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Minimalist Baby Registry Must-Haves

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Let’s talk Minimalism + Baby Registry. What do you really need for baby? We have a free checklist of what you need to put on your baby registry, but as the Beatles tune goes, “all you need is love.” In a baby’s case, it’s really true – all you need is love… and to be held and fed. If you talk to seasoned moms, they’ll all pretty much tell you the same thing: you really don’t need much for your newborn.  Plus, the current trend is to simplify & organize. For motherhood, this starts with your baby registry.

Gugu Guru’s list of essentials below focuses on high quality and practicality. For an expectant parent, “practical” can mean products that are versatile, multi-functional and possibly gender-neutral. Gear should be long-lasting, possibly portable, and not take up too much space.  Sometimes high quality can equate to a higher price tag, so we’ve listed a budget-friendly alternative below when possible.

Important Note: there are some essential items we’re leaving out altogether, such as bottles, pacifiers and diapers (there’s a strong likelihood you’ll have to try a few brands to figure out what brand works best for your babe) and clothing (chances are you’ll be gifted a lot of clothes.) We’re also not including breast pumps here because you should consult with Acelleron to determine what brands are available for free from your insurance.

BABYBJORN® Bouncer Bliss

Minimalist Baby Registry BABYBJORN® Bouncer Bliss

One item we recommend to every single parent is a bouncer. Our top recommendation is the BABYBJORN Bouncer Bliss. Its lightweight design is portable and folds flat. Your child will enjoy gentle, natural bouncing – no batteries or cords are needed, and Bouncer Bliss makes no noise. Use Bouncer Bliss from newborn and up to the age of two years. Once your child has learned to sit unaided, you can turn the fabric around and use it as a comfortable children’s chair. Splurge a little more for the toy bar that fits perfectly for added entertainment.
Looking for a budget-friendly alternative? Check out Baby Delight Alpine Deluxe Portable Bouncer

UPPAbaby VISTA V2 Stroller

The VISTA V2 Stroller  from UPPAbaby adapts as your family grows to accommodate your little one from birth through the toddler years. The versatile design can also be configured to conveniently transport up to 3 children to roll with life’s changing momentum.  You’ll also need the MESA car seat as well, which snaps right into the VISTA V2.

Not a fit for your budget? Check out The City Select Stroller from Baby Jogger, which like the VISTA, starts out as a full-featured single stroller but can be configured to accommodate up to 3 kids. Just make sure you have a compatible car seat and adaptor.

Solly Baby Wrap

Minimalist Baby Registry Solly Baby Wrap

Solly wraps are designed for the first year or up to 25 lbs, and the majority of babes get the most use during the first 9 months. Lightweight, easy to put on, Solly Baby wraps give you and your little one unparalleled closeness and comfort (read: “wrap naps” for hours), less crying (it’s proven!), and reduced rates of postpartum depression. Made in the USA and constructed from certified Lenzing modal, which is a lightweight, buttery soft and sustainable fabric sourced from the pulp of Austrian beechwood trees.

Not a fit for your budget? Check out the Baby K’tan Carrier, which takes the guesswork out of putting on a soft carrier.

Nuna CUDL

Keep your little one cuddled close while out and about with the Nuna CUDL. This modern carrier is easy to put on and gives you 4 ways to safely carry baby. The infant insert is built into the carrier, providing a much more comfortable fit for parent + baby.  Not a fit for your budget? Check out the Boppy ComfyFit Carrier.

Boon Naked Infant Tub

The Boon Naked Tub is perfect for bathing your precious newborn. Perfect for newborns – toddlers, this tub can sit on your counter, in your tub, or even in your shower. Drain the tub, and fold flat to hang for easy storage. Voila, bath time is complete! Of course, you’ll also need shampoo and body wash to actually get baby to be squeaky clean and for this, we recommend starting with something fragrance free for baby’s delicate skin.

Looking for something a bit more budget-consicous? Check out the Summer Deluxe Baby Bather

FridaBaby Bitty Bundle of Joy 4-Piece Kit

Minimalist Baby Registry FridaBaby® Bitty Bundle of Joy 4-Piece Kit

Gugu Guru LOVES FridaBaby products. The Bitty Bundle of Joy Kit is the perfect gift for new moms and moms to be in preparation for their little one. This kit features everyday essentials for you and your newborn like the absolute must-have NoseFrida Snotsucker and more. Pair with a couple of our other FridaBaby favorites, like the Rectal Thermometer and the Hairbrush + Styling Comb and you’ve got your basics covered.

Muslin Swaddle Blankets

Our Gugu Guru Concierge experts always put muslin swaddle blankets at the top of their must-have list. Initially, they are great for swaddling, but soon they will turn into your go-to for everything! Playmat? Check. Burp Cloth? Check. Feeding cover? Check. Keeping baby warm in the stroller on a chilly walk? Check! You will use these for years. We love the swaddle blankets by Rookie Humans, which will truly soften with every use.

Not quite in your budget? Check out the variety sets by aden + anais.

Keekaroo Peanut ChangerMinimalist Baby Registry Keekaroo Peanut Changer

We struggled with whether or not a diaper changing pad is really an “essential.” While we know that you can get a waterproof reusable changing pad to lay on your floor, we do love the convenience of a silicone changing pad. Easily placed on top of your dresser, the Keekaroo will round out your changing station. This modern changer wipes clean and does not require any extra covers.

Looking for a different option? We also love the Skip Hop Baby Changing Pad.

