@ashleaf2018 honestly, I'm comfortable with anything besides a car seat used. We had lots of stuff handed down to us (crib included) and I purchased some things used locally like my Boppy and PnP. I'd say just use your best judgement. If a stroller or crib or whatever looks sketchy or cheap, don't get it. if you haven't already, check to see if there are local children's swap sites on Facebook for you to join. You can often find loads of great deals on essentials there.
As a FTM, I love posts like this (why I started just one on pregnancy buys for moms!).
We will be getting some stuff handed down from my SIL, so that will be nice. Off the top of my head, it'll be stuff like a PNP, RNP, some exer-saucers, floor play mats, and for sure a high chair. I am sure there may be other stuff, and we are very grateful. She's already given us some bottles and a drying rack (they were just going to donate anyway), and a few other things... so it's a start. After we know all of that, I would like to register - even if it's just for the discount!
I know they plan on taking our guest bed (used to be SIL's) to use for their oldest so we may take his crib. He currently has a convertible bed. But, I know they had to do some funky stuff with it, as he went from a crib, to a crib with just the mattress on the floor (he was a runner), and now just a toddler bed. So, I may just say we'll get that new. Plus, I think my in-laws already said they'd buy us one (they bought the crib for the 2 other siblings), so that works.
Me: 37 years old
DH: 39 years old
Married: October 17, 2014 TTC Since: November 2015 BFP: March 31, 2016 DS: November 21, 2016
December'16 December Siggy Challenge: Elf on the Shelf Fails **winner**
*A swing or bouncer *Swaddle blankets- I used them for everything, nursing cover, tummy time mat, etc *travel system *multiple water proof mattress covers and sheets *gripe water and gas drops *side snap shirts until the umbilical cord falls off *skull caps *o ball *baby banana tooth brush- Best. Teether. Ever. *white noise machine *play gym. My kid was obsessed and would lie there for half an hour watching the lights and batting at things *multiple changing pad covers *bathtub of some sort *those old cloth diapers from Gerber. They make the BEST burp clothes plus they're super cheap *a lovey of some sort, those stuffed animal heads with blankets attached worked for him initially *sensitive skin lotion- we love Aveeno, honest company, and babyganics. He reacted badly to Johnson's too. Plus one bottle of shampoo/lotion/whatever has lasted us six months so spending more isn't a bad thing. *Triple Paste is the best diaper rash cream there ever was. Seriously invest in it *stuff for you too mama! Especially if you're nursing- nipple balm, soothing ice pack things, nursing pads... *the Boon lawn drying rack thing. It's super cute on your counter and is awesome for drying wine glasses and bottles. *Velcro swaddlers or miracle blankets if baby can break out of the swaddlers. Miracle blankets have little tubes for their arms to go into so they can't move them. I think I'm going to put some arms up swaddlers on mine this time around though. *Baby carrier- I loved the moby with my first, but tying it will be a pain with a toddler, so I think ring sling this time around. *Free and clear laundry soap. You don't need dreft, any free and clear detergent works fine *No scratch mittens *baby nail files or scissors since using clippers is hard on an itty bity. *Nose frieda
These are such great tips! Wondering if any STMs have any input on things that are okay to get used and what things really need to be bought new? Obviously crib, car seat, and stroller will be new just to ensure that they meet safety guidelines and that the carseat hasn't been in an accident and won't expire, just wanted to see if y'all recommend getting anything else new rather than used.
I got the rockaroo and my glider used. Both from Craigslist. I paid $80 for the rockaroo which was basically brand new and $75 for my glider which also was in pretty great condition.
I just read someone posted Triple Paste (diaper rash paste) - and it is amazing. Especially if your LO gets a rash, it helps he's so fast! Seriously!
Also, diaper bag backpack!!! The one strap diaper bags end up killing your shoulder and neck. I learned my lesson by the time I had #2. In fact, I just use a nice backpack that we got from Costco, $20!
