Being a second time mom, I’ve learned that not all baby products are truly necessary. When I was pregnant with my first son, I literally wanted all the things; we had two pack n plays! Now don’t get me wrong, this was over five years ago, and the baby business has really grown and there are some pretty snazzy stuff on the market. But I’ve learned that not everything is necessary to have, especially when they won’t be using it very long. Below I’ve outlined my top 10 must haves for baby, and some are tried and true from experience with my first.

1. Aquaphor Baby Healing Ointment

This stuff is seriously the bee's knees of diaper rash creams. When Luke was first born he was pooping meconium for what seemed like non stop, and we all know that stuff STICKS. So by the time we had made it home from the hospital, he had developed a rash. I googled the best diaper rash creams and this was rated the best, so we decided to give it a try. We haven't used anything else since! It really is the best!!

2. Angelcare Baby Bath Support

This I discovered with my second baby, and it is amazing. We had started with a blooming bath and used that for a couple months, but I wish I would have had this from day one. This is used in the tub and it cradles the baby so perfectly. It's not cumbersome and you can hang it to dry. The blooming bath in my opinion didn’t fit well in my sink, and it was really obnoxious to have to ring out the water (and that thing HOLDS water) and then have to throw it in the dryer every time. We do a bath every night as part of our bedtime routine and this seat has been super helpful with a slippery, wet, baby.  

3. Freshly Picked Diaper Bag

This was a splurge item from my mom, and let me tell you, it's the best diaper bag I have ever used. It can be worn as a backpack, tote, handle, or cross body. The inside compartment is so big, but when closed it isn’t bulky. I love that it doesn’t scream diaper bag, and is so sleek and stylish. There are many bottle pockets on the inside, a few zippered pockets, and comes with a matching changing pad. I love that the top stays wide and open, when trying to rummage around. Definitely recommend!

4. Plain White Onesies

There is nothing better than a baby in a fresh, simple, plain white onesie. Trust me! They go with everything, and you can typically find a pack of 5 that are relatively inexpensive. With all the cute baby clothes out there, I always come back to white onesies. We have long sleeve, short sleeve, and sleeveless types.

5. Nose Frida

I’m sure everyone has heard of this, gross, intriguing, magical device by now, but I had to add it to my list. I swear by this when baby is sick and congested. And let's face it, there is no way around baby getting their first cold. When that happens, you’ll do just about anything to help them get some relief. Bulb nose syringes are nothing compared to this. I started using the Nose Frida with my first son and I’ve continued with Luke.  . 

6. Fisher Price Rock and Play Sleeper

I used this with my first son, and it’s been a life saver even with my second. I don’t know what it is, but both my kids have slept so good in this thing. It cradles their body and keeps them at just the right angle. It doesn't take up much room, so it was perfect to keep bedside with me.

7. Sakura Bloom Ring Sling

Another item that I wish I would have started using sooner. I love baby wearing, and I didn’t do it with my first son. A ring sling is so easy to use, easy to get on and off, and convenient to pack. They don't have tons of fabric like wraps do, so you don't have to put it on beforehand. I keep mine in the car and we use this when running errands or shopping. This brand is the only one I’ve used, and they make some great quality slings. Definitely recommend investing in quality for something that will be holding your sweet babe.  

8. Mam Anti Colic Bottles  

Luke's doctor recommended these bottles when he was smaller and he had a case of reflux. As soon as we started using them that issue went away, and he hardly ever spits up. They are so easy to take apart and wash, and no special brushes needed to clean valves and such. Great bottles!

9. Aden + Anais Swaddle Blankets 

I definitely suggest swaddling babies, it helps them fall asleep, stay asleep, and sleep for longer. Aden and Anais make not only beautiful swaddles, but high quality ones. They are perfect for swaddling babies and once you’ve moved past that stage, they can be used for so much more. They are great for clean up, laying out on the floor, light weight for a nursing cover, or as a burp cloth. We always have one packed in our diaper bag and it always comes in handy.  

10. Mam Pacifiers  

My second mam product, but they make some great stuff. I know there are some people out there who will disagree with me, but I’m pro pacifier usage, which I quickly learned with my first son. When he was born he cried our entire hospital stay, until the last day they asked if we would like to try a pacifier to calm him down long enough to do his hearing test. Can you guess what happened?! Instantly stopped crying and he fell asleep. I was sold! For some reason, both my boys took to these pacifiers above all the others we tried, and I feel like we tried a lot. 

So there you have it, if you're wanting to get just true essentials for your babe, these are the top 10 I would recommend. These products are not sponsored, just my honest opinion about baby items we love. Hope anyone of these become useful for you and your babe. Thanks for reading!