Crane 4-in-1 Cool Mist Humidifier and Sound Machine

For creating a healthy, peaceful sleeping environment almost every mom we polled recommends a white noise machine and a humidifier. Gugu Guru’s pick is always the Crane 4-in-1 Humidifier. With a combined top fill, cool mist humidifier and sound machine, and even a night light, we can’t say enough great things about this humidifier! Speaking of nursery ambiance, many parents also say that black out curtains are a must-have. At Gugu Guru, we think this may or may not be an essential for you.

Nanit  Pro Camera

Unless your baby will be sharing a room with you for the foreseeable future, a video monitor will give you great peace of mind. The Nanit Pro Camera is a techy minimalist’s dream! Using an app on your phone, you can check in on baby from anywhere. No more carrying around a monitor screen and staying ‘within range.’

Looking for a standard screen + camera monitor? Check out the Vava Video Baby Monitor.

Wanting something less costly? GoodBaby monitor on Amazon is a great video monitor!

ergopouch Cocoon Swaddle

Minimalist Baby Registry ergoPouch ergoCocoon

The ergoPouch swaddle is a minimalist’s dream with its 2-in-1 functionality; there are poppers in the armholes to transform from a swaddle to a sleeping bag.  Constructed with eco-friendly, breathable fabric, the simple zip-up design will keep baby snug and securely swaddled without the need for complicated wrapping or extra blankets.

Plain Onesies and Pajamas 

Minimalist Baby Registry Hanna Andersson Night Night Baby Sleepers In Pure Organic Cotton

We know we said no clothing on this list, but onesies and pajamas are each an exception to the rule. Skin-friendly undergarments are a necessity for your little one. They are easy to layer and quite practical. As far as pajamas, you’ll want to {strongly} consider zippers or magnetic closures, since snaps are frustrating during wee-hours diaper changes.  Gugu Guru founder, Monica, swears by Hanna Andersson’s Night Night Baby Sleepers, which she used for both of her kiddos. Our team also loves Magnetic Me, Little Sleepies, Kyte Baby, and Carters!

Green Sprouts Muslin Burp Cloths

Muslin Burp Cloths are at the top of our recommendations for every parent! They are soft (and get softer with every wash!), easy to clean, and hold up through every mess you may encounter. Green Sprouts has our absolute favorite burp cloth! They are big enough to sit comfortably on your shoulder and don’t shrink in the dryer. We LOVE these burp cloths!!

The Gerber Birdseye 10-Pack Cotton Prefolded Diapers are also a great set to have on hand and all around the home.

Minimalist Diaper Bag

Why buy a new diaper bag when you have so many great bags at home? With the a Totesavvy diaper bag insert, you can make any bag into your diaper bag! Fit inside any bag – from a small zip tote to Dad’s backpack. So easy to swap in and out! Looking for something that can stand alone? We also love the Belt Bag by Kibou and the TWELVElittle clutch.

High Chair

Inglesina Fast Table Chair

Comfortable as it is convenient, the Inglesina Fast Table Chair is a definite must-have for minimalists. Lightweight design features simple, twist-tight couplings compatible with most types of tables (up to 3.5″ thick).

Looking for a standard high chair that will grow with your little one? We love the Nomi High Chair.

Books

From Sandra Boynton to Dr. Seuss to Baby Einstein, there are too many amazing books out there to list in one blog post but the profound benefits of reading to your baby make books one of the most important minimalist essentials that you should add to your registry.

Other Items That *Might* Be Minimalist Baby Registry Essentials For You…

The following items may or may not be essentials for you depending on how much space you have in your home, frequency of travel and more.  If you are unsure about if these or any items are an essential for you, reach out to the experts at Gugu Guru and we will let you know.

  • Depending on whether baby will have his/her own nursery and how big that space is, you will need a crib and for minimalist purposes we recommend one that will grow with your child like the space-saving DaVinci Autumn 4-in-1 Convertible Crib, which also comes with an attached changer. For our minimalist mattress pick, we love the Newton Baby Crib Mattress.
  • A rocker/recliner chair like this Olive Upholstered Swivel Glider and Ottoman  from DaVinci. This could be a must-have if you plan to nurse (you’ll need a comfortable place to do so) and if you have a separate nursery for baby.
  • A 3-in-1 travel crib like this Graco Pack ‘n Play Playard with Reversible Napper and Changer. This playard is made with multitasking parents in mind. The soft and cozy napping station doubles as a changing table, which you can remove to transition into a spacious playard for your growing baby. This could be a must-have if you plan to have baby sleep in your room before moving him/her to a nursery and/or if you’re a frequent traveler.

Must Haves for Nursing and/or Pumping Moms…

Covered Goods 4-in-1 Multi-Use Cover

Covered Goods™ 4-in-1 Multi-Use Cover in Black/Ivory Stripes

Offering style and versatility, the Covered Goods 4-in-1 Multi-Use Cover functions as a nursing cover, car seat cover, scarf, and shopping cart cover. Attractively constructed of a comfortable, stretch fabric, the cover provides true all-over coverage.

bbhugme Nursing Pillow

Our favorite feeding pillow is hands-down the bbhugme Nursing Pillow. Not only does this pillow come in a variety of colors that will fit seamlessly into your home decor, it’s the perfect companion for breastfeeding/nursing at home, on travel, and simply wherever you are.

Other nursing essentials include:

Other Items That *Might* Be Essentials For Pumping Moms …

The following items may or may not be essentials for you depending on whether you’re planning to return to work, if you will be working away from home and other factors.  If you are unsure about if these or any items are an essential for you, reach out to the experts at Gugu Guru and we will let you know.

