If you’re expecting your first baby ever, or just your first baby in awhile, you’ll notice there’s a lot of new & improved baby products that are out on the market. In order to save you time digging through all of these items, scouring product reviews, and asking everyone that you know what they use, I’ve compiled a list of the must-have baby products for you in 2024 (going into 2025!). I’ve included my personal favorites, products my Instagram followers suggested, and recommendations from a large sample size of Little Rock mamas.
Let’s get into it. (P.S. – These are NOT affiliate links. Feel free to click and shop away. I don’t get anything from your purchases except the feeling of satisfaction that I’ve helped take one thing off your to-do list.)
My faves:
Keekaroo Changing Pad: This changing pad was amazing for us. Instead of having another thing to wash regularly (a cloth changing pad cover), the Keekaroo’s surface could be quickly and easily wiped clean with a baby wipe or soapy rag. We used the same one for both of our children because it was neutral and durable – still looked basically brand new even after we were done!
The Hatch Rest Sound Machine & Night Light: This sound machine and night light is the perfect combo for us. We can change the type and volume of sound, color and brightness of light, and turn the whole thing on and off from our phones. We have a schedule set up so that when it’s time to get ready for bed at night, their light turns on automatically to let them know – which has led to much fewer arguments surrounding bedtime. Small and easily portable (like in the car or to pack for Grandma’s house).
Pacifier loveys: They’re cute, affordable, and help their pacis stay in place when they’re at that age where they want their pacifier but keep accidentally spitting in out and can’t put it back themselves (IYKYK!). That makes these a win/win/win in our book.
I recommend using them with either these (my fave) or these (Insta’s fave) aesthetically-pleasing pacifiers. Your camera roll can thank me later 😉.
My Insta’s faves:
The Doona Car Seat & Stroller: I know you probably don’t want to hear it, but this splurge is worth it to most of the people I know. If you’ve ever had to transfer a (FINALLY) sleeping baby from the car seat to a separate stroller, you’ll know that, frankly, it’s almost impossible. A little heavy, but worth every penny.
The Boon Trove: The minute you start breastfeeding you realize that breastmilk is the TRUE “liquid gold.” The Boon Trove helps save every last drop and reduces the mess from passive let down.
Sleep Sacks: Let’s be honest – this is why you’re here. You want to know how in the world you’re going to be able to get your baby (*cough* yourself *cough*) some sleep. Sleep sacks help your baby feel protected, safe, and warm. For babies that like hands free, try the Kyte brand. For those that have an extra-strong Moro reflex and need a little help keeping those arms in check, go for the Zipadee Zip or Magic Merlin.
Little Rock’s faves:
Moby Baby Carrier Wrap: Fabric baby carriers are amazing because they’re so easy to throw in your diaper bag because they’re compact, are automatically adjusted to your body type because you’re the one that wraps it, and are simple to wash. Even if you have a more structured baby carrier already, adding a fabric one is a great option for around the house or those simpler outings.
The Itzy Ritzy Diaper Backpack: While I personally used a different brand, I loved using a diaper backpack instead of a regular bag because it gave me both hands free (because even when I put a regular bag on my shoulder, I’d have to keep pushing it back up when it would inevitably fall off every 30 seconds) and it was an option my husband felt comfortable using when he was either alone with the kids, or just helping take the literal weight off my shoulders. It is also nice that I’m able to use it long after my kids are past the “diaper bag stage.”
Ekouaer Button Front Nightgown: Ooooh boy am I glad that Little Rock agrees with me and loves this nightgown! I wore it when I was pregnant and couldn’t stand the feel of tight clothing on my body, when I was nursing because it was easy to unbutton the top few buttons, and I wear it now that I’m just a regular ol’ little kid mom. I didn’t even have to get a new size because the fabric is so stretchy. AND it’s affordable. A must-have product for baby? Maybe not. But for mom? Definitely.
The Nanit Pro Smart Baby Monitor: A monitor that you access through your phone. A Little Rock mom said:
“Was a great addition from my first kid to the second. It’s really reliable and clear. Has awesome features. You can buy the special sleep sacks and swaddles for them, and it monitors their breathing by watching the pixels on their sack move up and down. Cool technology. Pricey, but I’d buy it over again for sure.”
BAILEY FEELER PHOTOGRAPHY | PHOTOGRAPHER LITTLE ROCK
Bailey is a Little Rock-area serving maternity, newborn, and family photographer that offers laid-back luxury style portrait services. From session planning to delivering lifetime-quality prints and albums, Bailey takes care of all of the details. Bailey incorporates both digital and film photo mediums to create art with her subjects in a natural and timeless fashion.
To learn more about Bailey or the experience she provides for her clients, reach out here.