Look up used kids stores in your area, I found one that I LOVE! I trade in old stuff of mine for store credit regularly. The only thing I really like new is the car seat, because you never know. Unless it's from a friend, then go for it! But be warned, car seats get gross.
I love the backpacks so much. I felt like my hands were free and I didn't have to mess with a bag between my body and arms. I think for #2, we will use just a regular backpack since our diaper bag pack is small for 2 kiddos.
We love our Keekaroo Peanut Changing Pad. There is no cloth, so you can just use a baby wipe on it when they inevitably pee or poop on it. Not the cheapest thing, but even my husband loves it. If you are thinking that you just want a lightweight stroller I'd suggest getting one that has a handle that is a bar so you can push it with one hand easily, as opposed to a typical umbrella stroller where there is a separate handle for each hand (does that make sense?). I never thought about this until after using a cheap umbrella stroller we bought for a vacation. I also really like the Bumkins long sleeve bibs for when the baby is older. Once my son was eating solids he started pulling his regular bibs off, but doesn't pull the long sleeve bibs off. We registered for a typical high chair but still haven't used it. We are still in our small apartment, so we bought a $20 high chair from IKEA. It's very easy to take places as well if we are going to a friend's or family members.
Also, not sure if you plan on breastfeeding, but call your insurance company beforehand about a breast pump. They usually won't send one until close to your due date, but it's good to have before the baby arrives in case you run into problems. If you get a medela, lots of hospitals use medela as well and you can get some spare parts at the hospital if you need to pump there. I got a hand pump as well as some, extra storage bottles and membranes. My son wouldn't nurse so it was helpful to have this all ready for me when I got home. I didn't expect to have problems. I'm also bringing this up because I was in a Buy Buy Baby a few months back and someone who was registering was talking to an employee about breast pumps and accessories and I'm not sure if she knew they are covered by insurance now. I'm sure the store employee knew. I wanted to say something but didn't feel it was appropriate.
Our bouncy chair was a lifesaver for our daughter. That was the first thing she'd let us put her in (without being on us.) She also loved her swing. We have a co-sleeper bassinet since she didn't want to sleep in her crib until she was 4 months old. And we eventually inherited a rock n play from my sister in law- but we didn't really need it, however it was a nice addition.
The rock n play for my sister in law was a blessing, as her son had acid reflux issues and it helped him sleep better.
I also 2'nd the aden and anais blankets and the halo sleep sacks.
I think different size bottles worked well too.
I fully intended on breast feeding and did so for a bit, but had complications with it and ended up using it. It's good to have a few for backup or for when you pump (if applicable.)
Also those baby activity mats where they can swat on things are really helpful and the baby mirrors. These helped with tummy time. I started tummy time day 1 of being home and she always felt comfortable on her stomach.
Since our babies are going to be born in winter, hats are helpful for keeping their heads warm.
I registered for different washes and such- i knew my daughter would have sensitive skin (as I do) and she ended up having just that. Burt's bees wash worked on her, but she couldn't use the all natural lotion I bought her (different brand). So i'd get some trial sized stuff to see what works.
Infant bath tub is another very useful thing to add to a registry, as well as some super soft baby towels (regular towels can be too big).
Some simple books would be helpful too- I started reading to my daughter right away and I think my voice comforted her.
Also put some things on there that you can use 3-6 months from there- teething toys, toys, spoons, sippy cups, etc... You'll need them eventually, so if people would rather get you more 'interactive' toys, it gives them options.
That was me with the triple paste! It's so worth the money. I second teething toys, various sippy cups, and plastic plates and stuff. My ds didn't love taking a bottle so he was on a trainer sippy cup by five months, exclusively by six months. And that'll come up on you quickly. Those spoons that change color when the food is too hot is a waste of money. If you can't stick your finger in the food to test how hot it is, reevaluate yourself lol.
