Are you having trouble thinking of a gift for your daughter-in-law's baby shower, or is your best friend is expecting and you don't know what to get her? Instead of defaulting to clothes the little bundle will wear only once, get them something they will use well into the toddler years.
As a mom, life can get overwhelming and it seems like your days are just whizzing past. You don't have time to look up product reviews for every new item you need, or frankly even head to the store to pick it up.
Since becoming a mom, I have relied on Amazon to deliver what I need, right to my door. It's especially helpful on those days where I am covered in baby spit-up, or I have been up all night rocking babe to sleep.
Skip all the extra work, and check out this list I have put together for the best baby and kid products that parents will love! Most of them I still use even now that my baby has become a toddler.
1. Boba Wrap
When your baby is still little, the Boba is the perfect wrap for around the house. Whether you need to get some laundry put away or you just want to have your hands free, snuggle up with your little one in the gorgeous wrap.
Easy and comfortable and baby loved!
"I am not at all the type of mom who knows about specific wraps or is super into "baby wearing", I was simply a first time mom who thought the baby bjorn looked a little uncomfortable. So, I bought this, watched a Youtube tutorial about how to wrap it (VERY helpful!) and my baby girl loved it! Once in a while she would cry for no reason and once I put her in here she would fall right asleep. My daughter is 6.5 months old now and does not enjoy it even with her legs free (there is a different way to place older babies) and I really miss the days of her snuggled tight to me! Very easy and very useful. I machine washed and dried it several times with no issue! Also I am plus sized!"
2. 4-in-1 Multi-Use Infant Car Seat Canopy Cover
The key to any successful baby product is multi-functional! This car seat canopy is everything you will need to keep you and your little one comfortable. From blocking the sun and wind in the car seat to acting as a wrap in the grocery cart, and you can even use it as a stylish nursing cover when you are on the go.
Perfect cover at a great price!
"I was extremely impressed when I opened this nursing cover because of how comfortable the material is! It is very soft, the perfect size, and costs MUCH less than other competitors. Most of the higher priced items I've seen do not come with the extra storage case and bandana bibs either. For the fantastic price, I will absolutely be buying this as a shower gift for my nursing friends. It has so many multi use functions and is just what I was looking for!"
3. LeapFrog Count Along Cash Register
This is a toy that will grow with your little one. From initially loving the sounds it makes, to being able to count the coins and identify the groceries, this cash register will be a hit for your kids.
This was a hit with my three-year-old granddaughter!
"I purchased this Leap-frog cash register for my 3-year-old granddaughter for Christmas--and it was hit! Before she'd finished unwrapping the rest of her gifts, she was running to me to open it up and let her play. She loves the sounds it makes as she rings items up! She plays shop girl with her older sister, runs their "cards" to make their purchases, and so far, she's been meticulous about keeping all of the bits and pieces that came along with it together because she loves it all so much! Great gift!"
4. Fat Brain Squigz Starter Set
This is a really fun toy that will keep your kids occupied for hours. I initially bought them for a our first plane ride and it's amazing how much they kept my little one quite for the ride. It really helps build strength and dexterity in your kids hands.
"My son is a hard sell. He is 4 years old and I bought these for his birthday because he only likes to play with balls or things with suction cups. I thought "wow this is cool," then I got them...oh my goodness they were a blast, my husband was hanging them from the ceiling, and my kids were sticking them everywhere they could. at one point we had the entire package stuck together in one long string and hanging from the ceiling! HOURS of Fun for ALL ages!!!"
5. Faucet Extender for Toddlers and Kids
If you're tired of lifting your toddler to the sink or having them drag around the stool, this gadget will make your life easier. Attach it around any faucet and have the stream extend closer to them.
but these worked great for both
"I bought these and gave one to my mom to use at her house when my daughter (2 years old) stays there. Our faucets are completely different, but these worked great for both! My daughter loves washing her hands and watching the water come out of the froggie's mouth. Perfect for what we needed, and extends the water enough for her to be able to wash hands and brush her teeth."
