What do you really need for your new baby?

After a recent trip to visit the recipient of the Pooh Meets Planes bedding collection, Kirstin was reminded of how overwhelming being a new parent can be. Everyone telling you what to do, how and when to do things can be mind-blowing. Being a new parent is wonderful and exciting, it should be simplified, not more confusing.

Having been through the new parent stage ourselves many times over at Stinkerbell Designs, we think we've gotten pretty good at separating the things that are really important apart from those that are just a waste of time... and sometimes money.

With so many options out there for new parents, how can you know what's a good deal and what's just going to take up space or collect dust? We've taken the time to compile a list of things that are really necessary, good for everyday uses and could possibly save you some money in the long run.

Starting from the moment your precious little one arrives, you have to have a way to cart the little guy around. A good car seat is a wise investment and one you should think about. While a carrier-base combo is most popular and usually comes with some sort of stroller attaching option, it doesn't take long to be bulky, especially once Jr. starts getting bigger. A convertible car seat is another good option. It grows with your child and can save you from having to upgrade to a booster seat for a little while once your little one is forward facing.

Of course, using a convertible car seat that stays in your car means that your travel system stroller will miss it's buddy. That's why it's not a bad idea to think about an umbrella stroller, like Joovy Kooper (shown right). They are less bulky and a nice one comes with the larger "deluxe" wheels like you see on the travel systems, a basket under the seat and even the coveted cup holder! Take it from us, trying to manage a carrier with a hefty 6 month old while struggling with a cumbersome stroller can turn a quick, simple trip to the grocery store into a sweaty workout!

When you're not out and about, you want to keep baby occupied. Believe it or not, babies get bored! When Baby is bored, mom is on full alert. If you need to take a minute or two to fold some laundry, load the dishwasher or just sit down and recuperate, a swing, bouncy seat, Exersaucer or playmat can be a lifesaver. Make sure baby has something to look at or listen to. High contrasts like black and white stimulate their senses and keep their attention drawn. Changing Baby's position after a few minutes piques their interest and keeps them from getting bored as well.

For the times Baby is sleeping, invest in a good monitor. It doesn't need to be fancy and if you're easily distracted, the new video monitors might not be such a good idea because it could be very tempting to just sit and watch Baby instead of getting the rest you need too!

A good monitor doesn't have to be expensive. Fisher-Price, Sony and Graco make several quality, affordable monitors and most come with two receivers. It's always a good idea to get the monitor before the baby comes and test it all over your house, garage and yard. You want to make sure it will reach throughout your home and don't be shocked if you happen to pick up a random cell phone conversation, or even a neighbors baby monitor on occasion!

Another important item that is a must have for sleeptime is a waterproof mattress pad. In fact, get two: one to have on the mattress and a spare for when the other is in the wash. The same goes for regular sheets too, but we recommend having more than 2. When Baby is about to transition from one size diaper to another, you could go through several sheets in one day.

Since diapers are a fundamental part of having a baby, it's a wise choice to keep multiple sizes on hand. That way, you're always prepared when one size is too small.

For disposing of those diapers, Diaper Genies and Diaper Champs are very popular. However, once Baby is eating more solid foods and past size 1 diapers, you'll be changing out the disposal system almost as much as you're changing diapers! It's perfectly reasonable to consider if a diaper discarding system is really the right choice or if using a discreet trash can is just as acceptable.

Lastly, our all-time favorite must have is the horseshoe shaped nursing pillow, similar to Boppy. It's so versatile and perfect for feeding, especially after Baby is able to hold her own bottle. And while she's still young, it's great for tummy time or lounging under an activity mat.

There are a lot of great products out there for new parents. The options can seem overwhelming and hopefully we've helped shed some light on those things that are really necessary.

Shameless Plug: don't let your Boppy go bare! Get custom nursing pillow covers at stinkerbelldesigns.etsy.com

Proverbs 14:8
The wisdom of the prudent is to give thought to their ways...