2026 Ultimate Baby Guide - Newtown Moms

Local Moms Network

Ultimate Baby Guide

Your Guide to Baby Must-Haves for Modern Moms

Whether you’re a new mom, adding to your family or helping a mom friend out with her registry, the Local Moms Network Baby Guide is here to help. This trustworthy resource isn’t just random; it’s full of tried-and-true products our 100+ nationwide moms have used and recommended. 

Originally created & launched as one mom’s must-have research nearly a decade ago by Asya Geller of Greenwich Moms, while also navigating being a first-time mom herself, has now evolved over the years into an even better, more curated guide.  Now refreshed with new finds, updated favorites and recommendations we genuinely love. We’re so excited to share our latest version. Pass it along to every mom-to-be, new mom or registry building friend in your life.

Diapering

Coterie Diapers

“These are so worth the money! The moisture is not sitting on your baby’s skin. I was absolutely blown away by these diapers and will be purchasing again!” – Jessy of Milford Moms

“I also love the Coterie swim diapers, which actually do not leak!” – Sophie, Director of Development, The Local Moms Network

Use code 20LOCALMOMS for 20% off first order (new customers, orders over $60).

Hello Bello Wipes

“They are not soaking wet, and leave my baby clean. They are also fragrance-free.” – Jennifer, Union County Moms

Ubbi Diaper Pail

“I love this diaper pail because you can choose between using their bags or any garbage bags. The diaper pail locks easily and is stainless steel so easy to clean to keep the smell out.” – Katherine, Sayville-Patchogue Moms

Additional Diapering, Wipes & More

Amazon Brand Bag Refills
“Cheaper than the name brand, and they work just as well!” – Sophie

Aquaphor Diaper Rash Cream
“Aquaphor is my go to for everything, and I was so happy to find they made a diaper rash cream. It works fast and soothes my baby’s butt.” – Jennifer

Coterie Wipes

Desitin Diaper Rash Cream
“This formula has been a cult favorite since we were babies for a reason—it really works.” – Amy, Editor of The Local Moms Network

Keekaroo Peanut Changer
The Keekaroo is gold. No covers, no laundry. Just wipe and go. Which, let’s be honest, is a dream if you’re dealing with early morning blow outs. It’s sturdy, and the peanut shape basically cradles the baby in place.” – Lindsey

“Another vote for Keekaroo!” – Jessy

Munchkin Changing Pad Liners
“I will buy these for every new mom from now until forever. Throw one of these down on the changing pad for quick and easy cleanup. No one wants to take off the cute changing pad sheet every time there’s a pee accident!” – Kasey, Columbus Moms 

Ubbi Ubbi Plastic Bags

Water Wipes
“These wipes are gentle on my daughter’s sensitive skin, and you can find them almost anywhere.” – Sophie

Nursing and Bottles

Ceres Milk Chiller

“Great for pumping on the go, and perfect for working moms.” – Sophie

Use code LOCALMOM15 for 15% off!

Willow Go Wearable Pump

“When pumping at work or pumping on the go this breast pump made it easy. I was able to sit in my office and pump with truly no one knowing. I like being able to fill the Willow cups then pouring them into a mason jar to lower the use of some many parts and bags.” – Katherine

Hint: Check with your health insurance provider for information on free pumps!

Baby Breeza Bottle Washer Pro

“This saved my sanity—no more hand washing bottles after the baby got home from daycare. I am able to pop four bottles and all their parts in and they are washed and sanitized ready for the next day.” – Jennifer

Additional Nursing & Bottles

Aden & Anais Burp Cloths & Bibs
“Softer than soft, these versatile cloths can be used as washcloths when your kids are older.” – Amy

Bebe Au Lait Nursing Cover 
“This was the most comfortable and functional nursing cover I used. The “Rig flex” open neckline allowed me to see my daughter and maintain privacy, and the cotton fabric kept us both cool and comfortable.” – Sophie 

Bottles
Bottles are often a case of trial and error. My babies ended up liking, Dr. Brown’s, Evenflo and Comotomo, but my advice is to order one of a few different types and see what your baby likes best.” –  Amy

Boon Drying Grass 
“This fits on my counter nicely without taking up too much space. It’s easy to clean and keeps everything organized.” – Katherine

Boppy Nursing Pillow
“I breastfed two babies with my Boppy nursing pillow and would not have survived the early days without it.” – Sophie

Lansinoh Breastmilk Storage Bags
“When you’re spending all that time and energy pumping, you want that milk to be safe! These storage bags were durable and held up against the freezer.” – Sophie

