Momma In The Mitten

Building your baby registry can feel like running a marathon — there are so many products, and everyone from your best friend to your neighbor has strong opinions on what you “really need.” It’s overwhelming, and it’s easy to get caught up in the cute stuff: tiny clothes, stuffed animals, or Pinterest-perfect nursery décor.

But here’s the truth: the gifts that actually make a difference are the practical baby shower must-haves. These are the items new parents reach for daily — the things that quietly save your sanity when nothing else seems to work.

In Part 1 of this series, I shared some of my unpopular mom must-haves. Today, we’re focusing on baby gear specifically for the little one. If you’re creating a baby registry or shopping for a shower gift, these five items are true game changers.

1. Bassinet on Wheels

Most parents put a bassinet on their registry. But here’s the insider tip: get one with wheels.

Why? Because mobility matters. In those early weeks, being able to roll your baby from the bedroom to the living room (or even just closer to your bed in the middle of the night) saves so much effort. During the day, you can keep baby near while you fold laundry or relax on the couch. At night, you can slide the bassinet closer without fully getting out of bed.

Imagine this: You’ve finally dozed off, and baby stirs. Instead of getting up, walking across the room, and breaking the moment of calm, you simply wheel the bassinet closer, soothe them, and everyone goes back to sleep.

Why it’s a must-have: Everyone registers for a bassinet, but most don’t think about mobility until it’s too late. If you’re recovering from a C-section or just exhausted (and let’s be honest, that’s all of us), the ability to roll instead of lift is a lifesaver.

2. Dream Egg Sound Machine

Newborns don’t come with an off switch, but white noise comes close. The Dream Egg sound machine is a small, plug-in device that creates a consistent sleep environment. Unlike apps or speakers that glow or light up, this one is subtle and made specifically for baby sleep.

It’s not technically portable (it has to stay plugged into the wall), but it’s compact enough to keep on a nightstand, dresser, or tucked on a shelf. Once you start using it, your baby will quickly associate the sound with sleep, which means fewer battles at naptime and more restful nights.

Picture this: Your baby is down for a nap, the dog barks, Amazon drops off a package, and your toddler is running laps around the house. With white noise, your newborn sleeps right through it.

Why it’s a must-have: It helps block out household chaos and gives babies a sleep cue they can rely on. And trust me — if baby sleeps, everyone sleeps.

3. Boba Wrap

Babywearing is the kind of thing you don’t know you’ll love until you try it. The Boba wrap is a simple, stretchy piece of fabric that keeps your baby snug against you while leaving your hands free.

Newborns crave closeness, and sometimes the only way they’ll nap is on you. With a wrap, you don’t have to choose between comforting your baby and getting something done. Need to make a sandwich, send an email, or just walk around the house without holding a crying infant? The Boba is your answer.

A lot of parents feel intimidated by wraps, but the Boba is beginner-friendly. After a few tries, tying it becomes second nature. And unlike bulkier carriers, the soft fabric is gentle and cozy for tiny newborns.

Why it’s a must-have: The wrap isn’t just convenient — it’s calming. Babies often fall asleep faster when worn, and parents love the bonding time. Plus, it’s a lifesaver for those endless “witching hour” evenings when nothing else works.

4. Baby’s Brew Portable Bottle Warmer

Outings with a newborn are stressful enough — add in a hungry baby and a cold bottle, and it’s chaos. That’s why the Baby’s Brew portable bottle warmer is one of the smartest registry additions.

This rechargeable warmer heats bottles to the perfect temperature, no hot water or microwaves required. Whether you’re at the park, on a road trip, or running errands, you can warm a bottle quickly and safely.

Imagine this: You’re sitting in the backseat of the car, your baby is crying, and you realize you forgot to ask the coffee shop for a cup of hot water. Instead of panicking, you pull out the Baby’s Brew, press a button, and have a perfectly warmed bottle in minutes. Stress avoided.

Why it’s a must-have: People don’t think about bottle warming until they’re away from home. This tool gives you peace of mind and makes leaving the house with a newborn far less intimidating.

5. Jogging Stroller

Here’s the thing: jogging strollers aren’t just for runners. They’re for any parent who plans to spend time outdoors.

The bigger wheels and sturdy frame make them easier to push on uneven sidewalks, grass, gravel, or trails. They’re smoother, sturdier, and more comfortable for both baby and parent. And unlike some traditional strollers that feel flimsy, a good jogging stroller can last through toddlerhood and beyond.

Even if you don’t plan to jog, you’ll love having a stroller that can handle your daily walks, farmer’s market trips, or family outings without feeling like a struggle.

Why it’s a must-have: It grows with your child, it’s versatile, and it makes being outside enjoyable instead of frustrating. For many families, the jogging stroller becomes the stroller they actually use.

Final Thoughts

Baby shower shopping doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Yes, the tiny clothes and toys are fun, but the best baby shower gifts are the ones that make everyday life easier for new parents.

From a bassinet on wheels that saves your back, to a sound machine that helps everyone sleep, to the wrap and stroller that keep baby close while giving you freedom — these are the items parents actually use. They may not be the flashiest gifts at the shower, but they’re the ones that end up being unforgettable.

If you’re working on your registry, add these to your list. If you’re shopping for a mom-to-be, consider gifting one. Because the best gifts aren’t always the cutest — they’re the ones that help new parents breathe a little easier.

💡 Missed the first part of this series? Check out Part 1: Unpopular Mom Must-Haves for even more registry-worthy ideas.