Whether you’re feeling disconnected from your mom tribe or you just need a new distraction now that you finished Bridgerton, these podcasts can help. Tune in to hear from a diverse group of LA moms, covering everything from school admissions and your kids’ mental health to pop culture and reality TV. Read on to find your next download.
Sisters Paulina and Bricia Lopez bring sincerity, humor and compassion to their Super Mamas podcast (and accompanying blog). As they explain in their description, the hourlong podcast is "a judgment-free space where new, expecting and experienced mothers can come together to learn from one another, be inspired by each other and bond over their similar upbringings and cultural background." In one of the latest episodes, Paulina opens up about her family's battle with Covid, and shares how friends, families and followers all helped them fight and recover from the virus.
And for any LA foodies out there, it's worth noting that the sisters other venture is the family-run Guelaguetza, which now sells its famous mole and signature Michelada mix online.
Earlier this year, actress Tika Sumpter and Thai Randolph, EVP and GM of Kevin Hart's Laugh Out Loud network, partnered up to launch The Suga, which they call "a brown mama's guide to the sweet life." Their goal is to inform and inspire black and brown moms (and moms-to-be) with their weekly podcast and Sugaberry website and lifestyle brand. So far The Suga has touched on a range of topics, from home decor and personal style, to orgasms and infertility. Tune in for conversations with experts, including Jungalow founder Juntina Blakeney, doula and holistic wellness maven Latham Thomas and more.
Remember LC's pal from The Hills, Whitney Port? The LA native reality TV vet is a now a "safer-at-home" mom (thanks to the city's latest orders). She brings the same genuineness she displayed on The Hills to her podcast, and is often joined by her husband Timmy. Recent episodes have focused on Port's decision to send her son to a Montessori school, setting boundaries on social media and empowering women to be ambitious (in a conversation with Meena Harris, no less!).
As the name suggests, this podcast from actress and comedian Heather Brooker covers all things parenting and entertainment, or from "red carpets to diaper rash," per Brooker's description. Through her interviews with industry insiders, she offers practical tips for writers and actors, along with advice (and just plain commiseration) on juggling work and mom life. Added bonus? Brooker and her husband regularly share their TV show recommendations for all your binge viewing needs.
Since 2014, podcast vet Ellie Knaus has been delivering must-hear advice for moms, through her conversations with parenting experts, best-selling authors and real-life moms across the country. Everything from managing with children's anxiety and to solo parenting is on the table, so be prepared for lively conversation every week.
If you are missing life in the office where you get to recap your favorite reality television shows, then meet your new water-cooler pal, Kate Casey. Her podcast is the ultimate indulgence, and a welcome break from, well, reality, for fans of the Real Housewives franchise, The Bachelor and TheBachelorette and more. With her reality TV expertise, it's hard to believe that Casey is a mom of five. Once you get addicted to her podcast, check out her Instagram for a peek at her real life at home.
Baby shower registries aren’t limited to big box stores these days. In fact, there are many websites where you can register for anything that’s on the internet. So what are the most useful and appreciated baby gifts that you could and should register for? We’ve done our research and come up with 19 ideas that you will actually use and appreciate having after your baby’s arrival.
1. Pregnancy pillow. It’s one of those items you may have felt frivolous buying for yourself, but trust us, it’s worth every extra hour of sleep you’ll recieve.
2. Gift certificates for a local baby store. Sometimes doing the shopping yourself is the fun part: browsing through a store and marveling at the teeny tiny booties, adorable newborn outfits, and sweet nursery accents.
3. House cleaning service (before or after baby comes). Not only will you suddenly feel the need for a pristine house with a newborn around, but also, you’ll be sleep-deprived and short on time.
4. Contribution to a doula service. If you are dreaming of a doula birth, but can’t afford it, this is one way to get the birth you really want.
5. Hiring a photographer for baby pictures. This is a gift you’ll cherish forever.
6. Personalized new mom note cards. When you meet the first nice mom at mom and baby yoga, you’ll thank us for making it easy to keep in touch. Swapping numbers in your phones isn’t always so easy when you’re running off with a hungry newborn.
7. Paying for someone to give a CPR and infant first aid class. You’ll rest easier knowing you have these skills just in case.
8. Prenatal or postnatal massage. Feel free to be specific about the spa and/or masseuse you prefer as well. You deserve it.
9. Gift certificate for a pedicure. Your feet could use the extra massage right now, and you can’t see your own toes for a DIY pedicure anyway.
