What do I really need for baby?

This is honestly something I get asked about A LOT, but primarily from the first time moms So this post will be a compilation of all my holistic recommendations for baby needs for the first year!

**This post will contain affiliate links.

Things may have changed a bit since i had my last baby in 2007, but baby basics, in my opinion never change all that much. Ive always believed that less is more when it comes to baby care, but mostly after buying the fancy gadgets and toys that light up and make noise, to see that both of my children, and my friends kids always prefer the simplest items (hello the box the Christmas present came in, rather than the fancy thing in the box).

So in no particular order, here are some of my recommendations for baby!

One of the most important things you need for baby is something im quite passionate about...the car seat. I have a very strong opinion against infant seats, and I HAVE used them. I find that the use of a convertible car seat is much more economical, better for babys spine, and better for you as the parents as well. Here's a little article with more information about why we shouldn't let babies be in carseats for too long! https://www.consumerreports.org/babies-kids/child-safety/okay-for-babies-to-sleep-in-car-seats-a1715398377/

Here's my favorite, mid rage convertible carseat...it goes from 5 lbs to 120!!! https://amzn.to/4kdRlX3 the Britax One4Life convertible car seat is around $350 and you wont need to buy another one ever!

Erin, you may ask, how do I take my baby places if I cant carry the carseat with them in it, or attach it to a shopping cart, or a stroller base?! Well since you ask, my recommendation on that front is babywearing!

Keeping baby in a carseat for long stretches of time can be rough on their little bodies. Plus don't you want to just hold them close as much as possible? For the infant stage, my favorite kind of carrier is a stretchy wrap, and there are TONS on the market, this particular one on Amazon caught my eye because its a small business, PLUS the price point is great! https://amzn.to/462JKXF and its been acknowledged by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute!

Another point to make about baby wearing, is that not all carriers are made equally! There are many out there that dont support babys body in an optimal way either, and can cause hip dysplasia. Here's some more info about hip dysplasia...https://hipdysplasia.org/baby-carriers-other-equipment/

I would also recommend a soft structured carrier like the Ergo Baby and it even goes up to 25 lbs. It was a fave with my second daughter, and can be used as a back carrier ones baby can sit unassisted. https://amzn.to/4n61EPp

Baby’s sleep is one of the next most important topics but I think I’ll leave that for part two!!

Stay tuned!