Plates and bowls that stick to the high chair are awesome and so are the toys you can get that stick. Baby can join you at meal times and not get bored. Various types of teether a and teething gel too in case you have an early teether. Get the baby banana toothbrush, and then some of the teethers you can stick in the fridge. Those mesh feeders are nice too where you stick in the fresh or frozen fruit and baby can gnaw on them. They're a pita to clean though. Boon makes better ones.
Here's a question. I've heard plenty of people say that bottle warmers are a waste, but then on the other side I've had people say that when it's early in the morning, it's better to have a bottle warmer that gets it toasty in a few minutes vs. waiting for water to boil. Is it just personal preference, or is there validity to either argument?
Here's a question. I've heard plenty of people say that bottle warmers are a waste, but then on the other side I've had people say that when it's early in the morning, it's better to have a bottle warmer that gets it toasty in a few minutes vs. waiting for water to boil. Is it just personal preference, or is there validity to either argument?
I have found L's 6 oz bottles take 30 seconds in the microwave before mixing in the formula. So the entire bottle is ready in maybe 90 seconds.
I have no idea about pumped bottles. L had them as soon as I pumped, or they were warned at daycare.
Formerly known as Kate08young August '18 Siggy April Showers:
Me: 28 H: 24 Married: 7/22/14 Baby L: 8/4/2015 August 2015 Moms Baby E: 11/18/2016 December 2016 Moms TTC #3 08/2017 BFP 11/27/2017. Twin B lost 11/22/2017, Twin A doing well.
Here's a question. I've heard plenty of people say that bottle warmers are a waste, but then on the other side I've had people say that when it's early in the morning, it's better to have a bottle warmer that gets it toasty in a few minutes vs. waiting for water to boil. Is it just personal preference, or is there validity to either argument?
I say a waste. Not only does it just seem like an unnecessary appliance, but not all babies need super warm bottles, and I'm not into heating up the plastic bottle itself. BPA isn't the only plasticizer with human health impacts...
@slartybartfast Thanks for bringing up the BPA and similar materials. I had been thinking about that (as we try to avoid those materials ourselves), but how do you warm up milk without the bottle, assuming you didn't directly pump and feed? I'm a n00b!
@dmontgo I only have experience with pumped milk, not formula, but we would thaw a frozen bag of pumped milk in a warm water bath. Both my babes would drink at room temp, then later on they were fine to drink cold milk. edit, for ps- you can't nuke breastmilk
@dmontgo - I would defrost frozen breastmilk in the fridge or in warm water from the sink.... I'm pretty sure the daycare warmed it but we didn't use a warmer at home. DS was fine with room temp or even cold milk - he was just hungry Also, I've always heard bottles aren't supposed to be microwaved bc it can warm unevenly and there can be pockets of really hot milk you may not realize
I did just what @zubenescamaliand @jennbaylor12said. Unfortunately DS was pretty picky with temps so we had to get it pretty warm but not warmer than the water from the sink could do.
@dmontgo - I pumped so every feed was from a bottle. We never warmed. We would let it get to room temperature. I wasn't comfortable microwaving the plastic, BPA free or not. I considered glass bottles this time around until we found out we were having twinsies. Too expensive for two.
@DiFazette How often are you supposed to pump? Did you ever pump in advance so DH could help with feeding, or is it better to supplement with formula? I'd like DH to be able help with feeding if possible. Any suggestions?
@DiFazette How often are you supposed to pump? Did you ever pump in advance so DH could help with feeding, or is it better to supplement with formula? I'd like DH to be able help with feeding if possible. Any suggestions?
So this was all a bit complicated for us - and I'm also sort of questioning how to approach it again this time. Not the expressed milk v. formula part - we'll definitely go all breastmilk for as long as feasible... but the bottle part. I'll have to go back to work at some point so baby will need to take a bottle. With DS he took a bottle fine in the beginning but then just started refusing it. I wasn't consistent throughout though so I'm thinking we may need to do one bottle a day regardless (which is kind of a hassle) to keep him used to it.
