@cgss11 we use them. However, when we had ours inspected (our city holds free car seat inspection days twice a year) they said it's never recommended to use anything that doesn't cone with the seat, even if it's the same brand.
@cgss11 we use them. However, when we had ours inspected (our city holds free car seat inspection days twice a year) they said it's never recommended to use anything that doesn't cone with the seat, even if it's the same brand.
This. I use them and it helps a lot when potty training, so if they have an accident it isn't all over your seats as well. I never used them with an infant seat, only with the convertible seats
I just scored the Baby Trend Sit and Stand from a Facebook mom swap page I belong to, or $50. The mom I bought it from used it once and it's in excellent condition. My Britax infant car seat even fits into it so I'll be using it with my LO and my 2 year old. We tested it out with my son and 4 year old niece this past weekend and it's awesome! I recommend it if anyone's looking for a good double stroller!
Just FYI - I've been DYING to buy a mamaroo - glad I didn't. A coworker w/ a newborn said that was an overpriced waste because the baby doesnt really care for it and probably wouldn't know a difference between the mamaroo and a regular swing.
Met DH - 9/2003
Dating - 9/18/2012
Married - 8/16/2014
NTNP - 7/2014-5/2015
TTC #1 - 5/2015 (CP October @ 4w2d)
*PCOS/Hypothyroid/Ectopic Kidney/High DHEA-S* HSG - All clear, ectopic kidney didn't affect uterus (yay!) CT Adrenal Scan - no tumors! SA - sperm count excellent, 2% Morphology March/April IUI scheduled - surprise BFP w/ help of Progesterone - 3/18/2016 Beta #1 @ 11dpo - 45.7 #2 @ 14dpo - 163 #3 @ 18dpo - 997 #4 @ 21dpo - 3799 EDD 12/1 based on O, 11/28 per Ob/Gyn (but he's wrong lol).
Just FYI - I've been DYING to buy a mamaroo - glad I didn't. A coworker w/ a newborn said that was an overpriced waste because the baby doesnt really care for it and probably wouldn't know a difference between the mamaroo and a regular swing.
Same. I had this on my registry to begin with, but then as I read reviews about it, people were either completely about it, or they said their kid hated it. I know some thing will work with some babies and others not so much, but the magnitude of difference between people's opinions makes me a little nervous to spend so much on it. So I decided to go with something else, I think the Fisher-Price rock and play or something like that.
Just FYI - I've been DYING to buy a mamaroo - glad I didn't. A coworker w/ a newborn said that was an overpriced waste because the baby doesnt really care for it and probably wouldn't know a difference between the mamaroo and a regular swing.
Same. I had this on my registry to begin with, but then as I read reviews about it, people were either completely about it, or they said their kid hated it. I know some thing will work with some babies and others not so much, but the magnitude of difference between people's opinions makes me a little nervous to spend so much on it. So I decided to go with something else, I think the Fisher-Price rock and play or something like that.
My kid wasn't a fan and probably would have preferred a traditional swing. Hed last long enough for me to pee and make lunch. My friend works at 4 moms and got it for me, so I'm glad nobody spent full price on it.
@slartybartfast we got a BOB Dualie. I took it out once with DD in one seat and her doll in the infant seat and it felt good. We have a bob revolution se single that got used a ridiculous amount with dd1 so naturally we went with the same thing for a double. And since DH is 6'6 and I'm 5'6, we got the dualie with adjustable handlebars, though we wouldn't have if we were closer in height.
Only thing is that it doesn't fit through standard doors. Nbd if it lives in a garage like ours. Also it's heavy.
And it's expensive but we got it on sale and I used my amazon completion discount (I fudged my due date to get it early).
I haven't read through all the posts in awhile (but plan to), and am wondering what dresser people bought. I am currently looking at getting the Kalani crib (espresso), based on good reviews, especially from the Baby Bargains book. However, I have read that the matching dressers are not great.
DH and I were out at some furniture stores today looking for a new recliner (for when baby arrives) and also looked at some dressers. Holy expensive! But, we'd like to get something of quality but still affordable. My in-laws said they'd buy us the crib and a dresser, so we can splurge a little but don't want to get out of hand. I like the taller dressers, but also wouldn't mind one of those longer ones to use as a changer and later on for more dresser top decor. We have the room.
It's so overwhelming... Do we go with the matching or search more for something that would look good? I found one at BRU that is exactly what i was looking for, for a longer one... but it's $500+. He'd use it forever, so it would be an investment, I suppose.
I am also questioning other registry items, but always find one thing that I focus on for a LONG time, and then move on to the next.
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**
@Kacie209 we bought the Kalani combo dresser and the Emily crib for DD2 in early 2012. the wood is soft. it's not what I would call high quality finishing but it is still solid and together. I haven't had any issues with the hardware falling apart but you can easily scratch the surface with a fingernail. We used the top as a changer and I put down some grippy shelf liner to hold the pad in place and just the texture has dented the top. the crib is even worse for wear, although it's been taken apart a few times and converted back and forth from full to crib etc. in contrast, I sold DD1's crib after 7 years (higher end) and it was still in decent shape despite all the wear and tear. The matching dresser has put up better but still has some wear. Eventually we will get the kids some higher quality furniture but for now they are still young and reckless, rather let them beat up the same cheap stuff.