6. JJ Cole Outdoor Blanket
If there is one thing that should be on every mom's registry is this outdoor blanket. I initially overlooked it, but then ended up buying it myself and it gets so much use! It goes into the washing machine so easily and folds up to the perfect size that you can hang it off the handles of your stroller.
"I did a lot of research before purchasing an outdoor blanket, and am so happy that I went with this one. As a new mom, I didn't realize that most of the time when you go to a park the grass has some condensation on it, so a water resistant blanket is a must! This blanket definitely did the job, no moisture soaked through it at all, and it was still soft enough to sit on comfortably."
7. Playtex Diaper Genie
Let's be honest, you change a lot of diapers. Whether it's 12 diapers a day of newborn poop or 2-3 poopy toddler diapers, this Diaper Genie will be your savior! I find I use it more now that I have a toddler, because those diapers stink way worse than when she was a newborn.
"We love our diaper genies. Our other has lasted through quite a few kids, so it's just time for another one. It holds a lot of dirty diapers and it doesn't stink. The refills aren't cheap, but this is one area that I just need it to work and work well. I'll pay for that!This one is slightly different than our last one, but it works just as well if not better. It has the same function and works the same way, but it's been re-styled. I'm really happy with it and I definitely suggest it!"
8. My Breast Friend Nursing Pillow
For breastfeeding moms this nursing pillow is exactly what you need. You know you can be trapped there for a very long time, so being comfortable is key! With a handy pocket to store your phone, water bottle or snacks, you can get ready to get settled for however long it takes your baby to finish eating.
Helps with multi-tasking, not just a comfy alternative to a bobby.
"Using this now for my 2nd bub in 2 years and it has held up really well.I actually use it a lot to help me multi task - I work at my desk while feeding and just prop it up on the edge - has really helped me to be productive and be a work at home mom."
9. Skip Hop Moby Bath Spout Cover
Protect your little one from bumping their head in the tub and give them something to smile at during bath time.
"This fits my tub perfectly! Super cute and functional. It easily went on and the spout still functions no issues! I definitely feel more confident my little one's head is safe from bumps with this. I would recommend this product to anyone!"
10. Pampers Baby Wipes
Parents go through A LOT of wipes. From diaper changes to messy hands and faces, it's essential to have a pack of these every where you go. Pop a pack into your car, diaper bag and changing station to make sure you always have them on hand where you need them. Sign up for Subscribe and Save and save up to 15% on this product!
"I was skeptical about the quality of the tubs coz i was buying this for the # of tubs it comes with (wanted to have one in each room of the house), but i see no reason to complain about the quality of the tub, it snaps ok with a faint click sound and keeps the wipes fresh/wet. Now coming to the quality of the wipes itself, they are thicker than most of the other wipes on the market."
Continue to the next page for the biggest way to save on Diapers, other essentials you don't want to miss out on.
11. Skip Hop Portable Changing Station
I always keep this portable changing station in my car and that means I don't have to pack a diaper bag every time I leave the house! It's a real time saver and I know I always have when I need when we're out on short errands.
"My daughter is 15 months old and we have been using this since we brought her home from the hospital. There is no other single baby-care item that has been more useful for us. It can go in the diaper bag or it can be clipped to a stroller or cart (or even a belt loop, although it does look pretty awkward that way).As the diapers have gotten bigger we haven't been able to keep as many in it, but that's not surprising. We even keep a plain onesie and a plastic bag in the outer zipper pocket, just in case of a messy blow-out."
12. Graco Pack 'n Play Playard
If you're going to buy one big baby item, make it the Graco Pack 'n Play Playard. The lounger is perfect when they're a newborn and you can take it out and move it around the house with you. It folds up into a very compact rectangle and you can bring it with you wherever you go!
"This is a lifesaver! Our little one is almost 3 weeks old and I don't know how we would've survived this long without our pack 'n play. It was very easy to assemble and we have it set up in our living room. It's so convenient for me to have everything I need close at hand. When she naps during the day, I put her in the bassinet. When she has a dirty diaper, I don't have to worry about going to her nursery to change her. The side compartment easily holds a pack of wipes and about 20 newborn diapers. I'm very comforted knowing that it will still be of use to me even as our daughter grows."
