Meet the winners of the 2024 Best of BabyCenter Awards

A restful night’s sleep is important during pregnancy, but it’s not always easy to achieve. For many moms-to-be, a pregnancy pillow can help relieve some of the aches and pains that keep them up at night. BabyCenter moms swear by the Momcozy U-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow to do just that.

The pillow is stuffed with a long silk cotton blend that has just the right amount of give. Moms-to-be appreciate that you can remove, add, or move around the pillow’s filling to get the support you need. Not to mention, the velvet cover provides comfort at night without causing nighttime sweats. (That said, if you do run hot, the Momcozy pregnancy pillow is also available with a special cooling coverOpens a new window.) 

The pillow’s U-shaped design not only supports your neck, back, and hips but also keeps you in the side-sleep position that doctors deem safest for pregnancy. One mom even likened the pillow to a “big hug” for the all-over support and comfort it provides. And if that’s not a selling point, we don’t know what is.

What the voters say

“The different lengths provide more flexibility than those that are uniform in length on both sides. Also, fabric cover looks extra soft.”

“It's the most comfortable”

“[It] Keeps you comfortably in proper position”

“This pillow allowed me to get as much sleep as possible while pregnant.  Its wrap-around design is especially helpful if you like to turn a lot like me since it had me covered on all sides.”

As your bump grows, you’ll likely want comfortable and stylish maternity clothes. Old Navy’s maternity lineOpens a new window checks all those boxes. Moms-to-be praise Old Navy for offering a wide range of maternity clothes — leggingsOpens a new window, dressesOpens a new window, and even denim overalls Opens a new window— that are made from quality materials. Every item has plenty of stretch to grow with you throughout pregnancy but won’t be stretched out to the point that you can’t wear them postpartum.

Although the quality of the clothes may feel high-end, the price is not. You don’t need a whole new maternity wardrobe, but with prices this low, you could buy one.

What the voters say: 

“It’s affordable and cute!”

“They were comfy and stretchy. I still wear my maternity clothing now postpartum.”

Installing your child’s car seat is a crucial parenting safety task, and it can be a stressful one, with lots of physical effort and worrisome guesswork. However, the Graco SnugFit 35 DLX Infant Car SeatOpens a new window’s intuitive and high-quality installation features make the process much less demanding. The car seat uses SnugLock technology, which allows you to install it using either the vehicle seat belt or the LATCH-tightening strap. It only requires a few gentle tugs to get the seat’s base snug and secure. The car seat also utilizes Click Connect technology, so you literally hear a "click" when your infant's car seat is correctly installed on the base.

All this security might seem like it should come with a high price tag, but at $230, it’s relatively less expensive than other top-rated infant car seats on the market. It’s also compatible with Graco strollers, so you can use it as a travel system.

What the voters say:

“Easy adjust straps, great head support.”

“For an infant seat we got a Graco SnugRide SnugFit 35 DLX Infant Car Seat because it snaps into their stroller (Graco FastAction Jogger LX Stroller) and was reasonably priced at Target."

“We got this one! Pretty light, easy to install!”

Convertible car seats have the flexibility to work from the birth to the big-kid stage, making it a solid investment. The go-to for BabyCenter parents: the Graco 4Ever DLX 4-in-1 Car SeatOpens a new window. The car seat is lightweight, making it easier to maneuver and reconfigure when it’s time to go from rear- to forward-facing to booster seat. 

Parents also appreciate that the straps are very easy to adjust, and that the lining is removable for easy cleaning. (Trust us, that feature matters!) 

But most of all, it’s extremely comfortable for your child thanks to a slew of small but impactful features: Super soft materials, adjustable headrest, and six recline positions. It’s truly worth every penny, though at $299 it’s one of the most affordable convertible car seats. 

What the voters say:

“Not too bulky, easy install, fits in shorter backseat.”

“Graco 4Ever is great. I had a bad car accident back in January this year and my son was with me. The impact made my car spin 180 degrees. My car was totaled. They had to cut the doors open in order to get us out of the car. I had a broken arm and thumb. Thankfully, my son was okay with no injuries.”

