Thought we could do this thread again!

Those of us that are moms have found different things to be useful or a waste of money. So I though we could list our individual findings for all the preggos out there! I could still use some pointers for things myself and appreciate the btdt mom perspective Here are the categories, I will fill mine in later

Travel (carseats, strollers, etc.)

Sleeping (cribs, sheet savers, bassinets, swaddles, pack n play, etc.)

Nursing & Eating (breast pumps, bottles, niplpe products , making own food, highchairs, bibs, ect.)

Bathing & Grooming (bath seats, tubs, baby shampoo, nasal aspirators, nail clippers, etc.)

TOYS!

Activity devices (bouncer, swing, play mat, jumperoo, jumpers, bumbo)

Other

[♥Ashley♥]

Awesome! Im totally gonna bookmark this! I hope all you mommies respond!

[amazing_love]

I also hope there are LOTS of responses! I need all the help/advice i can get at this point!

[sara~b]

Travel I will be getting an infant carseat and a Moby sling. I hope to not use a stroller until baby is about a year+.

Sleeping Receiving blankets and a Pack N Play. We might get a crib after the first 8-12 months but we really don't have space for one.

Nursing & Eating breast pump, bottles, storage bags, breast pads, cream for cracked nips

Bathing & Grooming bath seat, lotions, baby wash, and meds. i usually just end up breaking off newborns nails. I'm too afraid to cut them!

TOYS We have a ton of Snoopy toys (plush) plus keys, teethers, stacking toys, rattles, etc. I'm going to cut back on how many toys this one gets because Gemma was more interested in staring at faces or looking in the mirror or banging on pots with a wooden spoon. Tupperware was a fave too!

Activity devices We got the swing already. I will probably not get any other things until after we have baby because I am hoping this baby will not be as fussy as Gemma was.

Other Clothing and cloth diapers of course! Plus burp cloths and socks/booties and hats. A convertible car seat will be another thing on my list so that we can switch as soon as we want especially if baby is as big as Gemma was!

[LisanAndy]

Travel (carseats, strollers, etc.) I only bought a Graco infant seat because they outgrow them so fast. I have a double stroller for my girls if I'm going somehwere alone but if Andy or someone else will be with me then I have 2 umbrella strollers. They're light, easy to store, and my girls love them.

Sleeping (cribs, sheet savers, bassinets, swaddles, pack n play, etc.) I cosleep for the first 4-5 months of life. Neither of my girls liked their bassinet AT ALL. I used receiving blankets for swaddling but both my girls didn't like to be swaddled past 2 or 3 months. I used the pack n play a lot in the beginning for Rylie to sleep in during the day when I was downstairs. I now use it to put Rylie in to play if I can't watch every little thing she's doing or for discipline for Taylor... she calls it her cage

Nursing & Eating (breast pumps, bottles, niplpe products , making own food, highchairs, bibs, ect.) I used a Medela double electric pump but really only used it in the beginning when I needed to relieve engorgement. I use Playtex Ventaire bottles. They've ALWAYS kept the most gas out of baby's tummy. I always use slow nipples and never make them fast. Not only does it prevent gas in the early months but they get bored trying to drink from a slow nipple and easily transition to a cup. I use Beech Nut baby food. I have a highchair for my girls until they're 2 and then they sit in a booster at the table.

Bathing & Grooming (bath seats, tubs, baby shampoo, nasal aspirators, nail clippers, etc.) Until the baby is 2 months they're sponge bathed. Afterward I have a little seat thingy I got from Wal Mart. Now that Taylor's older she sits by herself and Rylie is supported with my one hand behind her back so she can sit up and play too. I use whatever baby shampoo there is, never store brand though. It always breaks my girls skin out badly if it's not name brand. I've used my nasal aspirator more with Rylie since she's had more colds then Taylor ever did. I never clip their nails until they're closer to a year. Their fingers are scary to clip! I always use a nail file and just file them down.

TOYS!

Activity devices (bouncer, swing, play mat, jumperoo, jumpers, bumbo) My play mat and walker have been awesome since my girls were about 2 or 3 months old. I use to stick pillows and blankets around them in their walker because they loved to sit upright and play. I can't say enough about the Bumbo seat either... it's amazing! My johnny jump up and swing have also been helpful. The swing was more helpful for Taylor, she LOVED swinging and it gave me a break but Rylie's not that into it. The crib mobile was always loved by both my girls. It gave me some time to get things done while they cooed and giggled at it.

Other
-Lansinoh cream for BF and start using it a month before baby is born
-Some nursing pads have sticky stuff on the back to stick to your bra and some don't. I like the ones that do so they're not popping out of your shirt. I usually bought the Lansinoh brand.
-Thermometers are always a good thing to have. One that takes only a few seconds is much easier to use on a baby/child.

If I can think of more I'll add more

[ANGWife]

Travel: We have the Graco SafeSeat and love it. We have a few strollers but I'm really glad I didn't get the travel system. We also use sunshades in the back windows (we tried without them and the sun just flooded into his face). And get yourself a mirror so you can see back in the back seat!

Sleeping: We have a grow with me crib. We did a mini co sleeper. But I never attached it to the bed. That feature was not needed IMO. It does stink though if you get one because you have to buy the sheets made just for that bassinet (they weren't cheap). I LOVE the Swaddlemes. Henry still uses them every now and then. Halo Sleep Sack are great too. No need to spend alot on pricey blankets! We have a used Graco play yard, and use it alot. They too mak eit so you can only use Graco sheets (is it a conspiracy?). The crib music boxes as a wonderful buy! So is the musical soothing seahorse. He still sleeps with it. Also we have the breathable crib bumpers. Not the most attractive, but I know it keeps him safe. We also have these child safe night lights. They work great so you don't have to turn on the bright light to check on baby. And invest in a good monitor, get the kind that has 2 handhelds (the carry around ones).