13. Pampers Baby Dry Diapers
Oh diapers! Amazon must think I run a daycare with the amount of diapers that I order. Ordering them through Amazon is the best decision I have made to date. They arrive right to your door, and Prime Members save an additional 20% off thanks to Amazon Family!
14. Munchkin Arm and Hammer Diaper Bag Dispenser
It may look small but it makes a BIG impact! I have one of these little guys in my car, and in my diaper bag for when I am no where near my Diaper Genie. They perfectly mask the scent of the dirty diaper so you don't have to be embarrassed when you're out at a friend's house and have to change a mess.
"This is handy to have in my diaper bag, a lot easier to keep all the clean bags together instead of fishing around all the pockets for one. The bags are big enough to tie tight over a diaper or dirty baby clothes. Smells fresh and comes with a refill"
15. Safety 1st Deluxe Healthcare and Grooming Kit
I got this as a shower gift and it will be handy for years to come! It has everything a parent needs to groom their baby. From nail clippers to a comb, you have all your bases covered with this kit.
Good quality and brings everything you need a baby safety ...
"Neat. Good quality and brings everything you need a baby safety kit to have. Bag folds up small, which i love. might even use it for a makeup bag in the future. Cute design and affordable."
16. Sophie The Giraffe Teether
Oh Sophie! It's hard to visit a baby play group without seeing this giraffe in some baby's hand. I don't know what is about her, but baby's LOVE this teether.
"Sophie has been a staple in our home since 2011--3 of my kids and I have gifted more then a few to new moms. She is amazing, durable and fun. My husband just saw me writing and said "best damn toy we own, I like playing with it and I'm 40 yrs old, and it brings all the kids such joy" we have adored her for years <3"
17. Sleep Sheep Sound Machine
When you're begging for a good night's sleep, you will be grateful for this little guy. Sweet to cuddle with and the soothing sounds will help send your baby off to dreamland.
"Love this product. Our month old baby won't sleep at night without this guy. I even find the sounds relaxing and they help me get to sleep.The size is great for the bassinet or stroller.Great purchase and would make an awesome baby shower gift."
18. Summer Infant 3Dlite Convenience Stroller
No one wants to mess around with a stroller that has a bad wheel, won't stay open and is too heavy to close. The Summer Infant umbrella stroller is the perfect side to keep in the car for trips to the mall. It folds and unfolds easily and has enough storage to carry everything you need.
Awesome! Best stroller ive bought!
"Taking out of the pack age, easy put together and just feels solid and high quality. Cup holders, carry strap, pockets for phone /wallet, storage below, reclining can go down almost flat! Rides super smooth. And one of the best parts, the handles are high so you Dont slouch pushing! And they are soft handles! This feels like a $100+ stroller for half the price. Folds without taking much room , opens easy, light to carry with the strap, there's not much else could want! Cup holder little flimsy no biggie. And you can put by the little one or up on handles. I'm.looking to see if I can buy an extra to have it both places. Overall, great deal I wish I didn't waste my money and time on the $20-$30 small umbrella strollers. This is an awesome mid size not too small so its comfortable for sitting laying all day adventure but not too big bulky Or heavy like the travel system ones. Can't say how it holds up with wear BC just got it, will see after our cross country trip! If it falls apart I'll update !!"
19. Lansinoh Breastmilk Storage Bags
If you are a breastfeeding mom, but want to be able to leave your baby for more than 3 hours at a time, you will need to pump from time to time. These breastmilk storage bags are perfect for storing and freezing your milk!
