Creating a baby registry for your first time (or even your third) can feel both exciting and overwhelming. With so many options available, from bottles and diapers to monitors and car seats, you may be uncertain of what to choose.
The First Years, whose mission is to encourage parents and caregivers to embrace every first moment of their newborn’s life, offers a wide range of high-quality, long-lasting products that’ll make your transition to parenthood a breeze. We’ve selected the top five items that are a must for your baby registry and will give you more bang for your buck.
Bathing your bundle of joy for the very first time is a monumental milestone in parenthood. While you may be excited for this moment, it can be tricky (and nerve wracking!) to hold onto your little one’s slippery body. With The First Years Sure Comfort Folding Bather, you can easily and safely wash your baby in the bathtub and in most kitchen sinks with its no-slip seat and raised mesh sides. The inclined bather, which is available only at Target, can also be used from the time of the baby’s birth up until they’re 15 pounds or begin sitting up unassisted.
Sit or Stand™ Potty & Urinal – 2-in-1 Potty Training System
When creating a baby registry, moms and dads tend to select items geared towards the first 12 months of their infant’s life. It can be a good idea, however, to add a few products that your baby will need as they continue to age. For instance, the Sit or Stand™ Potty & Urinal is great to have on hand when your toddler begins to show readiness for the potty-training stage. This 2-in-1 system is great for boys and girls alike, functioning as both a potty and a urinal that’s easy to empty and clean, features a built-in splash guard and can be adjusted to three different height options. Your child can successfully practice using the potty in a sit or stand mode, free of accidents.
A baby’s hungry cry can be stress inducing no matter the time of day. With The First Years Gentle Warmth™ Digital Bottle Warmer on hand, you can keep your infant happy and fed and make your life go a little more smoothly–especially when it’s 2 a.m. and you’re exhausted. Through its digital touchscreen, the bottle warmer quickly heats up breast milk, formula and even baby food jars based on the heating time and temperature you select. You can also sterilize multiple pacifiers at once, so you’ll always have them on hand whenever your baby gets fussy.
Once your baby makes their debut, you’ll want to do everything in your power to keep your newborn safe and healthy. By adding The First Years Modular Steam Sterilizer to your parenting arsenal, you’ll be able to kill 99% of common germs with natural steam in minutes. Through multiple tray compartments, you’ll have plenty of space for sanitizing bottle nipples, breast pump accessories, pacifiers, teethers and bottles, to name a few. The modular design also doubles as storage, saving counter space in your kitchen and keeping your baby’s products sterilized for an entire day. Available only at Target!
One of the most exciting moments of parenthood is introducing your baby to a world of foods and flavors–will they love or hate peas and carrots? Are bananas their favorite over apples? Experiment with different vegetables, fruits, meats and cereals with The First Years First Fresh Foods Blender & Steamer. Touting a powerful motor that allows you to process your own baby food to the perfect consistency, the blender can hold up to three-and-a-half cups of food, so you can quickly and efficiently meal prep for the week.
Moms are teachers, healers, chefs, doctors, sleep-consultants, chief story officers, entertainment executives, and food sources, and that’s usually just before noon. And above all else, moms are inventive. Like the moms in this story who are all are ground-breakers in the field of wellness. From chemical-free products to Black maternal health care to kids’ mental health, these amazing mompreneurs are here to heal the world, one kid, and one mama, at a time. Scroll on to see what they’ve invented.
Addressing the Disparity in Black Maternal Health: MaeHealth
Moved by the current racial and social climate and struck by the experiences of loved ones—primarily women of color—who have felt inadequately supported through their pregnancy experiences, Maya Hardigan, a Brooklyn-based mom of three, was moved to use her nearly two decades of experience in healthcare to found MaeHealth. With the goal of expanding access to pregnancy and postpartum resources for Black women who experience deep disparities in maternal health outcomes, she created this online destination to support pregnancy and postpartum health, providing symptom tracking and curated, culturally specific education and lifestyle resources for Mae mamas. A key goal of Mae's is to provide Black women access to local maternal health experts like doulas, who are known to improve pregnancy satisfaction and outcomes.
We already love mom-founded Mighty + Bright for their books and calendars that help support kids and families through tough times including divorce, cancer, and major change. During the pandemic, Mighty + Bright founder Sara Olsher was distressed by the lack of mental health resources for kids, especially amid a flurry of warnings from pediatric mental health organizations about a "national state of emergency for kids mental health." Olsher partnered with parenting educator Danielle Bettmann, and together they designed a 12-month "Kids Mental Health Skills at Home" program. Based on scientific research and backed by an impressive advisory board, the program is designed to create a positive foundation for kids' mental health. With a combination of a physical product delivered to your home every month and easy-to-follow parent support, Mighty + Bright has once again made it easy for families to build the necessary skills for handling life's toughest stuff.
It didn’t sit right with her when Melissa Bowley’s doctor told her that her postpartum bladder leakage just “came with the territory” of being a mom of two. Her doctor did not offer her wellness services or introduce her to pelvic floor therapy. And so, the Flourish Fund was born, the first-ever experiential baby registry where parents can register for support services and wellness items, from pregnancy to parenthood. New and expecting parents can register for services through a vetted network that includes lactation consultants, sleep consultants, pelvic floor therapy, and prenatal and postpartum yoga. There are also products that support wellness for baby and mama, including sleep machines, developmental toys, and more.
Guardian Lane sources counselors and therapists from around the world who take in-person therapeutic activities and turn them into self-guided videos so for families, children, and even school counselors, have access to coping mechanisms designed with children in mind. After leaving her first tech startup which she and her husband built, Guardian Lane founder Kristina Jones found herself reflecting on her childhood grief: Kristina was just seven years old when her father died, and she never received professional help to help her process this trauma. Kristina wrote a book, My Forever Guardian, about a group of young friends who help one another after the death of a loved one or a pet. While researching the book, she discovered that the kind of mental health services available for grieving families still involved in-person visits. She created Guardian Lane as a way to bring grief counseling and help directly into a child’s home. Guardian Lane started with grief counseling from the death of a loved one, but the platform will soon help children through other life experiences such as divorce, bullying, and the mental-health effects and stress of COVID in our children’s lives.
Developed by two moms, Stacey Graham and Brandi Vanderbeek, and their natural-born awareness of the germs and bacteria brought into the home, TAG (Together Against Germs™) is a biodegradable, disposable, and waterproof protective cover for the bottom of any bag. Designed to keep dirt and germs from the ground and surfaces, from public transportation to airports to restrooms, and even muddy fields, TAG is more relevant now in the time of COVID than ever. As Graham and Vanderbeek put it, “TAG is the accessory you never knew you needed for the problem you didn't know you had. Spread joy, not germs!” Sold in boxes of 10, the individually wrapped bags fit easily into a purse or pocket so you have it on the ready.
