Baby Registry

8 Postpartum Care Must-Haves for Mama

Just in time for Mother’s Day, here is Gugu Guru’s round-up of postpartum care must-haves. If you’re a pregnant mama due this month (or really anytime of the year), you’ll want to treat yourself to these postpartum care items. If you know an expecting mama, then grab all these products and make her the ultimate postpartum care package ever for Mother’s Day.

1. Frida Baby, Fridet (The Momwasher)
After a vaginal delivery, postpartum care in the perineal area (or “down there care”) is imperative to feeling good and makes going to the bathroom a little more tolerable. The problem is at the hospital they give you a squeeze bottle that you have to bend over awkwardly and use upside down and it just isn’t easy to get the comfort you need. With the Fridet, all you have to do is add some warm water and, if you’d like, a drop or two of witch hazel and thanks to the curved neck you can get the water in all the right spots. (For the ultimate baby care kit, be sure to check out the brand’s Baby Basics Kit.)

2. Earth Mama Organics Postpartum Care Products
Whether you need their Periodic Tea to help soothe you throughout the day, their Herbal Sitz Bath to soothe your perineal area or their Skin & Scar Balm to reduce the appearance of a c-section scar you can feel confident in the postpartum care products by Earth Mama. All their products are natural, organic and herbal products created by a nurse & herbalist to really help mothers in their time after giving birth. (Even long after you recover your lips might be addicted to their all-natural lip balm!)

3. Pariday TendHer Perineal Packs
Whether you are recovering from a vaginal delivery or a c-section delivery the TendHer Perineal Packs by Pariday are a postpartum care must-have for all day relief. The TendHer reusable perineal packs can be used as hot or cold packs to relieve your perineal area, for hemorrhoid pain relief or c-section incision relief. The sleeves can be rinsed and reused and they are discreet enough you can tuck them into your underwear. The all-natural gel packs can be reused for up to 8 weeks of postpartum care and relief.

4. UpSpring Post Baby Panty
While most new moms leave the hospital still rocking mesh panties they don’t give much support after delivery. UpSpring Post Baby Panties are made of a medical grade compression that will help to reduce swelling and give your belly the support it needs after pregnancy. If you are recovering from a c-section UpSpring makes the same great panty but with a silicone panel that will provide incision pain relief and aid with scar healing.

5. Mambino Organics Mommy Care Pack
After delivery, it isn’t just the skin on your belly that needs care. A lot of women experience real changes in their skin after delivery and Mambino Organics is formulated to nourish and smooth skin from head to toe. This care pack includes products that will take care of the appearance of stretch marks, give your face its youthful glow back and moistures and tone your skin. Each of these products is only made from organic ingredients and all smell AH-MAZING. You may not get to the spa after you delivery but you can pretend for a few minutes!

6. Bamboobies Washable Nursing Pads
One of our favorite products for breastfeeding and pumping mamas, these nursing pads are not only super absorbent but they are super soft and gentle on your changing breasts. Bamboobies come in a thin variety for day-time use and a thicker, more absorbent variety for overnight and with either one you can be confident you are going to be able to avoid embarrassing leaks. Machine washable and easy to use, these nursing pads might seem like a small item but they will definitely make a big difference in your daily comfort and postpartum care routine.

7. Soma Glass Water Bottle
Hydrating is one of the best things you can do yourself when you are postpartum. Make sure to keep a water bottle close at all times so you can get the recommend 6-8 glass of water in each day. The Soma Glass Water Bottle is made of shatter proof glass and has a stylish, grippy silicone sleeve so you won’t mind carrying it around with you.

8. Belabumbum Nursing Cami & Pant Set
While you are home recovering you want to be super comfortable but that doesn’t mean you have to wear sweatpants or oversized t-shirts. Belabumbum makes beautiful, soft, comfortable and super functional pajamas and lounge wear that you will be happy to snuggle baby in. We love the cami and pant made from ethically sourced 100% pima cotton jersey so you will stay cool at night but still feel covered. There is easy access to nursing with the under bust pull-up and the straps are adjustable so you can make sure you are always comfortable. Learn more about these must-have maternity pajamas in this post.

About the author:

Julie McCaffrey is a proud mommy to 3 kids, including one set of twins and owns BabyNav Baby Planners where she offers personalized consultation to new and expecting parents across the U.S.. She is a sought after modern baby gear expert, has been featured in Pregnancy and Newborn magazine, Fit Pregnancy, US News and World Report, and loves to help moms and dads navigate everything from baby gear to creating their registry to preparing for multiples and getting back to work.

