While I was pregnant, I was completely overwhelmed by the amount of things I needed to get before the baby arrived. The industry is flooded with so many products and between the gifts and the things I purchased myself, I could have opened up a small boutique. We’re now six weeks in and here are the things I wouldn’t want to be without.

FridaBaby NoseFrida: I’m not going to lie. The concept of this thing, a device that allows you to suck the snot out of your babies nose with your mouth, might seem like the grossest thing, maybe ever? But I’ll promise you two things: 1) It’s really not as gross as it might seem. Don’t worry! Nothing is getting into your mouth. 2) It really does work like a charm. When your poor little baby is suffering from a congested nose, you’ll do anything to make your child feel better. This thing not only works, but works really, really well! We also got this, from the same makers, but have yet to use it.

Fisher Price Cradle ‘n Swing: Nate loves this thing and his very first smile (that I witnessed) happened from gazing at the spinning/light up mobile. We were lucky enough to get the Mamaroo passed down to us, but to be completely honest, he hated it.

Edited to add: My best friend who had her second baby several months ago, swears by the Baby Bjorn Bouncer Bliss. Even more than the above swing and god knows, it’s way less of an eyesore. I cannot speak for it since we didn’t try, but I had to point it out since it’s one of her ‘holy grail’ baby items.

White Noise Machine: Keith and I are that couple who’ve been sleeping with a white noise machine for years and now, it’s an absolute must for the nursery. As soon as this thing goes on, his lids get heavier and it drowns out all inside and outside noise.

Sleep Sheep: Another must that’s ideal for travel or if your baby gets fussy, the carseat or stroller.

Miracle Blanket: We’ve accumulated a variety of swaddle blankets, but this one is my favorite. Breathable, easy to use and keeps him nice and secure through each sleeping session.

Zippity Zip: Once we stopped swaddling him (at around 4 months), we transitioned him to a  Zippity Zip and he’s been using one ever since.

Bath Sponge: Giving your newborn a bath, especially for the first time, can be one of the most intimidating tasks. The first time I did it, I didn’t have this sponge and the process of cleaning him while trying to keep him from slipping, was more difficult than I could have imagined. After speaking to a friend, she told me about this sponge and it’s been a game changer. It cradles the baby and prevents any slipping, while keeping them warm and happy. However, if you’d rather bathe your newborn in the sink rather than the tub, the Puj Flyte came highly recommended!

Piyo Piyo Baby Nail Scissors: A friend recommended these and they’re the best! Better than any nail clippers and make the entire process so easy without the fear of slicing your babies finger.

 LILLEbaby: On so many occasions, this thing has been a lifesaver! Whenever I don’t want to bother with the stroller, or need both of my hands to do things around the house (or anywhere for that matter), after two minutes in this, he’ll immediately relax.

Postpartum Girdle: Okay, so maybe not a baby essential, but certainly a mom essential. I this wore as soon as I got home from the hospital (without clasping the bottom portion, umm.. for obvious reasons) and continued to wear for several weeks. While my stomach is ways away from looking the way it did pre pregnancy, this certainly helped to give it the jump start it needed.

Diaper Bag: If I’m being perfectly honest, I tried to be all cute in carrying a sleek, regular sized tote as my diaper bag, but I quickly learned that I’d need the real deal. My best friend (who is pregnant and due any day) got this one for herself and after testing it out for the day, I totally copied her. It’s discrete, fits a ton and doesn’t scream “hi, I’m carrying a diaper bag..”  I highly recommend!

Bugaboo Cameleon Stroller: I actually added this to the list months after I made this post, but it’s only because I get so many questions on what stroller we use. I know that the Bugaboo is crazy expensive, but we absolutely love it. It rides like a dream, is smooth, durable and so easy to maneuver. I would recommend it in a heartbeat. We have the cameleon version.

BABYZEN YOYO: Now that Nate is a bit older, we use the cameleon when we’re home, but when traveling, whether by car or plane, we love the BABYZEN YOYO. It’s expensive, but you guys, I swear, it’s the BEST travel stroller. Folds up to be nice and small (perfect for traveling and urban life), rides so smoothly and easy to use. If the BABYZEN is a bit too steep, I highly recommend going with the Mountain Buggy. While the BABYZEN is a tad of a better ride, the Mountain Buggy comes in a close second. I’ve had and tried both, so I speak from experience!

Nuna Pipa Carseat: Based on the recommendations of several “in the know” friends, I ended up with this carseat and we were so happy with it. Highly recommend adding an adapter for whichever stroller you end up with. Nothing beats being able to seamlessly shift your sleeping baby from carseat to stroller!

one piece ℅ of aden + anais

If You’re Planning to Nurse:

My BrestFriend: Makes nursing so much more comfortable and hands free! And while I haven’t tried the boppy, I’ve had a few friends tell me that they prefer this way more. {Also, seen here! Clearly it serves multiple purposes}

Nursing Bra: Got this bra in several colors and it makes nursing easier while being super comfortable!

Hands Free Pumping Bra: I’m all about anything that allows me to multitask and I love being able to work while pumping.

Bebe au Lait Nursing Cover: An absolute must for when it’s necessary to nurse in public and you’re not comfortable not being covered. What makes this cover so great is the structured opening on top, making it nice and easy to see your baby.

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