  • Multi-tasking moms will love the Kindred Bravely Hands-Free Nursing and Pumping Bra which allows to be hands free while you pump.
  • Providing everything you need to carry and organize your breast pump and accessories if you’re returning to work away from home, the Motif Medical Breast Pump Backpack.
  • For pumping moms, we LOVE the Kiinde Twist Gift Set. With the Twist system, pumping, storing, organizing and feeding is all done using the same pouch, completely eliminating the need for constant transferring of precious breastmilk.

Minimalism Tip #1:

Keep receipts! If you find you received a gift that you’re just not using, you can return it. Don’t cut tags off until the very last moment when you’re absolutely sure you’re going to use that item!

Minimalism Tip #2:

Skip the swing altogether. Some babies like swings and some babies hate them. Instead of spending money to find out what category your baby falls into, either check BST groups on Facebook or see if a friend can loan you one that her baby has grown out of. You can also just register for a swing and if your baby doesn’t enjoy it, go back to tip #1 – save receipts.

Minimalism Tip #3:

Also, don’t stock up on newborn size diapers or clothing. If your baby is bigger than expected s/he might not even fit into them. People tend to gift babies lots of clothing in general. Have one box on hand a few pairs of pajamas. Once baby arrives, you’ll know what sizing works.

Read more minimalist tips:
Nursery Trend Report: Minimalism
Must Have Baby Registry Items for New Parents
The Ultimate Target Baby Registry

Join our Mom Creator community by signing up for our email list and receive paid and gifted opportunities with your favorite baby and kid brands in your inbox weekly!

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Mom Creator Curations: The Best Baby Travel Gear

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Although wild weather and snowstorms seem to be spreading throughout the country, spring travel really is around the corner. We have reached out to our network of mom creators to help us discuss their must-have travel products for baby. See what they had to say below and for extra credit, give them a follow!

Plane Travel with Baby: Comfort

Anytime you head to the airport with baby, there can be a great deal of unpredictability. Flight delays, nap disruptions, and the inability to ‘exit’ can add a layer of stress to any travel day. Our mom creators have so many suggestions for keeping your little one busy on the plane. Take a look!

Feeding schedules can be a logistical nightmare when you’re flying with your little one. If you’re bottle feeding, be sure to bring extra breastmilk or formula in case of delays. Also, load up a few extra bottles in case you aren’t able to clean your bottles as you would at home. We prefer Nanobebe’s Flexy silicone bottles (like Madison C.), which are lightweight and leakproof. Their wide base makes them a great choice for travel as they are much sturdier while filling on the go.

A great carrier will make travel day a cinch. Something that’s comfy to wear and easy to put on is always our go-to recommendation. We also love something that folds up small to take up barely any space in your carry-on (which we know is already filled with TONS of snacks). Check out the Ergobaby Embrace or the Baby Bjorn Mini. As an added bonus, these will double as a nursing cover if you’re breastfeeding on takeoff or landing.

Travel with Baby: Simplicity

Toys to help keep your little one busy are always a hit. Fat Brain Toy Company’s Squigz and Whirly Squigz are a favorite for Shannon W. “They are easy to stick to the window, tray table, or even your own forehead! They are easy to clean and don’t take up much space.”

If you are looking for that great travel stroller with baby, look no further! Doona’s all-in-one car seat/stroller makes travel a breeze. Chelsea A. agrees – “The Doona makes everything easier!” The wheels pop right out from the infant seat, meaning you no longer have to travel with a car seat AND a stroller.

Go-Be Sleeves are also a must when traveling with littles. Keep those germs at bay with the easy-to-use tray table cover. See what Cassy A. has to say about this travel essential.

Looking for a more traditional travel stroller? Take a look at our highlight of Lightweight Travel Strollers.

Destination Essentials

Whether you’re taking that cross-country flight or jumping into the car for your annual road trip, let’s talk about some necessities at your destination.

If your destination doesn’t include a safe place for baby to sleep, be sure to pack one. We love recommending playards. They fold up and can move with you on the go. Check out the options by Graco, 4moms and Guava Family. Expert tip – Pair with a Slumberpod to create a dark sleep environment even when you’re sleeping in the same room!

A stroller wagon (check out the newest lineup from Larktale!) can be a game-changer when you’re traveling with your baby. Most stroller wagons will give you great push or pull access and they will also double as great storage. When you’re going to be active during the day, a stroller wagon will always fit the bill.

Lastly, travel with baby isn’t complete without your play and entertainment items. First, your playard can easily transform from sleep to play throughout the day. Looking to recreate your playmat? Grab a swaddle blanket, some teethers and stuffed animals and you’ve got an on-the-go activity mat.

If all else fails, Shannon B. swears by the Busy Baby Mat while traveling with her little one. “I have a 2 year old daughter, we are out and about often which often includes a stop for lunch. I never leave the house without our BusyBaby Mat! The bottle leash was super helpful when she was taking a bottle, so she couldn’t throw it!”

Looking for more?

Join our Mom Creator community by signing up for our email list and receive paid and gifted opportunities with your favorite baby and kid brands in your inbox weekly!

Interested in becoming a mom content creator or influencer but don’t know where to start? Join our monthly coaching membership specifically designed for mom creators.