@zubenescamali Thanks for the info on the combo dresser in the Kalani collection. I have looked at that, and would also use it as a changing table for awhile... and see how it goes. That's a bummer that the finish is so soft. Hmmm... I'll have to rethink. I wish DH and I would have started looking awhile ago, and I wanted to... we just never did. now I feel like we're in a crunch to buy whatever as I'd like to have at least a crib/dresser set up by end of October and be before goes hunting in November just so we're ready. It also stinks that a lot of the stores around here don't have these pieces in stock to look at... besides the few furniture stores and Target/BBB which only has a couple out.
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**
I struggled with dressers too. Do you have an IKEA? We got the Hemnes dresser which is pretty popular. I like that it has 8 drawers, and is a little taller, but still able to be used with a changing pad on top. It was $250 and the quality seems good. Much sturdier than other IKEA stuff we've had. Only downside is that the white is not quite as bright a white as our crib (DaVinci brand), but they're on opposite walls and it's not a big deal to me.
We have the Kalani crib and it's beautiful, but it scratches so easily. Especially when toddler decides that it makes a great teething toy. Ugh. I need to make a fleece thing to tie on the sides that he chewed.
We got a cheaper long dresser with matching night stand to use for him and for 2.0. He's getting a nicer dresser and bed this month that he will use through college I hope, and his stuff is going into the baby's room, because like someone else said, kids are rough on furniture and I'd rather invest in nicer stuff when they're a little older.
@cgss11 No, we don't have an IKEA nearby (closest one is 3 hours away), but I'd take a road trip if I couldn't order it online. I could have family deliver, however. I have looked at the ones from their, but we plan on that darker brown crib and would like everything to somewhat match, and they don't have anything in a darker brown.
I don't mind being cheap and spending more down the road (if we get a different bed for them later on). I just can't justify the money, and I usually don't have a problem spending if it's quality. Heck, we're spending $600+ on a recliner that I know will last for a LONG time.
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**
Ugh - warning. I am in the process of updating our Babies R Us registry b/c apparently a bunch of stuff we put on way back when is "out of stock" - but if I search for it, I can find it "in stock" on another listing. So annoying. Check your registries!
@penelope4612 like @aevan011, I check my registry (Target mainly, but some items from Buy Buy Baby) daily and still see stuff that was in stock, and now either isn't or was JUST discontinued. I still don't know if I should register for more or less... SO many things and a constant stress.
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**
This is somewhat related to gear, but maybe belongs on the Registry thread... feel free to yell at me if so!
Has anyone had problems with people using BabyList? I am concerned that some of my older family members and friends may have trouble understanding that it's online and there is no in store registry that they can print out. Does it make sense to also have store registries with the same stuff and just monitor BabyList to make sure it's up to date? I think my sister is throwing me a shower in October so I have some time, but wanted to pick your collective brains Any and all thoughts are welcome!! TIA!
I am using BabyList, but I have a combination of items on BabyList that can't be found on or are cheaper than my Babies R Us and Amazon Registries. Mostly I liked the convenience of one online location to put on the invitations for the showers my family members and friends are hosting. There is probably a total of 10-15 items JUST on BabyList, otherwise it has links to the Babies R Us and Amazon registries.
FTM! I know absolutely NOTHING about anything. Because I was panicking, I had a seasoned mom friend (two kids in 364 days) go "pre-register" with me. We spent a few hours in the store and she talked to me about each product and why she either liked it or loved it. She had a lot of trial and error with products. She was a life saver. Then when we did register, I had a couple mom friends go online and review our list to tell me what we were missing. I have also stalked complete stranger's registry lists to see what they were asking for.
Where are you registering (if at all)? Babies R Us (because of their rewards program for receiving cash back on purchases and for the 10% completion discount offered). Even items you purchase off of your registry help you earn money back (we bought our car seat/stroller travel system when we registered so that we could take the car seat on car test drives with us). Babies R Us also has a great return policy - up to a year after your due date (not purchase date) - used or new. Anywhere you would advise NOT registering? We didn't consider anywhere else or hear bad things about other locations. The only other place I'd look at is Buy Buy Baby, but was advised by a friend that since it isn't everywhere it may be harder for people to purchase your items.
Stroller: We did a travel system with a jogger stroller. Graco Modes Jogger Travel System. It has a large metal spoke front tire that is easier in off road situations like dirt and sand. I use to be a runner and was just getting back into it pre-pregnancy, so I saw this as a great way to get out and about with our little one and move around. It folds up easily and the car seat connects directly into the frame in 4 different ways. Husband loves how easy it is to navigate. Because it is large, we also registered for Babies R Us brand lightweight umbrella stroller for when the baby is able to support itself more.
Car Seat: With the travel system we got, it included the Graco SnugRide Click Connect 35 Infant car seat. It holds up to 35 lbs - rear facing. I had many friends tell me to do the Click Connect system because of the ease it allows for getting it in and out of the car.
Baby Carrier(s): Ergo 360. Make sure to get the infant insert as well as it is sold separately. Though I have had other friends rave about the Tula as well because of the thicker and more comfortable shoulder straps.
High Chair: Graco Blosson LX 4-in-1 Seating. Converts to all the seating that is needed to follow the growth of the child.
Crib: We had a friend that had purchased a Delta Children 4-in-1 Crib from Target when they were expecting their second child, but then decided to upgrade their toddler to a toddler bed and give their son her crib. A year later, they realized they forgot to return it - so we purchased it off of them. We were lost as to which one to get as we wanted a converting one with good reviews, but wasn't the price of a small horse.
