Since it had been almost six years since Gavin had been a baby I was searching high and low to make sure I had everything I needed this time around and knew exactly what would work the best to make the most of our time and money. Now that Sawyer is six weeks old I thought I’d share what products have made those weeks easier for us.
Sleeping Arrangements
The Fisher-Price Deluxe Rock n’ Play Lightweight Plush Sleeper was one I was told about but for some reason didn’t believe. I had more mom’s tell me this product was a MUST have but with no bells or whistles I just didn’t understand it. Then it came in and it is by far the most used and loved product for Sawyer by all in the family. It had helped me keep what little sanity I have left. He loves sitting in it both awake and asleep. It’s super easy to fold up and take with you so it travels all over my house from upstairs to downstairs. Near the sink when I do dishes and right next to my bed at night when we sleep. Sawyer has been diagnosed with reflux and I believe the angle of it makes him feel better too!
Out & About
I know that the Peg Perego Switch Four Modular System is on the pricey side but I understand it all now. I have never used a smoother easier to use travel system. If you can’t afford the full system I would highly recommend buying at least the car seat and stroller base. There is no more fighting with car seat straps and fussing over getting the perfect fit. It’s as simple as a pull to tighten or a button push to loosen on the car seat and the stroller is so easily maneuverable with one hand when you have a baby that insists on being held.
I have about ten different diaper bags to choose from through reviews over the years but this JJ Cole Satchel Diaper Bag won. It’s big and roomy and still pretty to tote around. I can fit everything I need in it and there are more pockets than I know what to do with.
Even with all my choices my runner-up and bag I will hand over to anyone who watches Sawyer {because I love my satchel too much to share!} will be using the JJ Cole Mode Diaper Tote Bag. It’s not as big as the Satchel but can hold all of baby’s basic needs and has lots of pockets to organize it well. It’s stylish and durable and I’m not worried about the abuse others might put it through.
Diaper Duty
I have a complete diaper changing station in Sawyer’s room but let’s face it more than half his changes are down downstairs in my living room. To keep myself from running back and forth for everything I need, I keep a second changing pad tucked behind the couch and my Munchkin Sarabear Portable Diaper Caddy. I won’t lie when I was first asked to review it I was worried its large size would be a deterrent but it was actually a bonus. The extra space allowed for a spare outfit and bath supplies. Since I’m bathing at the kitchen sink it’s only fitting I’m not running up and down for those as well.
Safety First
Gone are the days of the monitor that you have to sit there and hold your breath to try to listen to the sounds coming through and make out what they are and if you need to investigate. The Summer Infant Baby Touch Digital Color Video Monitor is the coolest monitor I have ever seen! I was concerned with feeling overwhelmed learning how to use it but it’s really out of the box friendly. I love that I can tuck it in my back pocket and carry it all around with me while doing chores.
I also like that the camera can move around so I can move the angle perfectly to him and if I need to I can even zoom in! I LOVE being able to use it in talk back ‘walkie talkie’ mode so I don’t have to come running just to say something.
With all the weight issues for Sawyer in the beginning I wouldn’t have made it breast-feeding through the first week with the help of my Medela Freestyle Breast Pump. If you’re planning on purchasing this pump (or any pump) make sure to also grab some spare parts and a hands free bra.
Squeaky Clean
I love this the 4moms Cleanwater Collection Tub for so many reasons. Now I have the older version (blue tub) so I imagine this one rocks even more! I love how it perfectly rests in my kitchen sink where it’s easiest to wash a new baby. It can still go on the counter or in a tub but I feel much safer on how it fits IN my sink.
The thermometer sensor is my favorite feature as I can tell the moment the water is too cold or hot. There are several different plugs in the tub so I can even change how ‘deep’ I want the water which I like too.
Capture It
Ok, so this isn’t exactly a baby item but it’s one item that I made sure to have from the start and well, I am SO glad I’ve had it. My photos have been so much more spectacular. Picking the right DSLR option was so stressful for me since it really was an expensive purchase. In the end an awesome reader found the Canon EOS Rebel T3 12.2 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera and DIGIC 4 Imaging (Body)I wanted at an amazing price that I couldn’t refuse. That along with the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II Camera Lens and I have the photos I have 🙂 Seriously one of the BEST purchases I’ve made! (To read all about my camera and what I use & own click here)
I have the Sarabear Portable Diaper Caddy and I love it! It’s not too overwhelmingly big but big enough where you can fit a variety of supplies in there. It keeps everything organizing and within arms reach (and it’s portable) so it’s great to have!
That travel system looks AMAZING! A car seat and stroller are one thing we haven’t bought yet. They are pricey and so it makes it hard to decide what we want. Maybe someone will just give it to us at our baby shower 🙂
I have been trying to talk my hubby into a good camera like yours for a long time now. I still can’t get him to give in. If you see a great price on one in the future spread the news. I am dying to be in the cool kids club and get great pictures of this baby that will make his appearance in June!
I love the look of the sleeper. When my 4th baby was born the only place he would sleep was in our bed or in our arms (and we are not fans of cosleeping). I think with baby #5 I need to convince hubby that we need this Fisher Price sleeper =)
great products- i love the security items!!
Yes, these are definitely some great products. Thanks for the list!!
A good camera is an absolute MUST for the first 6 weeks – and beyond! I’d trade a crib, bouncy seat, stroller, swing – all of those things – for a camera. 🙂
Also, I really love our video monitor. We still use one in our older daughters’ room as well (they are 3 and 5). It’s so nice to be able to “peek in on them” throughout the night.
I love all these products mentioned but I really like the baby monitor. I really appreciate you suggesting these great products.