Samantha,
When you look at the breast pumps, get one that plugs into the wall, they have better motors. See what the
La Leche League has to offer, or recommend. I met with a lactation consultant and she had several types of pumps that she carried, or would rent. I opted to just buy it, and not have to pay rental fees.
Wendi M.
There's a book called Baby Bargains (by Denise and Alan Fields) that was an invaluable resource for us. Its very helpful - grades most major baby products like car seats and strollers, and is very helpful for weeding out things that are not truly necessary. Offers reviews on toys, maternity clothes, pretty much everything. And their book Baby 411 is also worth getting, was a huge relief to thumb thru when we had those many, many new-parent questions after we brought our little girl home. Good luck! -lauren.
When it came to my first daughter seriously nothing was too much. I wanted everything regardless of friends telling me their oppinions. This is what I got and this is my oppinion.
Best investment ever was a video monitor. We have the Mobicam Ultra - still use it and she is 18 months old. They have a new version which is not as good - it makes a nightmare noise when on Voice Activation. I talked to the company directly and they said Walmart still sells the Mobicam Ultra - $179.00. I looked at every baby monitor and this was by far the best one. Voice Activation is key so the screen isn't on all night when you are sleeping.
I had the plain jane Graco swing it was alrigt but I hear the new ones that go in a circle and side to side are awesome!!
I had 3 bouncers - for some reason I wanted all of my stuff to match Graco pack n play, bouncer and swing - so pointless. The last bouncer I got was a Bobby Bouncer - best thing ever she sat in it all the time and loved it.
Gymini (floor activity mat) they spend hours on them when they are 6 weeks -4 months old.
I bought the bugaboo Chameleon - pain in the but to assemble when you are trying to go to the mall but super comfy for the kids. If I had to do it again I would look at the Bugaboo Bee - I think it is all one piece.
Peg Prego Infant Car Seat - loved it.
Medela Pump In Style Breast Pump - awesome. Worked better than the one I rented from the hospital.
Jumperoo - great if you have a kid who likes to jump - mine did so that was a good investment.
Peg Prego High Chair - works well but is very similar to the Combi which I think is less.
We purchased Capretti Furniture From goores - still love it.
The best crib mattress - which I truly believe has made my child a good sleeper is the Moonlight Slumber Little Dreamer mattress. - Goores
Wipes warmer - personal preference - I don't use one too afraid of a fire in the babies room.
Pack'N Play - Not neccesary if you aren't planning on traveling. Never used mine.
Baby 411 Book - awesome used it all the time and have many friends say the same.
I was a swaddle addict - I used the Swaddle Designs Brand - they are really big and stay on great. Not to mention they are modern and cute.
Also get at least 2-3 premie gowns - my daughter did not fit into 0-3 months stuff until she was 2 months old. She had a NB size outfit from Babies R us to go home in and it was huge!!!
Big fan of the Dr Browns BPA free bottles.