Glider: We're registered for the Geneva Gilder and Ottoman just because it is so flipping comfy. But it's also costly - so we are looking at other alternatives that we won't mind buying for ourselves if it is not gifted to us. Ones that we want to go sit on and check out is the Storkcraft Hoop and Tuscany.
Dresser: We actually have an old dresser that belonged to my grandma. It has 4 drawers. My dad is refinishing it and adding a railing to the top so that the changing pad can be up there.
Swing/Rock N Play/other rocking device: Swing: Graco Simple Sway Swing; Rocker: Infant to Toddler Rocker (Disney Finding Nemo theme)
Baby care (ie, lotions, shampoo/soap, diaper creams, etc): We went with the Johnson and Johnson supplies. Shampoo/Wash, Lotion, Ear swabs, powder, etc. Haven't looked into diaper creams yet. Will likely get a general kind then change it depending on needs. Wanting a grooming kit that comes with the aspirators, nail clippers, hair products, etc. Thermometer - we are wanting the pacifier one, rectal one, and the forehead swipe one. Also a bath thermometer for gauging water temp. Humidifier also!
Baby bottles: I've heard not to stalk up on just one kind because each baby is different. I am going to be breastfeeding primarily for the first 4 weeks before introducing a bottle to avoid nipple confusion (as advised by a breastfeeding class). We have registered for the Tommee Tippee and Medela.
Diaper brands (cloth or disposable): We are going disposable. This has been a tough one on us as we want to get a membership to Costco or Sam's Club to help with diaper costs, but don't know what the kid will take to yet. We've registered and will start getting different brands so that we can trial and error as I hear each baby is different. All of my friends swear by different brands. Since we are registering at Babies R Us, we are going to buy most of them from there to help with the return ease, though once we know which brand, we will go to other stores.
Other must-haves: We are getting a second car seat base so that we do not have to keep removing and installing the one that came with the seat. Feeding covers and breast pump supplies. A friend said to register for eating supplies for as it is transitioning to foods since that sneaks up on you quickly. Teething toys. Safety supplies (locks and covers). Pack n Play for overnight visits and other room naps. We are also getting a bassinet pack n play for our room for the first few months that it will be with us and then for lighter on the go sleeping. Bather support. We went with Angelcare, but there are so many options out there. Diaper genie - not necessary, but husband really wants it, so what the heck.
*** If anyone wants to stalk my registry at Babies R Us - message me and I'll give you some details to find it.
I have been using this thread for ideas mainly, but have been somewhat finalizing my registries since my first shower invites have gone out. I still may go in and change stuff, but they work for now.
I am a FTM, and was told by my SIL that we'd get some of their gently used bigger items (PnP, bouncer, exersaucer, etc), but by the time they actually go through that stuff - my child will be 6 months old, so I just asked for anything and will fill stuff in with their stuff later.
Where are you registering (if at all)? Target, Buy Buy Baby
Anywhere you would advise NOT registering? n/a - but I hate that most items are online only, especially for things I really wanted.
Stroller: Chicco Travel System, but also registered for the Chicco Caddy Car Seat Carrier
Car Seat: Along with the travel system, the Chicco Key Fit 30 comes with it. We also put on a convertible car seat, which is the Chicco NextFit
Baby Carrier(s): My sister bought me a Moby, which has a MN Twins logo on it. But, we may think about the Ergobaby 360 for DH. It's not registered for, so may be a splurge for us later.
High Chair: none right now, as we don't have room. But, once we'll need it... looking at a Graco or Fisher Price ones that transitions to various stages.
Crib: undecided at the moment, but probably a DaVinci based on loads of reviews. Either the Kalani or the Piedmont. Either in Espresso.
Glider: Not sure, but have read great things on the Duteailer ones and may splurge. We are buying a nice new leather rocking recliner for our upstairs living room, too.
Dresser: Ended up buying the IEA Hemnes 8-drawer in black-brown. My sister was making a trip home last weekend to attend a baby shower for me, and was going to IKEA anyway to buy a couple things for her house... so she graciously picked it up and delivered. We also got a matching night stand, which will either be used in the room now or will remain in box for later.
Swing/Rock N Play/other rocking device: Registered for all, ha. Graco® Glider™ LX Gliding Swing, Fisher-Price Newborn to Toddler Rocker (has been bought), and the Fisher-Price Newborn Auto Rock n’ Play Sleeper (has been bought)
Baby care (ie, lotions, shampoo/soap, diaper creams, etc): I put on a lotion and bath set from Aveeno (both have been bought). I have debated diaper creams, but a friend said that yogurt works just as well.
Baby bottles: Not sure. A friend is giving me her Tommee (sp?) Tippy ones, which I have heard good things. So as long as they work, we may just go with those. Oh, SIL gave us a bunch of Dr. Brown ones, so that works.
Diaper brands (cloth or disposable): Disposable, but playing it by ear... may take recommendations as it gets closer.
Other must-haves: Graco Pack n Play (has been bought), Diaper Genie (has been bought), Motorola Video Monitor that connects to WiFi, tub, a certain mattress (Moonlight Slumber, MIL is buying for us), some sleep sacks (got a couple at a shower)... that's all I can think of off the top of my head.
Things you're going to skip or were not useful last time: FTM here, so not sure. I have been advised that a wipe warmer is nor necessary and have been debating the bottle warmer. I didn't register for a breast pump and wont buy one until I know that is what DS will want to do. My insurance covers a manual one, but I would prefer electric.. which my new insurance company as of 1.1.17 does cover, but will be past the time to possibly get. I'll have to look into that. I also haven't registered for any clothes; I can easily go buy them myself.