10. Date night certificate. Feel like you’ll never leave the house after baby? If you’ve got a free dinner for two and babysitting in the books before she arrives, you’ll have extra motivation.
11. Shower saver kit. This tongue-in-cheek gift gives a nod to the fact that finding time for a shower after baby isn’t always easy, but this clever gift grouping will make it doable: a clear plastic shower curtain, bath accessories for mom, and a bouncy seat for baby.
12. Cloth diaper service or a supply of disposable diapers. If there’s one thing you know your baby will use, it’s diapers!
13. Emergency diaper kit to leave in the car. This clever and ever-useful wet bag should include diapers, wipes, plastic baggies, and a clean change of clothes.
14. Meals for a month. Organize a meal train of family and friends to provide simple dinners several days a week for a month.
16. Favorite children’s books. Start building your baby’s library from day one. Books will be treasured forever.
17. Uh-oh kit. Here’s an easy way to ensure you’re stocked with the necessary first aid supplies including a thermometer, gas tablets, teething tablets, baby pain reliever, nail clippers, diaper rash cream, etc.
18. Handmade hats or blankets. If you’ve got relatives or friends that knit, hint that handmade is appreciated.
19. Nursing pillow. If you overlooked this on your registry—don’t. Not only is it good for breastfeeding, bottle-feeding moms find comfort in it as well, and these pillows can be a great spot to prop your baby.
If you’re planning your baby registry or stocking up before the big day, focus your to-buy list on these essentials that will get you through those first weeks. High chairs, toys and even the crib can wait. This is what you’ll really need when baby arrives.
Diaper Changing Pad
Skip Hop
A changing table is handy if you have the room, but for outings and travel, a portable diaper changing pad is all you'll need. And as your child gets older, you may prefer the simplicity of changing them on the floor, couch or bed. This one, from Skip Hop, has a wipe-clean, zip-off changing pad and roomy pockets for diapers, wipes, bum cream and hand sanitizer. It also features a zippered front pocket for your phone, keys and wallet. Best of all, it folds up into a sleek clutch you can wear on your wrist, clip to your stroller or toss in a diaper bag.
We love: the Pronto Signature Changing Station, available at skiphop.com.
Infant Hat
MORI
Hats on babies are not only adorable, they're necessary in certain conditions. A hat will keep baby warm and comfortable in cooler temps and block the sun from their sensitive scalp. As a general rule, put a hat on your baby if you feel the weather is cold. And if your baby looks or feels flushed or appears uncomfortable while wearing a hat, take it off.
Keep track of baby's feeding, sleep and diaper schedule, as well as developmental milestones, immunizations and illnesses, with one of the many awesome apps out there. You'll be able to pick up patterns to help you establish a baby routine that maximizes comfort (yours and baby's), and you can more easily answer any of your pediatrician's questions.
You can start reading to babies the day they're born, and you should! Babies love your voice and find it soothing, and bonding with your babe over a book is a great way for you to get some relaxation amid the stressful, sleepless early days of motherhood. Studies show that regularly reading to your baby builds language comprehension and reading skills too. So visit your library for board books; stock your shelves with classics; or sign up for Literati's baby book club and have age-appropriate books sent to your door.
Tiny babies can make big messes. And when you're a new mom, you want your cleaning products to be safe and toxin-free, but you also want them to be super effective. Truce cleaning products have you covered. We especially love the peppermint-scented all-purpose cleaner, which cuts grease, leaves a streak-free finish and contains only five ingredients (water, isopropyl alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, organic castile soap and essential oils).
We love: Truce cleaning products, available at truceclean.com.
Diapers
Abby & Finn
A stockpile of diapers and wipes is essential for any new parent. Take the guesswork out of when to reorderwith a diaper subscription service that brings the goods to you. Perks of ABBY&FINN include a convenient "set it and forget it" approach, mix and match with multiple sizes and designs in the same box, and the ability to select from a range of frequencies. All of their diapers are eco-friendly and toxin-free, and are comparable in price to Pampers subscribe and save.
Wraps are a helpful carrier option in the early months as the fabric keeps babies close and is soft on their skin. Some look tricky to fasten, but if you ask a sales associate or watch a YouTube video, you'll catch on quicker than you think. You can also pick a style (like this one) that makes it as easy as putting on a t-shirt.
We Love: Baby K'tan PRINT baby carrier, available at babyktan.com, $60.
Swaddle Blankets
aden anais
Loose blankets are a safety hazard for the first year of baby's life, but swaddling blankets are a life-saver. Wrap baby like a burrito to keep restless arms and legs from jolting them awake. These are also great as stroller covers, nursing covers, park blankets, and more.