A hospital-grade breast pump that’s ultra-lightweight sounds too good to be true, but the Spectra S2 PlusOpens a new window breast pump really lives up to the hype. Hailed as the Best Breast Pump by BabyCenter editors, this pump is quiet, lightweight, and truly powerful. Moms love how easily they can adjust the settings to achieve their preferred intensity and speed levels, and it can be used as a single or double pump. For late-night pumping sessions, the nightlight allows you to see what you’re doing without waking up your baby or partner.

Cleaning is a breeze too, particularly because of the closed system. This prevents milk from leaking into the pump mechanism, so you only need to focus on cleaning the bottles and flanges.

What the voters say:

“Works extremely well and is hospital grade”

"I love it. The closed system is great. All you have to clean is the bottles and flanges. It's very gentle yet effective and very customizable. You can change settings for suction and speed and it has different modes for inducing letdown and for the rest of the pumping session."

"I have the Spectra S2 and LOVE it. I don't have experience with any other pumps but I have 0 complaints about this one and it came highly recommended by the LCs and nurses when baby was born."

If you’re looking for a powerful pump that you can use without being tethered to a wall, BabyCenter moms swear by the Momcozy S12 ProOpens a new window. Many say they get the same output with the Momcozy S12 Pro as they do with electric pumps, and that’s likely due to the customization: With three expression modes and nine intensity levels, you can easily adjust the “sucking” rhythm to mimic that of your baby, which in turn helps with milk production. This feature, along with the double-sealed flange design, also enhances comfort by getting your pump even closer to your breast, maximizing comfort and preventing milk leakage.

The Momcozy S12 Pro may lack some of the bells and whistles of other, more expensive wearable pumps, but those extras aren’t necessary with this powerful and comfortable pump.

What the voters say:

“I used the Momcozy S12 Pro for almost a full year and loved it! I’ll be using it again this time around. There’s no way I could have managed without it.”

“I have the momcozy s12 pro and I’m obsessed with it! The suction is amazing and it’s easy to transfer the milk from the pump to a bottle or storage bag. I started out with a stationary pump but haven’t used it since I bought the momcozy! It’s perfect and allows me to get other things done while pumping.”

“I got the Elvie through insurance but find the Momcozy to be just as effective for a fraction of the price. Elvie is quieter and slimmer though - I don’t wear the Momcozy out of the house unless I’m in the car (usually riding, not driving).”

Motherhood Maternity has become well-known for its quality, affordable maternity clothes, but the brand also makes amazing nursing brasOpens a new window. Over the years, moms have flooded the BabyCenter Community with praise for the various options, but none have received more rave reviews than the Motherhood Maternity Seamless Clip Down Nursing BraOpens a new window. Moms love the clip-down cups, which allow you to access your breasts with one hand while holding your baby in the other arm.

Made of a stretchy blend of nylon, polyester, and spandex, the bra easily accommodates your ever-changing breasts. The wire-free bra also features lightly lined cups to provide comfort and support when you need it most. There’s a pretty wide size range too, with plus and full-busted sizing available as well.

What the voters say:

“These were the greatest bras ever.”

“I had this one with my two other kids and it was always super comfy for me.” 

Many bottles have tried to imitate Dr. Brown’s technology, but, as one BabyCenter parent put it, “there’s no contest when it comes to [Dr. Brown’s] bottles.”

Parents, specifically those who have survived the miserable weeks or months of colic, highly recommend Dr. Brown’s bottlesOpens a new window. The Options+ vent (that’s the green part of the bottle) really works to soothe gassy, fussy babies, and when your baby's ready, you can leave it out entirely.

Since they include a few extra small parts, Dr. Brown’s bottles can be a little more difficult to clean compared to some others on the market. But most parents, especially those whose babies were suffering from colic, say they don’t mind the extra cleaning since the air vent really works. The bottles themselves are also strong and durable, and hold their shape and appearance over time without getting cloudy.

It's worth noting this bottle comes in a number of similar-but-not-the-same options that can make them a little confusing to choose: glass, plastic, wide- or narrow-necked, sizes from 4 to 9 ounces. Each has their pluses and minuses. 

What the voters say:

“Anti-colic really makes a difference with this brand. And the bottle never gets foggy.”

“The anti-colic aspect really does work to get the air bubbles out.”

“Dr. Brown's bottles don't leak, are easy enough to clean, and are easy to transition to. My breastfed baby had no trouble going from breast to bottle for daycare!”