This mama-owned and operated new postpartum recovery subscription includes doctor-reviewed products and content designed to meet a women’s needs throughout the postpartum period, from birth recovery to hair loss. Think vitamins, recovery and energy tonics, scalp serum, body butter, nipple balm, and organic teas. Anya was founded by Jane Baecher, a mom of two who lived a rollercoaster postpartum journey while working at Rent the Runway, along with Ariana Saunders, a former senior leader of data and analytics for goop, One Kings Lane, and J. Crew. Their Chief Impact Officer is an Indian actress and new mom Freida Pinto, who leads social impact and advocacy for women’s postpartum health.
Founded by mom and inventor Davielle Jackson, Femi Secrets has become the most trusted, healthy, sustainable, and innovative source for feminine care. Davielle, the mother of a beautiful little girl, is on a mission to normalize period discussion and empower women to have real talk about their cycles and the products they use so they can make healthier, more informed decisions. Femi Secrets products include the Pretty Panty (a panty with a built-in linter), pads, liners, wipes, bath bombs, fibroid tea, and more. Davielle is a powerhouse unto herself, making entrepreneurial history by entering into Wal-Mart in a record period of six months. She is an award-winning entrepreneur, a two-time 43 North Startup Competition winner, author of Ready, Set, Go! and founder of “I am #1”, a not-for-profit dedicated to the success of young women.
Founded by mom Vanessa Dawson, Arber is the first-of-its-kind organic, non-toxic plant wellness company. Like so many of us, Dawson turned to gardening to cope with all of the stress of parenting in a pandemic. She was surprised at just how hard it was to find non-toxic, safe, organic products that she could use to ward off diseases and pests on her plants both indoors and out. She founded Arber to meet that need. Arber provides people-, pet-, and planet-safe products in concentrate form delivered right to you. Choose from products like fungicides, insecticides, and plant food, all designed to keep your plants, and you, healthy and happy.
Founded and owned by businesswoman, entrepreneur, and mom Zhena Muzyka, Magic Hour is a luxury tea brand that creates handmade, home-blended teas chosen to connect you to the world through tea ceremony. Muzyka, a former TV and radio host, is an intuitive herbalist, certified aromatherapist, a Level 3 Reiki Master, and the author of Life by the Cup: Inspiration for a Purpose-Filled Life. Drawing on her deep knowledge of herbal medicine and tea blending, each magical tea blend is curated to support mental and physical wellness, along with awareness and connection.
“I believe self-care is an art form like painting, poetry and dance,” says founder of SPARITUAL and mother of two, Shel Pink. SPARITUAL, a pioneering, sustainable, vegan beauty brand is based in the rituals of self-care, something we all know moms need more of. Pink is also the author of Slow Beauty and is an expert in finding those moments in which we can practice little self-care and wellness rituals. And, as Pink puts it, “When practiced over time, these small rituals add up to manifest results—not only feeling healthier and more joyful but in realizing true beauty and timeless aging.” The brand itself is committed to creating clean, non-toxic products for both individuals and spa professionals, and SPARITUAL’s is rooted in both the ancient and present healing traditions of the spa as self-care. Sign us up!
After having her third child, Michele Henry searched for skincare treatments that could support her changing skin, the shift in hormones, age, pregnancies, and life. And as much as she wanted to, as a busy mom, she couldn’t exactly fit multiple spa visits a week. It seemed no matter how much time, and money, she spent, nothing seemed to work. This is why she created FACE FOUNDRIÉ a walk-in spa and skincare service, which offers mini-facials, facial waxing, lash extensions, and an array of curated, custom skincare products. There are now locations throughout the country, and you can shop the products online.
As a childhood leukemia survivor and mother of three (including one with multiple learning disabilities), Tonya Harris has dedicated her life to helping parents learn how toxins in the home can affect their family’s health. In addition to Board certification and a Master's degree in holistic nutrition, she holds multiple certificates in the environmental health field. She created the Slightly Greener Method™ as a way of offering busy moms simple solutions to reduce toxins without turning their lifestyle upside-down. She is also the author of The Slightly Greener Method: Detoxifying Your Home Is Easier, Faster, and Less Expensive Than You Think.
Founder and mother, Narineh Bedrossian, created the ella+mila brand in 2014 out of necessity — she wasn't finding nail-care products that her daughters could safely use; everything was made with unpronounceable and harmful chemicals. Not only do they make nail care products, but they also now make makeup and body care products all made without parabens, phthalates, lanolin, formaldehyde, Xylene, Triphenyl Phosphate, and other toxic additives There’s more than 22o nail shades, and we’re betting you’ve seen them at Target, Ulta, Rite-Aid, CVS, Walgreens or on Amazon. Now you’ll know that ella+mia is mom-founded and has your family’s well-being at heart.
Keeping Kids Hydrated: Water Your Body, Water Your World
Amber Tamar Harris
As a parent of a two-year-old baby girl mom, Amber Tamar Harris found getting her to drink enough water a daily struggle. So she decided to write a book, Water Your Body, Water Your World, to help her own daughter, and other kids, understand the importance of water and why it is so beneficial. From taking a bath and brushing our teeth to sustaining life on the planet, when we celebrate water it puts kids in the mindfulness mindset from an early age: one sip at a time!
When Stephanie Boone's beloved dog, Luna, began suffering from devastating side-effects caused by pesticide poisoning caused by commonly prescribed monthly flea-and-tick medication and quarterly pest control services, Luna's vet recommended putting her down. In Stephanie's own words, "That was just not an option." Her research led her to the shocking discovering that Luna's story was not unique and that there were many common household and pet pesticides that were toxic. So, she founded Wondercide, making safe and effective pest protection for pets, humans, and homes. Six years later, on the day Luna passed away, Stephanie was invited to be on Shark Tank. Wondercide is now the leader in non-toxic pest protection, making products that are naturally derived, DEET-free, have no harsh chemicals, and are safe and effective. In addition, Wondercide is a Green America, gold-certified business for high standards in social and environmental impacts and all their products are made with biodegradable and recyclable packaging. Once pet-parent, now busy mom, Stephanie's story will inspire us all!
When it came time for Kiley Taslitz Anderson to transition her first son from breastmilk to formula, her pediatrician recommended "any" probiotic. But what was the best one? It turns out, there really wasn't one: so she decided to help invent one herself. Jetson's probiotic for kids, Jettie offers clinically proven probiotic strains for kids and babies, in an easy-to-take, flavorless powder that can be mixed in with any food or drink. In addition, Jetson is now offering a new Gut Recovery for Kids which helps combat side-effects from antibiotics, including replenishing the good bacteria. replenish the good bacteria and combats uncomfortable side effects like nausea and diarrhea as a result of antibiotics.
When Krystn Keller discovered her son Elliot was born with severe eczema and over 50 allergies, she knew it would take special care to combat outbreaks. After all the recommended soaps failed to help, she decided to try making a gentler soap herself. Keller had no prior experience making soap, so she spent hours watching tutorials and experimenting in her own kitchen. After three months, she made the perfect batch. Soon after, Keller and her husband started Keller Works to help the scores of other people looking for hypoallergenic soap. Now, her Mobile, Alabama-based business serves people all over the country, employs local residents, and sells raw and refined products that include soaps, body butters, salves and essential oils.