Top priority: the car seat. You'll need one installed in your car before you leave the hospital with your newborn, so this is one purchase that can't wait. Look for one with a high safety rating. If you plan to buy a stroller from a different brand, check that there's an adaptor for your brand of car seat.
Diaper changes can leave sensitive baby bums irritated, and rashes from wet diapers, certain soaps or baby wipes, or even food intolerances are common. Keep a diaper cream like Triple Paste (a mom favorite!) at the ready to smooth on at the first signs of redness, and you can stop discomfort in its tracks. This ointment is fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and thick to create a protective barrier on baby's skin. Buy a set of smaller tubes so you can keep one in your diaper bag, another at your changing station and a third at the grandparents' house.
We love: Triple Paste, available at amazon.com, $30 for a 3-pack of 2 oz. tubes.
Bassinet
Chicco
With multiple nightly wakeup calls, you'll want to keep baby within reach. A bassinet by your bedside keeps baby close enough for you to soothe them quickly, and to peer over to watch them sleep.
Give your arms a rest during breastfeeding or bottle-feeding with a fit-to-your-body pillow. In later months, baby can use it to practice tummy time and sitting up.
Your newborn doesn't need a fancy wardrobe at first, as newborns spend most of their time sleeping or snuggling at home. An arsenal of onesies makes dressing your baby quick and easy, and soft cotton in solid colors will match your other baby clothes.
We Love: Primary Organic Babysuit 5-Pack, available at primary.com, $45.
Infant Tub
Boon
A tub that's designed for newborns makes bathing baby easier in those early months. Choose one that converts to a toddler tub to get maximum use out of it.
We Love: Boon Naked 2-Position Collapsible Baby Bathtub, available at amazon.com, $70.
Bibs
Bumkins
Bibs aren't just for babies who eat solids. They're handy for bottle-feeding and catching spit-up and drool. Buy them in bulk. You'll be swapping and washing them often!
We Love: Bumkins Super, available at target.com, $13.
Diaper Bag
7 a.m. Enfant
Getting out of the house with your baby is a must in the first weeks, not just for your sanity, but also for the little one's doctor's appointments. Arm yourself will a well-organized diaper bag so you're prepared with everything from a fresh onesie to a burp cloth and warm blanket.
We Love: 7 a.m. Enfant Soho Diaper Bag, available at 7amenfant.com, $85.
Baby Monitor
Nanit
Video is key for checking in on your baby without disturbing them. Some monitors, like this one, work with an app so you can monitor from your phone when you're away from home. Even grandparents can tune in to watch baby sleep.
We Love: Nanit Pro Camera, available at nanit.com, $299+.
Slow-Flow Baby Bottles
LUX
Whether you're feeding your baby formula or pumped milk, look for bottles that mimic the shape of the breast and slow down the flow of liquid to reduce colic, spitting up, burping and gas.
Middle-of-the-night feedings and diaper changes go a lot smoother with a soft light that doesn't wake up baby or your partner. Better yet, choose an illuminated gadget that doubles as a sound machine. The repetitive sounds of white (static) or pink (rainfall) noise can help soothe your newborn throughout the night.
Swaddling from scratch isn't for every parent (especially in the middle of the night), and some infants can wiggle out of a swaddle blanket like a mini Houdini. These sacks make it easy on both of you with simple zippers and Velcro. Baby will feel snug, and you'll feel like a superstar swaddler!
We Love: HALO SleepSack Swaddle, available at halosleep.com, $25.
Natural Pacifier
Natursutten
When your baby is crying and you've tried everything from shushing and milk or formula to a diaper change, a pacifier gives baby some comfort. Sticking to orthodontic designs may protect your baby's future teeth, and a one-piece design isn't only safer but also easier to clean.
We Love: Natursutten Orthodontic Rubber Pacifier, available at amazon.com, $12.
Are you getting ready to celebrate a new baby in your family or friend-circle? With so many baby gift options available, choosing the perfect one can be daunting. Hello Bello has the unique but practical gifts that are perfect for the new moms and dads in your life.
Hello Bello is there to help parents navigate life’s messiest, stinkiest most unmissable joy – parenthood.
Break in Case of Baby Kit ($29.98): This kit includes Hello Bello’s size 1 diapers (35ct), plant-based baby wipes (60ct), 10oz. Shampoo, 10oz. Bubble Bath, 8.5oz Body Lotion and 4oz. diaper rash cream.