“Baby loves these bottles and took to them from day one! They have an anti-colic vent system. They are sturdy and the nipple is the same as Dr. Brown's pacifier...made to imitate a human nipple. Great product!”

“I tried so many bottles because my baby had a tongue tie. Dr Browns was the only one my baby would take."

“Easy for baby to drink from these with a scaling nipple system as they age. They help prevent gas as well.”

“The inside part helps minimize gas, which helps my little one be happier.  It's easy to buy individual parts to replace or grow with your baby (i.e. nipples of different sizes) and they don't take up too much cabinet space allowing easier storage.”

“We haven't had any issues with this brand.”

When parents have a choice in formula (and we know that hasn't exactly been easy over the past few years) and ponder the question of what goes in an infant’s delicate stomach, they trust the Similac name. Similac is the go-to brand for hospital infant feeding and with more than 100 years of research into infant formula going into Similac’s products, parents appreciate the innovative ingredients. Many BabyCenter parents told us their pediatricians recommended this brand, which they say is gentle on their babies’ stomachs.

You have different options when it comes to Similac. The brand’s 360 Total Care formulaOpens a new window is considered their closest formula to breast milk. There’s also NeoSureOpens a new window (designed with premature babies in mind), AlimentumOpens a new window (non-GMO and hypoallergenic formula), and Pure BlissOpens a new window (which is non-GMO and free of artificial growth hormones and antibiotics).

What the voters say:

“Has multiple varieties and helps gives my baby the nutrients they need.”

“Good rewards program!”

“It wasn't hard on my daughter's stomach.”

“Helped my baby catch up with growth, he does well on it (not much gas, hardly any spit up) and they run good deals/coupons making it affordable.”

“It’s a pretty common brand which makes it a bit more accessible. And they have a rewards program that gives you coupons."

Another trusted brand, Enfamil tied with Similac in our survey for the best infant formula. Multiple BabyCenter parents cited Enfamil’s high-quality ingredients as well as how smoothly the powdered version mixes with water. As with Similac, there are a number of options to choose from (more below), and parents tell us that each variety is gentle enough for sensitive stomachs.

Enfamil is available in a number of different lines, including EnspireOpens a new window (which contains an ingredient called lactoferrin for brain support), NeuroPro GentleEaseOpens a new window (designed to be extra gentle on tummies for babies with gas or colic), and NeuroProOpens a new window, a BabyCenter parent favorite that has brain-building omega-3 DHA fatty acids.

What the voters say:

“Mixes well and baby loves it. The NeuroPro line is the best.”

“Enfamil blends the smoothest and quickest and causes little tummy discomfort.”

“I used formula very rarely but this was my go-to when I needed it. I trust the brand.”

“The gentlease product was great at reducing gas and I life saver when I could not produce enough milk.” 

“It was all my first would eat.”

Getting your baby to transition from bottle to cup can be a slow, sometimes stressful process, but parents say the Munchkin Miracle 360 Trainer Sippy CupOpens a new window makes it easier. Part of the appeal is that these BPA-free plastic cups have a 360-degree drinking edge, allowing your little one to sip from any angle. And thanks to the leakproof seal, parents don’t have to worry about spills.

The relatively simple design also makes it easy to clean, as you don’t have to deal with any spouts or valves. It’s top-rack dishwasher safe too, in case you want to avoid using bottle brushes. Plus, the soft material is comfortable for little hands to grip, helping to ease the transition.

What the voters say: 

“Worked well, easy to clean.”

“Currently using it for my baby. She likes it just learning. Love how it does not spill.”

“This Munchkin cup is so great. Its spill proof and acts like a true cup. There is a silicone top that allows the baby to suck water out.” 

“Always used the Munchkin Miracle 360 cups with my first. Supposedly better for teeth development and like how it mimics a real cup, I really do love those things! She now easily drinks like a champ from regular cups.”

Those first few baths with a baby can be a little intimidating, but Angelcare’ Baby Bath SupportOpens a new windowhelps alleviate some of the anxiety around bathing a slippery newborn. You simply place it in your tub, then place your little one atop the ergonomically designed seat. It will cradle your newborn, providing just the right amount of comfort and support.