When Arizona mom Cindy Trevizo took her kids to a restroom in a public park and found an empty soap dispenser, she’d had it. Tired of a lack of ways to keep kiddos hands clean, Cindy, a former elementary school teacher, and her husband, Gabe, set out to solve the problem. So, they invented Suds2Go, the first dual-purpose water bottle that allows you to both hydrate and wash your hands. The patented design includes a refillable container, a pump, and separate valves for drinking and rinsing to avoid contamination. Now you can have clean hands, wherever you are!
Jaime Cross worked in corporate banking for years but left to be home with her newborn son. Two years later, she couldn't staunch the desire to build an empire that had a worldwide impact and was powered by purpose. In response, she founded and launched MIG Living, a True Beauty movement focused on restorative products, health and wellness. In addition to her best-selling ritual cleansing bars, MIG Living sells oils, lotions bars, balms and even men's products.
Carolyn Harrington was thrilled to welcome her first baby girl into the family after having two boys. But when they discovered Maty was born with major heart defects and Harrington was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, she knew there had to be better options than modern medicine. So, she began researching natural ways of healing and found a new passion. She created Maty’s natural and organic whole food health alternatives in her own kitchen after researching natural and alternative health. She relied on old-time remedies and used ingredients from her own kitchen, turning them into health promoting agents. Now she sells complete lines of products for babies, kids and adults everywhere!
Kori Estrada was on a mission to eliminate scary chemicals found in everyday products like toothpaste from her home. When she had a hard time finding a natural replacement for her oral care products that she actually enjoyed and that worked, she and her husband, John Estrada, along with her brother, Dr. Derek Gatta DMD MS FACP started formulating oral care products backed by science and that were safe enough to eat. With main ingredient, hydroxyapatite, a natural mineral that makes up 90% of tooth enamel, RiseWell was on its way. Launched in May 2019, the company is now bringing to market "the safest and most effective oral care products."
Joy Elena's family has been in the mattress business for over 50 years. Taking her knowledge in the mattress industry, IT, marketing and PR she took a leap and created her own bed in a box brand, after giving up a prior venture doing the same thing back in 2003. The mom of two now runs Sleepenvie, a company that offers high-density foam mattresses with optimal structural support, which means mattress reliability and longevity. The end result is an amazing and comfortable mattress that lasts.
After having her first child, Carolyn Ellspermann became very conscious of the products and ingredients she used on her family. She shifted to using more organic, natural and clean products, but ended up avoiding bug spray all together because of the harsh aerosol chemicals. Natural products didn't bring the confidence that they were actually providing enough protection, especially when it came to Zika, West Nile and Lyme disease. In 2016, Ellspermann started to work on a new kind of insect repellent that was both safe and extremely effective at repelling disease-carrying insects, and Proven Insect Repellent was born. The safe products use Picardin as long-lasting and non-hazardous bug repellent that gives parents peace of mind and pesky bugs away from kids.
Online Destination For All Things Postpartum: Bodily
Bodily
After having her first child, Tovah Haim was startled to find the lack of information, poor products and the "taboo" nature surrounding birth and recovery. In response, she launched Bodily, a modern approach that supports women, partners and anyone else with resources, products and research to navigate the postpartum period. Currently, Bodily's shop carries Birth Boxes, breastfeeding supplies, belly support and mesh undies.
Becky and six-year-old daughter Lola Vandenbroek founded Girlpalooza as a safe way to play "dress up" with bath and beauty products. The two set out to create products free from harmful ingredients like parabens, mineral oils and talc. In addition, Girlpalooza products are vegan, come with empowering scents and messaging and a portion of each sale go towards charities that support young girls.
Two years ago, when mom of four and health coach Melissa Evans’ daughter came down with a sore throat, Melissa wished there was something she could provide to soothe her kiddo. That’s when she noticed there were no options that she felt comfortable with. Cough drops and lozenges posed a risk for choking and, for the most part, contained chemicals like artificial colors, flavors and ingredients. She then came up with the idea for a worry-free, healthier, effective and fun alternative for kids. Lolleez are available at Target, CVS, Stop & Shop, Kroger and on Amazon! Lolleez come in packs of 15 pops: Watermelon, Strawberry, Orange Mango and a Variety Pack for a suggested retail price of $6.99.
Jennifer Holland had her “aha!” moment at the doctor’s office with her young son. It led her to create Throat Scope—the world's first illuminated tongue depressor that lights up the entire throat and mouth. Her invention is not only popular, in 2017 it won silver at the Edison Awards in New York for her innovation. This mama always dreamed of inventing something that would make the world a better place and she’s achieved that goal: she’s on a mission to educate families on how to recognize the signs of oral cancer or detect a sore throat, strep throat, thrush, inflamed gums and tooth pain. The stay-at-home mom’s innovative product is now available in 140 countries.
Kat Schneider wanted to do the right thing for her health and her baby, so when she found out she was pregnant she started taking prenatal vitamins. That’s when she noticed that many supplements had questionable ingredients, and worse, the ones she was taking didn’t even list the ingredients. So she decided to found Ritual: subscription-based supplements delivered directly to your door, each month. They are all non-GMO, vegan, gluten and soy-free and all are designed exclusively for women, with clear ingredients lists so you always know what you are putting in your body.
You’re selecting nursery furniture, choosing the perfect name, and creating a baby registry, but what about you? Your body and your life are going through big changes, and you need new ways to take care of yourself. Read on to find out the best things that expectant moms can do for themselves as they wait for their bundle of joy to arrive.
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1. Yoga Taking a prenatal yoga class can do wonders for your aching muscles. If your body is struggling with the extra weight of your impending bundle of joy, squeezing in a yoga session even once a week can help keep you feeling lithe. Look for low-impact classes in person or online.
2. Prenatal Massage If it's in your budget, a prenatal massage can be one of the best things you do for yourself. Not only is a prenatal massage a welcome chance to focus on yourself for an hour or two, it's also a great way to leave stress behind. A good prenatal massage therapist will know how to work out your sore muscles in a way that's safe for you and baby.
3. Undies Many pregnant women notice early on that their regular undies just aren't cutting it anymore. Hemp undies from WAMA are exceptionally breathable. They also have some give to accommodate a growing belly. If you find that you are leaking a little, Thinx underwear can be a lifesaver. They also work well for the postpartum stage.
4. Relax...Just Do It It's no secret that pregnant women are next-level tired a lot of the time. Since you can't add extra hours into the day to get more sleep, find ways to sneak some relaxation into your day. Decaf teas can help you unwind and bring some calm to the chaos of life when preparing for a new little one. Try a Vahdam Teas sampler pack of herbal teas to find a favorite flavor. LaRue 1680 has tea sets, including a Bridgerton Collection, for when you want to relax and feel fancy without leaving the house. A nice blanket for lying around is another great way to up your relaxation game. An Olive & Linen blanket makes couch time seem like an event. These blankets are made from premium Turkish cotton that truly works well for all seasons, as well as for snuggling with a baby! Light a candle from Sea Witch Botanicals. They're made with essential oils and plant-derived waxes instead of the plastic-based paraffin wax used in many candles. There are even unscented candles great for pregnant women sensitive to smells who still want the ambience of a candle-lit evening or bath.