Diaper Cake ($34.97): It’s a centerpiece and a gift. The Diaper Cake features Hello Bello’s super-soft diapers in the classic ABC’s design with other surprise baby essentials tucked inside. Includes 10 ct. plant-based baby wipes, 2oz. shampoo + body wash, 2oz. bubble bath, and three fun signs to personalize the cake (“It’s a Boy!”, “It’s a Girl!”, “It’s a Baby!”).
The dreaded flight with kids—over-tired, fussy, hungry, thirsty, bored, bathroom, ears hurting, crying, tantrums, bathroom again, kicking the seat in front, “are we there yet”, too hot, too cold, bathroom yet again—can be a recipe for meltdowns galore. Then just when you are about to land, your kid finally falls asleep and refuses to walk… luggage, child, and headache in tow. The thought actually makes my stomach turn. I think it’s safe to say that most of us parents have been there. After countless global travel with our four young children (including relocating to three different countries and four states), it’s safe to say that our family has been through many ridiculous scenarios and learned how to prepare like a pro.
While many of you have already been privileged enough to dig your heels in the sand for the Summer holiday, some are still inching closer to that exciting last day of school. Either way, vacation plans are likely in full throttle and weather updates on close standby. Thankfully, throughout most of my mistakes, I have survived and thrived… so I’m happy to share my top strategies to surviving the prep, flight, and jet lag.
1. Don’t tire over the attire
Packing for the family can be exhausting and overwhelming. It’s the “sit and stare” approach—too many weather variables, too many different types of dress required, no washing machine, and making sure to have enough (but not too much) that will get you blankly staring for a good half hour until any progress happens. This technique will certainly get you nowhere fast, without much time to finish. Here’s my plan instead:
Check the weather forecast.
Know your itinerary and duration of trip.
Pack the pyjamas first (easiest way to get started), and consider reusability to minimize over-packing.
Plan kids’ outfits according to the number of days and necessity. Consider reusability in pants and sweaters. * Bring a couple of “fancy” outfits in case.
Make sure that you have enough total outfits to mix-and-match for the duration of the trip. When that’s settled, add one or two more easy extras in case of unexpected spillage.
Organize the stacks of clothes for easy accessibility.
Make sure to bring a few garbage bags to make laundry collection organized and simple.
Shower caps are great for covering the bottom of shoes for packing.
Use zip-lock bags to contain any toiletries for extra protection, and bring extra for the return trip.
2. Emergency prep
Expect the unexpected. Be prepared and bring most of these items in your carry-on luggage.
Thermometer
Pain Reliever/Fever Reducer (for adults and flavored for children)
Plasters/Band-Aids
Antiseptic cream
Antihistamine in case of unexpected allergy
Tissues
Saline Spray
Daily Vitamins (optional)
Eye/Ear Drops for kids (optional)
Diaper Cream (not just for diaper rash, but also works for scrapes and eczema)
Emergency tooth fairy gift (optional – depending on age and tradition)
Tampons and sanitary napkins
Emergency outfit change for the kids (including socks and underwear) in case of accidental spillage/leakage of any kind.
3. Smart snack
Please keep in mind that what you feed your kids is what you will get out of them. Sugary, artificially flavored, and food coloring-soaked foods may result in a hyper child who crashes with a nasty tantrum. Snacks can be fun AND healthy-ish enough for a flight.
Baby cereal flavoured puffs (kids of all ages love to munch on these).
Mini rice-cakes for snacking.
Freeze-dried or regular dried fruit.
Real fruit gummies (special treat during take-off or extreme moment, but beware as too many packs may induce a hyper child with loose stool).
Make sure to buy some bottled water after passing the security line, before the flight, to avoid a sudden thirst emergency before take-off.
Special Treat: one or two non-healthy treats (lollipop, candy) to be reserved for hurricane-grade tantrum, head-spinning moments.
Granola or protein bars for an energy boost.
Applesauce or fruit/veggie squeeze packs.
Fresh fruit with careful packing to avoid unintended squishing or rotting.
Depending on the duration of your flight, feel free to pack any additional refrigerated snacks in a lunch sack with ice pack.
4. Entertainment tools
Make sure to find out if your flight offers individual monitors. This makes a BIG difference in entertainment planning.
If the flight does not have a monitor, bring your own and make sure it’s charged (don’t forget to bring the charger). Feel free to download a new movie or game for extra appeal.
Clearance isles work fabulously to create a private stash of stickers, non-messy crafts, coloring, small cars, small toys, and travel-sized board games.
