Juniper’s first birthday is right around the corner. This year went by so fast and yet incredibly slow at times. Being first-time parents, we have learned a lot and are better for it.

Coming into this adventure we had no idea of what we would actually “need” and what would make our lives easier. There are so many baby products available and it can be daunting entering a new season of life. And internet resources presented to help prepare you for parenthood are mostly trying to get your money.

So at the conclusion of year 1 here are my suggestions of what we found incredibly useful. I understand that everyone is a bit different and what worked for us may not work for you (for instance we were gung-ho about cloth diapering based on a recommendation, but when push came to shove the convenience of Honest diapers outweighed the cost).

Things we loved:

1. Solly Baby Wrap (newborn – 6 months) then a Maya ring sling (6+ months)
2. Honest diapers and wipes
3. NaturSutten pacifiers with a leather clip (we lost too many early on)
4. Sweet Sleep (book)
5. Zebi organic swaddle blankets (she’s a summer baby so swaddling in lightweight was perfect)
6. Sopie the Giraffe
7. Chicco 360 Hook on high chair (we have limited space so not adding a bulky high chair was nice)
8. Back seat car mirror
9. White Onesies
10. Ikea baby gym

Things we did without:

1. Video Monitor
2. Diaper genie (or pail)
3. Wipe warmer
4. Scratch mittens

Things we had but didn’t need:

1. Bassinet
2. Summer Infant SwaddleMe adjustable infant wrap
3. Mobile
4. Boppy

What are some of your favorite products? What could you live without?

 
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