5. Safer Beauty When growing a new life, many expectant moms start paying more attention to what's in their beauty products. Some don't like what they find when they start digging into the ingredients. Other pregnant people find that changing hormones mean they need to add to, or change, their normal beauty routine. It's common for pregnant women to find they no longer can tolerate the fragrance of their current products or that they suddenly need oil-free products.
Costal Citizen is a fragrance-free, oil-free, no-rinse gentle cleansing water perfect for perking up skin when you are tired, which is probably all time time during pregnancy. Because Coastal Citizen is a no-rinse cleanser, it is a great option for expectant moms who need a quick refresh on-the-go. The Raw Beauty Company uses ingredients like cucumber fruit extract, green tea leaf extract, aloe leaf and other natural ingredients to create the super-moisturizers and derma-scrubs pregnant skin often needs.
Spa Technologies uses nutrient-dense organic laminaria algae and other natural ingredients to moisturize, cleanse and revitalize skin. Pregnant women often need some extra TLC, and Spa Technologies delivers that extra punch to help them look and feel their best. Danielle Fishel of Boy Meets World fame created Be Free when she was pregnant and wanted to avoid harsh chemicals in her hair products. When other clean products left her hair looking dull, she took matters into her own hands. Be Free is the best of both worlds with natural ingredients that leave hair looking shiny and healthy.
MyChelle Demaceuticals makes science-backed skin care products free of phthalates, parabens, petroleum, sulfates and artificial fragrances and colors. So the brand's line of moisturizers, masks and sun protection products are worth considering. Fragrance With Benefits is a great choice for expecting Moms who want to avoid the harsh chemicals in insect repellant. This perfume uses essential oils to help keep mosquitos and other critters away. TrapStix lip balm keeps lips moist with natural ingredients that are safer for pregnant women.
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6. Comfy Feet As every mom can tell you, pregnancy takes a toll on your feet. Even if you are lucky enough not to experience feet that grow while nurturing a new life, chances are your feet will still be very sore. Footnanny has you covered with their unscented mommy cream. This light cream is perfect for feet (and hands) that need a refresh at the end of the day. If you are experiencing more pain in your feet, you may need something stronger! Mineralgia was created by doctors to help relieve pain and stimulate circulation with plant-based, unscented ingredients. Achy feet can also be soothed by infrared therapy. Bright Health offers at-home relief for achy feet quickly. You probably want your feet to look good too! Nail polish without the harsh chemicals found in many products are a good idea when expecting. Check out SOPHi nail polish, which is free from harsh chemicals, making it safer for baby. When you can't just sit down and relax, you can take some steps to keep comfy. Compression socks, like those from Dr. Motion, can do wonders for feet prone to swelling.
7. The Best Shoes One way to not need to pamper your feet so much is to make sure you are wearing the comfiest shoes possible. But this doesn't mean that pregnant moms need to sacrifice style. Try All Birds Wool Loungers. These shoes slip on so you won't need to bend over to put them on. This is useful both when you have a growing belly and during postpartum when your hands may be too busy holding a baby to worry about tying your shoes. Plus, they are super-soft inside which is a treat for achy feet. Need something a little dressier? NYDJ now makes heels with a focus on comfort. These classic pumps have a cushioned insole with memory foam padding so you can still be ready for the office or a dressy event while taking care of your pregnancy feet.
8. Pregnancy Pillow Nearly every pregnant person has experienced sleepless nights. Maybe it's because of a growing belly. Or perhaps you have a party baby who likes to wiggle around all night long. It could be that common pregnancy symptoms like nausea and heartburn make it hard to get to sleep. There are a few ways to make this easier. A Boppy Total Body Pillow is a contoured pillow the length of your body that works wonders by giving you support where you need it. Another type of pillow that can work great for pregnancy aches is the Zoey Sleep Curve Pillow. The Zoey pillow has a unique design that allows users to remove or add more filling to make the pillow just right for you! The unique cut-out shape also has space to mold to the contours of your neck. This is especially useful for people who sleep on their side. This is important during pregnancy because doctors recommend that all pregnant people sleep on their sides!
9. Comfy Clothes Your clothes probably stopped feeling comfortable sometime in your first trimester. Splurging on some new clothes that give you breathing room and make you feel pretty is something only you can do for yourself! There are plenty of maternity clothes you will wear during your pregnancy, but grabbing some flexible clothing that you can wear when you don't feel like wearing stretchy pants can go a long way toward helping you feel your best. Look for a skirt with an adjustable waistband and that can be worn a bit longer or shorter like the NuNuNu World layered skirt or a zippered hoodie in a size up that you can wear as you go up and down in size.
10. Splurge for the Baby Usually there are a couple of things on the baby registry that will make you very happy. Don't wait for someone else to make that purchase. Save your mental energy and get that special item you are not sure anyone else will get for you. A popular choice is a cute going-home or birth-announcement outfit. This one from Tenth & Pine that declares "Hello I'm new here!" will make you smile every time you imagine your new baby wearing it. Another good choice is a personalized necklace from Tiny Tags. Order a necklace with every member of the family's name and have it ready to wear as soon baby makes their grand appearance.
11. Self-Care Hydration is key to feeling good throughout pregnancy. A small thing like a new water bottle can help motivate you to keep drinking throughout the day. A cute Welly water bottle is a good choice. Make it easy to get a full serving of fruits and veggies everyday to make sure your growing baby gets the nutrition they need and to help you feel your best. A Nutribullet Pro personal blender is an easy way to quickly whip up a smoothie a day. Add some yogurt or peanut butter for a protein boost.
12. Combat Pregnancy Brain Being pregnant may mean developing pregnancy brain and forgetting important tasks. That may sometimes mean forgetting to charge your phone. An Anker battery pack that is lightweight is a must-have addition to any pregnant person's bag. Being able to charge on the go, or even just while walking around the house, can be a lifesaver and let you keep talking or strolling. Better organization is also a must when you don't feel like you are operating at full capacity. Consider a 1Thrive organizational board with a customizable combination of chalkboards, whiteboards and corkboards in various sizes. This is a lifesaver for keeping track of doctor's appointments and your ever-growing to-do list that comes along with preparing for a new baby. Anything that keeps you organized in other parts of your life can be helpful too. A Bow & Spring jewelry box, for example, is helps you keep jewelry organized, visible and easy to access.
A babymoon is the perfect way to relax and reconnect with your partner before having to tackle sleepless nights, diaper changes and bottles. While there is no one right way to babymoon, there are some things every mom-to-be should consider when planning a pre-baby getaway. Read on for tips on how to choose when and where to go and what to pack. Can’t travel? We have you covered with great ideas for babymoon staycations.