Have each child pack a few favorite items (i.e., stuffed animal, small toys, and crafts) to play on-board.
For older children, bring a new chapter book for a good hour of quiet time.
5. Pre-board rituals
Depending on how many children are traveling, please discuss window, isle, and middle seating arrangements BEFORE the flight.
Plan which children and parents will be sitting side-by-side to avoid any arguments on-board.
Review expectations in behavior, snacks, and sleeping schedules.
Make sure that everyone uses the toilet before the flight!
Buy any warm meals and/or drinks before boarding.
Get their energy out! Plan enough time for the kids to walk, run, and play for a bit before the flight. We’ve even played a family game of Duck, Duck, Goose before a long flight. Whatever you do, keep it safe and as non-annoying to others as possible. This bullet point alone may be just as important as the flight itself.
6. Take-off to-do’s
Have a lollipop ready for the take-off, as this is the time that ear-aches may ensue. Sucking will help to minimise ear pain and pressure.
Teach children how to “blow air into their cheeks” to help eliminate the discomfort in the ears.
Make taking-off a game to avoid nervous crying. If you’re familiar with “The Little Einsteins” cartoon, our family pretends that the airplane is “Rocket” and we sing the “pat, clap” chant until take-off. This worked for all four children.
For children with travel sickness or sensitive tummies from the cabin odor or change in air pressure, peppermint oil works well to alleviate nausea and upset stomachs. Bring some mint lozenges to help.
7. Avoiding jet lag
Carefully review the travel, arrival, time zone details and determine whether your child should try to nap on the flight or stay awake.
Try to maintain the child awake if you’re arriving to your destination closer to bedtime. For a long flight, the earlier nap, in this case, the better.
If a child will experience nighttime on the flight, try to mimic a semblance of your nighttime routine (i.e., reading a story, back rub, blanket, special cuddle toy) to encourage a deep sleep.
Ruthi Davis is a the Founder of Ruth Davis Consulting LLC with over two decades of success in advertising/marketing, media/publicity, business development, client relations, and organizational optimization for a variety of clients. Ruthi is a proud mom and influencer in the parenting and family market as founder of the Superfly Supermom brand.
From a newborn with impossibly sticky poop to a toddler who won’t stay still for more than a few seconds, diaper changing challenges never stop. A single baby will literally need thousands of diaper changes in just the first year. We’ve got you, and your baby’s bottom, covered with 10 diaper hacks to make all those changes just a little bit easier.
1. Creating a Barrier A newborn’s first bowel movements are black and tar-like. It’s called meconium and it’s a sticky mess. Right from the very fist diaper change, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to baby’s bottom to create a barrier on the skin. For any that does get stuck on, olive oil on a clean cloth will gently clean it off.
2. Keeping Track In those early months, you’ll want to know how often baby goes to the bathroom to make sure they are getting enough nutrients. Your pediatrician is probably also going to ask how many diapers baby goes through in a day, so you’re going to want to keep track. Instead of relying on your sleep-deprived brain, try an app like Sleep Tracker, in which you can also record feedings, sleep patterns, and milestones.
3. Sizing Up Blowouts up the back of the diaper are going to happen. If they start to become a regular occurrence, go up a diaper size. The height and weight guidelines for diapers are merely suggestions, so don’t worry that the diaper will be too big. What you want to check is that the leg openings aren’t loose, otherwise you might get leakage there.
photo: iStock
4. Tricks for Receiving Blanket Chances are you received at least one package of receiving blankets in preparation for your little bundle’s arrival, and chances are you have no idea what to do with all those small, thin blankets. Laying one on top of the changing pad cover makes for a quick clean-up when things get messy. That way you don’t have to worry about constantly washing the changing-pad cover. Also, stash one in the diaper bag for on-the-go changes in your car or public changing stations.
5. Emergency Diapers Speaking of diaper bags, there will come a time when you run out of the house and completely forget to grab yours. Or you look into the bag and realize you forgot to restock diapers! To avert disaster, keep a diaper or two and a travel-size pack of wipes in your glove compartment for such an occasion. Check your stash occasionally to make sure it’s still baby’s current diaper size.
6. Diaper Cream Brush Another thing that’s bound to happen when it comes to baby bums is diaper rash. There are many creams and lotions on the market to clear up rashy bottoms, and one thing almost all of them have in common is that they are very hard to clean off your hands and always seem to get under your fingernails. One accessory that’s worth looking into is the Baby Bumco Diaper Cream Brush for all your application needs.
