Old Navy Maternity Yoga Pants. Maternity pants and I didn’t have a good working relationship the first two go-arounds. Regardless of the type of panel, it seemed the pants would never stay in place and inevitably were either too tight or too big. Thankfully, in my third pregnancy I discovered these babies—and there has been no turning back! These are my go-to, perfect-fit-no-matter-what-size-I-am pants.
Boppy Pillow. I’m always a fan of items that can serve double duty and, boy, does this one deliver! My Boppy got a workout before Baby even made his debut, serving as a pregnancy sleep pillow and after delivery, as a perfect seat. It served its intended purposes as a feeding and infant support pillow thereafter.
Burt’s Bees Bath Wash. There’s nothing sweeter than that “fresh baby” smell, especially when it’s enhanced by the familiar scent of traditional baby wash. However, after reading several articles that connected phthalates, a compound used in conventional soaps, with baby boy reproductive complications, it was enough for me to seek a natural baby wash and this one delivers!
Bob Revolution Stroller. I can’t claim to be an expert on much, but let’s just say I know a thing or two about strollers (we’ve gone through seven!!!). A Bob costs a serious chunk of change, but for good reason. With shocks better than our family car, turn-on-a-dime maneuverability and a dual width that still fits through standard doorways, it was well worth the investment.
Moby Wrap. There’s a learning curve to putting this on, but once you get the hang of it, this is a life saver! The Moby can be worn in multiple positions (front, back, side and with baby outward-facing or forward-facing), and because the stretchy fabric distributes the weight evenly on your body, it’s by far the most comfortable carrier on the market.
Fisher Price Rainforest Open-Top Cradle Swing. Twelve (non-annoying!) songs with relaxing nature sounds, six speeds, reclining positions, a plug-in option that saves a ton of batteries within its lifetime and two swing options (back-and-forth or side-to-side) make this product a winner in my book. Our unit has served us faithfully with two little ones and is still going strong in time for #3!
Fisher Price Rainforest Jumperoo. Why purchase a jumper and an exersaucer individually when you can get both in an all-in-one device? This multi-tasking product has three height adjustment settings to grow with your baby, an interactive table with colorful toys, lights, music, nature sounds and a spinning seat that let’s your little one take in the world around him.
Lauren Greenlee has figured out her favorite baby products through much trial and error. Five years and two (almost three) children later, these items are faithful companions during her babies’ first years . She writes from her home in Olathe.