Baby Basics: Essential Baby Gear

The more kids I have the more I realize just how little a baby truly needs in the way of gear.  I know that there are many people in this world who have so very little.  It almost makes me feel silly to write a post about what I consider to be essentials.

Yet, we live in a time and place where we are able to have more than is probably necessary.  We have been blessed with many “things” that have helped with the care of our babies.

With that in mind I thought I would share with you the things that I consider to be “essential” items for my babies.

1. A babywearing device such as a wrap, pouch, or ring sling:  I honestly don’t think I would get anything done if it weren’t for babywearing.  For example, I have been able to have a garden while taking care of a newborn thanks to my homemade wrap.
2. An up-to-date infant car seat/carrier:   I am a big advocate for baby safety and am a stickler for following the rules when it comes to car seat safety.
3. A bouncy seat:  (See picture above.)  I might not ever get a shower if it weren’t for a bouncy seat.  🙂  I also use the seat to allow my jaundiced babies to get sunlight and/or fluorescent light when they are sleeping.  I try not to use the seat too much when my baby is awake.  I like that I can put it in any room unlike a big swing. 
4. A diaper bag:  I have had many styles of diaper bags over the years.  I have to say that I am really liking the bag I made before Janna was born.  However, as long as I have something to carry diapers, wipes, extra clothes, etc. I will be fine.  I don’t need anything fancy.
5. A crib:  I have always practiced co-sleeping, but still have a crib.  I feel like it is the safest place for my older babies to nap and sleep if I am not right there with them.  I have also used a portable crib/play yard for this purpose.  
6. A baby monitor:  I haven’t had to use a monitor with Janna yet.  However, when she is older and is sleeping when I am not in the same room with her I will definitely use it.  I also use a monitor when I have an older child who is sick.
7. Baby bathtub & hooded towels:  I have always liked to use an infant bathtub until my babies could sit up on their own.  However, Janna doesn’t seem to like hers so I give her a bath in the sink.  I am hopeful she will enjoy bath time before too long.  I also love hooded towels to wrap my babies in after their baths.  
8. High chair:  A high chair is a great place for baby to explore his or her food.  We also have a portable high chair that is great for taking to relatives houses, out to eat, and for use as a booster seat at our regular table.
9. Exersaucer:  When my babies are about 4-5 months old they enjoy the exersaucer for short periods of time.  There is plenty to keep a baby’s attention and is what I like to use when my babies outgrow the bouncy seat.
10. Portable crib/play yard:  I am not an advocate of putting a baby in a playpen for extended periods of time. Yet, there are times when they come in very handy. We have used our pack ‘n play as a crib when we have travelled.  They can also be nice if you are cooking and need a safe place for baby to play.

1. A Brand New Baby
2. Cord Care
3. Newborn Skin Conditions
4. Tummy Time
5. Clothing a Newborn
6. When You Suspect a Problem

I am linking this post to Top Ten Tuesday.