Allergen-Free Round Up

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It’s allergy season but for babies that can be year-round. Babies’ skin is sensitive and there’s nothing worse than when they’re having an allergic reaction to something not food-related and you can’t figure out the cause. That’s why allergen-free products are not only healthy for baby but put your mind at ease, too! Read on about some of our favorite products for your baby registry that are allergen-free and then enter to win them all:

Bambo Nature Diapers

Bambo Nature
Looking for an allergen-free and eco-friendly way to diaper your baby, but still want disposable diapers? Bambo Nature is the perfect answer. Made to fit your baby’s growing body, these diapers are free from chlorine, perfumes, optical brighteners and lotions, as well as phthalates, latex, and gluten. Bambo Nature diapers feature a breathable back-sheet, which ensures that the skin can breathe, keeping the skin drier and less prone to rash or infection. Bambo Nature also features hypoallergenic baby wipes and training pants for older toddlers.

Breeze-All-Colors-Front
Lullaby Earth Breeze Mattress
Babies spend a lot of time sleeping (if you’re lucky!), so many parents are looking for allergen-free and healthy crib mattresses. Lullaby Earth Breeze mattresses are made without vinyl, PVC, and phthalates; they are also free of flame retardants, yet still pass all government flammability standards. In order to provide a waterproof barrier, Lullaby Earth uses food-grade polyethylene and does not contain any polyurethane foam, which is known to “off-gas,” and is not healthy for small babies. But, the best part of Lullaby Earth mattresses are that they are the only crib mattress to offer a breathable surface with a waterproof core; this means that they are completely allergy-friendly for even the most sensitive of babies.

Molly's Suds Starter Pack

Molly’s Suds
Started by a mom and nurse, Molly’s Suds features laundry powders, cloth diaper wash, and even dog shampoo – all of which are phthalate and fragrance-free, as well as aluminum free. Have a baby with super sensitive skin? You’re going to want to wash baby’s clothing and cloth diapers in Molly’s Suds. With their “no compromise” attitude, you can rest easy knowing that what your baby is wearing, swaddled in, and sleeping in all day long is washed with only healthy, non-toxic ingredients.

Join our Mom Creator community by signing up for our email list and receive paid and gifted opportunities with your favorite baby and kid brands in your inbox weekly!

Interested in becoming a mom content creator or influencer but don’t know where to start? Join our monthly coaching membership specifically designed for mom creators.

“Smart” Registry Round-Up

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Technology is great… when it works! Here we are to discuss some of our favorite “smart” baby products for 2023 that will absolutely make your life with kiddos easy peasy! 

Nanit Discount

Smart Baby Monitors

Gone are the days of the audio-only baby monitors that many parents used to rely on. Now, parents want real-time information about their little ones to keep worries at bay. The newest monitors on the market are able to give you clear video while tracking things like breathing and sleep. They will alert you when your baby wakes up in the morning, your toddler rolls over in bed, or your big kid jumps out of bed to use the potty. 

Nanit offers a sleek smart camera with a variety of stand options. They track sleep history and analytics to provide parents with insight into sleep patterns. Pair with their Breathing Wear to keep an eye on baby from anywhere!

We also love the smart monitor by Miku. They have come up with a way to monitor your little one (including breathing) without any wearables. Like Nanit, they have two-way audio and you can check in from anywhere. 

Hatch Grow Changing Pad (and Rest Sound Machine)

The biggest worry parents have for their newborn is if he or she is gaining enough weight. Parents tend to track every feeding, diaper, and milestone. However, tracking weight is generally done only at the pediatrician. The Hatch Grow Changing Pad allows you to monitor baby’s weight between pediatrician appointments. While it’s not a replacement for doctor’s weight visits, it will help ease your mind.

Hatch has also secured their place in the smart bedtime routine. Hatch Rest has become a must-have accessory for many of our families, who love to pair the nightlight/sound machine with their smartphone. The Rest + has a laundry list of features, and will last well beyond the toddler stage!

Blueberry Pediatrics

We’ve been at this COVID lifestyle for more than 2 years. As you’ve parented throughout the Pandemic, you have most likely dealt with other illnesses – RSV, Flu, Strep, Ear Infections, Colds, the list goes on. Wouldn’t it be nice to be connected to a team of Pediatricians who were available 24/7, 365 days a year so you could avoid unnecessary trips to the Emergency Room or Urgent Care when your pediatrician’s office is unavailable? You can! Blueberry Pediatrics provides access to pediatricians around the clock. They can help check your child out and even call prescriptions into your pharmacy. No longer worry about your little one getting sick in the evening (or on vacation, like our kids always do!). Don’t take our word for it! See what Cassy – a mom of 3 who spends lots of time at the pediatrician, has to say.

Join our Mom Creator community by signing up for our email list and receive paid and gifted opportunities with your favorite baby and kid brands in your inbox weekly!

Interested in becoming a mom content creator or influencer but don’t know where to start? Join our monthly coaching membership specifically designed for mom creators.

Zulay Henao International Toddler Travel Must-Haves

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Colombian-American film and television actress, activist and mama, Zulay Henao took a trip to her home country of Colombia over the holidays. Gugu Guru was so excited to get her geared up for a successful vacation with her toddler daughter, Kennedy, that she shares with her fiancé actor Kevin Connolly.  Here, Zulay shares the products that made her trip smooth sailing with a toddler in tow:

Ok we did it! We traveled internationally, to Colombia, my birth country for the holidays with extended family, multiple babies and two travel legs each way! CRAZY, but we did it and we did it well!

