Baby #2 humbled me. I thought I knew exactly what I’d need after my first—but the second time around was a whole new game.
These are the real, sanity-saving items (and genius hacks) I reached for every single day with our newborn and a busy toddler.
1. A Baby Carrier You’ll Actually Wear
I barely used a carrier with my first, but with two kids it became non-negotiable.
School runs, cooking dinner, chasing a toddler—having both hands free while baby stays cozy against you is everything.
2. Safe Spots in Every Room
Think: bouncer, activity jumper, travel crib.
Having a secure “container” in each main room meant I could set the baby down while helping my toddler or grabbing laundry without worry.
3. Longer Sleep Stretch Duo
- Magnesium lotion on baby’s feet before bedtime
- Nighttime diaper booster pads to keep baby dry overnight
This combo consistently gave us longer stretches of sleep—game changer.
4. Steam Showers Over a Humidifier
With a toddler in daycare, we caught every cold imaginable.
Ten minutes sitting in a steamy bathroom cleared congestion better than any fancy humidifier.
5. Portable Red-Light Night Light
Middle-of-the-night feeds are easier with a rechargeable, color-changing night light.
Set it to red to keep everyone calm and sleepy.
6. Tummy Helpers
• Gripe water for gassy, hiccupy evenings
• Infant probiotic drops (okayed by your pediatrician) to support gut health and reduce fussiness
7. Treasure Box for the Big Sibling
A small bin of special toys or activities that only comes out during feedings or diaper changes.
This helped my toddler feel included and gave us a “special time” while I cared for the baby.
8. Double-Sheet Hack
Layer the crib: sheet → waterproof liner → sheet.
Middle-of-the-night blowout? Peel off the top layer and everyone’s back to sleep in minutes.
9. Things I Skipped This Time
Bottle warmer, wipe warmer, long-sleeve BLW bibs, fancy outfits (hello zip sleepers), and new toys—we already had plenty.
Also skipped the pricey humidifier; steam showers worked far better.
Why These Staples Matter
Every baby and every season of motherhood is different.
Even if you “know what to expect,” the tools that worked for Baby #1 may not work for Baby #2.
Use what helps, skip what doesn’t, and don’t apologize for making life easier.
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