OXO Space Saving Drying Rack
“This upright version comes in a beige color and stands against the wall to take up less counter space.” – Amanda, North Dallas Moms

Spectra S1 or S2
“My Spectra pump was always my go to, since I got the most milk using this pump. It’s easy to use and the parts are easily replaceable.” – Amanda

Replacement Spectra Parts
“When using your pump often, it’s important to regularly replace the plastic pump parts so they don’t get worn out, and keep working efficiently. I didn’t know this with my first child and got clogged ducts all the time.” – Sophie

Sleeping

Hatch

“We loooooove Hatch. We used it for 7 years and purchased more for consecutive kids. We love that we have app control, so after a night of being sick or if Mom wants to sleep in, etc., we can adjust it from our phone in the app.” – Amanda

SNOO

“Love that they’re now more affordable because you can buy them pre-loved or rent one!” – Amy

Kyte Baby Sleep Sacks

“While they are on the pricier side of a sleep sack, they last. I have used them for all three of my kids and they are still as soft as the first day we got them. They are also long and sized to last, 0-6 months, 6-18 months, and 18-36 months, so you won’t be constantly buying new ones.” – Jennifer

Additional Sleeping

Halo Bassinet
“This bassinet was no nonsense, easy to set up and clean, and for the short time our babies were in our room with us it did the trick!” – Sophie

Infant Optics Monitor
“This is the best of the ‘simpler’ monitors I’ve used, for home and travel. The range is good for a non-WiFi monitor and our monitor has lasted over five years.” – Sophie

Nanit
“This popular baby monitor is known for its high-def video and solid customer service.” – Amy

Newton Mattress
“Gives me such piece of mind that it’s breathable if baby puts his face into the mattress, but it’s also really great to clean with so many illnesses. You can even rinse the inner mattress itself in the shower!” – Jessy

Taking Cara Babies B.E.S.T Swaddle
“After 4 babies I have finally found THE ONE! it has a double wrap to make it impossible for baby to escape. It has special magnets for closure so there is no loud sound when putting on or taking off .” – Lauren

Yogasleep Dohm
“This sound machine adjusts so easily to make it softer or louder depending on what you need. It gives off gentle  white noise without the constant need to stimulate with music.” – Katherine

Yogasleep Portable Sound Machine
“When your baby inevitably needs to nap on the go, this is a life saver to block out outside sounds and extend the nap. Also great for travel.” – Sophie

 

Travel

Bugaboo Donkey Stroller

“I love being able to switch between double and single so easily. Plus having a side basket when in a single stroller makes shopping and trips easier. The seats are able to face out or face mom which is great for the little ones.” -Katherine

Dange Dover Diaper Backpack

“This utilitarian yet stylish carryall comes with a portable changing pad and tons of pockets to stay organized.” – Layla

Use code LOCALMOMS2026 for 20% off FULL-Priced items valid until 7/31

Tushbaby Pearl Wrap Carrier

“The lightweight fabric is perfect for warm days, breathable enough that neither me or baby boy ends up feeling overheated and surprisingly supportive. Plus, the space for my water bottle and keys was so nice.” – Linzy, Kingwood Moms

Additional Travel

Amazon Backpack
 “Great no-nonsense, affordable option.” – Sophie

Artipoppe Carrier
“A friend let me borrow this carrier! For my first, I tried at least five different carriers and was unable to tolerate it due to upper back pain. This is a high price point but wow has it been a game changer with juggling two young kids…no back pain here! – Jessy

“Another vote for Artipoppe!” –  Lindsey, New Canaan/Darien Moms

Doona Stroller
It goes from car seat to stroller in seconds which is super helpful when I’m doing drop off with big sis or running errands solo. No dragging around a heavy carseat or having to wake up a sleeping baby makes my life so much easier.” – Lindsey

Ergo Baby 360
“I absolutely love how supported I feel my back and baby are when I wear this carrier. Perfect for taking older sister to the park when I need to be hands free.” – Amanda

Mountain Buggy Nano Travel Stroller
“This travel stroller is sturdy, folds up very easily and compact, and is comfortable for older babies.” – Sophie

Quest Beach Wagon
“An affordable option that actually works on the sand.” – Sophie

RYOBI Fan
“My go to advice for new parents is to skip the typical stroller fans and get one of these. It clips right to the stroller, the battery lasts so much longer, and the fan itself is so much stronger to keep baby cool during the hot summer.” –  Jennifer