The lightweight plastic seat features small holes that function as drains, making cleaning significantly easier (especially if there’s a mid-bath poopsplosion). It also comes with a handy built-in hook, so you can hang it up to dry after bath time.

What the voters say:  

“Very easy to bathe baby in. It dries super fast” 

“I feel baby is secure and it’s easy to wash their hair because of the angle.”

“I have the same bath and I love it!  And so does baby!!”

Chances are you’ve seen more than a few Uppababy Vista V2Opens a new window strollers around town and wondered why they’re so popular. To start, the Vista V2 provides a smooth ride, thanks to its shock-absorbing wheels. It also offers a ton of storage, with the undercarriage basket holding up to 30 pounds.

But the biggest selling point is that it’s designed to grow with your child—and family. The stroller comes with a lie-flat bassinet for use during the newborn stage, as well as a toddler seat that holds children up to 40 pounds. There are also several accessories, like the PiggyBack Ride-Along BoardOpens a new window, that can turn your stroller from a single to a double or even a triple.

All these features come with a high price tag, but BabyCenter moms say it’s worth it if you plan on having more than one child.

What the voters say:

"I have the Vista and I love it! There's a huge basket underneath, and I love that you can turn your baby to face you or face forward. Also, I love the bassinet and that the stroller works with our car seat."

“Also love the Uppababy Vista V2 Stroller! Perfect for the baby through toddler stage! Nothing better than one purchase to last throughout their lives!"

Baby soothing meets high-tech capabilities with the innovative 4moms MamaRooOpens a new window. Rather than moving baby back and forth, this baby swing has five modes: Car ride, rock-a-bye, kangaroo, wave, and tree swing. It also has four programmed sounds, though you can connect it to your phone and play any music you’d like for your little one (During his fussiest moments, my son loved listening to the Beach Boys on the kangaroo setting).  

Of course, blowouts can happen during these soothing swings, but there’s good news: You can remove the machine-washable cover for a quick clean. 

What the voters say:

“Baby’s love it it’s comfortable has many different options for swinging easy to use”

"We caved and bought the 4moms swing. We love it. It's our secret weapon for those gassy, restless evenings. There's a much wider range of speed than many other swings and the highest level is just right. The only thing I would change is that the mobile doesn't move on its own."

"I highly recommend this swing. My 2-month-old has colic and we literally could not put her down during the day. Within minutes of putting her in this swing, she was happily staring up at the little balls, especially the mirrored one."

"Our newborn son loves this! It has been a lifesaver for us. He loves all the different motions. Really cool features as well. It's a little pricey, but it's nice."

The goal of a play mat is to entertain baby and stimulate their senses, and Fisher-Price Deluxe Kick & Play Piano GymOpens a new window really delivers. This compact, brightly colored play mat offers lots of musical fun, including a piano with five light-up keys and two separate rattle maracas. 

Not to mention, it grows with your little one over time: At first, your baby can play with the overhead toys while kicking at the piano keys. Later your little one can play with the keys during tummy time or detach the piano and take it anywhere. You can attach the toys to the mat to make tummy time more appealing, and you can remove the toy bar, too, when your baby needs more room to sit up. 

What the voters say:

“Keeps kids entertained through a decent age range!”

“Affordable and my son loved the music when he kicked it.” 

“Kept baby entertained for months. Songs were not irritating to parents.”

“Sooo much fun for the babies! Keep him occupied so mama could get a minute lol! Great for tummy time and working those legs!”

“Keeps baby busy for a long time great for tummy time and when out of the infant stage your baby is left with a fun piano.”

“Reasonable in price and baby loves it.”

Jumpers can be bulky and bright, but the Skip Hop Baby Activity Center wins points for its minimalist design and toys that “aren’t overstimulating,” BabyCenter parents say. The toys on this good-looking activity center are cute and fun: A lamb rattle that wobbles, swaying stars, and, best of all, an electronic piano your baby can play with their feet. The seat allows your baby to spin 360 degrees, and when your baby outgrows the activity center it transforms into a play table with a plastic chalkboard surface.

What the voters say:

“My baby loves the attachments and I love that it turns into a table after.”

“My baby loves it! He interacts with the toys included and it helps him with his milestones. I also love that it turns into a table later when he’s older. I plan to get the chairs and put them in his room. A definite yes for me!”