Nursing & Eating: I rented the pump that the hospital had and they also gave me the supplies. I love our Playtex bottles. Some people think the liner are expensive, but I'd rather pay more on the bottles than on other pricey baby items. Henry tried lots of pacifiers. He liked soothies at first, now he loves the Playtex ones. We make some of our own food, just use a food proccesor/chopper. Buy lots of dark colored bibs for feeding! Baby food stains are hard to get out when you can only use delicate soaps. We never used burp clothes, just doubled the swaddle blankets. We have a used Evenflo high chair. Save yourself the trouble and get a highchair that you can use one handed.

Bathing & Grooming: We were given a baby tub. Henry still bathes in it. Good to have but tricky to store. We continue to use Johnson baby wash. Hooded towels are cute but they outgrow them quickly, so don't buy many.

TOYS! Just a recommendation, buy a few jelly teething things BESIDES the teething rings. Henry was too young to even hold his rings when he was teething. He also LOVES those books that crinkle and play car keys.

Activity devices: We used our bouncy alot. And the swing even more. His play mat he quickly outgrew (he rolls over and it collapes on him!). Never needed or cared for jumperoos. He enjoys his exersaucer! At first it looks like too much stimulation on that thing, but it's perfect. We have a Bumbo, he uses it but wouldn't miss it.

Other: Clothes: Lots of onesies for summer babies! Sun hats, extra bibs for all that drool, you can never have too many socks, and cotton footed sleepers.

[**Jenn**]

Travel--I never used an infant seat at all, went right to the convertible. We have a Britax Roundabout that Liam used, now Lochy uses, and Lila will use when she's born. We also have a Britax Marathon that Liam is in now and Lochy will go into when Lila is born. We're getting Liam a Recaro Vivo Booster Seat. I do have a stroller--Combi I-thru. I love the feature of it reclining all the way back so I *could* use it with an infant if I wanted. Plus the seat can lift out and be faced toward me or out. We also have a double stroller (I forget which but I know its a side by side) but haven't used it in a while since I think the boys are too old for a stroller and they prefer to walk. I have a peanut shell sling which I use for the first few months. I'm also getting a baby hawk (like a mei tai) that I'll start using when Lila is a little older.

Sleeping--The crib is the same one I've used for both boys. We actually got it on ebay (used but in excellent condition) and saved ourselves about $300! It's a Simmons brand I believe. We cosleep for a long time though so the crib doesn't get a whole lot of use. We've never used a basinet or a cosleeper as my kids won't tolerate them. As far as crib sheets though I prefer flannel for winter and cotton jersey for warmer months. My boys both hated to be swaddled but on the rare occasion I tried I preferred using the waffle weave receiving blankets--you can really pull them tight!

Nursing & Eating--I have a Medela Pump in Style Advanced and am going to get another one since it crapped out on me. I have a manual one too but it doesn't do anything--can't get a drop out unless I'm super duper engorged. Lansinoh nipple cream for those first 2 weeks. I also love having the boppy. Even when we supplemented with Liam, Ian used to boppy to feed him his bottles. We have some Dr. Brown's bottles, helped the most with gas. My Mom made me breast pads (a couple dozen) out of cloth diapers and I love them, hate the disposables. I've heard good things about the wool ones too. I make my own baby food and use a rice cooker/steamer to steam any veggies and/or fruits that need to be and a food processor to puree everything. I freeze in ice cube trays and when frozen pop them out into gallon sized freezer bags and label and date them. My only preference with high chairs was that the seat was not cloth and could be easily wiped down so I wasn't washing the cover every day or sitting my baby in dried pureed food (yuck!), I believe its a Fisher Price one.

Bathing & Grooming--I have a generic, no frills baby tub. It does have the hammock for newborns which I love--makes bathing a tiny, wet, wiggly baby much easier. We always use the Johnson and Johnson lavender body wash--love the way it smells and it soothes the boys before bed. Baby safety q-tips are a must too, so you don't dig too far in the ear canal. I never liked those baby clippers, I just use cuticle scissors to cut baby nails. I do like having a bunch of baby washcloths on hand, we still use them on the boys actually. And a couple good, thick, hooded towels (they can tend to be really thin and flimsy so shop around for nice thick ones).

TOYS!

Activity devices--We have a bouncer and a swing, neither of which the boys were terribly impressed with. They both, however, absolutely loved the exersaucer starting at around 4 months or so. They both hated tummy time as well so we didn't really get a ton of use out of the floor activity mats. Anything with bright colors and different textures they seemed to like the most. We have a bumbo that both the boys hated as well. Who knows what Lila will end up liking though.

Other--Everything is so hit or miss. What one baby loves the other might hate. It's a lot of trial and error.

[Adriana's Mommy]

Here is what worked for me..

Travel : Both of my children are Fall babies.. I used a Infant carrier in the winter time, with a Urban bundleMe (wind and water proof), and hat.. That's all I need, even when it's 2 degree's outside.. We also purchased a Recaro Signo convertable a head of time, last time I ordered one it took 3 months to come in.. It was in high demand and the company only made so many a month..

Sleeping Pack in play to use as a bassinet and 2 Miracle blankets. That's it.. Never really used receiving blankets.. But did use regular blankets when I cuddled with my kids because the house is a little cold for babies in the winter time and we keep our thermostat at 72.. lol

Nursing & Eating : I'm BF my son, but I'd suggest a Medela Pump In style (preferably the limited edition one) if your a working mom.. Also, get Lanolish (sp?) freezer bags.. I started to store milk once my milk came in, so I'd have a stash in my deep freezer. Also, try getting a deep freezer if you don't have one.. Makes storing food and breast milk so much easier and it lasts much longer in a deep freezer then a regular freezer..

Bathing & Grooming: Bath seat, Grins and Giggles lotion and body wash (if you can find it).. The best smelling lotion ever! People always comment how clean and wonderful my kids smell.. I only use the Oatmeal on my son, my DD uses Lavender, Cucumber Melon, Sweet Pea, and Berry.. She's got a varity.. lol If you kids suffer from exzema. I'd suggest trying Cetaphil (for all life stages).. Works wonders on dry skin. I also only use regular bath towels and wash clothes when I bathe my kids.. I do however have lots of toys for them to play with.. I purchased one of those toy holders that's shaped like a lady bug.. Keeps everything nice and neat.