Baby Food Recipe Books For Your Registry

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When it comes to feeding your baby solid foods, and their eventual transition to feeding themselves, we always turn to Jenna Helwig’s two baby food recipe books, Real Baby Food and Baby-Led Feeding. Jenna Helwig is not only the author but she’s also the food editor at Parents magazine, so you could venture to guess that she really knows her stuff when it comes to baby food recipe information, infant nutrition and feeding approaches. When it comes to finding a baby food recipe or two that work for your little one, Jenna Helwig’s books are a wealth of information and education – many parents tell us that even they love to eat the baby food recipe that they make for their little one!

Jenna Helwig’s first baby food recipe book, Real Baby Food, is a must-have for new parents (and one of our favorite gender neutral baby shower gifts), and even gets the seal of approval from chef and mom, Nikki Dinki. Real Baby Food makes the art of creating a baby food recipe so simple, even for busy moms and dads. Jenna Helwig guides you through the early days of simple foods, to adding spices to your baby food recipe, meats, flavors, and even multi-flavor blends like Salmon, Kale, and Sweet Potato Smash. With over 100 baby food recipes in the book, your little one is sure to have a head-start on their culinary palate!

Jenna Helwig’s second baby food recipe book, Baby-Led Feeding is a must have essential to help you plan your baby’s transition into finger foods; Baby-Led Feeding helps parents navigate the way to naturally raising happy, independent eaters, and working together to make mealtime a happy and joyful time. Gugu Guru’s founder, Monica, did a video overview of Baby-Led Feeding, where she shows off some of the gorgeous baby food recipe photography, ideas, and discusses the helpful guidelines Jenna includes, as well.

With more than 100 ideas and baby food recipes, Baby-Led Feeding is a must have for any foodie mom or dad. One of the things we love about Jenna’s books is they’re beautifully designed, and Baby-Led Feeding is no exception. This bright, photo-driven book includes chapters on the benefits of this approach, when and how to get started, essential safety and nutrition guidelines, frequently asked questions, basic fruit and vegetable prep, more complex finger foods, and family meals. Plus, all recipes in Baby-Led Feeding have been reviewed by a registered dietitian and include nutrition information to ensure a healthy mealtime.

Set yourself up for success when it comes to creating and making a baby food recipe that your little one loves, as Jenna Helwig helps parents navigate this new journey of helping your baby learn to not only love food, but love the process of cooking, and eating together, too! We love giving Jenna Helwig’s baby food recipe books for baby showers, as they become a cookbook staple for your family.

Best Wrap Carrier for Active Mamas

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When a new baby comes along, it’s tempting to stay put in the Newborn Lockdown stage and hunker down with Netflix, but often times there are other kids to tend to, dinner to be made, and maybe even those evening walks with your favorite dog as the sun goes down. With a wrap carrier for baby, you can resume your active lifestyle postpartum and keep baby close in the wrap carrier! The Baby K’tan Active Carrier is a wrap carrier essential for baby registries of all lifestyles, whether suburban or urban, working mom or stay-at-home, the Baby K’tan Active wrap carrier is your ticket to keeping up with all of your favorite activities and events, whatever your active style.

One of the reasons we’re such big fans of the Baby K’tan Active wrap carrier is that it is incredibly easy to use. The Baby K’tan Wrap Carrier has a patented double-loop design that’s quick and simple to put on and take off with no buckling and no fussing with rings or snaps. Just slip it on like a t-shirt and comfortably carry baby from birth to toddlerhood in 5 different wearing positions. Plus, it is washable and very easy to travel with; no giant pieces of fabric or buckles to tuck into your diaper bag; it’s basically like packing an extra t-shirt!

The Baby K’tan Active wrap carrier is ideal for parents who love to get outside and stay active; it may seem that you would get overheated while carrying baby in a wrap carrier, but not with the Baby K’tan Active wrap carrier. The Baby K’tan Active carrier is made from a hi-tech performance fabric that wicks away moisture and sweat while blocking over 90% of the suns UVA and UVB rays – keeping baby and mom extra cool and protected when out and about. Furthermore, the Baby K’tan Original carrier is made from 100% all-natural cotton fabric, so you will stay cool and baby won’t get overheated in the wrap carrier. Each carrier type is available in a variety of lovely colors and patterns, so you are sure to find something which fits your personal style!

Baby K’tan Weekender Diaper Bag , Baby K’tan Newborn Swaddle, Baby K’tan Diaper Bag

We’re big fans of Baby K’tan because their mission is to make life easy for parents, whether it is with their simple wrap carrier which feels like a t-shirt, their Weekender Diaper Bag which holds pretty much everything you may need (and the kitchen sink), their Baby K’tan Diaper Bag which features 2 antibacterial pockets, 2 insulated bottle pockets, exterior water bottle and cell phone pockets, built-in antibacterial wet bag, and more, or their Newborn Swaddle, made of an innovative breathable stretch fabric – when it comes to essentials for your baby, Baby K’tan truly has you covered.