“My son loves it and the colors and toys are not overstimulating.” 

“So fun for baby and keeps growing with kids.”

“Will forever be the best. Helps baby balance it’s perfect and simple.”

You likely played with (and loved) Fisher-Price toys as a kid, so you’ll be happy to know the brand continues to provide entertaining and developmentally focused toys. BabyCenter parents appreciate the reasonable price point and quality materials of Fisher-Price’s assortment of activity centers, instruments, playsets, and more. Plus, there are toys for kids of all ages, ranging from birth to 5 years old—and several of the toys can be used for multiple years.

Some BabyCenter favorites include the Laugh & Learn Smart Stages PuppyOpens a new window (above), which can teach babies more than 100 words, and the Laugh & Learn Wake Up & Learn Coffee MugOpens a new window, a handheld toy with more than 20 songs, sounds, and phrases.

What the voters say: 

“Very affordable and also very durable!”

“My kid is using TONS of toys from late 1970s to early 1980s from when my siblings and i used them. We also have new fisher price stuff.  These things last forever and get a lot of attention.  Toys lasting almost 50 years?  Yes please.”

“Brand never disappoints.”

“Reasonable in price and keeps baby entertained.”

Packed with features that make this play yard suitable for newborns through toddlers, this nursery nerve center comes complete with a changing station and a bassinet (the “travel dome” of the title) that allows your newborn to nap safely. It can also be folded and taken with you in its own carry bag. Once your child’s outgrown the portable bassinet, it comes off to reveal a full-sized bassinet, or a sleep and play space for children weighing up to 30 pounds.

What the voters say:

“This is so nice because it allows me to have somewhere to lay baby and relocate them to different rooms in the house, and to change diapers without getting a second changing table for the different floors of my house.”

“Because it’s an all-in-one product with a detachable bassinet to use on the go, and has an changing area.”

“Graco consistently has excellent and safe pack ‘n plays. The quality, price point, and ease of assembly make it my favorite travel safe space for sleep. We recently purchased a second one for when our next baby comes!”

“It has everything a new parent needs.”

“Comes with portable bassinet has full sized bassinet wheels for easy moving one button to close it and a large tote bag to take the portable bassinet places.”

“Configuration options are nice for when baby is a guest at someones house or in a hotel.”

“You can fold it up and take it with you anywhere.”

“Convenient place to sleep the baby for naps and not hurt back when changing dispers.”

The Graco Hadley 4-in-1 Convertible CribOpens a new window has a classic design and is made of high-quality pine, which already makes it a winner among most parents. But the biggest selling point, according to BabyCenter moms, is that the Graco crib allows your child to sleep comfortably for as long as they live with you: The crib converts first into a toddler bed, then a daybed, and finally into a full-size bed with a headboard. Now that’s a long-lasting sleeping space!

Parents also appreciate the crib’s non-toxic finish (a necessity when baby decides to start teething on the crib) and the convenient bottom drawer for clothing, diapers, and anything else you need to stow away in baby’s nursery. If you want even more customization, there’s a 5-in-1 versionOpens a new window with a changing table and three drawers.

What the voters say:

“I got the Graco Hadley 5 in 1 because my nursery is smaller and I didn't have room for separate pieces. I mean, I did, but I wanted a glider and bookshelf instead. I also looked at a ton of crib-to-bed pieces and most looked funny as a bed. I'm okay with how the Hadley looks in all it's stages.” 

“I love that this combo has the drawers, but it also has the shelves to keep the diapers and such that you need more immediately in arms reach. The bottom drawer is also great to store extra bedding or the extra diapers you have stockpiled in bigger sizes.” 

"[W]e did the Graco Hadley adjustable bed. I like that it has a drawer and can grow with baby."

It’s easy to overlook a crib mattress, but this is an essential new-baby purchase. Made of high-density memory foam, the Serta Perfect Start Baby Crib MattressOpens a new window is a true winner. This dual-sided mattress has a firm side for babies and a softer side for toddlers, so you’ll get years of use out of it. In addition to its longevity, parents appreciate that the mattress has square edges for a snug fit in a standard crib. It also comes with a waterproof cover that you can wipe down if (and realistically, when) your little one has an overnight blowout or leakage.