SlumberPod
“This breathable tent goes over your travel crib to make it completely dark. This has been a game changer for traveling – both baby and parents sleep better!” – Sophie

“Hands-down the only thing I would buy over and over again for travel.  So convenient when having to share a hotel room with our older kids.” – Amber

Solly Baby Wrap
“My favorite with both my babies. Comfortable and easy to take on the go! Keeps baby close and snug while out and about or even around the house.” – Annie, Austin Moms

Tote organizer
“Keeps me organized and helps me find things easily – also helpful to make any bag a diaper bag.” – Sophie

Uppababy – Vista, Cruz, or Minu
“We used our Vista every day for years and it held up really well. Our babies and toddlers were comfortable, and it was easy to navigate through the streets of Manhattan. The Vista can become a double stroller, you can fit a ton in the bottom storage basket, and it’s very easy to collapse and set up. Uppababy is also known for their great customer service.” – Sophie

Uppababy Stroller Travel Bag
“If you have an Uppababy travel bag and your stroller gets damaged in air transit they will either fix or send you a new stroller free of charge.” – Sophie (Read more on this policy here.)

“We chose the Uppababy Mesa car seat, too. It clips in easily to the Uppababy stroller, can clip into the base or you can use the seatbelt (easy to move from car to car).” – Sophie

Wonderfold Wagon W4
“A lifesaver when it comes to multiple kids. Absolutely easy to push, even with it loaded with kids and luggage toted around! Enough space for the kids, their stuff, and mine as well.” – Katherine

Zoe Double Stroller
“Lightweight and great for moving kids that were 18 months apart quickly, however, I did not like it for uneven sidewalks or terrain. Perfect for shopping and indoor walks.” – Amanda

Clothing

Primary PJs

“These are the best pjs and 100% organic cotton! They are perfectly snug on your baby and come in both footed and open toe options.” – Lauren, Baltimore County Moms 

“Another vote for Primary!” – Kasey, Columbus Moms 

Hanna Andersson

“Their rashguards and bright swim suits are perfect for summer!” – Amber

“The quality is great and they always have sales and have more options.” – Sophie

Magnetic Me Sleepers

“You can’t beat the easy closure on these sleepers! Especially in the middle of the night when you are exhausted. And as an added bonus, they are so soft!” – Jessy

Additional Clothing

Basically Soho
Use code LOCALMOMS20 for 20% off your order!

Little Sleepies
“Absolutely love their soft bamboo pjs. From newborn to toddler to mom everyone loves the feel. Plus, they keep everyone warm without overheating or even sweating.” – Katherine

Zara Clothes
“Zara clothes are my absolutely favorite. Their great oversized colorful and graphic tees along with their sweatshirts are my fav and I snack up each year! Can be used unisex as well!” – Jessy

Feeding

Stokke Tripp Trapp Highchair

“I love that this chair pulls right up to the table so the baby can be with us. The adjustable seat and footrest are a great feature for baby-led weaning. The side screws need to be loosened to adjust these parts, but the ability to move them as my kids grow is a great long term feature.” – Katherine

EZPZ Mealtime Dishes

“The EZPZ bowls and plates are great because they stick to table/tray so baby can’t throw it, which is way more necessary than I thought it would be.” – Sophie

Inglesina Table Chair

 “If you have a small space, are traveling or just want your baby to be “at the table” with you, this chair is an easy win.” – Amy

Additional Feeding (Solids)

Austin Baby Co
“These silicone snack and lunch boxes are made by a mom of two. They don’t leak, are dishwasher safe and last forever!” – Kasey

Baby Food Mill
“Low-tech option for mashing foods for baby. It’s great if you’re not going to make most of your baby food but like having the option.” – Sophie

Baby Food Containers
“When making baby food, it’s useful to have containers to portion out their food. These are glass, easy to clean, and come with a dry erase marker to mark what it is and the date made.” – Sophie

Ingenuity 2-in-1 Feeding Chair and Booster
“We use this as a travel chair. Baby loves it, it’s easy to clean, super lightweight. Small profile. Excellent price point.” – Amanda

NumNum Starter Spoons
“Great for letting babies self feed early on.” – Sophie

Wee Sprout Plates, Cups, Bowls, and Utensils
“They are made of silicone and super suctions to any surface. They are also dishwasher safe which is an added bonus.” – Jennifer

Bathing

Anglecare Baby Bath

“I love how easy this bathtub is to use and clean.  It can also be flipped over when your baby is sitting on their own for double the use!” – Amber, Charleston Moms