7. Avoid the Spray It has probably happened to every parent. You get baby all cleaned up and are grabbing a fresh diaper only to get wet before getting the new diaper on. A good tip for post-nap changes is to wait a few minutes for your little one to wake up. As they get older, babies and toddlers are less likely to pee in their sleep, so you want to give them time to get it all out before you expose them to the air. You can also place a fresh diaper over top of boys while you slip the old one off and double up underneath for girls while you change them.
8. Clothing Hacks Baby clothes have built-in features to help avoid diaper woes. Those shoulder folds on many onesies and some shirts are not only there to help get the tops over baby’s head. You can also use them to take clothes off by pulling them down instead of up, which keeps baby’s face and hair clean in the case of a blowout. For curious toddlers who like to play with zippers and snaps, put them in their pajamas backwards to keep little hands out of messy diapers.
9. Make It Fun Diaper changes can be stressful for parents and babies alike. For younger babies, sing a song or recite a nursery rhyme to keep them calm. For fidgety toddlers, set aside a few easily washable toys that are reserved for diaper time only to keep their minds distracted and their hands busy. Your little ones may actually come to look forward to changing time!
10. Overnight Diapers For heavy night wetters, look for diapers specifically labeled for nighttime. They are more absorbent than regular ones, so it’s less likely that your little one will wake up in the middle of night soaked. You can also slip a Sposie Booster Pad into any type of diaper for extra absorbency.
I was among the first of my friends to have kids, which meant navigating the baby gear scene somewhat blindly. I walked through the aisles of Babies ‘R’ Us and Buy Buy Baby scanning whatever seemed useful, but not having much product advice beyond what my mom found useful 25 years ago. It wasn’t until I joined a playgroup of other new twin moms and took some parenting classes at the 92nd Street Y that I could chat about and see park blankets, pacifiers and push toys in action.
Raising kids inevitably means acquiring stuff. When you live in a two-bedroom apartment, in New York City space is at a premium. If something is no longer useful, I happily toss it or pass it along to a friend. I’ve compiled a list of sanity-saving gear for the first five years. These 50 products are worth the precious square footage they take up. If only I knew about them when registering!
Essentials for Sleep
Summer Infant SwaddleMes and Halo SleepSacks: Velcro makes for a great “baby burrito.” I find that swaddled babies sleep longer because their flailing arms don’t startle baby awake. Thanks, Dr. Harvey Karp andThe Happiest Baby on the Block!
MAM pacifiers and clips: Because there is no “upside-down,” baby can more easily pop these pacifiers back in. Glow-in-the-dark versions are brilliant. Clip a pacifier to baby’s car seat and carrier so you don’t have to fumble to find it.
Brookstone sound machine: My baby lets out a contented, sleepy sigh when she hears that rumble.
Blankets and Beyond security blanket animals: Introduce a lovey to your baby that you can replace if lost. Take a picture of all lovies with their labels visible to simplify your hunt for a replacement later on.
Carter’s Zip-Up Sleep & Play: Because who wants to search for snaps during the 3 a.m. diaper change?
Essentials for Food
Medela bottles: I pumped right into these and used them to feed my twins. The tops have just the nipple and a ring. Less parts = less dishes.
Nursing pillows: Double Blessings for twins, Boppy for singletons. These double as tummy time supports and lounge chairs.
Medela Easy Expression Bustier: Hands-free pump bra so you can relax, be productive, or just imagine you’re Madonna while pumping.
Tovolo silicone ice cube tray: Freeze homemade baby food purees. Pop out and store frozen cubes in Ziplocs. Defrost a cube or two for a quick meal.
Green Sprouts waterproof bibs: Rinse off and hang to dry for the next meal.
Fisher-Price SpaceSaver high chair and portable booster seat: These buckle onto regular adult chairs. The high chair cover easily snaps off to machine wash. Portable option is useful for long trips or dinner at a friend’s house.
Munchkin SureGrip straw cups: We used these to transition off milk bottles at a year and still use them at 5 years.
Munchkin Snack Catcher: Minimize spills and encourage independence.
The First Years Take & Tossplastic bowls, sippy cups, straw cups, and divided plastic plates: We use these daily for cereal, water, smoothies and meals. Avoid the dreaded, “Mom! My food is touching!”
Contigo water bottles: My favorite yet in the battle against leaks.
Beech-Nut fruit/veggie purees in disposable pouches: I use these on-the-go snacks to keep my baby awake in the stroller while rushing home for a nap. They are also good for incorporating vegetables that baby would spit out if served straight up.