What the voters say:

“Not too hard and not too soft.”

“Super comfortable.”

It can take time to master your swaddling technique, but the SwaddleMe OriginalOpens a new window makes it easy to wrap babies securely. This swaddle sack has Velcro “wings” that wrap around baby to help you achieve a snug, comfortable fit, and the foot pouch can be pulled down for diaper changes without unraveling everything. This is also one of the most affordable swaddles on the market, with three included in a pack for $35. But parents say the 100% cotton fabric feels high quality and washes nicely.

What the voters say:

“Used this brand for several of my children, including the newest addition. Quality and durability.”

“They are easy and fast. I love knowing I can get my baby calm and cozy fast and feel confident in doing it!”

“Super snug but not too restrictive for baby. Love these.” 

Uncomplicated to get on, comfortable for parents to wear, supportive for little ones, and just $38. The Infantino Flip 4-in-1 Convertible CarrierOpens a new window is an affordable carrier that’s designed to be used through toddlerhood. Start with the front-facing carrier position when your little one is a newborn, switch to the facing-out position when your baby has enough head control, and eventually use the back carrying mode when your child reaches toddlerhood (the upper weight limit is 32 pounds, so most families should get many years of use out of this). It’s available in seven colors and includes the brand’s Wonder Cover bib to protect your clothes. 

What the voters say:

“Easy to use and not heavy. Uncomplicated and easy to get my baby in and out. My baby really enjoys it.”

“Fits many different body shapes and sizes while supporting your child through various ages and stages.”

“I’ve used this one for everything from grocery shopping to hiking with baby and it’s really comfortable for me.”

“Not so bad on the back, helps get this house clean!”

“It's convenient and easy to use."

“You can’t feel their weight it’s evenly distributed.”

Parents love the fit of Pampers SwaddlersOpens a new window, and the newborn-friendly features, which include a cut-out space on each diaper for your baby's healing umbilical cord stump and an indicator that changes colors to let you know when your little one needs a change. They’re also solid for up to 12 hours of overnight protection – which means fewer middle-of-the-night diaper changes.

What the voters say:

“We LOVE Pampers! They're durable (don't rip on accident like some others). They're absorbent (and don't leak like others). They're affordable AND the Pampers rewards are nice too!” 

“I’ve used them for all my babies. They’re very absorbent and fit well as they grow.” 

“I love Pampers because of their sturdiness.”

“Haven’t had a blowout yet!”

“Easy to put on and off for on-demand changing. Good sizing.”

“They seem to fit so snug and beautifully compared to so many odd fitting or loose or bulky other ones and they hold SO much.”

“Never disappoints, doesn’t give baby a rash and seem comfortable and breathable. Always always Pampers!!!!”

Formulated especially for sensitive baby skin, Pampers' wipesOpens a new window are fragrance-free, sturdy, and gentle at a reasonable price. Containing pH-balanced lotion, they’re a great defense against diaper rash and suitable for everyday use. BabyCenter parents say they’re non-irritating and oh-so-soft against sensitive skin.

What the voters say:

“Pampers have very durable wipes that do not rip coming out of the package like many others. They also don't have the strange odor that many ‘fragrance-free’ wipes have. Plus, the Pampers rewards are nice, too!”

“Best product to use for babies with sensitive skin.” 

“If you truly want a soft wipe for baby’s skin this is it! I will not buy any other brand.”

For babies with sensitive skin, Huggies’ fragrance-free wipesOpens a new window are a must-have. In fact, these wipes have received the National Eczema Association’s Seal of Acceptance, deeming them suitable for people with eczema or sensitive skin. In addition to keeping baby’s skin free from rashes and other irritations, BabyCenter parents praise the thickness of Huggies’ wipes. One parent even mentioned they only need to use one wipe per diaper change.

What the voters say: 

“Great for sensitive skin.”

“Great value and keeps wetness.”

“My daughter was allergic to other brands, so huggies was the only one I could use, plus I like how they are wet but not soaked.”

“Only wipe our sensitive bottomed babies can use. Strong but gentle. Not too difficult to get just 1 wipe at a time.”

“After trying others I always go back to Huggies because they are thick. That’s all I need.” 