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**
Since I have finalized my registries for the shower I thought I'd share. I don't really have any experience or advice as a FTM. I had my mom look at it to see if I was missing anything huge. I also asked a few friends that had babies recently what their "must haves" were.
Where are you registering (if at all)? Target, Amazon, CottonBabies.com. Unfortunately, there's no real baby stores close to me (most people invited to the shower are also local to me) so I mostly went the Amazon route.
Anywhere you would advise NOT registering? n/a
Stroller: Baby Jogger City Mini GT
Car Seat: The Baby Jogger City Go which comes as a travel system with the stroller. We also registered for a convertible car seat for DHs car, a Maxi-Cosi Pria. We went this route versus just getting another base because we'd be dropping and picking baby up a day care separate and they don't want car seats left there so that wouldn't work. Plus, we figured we'd need a convertible seat eventually anyways.
Baby Carrier(s): K'tan and Tula. I figured the wrap would be better for when they are small and the Tula for when they are a bit bigger.
High Chair: Phil & Teds Poppy highchair. I wanted something that didn't have the cushions and would be harder to clean. This one is molded and can be wiped clean easily.
Crib: We bought a Graco convertible one from Baby's r Us. I wasn't picky and didn't want to spend to much. I just wanted something in a cherry finish that matched the dresser we already had.
Glider: The ILs bought us one from a furniture store as our gift. It's resembles an upholstered chair but is a rocker. It's so comfortable and I'm pretty excited about it.
Dresser: We got one back in the winter that we found from pier 1 on a really good sale. It's a wide dresser and the perfect height to use as a changing table too.
Swing/Rock N Play/other rocking device: Registered for the Graco Glider Elite Baby Swing which can double as both a swing and bouncer.
Baby care (ie, lotions, shampoo/soap, diaper creams, etc): I bought some Aveeno items. I also bought some baby powers, diaper creams, etc. I figured I'd go ahead and get some of those versus registering because for diaper creams specifically we will be limited in what we can use since we are doing cloth.
Baby bottles: I've registered for the Kiinde set so I'm really hoping that works out. I know they have adapters for different nipples so I'll have to explore that if needed. We also got some Tommee Tippee bottles that we found half off and decided to pick up.
Diaper brands (cloth or disposable): Cloth. We registered at CottonBabies.com and have already started getting stuff for the flip system. We chose this one versus AIO because you can just change the inserts more frequently than the shell which cuts down on the total number of diapers needed, and of course, laundry.
Other must-haves: A video monitor, Pack n Play (which will be used as a bassinet in the beginning), and an Ubbi which allows us to use wet bags for cloth diapers.
Things you're going to skip or were not useful last time: Again, FTM so I don't really have any idea. We are team green so we didn't register for really any clothes, only some socks and mitts, etc. We've bought some clothes to get us through the start. I'm hoping, this will equate to people getting us things we need. We can pick always get clothes later. Also, aside from the Kiinde system we didn't register for any additional nipples/bottles. We figured we'd get that as needed.
Me: 26 & DH: 25
Married: August 2014 TTC since November 2015 BFP #1 12/17/15 - MC 1/28/16 BFP #2 4/22/16 - EDD 12/30/16
@l9i I'm also planning on going with the Kiinde system! They really sell it well Are you going with the set with the bottle warmer? I'm trying to decide if it will be worth it, but I've heard my insurance (Tricare) covers the set, so I might get it for kicks.
Me: 31 | DH: 31
Together since 2003 | Married 2010 TTC #1 January 2016 BFP April 18 2016 | EDD December 29, 2016 Welcome baby A! January 9, 2017
TTC#2 March 2018 BFP March 30, 2018 | EDD December 12, 2018
When I worked as nanny the one they had you could flip the changing part up and out of the way. I liked that put I can't seem to find many that do that anymore.
It needs to have a bassinet/infant sleeper because that's what I'm planning on putting in our room. Beyond that, I'm not sure..it will likely get put in our second living room/playroom to be used to change diapers and contain her occasionally.
When I worked as nanny the one they had you could flip the changing part up and out of the way. I liked that put I can't seem to find many that do that anymore.
It needs to have a bassinet/infant sleeper because that's what I'm planning on putting in our room. Beyond that, I'm not sure..it will likely get put in our second living room/playroom to be used to change diapers and contain her occasionally.
My chicco pnp is like this but I got it for DS 5 years ago. I am not sure if they still make it with those features.
Finally remembered to update! I have had one shower already and the next is set for 10/8. I'm sitting here verbally bribing my son to stay put or he won't get all of his gifts... #winning
Where are you registering?Amazon and Target
Anywhere you would advise NOT registering? --
Stroller/Car Seat: Britax 2016 B-Agile/B-Safe 35 Travel System
Baby Carrier(s): Ergo-360 and a Moby wrap
High Chair: Graco Simple Switch Chair and Booster Combo
Crib: We bought this ourselves. The Davinci 4-in-1 convertible
Glider: TBD. We have one in mind to be purchased from an estate but I need to see it this week first. (My bro and his lady run an estate sale company, isn't that cool)?
Dresser: Repurposing an old chest of drawers for inside his closet! We received a hand-me-down really nice changing table with drawers from a friend.
Swing/Rock N Play/other rocking device: Received a Rock N Play from a friend who got two at a shower earlier this year.