These are my favorite breast milk storage bags
"These are my favorite breast milk storage bags. I've used Lansinoh breastmilk storage bags for the past two years now and I absolutely love them. I lay my milk bags flat in the freezer and then I line them up for better organization. I ordered these a week or so ago and noticed these are a bit different. These bags have a bit of a "frame" to them which is the best I can think of to describe the bags. I'm guessing the manufacturer changed the bags because they tear when frozen if you don't leave a little air in the bags. (Obviously if you freeze a liquid, it'll expand). Anyway, I did find that when I freeze these new bags, my frozen milk isn't as flat as I'd like them to be.. I still like them though."
Continue to the next page for the best water bottle for your toddler and a carrier that you can use from newborn to toddler.
20. Contigo Autospout Straw Striker
There are SO many kids water bottles to choose from, and this one has been by far the best. Easy to clean, dishwasher safe and your little one can suck from the straw or you can remove it and they can tilt to drink. It didn't take long before my toddler was able to open and close it all on her own, and the handle makes it easy to carry around.
Cute, Durable Water Bottle for Toddler and Preschooler
"Great first water bottle for our one-year-old. He loves pressing the button to deploy the drinking spout, then smashing the spout down for the satisfying "click" closure. Interestingly, this mechanism was more difficult for our five-year-old to figure out because she was used to a simpler folding spout on her old drinking bottle. Despite the perceived complexity, I like the mechanism because it keeps the spout protected and more sanitary. The top assembly separates well enough for a nice thorough cleaning -- soak the lid and straw tube in warm soapy water then scrub all the nooks and crannies with a small brush. I only put the bottle piece in the dishwasher. It's all very durable and I think our kids will be using them for years to come."
21. Skip Hop Baby Zoo Little Kid and Toddler Lunch Bag
Skip Hop Baby Zoo makes the cutest products and the lunchbag is no different. Having a lunch bag is key for your baby, whether they're 6 months old and you're carrying bottles and purees, or they're a toddler going for a picnic in the park.
The cutest lunch bag I've seen!
"My 3-year old LOVES this bag. I bought it for her first day at preschool and she was so excited to use it, that she almost forgot her nerves about her first day. It is so cute - she especially loves the rainbow zipper - and she told me that has the best lunch bag in her class. It's the perfect size and has a compartment for an ice pack to keep everything cool, and the inside is easy to wipe clean. We're beyond happy with this purchase."
22. Mega Blocks Building Bag
This is the toy that will continue to get played with year after year! Whether you have a one-year-old or a five-year-old, kids love to build things! With the variety of shapes and colors, they will spend hours letting their imagination run wild.
"i bought these blocks in preparation for my growing baby! I have a 4 month old, and even though he is not quite ready to play "build" with these blocks, they are a great product to start him on... when he gets older we'll probably upgrade to legos, but These Mega Blocks are great for babies that put everything in their mouths! easy to grip as well. and "fun for the parents!"
23. Philips Advent 3-in-1 Electric Steam Sterilizer
Even if you're breastfeeding, having a good sterilizer is key! From cleaning pacifiers, to toys, and everything else baby could put in their mouth, this is the most versatile sterilizer. With a large opening that fits everything from bottles to blocks and a removable upper portion for nipples and lids, you won't regret this purchase.
"This came on time, in perfect condition and it has been a lifesaver for my daughter and her newborn! She is able to wash the bottles, put them in the sterilizer and they are ready to go in less than 10 minutes! She can fill a couple bottles and keep the rest in the sterilizer ready to go for later! She had to switch from Avent bottles to Playtex and she still uses this! All her breast pump components, pacifiers and bottles go in this perfectly!"
24. Foam Floor Mat Tiles
Create a space that is just for baby. Whether you are doing some "tummy time" or your baby is learning to crawl, these floor mats are a lifesaver. Easy to clean up and the extra cushion under baby is perfect.
"I have an 8 month old and hard wood floors. So, we decided to buy some foam tiles. You seem to get more for less buying a big set of tiles with the alphabet inside. But, we didn't want extra pieces our daughter could pick at and get out. We wanted as simple as possible. These are very cute. They don't smell bad to me or my husband. We bought three sets to cover the floor in front of the couch in place of a rug. Baby girl seems to love them. (Plus they're easy to clean when she makes a mess) ((p.s.- in the photo we left out 3 tiles and please excuse the slight baby butt to the side lol )) Would buy again!"