OXO Tot dishwasher basket and drying rack: For the abundance of bottles, sippy cups, pacifiers, pump parts, straws and small accessories that are now part of your life.
IKEA adjustable-height toddler table and chairs: Great for meals and activities as kids grow.
Essentials for Travel
Lillebaby Nordic carrier: Great for naps on-the-go and for boarding airplanes with pre-walkers.
Baby Jogger City Select double stroller: As a city family, our stroller acts as a car. The sturdy wheels can handle snow, rocks, curbs and stairs. We’ve used various combinations and directions of car seats, stroller seats and a glider board.
Summer Infant 3D Lite: This lightweight umbrella stroller folds easily as we hop on the bus.
Graco Snap N Go stroller frame: The infant car seat easily clicks in, which is great for those first few months before baby can sit up in a regular stroller seat.
Graco Nautilus 65 LX 3-in-1 Harness Booster: This car seat transforms into two stages of booster seats for your growing child. My kids love to store their treasures in the cup holder and side cubbies.
JJ Cole BundleMe stroller bunting: Keeps baby cozy with just a light jacket. I wish I could crawl into this “stroller sleeping bag” on blustery mornings!
Aden + Anais muslin blanket/nursing cover: An airy cover-up for babies who are nursing or sleeping in a carrier or stroller.
PackIt freezable lunch box: Built-in ice packs save me a step on busy mornings.
Graco Pack N Play: Sets up in a minute. The basic version is affordable enough to keep one at each grandparent’s.
Usborne wipe-clean activity books: Keep kids busy on airplanes and cars and while waiting at the doctor’s office or restaurants.
Essentials for Health and Safety
DenTek Kids floss picks: These plus power toothbrushes and fluoride toothpaste are my best friends in the fight against cavities.
Summer Infant Ultimate Crib Sheet: This pad snaps to crib slats for easy changing, so there’s no need to hoist up the mattress. This is especially helpful when kids get sick or wet the bed at night. The three layers serve as a sheet, absorbent mattress pad, and waterproof pad.
Crib that converts to a toddler bed with side rail: Encourage independence, save your back and prevent falls. This setup can easily last for four years.
Safety 1st Finger Pinch Guard: Having these on my doors has saved us from many tears! Easily removable.
Puddle Jumpers: Life jackets that let kids practice their swimming strokes.
Diapering and Potty Essentials
Walmart Parent’s Choice diapers: Best deal out there. Size 1s are less than 10 cents each! With a wetness indicator strip, there’s no guessing whether baby needs a change.
Babies ‘R’ Us disposable changing pads: These are especially helpful when public restrooms don’t have changing tables and who knows what’s on the floor. I keep one on my changing table at home in case of a blow-out.
Aquaphor Healing Ointment: Skin protectant for diaper rash, drool rash, chapped lips, irritated skin and minor cuts.
Playtex Diaper Genie: I spent an entire year with three kids in diapers. Tossing diapers in the outdoor trash just wasn’t going to happen and this was great at locking away odors.
Babies ‘R’ Us diaper booster pads: Add absorbency to nighttime diapers.
Baby Bjorn Potty Chair: With my twins, it was useful for each to have his own potty so we could have “potty parties” together. My third went right for the regular toilet seat with the help of a step stool.
Essentials for Play
Fisher-Price Rainforest Bouncer: A great place to set baby down during your speed shower.
Infantino Twist and Fold Activity Gym and Play Mat: This easily collapses to store under a couch.
Lamaze toys: These colorful, textured toys clip onto car seats and strollers so they don’t fall overboard like our Sophie La Girafe did.
Fisher-Price Jumperoo: Gives baby a new vantage point and works the leg muscles.
Land’s End and KEEN water shoes: Sturdy treads prevent playground wipe-outs during sprinkler season.
Micro Kickboard Mini Scooters: Three wheels help new balancers. A solution for longer walks as you transition out of the stroller.
JJ Cole Outdoor Mat: This water-resistant blanket folds compactly into its own bag and is perfect for the park or beach.
Essentials for School
Skip Hop Zoo backpacks: The smallest doubles as a safety harness. The regular size works well for preschool.
Pottery Barn whiteboard calendar: Home base for coordinating school events, playgroups, playdates, birthday parties, babysitters, date nights, Sunday school volunteering, work commitments, doctor’s appointments, vacations, visitors and community events for our family of six.
Plastic homework folders: Protect papers from that inevitable water bottle spill.
