How to Choose the Best Products for the Baby Stage

Walking through the baby aisle can feel overwhelming! There are soooo many options, so many promises on the packages, and so many adorable items that you’re tempted to buy for your baby. But when it comes to choosing baby products, it’s important to think beyond the package and promises. Buying baby products while keeping a few key things in mind will set you and your baby up for success. Your baby’s development, health, safety, and even long-term value should play a role in buying gear for the baby stage.

So, let’s break down: How to Choose the Best Products for the Baby Stage, with the help of a baby expert, so you can feel confident in your purchases and get the most bang for your buck!

First, Consider Developmental Milestones

Every baby develops at their own pace, but there are general milestones that guide what products will be most useful at different stages. When choosing items, consider how they support or align with your baby’s growth:

• Newborn Stage (0-3 months): Look for items that support bonding and comfort, like a quality baby carrier (I love Solly Baby), a sound machine for better sleep (we love the Hatch), and high-contrast toys to engage their developing vision. You can find toy recommendations for this stage here.
• 3-6 Months: As your baby gains head control and starts reaching and grasping, soft teething toys, activity gyms, and tummy-time mats encourage motor skills. Additionally, things like rattle socks are super helpful for this age. Shop toy recommendations for this stage here.
• 6-12 Months: Babies start sitting, crawling, and pulling up to stand at this stage, so toys that encourage these milestones are important. This is when push toys, stackable cups, and board books can enhance development in all areas. Here are some toy recommendations for this age.
• Read this blog post for more information on choosing toys to encourage milestones.

Next, Consider Common Infant Diagnoses When Buying Products

Many babies experience common conditions that may influence your product choices. Some considerations include:

• Reflux: A baby with reflux may benefit from a more upright feeding position, so opt for an anti-colic bottle or a more upright seat that can be used after 3 months of age. 
• Eczema or Sensitive Skin: Choose fragrance-free, hypoallergenic skincare products and clothing made from organic cotton. We love this Aveeno Baby bath wash for eczema-prone skin!
• Sleep Difficulties: Sleep is so important in the baby stage, and gear that supports sleep is essential at home & on-the-go!
• Feeding Difficulties: Babies with feeding challenges may benefit from specific bottles or a lactation consultant-approved pacifier.
• Flat Head Syndrome: 50% of babies have some sort of flattening on their head. To avoid the risk of “flat head,” consider upright seats and strollers with a bassinet feature. Check out this free guide for more "flat head" information.

Being aware of these common diagnoses and concerns among parents can help you choose products that support your baby’s comfort and well-being.

Next, Choose Products with Longevity & Versatility

Instead of buying single-purpose products, look for items that grow with your baby or serve multiple functions:

• Convertible Car Seats: Instead of an infant-only seat, opt for one that transitions from rear-facing to forward-facing and then into a booster.
• Adjustable High Chairs: A high chair that converts into a toddler chair means fewer purchases down the road. Plus, a supportive feeding seat is important in infancy and beyond.
• Multi-Use Play Mats & Gyms: A soft play mat with removable toys can be used from tummy time through toddlerhood.
• Shop some of our favorite toys to grow here.

Also, Consider Eco-Friendly & Safe Items

Many baby products contain plastics, dyes, and chemicals that may not be the safest for our babies or our environment. To make more sustainable choices, consider:

• Opting for Natural Materials: Wooden toys, organic cotton clothes and mats, and glass baby bottles are better alternatives to plastic-heavy items. 
• Checking for Non-Toxic Certifications: Look for labels like OEKO-TEX, GREENGUARD, and BPA-free to ensure products meet safety standards.
• Choosing Minimalist Packaging: Brands that focus on eco-friendly packaging reduce waste and support sustainability efforts.
• Donating and Reusing Items When Possible: Reusing items like bottles and toys with other kids is a great way to be resourceful. Then, once your kids are older, you can pass these items along to others.

Lastly, Seek Advice from Pediatricians & Baby Development Experts

While online reviews and social media can provide insight, professional recommendations carry more weight. Pediatricians, occupational therapists, lactation consultants, and other baby professionals often have product suggestions based on research and hands-on experience. When in doubt:

• Ask your pediatrician about safe sleep surfaces, car seats, and baby care products.
• Consult a lactation consultant for recommendations on feeding tools and products.
• Check guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) for safety standards on gear like walkers, swings, and babywearing products.
• Check the recommendations inside this free course, What to Expect Birth & Beyond, to support growth and development in all areas.

Choosing the right baby products doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By focusing on developmental benefits, longevity, safety, and expert recommendations, you can make smart purchases that support your baby’s growth, from birth and beyond because this criteria can also be helpful when shopping for toddlers and older kids. Whether it’s a high-quality car seat, or a simple yet effective play gym for your baby, each choice should add value to your parenting journey while keeping your little one happy and healthy.