As for pumping at first, that'll depend on your supply. Generally milk comes in with over supply and then adjusts to meet your baby's need. I used that opportunity to build a nice big freezer stash and will do that again, so I'd breastfeed and then pump off excess. It kept my supply higher than necessarily needed but that was okay with me... I figured it'd just help me lose baby weight! (which I found for me to be easier said than done).
I say maybe the biggest thing to keep in a plan is to meet with a lactation consultant the moment you have questions after the baby is born. They can really help you come up with a plan to manage nursing and supply in a way that meets baby's needs and mama's needs (like the need for breaks!).
You can also take a breastfeeding class before hand - i didn't but I've heard they're super helpful. Also, side note, for those first few months, when my supply was raging, when I would go out mountain biking or something (often a 3+ hour endevour) I had a hand pump with me. It worked awesome until the last few months when my supply dropped after we introduced food. Then I needed more power to get milk out.
@DiFazette How often are you supposed to pump? Did you ever pump in advance so DH could help with feeding, or is it better to supplement with formula? I'd like DH to be able help with feeding if possible. Any suggestions?
@dmontgo - Initally I pumped every 2-3 hours. DS was a preemie so he was given formula ASAP since he was IUGR and was missing nutrients his last few weeks on the inside. I pumped every 3 hours for 8 months with little exception. My supply wasn't great enough that I got to stockpile, so I stayed a pump or two ahead of every feeding. Pumping is a great way to have DH help with feedings. It's not recommended they eat from a bottle until a certain age due to nipple confusion, but IMO that's a bit of fear mongering from the Breast is Best side.
Plenty of people like @slartybartfast have an over abundance of supply, and plenty of people are like me who didn't. There is no guarantee/magic formula either way. Now being that DS was NEVER successfully on the breast is something that impacted my supply. You produce and have a greater letdown through nursing rather than pumping. I also may have struggled with supply due to having DS very early, and having severe medical conditions of my own which needed a mouthful of meds every few hours. Also, supply isn't usually wonderful when you have a baby in the NICU.
Pumping is is a beast, but it's wonderful if used supplementally so signifigant others can feed, or you can get outside of the house as a couple/own your own and someone else can feed. To create the best supply though, nursing with supplemental pumps is the way to go IMO.
You ladies are awesome--I appreciate all of the information. I have no close by friends that have had kids so I don't have many people I can ask for advice!
Fwiw, my pedi and ob told me not to pump until 6 weeks to not create an over supply or cause the baby to have nipple confusion. It's common for a baby to not want to nurse anymore because it's easier to feed from a bottle as the milk flows more freely and they don't have to work as hard for it. So I didn't pump until then and DH helped out with nursing in other ways- getting me water/snacks, getting the nursing pillow ready, burping him after I was done nursing, getting burp cloths, etc. Plus, it's a billion times easier to just put a boob in the kid's mouth motn instead of making a bottle. I had friends that put coolers next to the rocking chair that held milk and formula and stuff and they'd make the bottle there instead of in the kitchen, and that helped them, but not all babies will drink cold milk. You have to get up and pump in the middle of the night during the feeding that dh would be doing anyway or your body goes, "oh, we don't need to make milk at this time anymore so we won't" and your supply takes a hit.
I also had issues with supply for all three babies. So I would BF, and then pump every two hours or so. My first had awful reflux so I was pretty much glued to a either the baby or a pump for several months. Breastmilk going to waste made me cry on the occasion that it happened. I definitely recommend a hospital grade pump for those who will be using one. My second was too "lazy" to BF so I fed her exclusively pumped milk for 8 months. My third was a combo of BF, pumped milk, and formula. Every baby is different!
Re: REGISTRY MUST HAVES!
