50 (I live in FL)
Pampers diapers, don’t waste your money on the cheaper ones
Stride Rite shoes (when the can walk)
Crocs (for the summer)
WORTHLESS: (in our household at least)
Boppy
Maclaren umbrella stroller
Huggies
Couldn’t live without:
Baby Bjorn
Exersaucer
Baby swing that went back and forth and side to side
Never crazy about:
Playmats
Boppy
Bottle warmer
Jackie’s last blog post..Sigh.
My assvice.
Buy nothing new except car restraint.
Buy as little as possible.
Borrow everything possible.
Different things work for different babies. Save your money for when they get older and need to be educated. Seriously, you can spend a fortune on products but really, babies need very little.
dani’s last blog post..Spook. Probably not for reading in a Catholic hospital.
i skimmed thru most of these, and see the diaper genie is not well received!
i looked into genie II which they say is easier to use and more blocked in.
now i wonder…. ( i looked at the reviews from BRU & target)
i only have a boppy b/c it was loaned to me. i may or may not use it. we’ll see.
all this has been pretty helpful since i’m expecting little bean… but i do realize that all babies are different and some things work better for others. i guess really i won’t know till i do it.
then i’ll kick myself for not listening to all of your wise reviews!
great post to read when i have only 8 weeks left…..
mpotter’s last blog post..bizzy-bizzy-bizzzzy