Leading up to any large , overwhelming and long distance trips there is always so much planning, logistics etc. involved it is easy to forget the small intricacies that come into play when traveling with a toddler. In my case, my daughter Kennedy is 19 months old and is DYNAMIC, HONEY! HA, HA, I mean that in the best way! She is active and loves to explore. Here is the bottom line, traveling with any child of varied temperaments and personalities will come with its challenges! Thank God for the internet, friends, and amazing brands who can offer advice and products that truly save the day!

I of course went straight to my first-time mom, go to resource for all things baby. Yep, you guessed it- Gugu Guru, and they did not disappoint.

Amigas, here are my top SUPER STAR brands and products that can make your next trip more enjoyable for both you and your little one(s)!

First on my list!

The JOOLZ AER Travel Stroller

This stroller hit all of the checkmarks for me and far exceeded my expectations.

  • airplane compliant
  • lightweight at 13.4 lbs!
  • easy one hand fold (seriously)
  • and as CHIC AS CHIC gets…

The JOOLZ AER maneuvers beautifully. Kennedy especially loved the bumper bar, as she is very independent and loves to have autonomy and agency to move around!
Medellin is a huge city with a lot of attractions that require a lot of tight space maneuvering, like small pueblos, cobble stone streets and tiny coffee shops. The JOOLZ was amazing for it all! It was so lightweight I was able to push with one hand and enjoy a cup of cafecito while taking in all the beauty around me! Check out this coffee shop in Santa Fe de Antioquia, a stunning colonial cobblestone town just 35 miles outside of Medellin.

This stroller is award winning and uses sustainable products which is a win win, and there is no compromise in comfort, design and storage space. I loved the sage green and Kennedy was comfortable for both sightseeing, and yes, SLEEP!

Medellin features a lot of outdoor attractions that require a substantial amount of walking. We started at the Comuna 13, a barrio once considered one of the most dangerous cities in the world run by drug cartels, is now considered a beautiful kaleidoscope of art and culture. Afterwards, we headed to a night out on a Chiva (a Colombian party bus) to see the world famous Medellin River Christmas light exhibit. Of course we did both, back to back! After 15 years of not visiting, we all wanted to witness the growth and evolution of the country.

For these types of outings you need a back up plan! You can only expect a baby to sit in a stroller for so long, right?

Meet the Mia Mily Hipster Hip Seat Carrier

It is award winning and ergonomically designed to support full baby weight and protect mamas back!

I can’t fully express how grateful I am for this product! This would have been an entirely different trip had I not been able to walk around with Kennedy comfortably. I have dealt with lower back pain due to an injury when I was in my twenties which has been intensified since giving birth via c-section! (If you’re in this boat with me, DM me, let’s start a support group!) We went from the Comuna 13 tour to our night out on the Chiva. With multiple walkable stops throughout the Medellin River, the back and hip support, as well as minimalist design for less baggage and overall obstruction of fashionable outfits (lol, yes this matters to me) was great.

A+ on this product all around! The carrier also includes storage space for your phone or diaper changing essentials. I loved our beautiful and colorful CHIVA! This picture was taken in front of one of many beautiful murals in Comuna 13 , that depicted peace and love!

Next on my baby travel SUPER STAR line up

The Luli Bebe Diaper Bag + travel set! Let me start with the obvious, Luli Bebe made sure that style & elegance were not compromised. The matching diaper bag, travel bag and snack bag are beautifully designed and all made of vegan leather!

This is clearly a mom owned business because they covered it all! The Monaco diaper bag is lined with wipeable satin (very luxe), has enough compartments to keep yourself organized (we all know how difficult this can be). My favorite features are the stroller straps that made it super easy to attach to my JOOLZ and I love that I could easily carry it multiple ways.

I absolutely loved the snack bag, which as you can see from the above picture is also versatile enough to configure for stroller or carry in other ways. This snack bag is not small by any means, I was able to pack juice boxes, fresh fruit, milk, and perishable pouches for the long travel days and everything was kept fresh/cool/hot. This is my favorite item of the set!

The Monaco travel bag (not pictured) was a life saver, as we did a lot of weekend trips to different pueblos and fincas (country homes). It was spacious enough to fit both my stuff and Kenny’s for a weekend trip without the need for extra luggage!

This was at our 4 hour layover in Mexico City! I was able to offer Kennedy a variety of fresh Once Upon a Farm and Little Bellies snacks while waiting in line to go through immigration.

A few must haves while traveling with a toddler

Toys, sanitizing wipes, more toys, snacks and a baby massager (YES, READ ON).

Thanks to PlanAire, I was able to safely sanitize all travel spaces and beyond. They’re made with 99% plant based ingredients & no added alcohol or ammonia. I conveniently carried their spray bottle in my stroller caddy to safely disinfect all surfaces and sanitize messy, curious hands. The wipes were great as well.

Toys for Travel

A variety of toys are a mom’s best friend from long flights to hotel rooms and beyond! Kennedy is a big fan of stickers, we love you Mudpuppy, thank you! Here she is enjoying stickers, puzzles, and toy time!

And now meet KAHLMI the worlds first baby massager! In full transparency I was hesitant at first, but I was intrigued. I first introduced Kahlmi at home after a small tantrum, which is how they suggest you do it and it was magic! Her sad face suddenly turned into a soft gentle and relaxing smile.

This handheld baby massager was developed by a certified infant massage instructor and approved by pediatricians and wellness experts. Here is Kennedy enjoying a gentle, self-administered massage while sitting in Medellin traffic. Genius!

Until next time my beautiful Medellin!

THE END & happy traveling!

I hope you enjoyed my list of SUPER STAR baby travel recommendations! Thank you so much Gugu Guru for doing what you do and taking all of the guess work and anxiety out of shopping for baby products. Period!

