Best pack & play for daily use? Advice on baby gear for a new aunt/sitter? :)

klynnedesigns · October 2013

I'm going to be watching my newborn niece while my sister finishes her senior year of HS. I don't have any children of my own, so I'm a little lost with all of the baby gear that's out right now. I am trying to figure out what my best options would be in a pack & play. I'd love to get something really comfortable for the baby, but I don't know if I need all the "add on" things I see on many of the pricier models. I'm going to be watching her every weekday through June so I'd like something sturdy that will hold up. I've been looking at the InGenuity Washable Play Yard with Dream Centre. Any suggestions?

I'd also love any suggestions you would have for other things I may want to purchase to keep at my house that would make life more convenient. I'm trying to keep it budget friendly as my sister really doesn't have the funds for extra baby gear, so I'll be purchasing everything that she needs while she's here. I was thinking extra blankets, a few extra bottles, diapers, wipes, ect? I don't want to go overboard which is so easy to do - but I want this to be a smooth transition for all of us

. I really appreciate the advice!

LittleApple · October 2013

The basic Graco Pack n Play is all you will need and it won't break the bank

https://www.amazon.com/Graco-Pack-Travel-Playard-Green/dp/B005UV0UEA

ebp913 · October 2013

LittleApple said:

The basic Graco Pack n Play is all you will need and it won't break the bank

https://www.amazon.com/Graco-Pack-Travel-Playard-Green/dp/B005UV0UEA

That. All the other junk they come with is unnecessary.

FmrAFBrat · October 2013

My mom has the Graco Tot Block & I have this one:

https://www.buybuybaby.com/1/1/4815-playards-delta-fun-time-playard.html

I have one with all of the stuff but after 3 months it was a waste. I have a finished basement and live in an area where we have severe weather at times so I also use it as a sleeping area so the larger weight limit/space/stability was a must have for me. I would get that one or the Tot Block since the square design will be able to be used for a longer period of time.

LittleFish1 · October 2013

Would wait on the diapers and wipes until you know if there is a specific brand used (and then you know the size) since some babies are sensitive to certain brands.

Agree about burp cloths (can be made from old tshirts), extra sheet or two (make sure it is the right dimension though) and you might want something like a Rock N Play for putting the baby down into for the first 3 months.

You already have blankets that can be used for tummy time.

You might consider a mom's group - or see if you have friends already in one. They will sell (or loan) some of the items you are looking for as families move from infancy to the next stage.

klynnedesigns · October 2013

Thanks guys!!! I checked out a bunch of models at babies r us and target. I think I'm going with the basic graco pack n play recommended above. I opted out of the ones with changing areas and nap centers. I picked up a boppy pillow from target bc there was a 5 off coupon. I think that combo should be ok for now hopefully!! I'm a RN and I'm currently not working and doing my RN to BSN coursework online so it just worked out that I'd be able to help out. I'm so excited!!!

orangecurls · October 2013

Honestly, I wouldn't buy much. She may get lots and lots of hand me downs or gifts from family and friends. And baby might be very particular about brands of bottles, diapers or wipes. For me I would consider some sort of baby carrier, like a moby wrap, mei tai or structured carrier like an ergo. Or a bouncer or swing. You can get these at consignment stores for pretty cheap.

cpmich · October 2013

The Fisher Price Rock N Play Sleeper was a lifesaver for us. Our child hated the pack n play, but would happily nap in the rock n play. Plus, it was portable enough to drag into the kitchen, laundry, bedroom, etc if I just needed to put our son down for a few minutes to do some chores and he was happy because he could see me.

klynnedesigns · October 2013

Orangecurls - I definitely hear what you're saying. Unfortunately she doesn't have much for baby besides what I've purchased for her and what her immediate family has provided. I know she's using Dr. Brown bottles for now b/c they are what she requested and what I bought for her. I'm thinking I'll just get a 3 pack and leave 2 here and give her the other one so she has more at home. I will check out a consignment store if I happen across one. For now I've been trying to shop the sales. I really appreciate the thoughts and advice!!