A Smorgasboard of Great Baby Items

I've been coming across some great finds for babies and very small children, and I loved so many, that I made up a top ten list (in no particular order). My mommy/wives group and I have tried many together, so these have passed the test of lots of little ones (and I hope it's helpful to some other new moms out there). Our Top Ten:

1. Vicks Rectal Thermometer...not only does this thermometer get great reviews for being very accurate and easy to use, but the large bulb ensures you do not have to worry about pushing it in too deep. The best part is that the baby barely feels it (no discomfort, no pain!). It is available for about $12.



2. Gramma Gayle's Lap Pads: these water-proof pads are the perfect size (18x18), machine washable, can be tossed in the dryer safely, and come in very attractive prints. I got it in a pink, blue and green handprints design. It's only $6.50, and it's fabulous and beautiful! It's worth picking up a few of these.

3. The Kidco Swivel and Door Latch from Totsafe (they sell great childproofing products). I don't think anyone needs to be told that home safety with babies and toddlers is soooo important! Totsafe offers a great selection of safety items, including various cabinet latches, kitchen, bathroom, and electrical safety products, and much more! Their cabinet latches are terrific, totally childproof, yet easy for adults to maneuver. Their customer service is terrific too.

4. PeaPodZ :) They are 5" by 2", flexible (to contour to the body), reusable, neat, and non-toxic, and the fact that it looks like a pea pod is adorable! They can be used for adults too.


5. Wubbanub pacifiers- these pacifiers have little plush friends for your baby to hold onto, helping to keep the pacifier in place, and they are easy to find should your baby drop it. Plus, they are so darned cute! Babies have fun playing with them too.

6. Weego Glass bottles- Not only are they non-toxic (no dangerous chemicals in the glass), but they come with non-slip, protective, silicone sleeves in six vibrant colors. I want to get them all!



7. 7th Generation Baby Wipes- I like their kitchen products, and I'm so happy they make baby wipes as well. Their wipes are non-toxic to a baby's gentle skin. You can find their products in Whole Foods, most health stores, and many other places.

8. Miracle Blanket- I love this product. Swaddling is considered the best way for your baby to sleep early on, and the Miracle Blanket makes it easy. They have a great selection of colors and are very afforable.


9. The Tummy Tub- this product mimics the warmth and coziness of the womb, and is a safe way to bathe your baby from birth. It looks like a bucket (which aren't safe to use!) but it's actually specifically designed to 1. have a safe center of gravity (no tipping over), 2. support the baby while bathing (so the baby doesn't fall under the water), and 3. keep the baby warm (low surface area keeps the water from cooling for at least 20 minutes).

10. What to Expect When You're Expecting and What To Expect The First Year- I read quite a few books to prepare me for pregnancy and the baby's first year, and none, I mean none, are as thorough and helpful as these two books are. I've heard complaints that they are too thorough, but is there such a thing? A book that has everything you need to know at the tip of your fingers is what we need, and if you don't want to know it all, you can always skip around or use the index. I tossed or donated the other books...these two have become my Expectant Mommy bibles.

Read our post on what to pack for the hospital when baby is on the way!