5 Must-Have Baby Products You Didn't Know You Needed

As a new parent, you may think you've got everything under control with the usual array of diapers, baby bottles, and pacifiers. However, you might be surprised to learn about some lesser-known baby products that can make your life significantly easier. Here, we share a list of 5 must-have items, backed by recommendations from top-tier universities and esteemed medical professionals across the country, to help your parenting journey become even smoother.

1. White Noise Machine

Dr. Harvey Karp, an internationally renowned pediatrician and child development expert from UCLA School of Medicine, strongly recommends using a white noise machine for babies. "These devices mimic the constant whooshing sound your baby heard in the womb. They're great for helping babies sleep more deeply and longer," says Dr. Karp.

White noise machines can mask disruptive sounds and provide a comforting, consistent sound environment that helps your baby fall asleep and stay asleep. Additionally, research from the University of California, San Francisco suggests that white noise can have long-term benefits for your child's sleep patterns.

2. Wearable Blankets

Swaddling is an age-old technique to help soothe newborns, but what happens when your little one starts to outgrow their swaddle? Enter wearable blankets, also known as sleep sacks.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, these handy sleepwear items can help keep your baby warm without the hazard of loose blankets in the crib. Top pediatricians like Dr. Rachel Moon, a Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Virginia School of Medicine, endorse them. "Wearable blankets offer the comfort babies need while eliminating risks associated with loose bedding," Moon explains.

3. Baby Food Dispensing Spoon

This innovative product takes convenience to the next level. A baby food dispensing spoon combines the food container and the spoon in one, allowing you to feed your baby single-handedly.

The spoon can be a game-changer for on-the-go meals or midnight feedings. It can hold a serving of baby food and dispenses the perfect amount with each squeeze. Prof. Rebecca Spencer, a neuroscientist from the University of Massachusetts, emphasizes, "Establishing a comfortable and efficient feeding routine can help babies' cognitive development, as they're less stressed and can focus on their surrounding environment."

4. Portable Baby High Chair

Eating out with your baby can be challenging, but a portable baby high chair can make it much easier. These lightweight, foldable chairs can be attached securely to most table types, giving your baby a safe and comfortable place to eat or play.

Researchers from the University of Michigan's Center for Human Growth and Development have found that familiar settings and routines can help babies adjust to new environments. Using a portable high chair can provide a sense of familiarity and security for your baby, even when you're away from home.

5. Baby Care Timer

Parenting is a round-the-clock job, and sleep deprivation can make it challenging to keep track of when your baby last ate or had their diaper changed.

A baby care timer is a digital device that allows you to log daily activities such as feedings, diaper changes, and sleep times. It can be a lifesaver, particularly for first-time parents and families with twins or multiples. According to Dr. Avi Sadeh from Tel Aviv University, "Keeping track of a baby's schedule can reduce parents' anxiety and enhance their confidence, leading to better overall care."

These lesser-known baby products are must-haves for new parents. They not only enhance your baby's comfort but also streamline your parenting duties, making the journey all the more enjoyable. Parenthood is indeed an adventure, and with these handy items by your side, you're well-prepared for the exciting road ahead.