I absolutely agree. My mother used to tell us make noise while they’re asleep. Let them get used to noise. I used to blasting music. I used to vacuum under their crib and they slept through it. You don’t want to baby that will wake up at a drop of a pen, it will drive you crazy and you’ll never get anything done.
This is the best advice for new moms. I’m 57, my kids are grown. They had toys and some of the things you mentioned, but honestly they played with a rolling pin, sweet potatoes (I kid you not), plastic butter tubs, etc. They turned out just fine. And….i didn’t have a monitor with my oldest. Our room was next to his where I would hear him if he cried out. God doesn’t give us moms those inner alerts and intuitions for nothing!!! Great video!! 🥰
Oh my gosh. Finally someone I can relate to. I'm a first time mom and have a 3 month old baby girl. People always gave/give unsolicited advice to me and think I'm crazy for not buying all these gadgets. I'm like...ummm if my grandmother and mom didn't use these things, I'm pretty sure I'll be just fine 😂
As a Mama of almost 4 kiddos myself I 100% agree with these. I think all new moms should watch this. It would take so much pressure off of feeling like you "need" all of these things. Also if you are part of a good sized church community or friend group I would try to borrow anything you can for equipment before buying.
My husband and I just found out that we're pregnant with our first and I've been stressing about what the baby will need won't need and I didn't want to spend money on unnecessary items. This video is so helpful! Thank you so much!
This is gold. Thank you for saying this out loud! As a first-time mom at 33 weeks pregnant feeling so overwhelmed by the cost and clutter associated with baby supplies, this brought me a lot of peace and confidence in my decision to remain minimalist.
It’s so true! Farmhouse on Boone has a video that kept me calm whenever i started to feel overwhelmed - I’m pregnant with my third and don’t want to actually buy anything right now, but wanted to do the nesting thing so I’m doing it virtually! Haha! But seriously - you don’t need much. Another video I came across helped, basically you need food (breast or bottle, the latter requires a few accessories but you don’t need the whole enchilada like bottle warmers etc), a place to poop (diapers, and cloth if you’re interested can be simple to maintain but it’s a learning curve. Again, you do NOT need extraneous things like wipe warmers) some clothes (I always say this is highly dependent on each person’s laundry situation which is why you get SUCH a huge variety of advice on the topic. My conclusion has been everyone regardless of size goes through approx 1 standard load of laundry per week. You can mix em, separate em, do a load every day or all on one day per week, but number your baby’s outfits by your laundry system - I’d say 3/day if they spit up lots) a place to put them (baby carrier all the way baby! There’s often trial and error so beg borrow or steal till you find your magic solution then spend the money, and the best solution month 2-4 is one of those simple chairs like a baby bjorn but there’s cheap kinds in every swap shed and thrift store, just ugly. After they outgrow that: tummy time!!!) and last a place to sleep (we did a sidecar solution, never did a crib, went straight to a double size floor bed that both kids share now. Only now that our oldest is 4 so we plan to get a bunk and then baby #3 will share with the second on the floor bed. Best ever. Doubles as a great play space. Oh. And sleep sacks. Solves so many problems including traveling!) I do believe in baby stuff but very little compared to what I see in others’ homes. Love this video and all hail minimalist UA-cam moms sharing their wisdom! You have collectively helped me to tame the chaos even tho I’m not minimalist! ❤
I think all new moms need to watch this video!! You were so right on the unnecessary items!! My babies loved their swing!! Strap them in & I could go to the bathroom!! Kristen you look so beautiful!! Ivy is just adorable!!🥰
Thanks for this wonderful video. You’re so right about toys too. Babies are simple, and naturally minimalistic. Infancy is the only time of life when humans don’t care about materialistic things. They are happy just with skin-to-skin, smiles and hugs, and of course, milk.
I LOVE THIS! Im a first time mom and have denied even a baby shower because i just want the bare essentials. I will figure out what i NEED along the way. Everyone thinks im a lunatic but hey, less waste and anxiety with a house full of stuff we don’t need. Ive been enjoying all your videos ive watched so far. Now SUBSCRIBED 😊
I never used a baby wrap either. I carried them in my arms or put them down in their crib or on the floor or in a high chair. My mother who is a nurse taught me to use the bathtub for infants. She said it’s the safest because if you get distracted by anything and have to take your eye off of the baby , you can pull the plug to drain out the water in the tub (if there is any )and then you can safely leave the baby for a moment if it’s an emergency. I used a bath sponge / cushion made for bathing infants in the bath tub or sink. It cuts way down on their slipperiness! It’s small and lightweight. Then once bath is over I squeezed out all of the water and let it air dry . Once baby can sit up, they can sit on it in the tub. This can be used in the kitchen sink as well. But I agree with you on almost everything else ! For breastfeeding , use whatever works for you and helps you . I am a mother of 5, grandmother of 5 , Child Development Specialist Preschool Teacher of typical children and children with developmental delays.
Dear Kristen, I love your no nonsense approach. My oldest children are 45 and my youngest 2 are 43 and 41. Toys were scarce but kitchen items were plentiful. A spoon and a pan=drums !!! One thing I made available in the kitchen was a cupboard at floor accessibility. It was empty and they could get in and out on their own. All four totally enjoyed it. The money saved on the so-called must haves will provide a wonderful family outing several times a year. Hugs 💞
Honestly, your videos about necessary / unnecessary things were the best one so far. I'm now expecting a first child and being overly anxious about all the stuff you supposedly "need" and this helped me a LOT! So thank you! :)
I'm a grandma now and totally agree with items mentioned in this video. I feel there is a lot of pressure these days to purchase all the items for a baby. Baby will grow up fine without them. I too see a lot of these items just cluttering homes. So much visual clutter.