I'd say just use your best judgement. If a stroller or crib or whatever looks sketchy or cheap, don't get it.
if you haven't already, check to see if there are local children's swap sites on Facebook for you to join. You can often find loads of great deals on essentials there.
We will be getting some stuff handed down from my SIL, so that will be nice. Off the top of my head, it'll be stuff like a PNP, RNP, some exer-saucers, floor play mats, and for sure a high chair. I am sure there may be other stuff, and we are very grateful. She's already given us some bottles and a drying rack (they were just going to donate anyway), and a few other things... so it's a start. After we know all of that, I would like to register - even if it's just for the discount!
I know they plan on taking our guest bed (used to be SIL's) to use for their oldest so we may take his crib. He currently has a convertible bed. But, I know they had to do some funky stuff with it, as he went from a crib, to a crib with just the mattress on the floor (he was a runner), and now just a toddler bed. So, I may just say we'll get that new. Plus, I think my in-laws already said they'd buy us one (they bought the crib for the 2 other siblings), so that works.
TTC Since: November 2015
BFP: March 31, 2016
DS: November 21, 2016
*Swaddle blankets- I used them for everything, nursing cover, tummy time mat, etc
*travel system
*multiple water proof mattress covers and sheets
*gripe water and gas drops
*side snap shirts until the umbilical cord falls off
*skull caps
*o ball
*baby banana tooth brush- Best. Teether. Ever.
*white noise machine
*play gym. My kid was obsessed and would lie there for half an hour watching the lights and batting at things
*multiple changing pad covers
*bathtub of some sort
*those old cloth diapers from Gerber. They make the BEST burp clothes plus they're super cheap
*a lovey of some sort, those stuffed animal heads with blankets attached worked for him initially
*sensitive skin lotion- we love Aveeno, honest company, and babyganics. He reacted badly to Johnson's too. Plus one bottle of shampoo/lotion/whatever has lasted us six months so spending more isn't a bad thing.
*Triple Paste is the best diaper rash cream there ever was. Seriously invest in it
*stuff for you too mama! Especially if you're nursing- nipple balm, soothing ice pack things, nursing pads...
*the Boon lawn drying rack thing. It's super cute on your counter and is awesome for drying wine glasses and bottles.
*Velcro swaddlers or miracle blankets if baby can break out of the swaddlers. Miracle blankets have little tubes for their arms to go into so they can't move them. I think I'm going to put some arms up swaddlers on mine this time around though.
*Baby carrier- I loved the moby with my first, but tying it will be a pain with a toddler, so I think ring sling this time around.
*Free and clear laundry soap. You don't need dreft, any free and clear detergent works fine
*No scratch mittens
*baby nail files or scissors since using clippers is hard on an itty bity.
*Nose frieda
Also, diaper bag backpack!!! The one strap diaper bags end up killing your shoulder and neck. I learned my lesson by the time I had #2. In fact, I just use a nice backpack that we got from Costco, $20!
Look up used kids stores in your area, I found one that I LOVE! I trade in old stuff of mine for store credit regularly. The only thing I really like new is the car seat, because you never know. Unless it's from a friend, then go for it! But be warned, car seats get gross.
Also, not sure if you plan on breastfeeding, but call your insurance company beforehand about a breast pump. They usually won't send one until close to your due date, but it's good to have before the baby arrives in case you run into problems. If you get a medela, lots of hospitals use medela as well and you can get some spare parts at the hospital if you need to pump there. I got a hand pump as well as some, extra storage bottles and membranes. My son wouldn't nurse so it was helpful to have this all ready for me when I got home. I didn't expect to have problems. I'm also bringing this up because I was in a Buy Buy Baby a few months back and someone who was registering was talking to an employee about breast pumps and accessories and I'm not sure if she knew they are covered by insurance now. I'm sure the store employee knew. I wanted to say something but didn't feel it was appropriate.
The rock n play for my sister in law was a blessing, as her son had acid reflux issues and it helped him sleep better.