Check out some of our other posts featuring Baby K’tan:

New Year, New You with Baby K’tan
Top 5 Must Have Essentials: Baby’s First Airplane Flight

Best Bassinets for Babies: Gugu Picks

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Bassinets for babies are more popular than ever these days due to one of the 2016 safe sleep recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) being that infants sleep in the same room as the parents for at least the first six months and, optimally, for the first year of life, based on the latest evidence. So, unless you don’t have a nursery at all, you’ll likely need a sleeping arrangement for your bedroom as well. Here, we’ve rounded up the best bassinets for babies in 2018 according to Gugu Guru’s experts:

Gugu Pick for Best all Around: SNOO Smart Sleeper
While this bassinet may seem very expensive compared to other bassinets for babies on the market, when you break it down it is actually only around $5 a day for additional sleep for you and baby! The SNOO Smart Sleeper is a very safe bassinet with mesh walls, protective swaddle wings that ensure that baby stays on their back and the SNOO sack that ensures a secure swaddle that is hip safe. The SNOO Smart Sleeper not only looks beautiful but it chooses the best motion and white noise to soothe your baby and get him or her off to sleep. The SNOO can be used up to 6 months and even offers a gradual weaning feature to make the transition to the crib a little easier. Check out our Real Mom Review of the Snoo.

Gugu Budget Pick: Chicco Lullago
The Chicco Lullago is not only one of the best bassinets for babies that parents can use in any room of their home, but it’s easy to fold and lightweight – making it great for travel when baby is young. At only $99, the Chicco Lullago includes a mattress with a machine washable cover and a carry bag for when you travel with the bassinet. The Lullago also has mesh sides so it is easy to see baby from your bed and allows for circulation for baby. The design is simple and sleek so it will fit into almost any home design and the set up is super simple so anyone will be able to do it in a snap. (Can be used until 20lbs or when baby can go to their hands and knees.) Check out more of our budget registry picks.

Gugu Eco-friendly Pick: BabyBay Bedside Sleeper
Parents can not only feel good about the BabyBay Bedside Sleeper because it keeps their baby close to them in a safe environment but it is made with solid wood and without the use of any plastics, toxic glues or wood fillers. The BabyBay Bedside bassinet fits any bed height securely and with the purchase of bassinet conversion kit, it can be used as a bassinet that can be moved from room to room. Organic mattress, organic sheets and organic canopy are also available to fit the BabyBay Bedside Sleeper. (As a bedside sleeper the BabyBay can be used up to 6 months or when baby can push up.) Check out some more of our eco-friendly picks.

Gugu Multiple Pick: HALO Bassinest Twin Sleeper
The HALO Bassinest twin sleeper has new parents of twins jumping for joy! The Bassinest Twin offers a 360 swivel so you can see or access either baby with a simple turn. Each baby has his or her own sleeping area as the Bassinest Twin is divided by a mesh wall so the babies can still see each other without the risk of sharing one bassinet. For a new mom recovering from delivery, the Bassinest Twin offers walls that lower and return automatically so that mom can easily access and return the babies from her bed. The Bassinest Twin is adjustable so it will fit just about any bed and comes with a nightlight and three options for soothing sounds and three lullabies. (Can be used until one baby reaches 20lbs or when one baby can go to his or her hands and knees.) See what a new mom has to say about the single HALO Bassinest.

Gugu Minimalist Pick: BABYBJÖRN Cradle
The BABYBJÖRN Cradle is great for a family that wants something that doesn’t take up a lot of space, looks great and can be used longer than the typical bassinet. This bassinet features full airy mesh sides that make it easy for parents to see baby. Parents will love the gentle springy motion that can be easily created with a slight push. The BABYBJÖRN Cradle comes with a machine washable mattress and to make the cradle even more cozy an airy canopy can be purchased separately. Weighing in at only 13 pounds parents can easy move this bassinet around their home and it can be used for up to approx. 6 months. Check out more of our minimalist picks.

Honorable Mention: UPPAbaby Stand
If you already have the UPPAbaby VISTA then you already have a bassinet that is suitable for overnight sleep. The UPPAbaby stand will allow you to snap your UPPAbaby VISTA or CRUZ bassinet into a sturdy and secured elevated stand the same way you snap it into your stroller. Plus, when you can no longer use the stand for the bassinet there are optional accessories that allow you to use the stand as a laundry hamper. (Can be used until 20lbs or when baby can go to his or her hands and knees.)

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Baby Layette Set Brands: 5 to Check Out

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Looking for baby layette set brands for your baby registry? Here is a list of Gugu Guru’s top 5 favorites. In case you’re new to this, a baby layette is a collection of all the essential clothing (think: onesies) and accessories (think: beanie hats, socks and mittens) for a newborn’s wardrobe. There are a few brands that stand out to Gugu Guru as one-stop-shops when it comes to offering baby layette sets – meaning a bundle of these essentials.