With our first and now 2nd child on the way, we're using our crib that has a side changer on it. We used it all the time! I used a boppy for my first and it was the worst breastfeeding pillow, but it was good to help sit babys up. I ordered the momcozy pillow for my 2nd baby for breastfeeding. I don't care about how I look, I always used nursing bras and will use them again! They made it so much easier to breastfeed because your boobs change size drastically, and it's hard to lift a normal bra without it eventually ruining it. Never used baby laundry detergent. I used Tide and Downy and never had issues. We always used our baby bath ( the same one you shared) and are using it again for our 2nd. Our bathroom is also tiny with 1 small sink, toilet and shower crammed into a small space, but we've figured out where to put it. I would shower with my babies but it's too risky because I have seizures. I don't think I ever used baby lotion. We also found diaper rash a waste and annoying. We never had to use them because we used pampers products, and would always change our child immediately after an accident, so there was no moisture for the baby to sit in for long periods of time to causes rashes. We used Shea Moisture bath and shampoo for our daughter and that's it. It was a good brand at the time that wasn't harmful like the cheap brands. I'll be using RawSugars brand with my 2nd because Shea Moisture changed their ingredients and RawSugar seems to be pretty clean. We bought baby washclothes for our first and got more for our second. Baby washclothes are thinner, making it easier to clean their ears because you shouldn't use qtips, and they're easier to get in the creases of your baby as well. My first child is 7 and we still use hers to clean her ears! We used our own towels for our daughter, but got some baby towels for our 2nd. They're not a necessity, but they're nice because we don't have a lot of space in our bathroom and it would be easier to find a spot to hang a baby towel than another big towel. Definitely agree with the bath toys! Some people say to just put hot glue over the holes but they've fallen out before so it's not worth it. I would just find toys that can't cause mold. And they don't even need to be toys. My daughter will play with stuff like cups, bowls, paint brushes, pebbles, and loves it. We've only bought toys that encourage imaginative and creative play for our child, and our 2nd will use them as well. Stuff like tons of blocks, Magna tiles, dress up clothes, a kitchen play set, a dollhouse, and others like that. She will also use things around the house like pillows, my yoga mat, blankets, her table and more to include in her playtime everyday. It's important to not have a lot of toys because it can be overwhelming on the child and a huge stressful mess to the parents. I don't allow my daughter to watch tv until at least noon, sometimes later, so she has no choice but to make up her own games and ideas. We had a play mat with our first and are using the same one with our 2nd. Just get one that can be easily folded and put away when it's not in use. Never used items like a baby blender, bottle sterilizer, formula machine, or overly expensive baby monitors. We used a wipe warmer and got another for our 2nd (the same in the pic) because they really are useful during those night time changes! I mean, think about it.. would you want to wake up in the middle of the night all warm and comfy to have a cold wet wipe go across you, and the air making it even colder? It keeps them from being too disturbed and from crying so much. Never used a diaper pale for our first because we could just take the poopy diapers out to the trash outside in the garage. But where we live now, we don't have any place to take it outside. I did days, if not weeks of trying to decide on a diaper pale. I know I absolutely didn't want the diaper genie! For awhile I thought that I wanted the Ubbi Steel but the more I read about the reviews, it seemed risky to get. Now I plan on getting the munchkin one and I'm hoping it works! Noise machines are an absolute waste! Never used one with our daughter. We just always turned the fan on, or had noise from the tv or music on in the background. We've always used blackout curtains, but only because of those days when it's brighter outside at night. I've always struggled to fall asleep unless the room is pitch black dark and my daughter is the same way. Me and my daughter both still wake up about the same time every morning around 7:30. Never used a bumbo or walkers, because they can affect their development. We had a baby swing for our first and will be using with our 2nd. It was rarely used but helped the baby get in naps, and to give me a break from constantly holding them. Same with bouncers. It was fun for them, and gave me a hands free break. Never really did a nursery theme for our daughter because her crib was in our room, which was very bright and colorful. My daughter will be sharing her room with her baby brother and her room is also very colorful and bright. I don't think themes or baby decor is important, but I do think it helps for their rooms to be bright and colorful just like how their toys should be to help with development. I wish we could've had a rocking chair! It would've been so much easier breastfeeding! I was always having to climb in my tall bed while dealing with my csection scar and it was painful! I wish we had one for this baby, but I at least don't have to worry about finding comfortable places this time. My daughter was born in April and we used socks because my parents kept the house freezing cold! Our son will be born in fall/winter so we'll definitely buy socks again. Never bought baby shoes and still won't. They can also affect the development. We had the scratch mittens for our daughter but they seemed useless because we always kept her nails trimmed and filed. Plus they probably keep your baby from feeling with their hands. Muslim clothes are what we use for burp clothes and swaddles, but my daughter didn't want to stay swaddled for long. So swaddles also seem pointless to me, or at least the expensive ones. Car seat toys can be dangerous if you ever got in a wreck. Never used them anyways. I made our baby registry for our expected son, and I only added the necessities and a few wanted items. We were absolutely broke with our daughter and could only afford the basics with help from my parents. So after making our new baby registry, it kept feeling like I was forgetting important items. Its an amazon registry and when I added everything that I needed/already had, it said that I only had about 40-50% of baby items saved to the registry. So yeah, a lot of baby items are unnecessary and just made to profit businesses. I know that was a lot to type out but hope it helps someone lol.
I had three boys and their favorite toy was a cardboard box and my cabinet full of plastic storage containers. .They all survived not having all the latest baby equipment. I never had a stroller. A Radio Flyer wagon served as our multiple use necessity. I did carry my babies a lot. Not real handy sometimes but we all managed . .My life savor was a bouncy swing that hung in a doorway They loved it and it made their legs stronger . .Your girls sure look healthy and happy to me .Babies need to be loved, Feed , and kept warm and clean. Those are the most important things. You are doing a fine job.
Hi Kristen! I didn’t use any of that stuff either! I bathed my babies in a clean sink too and so did my mother. We didn’t have any of the fancy things that they have now so we just made do. You’re a wonderful mommy and you’re doing just fine sweetheart. God has blessed you with a beautiful family. Take care. ❤️💕
I agree many of those things you mentioned are not necessary, the one thing I bought basically for my was the rocking chair a very confortable one, I left it on my living room and while my kids were watching tv I was breastfeeding 🤱 the baby and resting my back 😍 every one at home loved that chair we never got rid of it.
Kristen, I'm a mom of 4. Your list is excellent!! Mom's don't need all the "stuff". And I love that you don't buy toys. You're precious girls are using and developing their curiosity and creativity to the fullest!! You're such an amazing mom. You're an inspiration and such a refreshing treat🩷
This is the best most honest review bcz even I am pregnant and I did not thing of buying these things as they seemed useless but most influencer promote this kind of stuff.Love from India ❤This is my first pregnancy.
This is so helpful as a ftm. I know that a lot of these companies try to market things to excess but i just want to give my son what he needs and love him. I dont want to be overwhelmed with things. Great video❤️
I didn’t understand wipe warmers until I used the perri bottle with cold water down there postpartum and it was horrible. Can’t imagine what it’s like for a baby. However, I just warm it up in my hand before putting it on them.
Such great tips! On children playing with regular household items, my friend’s preschool daughter had scads of toys - including many dolls - but the item she played with 95% of the time was a half-filled hot water bottle. It was her baby. The water inside made it wiggle like a baby and the size was perfect for her to cuddle. She would wrap it in a receiving blanket and was supremely happy. 😊 Thank you for mentioning open-ended toys! They’re the ones with staying power and they spark children’s creativity.
I agree, but we were gifted the hooded baby towels, I thought we'd just use regular towels. Surprisingly, the hooded towels were what we loved using for our kids, well into toddlerhood. Just put the hood over their heads wrap towel around their bodies, loved them! Even ended up buying more.