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1. Choose the Right Time Timing is key when it comes to planning a fun and relaxing babymoon. Most obstetricians think the best time to travel is between 14 and 28 weeks of pregnancy. This is the ideal time to plan a babymoon because the fatigue and nausea of the first trimester will have passed but the discomfort many moms-to-be experience in the third trimester will not have set in yet. Added bonus: Planning a trip for the second trimester will also give you something to look forward to when you're struggling through the worst of those early pregnancy symptoms.
2. Find the Perfect Destination With months of sleepless nights ahead, you'll want a destination that offers plenty of opportunities to relax. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has plenty of advice about how to stay safe on cruise ships, airplanes and during international travel, so nearly everything is on the table for expectant moms. If you have any concerns about your health and your baby's, select a destination that is not more than a few hours from your doctor or a large hospital capable of handling pregnancy complications. Consider your pregnancy symptoms as well. Even if you loved cruising before becoming pregnant, if you tend to get nauseated on the water, you may want to avoid any activity that could cause sea sickness.
3. Set Your Budget Babies are expensive! Before getting carried away with your vacation, think about how much you can realistically spend. If the answer you come up with is "not a lot," don't worry. You can have an amazing babymoon on a budget. Consider a babymoon staycation! Look for mid-week hotel specials in your town or find a spa that gives prenatal massages and book a couple's day there. Or, look to nearby towns that are an easy drive from where you live to keep costs down. If you already have a lot of baby necessities from an older sibling or can snag hand-me-downs, consider asking family and friends for donations toward a babymoon rather than creating a baby registry. Instead of receiving baby gear you don't need, you can request gift certificates for dinner at a restaurant on the beach, a night at a hotel or a prenatal massage in the on-site spa.
4. Get Your Doctor's Okay Before any babymoon plans are booked, check with your OB or midwife to make sure your trip is medically approved. Then schedule a pre-trip checkup to make sure you and the baby are in good health before jetting off. Since this appointment will be close to your departure date, most of your vacation plans will be set. That means it's a good opportunity to ask any questions you have about your destination, such as whether certain local foods are safe to eat or how to avoid Zika virus. Get the okay for any location-specific activities, like rock climbing or long hikes. This appointment is also a good time to ask travel-related questions, such as how often you should get up to walk during a flight or where to place your seatbelt for a long car ride. Pro tip: Some airlines and cruise ships have restrictions on when pregnant women can travel, so you can ask your doctor for a letter confirming your week of pregnancy at this appointment.
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5. Pack Wisely Stick to the essentials when packing so you won't have a mountain of laundry to do when you get home. You also want to be comfortable and cute! A babymoon is the perfect opportunity to refresh your wardrobe and get some basics to take you through the rest of your pregnancy and postpartum. A cute pair of Allbirds slip-ons will help ensure you are able to walk around in comfort on your babymoon. As a bonus, you will have a great pair of shoes you can put on hands-free once your bebe arrives. You can also justify picking up some new clothes to fit your growing belly, like a lounge dress or stretchy leggings from KyteBaby.
6. Plan Some Quality Couples Time A babymoon is a great chance to strengthen your relationship with your partner. Remember what brought you together and enjoy each other's company as a couple before life changes. Take some time to talk about what you are looking forward to and what you are worrying about. If you need some ideas, The Adventure Challenge: Couples Edition is a fun scratch-off book full of ideas to make sure you don't always have the same old date night while on your babymoon.
7. Babymoon at Home Whether you have to stay close to home because you are on bed rest or because every extra penny is going to the baby, you can still have a great at-home babymoon. Treat your babymoon at home the same as you would if you were going out of town. Set an out-of-office auto-response for email and turn your ringer off. Plan to spend a long weekend (or more) doing nothing but pampering yourself, hanging with your main squeeze, eating all your favorite foods and binge-watching whatever you like. A long bath with candles and a weekend of lounging around can do wonders to help you reset and get ready for the next phase of pregnancy—and your baby!
Lovevery is on nearly every mom-to-be’s baby registry. The stage-based play essential subscription box offers timeless toys perfect for every age (and let’s face it, is adorable).
Now, you don’t have to subscribe to grab the brand’s signature products: just head to Target! Starting today, Lovevery is dropping a new lineup of Playthings exclusively for Target and it’s just as fabulous as shopping from the OG site.
The new collection of Lovevery Playthings is already available in the baby aisle and includes classics like The Play Gym and The Block Set, in addition to Target-only items for children zero to 18 months. The collaboration makes access to the company’s developmental products easier than ever.
Each new product is available for under $25 and comes with access to a Digital Play Guide, expert tutorials, play ideas, activities, developmental tips and stage-based emails. You can shop all the products at participating Target stores and at Target.com. Certain products will only be available in-store, so don’t miss the baby aisle on your next Target run.
Now you can get an even bigger benefit from creating a baby registry at buybuy BABY. Not only can you register for everything you’ll need as a new parent, but you can also score a free annual membership for Shipt’s same-day delivery service.
New parents have enough to do—without worrying about toting their new tot all over town to pick up groceries, diapers, and everything else a growing family needs. Shipt eliminates the need to add these errands to your oh-so-busy day.
photo: Courtesy of Shipt
The one-year membership is a $99 value and is a limited-time offer, courtesy of Shipt and Bed Bath & Beyond. To qualify for the free membership customers need to sign up with Bed Bath & Beyond or buybuy BABY and wait for their friends and fam to purchase at least $75 of merch.
After your nearest and dearest buys a minimum of $75, you’ll get an email with a special code for your free Shipt membership. Rina Hurst, Chief Business Officer at Shipt, said in a press release, “We’ve heard time and time again from our customers about how Shipt simplifies their lives while they’re planning for milestone events.”
Hurst continued, “With this new perk for Bed Bath & Beyond and buybuy BABY registrants, it’s easy to take advantage of the convenience of same-day delivery when preparing for a wedding or welcoming a new little one—so you can spend time on the moments that matter most.”
To start your buybuy BABY registry, visit the brand’s website here!
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.
Your first few months with a newborn is a special but overwhelming time with you and your baby adjusting to your new lives. Even if you received everything from your baby registry, stocked up on health and safety items and know which resources to contact for support, these are the fourth-trimester necessities you’ll need to survive and thrive during those sleepless nights and amazing days.
From baby's hospital bracelet to their first swaddling blanket, new parents will start amassing keepsakes as soon as baby is born. Make sure these precious memories don't wind up in a shoebox that will get crushed or lost. A keepsake box is the perfect solution. Have your baby's box engraved and get one large enough to keep adding to as your little one gets bigger and bigger.
New moms need to stay hydrated, especially if you're nursing, so this is one of the fourth-trimester necessities you won't want to miss. But getting in all that water is tough when you have your hands full. Larger water bottles, like the 46-ounce YETI Rambler, can help, since you won't need to make as many repeat trips to the kitchen. It's well insulated and can keep your water cold from sunup to sundown. It also has a chug cap so you can down a lot of water quickly in those rare moments baby lets you have use of your hands.