Inchbug labels: Dishwasher- and washing machine-safe adhesive name labels. Perfect for labeling clothes, backpacks, folders, water bottles, lunchboxes and shoes. Reusable Orbit Labels are great too.
Expecting moms: I hope you’ll use this as a registry cheat sheet. New moms: I hope this will save you time as you weed through the gazillion products in the baby gear industry. Veteran moms: Thanks for chatting up your gear with me. Let me guess, did you just nod your head as you checked off all of these beloved items stocked in your own home?
Kristin Van de Water is a former journalist and teacher who relies on humor, faith, and her mom crew to get her through the day. Raising four kids in a two-bedroom NYC apartment, Kristin is always on the lookout for life hacks to save time, space, money, and her sanity.
Did you hear? Kristen Bell’s baby line—part of a “super secret project” the celeb and husband Dax Shepard have been working on—officially launched today! Meet Hello Bello––premium, plant-based baby products that you can shop exclusively at Walmart and the new Hello Bello website.
The couple co-founded the company with the belief that all babies deserve the best and that every parent should have access to affordable and high-quality products. The result is a treasure trove of 10 attractively-designed products for diapering, personal and home care—and even the outdoors, with prices ranging from $1.88 to $23.94.
In a recent press release, co-founder Dax Shepard recalled the reason he and Bell embarked on this venture together: “We know parenting is hard enough as it is. Parents shouldn’t have to choose between what’s good for their baby and good for their budget.”
We could not agree more—and that’s we already checked out the gorgeous Hello Bello website. As part of the first offerings, you’ll find laundry detergent made with organic soapberries ($13.88), sunscreen with non-nano zinc oxide ($9.78), shampoo and body wash made with organic botanical extracts ($6.98) and even diaper rash cream with soothing organic oils ($7.98).
Not to be outdone by rival baby service The Honest Company, Hello Bello also offers a diaper bundle service! Starting at $65, each bundle comes with seven packs of diapers, four packs of wipes and one freebie with your first order. Pick up to seven adorable prints and choose your delivery frequency so you’ll never run out of diapers again.
You can shop the entire new line on the Hello Bello.com, at Walmart stores nationwide or on Walmart.com.
Crunchy mamas rejoice: a new line of organic baby products is now at Target, and its products are non-GMO, pediatrician-tested, vegan, gluten-free and dermatologist-tested! Whoa.
The Made Of brand is a fave among moms who favor products that promise ultimate transparency, simplicity and safe, but effective, picks. According to spokesperson from Made Of, Target began selling the baby product line on Jan. 20, 2019 in approximately 450 stores in the United States.
So what does Made Of have for natural product-loving mamas—and their babies, of course? Pretty much just about everything you need! Popular Made Of picks include diapers, wipes, shampoo, hand soap, diaper rash cream, baby powder, lotion, sunscreen, multi-surface cleaner and its bottle and dish soap.
Oh and don’t worry about this organic line of baby products breaking the bank. These organic items from Made Of cost so much less than you could have expected. Made Of’s products are priced in a totally reasonable way, making them much more affordable than other organic, natural, non-toxic options.
Every parent wants the very best for their baby, but the cost of baby products—like diapers and wipes—can get pretty steep. Now you can score high-quality items with very wallet-friendly prices, thanks to these new Brandless baby and pets collections!
Brandless launched in July 2017, offering organic food staples and household items for a very exciting price of just $3 per item on most items. Since then, it has expanded to include safe beauty products and non-toxic household cleaners at the same cost. Now, Brandless is introducing new items made just for babies and pets.
The new collection—which launched today—includes super adorable diapers that are just $9 a pack and made with sustainable plant-based materials. They are also hypoallergenic, free from latex, fragrances, lotions and chlorine and come in six cut prints in non-toxic ink in sizes 1 to 6.
Besides diapers, the Brandless baby the collection also features baby care products including Plant-Based Baby Wipes, Unscented Baby Lotion, Tear-Free Baby Shampoo and Wash and Non-Nano Zinc Oxide Diaper Rash Cream. All items are just $3 and are free of parabens, phthalates, sulfates and fragrance.
Brandless also wants to help you feed your baby healthier products without steep prices and now offers organic, non-GMO baby food pouches in six flavors across two developmental stages for just $3 for a pack of four. The collection also has teething wafers in two flavors.
You can also score great deals on things for your fur babies. The new Pet collection features protein-first treats, supplements, non-toxic toys and clean pet care products.
All of the items are now available on Brandless. You can also set up subscriptions for items like diapers and wipes to have them delivered regularly. &