Baby care (ie, lotions, shampoo/soap, diaper creams, etc): We registered for the following brands: Boudreaux's butt paste, Aquaphor, Babyganics, and Aveeno Baby.
Baby bottles: Registered for Dr. Browns, Tommee Tippee, and received unused/unwrapped Avent bottles from friends.
Diaper brands (cloth or disposable): Disposable for now. Wouldn't shy away from trying cloth later. Brands include Pampers Swaddlers, Earth's Best, and Bambo Nature.
Other must-haves: We registered for the Graco Pack N Play with the bassinet to try for his initial sleeping arrangement in our room. Asking for a bunch of blankets & burp cloths of various kinds - some Target stuff, Aden + Anais, American Baby Co. - hoping to get the miracle blanket swaddlers we want, another "big item" is the Infant Optics Video Monitor, and we already received at my first shower the First Years Sure Comfort Newborn to Todder Tub we wanted (with a cute rubber duckie temperature gauge for we newbs).
Things you're going to skip or were not useful last time: Didn't register for any clothes because I've been hitting up kids consignment sales like a wacko already. I skipped the wipe warmer and the bottle steamer for now. Just wingin' it, man!
Does anyone have any experience with a bassinet? My brother gave us his old one. It comes with a very thin, flimsy, plasticky pad for a mattress. I'm a little worried it's not firm enough, although it's pretty thin and rests on a hard surface. I was thinking of replacing it but then I read online that you shouldn't put a pad in a bassinet if it's not by the same brand and this brand doesn't seem to sell replacement pads. Also it seems that the replacements are all just thin pads anyway. Does anyone else have a bassinet? Is the mattress just a thin pad?
Does anyone have any experience with a bassinet? My brother gave us his old one. It comes with a very thin, flimsy, plasticky pad for a mattress. I'm a little worried it's not firm enough, although it's pretty thin and rests on a hard surface. I was thinking of replacing it but then I read online that you shouldn't put a pad in a bassinet if it's not by the same brand and this brand doesn't seem to sell replacement pads. Also it seems that the replacements are all just thin pads anyway. Does anyone else have a bassinet? Is the mattress just a thin pad?
We are using the cradle my mom used with me. Since the pad is almost 30 years old we are replacing it. ( Cradle is handmade so there isn't a specific brand of pad.) If I'm remembering correctly the surfaces baby sleeps on aren't suppose to be super soft. The pad in the cradle is thin as is the new one we ate getting to replace the current one. I think you are probably okay to use the pad in the bassinet your brother gave you.
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My Tula carrier came in the mail today. It's way bigger than I thought! Granted I'm fairly small but dang, thing takes over my entire torso up to my neck. At least I know it won't be too small for FI.
So I've mentioned before that I love lists. I sat down tonight after shower #1 and assessed via our registries (public and private) what I believe we need to bring him home and function until tax return time if we never got another gift. I also compared prices and did the math. I think we can get the number lower using Amazon warehouse deals and registry completion discounts, but here's where we stand right now:
@Austenista I had something similar in a spreadsheet for the registries. Do those prices take into account the discounts already? Target=15% (plus 5% is you have red card, and some with cartwheel), Amazon is 20% if you have prime/mom.
If money is super tight, some of those things fall on the "nice to have" list instead of "needs"...but that's also subjective to each person. Or you can look on Craigslist or Facebook buy/sell pages.
@sourlemon nope, I always do a cost analysis before discounts with anything when I'm bargaining, and then the goal is to whittle down from there in discounts or Amazon warehouse deals. This is my list of what I think I need to bring him home and make it until we get our tax returns which will probably be in March.
Re: Giant Gear Thread
HSG - All clear, ectopic kidney didn't affect uterus (yay!)
CT Adrenal Scan - no tumors!
SA - sperm count excellent, 2% Morphology
March/April IUI scheduled - surprise BFP w/ help of Progesterone - 3/18/2016
Beta #1 @ 11dpo - 45.7 #2 @ 14dpo - 163 #3 @ 18dpo - 997 #4 @ 21dpo - 3799
EDD 12/1 based on O, 11/28 per Ob/Gyn (but he's wrong lol).
*TEAM BLUE!*
Only thing is that it doesn't fit through standard doors. Nbd if it lives in a garage like ours. Also it's heavy.
And it's expensive but we got it on sale and I used my amazon completion discount (I fudged my due date to get it early).
DH and I were out at some furniture stores today looking for a new recliner (for when baby arrives) and also looked at some dressers. Holy expensive! But, we'd like to get something of quality but still affordable. My in-laws said they'd buy us the crib and a dresser, so we can splurge a little but don't want to get out of hand. I like the taller dressers, but also wouldn't mind one of those longer ones to use as a changer and later on for more dresser top decor. We have the room.
It's so overwhelming... Do we go with the matching or search more for something that would look good? I found one at BRU that is exactly what i was looking for, for a longer one... but it's $500+. He'd use it forever, so it would be an investment, I suppose.
I am also questioning other registry items, but always find one thing that I focus on for a LONG time, and then move on to the next.
TTC Since: November 2015
BFP: March 31, 2016
DS: November 21, 2016
Eventually we will get the kids some higher quality furniture but for now they are still young and reckless, rather let them beat up the same cheap stuff.
My Wedding Bio!
TTC Since: November 2015
BFP: March 31, 2016
DS: November 21, 2016
We got a cheaper long dresser with matching night stand to use for him and for 2.0. He's getting a nicer dresser and bed this month that he will use through college I hope, and his stuff is going into the baby's room, because like someone else said, kids are rough on furniture and I'd rather invest in nicer stuff when they're a little older.