New parents are always told to sleep when the baby sleeps. Easier said than done. A good quality sleep mask blocks out light to get you much-needed naptime, and a cozy blanket is your new best friend. This Kailu mask is made out of light-blocking black mulberry silk that is soft and easy on sensitive skin. It comes with a portable silk throw perfect for catching naps on the sofa or snuggling with baby.
Noise-reducing earplugs, like this pair from Loop, blocks some noise to help you relax and sleep but still hear what's going on while someone else cares for baby. Paranoid parents will appreciate that these fourth-trimester necessity lets some sounds through.
Refillable Pocket Hand Sanitizer Five-Pack from Noshinku
Even though you lived through a pandemic, having a baby means using more hand sanitizer than ever before. Noshinku is a great choice for anyone with a newborn since it's made from gentle, organic ingredients and comes in a variety of pleasing scents like lavender and citrus.
Between lack of sleep and lack of time to cook healthful meals or exercise, parental health and well-being can go downhill quickly. A smart watch can give new parents the information they need to be the best they can be for their little one. The Garmin Vivosport has a traditional face that works with any outfit. Plus, it has the hidden capability to track how much shut-eye you get, your activity level, heart rate and even stress level.
New parents often find themselves in a conundrum: They are exhausted, so they want a caffeine boost. Yet they rarely have time to wait for an entire pot of coffee to brew. The solution is a single-serve coffee maker that brews a cup of Joe quickly so you can drink it before the baby needs you. It's small enough to fit on almost any countertop.
If tea is more your speed, use an electric kettle to heat water quickly to the perfect temperature. This kettle has pre-set temperatures for different types of teas. Best of all, its keep-warm feature means that if the baby wakes up just as you were ready to enjoy your hot beverage, this kettle will keep your water warm until you're ready.
Keeping phones charged can be a challenge under the best of circumstances. Having a newborn only makes this harder. The solution is a portable battery that can be used around the house or thrown in a diaper bag. To make sure you always have enough juice when you need it, get a charger that is compact but powerful. This one is thin, light and comes with a kickstand to make viewing comfortable while charging.
New parents may find themselves pinned under their adorable sleeping baby. The Kindle Paperwhite is the perfect solution for any new parent who likes to read and needs to be able to hold a book with one hand with the lights off. This ultra-thin, super light device can download the latest bestseller or your favorite magazine with a couple of taps. It's small enough to stash in a diaper bag without adding additional weight so it's a great item to bring on-the-go for those times your baby falls asleep in the stroller or the car.
File this under fourth-trimester necessities you'll love for years to come. Wireless earbuds are key since there are no cords for babies to pull on or get tangled. These have fast-charge capabilities, meaning users get an hour of use in just 10 minutes of charging. This is perfect for sleep-deprived parents who can't remember what day it is, let alone that they need to charge their earbuds. They also mold to your ears so they will be comfortable and less likely to fall out.
The baby industry is constantly evolving, and it’s because there are some amazing women at the helm. From vegan accessories and revolutionary feeding gear, to back-saving baby carriers, mom inventors are changing the face of what it means to manage the newborn and infant stage. Keep scrolling to see our favorite baby gear products that will have you saying, “oh baby!”
Skin-to-Skin Bonding: Bonsie
Mom of two and former clinical social worker, Anna Turcotte knows the benefits of skin-to-skin contact between babies and caregivers. With her experience, she set out to create babywear that encouraged skin-to-skin contact but also kept babies comfortable. Bonsie, a combination of "bonding" and "onesie" was born! Each onesie is made with double-layered flaps connected by an ultra-soft hook and loop fastener. Once the two flaps are open, baby's chest and belly are fully exposed for skin-to-skin connection. Parents can shop in sizes ranging from newborn to 9 months in comfy bamboo and cotton blends.
Safe Sleeping: Swaddle Sleeves by Two Baby Bears Co.
Umma Shekhani and her daughter loved swaddles, but when it came time to transition out of the original style, they weren't having much luck. All the options kept her too warm or offered just a little too much freedom. In a moment of desperation, Umma sketched and sewed the first version of Swaddle Sleeves, gently weighted sleeves that offer comfort. Since then, Swaddles Sleeves has expanded to even more products that include swaddle pods, sleep sacks, and footie pajamas. Products come with double zippers for quick changes and non-weighted "Mitten Sleeves" that can be worn when weighted sleeves aren't needed.
Healthynest: EWG-Verified Diapers, Cleaning, Skincare and More
Tonje Thilesen
Founded in the Fall of 2020 by Shazi Visram (she’s also the founder of Happy Family Organics and mom to a 10-year-old son and five-year-old daughter), Healthynest is the first brain-forward brand for expectant and new parents to navigate their baby’s developmental health. What does that mean exactly? To start, Healthynest pairs products with science-backed enrichment activities to help parents navigate raising kids starting from day one. So while you place an order for the first-ever EWG-Verified diaper, EWG-Verified cleaning system and EWG-Verified Skincare system, you can also learn how to introduce texture to babies or discover if your tap water is safe to drink thanks to Healthynest’s tutorials and videos.
As a mom of two, Sara Parant was frustrated with all the buttons, zippers and snaps that came on infant clothes. Realizing tons of other parents felt the same way, she set out to design a no-snap onesie that would change the way we dress and change babies. Peasy Co. grew and developed a full line of sustainable, progressive infant basics. The company provides comfort for babes and super quick diaper changes, using hypoallergenic, quick-trying, anti-microbial and breathable fabric.
Amber Thibaut grew up as the daughter of a Maui waterman, which connected her strongly to the island culture. Late one night while nursing her son, she realized the blanket she reached for held no special meaning or connection to Hawaii, which embodied arts, tradition and community. That night, Coco Moon was born. Now, Thibaut's brand specializes in buttery-soft baby goods that are all inspired by memories of a childhood in Hawaii. Parents can shop island-inspired quilts, security and throw blankets, swaddles and clothing with whimsical prints and the softest materials.
Taeler Horak was a first time mom and she already despised trying to snap baby clothes in the middle of the night. Armed with her great grandmother's sewing machine, she set out to make the first ankle to ankle zippered baby romper. When local moms began asking for custom orders, Horak knew she was on to something. After creating her own website, rebranding and a soft launch on Facebook, Zipease, LLC was born. The female-owned and run business now employs four more women who make the company's entire inventory in house.
After having her second child and returning to work, Krystal Nicole Duhaney struggled with her milk supply like many moms. As a Registered Nurse and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant she knew there were not enough resources for breastfeeding mothers and wanted to come up with a solution for low milk supply. Using her medical background, Duhaney came up with a milk-making cookie recipe and in November of 2015, Milky Mama was born! Today, Milky Mama's product line includes Lactation Cookies, Brownies, Emergency Brownies, Tropical Iced Tea, Lactation LeMOOnade, Lactation Smoothie Mix, and Herbal Supplements. In addition to offering products, the company also facilitates weekly Facebook chats and a lactation support group so women can come alongside each other in support.