Thank you to Zulay Henao for writing this guest post!

Join our Mom Creator community by signing up for our email list and receive paid and gifted opportunities with your favorite baby and kid brands in your inbox weekly!

Interested in becoming a mom content creator or influencer but don’t know where to start? Join our monthly coaching membership specifically designed for mom creators.

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Our Favorite Black Owned Baby Businesses

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We are showcasing some of our favorite black owned baby companies. We teamed up with gorgeous mama, actress Jazmyn Simon, to chat about these brands and take a closer look at their amazing products. Want to see for yourself? Head to her Instagram and check it out, and read below for more info on these fantastic black owned businesses: @jazmynsimon

For Baby

gender neutral teethers

Pretty Please Teethers: How gorgeous are these teethers and pacifier clips? They’d make a perfect baby shower gift! Plus, they offer more than just teethers from feeding items to bath toys to play toys. Follow on Instagram: @prettypleaseteethers

Stina & Mae: Stina & Mae makes amazing organic baby products, which include blankets, bibs, burps, newborn gift boxes, changing pads, and much more.  At the inception, Stina & Mae has set out to create social impact at every level of the company.  Their products are good for baby and the planet.

Darlyng & Co.: If you’re looking for simple everyday essentials for babies and toddlers, Darlyng & Co, a black owned business, is the place to go! Their ultimate goal is to simplify parenting through their unique product designs. Founded by Carl and Tara Darnley, Darlyng & Co creates baby essentials that are sure to simplify your life and bring much joy to your little one. One of our favorite products is their Alphabet Affirmation Cards for kids. Darlyng & Co has been featured on the Steve Harvey Show, Pregnancy and Newborn Magazine, Essence, Black Enterprise, and Marie Claire.

Partake Foods: Partake Foods was founded by a mom when she discovered her daughter had food allergies; she wanted to create a snack food that they could travel with, party with, and live every day with, which is safe for any child with food allergies. Partake Foods are free of the Top 9 Allergens (wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, milk, eggs, soy, fish, sesame and shellfish); as well as free of mustard, sulfite, and nightshade free. They are also certified gluten free and vegan – meaning they can truly be enjoyed by everyone together! Community and cookies? We’re down for that! You can see more about Partake Food in our foodie gift guide.

For Mom

The Stork Bag: If you’re looking for the perfect gift for a pregnant mama in your life, we’ve been fans of The Stork Bag for years and Jazmyn was thrilled to get her third trimester bag. The Stork Bag is not only a black owned business, but is your one stop shop for anything a mama might need in her pregnancy journey. You can select the subscription that works for you; The Stork Bag hand-picks trimester specific products to meet your trimester and postpartum needs. Simply tell The Stork Bag your due date and trimester dates and you’ll receive a perfectly curated Stork Bag every trimester! The Stork Bag provides three different tiers of product collections for each trimester, as well as specialty boxes such as the glam box and the foodie box. The Stork Bag was founded in 2014 by Ericka Perry and has been a phenomenal success since, sending Stork Bags to hundreds of mothers; you can learn more about The Stork Bag and Ericka Perry on our Momprenuer Spotlight, too.

Matrescence: Matrescence, by definition, is the process of becoming a mother. This transition requires lots of self-care, and that’s where Matrescence comes in. When it comes to self-care for moms, we love suggesting Matrescence. It is the ultimate gift for new moms, as it is a fantastic way to help women transition their skin and life from pre-pregnancy, to pregnancy, to post-partum life and skincare. We just wrote about their Rose Glow Mini Kit in our Self-Care Gift Guide, and Jazmyn has been a big fan of Matrescence for helping keep her skin bright, clear, and smooth. Their cleansers, brightening essences, and hydrating soufflé creams will make you feel luxurious and cared for, no matter where you are on your pregnancy journey. Conceived by a fellow mom and prenatal wellness expert, Matrescence’s botanical line will help you safely give birth to radiant, healthy skin and feel more confident and vibrant throughout pregnancy and motherhood.

Milky Mama: Created by Registered Nurse Krystal Nicole Duhaney, Milky Mama provides mamas with lactation support and products. When Krystal returned to work after her second child and began experiencing supply issues, she turned to homemade lactation cookies. After seeing great results and birthing a desire to help women in her shoes, Milky Mama was created. Today Milky Mama has a wide range of products from sweet treats to smoothies to supplements, but what’s more, is that Milky Mama has also fostered a community of lactation support through weekly Facebook chats and a support group.

Eu’genia Shea Butter: Founded by a mother and daughter, Eu’Genia Shea is family-run and dedicated to all-natural, premium shea butter moisturizers. We are fans of theirs for so many reasons, but especially because they are dedicated to fair wages and opportunities for their female workers in Ghana and they donate 15% of profits to an education fund. Shea butter is known for so many things, such as preventing stretch marks, hydrating skin, and making you feel luxurious and smooth.

Apparel

Twindollicious: Twindollicious, a black owned business, was founded by a twin mama in 2012 as a way to show off her twin daughters’ styles, and has evolved into a fun shop for girls, featuring accessories, clothing, and more. Jazmyn loves her mommy & me Any2CanBe Twindollicious & Co Charm Bracelet/Anklet to wear with her older daughter. Twindollicious has been featured on ABC, FOX, NY FAMILY, PARENTS.COM, and more.  Twindollicious has a mission to inspire, motivate and support the creation of a healthy, happy and fun bonded lifestyle. They encourage friendship and love as well as sharing of commonalities through the inspiration of fashion and lifestyle stories. Their mission is to give back and spread their message in the friendliest way! They also offer beyond adorable clothing for little girls, that will help them feel strong, empowered, and playful! Founder, Natasha Danna is also a published author of several children’s books, also available on their website.