I am a grandmother now and I can say you are right I see these new moms that buy everything, and they are not necessary. I changed my kids on the floor or the bed, couch. I used regular towels also, it is amazing how much money young women are spending on baby items. The baby doesn’t remember bath toys or baby gyms or other play things. I used cotton diapers and did the laundry every other day, My kids made it through life with no issues. I did not even use the plastic disposable diapers they are so much money and then the filling of land fills? Times have changed if they only knew the money they are spending and that they really do not need them.
I’ve never been so grateful for an advice video! Down to the “early American” concept of knowing for centuries we didn’t need all this junk! Thank you!! I’m due in January and this was a great video to help reduce the registry and know what I really need!
Agree with everything you say, with the exception of the room decor. I really think a room for a baby or young child should reflect that age group with appropriate pictures and such. Otherwise you advice is spot on. There is no need to fill a house up with baby clutter.
Thank you for making the life of as mom seem so simple when it comes to ‘necessities ‘. I’ve been so overwhelmed with what it is that I ‘need’ and this helped a lot.
I guess everyone is so different but you definitely learn after the first. 1) My boobs grew 5 sizes and my nursing bra felt like heaven it was also so convenient. 2) My baby bath was cheap but a lifesaver too as they loved bath time and I could sit on the floor next to them as opposed to standing at a sink or hunching over. I love the little seat in it as I was so scared to bathe my first it made me confident. 3) Beware some kids are easy not to buy toys for, others will beg and throw tantrums until they get their way. Especially with no siblings to play with. 4) My tommee tippee bin was also the best keeping the smell away, so much so I kept it for that time of the month. 4) My first daughter loved a walker and walked very early, I bought it as she never crawled. 5) Socks were a must in a very cold climate their feet were so cold in bodysuits I would put them on under a bodysuit in the day time. 6) How do you look so amazing? Concealer for my black eyebags was also a must.
Kristen you are absolutely correct regarding baby items that you do not need to buy, they just clutter up the house, toys they won’t need them for a long time. Thank you again for another great video ❤❤❤❤have a Blessed week
It's so nice to hear you say you dont get toys or do bath toys. Having so many extra things stresses me out, and the bath his just to get clean, not to play, they can play when they get out lol. I so relate to this!
Love watching all the videos like this makes me see what people agree and differ on. I have a big chest so nursing bras are one of the best items ever made.
Even tho I do use many of the items you mentioned on a daily basis, all of them were gifted to us, i do think you find your own routine and your way to do the things you have to do. So just get what you want for your home and baby and you’ll sort it out little by little.
Baby baths are highly dependent on your bathroom space. We have a tiny sink, and a shower cabin that can fit one person at a time. Where would you bathe a baby in this setting?
My first daughter was born in 69 and Sesame St was big then. I put her in front of it twice a day and by the time she was 20 months old, she knew all her letters, capital from lower case. I didn't know! My neighbor discovered it and told me. She would say that's lower case b. So, they do learn from educational toys too.
I used the receiving blankets from the hospital as burp cloths. They work great. I was not going to get a Boppy for my 3rd baby, as I really didn't use the one I was gifted for the first 2, but was gifted one again and have used it this time. It helpwd get her at the right level when she had trouble latching. Totally agree on not needing a changing table.
This is an automatic save to my parenting playlist on YT. My husband and I don’t have kids yet but I am taking notes for when we do! We have a similar mental test. Did moms have this 100+ years ago? If not, I need to justify the money, space and energy that it’ll take to maintain.
I nursed both of my boys and I leaked milk terribly, unfortunately especially at church, at the time my oldest was born, we had at least babies under 1 year old in the baby nursery, one Sunday morning at church a baby cried in the nursey and my milk dropped and I looked down and had LARGE wet spots in the front of my dress, fortunately a friend ran me home and I was able to change,. My mom took white flannel and cut 4 circles out of the material and she sewed the circles layered and then sewed criss cross, these were wonderful. I put them in a lingerie bag, and used them for both of my boys,,,, she also made me super soft flannel cloths to use as burper rags and baby wash cloths.... did you use cloth or disposable? our diaper pail stank too, lol
Great, common sense advice! Just think like our grandparents or great grandparents did…no need to fill the pockets of the manufacturers. You and Ivy are both so charming and adorable!
as a FTM, i second just bathing with the baby. Me and my husband have a bath for our 9 month old but we have maybe used it.... less than 10 times? ever since he was very very small either me or my hubs would get in the tub and hold the baby while the other helps to clean and rinse. We also have a tradition of singing the Darth Vader music/ imperial march at towel time and now our son just smiles when he hears the tune hahah. For what it's worth I have a disability so bathing baby in the sink or lugging the baby bath out is harder for me. Now that our son can sit independently and play etc bath time has become a lot more fun.
Honestly you can change baby any wear got car setup for it and diaper bag when on the go. However at I pack and play set up for living and side for all his diapers lotions anything I might need. Bed I only use the changing if it poopy diaper just avoid mess that might involve changing sheets at night. Otherwise I change him on my bed or his bassinet real fast. Just works out house each house is different to what type set up works.
Nursing pillow is good after c section at least for me it worked. Rest I agree with. Especially fancy laundry detergents, changing table, bath toys and nursery. Electric swing and playing mat is best again it may not work for others.
This video is awesome and I totally agree! I bathed my babies in the sink, didn't buy disgusting tubby toys, never had a gross plastic diaper genie and didn't buy all those crazy noise machines or anything. I wanted my babies to get used to noise and I could vacuum when they were sleeping and they never woke up. I know some young Moms even put a sign up not to ring the doorbell. My kids could nap anywhere, they didn't have to be in their own home. I could take them anywhere. Like you, I nursed all 4 until they ate food. Today there are so many gizmos and gadgets for babies and they are so unnecessary. I never had a boppy or nursing pillow or any of that, I used what was on the bed or sofa. We think alike, my friend. I can't wait to meet your sweet baby girl! Ivy is absolutely adorable! 💗
My babies loved their swing! Another thing to save money is cloth diapers!! My girls all broke out in rashes from disposable diapers. It’s no big deal to wash a load of diapers everyday! It will be so much fun to meet your new daughter! Prayers for all!
Opposite: my baby got huge rashes from the CLOTH diapers. Since they don't wick away the wetness, all that wetness stayed up against her skin. In the morning, she'd be SOAKED (including her clothes and the sheet), cold, and have a rash everywhere that the cloth had been, including up to her waist! I had originally been going to use cloth, but quickly rejected them for disposables, and never looked back.