Looks like this



TOYS!

Activity devices : Bouncer, Craddle swing, jumparoo, and exersaucer.. Highly recommended..

Other: Books Books Books!! Go to Goodwill and start building up your collection.. The books only cost 45 cents each and they have days when they are half price..

Also check out the thrift stores.. You can get infant/toddler toys for a a few dollars.. I found a doll house in perfect condition for only $10.

[Trannyfromtheuk]

Travel; We used the graco infant car seat we got with our travel system. When she out grew that she got (and is still in) Brittax - Felix and that will probally last her till shes 39lbs. Stroller/Buggy wise when i could i would use our graco tour delux travel system but if i couldnt use that we have a umberella stroller.

Sleeping Mia was in a moses basket (baisenett) at the side of our bed till she was 6 weeks old then she went into her own room and into her cot. We had a easy transition into her cot if anything she slept a lot better. We got her cotbed from Babies r us - Shes still in it now and we will use it again when i have another baby - we will just replacethe matress.

Nursing and Eating We FF so we used the Avent bottles with the Avent teats. She always preferd the faster flowing teats. We've never had any problem with reflux/gas etc. She also transitioned onto a beaker at 6 months and was drinking from a straw cup just after a year. We always made our own food apart from when we was going out for the day we would by "Hipp Organic" baby foods. Like its been suggested Dark bibs because baby food stains!

Bathing and groomingWe've always had a pretty consistant bedtime routine and this includes bathing Mia on a nightly basis around the same time (between 7 and 7.30 depending on when her feed was due) We had a fisher price aquarium bath center at £34.00 it was pretty pricey but it was a god send! It has a little hamoc to hold baby in so you dont have to keep a tight grip on a slippery baby! bath produtcs with have sworn by johnson's lavender bath time produtcs, Not only do they smell lush but they relaxed Mia. When cutting her nails i used to use grooming scissors till she was around 6 months then moved to clippers. Only ever cut her once and that was like last week!

Toys

Activity devicesOther then rattles and baby teethers the only other thing she really liked was her Leapfrog Learn and Groove activity center (we called it her ba-ba-do-wha) She loved that and was facinated by the disco ball it has on it

OthersMia loved her bumbo. I would reccomend them to any mum-to-be. I am sure this is what helped Mia sit up early. As soon as she could hold her head up she would sit in this thing.

[~*Bethy*~]

Travel (carseats, strollers, etc.) -

*Infant carrier - I dont care how buff or in love with your baby you are but NEVER wake a sleeping baby, hence the need for a carrier. I almost cried when Ian grew out of his at 4months old (18ls) I HIGHLY recommend the 32lber's

*Stroller - anything that the carseat snaps into. Im getting a jogging stroller this time around though, the "travel system" is just TOO big and bulky!!

*Also, EXTRA BASES!!! One for you, one for DH and one for grandma!!

*Window shades are a neh for me, because I have privacy glass - really, their laying at the bottom of my Jeep - right where I put them when I first bought them waste of $20

*Dont forget an infant headrest!!! Towels/receiving blankets DONT CUT IT!! The headrest is an aftermarket thing you pop in, even the built in ones never worked for us, I always had to put in my other in INSIDE the carseat's headrest!! pain in the butt to keep a 2 week olds head from flopping around on a curvy road!!

*leave a bag of baby wipes STRICTLY for the car - youll understand why when you forget the diaper bag


Sleeping (cribs, sheet savers, bassinets, swaddles, pack n play, etc.)

*Screw the crib the first few months, believe me. A bassinet that detaches from the base is a wise decision

*With that in mind, a pack n play is a GOOOD thing to have - the bassinet holds up to *dont quote me* 15lbs *might have changed since I havent had a baby in a while* Very easy to have baby in right next to the bed

*Co-sleeping momma's - ALWAYS put baby in the middle of the bed, they have little box things like this to help keep baby in place Also they have Co-sleeping bassinets that those mats snap into

*A night light is very useful, if you cant find your way around a haunted house in the dark, dont try this at home with a bassinet with a sleeping baby in it....crashing into things hurt, and often make certain objects cry and want to be fed again learnt from experience

*Oversized blankets *with supervision* are better than receiving blankets. I never used em, in fact I used em more for spit up rags than blankets. their SUPER EASY to swaddle in, baby feels secure, and you dont always have to put the bottom part up. most of the time you can do a lazy swaddle (around the arms) and its just as effective as a receiving blanket, even more so I think. Plus their warmer.

Nursing & Eating (breast pumps, bottles, nipple products , making own food, highchairs, bibs, ect.)

*ok Ill go down the line here - Breast pump, Ive only used one, and its the manual single medela breast pump. Only used it when I had to pump a bottle if I was leaving her with someone. Great for in the car on the go, you can pump and feed all without pulling over

*Bottles, I would recommend the playtex nursers *the ones with the inserts* you can get all the bubbles out, and saved my VERY VERY colicky daughter from non needed tumy achs

*Nipple products - lanolin in the purple tube. I keep hoping burts bees makes out with a nipple cream *daydreams* Edible for baby, so no wiping off before feedings, and if put on thick, really does help soothe cracked nipples

*Making own food - ya cook it, and smash it - what more do you need to do to make your own food? I never used a fancy smancy product, and used my magic bullet a few times - the rest of the time, I just used a fork

*High chairs - Any high chair that can recline to get baby out so you dont have to pop the tray on and off a million times a day. Not to mention Morgan used to take naps in hers so Id recline it and throw a blanket around her - I had the fisher price rainforest one, and I loved it!!!

*BIBS ARE A MUST!!! - all shapes and sizes, you can never go wrong with buying TONS of bibs!!!

*Also for messy babies, get one of thoes plastic floor mats so you can just pick it up and hose it off - dude...saved me soo many hours of cleaning the floor!!