City Kidz: We are obsessed with the amazing boutique kids’ clothing from City Kidz! Their our collection is carefully curated, kid-tested and mom-approved. Follow on Instagram: @city.kidz

gender neutral baby clothing

Yinibini Baby: We cannot get over the adorableness of the gender-neutral baby and toddler clothes from Yinibini Baby! Follow on Instagram: @yinibinibaby

Coco’Pie Clothing: Natural hair tees for kids? Count us in! Love these empowering shirts! Follow on Instagram: @cocopieclothing

Toys

Brown Toy Box: Culturally affirming toys, books, and activities that make STE[A]M accessible, representative and fun for Black children. Follow on Instagram: @browntoybox

HarperIman Dolls: The Gugu Guru team was swooning over these adorable dolls! There are so many to choose from, we couldn’t pick a fave. Now available at Target! Follow on Instagram: @harperimandolls

Just Like Me! Boxes: A book box subscription that empowers Black children by exposing them to books with characters that look just like them! The subscription is designed to grow with children over time. Follow on Instagram: @justlikemebox

 
 

 
 

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Eco-Friendly (and Affordable) Baby Registry Picks

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Since organic often carries a high price tag, Gugu Guru gets a lot of inquiries about affordable eco-friendly baby registry picks on a tighter budget. The first simple step you can take toward leaving a smaller footprint, is just buying less for baby. Below, we have laid out some of our top eco-friendly must-haves from brands we know and love. While you may be willing to splurge on a few of these categories, we also have included some excellent budget-friendly must-haves. 

Eco-Friendly Stroller/Car Seat Picks:
On-the-go parents want easy-to-use strollers and car seats that will also be safe for their little ones. Looking for full-size? Check out Bumbleride. They have a number of stroller options (including an excellent double stroller for multiples and a jogging stroller for runners!) all made from recycled materials. We love their focus on sustainability. 

Looking for something a bit lighter and cost-effective? Here at Gugu Guru, we can’t say enough good things about Larktale. Their Chit Chat and Chit Chat Plus are made from recycled materials, allowing you to stroll green from your newborn days. They are also extremely lightweight, making them a great option for everyday use, in and out of the car, and travel!

When looking at Infant Car Seats, it’s important to pick one that is compatible with the stroller you have selected. With car seats, we are looking at the chemicals used in production as well as non-toxic materials being used. We love car seats that use natural fire-retardant fabrics and often find ourselves recommending these over many others! Nuna, Britax, Clek, and Chicco all have excellent car seat options!

Still have questions? Contact us for help!

Eco-Friendly Baby Carrier Picks: 
As a first step, to identify the best product for you personally, try locating a Babywearing International chapter to attend a meeting to try some on. We often recommend the Tula Free to Grow, Baby K’tan Organic wrap (note: you have to choose a size for the K’tan) and Beco Gemini Organic carriers to our eco-friendly families.

Eco-Friendly Crib Mattress Pick:
Crib mattress recommendations are something we often discuss at length with our eco-friendly families. While there are many brands we love, we always want to make sure you are looking for the Greenguard GOLD certified label on any crib mattress. This will ensure that while your little one is sleeping, the mattress is emitting the lowest levels of VOCs. We also recommend looking for 2-sided mattresses and lastly, look at the weight of your crib mattress. It is very difficult to lift a 30+lb mattress out of the crib for middle-of-the-night sheet changes. We highly recommend taking a look at mattresses by Colgate and Nook.

Eco-Friendly Diaper Pail Pick: 
The Ubbi Diaper Pail not only keeps in the lovely diaper smell but also saves you money as you can use standard 13-gallon trash bags as a liner. This eco-friendly pail is made of steel and comes in several different colors to perfectly match your babe’s nursery.

Eco-Friendly Bathtub Pick: 
BPA, PVC, and Phthalate-free, the Puj Tub fits right into the sink. Great for travel and apartment living too, as it folds flat and can fit in your suitcase!

Eco-Friendly Swaddle blankets Pick:
Swaddle blankets will be EVERYTHING to you from birth and beyond and we love the ones by Rookie Humans. The perfect swaddling blanket made from sustainable bamboo, you can also use as a breastfeeding cover or a light layer during walks. You will use these well into toddlerhood and beyond. Highly recommend these blankets as a must-have on every registry!

Eco-Friendly Playard/portable crib Pick: 
The Guava Lotus Travel Crib and Portable Baby Playard portable crib and playard combo has breathable mesh sides that unzip for even more fun for your kiddo as s/he gets older. It is non-toxic and is free of PVC, lead, and flame retardants, and is certified to the GreenGuard Gold standard.

Healthynest Diapering Program

Eco-Friendly Diaper Picks:
HealthyNest Diapers is the newest to the gang. The world’s first EWG Verified diaper, you can feel comfortable putting your little one in HealthyNest diapers. They are soft, not too bulky, and do an excellent job at keeping messes contained.

Honest Company Diapers are also made with sustainable materials that are super-absorbent. The core is made of fluff pulp harvested from sustainably managed forests. The diaper does prevent most leaks and blowouts. Honest diapers are made without chlorine or bleach processing, without latex, synthetic fragrances, or lotions. Not to mention, the prints are to die for!