I also 2'nd the aden and anais blankets and the halo sleep sacks.
I think different size bottles worked well too.
I fully intended on breast feeding and did so for a bit, but had complications with it and ended up using it. It's good to have a few for backup or for when you pump (if applicable.)
Also those baby activity mats where they can swat on things are really helpful and the baby mirrors. These helped with tummy time. I started tummy time day 1 of being home and she always felt comfortable on her stomach.
Since our babies are going to be born in winter, hats are helpful for keeping their heads warm.
I registered for different washes and such- i knew my daughter would have sensitive skin (as I do) and she ended up having just that. Burt's bees wash worked on her, but she couldn't use the all natural lotion I bought her (different brand). So i'd get some trial sized stuff to see what works.
Infant bath tub is another very useful thing to add to a registry, as well as some super soft baby towels (regular towels can be too big).
Some simple books would be helpful too- I started reading to my daughter right away and I think my voice comforted her.
Also put some things on there that you can use 3-6 months from there- teething toys, toys, spoons, sippy cups, etc... You'll need them eventually, so if people would rather get you more 'interactive' toys, it gives them options.
Hope that helped.
BFP#1 & MC:August 2015 BFP: #2 10/01/2015 MC: 10/09/2015 BFP #3: 12/22/2015 @ 5 weeks MC/CP: 12-23-2015
Fertility Appointment: Feb 23/16, Hysteroscopy 03/02/2016,
BFP #4: 03/31/16 EDD 12/01/2016
Plates and bowls that stick to the high chair are awesome and so are the toys you can get that stick. Baby can join you at meal times and not get bored. Various types of teether a and teething gel too in case you have an early teether. Get the baby banana toothbrush, and then some of the teethers you can stick in the fridge. Those mesh feeders are nice too where you stick in the fresh or frozen fruit and baby can gnaw on them. They're a pita to clean though. Boon makes better ones.
Formerly known as Kate08young
August '18 Siggy April Showers:
Married: 7/22/14
Baby L: 8/4/2015 August 2015 Moms
Baby E: 11/18/2016 December 2016 Moms
TTC #3 08/2017 BFP 11/27/2017.
Twin B lost 11/22/2017, Twin A doing well.
edit, for ps- you can't nuke breastmilk
My Wedding Bio!
As for pumping at first, that'll depend on your supply. Generally milk comes in with over supply and then adjusts to meet your baby's need. I used that opportunity to build a nice big freezer stash and will do that again, so I'd breastfeed and then pump off excess. It kept my supply higher than necessarily needed but that was okay with me... I figured it'd just help me lose baby weight! (which I found for me to be easier said than done).
I say maybe the biggest thing to keep in a plan is to meet with a lactation consultant the moment you have questions after the baby is born. They can really help you come up with a plan to manage nursing and supply in a way that meets baby's needs and mama's needs (like the need for breaks!).
Also, side note, for those first few months, when my supply was raging, when I would go out mountain biking or something (often a 3+ hour endevour) I had a hand pump with me. It worked awesome until the last few months when my supply dropped after we introduced food. Then I needed more power to get milk out.
Plenty of people like @slartybartfast have an over abundance of supply, and plenty of people are like me who didn't. There is no guarantee/magic formula either way. Now being that DS was NEVER successfully on the breast is something that impacted my supply. You produce and have a greater letdown through nursing rather than pumping. I also may have struggled with supply due to having DS very early, and having severe medical conditions of my own which needed a mouthful of meds every few hours. Also, supply isn't usually wonderful when you have a baby in the NICU.
Pumping is is a beast, but it's wonderful if used supplementally so signifigant others can feed, or you can get outside of the house as a couple/own your own and someone else can feed. To create the best supply though, nursing with supplemental pumps is the way to go IMO.
My second was too "lazy" to BF so I fed her exclusively pumped milk for 8 months.
My third was a combo of BF, pumped milk, and formula.
Every baby is different!