1.
Boon Bottle Warmer - I love the small, simple design of this appliance, which can heat everything from bottles, to jars of food.
2.
My Brest Friend - My boss originally used a different pillow, but this version provided better support for both her arms and the baby's body. It's not as travel friendly, but her back and neck appreciated the update.
3.
Medela Pumping Bra - This bra frees up your hands, so you can work while pumping. You definitely resemble a fembot from
Austin Powers, but it's essential for being able to multitask throughout the day.
4.
4Moms Mamaroo - This powered bouncer was the only thing Toby would sleep in, for more than an hour, during the first month. The five movement settings, along with Bluetooth connectivity, lets you change the motion from your phone, which became a favorite feature.
5.
Sleep Sheep - I assumed I'd need complete silence for the kids to sleep, but they prefer low, consistent sounds (i.e. the vacuum cleaner, washing machine, dishwasher). This cute toy puts out several white noise options (their faves are the heart beat and whales), and always soothes them.
6.
Medela Quick Clean Bags - Sterilizing certain pieces of equipment often requires boiling them in water for 5-10 minutes, but these reusable bags let you steam everything in a microwave in just three minutes.
7.
Honest Company Bundle Subscription - Disposable diapers create a huge amount of landfill waste and while we tried several ecologically friendly brands, the price point and quality of these products were simply the best. Plus, seeing Toby in a cute print diaper kills me every time.
8.
Bugaboo Cameleon 3 Stroller - There are a ton of stroller options and you need to get the one that works best for you, but for us, this model is perfect. It's so versatile and well designed and love that it will grow with him. Plus rolls so easily, it makes me wish my car was as smooth.
9.
Summer Infant Swaddle Me - This swaddle changed our lives, because it's what helped Toby start sleeping through the night. Best. Purchase. Ever.
10.
BABYBJORN Carrier One - Just like strollers, there are several carriers that most people use, but this model works well for us. It distributes the weight perfectly around your hips and shoulders, to relieve any strain and the mesh fabric creates a little air flow, so you and the baby don't overheat.
11.
Soothe Probiotics - Thankfully Toby wasn't a very colicky baby, but our doctor recommended adding these probiotics to her bottles, to provide some help with digestion. They work exactly as advertised and supply additional benefits he didn't get from breast milk alone.
12.
Dr. Brown's BPA Free Bottles with
Preemie Nipples - Toby was a voracious eater and could power through a bottle in a few minutes, which used to result in hiccups and gas. A lactation consult had us change to these bottles and a premie nipple, to reduce the air flow and slow down the amount of food he could pull. The end result was better feedings and a lot of restful naps.
13.
Burt's Bees Burp Cloths - All burp cloths are pretty much the same, but these organic cotton versions are super absorbent, which is the most important feature.
14.
4moms Infant Tub - This is definitely G's favorite device, since he usually gives the boys their baths. The digital thermometer ensures your water is the perfect temperature and the design provides a comfortable and safe seat for the baby to lean against. It fits in most sinks and has side drains, so the baby doesn't have to sit in dirty water.
15.
Happiest Baby On The Block DVD - Most new parents hear about this video before giving birth, but the five tips that are showcased really do help calm a baby. I was skeptical at first, but watching Toby go from crying hysterically to falling asleep within seconds made me a believer.
