Life Down West

I wanted to make a post about the baby products that I have used since the newborn days to 18 months later. I remember how excited I was when I was pregnant to create my own baby registry. I looked at countless Tik Toks of other women detailing what they actually used off there registry. I ended up using those videos to help me create my own registry so I’m excited to share my picks!

When I was building my registry, I remember seeing other people have over 200+ things on their list, which to me is wild. There is so much marketing around baby products that guilt you into needing their product in order to be a “better” mom, but in reality you don’t end up using a lot of the stuff. Here are my top 10 Baby Registry Gifts we are still using 18 months later.

1. Sound Machine

First on the list is our trusty sound machine. We ended up going with the MomCozy one because it does not require a subscription and it was substantially cheaper then the Hatch. I have heard mixed reviews on the charge of the machine but we always leave ours plugged in so no issues there for us. We have used this thing from day 1 and still use it today. I love the light feature, that you tap on and off, and the white noise. You can also control it on your phone which is great.

I also wanted to add a bonus sound machine, a travel sound machine. We did not end up using this until we started going out more but it is great for vacations or the car so I would recommend. We use the one below.

2. Grooming Kit

I actually did not have a grooming kit on my registry but was gifted one. I think this kit is underrated. We have the Tomme Tippee one but I can’t seem to find it in the US as we were gifted this in Ireland, but I linked a similar kit. This is great because it comes with so much. A comb, brush, nail clippers, and the thermometer are all essential. We did use the electric nail file in the newborn days but then we ended up switching to the nail clippers, and it was so much easier. Also, the thermometer is important because in the early days if baby has a fever the doctor will usually ask for a rectal temperature so having one on hand is great.

3. Bath Thermometer

I know it might seem silly but we actually still use our bath thermometer everyday. It just gives me peace of mind knowing how hot the water is and making sure I get the perfect temperature every time.

4. Ear Thermometer

Please take it from me to invest in a quality ear thermometer. This one by Braun is great. I didn’t want to spend the money so bought a forehead thermometer and we had the thermometer from the grooming kit. The forehead was not accurate and the digital thermometer took so long to read. It is worth it to invest in a good ear thermometer. Don’t cheap out like I did and waste your money, just buy the good one from the start. Your sanity and baby will thank me later.

5. Room Thermometer

Can you see there is a trend here? Yes, clearly I like thermometers. I really liked having a room thermometer for the nursery. I was terrified of SIDS and always wanted to make sure I had the correct Tog ratio for the sleep sacks so baby would not overheat. I can do a post later about Tog ratings and sleep sacks. This is super cheap and gives me peace of mind. I still use it to determine what sleep sack to put my toddler in.

6. Bath Towel / Washcloths

I saw some moms saying baby towels are not worth it when you can just use a normal towel. I understand the point but I just love these towels. We have been using them since the newborn days. Now, my toddler loves it especially the elephant one. It’s just adorable and fun. We still use ours everyday.

Along the same lines. We still use these washcloths everyday for baths. Especially for sensitive skin, these are great and just so soft.

7. Burp Cloths

I’m sorry but you just can’t have too many burp cloths. We went through so so many during the early days with a reflux baby, but also use them all the time on my toddler. Wiping my toddler’s face is always a challenge especially with sensitive skin, so we always use these cloths with warm water. It’s a must have.

8. Cooler Bag

We have used this thing so much I’m surprised it’s still in one piece. With a difficult breastfeeding journey, this came in handy so much for pumped milk. We also still use it now for snacks and lunch for our baby to keep things cold. Perfect for travel and on the go. It can even be used for adult drinks at the beach.

9. Books

I have linked this before because it is our favorite. Books are so important for a baby’s development and they just can’t have too many. We have been reading this from the newborn days till now and it is my toddler’s favorite book.

10. Baby Monitor

I saved this one for last because I don’t have a link. We got our monitor from a baby market for one euro. It’s not fancy or shiny but it’s perfect and works great for us. I did not like the wifi option and knew I just wanted a camera and monitor so nothing could be hacked. I’ve just heard too many creepy stories out there.

That is to say with so many products circulating, you can really find great second hand options. Check out FB marketplace or see if there are any baby markets near you. The newest and best will not make you a “better” mom. All a baby needs is the bare essentials and love, the rest is a bonus.