*any brand of ready mops - YES THESE ARE A LIFESAVER!!! I dont care who tells you they dont work, for disinfecting a floor under a high chair, its PERFECT!!

*you can never have too many baby spoons. Enough said.

Bathing & Grooming (bath seats, tubs, baby shampoo, nasal aspirators, nail clippers, etc.)

*Bath seats? meaning? Im lost apparently I never used one

*I used the el cheapo blue tub with turqoise tub bottom. No need to go fansy shmansy when the kid will be out of it at 5 months anyways!

*Disposable washcloths, made by huggies - OMG lifesavers!! just the right amount of soap and if used right, they are reusable!

*anything with a "kit" Id stay away from, believe me youll never use it. I JUST NOW used up the lavender shampoo that I got when Ian was a baby - ya...buy single items!

*of course, nasal aspirators, finger nail clippers *Remember NOT TO CLIP a newborns fingernails, as the bottoms of the nails are still attached to the skin!!! you will end up making the fingers bleed , this is what hand mittens are for!!* Thermometers *ear ones are inaccurate!!* Medicine droppers arnt a bad idea either.

TOYS! - uhhhh.....depends on the kid? My infants LOOVED the busy bugs car seat toys. plastic rings, things that rattle, squeak, shiny things *yes much like birds* oo..hehe...shiny things....

Activity devices (bouncer, swing, play mat, jumperoo, jumpers, bumbo)

*bouncers that have vibration are GREAT for swollen ankles, believe me, its been tested! Also great for babies who dont like swings!

*Fisher price cradle swing *rain forest, precious planet* their expensive, but any swing that lets you go side to side AND plugs into a wall is VERY welcome at our house!!!

*jumperoo was a bust, dont get one

*Exersaucer though - dont know why, maybe its more stability? neither of my kids liked the jumperoo but LOVED the exursaucer

*Bumbo, never used one...I always made baby sit up on their own LOL

Other[/QUOTE]

*Boppys work great for holding a newborn up, always use supervision.

*wipe warmers arnt worth your time or frustration, and can harbor germs!

*clorox anywhere spray is my best friend

Hope Ive helped some of you!!!

~Beth

[soImarriedAnerd]

Travel (carseats, strollers, etc.)---carseat no matter what kind if your going to travel with it on a plane make sure it has a ok to fly sticker on it or they will not let you use it. If you have to check its a MUST is a bag to put it in. The reason I say the bag is a must is because your luggage can only wt so much. So what I do is stuff all my CD and some blankets in the bag with the seat. There is no weight restriction for the car seat so they think your just padding it so that its safer, which I am Also doing. LOL But it takes a good 10lbs off my suitcase so I can put more in it!
A sling/carrier is a must when traveling also, a stroller would be a PITA. (wraps or carriers without metal in them can go through the security check without taking the child out!)

Sleeping- Aden & Anais muslin blankets are the BOMB...I have 4 and i use them for burping rags/blanket and swaddling. They are larger than a normal receiving blanket so you can swaddle MUCH better! Plus the get softer each wash...I use them when on the couch as a little lap blanket! I don't have a crib/pnp or any of that stuff LOL

Nursing & Eating (breast pumps, bottles, niplpe products , making own food, highchairs, bibs, ect.) Earth mama angel baby nipple butter ROCKS-I use it on my nipples/chapped lips and cuticles!

Bathing & Grooming a pod tub is awesome!

TOYS! So far an unopen small bag of chips if london's fav! LOL

Activity devices --nothing for you all yet! LOL

Other GRIPE WATER----its a homeopathic cure for hiccups and tummy issues...you can find it in most big stores (target, etc). I MUST MUST MUST!

[ShannonMVT]

Travel (carseats, strollers, etc.) We use a Graco SnugRide and it's worked fine. Got the MetroLite stroller that the carseat snaps into and I've liked it. We also got a cheap umbrella stroller. I really wish I had bought my Beco carrier when he was little. Amazon.com: Butterfly II Beco Baby Carrier in Ryan: Baby I like wearing him around the house when he's fussy. (I had some cheaper carriers when he was little and ended up not using them much b/c they weren't as comfy/easy)

Sleeping (cribs, sheet savers, bassinets, swaddles, pack n play, etc.) We used the mini co-sleeper but had it set up as a bassinet. Until he was like 4 months and he was getting too big. I liked the idea of him going right next to me but his sleep noises kept me up so it worked better to have him in the next room. He's in a convertible crib now with an Angel Care sensor since he sleeps on his tummy. Angel Care monitor for me = peace of mind, mommy is able to sleep and not constantly checking to see if baby is still breathing! Graco Angelcare Movements Sensor with Sound Monitor - Graco - Babies "R" Us One of the great things we did was buy this little flat waterproof pads (made by Gerber sold in BRU) they come in a 2 pack. I had 6 of them. I put several on top of his bassinet sheet stacked up (they laid flat well) and then when he would spit up (reflux baby!) I'd just peel one off and a clean dry one would be underneath already ready to go. I swaddled and I think SwaddleMes worked best for us. Didn't care for Miracle Blanket and Halo sleep sack would have worked only if I'd had a winter baby (pretty heavy material). We have a pack and play, have not used it too much yet but will use it for traveling and when he needs to nap somewhere or be contained.

Nursing & Eating (breast pumps, bottles, niplpe products , making own food, highchairs, bibs, ect.)
I used my SIL's double electric Medela pump. it's nice but I would have gone with something more basic if it hadn't been free since I SAH. Lansinoh breast creme is a must. We use the Born Free glass bottles and they work fine but we don't use them much. Highchair we got off Craigslist I think it is Fisher Price, I like that it has rolling wheels, I move it from the table over to the sink while I do dishes in the morning and talk to him while he plays. A boppy is a must for BFing moms. I bought a 2nd one at a garage sale so I have one upstairs in his nursery and one downstairs so I don't have to keep toting it up and downstairs. I like using cotton nursing pads (disposable ones irritate me) I got them online somewhere. I got my nursing bras at Target, they are not too much money and work okay for me.

