It’s time for another installment of The Ultimate Baby Registry; this edition is all about mealtime! Whether you choose breastmilk or formula, you’ll need a few staples on hand to keep that sweet little baby happy and healthy. Here’s what the experts and real moms recommend!:
1. NIPPLE CREAM
A must-have for sore, nursing mamas, Bella B Nipple Nurture Butter
2. NURSING PADS // QTY: 12+
Washable nursing pads are great, but I’d have a few disposable versions on hand, as well (who knows the next time the laundry machine will be free from burp cloths, swaddle blankets, onesies and more?!).
3. PACIFIER // QTY: 6
Choosing a pacifier is a matter of taste, and BabyCenter has a wonderfully comprehensive pacifier guide I’d recommend. We chose Natursutten’s BPA-Free Natural Rubber Rounded Pacifier
4. HIGH CHAIR
Although it’ll be a few months before baby will be joining you at the dinner table, a high chair is a great registry gift for groups or families who might want to spend a bit more to welcome your babe. I love the Tavo High Chair for its modern design, and because it’s designed to scoot up to standard dining tables, you won’t need to fuss with a tray.
5. FEEDING PILLOW + COVER
A feeding pillow can make a world of difference when positioning your baby for a comfortable meal. A basic Boppy and water resistant cover are affordable and will likely become staples in your household as of day one!
6. BOTTLE DRYING RACK
You’ll be washing quite a few bottles in those first six months, so invest in a bottle drying rack that isn’t a major eyesore in your kitchen. I love the design of the Boon Grass Countertop Drying Rack
7. INSULATED BOTTLE CARRIER // QTY: 1
Perfect for the family-on-the-go, insulated bottle carriers are suited for road trips, play dates and visits where nursing might be tricky.
8. BABY FOOD BLENDER
If you plan to make your own baby food, Baby Brezza is a fantastic (and affordable) option.
9. BABY SPOONS // QTY: 6
Although introducing solids is still a long way away, having a few baby spoons on hand to experiment with might be a good idea.
10. BURP CLOTHS // QTY: 12
You’ll want a stockpile of burp cloths on hand for every feeding and a few more daily surprises. I like basic white organic cotton burp cloths for easy (safe!) bleaching.
11. BOTTLES & NIPPLES// QTY:
I chose glass baby bottles, but there are billions of options available. Giggle.com has a wonderful bottle and nipple guide to choose which one might be right for you. As for nipples, most bottle sets come equipped with Level 1 nipples, so you might want to stock up on a few Level 2 nipples
12. PORTABLE PLACEMAT // QTY: 1
The TinyDiner portable placemat is a must for babies just learning to eat solids in public. Keep this one on hand for the 8-month mark!
13. BREAST PUMP
If you plan to nurse, a hands-free breast pump is the one splurge recommended by nearly every new mother I know. After all, multi-tasking is every mother’s blessed curse, yes?
14. MILK STORAGE BAGS // QTY: 50+
If you plan to nurse, storing milk so Dad can take over feedings is a huge plus. Lansinoh’s Breast Milk Storage Bags
Happy registering, mamas! And for those of you who have conquered the baby phase, what did we miss? Any recommendations from your experience?