Pro Tips: Baby Products Design-Loving Parents Need

When it comes to baby gear, there's an overwhelming amount of things to consider and since most of my friends do not have kids yet, I've been pretty clueless about figuring out where to start. To that end, I tapped Cricket's Circle creator, Rachel Blumenthal, to provide some professional guidance. She's not only a mom herself, but makes her living making recommendations for parents-to-be (Rachel was once a clueless newbie who now educates, edits and curates the best baby stuff out there based on parents' lifestyles). Here are fourteen products she recommends, most of which that I've added to my must-buy list.

Cloud B Sleep Sheep "Part stuffed animal, part sound machine, this is a favorite of new parents. Traveling tip: remove the soundbox from the sheep for a small on-the-go sound machine."

DwellStudio Mid-Century Crib "We love DwellStudio for its mid-century modern sensibility, coupled with the fact that this crib is as safe and functional as it is chic, it's no wonder you see this one in the homes of design enthusiasts."

Naturepedic Organic Crib Mattress "Your baby will log countless hours sleeping in her crib (well, fingers crossed!), so you want to be sure the mattress isn't giving off toxic fumes. We love this one for its dual-stage option (use for baby and toddler) and high quality. Plus it's lightweight, so changing sheets is a cinch."

Aden + Anais Dream Blanket "Cozy and breathable, this blanket is perfect for taking baby home from the hospital, long walks, and cuddling at home."

Nuna Pipa Infant Car Seat "We heart this new kid on the block that’s Oeko-Tex® certified. It's super lightweight, making it easy to carry around and has a dream drape for napping and shielding from sun."

Ergo Organic Baby Carrier "For hikes, maneuvering the farmers' market, and getting stuff done around the house, this is the only way to go."

Baby Jogger City Mini "We love this lightweight deluxe stroller for its versatility - durable for everyday use and easy to collapse and maneuver for travel."

Summer Infant Bath Sponge "Perfect for those sponge baths in the kitchen sink in the early days, it prevents slipping and is soft and comfy for the baby, easing a new moms nerves."

Little Giraffe Chenille Hooded Towel "There’s nothing quite as luxurious as Little Giraffe’s chenille towel. And nothing cuter than a clean baby in said towel after a bath."

California Baby 2-in-1 Shampoo and Bodywash "We love the ease of a pump, so your other hand can be on the baby. Plus, this one is organic, safe, and sulfate-free."