Lalo Bathtime Set

“Super functional, easy to clean and use with your baby!  Also love the knee pad for comfort!” – Amber 

Tubby Todd Baby Bundle

“This is the only thing that works on my sensitive skin baby! It helps her eczema and soothes her super dry skin in the winter.” – Sophie

Additional Bathing

Pipette Lotion
“Hands down the best lightweight lotion for extra-sensitive skin.” – Layla, CEO of the Local Moms Network

Play

Lovevery Play Gym

“I had this play mat with my daughter (7 years ago) and it’s only gotten better with time. I love how it grows with a baby; from tummy time to batting toys, to exploring colors and textures. All while looking pretty in your living room. It’s not over stimulating and I’ve used it every single day.” – Lindsey

Baby Bjorn Bouncer

“Sometimes a baby container is necessary, and before baby can move around this a great option to keep her busy and safe.” – Sophie

Wee Gallery Art Cards

“Baby-friendly, easy to play with, and keeps them entertained!” – Amber

Additional Play

Tum Tum Wedge
“Not only is this perfect for tummy time and propped up play, but also as a support for side-lying play activities. My first child wore a helmet, and Tum Tum supported her through tummy time and helped to keep her head and neck strength improving with the helmet.” – Katherine

Health and Wellness

Electric Baby Nail Trimmer

“Cutting baby nails is terrifying, especially when they’re so wiggly. This file is super easy to use and actually works.” – Sophie

Firstgrin Introductory Dental Care Kit

“As a previous dental assistant, oral care is extremely important to me. This kit has made me feel confident and comfortable with baby teeth. The tips from Firstgrin’s app have been crucial in maintaining my daughters’ oral hygiene. Even with my oldest being autistic, the kit provides the tools I need to understand their oral hygiene.” – Katherine

Braun ThermoScan Thermometer

“This digital thermometer that you use on the ear is fast, easy to use and my little ones rarely put up a fight.” – Sophie

Additional Health & Wellness

Blue Lizard Sunscreen
“This baby sunscreen is easy to rub in, fragrance-free and has a smart bottle that turns pink when the UV index requires sunscreen.” – Amy

Carepod Humidifier
“My son is constantly sick since he attends daycare. A humidifier is constantly on in his room. The last thing I need to worry about is constantly scrubbing the humidifier. The carepod can be put in the dishwasher!” – Jessy

Dreft Detergent
“My pediatrician recommended this for the newborn stage with my first and it’s great. But once I had my second I moved on to our usual free and clear detergent for all.” – Amy

Earthley
“Clean, effective, natural alternatives – they have something for everyone. Eczema, upset tummies, postpartum, and so much more”. – Kasey

Hello Bello Sunstick
“It smells great, it is a mineral sunscreen, and most importantly it is easy to apply to a squirmy baby.” – Jennifer

Pipette Sunscreen

For Mom

The Pod by Eight Sleep

“This smart mattress cover will change the way you sleep. Whether you sleep hot, cold or somewhere in between, it magically adjusts. I’m falling sleep faster and staying asleep longer.” – Layla

Use code LOCALMOMS at eightsleep.com/localmoms for up to $350 off the Pod 5 Ultra.

Kindred Bravely Nursing/Pumping Bras

“I can’t believe it took me four babies to discover these bras! They are so comfortable and easy to use for pumping. Make sure you buy 2. You’ll need an extra while washing the first!” – Lauren

“Another vote for Kindred. I’ve been wearing them for almost a year now while nursing!” –  Lindsey

Lansinoh Breast Therapy Packs - Hot & Cold

“These are helpful when your milk is first coming in and regulating. They also soothe clogged ducts. I also recommend their breast pads.” – Sophie

Additional For Mom

Frida Mom Peri Bottle
“Easier to use than what they give you at the hospital.” – Sophie

Hb Select Nursing Bra
“Found these on Amazon, and lived in them postpartum and beyond. I actually still wear them, even though I am not breastfeeding anymore. They are so soft and comfy.” – Jennifer

Lansinoh Breast Pads
“Comfortable, affordable, and work great!” – Sophie

Silverette Nipple Covers
“I love that I don’t need to use cream after every feed. These keep the nipple area hydrated and helps soothe pain and soreness. They were wonderful for healing along with being comfortable to wear. It was a game changer to not have my sore areas rubbing directly onto my clothing between feeding sessions.” – Katherine

This Guide contains Sponsored Content

Join The Newtown Moms Community

Stay up-to-date with what is happening in-and-around the Newtown, CT Moms community with local events, community highlights, and exclusive deals.