1. L’ovedbaby
Why Gugu Guru loves this baby layette set brand: L’ovedbaby is known for their soft organic cotton basics that are offered in a wide variety of colors including general neutral whites and grays. L’ovedbaby offers all the basics that you need for your baby’s first few months including footed pajamas, kimono body suits, gowns, hats and pants. All of L’ovedbaby clothes are made with organic cotton, dyes and trims and they do not use any flame retardants. L’ovedbaby makes organic basics that are anything but.

2. Carter’s
Why Gugu Guru loves this baby layette set brand: Parents have trusted clothing from Carter’s for their babies for generations. New parents appreciate Carter’s because the brand’s clothing is not only super cute but it runs true to size so it takes the guesswork out. One 7-pack of Carter’s bodysuits (or even two) is a great fit for any baby registry. Carter’s is also a great stop for seasonal outfits for baby or sizes (including preemie) that you won’t find anywhere else.

3. Primary.com
Why Gugu Guru loves this baby layette set brand: If you like color and want to see your baby in a rainbow of colors without all the cute sayings, Primary.com is definitely for you. All the designs are basic, the colors bright, the fabrics are high-quality and nothing is over $25. Primary offers a wide variety of baby basics including an assortment of body suits, footies, dresses, pants, socks and shorts that are sure to make you smile.

4. Monica + Andy
Why Gugu Guru loves this baby layette set brand: Monica + Andy makes beautiful basic clothing that never compromises on quality or style. The whimsical prints, coordinating trims, stylish cuts and on-trend colors in all their clothing is sure to make your baby the best dressed on the block. All clothes by Monica + Andy are made with organic cottons and the finest materials. If you are looking for a one-stop shop for all your basic layette needs Monica + Andy has you covered with one of their 4 curated layette bundles including the “motherlode” which offers more than 35 pieces to start your baby’s wardrobe.

5. Goumikids
Why Gugu Guru loves this baby layette set brand: On just about every must have list for baby you will see baby mittens and booties but the problem is that most of them come right off – but not with Goumikids. Thanks to their signature two-part closure system Goumikids mitts and booties will stay on baby without the use of scratchy Velcro. Goumikids gowns are great for nighttime diaper changes and bundle them with a set of mitts and booties for a great gift option for your registry.

Interested in learning more about some of our other baby registry must-have picks? Check out:

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links.

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Royal Baby Gift Ideas

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Well, it’s official, the Royal Baby Boy is here! The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton and Prince William, welcomed a brand new prince into the Royal Family on April 23rd, at St Mary’s Hospital, London, at 11:01 BST, weighing 8lb 7oz. We are thrilled for the Royal Family and had some fun rounding up some gift ideas for the new little Prince. Don’t forget to check out more Royal Baby items on our Very Royal Baby Registry, too!

Kate Middleton has used the Silver Cross Balmoral Pram in Navy ($2,699.00) with her first two babies, and is expected to use it for the new Prince as well. The Silver Cross Balmoral is the definitive luxury pram, still crafted by hand in Silver Cross’ original factory in Yorkshire, England, using traditional methods. Exuding British engineering at its best, the iconic design is the embodiment of quality and craftsmanship; from the polished chrome chassis to the hand stitched fabrics and the hallmark hand painted fine line detail. The gorgeous shape and detailing are matched by the famous Silver Cross ride, a wonderful bouncing glide created by the patented C-spring chassis. A sumptuous cotton pram liner and mattress ensures that your baby is transported in the greatest comfort, and the classic Balmoral suspension guarantees peaceful strolling for your newborn.

Every Royal baby needs a silicone crown teether, right? This one is the Crown Silicone Teether from LouLou Lollipop and it’s adorable – basic, but a super fun shape! It is made from 100% FDA approved food grade silicone, and BPA, Phthalates, Lead, Cadmium and PVC FREE. It features raised nubs at the back of the teether to help message your baby’s sore gum. It’s soft texture is gentle and soothing on baby’s sore teething gum. And, it’s easy to clean, dishwasher safe, and can be chilled for added teething relief!

We are swooning over this London Luxe Muslin Quilt from LouLou Lollipop! Next time you’re heading on an adventure with your little, take this one-of-a-kind blanket with you! This oh-so-lovely London print blanket will sure get everyone talking! This blanket features Lou Lou Lollipop’s signature 4-layers of super soft quilted bamboo muslin and is machine washable.