My baby is going into 7w and I hate the hooded bath towel. The ones I gifted were so linty and it was sticking everywhere on him after a bath. I just bought a large beach towel and it’s absorbent, quick drying and is something he can use for a long while
Hi, I’m a mother of four and a grandmother of five and for the majority of your recommendations I agree but also every child is different and every everybody has to adapt to what works best for them. One item that was a lifesaver for me with kid number three was the baby swing. That was just a necessity for me. Also we had a single story home and I loved my changing table because it allowed me to have space underneath for storage of diapers, blankets and things. Although it wasn’t a necessity, it was some thing I used every day that was convenient and the babies room was right off the front room and main living area so that worked best for me. And I was a cloth diaper mom. I also found the sink for bathing or taking them in the shower with me worked best. Also many toys were beneficial for their development. Like wooden building blocks, shape sorters and wooden puzzles and a huge fan of Sesame Street! Playing in the yard was encouraged. We had a trampoline and a separate pool yard. But we lived in San Diego where the weather was lovely most of the time. Thank you for sharing ❤
Yes i am agreeing that we don't need the specific changing table ( it cost minimum 100€), specific little baby towel, water toys they get dirty inside and more. However you are a great lady and mom❤, very helpfull video our kids don t need all this things! Is just marketing consumism at the end. A more sostenibile earth for them🙏
the bra example you showed are def unflattering but they are sooooo comfy haha. Underwires are so painful and they are hard to pull up over your boob if it's big, but loosish fitting sports bras are def awesome for pulling up and they arent as ugly as the nursing bras lol. I can totally relate to not having all these extra things though, it's so much more to manage and once you have the baby, you are limited on time, so adding more to your plate just makes it worse. I hated asking someone to get my boppy when i would nurse, its so much easier to just grab a random pillow or stuffed animal lol. You are so right about this!
I agree, less is definitely more where babies are concerned. I do disagree on the nursing bras though. You don't necessarily need a specialized bra but you should avoid boned bras during pregnancy and breastfeeding as they can contribute to mastitis which you absolutely do not want to get.
I was wearing a nursing bra and when i took my top off my husband says “what is that why are you wearing a granny bra” totally killed the mood lol i totally hear ya.
Watching this video while nursing my baby on a boppy pillow. I also love the white noise machine. But I appreciate other people's opinion, gives you something to think about. 😊 I do agree with the majority of what you said tho.
As a mom from the 1970's-1980, I used cloth diapers. Old fashion with pins and plastic pants! I rinsed them in the toilet and then put them in high bucket with borax. Then would just dump into washer and drain spin and send through a cycle. If I were to use disposable I would still dump large number 2 into toilet before throwing them away. Your are right less is always best.
I love your vintage decor!! Although ugly, the nursing bras were actually very comfortable and a life saver for me, plus I ditched the wire bras in total once I became pregnant!
Kristen, you are so dang correct! New Moms buy so much now days. To each their own! I didn't have the money for all that baby stuff. I bought a used crib and dresser. He slept next to me, so I left the mattress high and railing down and changed him right there with everything needed. He was born in 1972, so things were so different than now. I didn't have much of anything, but my baby grew up healthy and happy! Materialistic items don't make the child, it's easier on the Mom! Everyone is different and that's what makes the world go around! Thanks for sharing as I agree with you! 🩷🩷🩷🩷🙏
This was great information and video. My children are grown now and l had mostly everything you mentioned, and didn't even use it. A lot of money wasted.
Hi Kristen, I love this! You know how to successfully run a household and save money. A lot of things you mentioned I didn’t have either. Noise machines? For a baby? That’s a new one. My child never had trouble sleeping. Ivy is so adorable!! Great video!
you are right about most of these thing but I had a bathtub for my boys and I put it on the kitchen table when they were very small. also I would change the diapers on the couch or bed or on my lap. I always gave them a bath every day and put baby oil on them when they were very small. my boys are 57 and 54 now. Barb
I’m 32 weeks pregnant with my second and I agree with all of these except the nursing bras and baby bath haha while I agree that those bras are horrific to look at, they were very helpful with pumping at work. And the baby bath… I was just scared I was going to drop my baby while I bathed them 😅
My daughter was born in 1981, and we had a tiny place. I didn't have a changing table either. Also, there weren't any baby wipes back then, so I used damp paper towels. Microfiber cloths are super soft. Same daughter used them on her own kids as washcloths, and to wipe Baby"s face snd hands after eating. Use soft, new cloths that are kept separate from the ones used for cleaning.
Thank you, I’m going to be a Mum for the first time and neither me or my partner grew up closely to anyone younger to even be familiar with what to expect. I think your advice will be really helpful!
With my third baby, we were at a friends house and I put her in their bouncer. She LOVED it - so I found on one FB marketplace for $15 and then resold for $15 when she outgrew it. I can’t recommend buying used enough! Money and space saving.
Great list. I did need a bounce chair for the baby to sit off the floor away from the pet situation but once it was outgrown it was the first item to leave. I was one of the mom’s with a reflux baby and I couldn’t wait for the day when I didn’t need 20 burp cloths. Definitely didn’t need any toys. Pantry staples and kitchenware did the trick.
Thankyou so much lovely. I’m due in January and have felt so overwhelmed with all the consumerism surrounding new mums. I would love to see a video on maternity wear too! God bless from New Zealand. Thankyou again x
My babies are in their 30s now and the items you mentioned were either not available back then, or we couldn’t afford them as I quit working when I became pregnant with my first baby. I made my own baby food (just put whatever we were eating into the blender). Co-slept with babies while nursing. Babies will learn more interacting with you than they’ll learn from playing with toys.
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I absolutely agree. My mother used to tell us make noise while they’re asleep. Let them get used to noise. I used to blasting music. I used to vacuum under their crib and they slept through it. You don’t want to baby that will wake up at a drop of a pen, it will drive you crazy and you’ll never get anything done.
This is the best advice for new moms. I’m 57, my kids are grown. They had toys and some of the things you mentioned, but honestly they played with a rolling pin, sweet potatoes (I kid you not), plastic butter tubs, etc. They turned out just fine. And….i didn’t have a monitor with my oldest. Our room was next to his where I would hear him if he cried out. God doesn’t give us moms those inner alerts and intuitions for nothing!!! Great video!! 🥰
I love this. Currently a few weeks from birthing my second and I just don’t want to buy unnecessary things like I did with my first.
Oh my gosh. Finally someone I can relate to. I'm a first time mom and have a 3 month old baby girl. People always gave/give unsolicited advice to me and think I'm crazy for not buying all these gadgets. I'm like...ummm if my grandmother and mom didn't use these things, I'm pretty sure I'll be just fine 😂
Finally I found a mom who says no to buying instead of all those people saying buy buy buy, I appreciate you
As a Mama of almost 4 kiddos myself I 100% agree with these. I think all new moms should watch this. It would take so much pressure off of feeling like you "need" all of these things. Also if you are part of a good sized church community or friend group I would try to borrow anything you can for equipment before buying.
My husband and I just found out that we're pregnant with our first and I've been stressing about what the baby will need won't need and I didn't want to spend money on unnecessary items. This video is so helpful! Thank you so much!
