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

 

1. 1. 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.

1. 1. 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.

1. 1. 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.

1. 1. 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.

1. 1. 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.

The post 5 Newborn Essentials On Rotation The First 12 Weeks first appeared on Lindsey Boova.

After we got home from the hospital, I quickly realized I was missing a few key items – cue the late night breast feeding panic orders. A handful of must haves arrived quickly (thank you Amazon) to help me take care of myself and my newest little sidekick.

Hydration Support – Breastfeeding has me constantly thirsty, so having cute water glasses nearby keeps me sipping all day. They’re a great reminder to refill and recharge. And let’s be real, if something is out of arm’s reach while I’m nursing, it might as well be on the other side of the house because I cannot get to it.

Wipes Warmer – Our baby boy is not a fan of diaper changes. I thought a warm wipe might make the experience a little more pleasant – for everyone involved. Bonus: the box gives off a soft glow, which makes those middle of the night changes a bit less of a circus (have I mentioned how different changing a baby boys diaper is compared to a girls!)

Belly Band – Postpartum recovery is no joke and with an older child in the mix, that means I’ve been needing the extra support – literally. A good belly band has helped ease the strain on my healing body and allows me to move around much more comfortably.

Daily Log – Keeping track of feeds, diapers and naps is so much easier with a daily log. Sometimes I cant even remember the last time I ate – let alone what time I started feeding baby last. When the days blur together, having it all written down lifts a huge mental load.

Foolproof Swaddles – Swaddling is not a one parent job – and not every parent can get the hang of it. When my husband found these velcro style swaddles, we knew we had to try them. Now even he can wrap baby up perfectly, every time.

Friday Mom Cooling Gel Pads – These have been a breastfeeding lifesaver. Quick cooling hydrogel relief when things get sore, and I can keep going without bracing for every latch.

Each day is bringing a new rhythm, but these few things help me feel a bit more prepared. After all – it’s been many years since we were in the newborn stage! Whether you’re a first time mom or doing it all over again, having the right support makes a difference.

What item saved you in the newborn days?

For even more motherhood content, click here.

The post Saving Me Right Now: Newborn Essentials for Baby #2 first appeared on Lindsey Boova.

Whether its a beachside retreat or poolside paradise, you don’t have to scramble for essentials your kids will need. I’ve got your back with the ultimate packing list that’ll have you feeling like the queen of quick escapes.

Here are my top ten must-have items that’ll make your last minute vacation smooth, stress-free and even enjoyable!

• Water Resistant Beach Blanket – This blanket keeps the sand where it belongs; outside the confines of your lounge zone. Roll it out, plop it down and unwind.
• Silicone Beach Toys – Forget the days of cheap plastic toys that break with a single dig, and contribute to the massive amount of waste our planet generates. Silicone toys are durable, easy to clean and perfect for building a castle fit for a little king (or queen).
• Sunscreen Applicator – This is the best friend you didn’t know you needed. No more battling with sticky sunscreen or letting your spray sunblock dissipate in the wind. This handy applicator ensures you and the kiddos stay sunburn-free with even coverage. Toss it in your bag and enjoy the sun, no fuss!

• Mesh Toy Bag – Keeping beach toys organized and sand-free has never been easier. A mesh bag allows you to rings off the sand quickly and keep all those kid must have items in one place. Less mess means more time for fun in the sun!
• Wet-Dry Bag – Last but certainly not least, a wet-dry bag is essential for managing wet swimsuits and clothes. Keep all those damp clothes and gear contained, making the trip back that much more organized.

• Tablet with Headphones – Real talk, as much as we try to limit screen time and screen exposure, a tablet loaded with videos and games, along with a good set of headphones is a vacation lifesaver. Pro tip – load your profile with that show you’ve been binge watching, or the book you’ve been waiting to read so you can catch up while the little ones nap!
• Fabric Backed Goggles – Comfort is key when it comes to swimming goggles. These fabric backed goggles are gentle to get on and provide a snug fit. No more tangled or pull hair to worry about!
• Diving Toys – If your child is anything like mine, they LOVE the water. Make pool time even more exciting with diving toys that turn a simple swim into an adventure.

Check out my Amazon storefront for even more of my favorite finds. And, more of my travel recommendations can be found here!

The post Last-Minute Summer Vacation: 10 Ultimate Items for Moms on the Go first appeared on Lindsey Boova.

Is it impossible to find what you need, when you need it?

Here are a few of my favorite item that should be in your car at all times. I keep everything in this little zip pouch so everything stays in one place, and I actually have what I need, during those times I actually need them!

Hand Lotion

Hand Sanitizer

Kids Wipes

Clear Portable Pouch

Car Cleaning Gel

Reusable Gel Roller

Mini Trash Container

Everything is rounded up here on my Amazon storefront.

The post 10 Mom Must Haves to Keep in The Car first appeared on Lindsey Boova.