Let’s talk baby essentials. Registry lists can feel overwhelming, and with the amount of information out there, it’s hard to tell what’s truly helpful versus what will end up collecting dust in a corner. Now that I’m nearly 12 weeks into life with our sweet second baby, I wanted to share five things that have earned MVP status the last few months.
These are the items I reach for every single day – multiple times a day – practical, well designed and extremely useful, especially when you’re deep in the newborn trenches.
If you’re prepping your nursery or looking to gift something that won’t end up in the corner, unused, read on 
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- Keekaroo Peanut Changing Pad: I’ve mentioned this before, and I’ll mention it again. The Keekaroo is gold. No covers, no laundry. Just wipe and go. Which, let’s be honest, is a dream if you’re dealing with early morning blow outs. It’s sturdy, and the peanut shape basically cradles the baby in place.
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- Lovevery Play Gym: Yes, this item is a cult favorite, but for good reason. The hype is real. I had this play mat with my daughter (7 years ago) and it’s only gotten better with time. The play mat is truly thoughtfully designed. I love how it grows with baby; from tummy time to batting toys, to exploring colors and textures. All while looking pretty in your living room. It’s not overstimulating and I’ve used it every single day.
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- BabyBjörn Bouncer: This bouncer is my saving grace when I need to take the worlds fastest shower. It’s lightweight, easy to move around the house, and it folds up nice and flat (easily!). Baby boy loves the gentle bounce and I love that no batteries or plug in is required.
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- Hatch Rest Sound Machine + Light + Clock: This little gadget is everything. Another item we had with our daughter, that has since been upgraded for the better. We use the sound machine every night, and the soft light is perfect for middle of the night feedings and diaper changes. Having a soft clock to track those late night feedings is also helpful for this mama.
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- Oilo Studio Drew Glider: This nursery chair checks all the boxes, comfort, function and style. The high back offers amazing support (seriously helpful when running on fractured sleep), not to mention it reclines, glides and swivels. And, let’s talk about the generous scale of this chair. there’s plenty of room when big sister wants to climb up and cuddle too.
These five newborn essentials I use and LOVE and have made the first three months feel a little less chaotic and a lot more manageable. If you’re building your registry or wondering whats truly worth it, I hope this guide helps steer you in the right direction. You truly don’t need THAT much and these few items will definitely get you through the first few months.
Special Shout Outs to two more items I absolutely love, but don’t necessarily use every day.
Doona Car Seat + Stroller: The Doona is a game changer. This item did not exist with our first born, and now, as a suburban mama juggling multiple kiddos, this item is legit. It goes from car seat to stroller in seconds which is beyond helpful when I’m doing drop off with big sis or running errands solo. No dragging around a heavy carseat or having to wake up a sleeping baby makes my life so much easier.
Artipoppe Baby Carrier: Babywearing – but fashionable – the Artipoppe is definitely a stylish and functional piece in my mama must have toolkit. It’s incredibly easy to use, even one-handed, because lets be real, when you’ve got a 3 month old, items that are usable one handed are essential. The fit is supportive for baby and comfortable for mom, making it perfect for a walk with the dog, grocery shopping, or just up and down the stairs in your own home trying to get something – anything – done.
Any questions about these? Or want me to share more baby gear favorites? Leave a comment below!
And, for mamas freshly postpartum, check out the few items that saved me after giving birth.