This is gold. Thank you for saying this out loud! As a first-time mom at 33 weeks pregnant feeling so overwhelmed by the cost and clutter associated with baby supplies, this brought me a lot of peace and confidence in my decision to remain minimalist.
It’s so true! Farmhouse on Boone has a video that kept me calm whenever i started to feel overwhelmed - I’m pregnant with my third and don’t want to actually buy anything right now, but wanted to do the nesting thing so I’m doing it virtually! Haha!
But seriously - you don’t need much. Another video I came across helped, basically you need food (breast or bottle, the latter requires a few accessories but you don’t need the whole enchilada like bottle warmers etc), a place to poop (diapers, and cloth if you’re interested can be simple to maintain but it’s a learning curve. Again, you do NOT need extraneous things like wipe warmers) some clothes (I always say this is highly dependent on each person’s laundry situation which is why you get SUCH a huge variety of advice on the topic. My conclusion has been everyone regardless of size goes through approx 1 standard load of laundry per week. You can mix em, separate em, do a load every day or all on one day per week, but number your baby’s outfits by your laundry system - I’d say 3/day if they spit up lots) a place to put them (baby carrier all the way baby! There’s often trial and error so beg borrow or steal till you find your magic solution then spend the money, and the best solution month 2-4 is one of those simple chairs like a baby bjorn but there’s cheap kinds in every swap shed and thrift store, just ugly. After they outgrow that: tummy time!!!) and last a place to sleep (we did a sidecar solution, never did a crib, went straight to a double size floor bed that both kids share now. Only now that our oldest is 4 so we plan to get a bunk and then baby #3 will share with the second on the floor bed. Best ever. Doubles as a great play space. Oh. And sleep sacks. Solves so many problems including traveling!) I do believe in baby stuff but very little compared to what I see in others’ homes. Love this video and all hail minimalist UA-cam moms sharing their wisdom! You have collectively helped me to tame the chaos even tho I’m not minimalist! ❤
I think all new moms need to watch this video!! You were so right on the unnecessary items!! My babies loved their swing!! Strap them in & I could go to the bathroom!! Kristen you look so beautiful!! Ivy is just adorable!!🥰
Thanks for this wonderful video. You’re so right about toys too. Babies are simple, and naturally minimalistic. Infancy is the only time of life when humans don’t care about materialistic things. They are happy just with skin-to-skin, smiles and hugs, and of course, milk.
I LOVE THIS! Im a first time mom and have denied even a baby shower because i just want the bare essentials. I will figure out what i NEED along the way. Everyone thinks im a lunatic but hey, less waste and anxiety with a house full of stuff we don’t need. Ive been enjoying all your videos ive watched so far. Now SUBSCRIBED 😊
I never used a baby wrap either. I carried them in my arms or put them down in their crib or on the floor or in a high chair. My mother who is a nurse taught me to use the bathtub for infants. She said it’s the safest because if you get distracted by anything and have to take your eye off of the baby , you can pull the plug to drain out the water in the tub (if there is any )and then you can safely leave the baby for a moment if it’s an emergency. I used a bath sponge / cushion made for bathing infants in the bath tub or sink. It cuts way down on their slipperiness! It’s small and lightweight. Then once bath is over I squeezed out all of the water and let it air dry . Once baby can sit up, they can sit on it in the tub. This can be used in the kitchen sink as well. But I agree with you on almost everything else ! For breastfeeding , use whatever works for you and helps you . I am a mother of 5, grandmother of 5 ,
Child Development Specialist
Preschool Teacher of typical children and children with developmental delays.
Dear Kristen, I love your no nonsense approach. My oldest children are 45 and my youngest 2 are 43 and 41. Toys were scarce but kitchen items were plentiful. A spoon and a pan=drums !!! One thing I made available in the kitchen was a cupboard at floor accessibility. It was empty and they could get in and out on their own. All four totally enjoyed it. The money saved on the so-called must haves will provide a wonderful family outing several times a year. Hugs 💞
Honestly, your videos about necessary / unnecessary things were the best one so far. I'm now expecting a first child and being overly anxious about all the stuff you supposedly "need" and this helped me a LOT! So thank you! :)
I'm a grandma now and totally agree with items mentioned in this video. I feel there is a lot of pressure these days to purchase all the items for a baby. Baby will grow up fine without them. I too see a lot of these items just cluttering homes. So much visual clutter.
So true!
With our first and now 2nd child on the way, we're using our crib that has a side changer on it. We used it all the time! I used a boppy for my first and it was the worst breastfeeding pillow, but it was good to help sit babys up. I ordered the momcozy pillow for my 2nd baby for breastfeeding. I don't care about how I look, I always used nursing bras and will use them again! They made it so much easier to breastfeed because your boobs change size drastically, and it's hard to lift a normal bra without it eventually ruining it. Never used baby laundry detergent. I used Tide and Downy and never had issues.
We always used our baby bath ( the same one you shared) and are using it again for our 2nd. Our bathroom is also tiny with 1 small sink, toilet and shower crammed into a small space, but we've figured out where to put it. I would shower with my babies but it's too risky because I have seizures. I don't think I ever used baby lotion. We also found diaper rash a waste and annoying. We never had to use them because we used pampers products, and would always change our child immediately after an accident, so there was no moisture for the baby to sit in for long periods of time to causes rashes. We used Shea Moisture bath and shampoo for our daughter and that's it. It was a good brand at the time that wasn't harmful like the cheap brands. I'll be using RawSugars brand with my 2nd because Shea Moisture changed their ingredients and RawSugar seems to be pretty clean.
We bought baby washclothes for our first and got more for our second. Baby washclothes are thinner, making it easier to clean their ears because you shouldn't use qtips, and they're easier to get in the creases of your baby as well. My first child is 7 and we still use hers to clean her ears! We used our own towels for our daughter, but got some baby towels for our 2nd. They're not a necessity, but they're nice because we don't have a lot of space in our bathroom and it would be easier to find a spot to hang a baby towel than another big towel. Definitely agree with the bath toys! Some people say to just put hot glue over the holes but they've fallen out before so it's not worth it. I would just find toys that can't cause mold. And they don't even need to be toys. My daughter will play with stuff like cups, bowls, paint brushes, pebbles, and loves it.
We've only bought toys that encourage imaginative and creative play for our child, and our 2nd will use them as well. Stuff like tons of blocks, Magna tiles, dress up clothes, a kitchen play set, a dollhouse, and others like that. She will also use things around the house like pillows, my yoga mat, blankets, her table and more to include in her playtime everyday. It's important to not have a lot of toys because it can be overwhelming on the child and a huge stressful mess to the parents. I don't allow my daughter to watch tv until at least noon, sometimes later, so she has no choice but to make up her own games and ideas.
