Must Haves! Products I loved during my daughter’s first year

Now that I’ve been there, done that; I wanted to post about the products that helped me through my first year of (unplanned) parenthood

Kennedy's bassinet

I personal had Kennedy sleeping by my side for far too long…. like 8 months too long, so a bassinet was key in my sleeping sitch.  I started with a cheap bassinet from BabiesRUS. It had the option to roll or rock manually and a basket on the bottom. It was VERY basic and only costed about $20! It worked for me until Kennedy started sitting up. At that time I moved her into a hand-me-down pack and play.  Both options worked for me and gave me the most bang for my buck.

BUT if I had a do over, I think I would spring the money and try out a HALO Bassinest Swivel Sleeper. This bad boy looks like the Cadillac of co-sleeping. I’ve also heard great reviews, check this one out for more info (Breastfeeding Needs). 

Second, every mom needs somewhere for baby to hang out while they sleep a million hours a day, such as a bouncer. A bouncer is great to keep baby close while still getting things done, like the dishes and laundry. My bouncer was a hand-me-down and worked just fine.  I would suggest making sure it has a vibration option or some type of movement. Check out these ones: Fisher-Price Deluxe Bouncer - My Little Snugapuppy, Fisher-Price® Bouncer - Geometric Meadow. 

Now the little bit of time your baby is awake it will be eating.  Feeding is different for every mom, but whether you're breast or bottle feeding you will need bottles. My daughter and I had a hard time breastfeeding (that story is for a later blog), so I spent a lot of time pumping and bottle feeding.  My favorite bottle that was easy to heat up and helped eliminate gas was: Playtex Baby Nurser With Drop-Ins Liners. These bottles help eliminate air that upsets your little ones belly and the bottle would heat up fast when placed in hot water, a lot faster than a plastic bottle would.  I LOVED THESE BOTTLES. 

Also for all my breastfeeding mommas out there: get a good breast pump! My insurance provided me with a Medela pump and I loved it. I got a second one, so I had one in my bedroom and living room. The Pump in Style with the On-The-Go Tote is amazing. It makes for easy transport and storage of all your parts. You can check it out here: Medela at Target.

Next, get a stroller you love! I originally had one that I hated (I'll get to that more in my next blog) and was miserable. Now I have this beauty: Baby Trend Expedition RG Jogger in Moonstruck

Baby Trend Expedition RG Jogger

It was simple to put together, easy to fold up, and rides so smooth. I love the large wheels that don't get caught up and the basket underneath has ample storage. It also has two cup holders and a small storage area for your phone or other accessories.  

Finally, we all know that diapers and wipes are necessary, but honestly I didn't have a favorite brand. Luckily Kennedy didn't have any reactions or sensitive skin, so I always tried to buy off brands to save money.  I like Wal-Mart's Parent Choice brand.  Their diapers have the wetness indicator like pampers but are affordable.  Their wipes work just fine, they are thick and smell nice.  Don't waste money on name brand products if not necessary! Save it up, because as these babies grow they get more and more expensive :)