Stripped Baby Registry with Ali Levine

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One of our most popular baby registry posts ever has been our minimalist baby registry product picks; with minimalism sweeping the nation, it’s no shock to us that more and more parents are looking for multipurpose baby items which also take up less and less space. When gorgeous stylist to the stars Ali Levine appeared on the Bravo TV show Stripped, we were intrigued and quickly became hooked on the show! Stripped of literally all of her and her husband’s belongings, Ali had to decide which items were necessities to retrieve back, and which items could wait until later. We loved this concept and how closely it resembled minimalism, so when Ali announced she was pregnant with a little girl, we worked together to create her Stripped Baby Registry. You can find the lovely Ali Levine on her website, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

BBox Diaper Caddy: We are huge fans of the BBox Diaper Caddy for minimalist parents, as it can hold everything you need for diaper changes and can be carried easily from room to room, so you won’t need a diaper station in every room of the house. See why we think the BBox Diaper Caddy is ideal for gender neutral nurseries, too.

Bloom Baby Wipes: With every new baby comes a lot of wipes – and you can use them for so many things! We have recently fallen in love with Bloom Baby Wipes, as they are all natural, a large size (covers more tush!), and smells great – plus, super safe for even the most sensitive of baby skin. Check out these real mom reviews of Bloom Baby Wipes.

Finn + Emma Clothing: When it comes to baby clothing for a minimalist parent, you want clothing which is soft enough to double as pajamas and clothing – a two-for-one! Plus, with a modern style, no one would ever notice your little one is wearing pajamas as clothes! Finn + Emma is a 100% organic baby clothing line which mixes classic and contemporary design, modern and whimsical, stylish and utilitarian, all of which are free from any toxic chemicals. Finn + Emma believes that beautiful and healthy baby items can be both sustainable and stylish. Check out why Gugu Guru thinks Finn + Emma is a fantastic company to purchase from.

Copper Pearl Swaddle Blanket: We are loving these super soft swaddle blankets from Copper Pearl; made of premium knit, these soft blanket sets are lightweight and breathable, meaning your little one will stay comfy and cozy without overheating. Their large size means they grow with your child, from receiving blanket to toddler play mat, which makes them multipurpose and perfect for a Stripped registry.

ErgoPouch Swaddle: The ErgoPouch Cocoon ‘no origami’ baby Swaddle and Sleep bag is designed to be both easy to use and difficult to escape from. The simple zip up design will keep baby snug and securely swaddled without the need for complicated wrapping. The ErgoPouch Swaddle is ideal for Ali’s Stripped minimalist baby registry with its 2-in-1 functionality – there are poppers in the armholes to transform from a swaddle to a sleeping bag. Made with eco-friendly, breathable fabric, the simple zip up design will keep baby snug and securely swaddled.

Rookie Humans Crib Sheet: Rookie Humans crib sheets are beyond adorable and ready for everyday use on the crib! Rookie Humans was created by a mama who loved to take photos of her kids, and wanted to create awesome backgrounds to take photos. These crib sheets double as photo backdrops and each design is a limited edition, perfect for the baby of a stylish mama!

Skip Hop Moby SoftSpot Sink Bather: Ideal for a minimalist registry is this soft bather from Skip Hop which turns your sink into a safe baby bath. Perfectly sized to cradle newborns and infants, the SoftSpot’s plush and supportive sink bather is a must-have for your baby’s first baths. With a soft terry surface and a padded whale tail to protect baby’s head, the cushioned design fits in bathroom and kitchen sinks to cradle infants for comfy and convenient bathing. The mesh bottom drains water quickly and the Velcro strap makes it easy to hang dry.

mamaRoo: The mamaRoo by 4moms has become the ultimate staple for all nurseries; why do so many parents love this innovative product so much? Because it mimics the motion of a parent to soothe baby so mom and dad can have a quick break! The mamaRoo is unique because sways from side to side, just like parents do when comforting their babies. The mamaRoo features five unique motions and five speed options. Soothe your baby with one of the four built-in sounds, or connect any MP3 device to the mamaRoo. The mamaRoo seat offers full recline to allow baby to lie back and relax or sit up and play. Check out the mamaRoo in our Cause-Driven Baby Registry as well.

Ergo Baby ADAPT Cool Mesh Carrier: A baby carrier is a must-have for any new parent, as babies love to be held, but you can use your arms and keep baby close at the same time – a win win! We’re big fans of the ErgoBaby ADAPT Carrier for new parents, as it is super comfortable to wear and keeps you and baby cool. Plus, this is a perfect pick for a minimalist parent because you can use the carrier from newborn to toddler years, as it has super lumbar support and the mesh body will keep you from overheating as the baby grows.

Baby Shusher: Babies love white noise, as it reminds them of being in the womb, and if you’re going to have a new baby in the house, you’re going to want the Baby Shusher. This innovative baby sleep device is one of the only products on the market that uses a recorded human voice to help with baby sleep training. This sleeping device for babies features rhythmic ‘shushes’ recorded that can play up to 30 minutes at a time. This helps to interrupt your baby’s crying session and engages their relaxation and calming reflex. The shushing noise reminds babies, especially preemies and newborns, of being in the womb, which helps them calm down and sleep easier. Check out why we love the Baby Shusher for Back to Sleep.