We had a play mat with our first and are using the same one with our 2nd. Just get one that can be easily folded and put away when it's not in use. Never used items like a baby blender, bottle sterilizer, formula machine, or overly expensive baby monitors. We used a wipe warmer and got another for our 2nd (the same in the pic) because they really are useful during those night time changes! I mean, think about it.. would you want to wake up in the middle of the night all warm and comfy to have a cold wet wipe go across you, and the air making it even colder? It keeps them from being too disturbed and from crying so much. Never used a diaper pale for our first because we could just take the poopy diapers out to the trash outside in the garage. But where we live now, we don't have any place to take it outside. I did days, if not weeks of trying to decide on a diaper pale. I know I absolutely didn't want the diaper genie! For awhile I thought that I wanted the Ubbi Steel but the more I read about the reviews, it seemed risky to get. Now I plan on getting the munchkin one and I'm hoping it works!
Noise machines are an absolute waste! Never used one with our daughter. We just always turned the fan on, or had noise from the tv or music on in the background. We've always used blackout curtains, but only because of those days when it's brighter outside at night. I've always struggled to fall asleep unless the room is pitch black dark and my daughter is the same way. Me and my daughter both still wake up about the same time every morning around 7:30. Never used a bumbo or walkers, because they can affect their development. We had a baby swing for our first and will be using with our 2nd. It was rarely used but helped the baby get in naps, and to give me a break from constantly holding them. Same with bouncers. It was fun for them, and gave me a hands free break.
Never really did a nursery theme for our daughter because her crib was in our room, which was very bright and colorful. My daughter will be sharing her room with her baby brother and her room is also very colorful and bright. I don't think themes or baby decor is important, but I do think it helps for their rooms to be bright and colorful just like how their toys should be to help with development. I wish we could've had a rocking chair! It would've been so much easier breastfeeding! I was always having to climb in my tall bed while dealing with my csection scar and it was painful! I wish we had one for this baby, but I at least don't have to worry about finding comfortable places this time.
My daughter was born in April and we used socks because my parents kept the house freezing cold! Our son will be born in fall/winter so we'll definitely buy socks again. Never bought baby shoes and still won't. They can also affect the development. We had the scratch mittens for our daughter but they seemed useless because we always kept her nails trimmed and filed. Plus they probably keep your baby from feeling with their hands. Muslim clothes are what we use for burp clothes and swaddles, but my daughter didn't want to stay swaddled for long. So swaddles also seem pointless to me, or at least the expensive ones. Car seat toys can be dangerous if you ever got in a wreck. Never used them anyways.
I made our baby registry for our expected son, and I only added the necessities and a few wanted items. We were absolutely broke with our daughter and could only afford the basics with help from my parents. So after making our new baby registry, it kept feeling like I was forgetting important items. Its an amazon registry and when I added everything that I needed/already had, it said that I only had about 40-50% of baby items saved to the registry. So yeah, a lot of baby items are unnecessary and just made to profit businesses. I know that was a lot to type out but hope it helps someone lol.
I had three boys and their favorite toy was a cardboard box and my cabinet full of plastic storage containers. .They all survived not having all the latest baby equipment. I never had a stroller. A Radio Flyer wagon served as our multiple use necessity. I did carry my babies a lot. Not real handy sometimes but we all managed . .My life savor was a bouncy swing that hung in a doorway They loved it and it made their legs stronger . .Your girls sure look healthy and happy to me .Babies need to be loved, Feed , and kept warm and clean. Those are the most important things. You are doing a fine job.
Hi Kristen! I didn’t use any of that stuff either! I bathed my babies in a clean sink too and so did my mother. We didn’t have any of the fancy things that they have now so we just made do. You’re a wonderful mommy and you’re doing just fine sweetheart. God has blessed you with a beautiful family. Take care. ❤️💕
Bathed my baby in sink also and I used cloth diapers. My baby never broke out either.
I agree many of those things you mentioned are not necessary, the one thing I bought basically for my was the rocking chair a very confortable one, I left it on my living room and while my kids were watching tv I was breastfeeding 🤱 the baby and resting my back 😍 every one at home loved that chair we never got rid of it.
Kristen, I'm a mom of 4. Your list is excellent!! Mom's don't need all the "stuff". And I love that you don't buy toys. You're precious girls are using and developing their curiosity and creativity to the fullest!!
You're such an amazing mom.
You're an inspiration and such a refreshing treat🩷
This is the best most honest review bcz even I am pregnant and I did not thing of buying these things as they seemed useless but most influencer promote this kind of stuff.Love from India ❤This is my first pregnancy.
This is so helpful as a ftm. I know that a lot of these companies try to market things to excess but i just want to give my son what he needs and love him. I dont want to be overwhelmed with things. Great video❤️
Thanks for this! Our daughter is due in 6 weeks and I'm trying to see what I REALLY need. I hate having extra useless stuff around.
I am expecting our first baby in December. I am so so excited !
I didn’t understand wipe warmers until I used the perri bottle with cold water down there postpartum and it was horrible. Can’t imagine what it’s like for a baby. However, I just warm it up in my hand before putting it on them.
Such great tips! On children playing with regular household items, my friend’s preschool daughter had scads of toys - including many dolls - but the item she played with 95% of the time was a half-filled hot water bottle. It was her baby. The water inside made it wiggle like a baby and the size was perfect for her to cuddle. She would wrap it in a receiving blanket and was supremely happy. 😊 Thank you for mentioning open-ended toys! They’re the ones with staying power and they spark children’s creativity.
I agree, but we were gifted the hooded baby towels, I thought we'd just use regular towels. Surprisingly, the hooded towels were what we loved using for our kids, well into toddlerhood. Just put the hood over their heads wrap towel around their bodies, loved them! Even ended up buying more.
Another vote for the hooded baby towels.
I am a grandmother now and I can say you are right I see these new moms that buy everything, and they are not necessary. I changed my kids on the floor or the bed, couch. I used regular towels also, it is amazing how much money young women are spending on baby items. The baby doesn’t remember bath toys or baby gyms or other play things. I used cotton diapers and did the laundry every other day, My kids made it through life with no issues. I did not even use the plastic disposable diapers they are so much money and then the filling of land fills? Times have changed if they only knew the money they are spending and that they really do not need them.
I’ve never been so grateful for an advice video! Down to the “early American” concept of knowing for centuries we didn’t need all this junk! Thank you!! I’m due in January and this was a great video to help reduce the registry and know what I really need!
Agree with everything you say, with the exception of the room decor. I really think a room for a baby or young child should reflect that age group with appropriate pictures and such. Otherwise you advice is spot on. There is no need to fill a house up with baby clutter.
Currently pregnant with our 3rd child, praise God. You are absolutely spot on! lol
This was so refreshing, finally someone that is realistic. Needs vs wants. 👏 ❤
Thank you for making the life of as mom seem so simple when it comes to ‘necessities ‘. I’ve been so overwhelmed with what it is that I ‘need’ and this helped a lot.
