Get your ducks in Row: Useful items for baby

My Little Buggy

As a first time mom I looked for traps and they were everywhere, from little trinkets to big purchases.  I was determined to not crowd my "cozy" NYC apartment. My realtor took creative liberty with that description. I'm almost certain that somewhere in suburbia my apartment is actually someone's walk in closet.  So with limited space and a refusal to become a hoarder of all things baby I was deliberate with my purchases. Here are a few things I’ve found to be especially helpful.

Baby Carrier:  Such a necessity especially for city living. You are nimble and agile, like a ninja, as you peruse the grocery aisles with your baby in tow. And if the ninja comparison doesn't excite you, carriers are also great for bonding with baby. But the key is choosing a carrier that provides adequate back support. As little as 9lbs can feel like a ton if your back isn't properly supported.

And those who purchase a carrier should know when to retire that carrier. So you ask, when is a good time? If your baby’s feet hang below your knees and they can pass you your latte and collect change from the clerk at Starbucks, it’s time to retire your carrier. Please don’t be that person, it’s not all in your head, we are staring at you and, yes, we are judging too. 

Sippy cups and pacifier clips:  If your baby happens to drop either of these items in your home, no big deal, but on a sidewalk, subway platform, or even a public bathroom while they are on the changing table, yuck. Those items will need to be tossed. There is not enough sanitizing in the world. I would rather Buggy lick a petri dish. Actually I would not, just threw that in for dramatic effect but you get my point. Sippy cup and pacifier clips thankfully avoid any of these gross scenarios.

Formula dispenser:  For those who are not breast feeding this item is great when on the go or for late night feedings. Simply fill bottle with water and fill each slot of the dispenser with the measured amount of powdered formula. Add the contents to bottle when baby is ready to feed. Simple but genius.  

Sleep Sack:  This ensures your baby is snug and warm throughout the night. I found this especially useful when Buggy was just a few months old. Once he could crawl and stand I opted for footsie pajamas.

Sleep gowns:  Make for easy diaper changing during the night, I especially like the ones with attached mittens, ideal for newborns.  Searching for loose mittens in the laundry is like searching for loose socks, give up, you will never find the match, there is a trap door in every dryer. And it is for this reason I prefer a sleep gown with attached mittens.

Diaper Bag:  This seems like a no brainer but keep in mind organization is key. Repeat after me, style should never replace function. Hopefully you can find a bag that marries the two but if not choose function. If your little one is screaming for a snack and you're fumbling to find the spoon for the applesauce your fashionable bag will be of little consolation for the headache you’ve given yourself. Ideally, your bag should be large enough to comfortably fit baby essentials and some extras. There should be several accessible compartments that allow for separation of items. An added bonus are long straps because you can hang the bag from the stroller handles. The bag is accessible, there is no weight on your shoulders, not a worry in the world as you cruise with baby and drink your latte..

Do you have something to add? Share your thoughts.