@cgss11 No, we don't have an IKEA nearby (closest one is 3 hours away), but I'd take a road trip if I couldn't order it online. I could have family deliver, however.
I have looked at the ones from their, but we plan on that darker brown crib and would like everything to somewhat match, and they don't have anything in a darker brown.
I don't mind being cheap and spending more down the road (if we get a different bed for them later on). I just can't justify the money, and I usually don't have a problem spending if it's quality. Heck, we're spending $600+ on a recliner that I know will last for a LONG time.
TTC Since: November 2015
BFP: March 31, 2016
DS: November 21, 2016
TTC Since: November 2015
BFP: March 31, 2016
DS: November 21, 2016
Where are you registering (if at all)? Babies R Us (because of their rewards program for receiving cash back on purchases and for the 10% completion discount offered). Even items you purchase off of your registry help you earn money back (we bought our car seat/stroller travel system when we registered so that we could take the car seat on car test drives with us). Babies R Us also has a great return policy - up to a year after your due date (not purchase date) - used or new.
Anywhere you would advise NOT registering? We didn't consider anywhere else or hear bad things about other locations. The only other place I'd look at is Buy Buy Baby, but was advised by a friend that since it isn't everywhere it may be harder for people to purchase your items.
Stroller: We did a travel system with a jogger stroller. Graco Modes Jogger Travel System. It has a large metal spoke front tire that is easier in off road situations like dirt and sand. I use to be a runner and was just getting back into it pre-pregnancy, so I saw this as a great way to get out and about with our little one and move around. It folds up easily and the car seat connects directly into the frame in 4 different ways. Husband loves how easy it is to navigate. Because it is large, we also registered for Babies R Us brand lightweight umbrella stroller for when the baby is able to support itself more.
Car Seat: With the travel system we got, it included the Graco SnugRide Click Connect 35 Infant car seat. It holds up to 35 lbs - rear facing. I had many friends tell me to do the Click Connect system because of the ease it allows for getting it in and out of the car.
Baby Carrier(s): Ergo 360. Make sure to get the infant insert as well as it is sold separately. Though I have had other friends rave about the Tula as well because of the thicker and more comfortable shoulder straps.
High Chair: Graco Blosson LX 4-in-1 Seating. Converts to all the seating that is needed to follow the growth of the child.
Crib: We had a friend that had purchased a Delta Children 4-in-1 Crib from Target when they were expecting their second child, but then decided to upgrade their toddler to a toddler bed and give their son her crib. A year later, they realized they forgot to return it - so we purchased it off of them. We were lost as to which one to get as we wanted a converting one with good reviews, but wasn't the price of a small horse.
Glider: We're registered for the Geneva Gilder and Ottoman just because it is so flipping comfy. But it's also costly - so we are looking at other alternatives that we won't mind buying for ourselves if it is not gifted to us. Ones that we want to go sit on and check out is the Storkcraft Hoop and Tuscany.
Dresser: We actually have an old dresser that belonged to my grandma. It has 4 drawers. My dad is refinishing it and adding a railing to the top so that the changing pad can be up there.
Swing/Rock N Play/other rocking device: Swing: Graco Simple Sway Swing; Rocker: Infant to Toddler Rocker (Disney Finding Nemo theme)
Baby care (ie, lotions, shampoo/soap, diaper creams, etc): We went with the Johnson and Johnson supplies. Shampoo/Wash, Lotion, Ear swabs, powder, etc. Haven't looked into diaper creams yet. Will likely get a general kind then change it depending on needs. Wanting a grooming kit that comes with the aspirators, nail clippers, hair products, etc. Thermometer - we are wanting the pacifier one, rectal one, and the forehead swipe one. Also a bath thermometer for gauging water temp. Humidifier also!
Baby bottles: I've heard not to stalk up on just one kind because each baby is different. I am going to be breastfeeding primarily for the first 4 weeks before introducing a bottle to avoid nipple confusion (as advised by a breastfeeding class). We have registered for the Tommee Tippee and Medela.
Diaper brands (cloth or disposable): We are going disposable. This has been a tough one on us as we want to get a membership to Costco or Sam's Club to help with diaper costs, but don't know what the kid will take to yet. We've registered and will start getting different brands so that we can trial and error as I hear each baby is different. All of my friends swear by different brands. Since we are registering at Babies R Us, we are going to buy most of them from there to help with the return ease, though once we know which brand, we will go to other stores.
Other must-haves: We are getting a second car seat base so that we do not have to keep removing and installing the one that came with the seat. Feeding covers and breast pump supplies. A friend said to register for eating supplies for as it is transitioning to foods since that sneaks up on you quickly. Teething toys. Safety supplies (locks and covers). Pack n Play for overnight visits and other room naps. We are also getting a bassinet pack n play for our room for the first few months that it will be with us and then for lighter on the go sleeping. Bather support. We went with Angelcare, but there are so many options out there. Diaper genie - not necessary, but husband really wants it, so what the heck.
*** If anyone wants to stalk my registry at Babies R Us - message me and I'll give you some details to find it.
I have been using this thread for ideas mainly, but have been somewhat finalizing my registries since my first shower invites have gone out. I still may go in and change stuff, but they work for now.