Towards the end of her maternity leave, Becca Davidson's mom offered to watch her daughter once a week. Her mom was really looking forward to spending some quality time with her new granddaughter, but soon realized that because of some arthritis in her thumb, she wasn't able to press the red button hard enough to release the buckle on the carseat. After realizing that a federal regulation required 9 pounds of pressure to release the button for safety reasons, Davidson and her mom set out find a solution. As an Occupational Therapist, Davidson's mother created a tool using splint material, which used leverage to reduce the force needed to unbuckle, and UnbuckleMe was born!. The duo refined the design, ran a successful Kickstarter campaign, attended dozens of events, acquired patents and continues to spread awareness.
Susan Bortone's two kids were never good sleepers. They loved to snuggle and always wanted a soft toy to hold but Bortone never wanted to leave an unsafe toy in the crib, which meant they would wake often looking for their lovey. After trying every sleep trick in the book, she started sketching and making a protoype that combined the security of a sleep sack and a safe toy all in one. When her daughter tried it for the first time, shel slept through the night! Now, Snuggy Buddy is in production and taking pre-orders for the breathable sleep snack made from muslin with a weighted butterfly with soft plush wings stitched at chest level. In addition to providing a safe sleep experience, Snuggy Buddy is also partnering with a charity, donating fabric for them to make blankets for babies in need.
Beth Fynbo was tired of the "toddler toss," when littles keep throwing things on the floor or putting their mouth on germy restaurant tables. In response, she created the Busy Baby Mat, a food-grade silicone placemat that firmly sticks on just about any surface including shopping cart handles, floors and tables. The innovative silicone tethers attach to toys to keep them in arms reach and the placemat is perfect for eating, and even drawing on!
Bekah Marsden didn't love when her baby’s bibs or changing mats got stained and gross. As a mom, she set out to create a product that would stand the test of time and look stylish while doing it. That's when she came up with vegan leather bibs and changing mats for her site, Bek & Jet. The amazingly soft products can be easily wiped down after each use––no more stains!
Mom of three Dahlia Rizk was sick and tired of wrestling her kids in and out of coats when it came time to getting into the car seat. She imagined a time when zippers weren't in the middle of coats and then instant excitement came! Rizk applied for a patent and some time later, the world’s first and only car seat-safe winter coat was born. Her genius design means that car seat straps and harnessed go under the coats and not on top, and are crash tested. They passed the first time around! Buckle Me Baby Coats are evaluated by CPSTs, first responders, and EMTs too but her "biggest experts are the kids who love not having coats forced off and on them all the time and parents who love having one less thing to worry about!"
While on a family vacation, Carla Schneider’s infant son could not be consoled. When his pacifer wouldn't stay in his mouth, the mom grabbed the hotel sewing kit and sewed her son’s favorite stuffed toy to a pacifier. Instantly he was comforted, and this was the start of WubbaNub. Twenty years later Schneider still owns and operates the brand while remaining true to her original mission: "Comforting and soothing one baby at a time while raising funds and awareness surrounding illnesses that afflict newborns."
Tammy Rant and Sara Azadi created TushBaby out of complete necessity. Back and hip pain led them to question: was there a better way to carry their kids? When traditional carriers didn't work, the idea to create a strapless baby carrier was born. After pitching their idea on Shark Tank, Tushbaby has taken off, finding a market in the U.S., Europe and Asia. The memory-lined seat comes with extra storage for essentials, and is perfect for any caregivers, from mom and dad to grandparents!
Lisa Sutherland and Kiyah Duffy are moms with seven kids between them. Both women have Ph.D.’s in nutrition and a shared passion for food, creativity and an interest in helping little ones learn to feed themselves. They knew what parents could do to help kids succeed at mealtime and learn to love eating healthy foods but didn't see the right tools to help them do that. Kizingo spoons work with the way young children hold and use utensils, making it easier for them to bring the food from their plate to their mouth! Why is this important? Kids who can feed themselves are less likely to overeat and less likely to become picky eaters because they retain control over mealtime.
When Natalie Riley's daughter was young and riding in a stroller, inevitably, she would demand to be carried. Natalie always ended up carrying her daughter in one arm and pushing the empty set of wheels with the other. The same goes for hiking—Natalie found herself carrying her daughter in her arms with an empty baby transporter on her back. She needed a tiny baby carrier that she could carry in her pocket or use as a purse while her daughter is walking, and so Tady—a baby carrier that can support up to 60 lbs and easily converts into a diaper bag—was born.
Give your babe a leg up in the sleep department with Bumbershoots by Nana. These oh-so-soft sleep sacks are designed and hand sewn by Judy Carr (aka Nana), a grandmother who works out of her Maryland studio using patterns she has made and refined over time. Bumbershoots by Nana was born when her grandson was transitioning out of a swaddle and into a sleep sack. Judy noticed that even more expensive sacks seemed cheaply made and didn't wear well. In part due to her grandmotherly love, and in part due to her entrepreneurial spirit, Judy decided to fix that problem—her high-quality, reverse-lined sleep sacks are functional (they hold up extremely well to machine washes and everyday use) and fun (check out their designs here). Fun fact: Bumbershoots by Nana stocks multiples in each size, but is also able to produce 30 or so a week without assistance.
Lizzy Ellingson co-founded Blueprint Registry after experiencing her own frustrations with traditional wedding registries. She wanted a more fun, visual process—and it turns out she wasn't the only one. After having her first baby, she discovered that the baby registry world had the same problems and so she expanded Blueprint's platform into a baby registry with the goal of helping to educate new moms along the way. New parents can not only rest easy knowing Blueprint has the lowest credit card processing fee in the industry, but they can also shop from a visual blueprint of their nursery and add gifts from any retailer to their registry to fit their needs.
Julie Wilson and Amy Livingston founded Cheeky Chompers while on maternity leave after their first babies were born. They noticed a gap in the market for a teether that attached to a baby and that’s when the innovative Neckerchew was born! What’s a Neckerchew? It’s a highly absorbent, reversible cotton dribble bib with a silicone teether integrated right into the design. After the success of the Neckerchew, they went on to invent the Comfortchew, Chewy the attachable sensory hippo teether, the Cheeky Blanket, the organic MultiMuslin (it’s a nursing cover, stroller cover, teether, burp cloth, swaddle and blanket all in one) and the Muslin Comforter. These two mamas and their innovative thinking are streamlining the world of baby gear.
When TWELVElittle baby bags came on the scene, new moms everywhere sighed with relief. Stylish, practical (read: wipeable) diaper bags and accessories that feel designer-worthy without the outrageous price tag. Mom and designer Julia Min founded TWELVElittle to simplify and elevate new mom style. And she's succeeded! In addition to diaper bags and backpacks that you'll be toting around long after they are potty-trained, they also make backpacks for kids, smaller bags for storage (we love this striped bag trio) and the popular 12 LITTLE WONDERS dangles, inspired by the Chinese zodiac and made to customize any bag.