Bathing & Grooming (bath seats, tubs, baby shampoo, nasal aspirators, nail clippers, etc.)
We are still using an infant tub, but one that lets him sit up more (mom found at a garage sale), we used to use baby shampoo but now we just use plain water and he gets clean just fine and that way nothing is irritating his eczema. He HATES the nasal aspirator but sometimes I have to use it. I used to chew off his fingernails when he was tiny, now I clip them while he is nursing if he's calm/not moving.
TOYS!

Activity devices (bouncer, swing, play mat, jumperoo, jumpers, bumbo)
He loooved his bouncer, it had an aquarium thing that moved and played music, good when he was fussy. He had a travel swing and he HATED it, I think it crunched his tummy b/c of the angle (again, reflux baby). We bought a rainforest full size swing when he was older and I WISH we had it when he was little, I bet he would have liked it then. Exersaucer he LOVES. We have the baby einstein one (craigslist) Amazon.com: Graco Baby Einstein Discover and Play Entertainer: Baby and one borrowed from a friend that is great, they actually walk around the table, called Bright Starts actvitiy table I think. Amazon.com: Bright Starts Tropical Fun Around We Go Activity Station: Baby Bumbo, has been nice here and there, not a "must have" for us. No jumperaoo but we have a Graco doorway jumper borrowed from someone and he LOVES it. Just check to see if you have doorways that will hold one, we only have one spot in our house where we can use it so that's a bummer. Plat mat, I guess he liked it for a short time when he was younger. Ours was pretty basic so I dunno if that is why it wasn't a big hit or what. I wouldn't spend a ton of money on one though.

Other

He wasn't interested in toys for a few months. He's liked his mirror. Umm, he LOVES his crib mobile but I was shocked I thought they were just kinda for looks but he really likes it. I actually set it up on his changing table and I play it for him to distract him as he gets his diaper changed. His grandma made him a Taggie blanket and just recently he's liked playing with it. There is a teething necklace made by Nuby that is AWESOME.Save $$$ on Luv n' Care Nuby BPA-Free Bug a Loop Teether Bead Necklace - KidSurplus Easy to hold. Also easy to hold and one of his favorites is the oball football Amazon.com: O-BALL FOOTBALL by Rhino Toys: Toys & Games
We got this thermometer Vicks Baby Thermometer - Rectal - Vicks - Toys "R" Us works great
I recently learned he breaks out from the Pampers sensitive wipes (go figure) and using cloth wipes has really saved his bum.

[misfitinmn]

I'm just going to do a brief summary of things:

Swaddling SAVED MY LIFE. We swaddled Ben in a double blanket swaddle for 7 months - I will never live my life again without the Ultimate Recieving Blanket (HUGE and perfect for swaddling) or regular recieving blankets (we used these for the 2nd blanket of the 2-blanket swaddle). I cannot praise the swaddle enough.

Breast pads. Something REALLY absorbant. I used infant diapers at first, because I leaked A LOT for probably the first 3 months. I used the Medela Pump-in-Style to pump for Ben when I went back to work. It was great!

We had the Chicco Keyfit 30 carseat and I would highly recommend it. It's SO easy to use and it comes with great infant padding.

I also used Hylands Teething Tablets a lot. Not sure if they actually worked, but in my mind, they helped.

I might have to come back to this later - my mind is drifting.

[**jessie**]

To begin with, my apologies. I am always so long winded with my replies, lol.

Travel : Infant seat is a must. Like Beth said, never wake a sleeping baby. I have the Maxi Cosi and its great, especially if you have a small car like I do. If your car as the Latch hooks, definitely buy the Latch base for the seat. They are expensive but worth their weight in gold- so easy, and you never have to worry about incorrect installation. No travel system- I really cant imagine needing/wanting one. I got a Jeep jogging stroller and a Maclaren umbrella stroller. Moby wrap- not much of a fan, too expensive and not easy to use. I actually like my Baby Bjorn, but dont use it very often.

Sleeping Not too much to add here. I borrowed a bassinet. He doesnt like it. I would recommend getting a used one or borrowing one. Also, sleep sacks are great! Keeps baby warm and is safe. Also, I would only buy maybe 1 swaddle wrap to begin with. I think I bought 5, and there are all sitting there b/c he hates to be swaddled. I never figured out what to use receiving blankets for, they are really to small and too thin to be used as blankets.

Nursing & Eating I'm an exclusively pumping mommy and my Medela pump in-style is my most used baby item!! Love it! I bought a (barely) used one for very cheap and just replaced the parts. Get bottles that have some sort of vent system (Playtex drop ins or ventaires, dr. browns, ect) so baby doesnt have to struggle against neg pressure. Instead of buying specific burp clothes, go to Ikea... they have SUPER cheap plain white 100% cotton hand towels in their bathroom section that work wonderfully.

Bathing & Grooming I borrowed an infant bath tub and do use it. Don't bother with those hooded baby bath towels- your regular ones actually work better because they are bigger. Keep diaper rash ointment of some sort on hand always. For diapers, I like Pampers best. I have a changing table and don't know what I would do without it. Also, we got the Diaper Champ diaper garbage can and have been very happy with it. Johnson & Johnson company is one of the leaders in testing their products on animals - please avoid these if this is an issue that is important to you.

Activity devices: He doesn't care for the swing. If you get one, try to get a cheap used ones on Craigs List. Can't comment on anything else at the moment.

Other
-disposable breast pads- I found the reusable ones too itchy
-Several packs night maxi pads for after the delivery
-only get 1-2 pacifiers to begin with- some babies dont like
-if you are going to pump: lots of collection bottles and freezer bags
-hemorrhoid wipes (with only witch hazel and aloe on them): very good for your lady bits after the delivery during the healing phase when you get quite itchy
-boppy pillow w/ at least 2 covers: you will use it all the time, whether you breast or bottle feed

[Mars]

Travel (carseats, strollers, etc.)