Top 5 Must-Have Essentials: First Night Home With Baby

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What do you really need when bringing baby home from the hospital? Obviously, you won’t need your high chair, convertible car seat, or even the bulk of your little one’s clothing. But there are a few things that you’ll want to have on hand to make your transition to parenthood seamless for you and baby.

A Safe Place to Sleep + Swaddle

It’s easy to forget about setting up a safe place to sleep, as it’s both so obvious and necessary. We look to the AAP when discussing safe sleep recommendations, and follow the ABC’s of safe sleep.

A- Alone : Baby should sleep in his/her sleep environment on their own.
B- Back: Put baby down to sleep on his/her back.
C- Crib: On a firm, flat environment, like a crib (or bassinet/playard) without any extra blankets, stuffed animals, or bumpers.

Baby should also be swaddled tightly with a swaddle blanket or a wearable swaddle.

Easy Clothing Options

It is so hard to avoid buying clothes for your little one. But, the reality is that it’s best to hold off on purchasing too much. Once you know how your little one is growing, it’ll be easier to buy clothes for the right size and season. Stick with onesies and PJs that are easy to get on/off. Check out our full overview of Newborn Clothing here.

Diapers, Wipes, Ointment

Diapers, wipes, and ointment may seem obvious, but sometimes they’re the easiest items to forget. Stock up on one box of newborn diapers and a box of size one. While you may need to order more newborn diapers, all diaper sizing will overlap and you don’t want to end up with too many extras. One container of ointment is great for the start, but stock up on wipes. You will use them for years!

Feeding Supplies

Larken The Signature Tank

No matter how you are planning to feed your little one, you will want to be stocked with the right supplies. Like every other category, be careful not to overbuy. You won’t need breastmilk storage on day one, but you will want to have your nursing bras/tanks if breastfeeding. If you’re bottle-feeding, you may want to buy bottles in both small and large sizes. However, you really only need large bottles. You can always fill with a small amount of breastmilk or formula! And, make sure to purchase slow flow nipples if your large bottle doesn’t come with them. If you’re going to pump, plan on securing your breast pump before your little one arrives.

Postpartum Care for Mama

It’s easy to spend all of our time and energy putting together the necessities for our little ones, but don’t forget about yourself! You have just delivered a new baby (or possibly babies) and you will need to have some postpartum necessities to make yourself a bit more comfortable. Disposable Underwear, Perineal Spray (or Balm), and Organic Cotton Pads will make you feel just a bit closer to normal.

If you’re recovering from a C-Section, take a look at our Recovery Must-Haves.

Mom-Founded Brands

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Supporting and empowering women is one of Gugu Guru’s core values. As a mom-founded brand ourselves (Shoutout to Monica!), we are always looking to build up other women in the workplace. Moms are incredible. We are strong, determined, and excellent at getting stuff done. As we enter Women’s History Month, we want to rally our support behind some wonderful mom-founded brands.

Birth Queen Organization

Throughout the month, we will be supporting Birth Queen, an organization (founded by mom, Rachel Nicks) working to educate, support, and empower black women & families throughout the birth experience. Their doulas, lactation consultants, and midwives are extensively trained to help combat the maternal health crisis targeting black mothers. Please support Birth Queen by shopping with Gugu Guru and rounding up your purchase at check out.

Baby Bottle Brush Bib Co.

Necessity is the best invention and founder, Bessie Lee-Cappell has nailed it! Keeping you dry while using that bottle brush, this sleek piece of silicone will protect you from the “dreaded splash-back” when trying to scrub bottles, nipples, and pacifiers. They have also expanded their product line to include pacifier/teether clips and bottle brushes.

Matrescence

Matrescence is all about taking care of Mom, founded by mom, Raquel Nowak. They have created a number of skincare products safe for any stage of the parenting journey. An excellent way to promote a little self-care each day.

Clover Baby & Kids

Clover Baby & Kids PEACE Zip Footie | Sleep And Play | Newborn - 24M

Founded by two moms, Shannon & Nikki, Clover Baby & Kids creates high-quality, fashionable clothing items for your little ones to wear for sleep and play. Their extensive line of clothing and accessories is full of fun colors and patterns, great for any aesthetic.

Healthybaby

Founder (and experienced Mom) Shazi Visram has always created high-quality brands and products that focus on some level of activism. Healthybaby has products for diapering, cleaning, and skincare that will protect both your baby and the environment. Their diapers received rave reviews from our testers!

Pediped

Pediped was founded by parents who wanted a better baby/toddler shoe on the market. Mom, Angela Edgeworth created shoes that are both stylish and functional. Pediped shoes are great for inside play and on-the-go adventures. They have now expanded into a full shoe line for babies, toddlers, and children.

Luli Bebé

Baby gear can be both practical and gorgeous! Founder & Mom, Arpi Kachatryan created Luli Bebé to support moms throughout their motherhood journey. It all started with Luli Bebé’s gorgeous Monaco Diaper Bag and has now grown into a gorgeous line of stylish bags for mom.

Lulla Doll

Designed in Iceland, by Mom Eyrún Eggertsdóttir, the Lulla Doll was inspired by premature babies to bring comfort to little ones. Parents and little ones both love the Lulla Doll, which is suitable to use from birth (outside of the crib/sleep environment).

GoSili

GoSili creates reusable products you use every day. Founders, Giuliana Schwab and Stacey Feeley have launched an entire line of silicone products, meant to replace the abundance of plastics. We love their cups and feeding products!

Do you love more mom-founded brands? Please share in the comments!