25. Magnetic Building Block Set
This is one toy that your kid will not get board of. When they're little they will love the way the blocks attach together, and as they get older they will love to let their imagination go and create fun shapes. This is a perfect gift!
"My child sits and makes different shapes and colors everyday and it keeps her busy for long periods of time. The building blocks make her think creatively and it is amazing to see how she tries to follow the shapes in the book and build them herself. I'm so happy that I found this game with so many parts and various shapes and options.It even has some blocks to do simple math problems....genius"
26. Fisher-Price Learn-to-Flush Potty
Is it time to start potty-training? Say bye to the extra expense of diapers and hello to accidents and more laundry! Reward your little one with fun noises and music that this great potty has.
Finally got my toddler toilet trained
"This is the little potty that we needed to finally get our toddler toilet trained. It is an adorable potty that makes toilet training fun. It has sensors inside the toilet seat so that when it becomes full it sings a song. The seat can be taken off and attached to the regular toilet seat. I did try it and it doesn't work with the toilet shape that we currently have. But that's ok. It also teaches toddlers how to flush the toilet after use ( and I guess not to be afraid of it as well). We are very happy with this potty!!! Thanks Fischer price!"
27. Infantino Spiral Activity Toy
In the first few months of life, baby doesn't play with much. This is definitely one of the first toys when they do though! Wrap it around the handle of the car seat and your little one will be entertained while you're out and about.
"This is a wonderful baby toy. Four month old loves it. The spiral can be hung from any bar but is easy to pull of the bar. Can be easily held and is entertaining with the shapes and colors. MY little guy loves to grab it an shove sections in is mouth. Actually keeps him entertained for a few minutes at a time. Don't think of it as a mobile because on it's own it will not attach anywhere but you can loop it onto a stroller bar or crib rail. A slight tug will pull it from the bar but it seems that is part of the entertainment value. This is a great toy for the infant. Hope this helps."
28. Hide N' Tweet Eggs
My daughter became instantly obsessed with this toy at playgroup on day! Between the noises they make and taking them apart and putting them back together, they were an instant hit.
Wonderful, adorable, well made, darling little toy!!!
"Everyone loves this toy!! It is absolutely adorable. I gave it to my grandson for Easter, age 1 1/2. He plays with them constantly, just adorable little gift. GREAT PRICE, well made, so cute!!!"
29. The First Years On-The-Go Booster Seat
Don't worry about calling ahead to see if there's a booster-seat or high chair for your baby. Pick up this On-The-Go Booster seat and be covered at restaurants, family gathering and friends' houses.
Awesome for Travel, Restaurants, and Even Everyday
"We LOVE THIS SEAT! I was hesitant to buy because the next comparable product is twice the price, but I'm SO glad we went with this model. It packs down SO small - think the size of a bible case if that means anything to you - but it works PERFECT as a booster/high chair. We used this for a week at a vacation rental in Florida for our 8 month old and it was the perfect height for him to belly up to the table with us. The self-inflating feature is so cool, and makes setup a breeze. It wipes clean just fine. I can't recommend it highly enough. We're going to take this along with us to restaurants from now on, too, no more dealing with icky high chairs."
30. Ergobaby Multi-Position Carrier with Storage Pocket
I saved the best for last! This is my favorite baby carrier of all time. Use it with a newborn insert and carry a brand new baby. You can even back-wear it with a toddler and still be comfortable. The strap adjust to size so both parents can use it, with limited adjustment. A must-have for any parent!
Couldn't do life with 5 kids without this!
"After 11 years of babywearing and 7 of those years ergo wearing, I can not say enough good things about the ergo! I've had the ergo sport, the camel colored ergo classic, and now the black classic with the camel hood. I've also given ergos to my friends and family, because when you have a baby, you need an ergo! I'm not sure how I survived through 2 kids without this, but I couldn't live without one for my other 3 kids."
What is has been your life-saving baby item? Share it with us!