Baby Needs: What to Keep and What to Leave

We've never lived in anywhere that could really be considered large. When Maverick was a baby we lived in a one bedroom house for almost a year. If a place had lots of closet space, it was a lacking a bedroom or vice versa. Or if it had two bathrooms, it didn't have a place to do laundry. As in, we had to lug four loads a week to my mother-in-law's house. Right now we live in a two bedroom townhouse that was actually pretty perfect for our family of four. I'd kill (something) for a playroom or craftroom, but that's really my only complaint. But seeing as we have another little heathen on the way, our home is already starting to feel cramped.

Living in smaller spaces has shown me what a baby really needs and what is completely unnecessary. So here's my list of five must haves and their counterparts.

Must Have #1: Bath Cradle

Safety 1St Comfy Cushy Infant Bath Cradle

These are great because they are so versatile. It fits in the sink or the tub and folds up small enough to store under the sink or in the bathroom closet.

Don't Bother #1: 

A huge honking baby bath tub with all the toys and stuff attached to it. For one, you're gonna want to get the baby in and out as quickly as possible, so the toys are pointless. Two, it's too big to store. And they are more expensive than most cradle/sling type baths.

Must Have #2: Counter Top Bottle Dryer

Boon Counter Top Drying Rack

Not every place we've lived has had a dishwasher. We've had a couple of different kinds of racks, but I LOVE the Boon rack. Plus, it's very cute and kinda looks like an addition to your decor. 

Don't Bother #2:

You don't need a bottle sterilizer. You need counter space. Soap and hot water or a run through the dishwasher are perfectly adequate.

Must Have #3: Diaper Pail (that doesn't require special bags)

"Baby Trend Diaper Champ in Blue"

We have the older version (bought in 2006) of the Diaper Champ. I love it. It's one handed disposal and it doesn't take up very much space, plus it uses plain old 13 gallon trash bags. And ours is six years old and has made it through two kids without a problem. It contains odors pretty well, but we've always taken poopy diapers straight to our outside trash bin.

Don't Bother #3:

Any diaper pail that requires special bags. I can't wrap my mind around paying extra for something that is just holding dirty diapers.

Must Have #4: A Swing

"Open Top Cradle Swing in Rainforest Green"

This Fisher Price swing is wonderful. It swings back and forth and side to side. It plays music. It saved us many sleepless nights. And it plugs into the wall as well as running on batteries.

Don't Bother #4:

An activity center is a waste of money and eats up a ton of floor space. By the time the babies can use it there's like a 30 day window where they won't get bored in it. And they suck if you're baby has reflux, if ya know what I mean.

Must Have #5: Baby Sling

"Dr. Sears Baby Carrier Sling"

A sling is crucial, especially if you have more than one child. It seriously makes everything easier. Grocery shopping, vacuuming, just getting anything accomplished around the house. I like the sling, as opposed to the front carriers because they all were too big for me, but any baby wearing device is a lifesaver.

Don't Bother #5:

Don't worry about the cart or restaurant high chair covers. They are a pain. A small pack of antibacterial wipes takes up a lot less room and basically serves the same purpose.

So, there's my can't-live-withouts and why-do-these-even-exists. 

What are your's?

Thanks for stopping by!

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