For any mom who has ever pumped for their nursing babes, you know how precious every drop can be. When her son Henry was born in 2008, Helen Anderson was working as an ER nurse and still breastfeeding. So she came up with a business, Milkies, and a product to help save time and make sure not a drop of the liquid gold was lost: Milk-Saver. The Milk-Saver collects the milk that leaks in between nursing or pumping (you know what we mean).
We’re pretty sure that Ayesha Curry doesn’t sleep. Not only is she a mother of two beautiful kiddos and wife of Golden State all-star Stephen Curry, but she also’s a cookbook author, hosts her own show on the Food Network, Ayesha’s Homemade, and is the co-founder of the recently launched Cheeky Baby. Partnered with Cheeky Kids, this line of reusable, high-quality plastic and silicone dinnerware products are designed just with little ones in mind. They help foster independence at meal-time with trainer and sippy cups, feeding spoons, traditional baby cutlery, and even a line of self-feeding cutlery; non-slip bowls and more, all with whimsical-but-chic patterns and animal characters. And if you need one more reason to love this woman, for every Cheeky Baby item purchased, a meal will be donated to a child in need through No Kid Hungry.
Catherine Merritt has been a long-time supporter of moms: she’s the genius behind MUMZY, the first and only crowdfunding platform for moms. Catherine sold MUMZY last year and is on to her newest venture, Finnbin. Co-founded with Shawn Bercuson (entrepreneur and superdad), Finnbin brings the Finnish tradition to the U.S. for the first time ever. What is a Finnbin? It’s a cardboard box full of newborn items, including bibs, bedding, clothing, a swaddle, bath essentials and more. The best part? The box can actually be used as baby’s first bed. Don’t believe us? The Finns have been doing this for more than 80 years! We love these self-contained boxes that pair down the clutter and focus on what you need for your new arrival, so you can focus on baby! “To play a role in providing the peace of mind to new parents is such an incredible feeling as an entrepreneur and a fellow mom,” says Catherine.
Maya Shalev, founder of Grabease is a problem solver. As a busy lawyer, mediator and mother of three, she experienced all of the typical frustrations of parenting, including watching her little one repeatedly not be able to hold on to the spoon when trying to self-feed. So, she invented a better product: grabease utensils ($14.95), available on Amazon. These adorable fork and spoon sets are squat enough that tiny hands can grasp and control with ease, plus they are safer than regular "toddler" flatware: the handle is ergonomically designed and there's a choke barrier. It comes in several colors (including dark gray, teal, orange and white), and you can even grab a handy carrying pouch that tucks into your diaper bag or purse. The best part? It helps them develop motor skills right before your eyes. BPA free. Grabease also recently launched a 2 in 1 silicone spoon + teether, a double-sided toothbrush that helps helps with baby and toddler oral care and an all-over bib that helps to make the dinner mess less stressful.
You love all the notes and stick-figure drawings, but it doesn’t take long for paper to take over your house. That’s why moms Karla “neatnick” the Losen and Jennifer organization queen” McAllister-Nevins got together and invented The Keepsake Box by Savor, designed to help you keep treasures and cull the chaos. There are two versions: The Library: Baby Keepsake Box and The Library: School Years Keepsake Box. Each box includes a handcrafted, book cloth case; pre-categorized labels; 9 drawers for tiny things and 8 vertical files (baby version) or 16 vertical files (school years); a birthday survey for yearly highlights and more. It’s like scrapbooking without the scrapbooking. Everything is contained, sleek and easy to browse through so you can walk down memory lane anytime. As an added bonus, they look cute on the shelf. Stop shoving those things in a bin and start organizing your treasures! Prices start at $69.95.
Who knew a tiny baby would need so much stuff? We did! So here it is, our definitive list of everything you could possibly need when your baby arrives. We’ve grouped items into categories and divided them into must-haves and nice-to-haves so you can make smarter choices about exactly what to add to your baby registry. From baby sleep needs and diaper essentials to products just for mom, you’ll find it all here.
Planning your baby’s nursery is exciting but can be overwhelming. buybuy BABY is excited to launch a 3D Nursery Design Tool to help make it easier for new and expectant parents to design and build the nursery of their dreams. The digital tool is the latest innovation to be added to the retailer’s Design Squad suite of nursery design services powered by the design team at Decorist, an online interior design company.
The brand’s continued expansion of digital-first shopping experiences provides ew and expectant Millennial and Gen Z parents with a wide range of online solutions to design and shop for all their nursery needs.
The 3D Nursery Design Tool takes the stress out of designing the nursery and allows customers to create a custom look in real-time. You will have the ability to swap furniture and decor such as cribs, dressers, gliders, bedding, rugs, paint color, and even wallpaper in and out of a room of their choice to create a personalized space. There will also be 15 pre-styled designer-curated nurseries to choose from if you prefer not to start the design process from an empty room. Customers will be able to add items in the room directly to their cart or registry and have the option to save their designs or share via email.
“We know how important creating the perfect nursery is to our customers and are excited to expand our Design Squad services to make it easier and even more inspiring for parents to bring their nursery vision to life,” said Patty Wu, Senior Vice President and General Manager of buybuy BABY. “By giving parents the opportunity to visualize their nursery before investing, with the ability to compare décor options side-by-side, the 3D Nursery Design Tool takes the stress out of the design process. Our new fast, safe, and convenient Store Pickup contactless Curbside Pickup and Same Day Delivery services mean we can have everything you need to create the nursery of your dreams in just a couple of hours. This allows parents to have more time to enjoy their new space with their baby.”
The Design Squad suite of services also include:
Style Quiz: Don’t know your style? Design Squad’s fun and quick Baby Style Quiz can help customers determine the look that is right for them with just five easy questions.
Shoppable Nursery Ideas | For those customers wanting a quick and easy way to shop stylish nursery looks, this pre-designed collection of over 35 gorgeous nurseries in every style, from rustic farmhouse to boho and everywhere in between, and at every price point, is ready to shop or add to a customer’s registry.
Ask a Designer: For parents who need quick design help, such as finding an affordable crib or picking the right paint color, Design Squad’s free designer Q&A, powered by professional interior designers, is perfect for bite-sized help and recommendations.
Custom Nursery Design: Those wanting thorough professional design help can use Design Squad’s Room Design service to get a custom room designed online by a professional interior designer (including a detailed floor plan and clickable shopping list) for $199.
Design Squad Blog: For those shopping for the perfect crib, looking for nursery ideas, or in need of styling inspiration, the Design Squad blog has the best tips, tricks, and inspiration for designing a stunning nursery, straight from Decorist’s team of interior design experts.
buybuy BABY offers various tools, services, and baby registry perks that customers can utilize, including Buy-Online-Pickup-In-Store (BOPIS), Curbside Pickup, Same Day Delivery, Price Match Promise, Personalized Gifts, and Free Registry Goody Bag (in-store).