Car Seats - We use a Chicco Keyfit and I found it to be very useful. I have a 2/3 door SUV and I found that this worked well for me. Also it prevented me from having to disturb the baby when she was sleeping and I needed to go somewhere. I had also purchase a Kolcraft Universal carseat carrier which worked well with a few minor modifications to enhance it's safety.

We also have a Recaro Signo convertible car seat which I used when I was in the US and it worked wonderfully. It is an excellent seat but I am unsure about how it will fit in my car. I am researching getting a new SUV so we'll see how that goes.

Strollers - We use a Kolcraft Umbrella/Lightweight stroller from 6 months and I love it. I never bothered with the travel systems because they were too bulky. The Kolcraft Universal Carseat Holder (mentioned earlier) was a great and easy alternative.

Sleeping (cribs, sheet savers, bassinets, swaddles, pack n play, etc.)

Chicco Pack n Play with bassinet and changing table - We used a this (except the changing table) and it is wonderful. Amara slept it in for the first 6 months of her life, then she went to her crib and now she's sleeping in it again.

Graco Playard (in Bugs Quilt) - This one stays by my ILs and is great because it has loads of activities for her to keep her occupied if they need to put her in it to do something.

Crib- I can't remember the model right now but I really liked this because it came with the rail guard so the baby does not chew on the wood.

Sleep Sack - This worked great when Amara started using her hands lots and pulling out of her blankets. She was not a huge fan of swaddling.

Nursing & Eating (breast pumps, bottles, niplpe products , making own food, highchairs, bibs, ect.)

Breast Pump - I used the Ameda Purely Yours Double Electric and I found it very useful and it worked great. No complaints at all.

Milk Storage - I purchased the Mothers Milkmate Storage Rack with 10 bottles (actually I loved this so much I purchased 2). This was excellent because I could put it neatly in my freezer and the rotation was easy. I only wish they made them for larger quantities. For storage bags, I used Lansinoh and Medela. No complaints with either.

Bottles - I used the Evenflo glass bottles along with the ones I got with the pump and the storage system. The plastic ones are all BPA free. I never had any problems with nipples or leaking.

Feeding Chairs - I never got the high seat but I got the Safety First Booster Seat. This brand did not have the best reviews but it worked great for us. I don't use it in a chair though. I put it right down on the floor and the tray is easy to take off and clean.

Making own food - This was a simple process for me. The only thing I purchased specifically for this was the ice trays with lids to store the food (I don't remember the brand and I can't find it on Amazon anymore). I used my regular blender for pureeing foods.

Bibs - My sister had brought me some bibs from a $ store in Halifax and they have worked excellently. I don't know the brand or anything but they're super easy to clean and I've gotten every stain out of them.

Boppy - I never used mine much for anything. It just never worked for me.

Bathing & Grooming (bath seats, tubs, baby shampoo, nasal aspirators, nail clippers, etc.)

Baby tubs - I got the First Years Newborn and Toddler Tub. This worked really great for us. We have another tub but my ILs (can't remember the brand) and that's been good too.

Baby Shampoo - I use Aveeno Baby Bath and Shampoo and this works great on Amara's hair. I've never used anything else

Nasal Aspirator - This was extremely useful in the first few months.

Nail Clippers - I use these but I'm not 100% happy but I don't think it's the fault of the clippers itself. I find that Amara's nails are still quite sharp after I've clipped them. I've tried using a nail file but I just can't seem to get either to work perfectly.

Skin care - Amara has eczema so I've been using Aveeno Baby Daily Moisture Lotion to moisturize her skin. This has worked well and has helped me reduce the amount of flare-ups she used to have. If she has a major flare-up then I use the cream from the dermatologist.

Insect Repellent - I live in the tropics so we have the mosquitos, sand flies, etc. I started using the Johnson and Johnson insect repellent from around 8 months of age and it's been working great so far.

Hair Care - I use an 100% pure olive oil and occasionally I use a product called Miss Jessies Baby Buttercreme for added moisture.

TOYS!

Activity devices (bouncer, swing, play mat, jumperoo, jumpers, bumbo)

Bight Start Bouncer - We used and it was really useful in the first few months. I swapped out the toys and used the more colorful ones from her baby gym/play mat.

Tiny Love Gymini Play mat - We used the . This was excellent for when Amara started reaching at things. She really loved this.

Skip Hop Foam Play Mat - Our home is completely tiles so this worked wonderfully when Amara started moving around.

Summer Infant Playard - This works great in the living room to keep Amara away from the TV/Entertainment Center now that she's standing, stepping around and touching everything.

Amara loved pretty much all her Tiny Love toys but now she's really into her ... stacking ball and Leap Frog Learn and Groove Musical Table.

Never used a jumper, jumperoo or bumbo.

Other
There's so much more but I have to stop now.

[*krista*]

*bookmarking* You ladies are awesome.

[fromGirltoMommy]

This will probably take me a year to fully do!

Travel (carseats, strollers, etc.)
I got a travelsystem. And I LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE love it!! Its so easy to get her in and out of the car. Yes the carseat is like friggin 20lbs with her in it, but its much easier (at least to me) to just unsnap the seat from the base than having to wake her up and unbuckle her..esp in this cold weather! I even got one of those things that go over the carseat, she really doesnt need to wear a coat cuz it keeps her sooooo snuggly warm!! Its wonderful.

As for other strollers for older kids..havent gotten to that point yet.

Sleeping (cribs, sheet savers, bassinets, swaddles, pack n play, etc.)
I got a crib, and a pnp. I only got a crib bc we share a room. If our situation was different I would have gotten a bassinet for my room cuz Im not comfortable without her in my room right now. I like her being that close.

I LOVE my pnp its set up downstairs. I have one that has a changing station and a bassinet addons. I only used the bassinet for the first week for her sleeping at night, bc I wasnt allowed to be going up and down stairs for the first week. But you would not believe how much I use the pnp. Every changing just about during the day its used. I hardly ever not use it. But I got a changing table up in my room, and Ive used it MAYBE 20 times. Even if I do change her up in my room I lay her on my bed..