I guess everyone is so different but you definitely learn after the first.
1) My boobs grew 5 sizes and my nursing bra felt like heaven it was also so convenient.
2) My baby bath was cheap but a lifesaver too as they loved bath time and I could sit on the floor next to them as opposed to standing at a sink or hunching over. I love the little seat in it as I was so scared to bathe my first it made me confident.
3) Beware some kids are easy not to buy toys for, others will beg and throw tantrums until they get their way. Especially with no siblings to play with.
4) My tommee tippee bin was also the best keeping the smell away, so much so I kept it for that time of the month.
4) My first daughter loved a walker and walked very early, I bought it as she never crawled.
5) Socks were a must in a very cold climate their feet were so cold in bodysuits I would put them on under a bodysuit in the day time.
6) How do you look so amazing? Concealer for my black eyebags was also a must.
Kristen you are absolutely correct regarding baby items that you do not need to buy, they just clutter up the house, toys they won’t need them for a long time. Thank you again for another great video ❤❤❤❤have a Blessed week
Best new mom advice video on UA-cam!!!
It's so nice to hear you say you dont get toys or do bath toys. Having so many extra things stresses me out, and the bath his just to get clean, not to play, they can play when they get out lol. I so relate to this!
Love watching all the videos like this makes me see what people agree and differ on. I have a big chest so nursing bras are one of the best items ever made.
I used a cloth diaper for a “burp” cloth. Pots and pans in a specific cabinet for toys😊
Even tho I do use many of the items you mentioned on a daily basis, all of them were gifted to us, i do think you find your own routine and your way to do the things you have to do. So just get what you want for your home and baby and you’ll sort it out little by little.
Baby baths are highly dependent on your bathroom space. We have a tiny sink, and a shower cabin that can fit one person at a time. Where would you bathe a baby in this setting?
My first daughter was born in 69 and Sesame St was big then. I put her in front of it twice a day and by the time she was 20 months old, she knew all her letters, capital from lower case. I didn't know! My neighbor discovered it and told me. She would say that's lower case b. So, they do learn from educational toys too.
I used the receiving blankets from the hospital as burp cloths. They work great.
I was not going to get a Boppy for my 3rd baby, as I really didn't use the one I was gifted for the first 2, but was gifted one again and have used it this time. It helpwd get her at the right level when she had trouble latching.
Totally agree on not needing a changing table.
New parents need to watch this! Thank you for sharing!!
This is an automatic save to my parenting playlist on YT. My husband and I don’t have kids yet but I am taking notes for when we do!
We have a similar mental test. Did moms have this 100+ years ago? If not, I need to justify the money, space and energy that it’ll take to maintain.
Can you do a care for baby video showing how to use the tallow. I've been curious about it
I’m happy to hear all this. My Children are Adults now & I did the same. There all pretty normal too
I nursed both of my boys and I leaked milk terribly, unfortunately especially at church, at the time my oldest was born, we had at least babies under 1 year old in the baby nursery, one Sunday morning at church a baby cried in the nursey and my milk dropped and I looked down and had LARGE wet spots in the front of my dress, fortunately a friend ran me home and I was able to change,. My mom took white flannel and cut 4 circles out of the material and she sewed the circles layered and then sewed criss cross, these were wonderful. I put them in a lingerie bag, and used them for both of my boys,,,, she also made me super soft flannel cloths to use as burper rags and baby wash cloths.... did you use cloth or disposable? our diaper pail stank too, lol
Great, common sense advice! Just think like our grandparents or great grandparents did…no need to fill the pockets of the manufacturers. You and Ivy are both so charming and adorable!
as a FTM, i second just bathing with the baby. Me and my husband have a bath for our 9 month old but we have maybe used it.... less than 10 times? ever since he was very very small either me or my hubs would get in the tub and hold the baby while the other helps to clean and rinse. We also have a tradition of singing the Darth Vader music/ imperial march at towel time and now our son just smiles when he hears the tune hahah. For what it's worth I have a disability so bathing baby in the sink or lugging the baby bath out is harder for me. Now that our son can sit independently and play etc bath time has become a lot more fun.
Honestly you can change baby any wear got car setup for it and diaper bag when on the go.
However at I pack and play set up for living and side for all his diapers lotions anything I might need. Bed I only use the changing if it poopy diaper just avoid mess that might involve changing sheets at night. Otherwise I change him on my bed or his bassinet real fast.
Just works out house each house is different to what type set up works.
Nursing pillow is good after c section at least for me it worked. Rest I agree with. Especially fancy laundry detergents, changing table, bath toys and nursery. Electric swing and playing mat is best again it may not work for others.
Such good advice and common sense, I’m a Grandma and we watch our Grandson weekly, without all the paraphernalia.
This video is awesome and I totally agree! I bathed my babies in the sink, didn't buy disgusting tubby toys, never had a gross plastic diaper genie and didn't buy all those crazy noise machines or anything. I wanted my babies to get used to noise and I could vacuum when they were sleeping and they never woke up. I know some young Moms even put a sign up not to ring the doorbell. My kids could nap anywhere, they didn't have to be in their own home. I could take them anywhere. Like you, I nursed all 4 until they ate food. Today there are so many gizmos and gadgets for babies and they are so unnecessary. I never had a boppy or nursing pillow or any of that, I used what was on the bed or sofa. We think alike, my friend. I can't wait to meet your sweet baby girl! Ivy is absolutely adorable! 💗
My babies loved their swing! Another thing to save money is cloth diapers!! My girls all broke out in rashes from disposable diapers. It’s no big deal to wash a load of diapers everyday! It will be so much fun to meet your new daughter! Prayers for all!
Great tip!
Opposite: my baby got huge rashes from the CLOTH diapers. Since they don't wick away the wetness, all that wetness stayed up against her skin. In the morning, she'd be SOAKED (including her clothes and the sheet), cold, and have a rash everywhere that the cloth had been, including up to her waist!
I had originally been going to use cloth, but quickly rejected them for disposables, and never looked back.
lol it’s not a big deal to wash a load of diapers each day. lol sure, okay.
I love Ivy's voice
My baby is going into 7w and I hate the hooded bath towel. The ones I gifted were so linty and it was sticking everywhere on him after a bath. I just bought a large beach towel and it’s absorbent, quick drying and is something he can use for a long while
Many things you mentioned were very useful to me. I quest to each his own .