I am a FTM, and was told by my SIL that we'd get some of their gently used bigger items (PnP, bouncer, exersaucer, etc), but by the time they actually go through that stuff - my child will be 6 months old, so I just asked for anything and will fill stuff in with their stuff later.
Where are you registering (if at all)? Target, Buy Buy Baby
Anywhere you would advise NOT registering? n/a - but I hate that most items are online only, especially for things I really wanted.
Stroller: Chicco Travel System, but also registered for the Chicco Caddy Car Seat Carrier
Car Seat: Along with the travel system, the Chicco Key Fit 30 comes with it. We also put on a convertible car seat, which is the Chicco NextFit
Baby Carrier(s): My sister bought me a Moby, which has a MN Twins logo on it. But, we may think about the Ergobaby 360 for DH. It's not registered for, so may be a splurge for us later.
High Chair: none right now, as we don't have room. But, once we'll need it... looking at a Graco or Fisher Price ones that transitions to various stages.
Crib: undecided at the moment, but probably a DaVinci based on loads of reviews. Either the Kalani or the Piedmont. Either in Espresso.
Glider: Not sure, but have read great things on the Duteailer ones and may splurge. We are buying a nice new leather rocking recliner for our upstairs living room, too.
Dresser: Ended up buying the IEA Hemnes 8-drawer in black-brown. My sister was making a trip home last weekend to attend a baby shower for me, and was going to IKEA anyway to buy a couple things for her house... so she graciously picked it up and delivered. We also got a matching night stand, which will either be used in the room now or will remain in box for later.
Swing/Rock N Play/other rocking device: Registered for all, ha. Graco® Glider™ LX Gliding Swing, Fisher-Price Newborn to Toddler Rocker (has been bought), and the Fisher-Price Newborn Auto Rock n’ Play Sleeper (has been bought)
Baby care (ie, lotions, shampoo/soap, diaper creams, etc): I put on a lotion and bath set from Aveeno (both have been bought). I have debated diaper creams, but a friend said that yogurt works just as well.
Baby bottles: Not sure. A friend is giving me her Tommee (sp?) Tippy ones, which I have heard good things. So as long as they work, we may just go with those. Oh, SIL gave us a bunch of Dr. Brown ones, so that works.
Diaper brands (cloth or disposable): Disposable, but playing it by ear... may take recommendations as it gets closer.
Other must-haves: Graco Pack n Play (has been bought), Diaper Genie (has been bought), Motorola Video Monitor that connects to WiFi, tub, a certain mattress (Moonlight Slumber, MIL is buying for us), some sleep sacks (got a couple at a shower)... that's all I can think of off the top of my head.
Things you're going to skip or were not useful last time: FTM here, so not sure. I have been advised that a wipe warmer is nor necessary and have been debating the bottle warmer. I didn't register for a breast pump and wont buy one until I know that is what DS will want to do. My insurance covers a manual one, but I would prefer electric.. which my new insurance company as of 1.1.17 does cover, but will be past the time to possibly get. I'll have to look into that. I also haven't registered for any clothes; I can easily go buy them myself.
TTC Since: November 2015
BFP: March 31, 2016
DS: November 21, 2016
Since I have finalized my registries for the shower I thought I'd share. I don't really have any experience or advice as a FTM. I had my mom look at it to see if I was missing anything huge. I also asked a few friends that had babies recently what their "must haves" were.
Where are you registering (if at all)? Target, Amazon, CottonBabies.com. Unfortunately, there's no real baby stores close to me (most people invited to the shower are also local to me) so I mostly went the Amazon route.
Anywhere you would advise NOT registering? n/a
Stroller: Baby Jogger City Mini GT
Car Seat: The Baby Jogger City Go which comes as a travel system with the stroller. We also registered for a convertible car seat for DHs car, a Maxi-Cosi Pria. We went this route versus just getting another base because we'd be dropping and picking baby up a day care separate and they don't want car seats left there so that wouldn't work. Plus, we figured we'd need a convertible seat eventually anyways.
Baby Carrier(s): K'tan and Tula. I figured the wrap would be better for when they are small and the Tula for when they are a bit bigger.
High Chair: Phil & Teds Poppy highchair. I wanted something that didn't have the cushions and would be harder to clean. This one is molded and can be wiped clean easily.
Crib: We bought a Graco convertible one from Baby's r Us. I wasn't picky and didn't want to spend to much. I just wanted something in a cherry finish that matched the dresser we already had.
Glider: The ILs bought us one from a furniture store as our gift. It's resembles an upholstered chair but is a rocker. It's so comfortable and I'm pretty excited about it.
Dresser: We got one back in the winter that we found from pier 1 on a really good sale. It's a wide dresser and the perfect height to use as a changing table too.
Swing/Rock N Play/other rocking device: Registered for the Graco Glider Elite Baby Swing which can double as both a swing and bouncer.
Baby care (ie, lotions, shampoo/soap, diaper creams, etc): I bought some Aveeno items. I also bought some baby powers, diaper creams, etc. I figured I'd go ahead and get some of those versus registering because for diaper creams specifically we will be limited in what we can use since we are doing cloth.
Baby bottles: I've registered for the Kiinde set so I'm really hoping that works out. I know they have adapters for different nipples so I'll have to explore that if needed. We also got some Tommee Tippee bottles that we found half off and decided to pick up.
Diaper brands (cloth or disposable): Cloth. We registered at CottonBabies.com and have already started getting stuff for the flip system. We chose this one versus AIO because you can just change the inserts more frequently than the shell which cuts down on the total number of diapers needed, and of course, laundry.