Now for sleeping at night, she is swaddled. I got her the swaddleme blanket and I love it!! I got a fleece one so she wears light pjs and she is soooooooo warm. Even a couple nights we had horrible nights where it took me 3 hours to get her to sleep and she would only be wearing a onesies..I got her in the mornign and she was sooooo warm. She doesnt even need pjs in it!! And I dont worry about her cuz she doesnt move. Shes been sleeping through the night since she was 6 weeks old!

Nursing & Eating (breast pumps, bottles, niplpe products , making own food, highchairs, bibs, ect.)
Now as far as breast pumps, I got the cheap $40 electric and then I got a cheap $20 mannual pump. Both of them work great for me and I have NO issue with them. Their both Evenflo and I LOVE them!

For the first 2 months of nursing Kennedi was using a nipple shield (we had really bad nipple confusion bc of the hospital so we used that) we were using a medela one and it was 20mm. It was a smaller size for her, the standard size was too bigg for her!

Bottles were using Evenflo Comfort Select. I love them. My cousin recommended them to me, and I just love them. Kennedi rarely gets bottles, once a week when her father comes for visits but I do love these bottles for them. She really never has gas so I cant say if they reduce it or not but the box says that there supposed to.

We have our highchair up already. Its a Safety 1st one, I looked around and made sure that it would recline and had a basket under the chair so I could store bibs, burp cloths and such. We set ours up about a month ago. It was getting to the point where anytime I was eating she was screaming in the swing or where ever she was! So put it went and now she soundly sits with us during dinner and plays with a toy in her lap while we eat!

In the beginning we were going through a TON of bibs and clothes. The bib wasnt keeping her dry. So for the first month we only used bibs with plastic backing. They were awesome and saved alot of clothes. Now we use whatever bib, and let me tell you that is the bulk of my laundry for her. All bibs! Her drooling is just out of control! So to me the more bibs the merrier!


Bathing & Grooming (bath seats, tubs, baby shampoo, nasal aspirators, nail clippers, etc.)
Now tubs. I believe the one I got is a Summer..umm not sure of the name but its a infant to toddler tub. I love it. It came with an instert to go over the tub part like a hamack. That worked great for like a month but she got too heavy for that. Theres a plastic bar in the bottom and her butt was resting on it, didnt seem comfortable to me so I got a foam thing to go over the hamack! Its a complicated bathing situation, but it works GREAT for us!

For shampoo we just use the J&J baby kind. My aunt works at J&J so she can get us the stuff at a cheaper price, and I LOVE the way Kennedis hair smells! For wash we were using just the plain ole J&J head to toe wash, but now Ive switched to the bedtime bath wash, and OMG Im in love with that stuff! It smells soooooooooooooo great!

I LOVE LOVE LOVE the nasal aspirator!! We took it from the hospital and have used it soooooooo much. Kennedi had her first cold about a month ago, and it was such a great help. She would actually just lay there for me cuz it would help her so much.

I have yet to clip her nails. I do have clippers but I think shes too little to do that. It scares the crud outta me. So I just peel them when shes nursing or I file them.

TOYS!

Activity devices (bouncer, swing, play mat, jumperoo, jumpers, bumbo)
Bouncer..I got one. I got it used off craigslist for $15 and Im glad I did cuz Ive barely used it. She slept in it when I went overnight at my aunts for a night, but thats really been the most shes used it. She just doesnt like it..well I used it alot more when she had her cold cuz it would keep her more upright. Easier for her to breath.

She has always loved the swing. I got a graco one, I think it was like $100. Its awesome. It has 6 different speeds and it has either classical music or nature sounds. She still goes in it during the day for certain naps.

OMG the play mat is AWESOME. Kennedi is much happier on the floor "talking" to her "guys" (hanging toys) than she EVER is in your arms. The child LOVES that thing. I keep telling her shes gonna get a flat head if she doesnt start sitting up more! I really cant say enough about the play mat its awesome, I love it and so does she!!

Bumbo. I got one. I wasnt going to spend $40 for the thing. I mean its FOAM! I would look around. I got mine at a garage sale for $2!! Couldnt pass that deal up! Were just starting to use it cuz shes really just starting to get good head control. So I wont rave about it, but Im sure in another month I will be!

Other
We got one present that is aewsome!! Its a book that cloth but the inside makes all sorts of crinkle noises its so colorful and bright. Kennedi LOVES it!! It will hold her attention for at least a half hour. Its her favorite toy!! I really wish I knew who got it for her cuz she loves it soooo much I want to thank them! But I would totally recommend a book like that for anyones little one!

Travel (carseats, strollers, etc.)

Car Seats -
I have the Graco SafeSeat. I like it! We had to try out a bunch of different ones at Babies R Us and ended up being really picky about it, so I suggest you get your hands on one and practice putting it into a stroller, carrying it, latching it, etc.
I also have the same convertible seat as Mari. It is huge! We haven't used it yet

Strollers -
We have the snap and go, and that plus the Graco seat = super easy combo. It is very light, very maneuverable, and I like it a lot.
We also have a Maclaren Techno XLR. That sucker was a gift from my FIL. I really like it. It is maneuverable, light, and comes with a newborn attachment, a rain cover, and a way to attach you infant seat too. Plus, it looks GOOD!

Carriers/Slings -
Jack is JUST getting used to his Ergo and Moby, praise God! I still intend to get my butt to the fabric store and make myself another wrap like Fiona showed me. I just ordered another one too - a Becco I think.

Other -
We have this insert and liked it for when Jack was teeny
Now we use this one b/c the one that comes with his infant carseat is crapola


Sleeping (cribs, sheet savers, bassinets, swaddles, pack n play, etc.)