NuRoo Pocket: Designed for hands free skin-to-skin contact, NuRoo engineered the Pocket using their signature fabric and added ventilation. It features mesh under arms and back releases heat and a support belt. We love how stylish the NuRoo Pocket looks, and when it comes to breastfeeding, it’s wonderful to have baby close – plus, skin-to-skin contact is known to increase milk supply, so the NuRoo Pocket can help keep you stylish, close to baby, and improving your milk supply. The NuRoo Pocket is machine washable, too!

Uniquely J Coffee: Every new parent needs something to keep them going during witching hour or in the middle of the night, we’d be remiss to not mention how much we love Jet.com’s Uniquely J fair trade coffee – it’s super delicious and will help give you that second wind you need when baby wakes up!

Babo Botanicals: When it comes to what you put on your baby’s skin, we always go to Babo Botanicals for the safest and most sensitive creams, lotions, and soaps. Their Newborn Essentials Gift Set has everything you need to keep your little one clean and their skin so baby soft. Including their Moisturizing Baby Lotion, Moisturizing Shampoo and Wash, and Soothing Diaper Cream. What’s best, this set is free from Gluten, Dairy, Soy, Peanuts, Almonds, Walnuts, SLS, Sulfates, Parabens, Phthalates, Synthetic Fragrances, Dyes, Sodium chloride, Formaldehyde, MEA, DEA, TEA, and most common allergens – making it super safe for baby. You can find Babo Botanicals in our Jet City Baby Picks, too.

MAM Bottles: Ideal for newborns, the innovative MAM Anti-Colic Bottle makes the transition between breast and bottle feeding easy. The patented Anti-Colic vented base ensures babies can drink calmly and relaxed while ventilation holes regulate the pressure balance. This allows for the milk to flow evenly without bubbles or foaming. The nipple’s SkinSoft textured surface and unique flat shape fits perfectly in the baby’s mouth making the switch between breast and bottle easy. MAM Anti-Colic bottles feature a leak-proof cap, wide openings and removable base for easy cleaning. See more on MAM bottles and why they’re a Gugu fave.

Skip Hop Mainframe Wide Open Diaper Backpack: Who has time to hunt through your jam-packed bag for diapers, snacks and other necessities? Not the busy moms we know. The Skip Hop Mainframe Wide Open Diaper Backpack makes it easy to access everything that’s packed inside thanks to a structured frame that opens wide—and stays put—for a clear view. An innovative combination of soft fabric and sleek structure, the sporty, lightweight design features a large main compartment with a secure zip closure, plus lots of pockets for essentials like your phone and water bottles. Easy-grab double top handles and adjustable backpack straps make this user-friendly look the ultimate in hands-free ease. See why we love Skip Hop’s new Tray Chic Dry and Store Pump Bag, too!

Estella Toys: Every baby needs new toys to play with, especially when they need something to learn to grasp and pinch, so why not make sure their toys put a smile on your face too? We’re loving the toys from Estella for Ali’s stripped baby registry; Estella’s collection of handmade baby toys are all organic, non-toxic, and safe for newborns. All of Estella’s baby rattles are handmade in Peru by local craftsmen using 100-percent GOTS-certified organic cotton. These eco-friendly baby toys are educational and designed to stimulate your little one’s mind. They feature soft textures, bold hues, and soothing sounds that will capture your child’s attention and engage their senses. Babies can use these soft and stuffed plush toys to engage in imaginative play as they grow into toddlers.

Polka Dot Print Shop Book: Every new mama needs a special baby book to write and save all of her memories in! We love the chic and modern designs from Polka Dot Print Shop, as well as the prompts and questions inside. This special book will quickly become a mom-favorite and a family heirloom. Created by a busy mama of four, each page was carefully designed in such a way that you won’t need to devote hours upon hours of your precious time each month to filling it out. Pick it up when you have a spare moment and write down your memories. Quick, simple and to the point. These made in America books aren’t just for baby memories, they have Bump books, toddler books, school years, and even expansion packs.

Covered Goods Nursing Cover: Since we were working on a stripped registry for Ali, we knew we had to feature multi-purpose products, such as the Covered Goods Nursing Cover. This cover, which comes in a ton of different colors, is the original multi-use cover and can be a nursing cover, cart cover, carseat cover, or even a chic scarf for mama! Learn more about why we love Covered Goods.

MAM pacifiers: Gugu Guru is a huge fan of the MAM pacifiers and knew Ali had to have them on her stripped essentials list – especially the glow in the dark ones! Recent clinical studies prove that the MAM Perfect Pacifier supports healthy teeth and jaw development, and in a recent study, the MAM Perfect Pacifier was shown to be the tooth friendliest of any pacifiers tested. Learn more about the MAM Pacifiers here.

