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I have compiled a list of my top 5 baby items for the first year. I could have definitely expanded the list but these were the 5 items I really felt we couldn't live without (other than the staples). These also make great gifts as most of these items are not on traditional registries.
1. Zutano Booties
This Vermont-based company knows how to make cozy booties that actually stay on tiny baby feet. The booties come in both fleece and cotton fabrics and have adjustable snaps to grow with your baby. We lived in these as soon as the weather was cool and throughout the entire winter. The prints and patterns are adorable and they are machine-washable.
2. Amber Teething Necklace
I get a lot of compliments on my girls necklaces since most people think they are fashion accessories. Aside from being adorable, Baltic Amber teething necklaces are a must have for a teething baby. My four year old still wears hers because she loves it. Now there is no science behind these beads and the theory is that Baltic Amber contains healing oils that work as a natural anti-inflammatory. Baltic Amber has been used for centuries for its natural healing powers. Both of my girls wear these necklaces and neither have had serious teething issues other than excessive drool. I personally think they help. When choosing a Baltic Amber necklace make sure to purchase from a reputable company that sources their amber to be 100% authentic. I personally love the company Spark of Amber.
3. Beautycounter Baby
Beautycounter's baby line launched in 2016 and has been a life saver for our family. What you put on your baby's skin matters and the simpler the ingredients, the better. This collection was featured in Real Simple Magazine as the #1 safest baby line. Not only is it safe, but actually works. The collection includes a head to toe wash, soothing baby oil, baby protective balm, and a brand new calming diaper rash cream. The entire line is mild, gentle and contains no scent which is exactly what you want for infant skin. Trust me, invest in the entire collection, you won't regret it. The head to toe wash is nourishing and will keep your baby's skin soft and hydrated. The baby oil is the perfect alternative to harsh lotion. The oil is a blend of coconut oil, jojoba seed oil, and sunflower seed oil- that's it! Perfect for cradle cap and also makes a great eye makeup remover for mom, a win-win! I love how the oil is easily absorbed, not greasy at all! The baby protective balm may be my favorite, it has so many uses that will grow with your baby and I use it on myself as well. It can be used on diaper area, eczema patches, dry skin, chapped cheeks and lips, and so much more! It is the perfect barrier to protect babies delicate skin. The balm is a blend of organic shea butter and jojoba oil which is the perfect combination for sensitive skin for both babies and mamas! And finally, Beautycounter's brand new diaper rash cream prevents irritated skin by using safer ingredients. Beautycounter uses non-nano zinc oxide to reduce and prevent redness, it is soy and nut free, safe to use with cloth diapers, and perfect for sensitive skin. This also makes a great gift!
4. Klean Canteen Water Bottle/Sippy Cup
Over the past couple of years I have tried really hard to reduce my family's use of plastic. I switched over our food storage containers to glass and water bottles to stainless steel. Klean Kanteen makes the best water bottles for kids and you can purchase a sippy cap separately which is perfect for babies around 6 months old. This water bottle never leeks, is completely kid-proof, and BPA-free. Water bottles come in a variety of sizes and colors and are perfect for the entire family, they even make a baby bottle. It is the perfect way to keep drinks cold or hot!
5. Wooden Suction Bowl
Again, I am trying to reduce the use of plastic in our house and there are some great alternatives for kid dishes. I love the brand Avanchy for wooden bowls and plates. My youngest daughter is queen of picking up her bowl from her highchair and either tossing it on the floor or on her head. Avanchy makes beautiful wooden bowls with a suction bottom that attaches to any flat surface and actually stays put! There is a release-tab that parents can pull for easy removal. The bowls and plates are made from biodegradable bamboo and BPA-free food grade silicon.
