baby products we’re using the second time around

You know what’s tricky with first time pregnancy? You get a TON of advice and tips, but you really have to figure out for yourself what works and what doesn’t. It’s a big trial-and-error process. But then, isn’t parenthood in general?

Pregnancy is different this time around, in some ways that are more challenging. But one thing I’m feeling better about is having a better idea of what to expect this time. I remember adding items to our registry list, thinking, “Is this going to work for us? Is this what we want?”

This time we have a list of things that we are definitely opting to use again. (And added bonus of having another boy: we get to pull out all our cute baby boy clothes again! Win!)

So, for the first-time mamas out there, I thought it might be helpful to share baby products we’re using the second time around. It’s helpful to know what was successful for someone else. But even still, I have to give the disclaimer: what worked for us may not work for you. Every baby is different, every situation is different. You just never know. Anyway here are some things that worked great for us:

– Rock n’ Play – This served as a perfect bassinet for us, sitting right next to the bed, as well as an easy, portable place to sit our little guy as we brought him with us around the house, or even when we travelled.

– Boppy Pillow – I opted to go the breastfeeding route, and this pillow was such a help. Plus it did double duty in acting as a support for my oldest as he practiced tummy time and sitting up. (It never goes in the crib, though! Just so you know!)

– Muslin Swaddles – Speaking of double (or triple or multiple) duty: these things are amazing. They’re blankets, they’re swaddlers, they make a great carseat or nursing cover, they can act as burp cloths or changing pad covers. Amazing.

– Clothes with Easy Nursing Access – Since we did choose to go the breastfeeding route, I stocked up on nursing bras, tanks and clothes that made it easy to nurse. I’m glad I have some I can pull out again this time.

– A Backpack Diaper Bag – It’s something I wish I’d had since the beginning. Because hands-free is the way to be! Seriously. You can check mine out here – it’s a convertible bag, it’s leather, and it doesn’t actually look like a diaper bag. All things that make it a winner in my book.

– Video Monitor – Also something I wish we’d had since the beginning. Every noise sounds terrifying over a video-less baby monitor (it’s the stuff of horror movies, people), but a video makes it easier to check and make sure everything is okay. Plus it’s like the Baby Channel, which is always fun to watch.

Can I reiterate the whole “clothes with easy nursing access” thing? Because the last thing you want with a screaming, hungry baby on your lap is to be tangled under a million layers.

Milk and Baby sent me this awesome new nursing dress to try. It’s comfy, and makes nursing super easy and accessible, without having to completely disrobe. They have lots of great options at Milk and Baby, plus matching “mommy and me” clothes, and clothes that work great even when you’re pregnant. Plus this dress is definitely going in my hospital bag, because it’s gorgeous and will look beautiful for when we take pictures!

What are some baby products you love? First time or any time? If you’re not a mom, which ones have you heard about?

Thank you to Milk and Baby for sponsoring this post. All opinions are my own.