There’s so much you don’t know before welcoming a baby into the world—especially when it comes to the endless list of products you think you need versus what you actually end up using. At four months in, I finally feel like I’ve found our daily essentials. Some products we use constantly, while others didn’t quite make the cut. Here are my top 15 favorite baby items that have become true game-changers in our routine:

1. Dr. Brown’s Glass Anti-Colic Baby Bottles
These bottles have been a lifesaver. The anti-colic design helps reduce gas and fussiness, making feeding time so much smoother for both of us. We started with the smaller 4oz size for the first 4 months, now we’re onto the bigger 8oz bottles.

2. Momcozy V1 Pump
I die for this pump. I actually bought two to have at home in case one stops working or in case I wanted to try both and see which one I liked better. I never even opened my Spectra 2 pump because I loved this one so much. It’s hospital grade and is portable, which we all love. Whether at home or on the go, this pump is easy to use and incredibly efficient. Unfortunately, it’s been sold out for months, but if you happen to catch it back in stock, it’s a definite buy!

3. Doona Stroller and Uppa Baby Stroller with Bassinet
The Doona stroller is hands-down the most convenient stroller for basically everything. It transforms from car seat to stroller in seconds, so no separate car seat needed. Bridge and I loved using it with my niece so we knew we needed it for our babe too. We use it constantly for errands and outings.
I ended up buying the Uppa Baby Vista 2 with bassinet because our neighborhood has bumpy, cobblestone sidewalks and the Doona wheels are plastic and honestly not the smoothest ride when it comes to that. We wanted something with more heavy-duty wheels to absorb all the shocks, and this one is perfect for that. It’s super smooth, quality is top notch, and the large basket underneath can carry a lot—a full-size diaper bag and our wiener dog when she gets tired walking lol. I didn’t think we’d use the bassinet attachment but it ended up being a lifesaver for the first 3 months. Now that Hayes has outgrown the length of that, we just switched to the toddler seat— comes with both attachments, which is nice.

4. Keekaroo Changing Table
Once you experience your first blowout, you’ll realize how nice it is to be able to wipe this clean in 2 seconds. This changing table is a must have. We also use this Warmie stuffed animal for extra head comfort. It’s heatable and lavender scented 🙂

5. Munchkin Diaper Wipe Warmer
Wipe warmer is a necessity!

6. Ubbi Steel Diaper Pail
Another NECESSITY. This diaper pail locks in odors and is so easy to use. I don’t know what we’d do without it.

7. Nanit Floor Stand Baby Camera
Peace of mind with this baby camera. We used it first with our niece and now with Hayesie. The clarity and monitoring features have been a huge help in tracking sleep and keeping an eye on him while he sleeps.

8. Baby Brezza Bottle Warmer
Again, we used this bottle warmer so many times with our niece and we loved it, so bought it ourselves! Works great.

9. Lovevery Subscription
My MIL gifted us this, and it’s been so helpful introducing new things to our daily routine. Every box is filled with developmentally appropriate toys and activities that have kept Hayes entertained and engaged. Just when we’re starting to get bored with certain toys/items, another box is sent. This is also where he got his mirror he looks into during tummy time.

10. Medela Hand Pump and Breast Milk Storage Solution Kit
This hand pump in particular is great for quick sessions or when I need to pump before a feed since I have a rapid let down and that always makes it easier on Hayes to nurse. We use the milk bottles (storage solution kit) everyday in the fridge. It’s nice because they have twisting labeling lids that make it super easy to know when the milk was put in the fridge.

11. Hatch Sound Machine and Portable Sound Machine
We use the wave setting every night and nap. on the Sound Machine in Hayes’ room, and the portable version is perfect for naps on the go. The ‘shush’ setting was a lifesaver when we were out and about or needed to get him to sleep.

12. Frida Baby Nose Sucker and Oogie Bear Booger Remover
OK, I have to admit, I was scared to use this snot sucker at first but the fear went away after the first nose suck. Not glamorous but absolutely necessary! I also love the booger remover tool for boogies that are closer to making their way out. These tools are gentle and effective for keeping his little nose clear.

13. Artipoppe Carrier and Bumpsuit Baby Carrier
Both carriers are incredibly comfortable, and I would recommend either. They’ve made it easy on walks or wherever we take him to be hands-free. Linked my Artipoppe carrier here and my Bumpsuit carrier here.

14. Bibs, Binkies, and Blankeys
Our go-to bibs, these are the best pacifiers for Hayes, and this plush blanket is a constant companion wherever we go. Love them all!

15. Inflatable Bear Chair
Obsessed is an understatement. This bear chair folds flat (which makes it perfect for travel) and we use it everywhere—whether it’s at the dining table so Hayes can sit while we eat dinner, in the yard, and especially for “magic carpet rides” around the house, see here lol. I started using around 3 ish months when he could keep his head up for the most part. We didn’t keep him in here long, just 5-10 minutes usually.

For more of my Baby Favorites, head to my Amazon Storefront where I save all my products we currently use.


Welcome! I’m Rachael.

I enjoy sharing my love for food and fitness. I'm a registered dietitian, certified personal trainer, and a New York Times Bestselling author. Here you'll find all kinds of recipes and kitchen hacks, as well as workouts and fitness motivation. Enjoy! — xx Rachael

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