Other must-haves: A video monitor, Pack n Play (which will be used as a bassinet in the beginning), and an Ubbi which allows us to use wet bags for cloth diapers.
Things you're going to skip or were not useful last time: Again, FTM so I don't really have any idea. We are team green so we didn't register for really any clothes, only some socks and mitts, etc. We've bought some clothes to get us through the start. I'm hoping, this will equate to people getting us things we need. We can pick always get clothes later. Also, aside from the Kiinde system we didn't register for any additional nipples/bottles. We figured we'd get that as needed.
TTC since November 2015
BFP #1 12/17/15 - MC 1/28/16
BFP #2 4/22/16 - EDD 12/30/16
TTC #1 January 2016
BFP April 18 2016 | EDD December 29, 2016
Welcome baby A! January 9, 2017
TTC#2 March 2018
BFP March 30, 2018 | EDD December 12, 2018
When I worked as nanny the one they had you could flip the changing part up and out of the way. I liked that put I can't seem to find many that do that anymore.
It needs to have a bassinet/infant sleeper because that's what I'm planning on putting in our room. Beyond that, I'm not sure..it will likely get put in our second living room/playroom to be used to change diapers and contain her occasionally.
TTC since November 2015
BFP #1 12/17/15 - MC 1/28/16
BFP #2 4/22/16 - EDD 12/30/16
The warmer is good- esp to unfreeze frozen bags, but not totally necessary (cup of warm water works too, for the most part)
we have the davinci kalaini in espresso if you're curious for pictures or have questions!
Where are you registering? Amazon and Target
Anywhere you would advise NOT registering? --
Stroller/Car Seat: Britax 2016 B-Agile/B-Safe 35 Travel System
Baby Carrier(s): Ergo-360 and a Moby wrap
High Chair: Graco Simple Switch Chair and Booster Combo
Crib: We bought this ourselves. The Davinci 4-in-1 convertible
Glider: TBD. We have one in mind to be purchased from an estate but I need to see it this week first. (My bro and his lady run an estate sale company, isn't that cool)?
Dresser: Repurposing an old chest of drawers for inside his closet! We received a hand-me-down really nice changing table with drawers from a friend.
Swing/Rock N Play/other rocking device: Received a Rock N Play from a friend who got two at a shower earlier this year.
Baby care (ie, lotions, shampoo/soap, diaper creams, etc): We registered for the following brands: Boudreaux's butt paste, Aquaphor, Babyganics, and Aveeno Baby.
Baby bottles: Registered for Dr. Browns, Tommee Tippee, and received unused/unwrapped Avent bottles from friends.
Diaper brands (cloth or disposable): Disposable for now. Wouldn't shy away from trying cloth later. Brands include Pampers Swaddlers, Earth's Best, and Bambo Nature.
Other must-haves: We registered for the Graco Pack N Play with the bassinet to try for his initial sleeping arrangement in our room. Asking for a bunch of blankets & burp cloths of various kinds - some Target stuff, Aden + Anais, American Baby Co. - hoping to get the miracle blanket swaddlers we want, another "big item" is the Infant Optics Video Monitor, and we already received at my first shower the First Years Sure Comfort Newborn to Todder Tub we wanted (with a cute rubber duckie temperature gauge for we newbs).
Things you're going to skip or were not useful last time: Didn't register for any clothes because I've been hitting up kids consignment sales like a wacko already. I skipped the wipe warmer and the bottle steamer for now. Just wingin' it, man!
Halo Bassinet $249(BRU), $249 (AZN)
4 small Halo sleep sacks $20 (BRU), $20 (Target), $17 (AZN)
Carseat Mat $20 (BRU), $22 (AZN)
Backpack diaper bag $80 (BRU), $63 (AZN)
Travel System $300 (BRU)
Moby wrap $50 (BRU), $45 (Target), $40 (AZN)
Lansinoh 3 in 1 breast therapy $11 (BRU), $10 (AZN)
Pacifiers 10 $5(BRU), $4 (Target), $4 (AZN)= $40
Wubbanub $14 (BRU), $14 (Target), $14 (AZN)
Nursing pads 100ct $11 (BRU), $11 (Target), $13 (AZN)
Nursing Cover $25 (BRU), $30 (Target), $22 (AZN)
Thermometer $35 (BRU), $25 (Target)
Babyganics Essentials Set $30 (BRU), $12 (AZN)
Baby Tub $40 (BRU), $18 (Target), $16 (AZN)
Angelcare Monitor $160 (BRU), $150 (AZN)
Play yard $100 (BRU)
Rock n Play $80 (BRU), $75 (Target), $56 (AZN)
Health and Grooming kit $20 (BRU), $20 (Target), $20 (AZN)
Ergo baby carrier $120(Target), $130 (AZN)
Changing Pad $30 (BRU), $30 (Target), $20 (AZN)
Guess expense before tax or discounts: $1356
Already Have:
-Boppy
-Enough clothing/sleepers to change him several times a day like a 19th century lady
-Mittens
-Diapers
-Wipes
-Breast Pump Prescription
-Coconut Oil
-Burp cloths
-Bibs
Unaccounted for expenses:
-nursing bras for me
-button down sleep shirts for me
-baby socks/hats
-diaper cream
-freezer meals
*This might be nesting*
If money is super tight, some of those things fall on the "nice to have" list instead of "needs"...but that's also subjective to each person. Or you can look on Craigslist or Facebook buy/sell pages.