Hi, I’m a mother of four and a grandmother of five and for the majority of your recommendations I agree but also every child is different and every everybody has to adapt to what works best for them. One item that was a lifesaver for me with kid number three was the baby swing. That was just a necessity for me. Also we had a single story home and I loved my changing table because it allowed me to have space underneath for storage of diapers, blankets and things. Although it wasn’t a necessity, it was some thing I used every day that was convenient and the babies room was right off the front room and main living area so that worked best for me. And I was a cloth diaper mom. I also found the sink for bathing or taking them in the shower with me worked best. Also many toys were beneficial for their development. Like wooden building blocks, shape sorters and wooden puzzles and a huge fan of Sesame Street! Playing in the yard was encouraged. We had a trampoline and a separate pool yard. But we lived in San Diego where the weather was lovely most of the time. Thank you for sharing ❤
Yes i am agreeing that we don't need the specific changing table ( it cost minimum 100€), specific little baby towel, water toys they get dirty inside and more. However you are a great lady and mom❤, very helpfull video our kids don t need all this things! Is just marketing consumism at the end. A more sostenibile earth for them🙏
the bra example you showed are def unflattering but they are sooooo comfy haha. Underwires are so painful and they are hard to pull up over your boob if it's big, but loosish fitting sports bras are def awesome for pulling up and they arent as ugly as the nursing bras lol. I can totally relate to not having all these extra things though, it's so much more to manage and once you have the baby, you are limited on time, so adding more to your plate just makes it worse. I hated asking someone to get my boppy when i would nurse, its so much easier to just grab a random pillow or stuffed animal lol. You are so right about this!
I think boppy pillows are good for people that could end up having back problems from poor posture from leaning down to nurse.
Love the honesty! Thank you! Totally agree with everything that you said! Most of these things are a money making scheme
I agree, less is definitely more where babies are concerned. I do disagree on the nursing bras though. You don't necessarily need a specialized bra but you should avoid boned bras during pregnancy and breastfeeding as they can contribute to mastitis which you absolutely do not want to get.
Good morning Kristen! Ivy is so sweet and full of personality. Have a wonderful weekend ❣
I was wearing a nursing bra and when i took my top off my husband says “what is that why are you wearing a granny bra” totally killed the mood lol i totally hear ya.
Love the honesty of this video! Omg ivy is adorable such a doll looks just like my daughter.
Watching this video while nursing my baby on a boppy pillow. I also love the white noise machine. But I appreciate other people's opinion, gives you something to think about. 😊 I do agree with the majority of what you said tho.
Loll same😆 also love the boppy for propping up baby on back or tummy time
Love hearing this perspective!
Enjoyed this video! I feel the same as you do on all these things. Ivy is such a sweetheart!! Thanks for sharing!!
I dont have kids yet but have many nieces and nephews and i appreciate this type of content this is all great advice
As a mom from the 1970's-1980, I used cloth diapers. Old fashion with pins and plastic pants! I rinsed them in the toilet and then put them in high bucket with borax. Then would just dump into washer and drain spin and send through a cycle. If I were to use disposable I would still dump large number 2 into toilet before throwing them away. Your are right less is always best.
I love your vintage decor!! Although ugly, the nursing bras were actually very comfortable and a life saver for me, plus I ditched the wire bras in total once I became pregnant!
Kristen, you are so dang correct! New Moms buy so much now days. To each their own! I didn't have the money for all that baby stuff. I bought a used crib and dresser. He slept next to me, so I left the mattress high and railing down and changed him right there with everything needed. He was born in 1972, so things were so different than now. I didn't have much of anything, but my baby grew up healthy and happy! Materialistic items don't make the child, it's easier on the Mom! Everyone is different and that's what makes the world go around! Thanks for sharing as I agree with you! 🩷🩷🩷🩷🙏
Any tips on hair color during pregnancy?
This was great information and video. My children are grown now and l had mostly everything you mentioned, and didn't even use it. A lot of money wasted.
Great advice Kristen. My kids are all grown but wish I saw this video 20 years ago.😊
Hi Kristen, I love this! You know how to successfully run a household and save money. A lot of things you mentioned I didn’t have either. Noise machines? For a baby? That’s a new one. My child never had trouble sleeping. Ivy is so adorable!! Great video!
you are right about most of these thing but I had a bathtub for my boys and I put it on the kitchen table when they were very small.
also I would change the diapers on the couch or bed or on my lap. I always gave them a bath every day and put baby oil on them when they were very small. my boys are 57 and 54 now. Barb
Trust me your room gives vintage vibes❤
Great video! I love your honesty and no- nonsense approach. Even as a grandmom, I picked up a few items, such as a bather, and these were never used.
Thank you for this video!
This is so helpful thank you!
I love that -- no toys! Agreed on the other parts as well. I did get a changing pad but no table.
Totally agree! You don't need everything
I love her, what you see is what she llives here. i like her ads here there helpful and i won't have known about them
Otherwise
I’m 32 weeks pregnant with my second and I agree with all of these except the nursing bras and baby bath haha while I agree that those bras are horrific to look at, they were very helpful with pumping at work. And the baby bath… I was just scared I was going to drop my baby while I bathed them 😅
This light lavender colored shirt/dress looks good on you!
My daughter was born in 1981, and we had a tiny place. I didn't have a changing table either. Also, there weren't any baby wipes back then, so I used damp paper towels.
Microfiber cloths are super soft. Same daughter used them on her own kids as washcloths, and to wipe Baby"s face snd hands after eating.
Use soft, new cloths that are kept separate from the ones used for cleaning.
Omgosh my 1st Daughters name is Ivy! Love it!!🩷
Thank you, I’m going to be a Mum for the first time and neither me or my partner grew up closely to anyone younger to even be familiar with what to expect. I think your advice will be really helpful!
I recently found you and I think you are great. I am having my third girl in August. 😊
Thank you!
With my third baby, we were at a friends house and I put her in their bouncer. She LOVED it - so I found on one FB marketplace for $15 and then resold for $15 when she outgrew it. I can’t recommend buying used enough! Money and space saving.
Great list. I did need a bounce chair for the baby to sit off the floor away from the pet situation but once it was outgrown it was the first item to leave. I was one of the mom’s with a reflux baby and I couldn’t wait for the day when I didn’t need 20 burp cloths. Definitely didn’t need any toys. Pantry staples and kitchenware did the trick.
Great advice ❤ I’m a mother of 6 and a grandmother of 7 and I approve this message😅
So glad!
Thankyou so much lovely. I’m due in January and have felt so overwhelmed with all the consumerism surrounding new mums. I would love to see a video on maternity wear too! God bless from New Zealand. Thankyou again x
I’ll do this soon!
My favorite toy as a 2 year old was one of those fuzzy paint rollers for painting walls 😅
My babies are in their 30s now and the items you mentioned were either not available back then, or we couldn’t afford them as I quit working when I became pregnant with my first baby. I made my own baby food (just put whatever we were eating into the blender). Co-slept with babies while nursing. Babies will learn more interacting with you than they’ll learn from playing with toys.
Awe! Ivy is getting so big! 😍