DockATot: This baby lounger is a must-have for any minimalist and stripped down family – the DockATot can easily be moved from room to room and grows with baby – as a place to lounge, snuggle, and play. Coming in a huge assortment of colors, you’re sure to find one which fits your style. As Ali is also an avid traveler, we wanted to make sure she had a DockATot, as they are a Wanderlust must-have for Gugu Guru.

Junkless Chewy Granola Bars: As a new mom, especially breastfeeding mamas, need to make sure to feed themselves – and sometimes you only have one hand to do so! That’s why we’re huge fans of Junkless Chewy Granola Bars. Coming in Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip, Chocolate Chip, 100% REAL Strawberries, and Cinnamon Roll, they have no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives, no hydrogenated oils, no high fructose corn syrup, 0g trans fat; and what’s more, they have less sugar than many other leading granola bars –6 or less grams per bar. See why we think Junkless Chewy Granola Bars are a must have for the diaper bag!

City Baby Picks for Playtime

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As your baby grows, it is fun to pick out playtime items for them to grow and learn with; as an urban parent, however, you want the items and toys to not only fit within your urban dwelling, but serve multipurpose uses and look good in your home decor! We’re excited to showcase our experts’ picks for playtime fun for your city baby. Have a question about any of these playtime essentials? You can call them 24/7 and talk to a real live person!

Check out our other city baby picks for sleeping essentials, beauty and wellness, feeding, living, and on-the-go.

3 Sprouts Hedgehog Play Mat Bag: We love us a 2-in-1 product and this play mat and tote bag is no exception. Scatter baby’s toys about this adorable play mat and once the fun is over, simply grab the handles, pack up and go! Great for around the house, the park or travel.

Baby Bjorn Bouncer Bliss, Quilted: One of our minimalist essentials and must-haves all around 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.

Puj Bath Treads: These colorful treads from Puj offer safety to your little, while – most importantly – easily keeping clean. The easy on and off adhesive design sticks to the tub without fostering mildew and bacteria (like suction mats) and you can clean them with the wipe of any safe household cleaner.

Finn + Emma Baby 100% Organic Rattle Buddy: Finn + Emma Rattle Buddies are hand-knit dolls made with organic cotton yarn that have phthalate-free rattles inside. These knit toys are made with eco-friendly dies and inks, 100% organic cotton yarn and stuffed with sheep’s wool.

Finn + Emma Play Gym: A minimalist will absolutely love this play gym that is so sophisticated, it doesn’t even look like baby gear. What’s more is that Finn+Emma is made of a 100% birch wood frame finished with non-toxic stains and lacquers.

Finn+ Emma 2 Piece Stroller Set: Non-toxic toys to keep baby occupied while strolling are a must-have for city living. Finn+Emma’s knit buddy is made from organic cotton yarn and stuffed with sheep’s wool; its counterpart wood buddy is made from Indian hardwood and finished with vegetable seed wax.

Finn+Emma Wood Rattle Teether: Photog parents unite! This wood teething rattle made from Indian hardwood, finished with natural vegetable seed wax, and stuffed with beans is soft, smooth, and very safe for your little.

Indestructibles Book Set: Colorful series of baby books that are completely safe for baby playtime plus chew-proof, drool-proof, and rip-proof.

Lamaze Freddie the Firefly: Every parent needs a toy to attach to the stroller or car seat to keep baby amused during travel time. We love the take-along toys from Lamaze, like Freddie the Firefly. Babies will love to play with the crinkly wings, peekaboo mirror and clacking rings.

Nook LilyPad Organic Playmat: When it comes to an eco-friendly place for baby to play during playtime, you really can’t get better than this Nook LilyPad Organic Playmat. It’s made with eucalyptus – a natural moisture-wicking, breathable material – organic cotton, and PETE (woven BPA free recycled water bottle meshwork.)

Sophie la Girafe Set Teether & Book: Sure, she may be ubiquitous, but Sophie the Giraffe has become something of an icon for the modern mom set. Made from 100% natural rubber and totally adorable, Sophie is a must-have teething toy for every baby.

