Entering parenthood is like stepping onto a rollercoaster of chaos, especially for those of us who might be a bit queasy at the thought of certain “gross” moments. I wouldn’t say I’m overly squeamish (believe me, I could share some pretty wild stories from my early days of parenting – most of which involve the dreaded diaper blowout). However, like many parents, I’ve had my fair share of cringe-worthy experiences, be it an unyielding booger lodged in my child’s nose or an overly friendly stranger trying to pet my newborn in the grocery store. If you can relate, don’t worry! I’ve compiled a list of must-have baby items that will help you maintain a semblance of cleanliness and sanity amidst the delightful mess that is raising a baby.
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Naväge Baby Nose Aspirator
Babies don’t come equipped with the ability to blow their noses, making this aspirator a game-changer for those who shudder at the thought of manual nose-cleaning. Designed by a certified ENT, it features lights and calming music to soothe your little one during the process. You can check it out on the Naväge site, Walmart, or Amazon. -
Diaper Genie Platinum Pail
This ingenious pail is equipped with a foot pedal for hands-free diaper disposal, making it easy to manage while holding a squirming baby. With the capacity for up to 47 newborn diapers and odor-locking features, it’s a lifesaver. Find it here. -
Bumco Baby Bum Brush
Say goodbye to messy diaper cream applications! This silicone brush allows you to apply ointment evenly without the mess. Plus, it stands upright thanks to its suction cup base. You can find it here. -
DermaFrida The FlakeFixer
While cradle cap isn’t necessarily gross, it can be frustrating. This handy tool helps you gently remove flakes from your baby’s scalp without excessive scrubbing, bringing a little relief to your parenting woes. Available here. -
Disposable Change Pads
These are lifesavers for those explosive diaper situations where you want to minimize cleanup. Many come with biodegradable options, which are great for the environment too. You can find them here. -
Pregnant Chicken “Do Not Touch” Baby Sign
Keep overly enthusiastic strangers at bay with these signs that can be attached to strollers and car seats. They come in various funny phrases and help maintain a bubble of hygiene around your baby. Check them out in my store or on Etsy. -
Mold-Free Bath Toys
Don’t let bath time be ruined by moldy toys! Choose innovative designs that prevent water retention, ensuring your little one stays safe and clean. You can find them here. -
Mess-Proof Bibs
When introducing solids, a good bib is essential. These bibs help keep clothes clean and manage the mess, so you only have to deal with “heads and hands.” Available here. -
Bumkins Baby Splat Mat
Perfect for catching spills, this mat is easy to clean and saves you from scrubbing the floor after every meal. You can find it here. -
Lil Helper Lifesaver Waterproof Mats
These mats are soft, protective, and perfect for diaper changes, playtime, or mealtime. They’re washable and reusable, making them a great investment for years to come. You can find them here. -
Microwave Steam Sterilizer Bags
Transform your microwave into a sterilization station! These bags are easy to use and can be reused multiple times, making them a convenient addition to your baby gear. Find them here. -
Frida Baby 3-in-1 Nose, Nail + Ear Picker
This handy tool helps you tackle those tricky spots that are hard to reach with your fingers. It’s a must-have for any squeamish parent! Available here. -
Boon Drizzle
If you dread sticky situations, this product captures drips and messes, keeping your toddler (and your surroundings) cleaner during snack time. You can find it here.
Parenthood Is Messy
Let’s face it: there’s no escaping the messiness of raising little ones. Whether you’re figuring out how to cope with “gross” parenting moments or equipping yourself with the right tools, these products are a solid starting point. Remember, we all end up sharing the odd snack from the floor, so don’t stress too much about the mess!
What would you add to this list? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!