Crib/Co-sleeper -
We use the Arms Reach co-sleeper still and I love it. I don't want to transition him to his crib, but we will be at the first of next year *sigh*
Our crib is a drop side. After the recall I flipped out and bought one with no movable parts. I plan on selling the other. So if you have reservations about drop-sides, just get the other kind and save yourself some worry and money

Sheet savers -
I use a lot of cloth diapers and small waterproof pads under Jack's head when he is sleeping. But I have all sorts of burp cloths and waterproof pads in all sizes. I have used them all for various things, but I recommend you just buy what you need when you find you need it. A mattress pad is a must though. I also like the large waterproof pads, and small ones. One to lay baby on (or to lay under the sheets) and one for their spit-up.

Swaddles -
Loved the miracle wrap until he started always escaping and then outgrew it. Also love the Kiddopotamus SwaddleMe. When he was itty bitty we just used receiving blankets though. I love receiving blankets. We have lots of flannel and thermal ones and have used them for all sorts of things, and keep some in the car.

Pack n Play -
A must for grandma's house!

Nursing & Eating (breast pumps, bottles, niplpe products , making own food, highchairs, bibs, ect.)

Breast Pump -
Medela Pump in Style is great. I also got a cheapo hands-free boobie thingy, but it creeps me out, lol. I also had a Medela Harmony manual pump I used at first and I liked that one too, but we ended up going full electric b/c I was too squeamish to really pump it myself and get lots of milk out. I am weird in that pumping creeps me out.

Bottles -
I have the Playtex drop-ins, and their pump adapter system where you can pump straight into their bottle bags (here it is). I really like it, but I'm sure the other brands are great too. We have never had nipple confusion or anything either.

Pacifiers -
Jack uses MAM. I completely disagree with whoever said that giving a paci early on causes problems. Never caused us a one, and early on babies NEED to suck. Now, Jack uses one just as he falls asleep, and that's mostly it. Sometimes not even then. Although he went through a phase where he spat up a ton right after eating so we used them then so he wouldn't starve (and consequently have tons of photos with his paci in since we seemed to always take photos right after he ate). I followed the Happiest Baby on the Block, and that dude is on the money.

Boppy/Nursing Stool -
Nursing stool rocks. Boppy sucks. Well, ok, the boppy has other uses but I hated nursing with it.


Bathing & Grooming (bath seats, tubs, baby shampoo, nasal aspirators, nail clippers, etc.)

Get rid of boogers -
Best Invention Ever. Combine with baby nasal drops that you can find at Target, Babies R Us, etc.

Shampoo/Lotion -
We use Aveeno and I love the way it smells. I ordered some Burts Bees shampoo and I thought it smelled terrible, but I love and use their apricot oil in his bath.

Clippers -
We have an orange Safety First one and I use it all the time and like a lot. It is easy to control and clip while he is squirming. Jack's nails are insane. Also get some baby emory boards. And baby Q tips. His ears are so waxy! The kid needs a lot of grooming I also have a toothbrush kit I am going to start using, a hairbrush, and a comb. the comb is great for preventing or treating cradle cap.

Cream -
We use this Triple Cream and it works well. Jack had a spot of Eczema on his forehead for weeks, we started using this 3 times a day and it was gone in a day!

TOYS!

Love Haba, Lamaze, Black and White books, Cloth books, and teethers for first toys.The FP Rainforest Soother is a great "toy" too. Jack has always loved it, and it is a great distraction during diaper time or sleep time. The motion and music are both slow and very pleasing to baby and mom. The fish makes bubbles and they used to fascinate Jack.

Oh yes, and this little seahorse was his favorite for awhile. It was great when he was falling asleep. Babies love that ambient glow - I think it reminds them of how light looked when they were in the womb. Love it!


Activity devices (bouncer, swing, play mat, jumperoo, jumpers, bumbo)

Bouncer -
We have this one. We like it, and Jack likes the stuffed toys it comes with. Although the bar isn't exactly reachable by a younger baby sitting in the seat so we never used it. 2 of the songs are good, the rest not so much, lol. We also have a boppy newborn one that was a hand me down. That one is ok too

Jumperoo -
We have this and Jack hated it. I plan on bringing it back out now that he is older though. I'll update then!

Playmat -
We have this and I love it! It isn't too crazy, and doesn't have all these noisy/flashing parts. The butterfly has lights that are slow and it is motion activated, but it can be turned off or removed. It is really cute, portable and Jack liked the toys it came with.

Bumbo -
I like it, but for the first 4 months Jack hated it, and starting around month 5 he figured out how to flip himself out of it. Sooo, I guess he likes it, to a point, then - Watch out!

Other

Thermometer -
I have used lots of crap ones. What I ended up using are this ear one, and then this rectal one for redundancy. I never could get consistent info on when/if ear ones are ok for babies, but rectal ones always are. Either way, I am covered, and the ear one I have used on myself, so it's alll goood.

Diapers -
Cloth - Honestly, pre folds were easy for both DH and I. Cloth wipes are great too. I either make my own solution or use water with the wipes. I used those booty bits whatever and didn't care for them. I use this diaper cream that is CD safe, and it works very well. We still have the same tube and it is nowhere near gone (CDing helps with that too though!) Blueberry makes adorable pocket diapers for newborns if you want to splurge. Kissaluvs were ok, but kind of rough. Still, we used them a lot. Also, we love Little Lions fitted. He still uses these in a bigger size and they are easy and absorb well (and they are CHEAP!) I really like our cotton and pul covers.

Wool (covers)-
LOVE them. BUT BE WARNED - read how to care for wool several times before washing any wool covers. I didn't, and ruined mine by scrubbing the heck out of them. SO DUMB! I knew better - I blame post preggo brain. Ugh. I am finally going to buy some more. Thank goodness my Aristocrat cover was unharmed though. I love that thing.

Clothes -
If you are anything like me, WATCH OUT for those stoopid sleepers that only snap down one leg instead of both. Then you end up having to bend their other enclosed leg & wedging it to get it into/out of the sleeper. Jack kicks up a storm when I change him, and it can be nearly impossible to do this without feeling like I will break his leg. I should throw them out.