Cover photo via Pics and Paws Photography; Finn + Emma Play Gym photo via Brittney Knudsen

Top 5 Finds from the JPMA Baby Show

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We are super excited to share our top 5 Finds from the JPMA Baby Show! Last week, the 2nd Annual JPMA Baby Show took place at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington DC. If you don’t know of the JPMA Baby show, it is one of the largest trade and consumer baby shows in North America. Since Monica’s flight was canceled due to Winter Storm Toby, we were lucky enough to have Gugu Concierge expert, Julie McCaffrey, on the ground at the show. Here’s her round-up of the five coolest and most innovative finds at the show…

1. Childhome Evolu

This highchair not only looks great but it is super functional and grows with your child, making it the first mention in our top 5 Finds from the JPMA Baby Show. The Evolu has an easy to clean plastic seat and sturdy beech wood legs. The legs, tray and safety harness can be removed so you are left with a stylish child’s chair. Optional accessories include a newborn seat that reclines, legs that extend to make the highchair fit your kitchen island, a mesh storage basket and stylish seat cushions. Coming soon to the US. $199

2. Oxo Tot Space Saving Drying Rack

Whether you have limited counter space or just don’t want a drying rack to take over your kitchen the Oxo Tot Space Saving Drying Rack is a sleek option to hold your bottles, pacifier and sippy cups. The height is sized to fit under cabinets and the angled pegs will ensure your bottles dry properly. Available now. $24.99

3. Raybaby (non-contact sleep and breathing baby monitor)

The Raybaby monitor is a no touch, very sophisticated HD video monitor with night vision and 2-way audio. This monitor tracks respiration, movements and sleep patterns with high end technology that works on the principle of ultra sound so you can be sure even when your baby is swaddled it is accurately capturing your baby’s smallest movements. Parent alerts are sent when baby has higher breathing patterns associated with high fever or abnormal breathing. Available for pre-order today. $199

4. Innobaby ECLEVE Pulse Ultimate Comfort Hip Seat Carrier

Thanks to the wedge support seat and ability to use this carrier 9 different ways, the Innobaby ECLEVE allows you to comfortably carry your baby from infancy through the toddler years. This carrier is super lightweight and features water resistant fabric and true mesh fabric to ensure your baby doesn’t get overheated. There is a detachable hood, storage pockets and the wedge seat has a non slip pad so you can zip off the rest of the carrier and just carry your toddler on your hip without throwing out your back. Available now in 3 colors. $199

5. Aristot Bassinets

We’d be remiss not to mention the highly anticipated Aristot bassinets in our top 5 Finds from the JPMA Baby Show. These gorgeous bassinets speak for themselves and are meant to transition to adult furniture and even become family heirlooms. These luxurious bassinets are handmade with high end fabrics and finishes for your stylish space. The bases and bassinets are interchangeable so you can create the piece that works best in your home. Available in Fall 2018. Starting at $1500.

Honorable Mention: Beaba Big Flopsy Maternity & Nursing Pillow

This pregnancy and nursing pillow is covered in a luxurious fabric and filled with a non-toxic fill that is easily to mold to fit your pregnant body and you and baby while nursing. Big Flopsy is fully machine washable and looks great so you won’t mind leaving it lying around your home. Available now. $120

Evoz Monitor Review

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On the market for a new baby monitor? Check out this Evoz Monitor Review from our friend and Gugu Concierge expert, Amber Michel, founder of Your Milk Shoppe.

When opening the package what I noticed first was how compact the device is, which means the installation is super quick and easy. Can we say parent WIN??!! Because of its simplicity and easy install, traveling with this Evoz monitor is super easy, as all you’re packing is the one device that syncs up directly to your phone app that acts as your personal monitor.

Because this device is married with your phone, you have a bit more freedom to walk around with phone in hand acting as your very own monitor. Again, this is a major win for any parent who does not want to sit in one place, monitor in hand, with the fear of losing reception and the screenshot of their baby. You can truly go anywhere in your home, back yard included.

Evoz provides you with a lot of helpful parenting tools for your baby’s sleep patterns; it helps you get a better idea of how long it takes your baby to fall asleep. It also helps you determine how to respond when your baby wakes up at night through an option called “cry alert” and that can be sent to you via SMS, Email or Push alerts. You are truly plugged in, even when you’re not staring at the monitor, and that is liberating.

What I enjoyed most when using the Evoz monitor with my little one was that I wasn’t the only parent dialed into the app on my phone. My husband could also access it on his phone. (And, keep in mind, when we are using this app, we can talk to our little ones through our phones, soothing them back to sleep). And get this, when I wanted to take a bath, I was able to relax and take a bath while my husband could keep an eye on the baby while she slept (or didn’t ?). There is total freedom in sharing the parenting responsibility at bed time!

Evoz Monitor Review bottom line: Evoz Vision WiFi Video Baby Monitor is a great pick for modern, connected, working parents.

About Your Milk Shoppe
A Gugu Concierge network partner, Your Milk Shoppe is a group of certified Maternity Consultants and Child Prep Educators. They affordable services to moms such as Parenting Classes, Baby Planning, Product Recommendation, Local Referral Partner Lists and Nanny Placement. The goal is to support and empower moms, while ensuring a seamless transition into their new life that is parenthood. Your Milk Shoppe is the milk that keeps the moms alive throughout their parenting journey – because moms need milk, too!

Check out these other posts from the ladies of Your Milk Shoppe:

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