Baby’s first diaper rash is an unfortunate rite of passage for parents, and many cycle through a few options before finding the one that can effectively heal their baby’s sensitive skin. However, many BabyCenter parents find that Aquaphor Baby Healing Ointment Advanced TherapyOpens a new window is the perfect treatment for diaper rash. Most diaper rash creams contain zinc oxide, but Aquaphor’s main ingredient is petrolatum; it’s equally moisturizing and gentle but not as thick, making it easier to spread without further irritating your baby’s skin.

Parents also appreciate the versatility of Aquaphor’s ointment. Many have used it on their baby’s chapped, dry skin during the winter months and even lather it on themselves for extra moisturization. It’s truly a multi-purpose product, which every mom can appreciate.

What the voters say: 

“Gentle and doesn't cause break outs.”

“Doesn’t leave a residue on baby’s skin.”

“The best !!! Love this product!”

“Works the best also doesn’t burn baby’s bum when they have a bad diaper rash and eczema approved.” 

“I love that it’s clean! No rashes as of 6 months!”

“My baby has yet to get a diaper rash *knock on wood* and that may be due to the fact that I regularly use aquaphor when changing him.  (Pro tip: keep q-tips in your changing table for application)  I have been using it since birth and I still have at least 1/3 of a tub left 4 months later.”

Not every diaper bag can accommodate all of baby’s gear (diapers, wipes, bottles, a spare set of clothes) while also delivering style points, but BabbleRoo’s bagOpens a new window isan exception. There’s truly a pocket for everything here (think insulated bottle pockets and a separate area for wipes) as well as a number of thoughtful touches that make outings with baby easier, such as a foldable changing mat and detachable pacifier holder. Crucially, it’s also durable: The water-resistant fabric is sturdy and “looks like new” even after regular use, BabyCenter parents say.

What the voters say:

“There are so many pockets available!”

“Sturdy material. I've been using it for over a year and it still looks new. It also has a lot of pocket options so there's so much room for storage.” 

“Because it has tons of space to carry, along with the changing pad and openings for bottles and all the other features.” 

It can be hard to get excited about a diaper pail, but a good one really makes a difference in trapping odors. The Diaper Genie CompleteOpens a new window’s odor-lock system puts the kibosh on diaper stink, and it’s hands-free, so you never have to touch anything dirty. Just step to open the pail and toss, then pull out the bag of diapers from the clean bottom of the sack when full. Not to mention it holds 36 diapers, which you'll be thankful for during those early days of frequent blowouts. (If, however, you want a diaper pail with larger capacity, the Diaper Genie PlatinumOpens a new window is a stainless steel option that holds up to 47 newborn diapers.) C-section moms love not having to bend over to discard diapers, too. This pail requires ompatible refill bags, so take that cost into consideration. 

What the voters say:

“Keeps smells locked in.”

“So compact. Easy to empty and refill with a clean bag. Keeps the smell in and flies out.”

“Keeps storage great and keeps the smell compact, holds a lot.”

The trendy Hatch Rest 2nd GenerationOpens a new window combines a nightlight, sound machine, and a toddler training clock into one good-looking gadget parents control with a phone or tablet. Program the Rest to turn off and on at a scheduled time (which is very handy for making transitions like Daylight Saving shifts), or operate on the fly with the Rest app. The sound quality is good, and parents deeply appreciate being able to operate everything from their phone without risking disrupting baby. Also cool: It changes colors, a soothing feature toddlers particularly appreciate.

What the voters say:

“You can sync it to your phone. It changes colors and has multiple sound options. We have used it every night for almost two years.” 

“You can control it for your phone without having to go in baby’s room and disturb them.”

“Love the color options and that I can control it with my phone and schedule a program.”

“Can control it from my phone.”

“It combines a night light with a sound machine and allows for easy middle of the night feeds/changes. It also comes with an app that allows me to change the sound and light level from my phone without disturbing baby.”

“It grows with baby.”

“Love the app controls and time to rise programs/routines.”

You have tons of choices when it comes to baby monitors, and many come with bells and whistles that, while nice, can hike up the price. That’s why many BabyCenter parents prefer the HelloBaby Video Baby MonitorOpens a new window: At under $100, it’s a no-frills device that doesn't skimp on quality. The remote-control camera, which can be mounted on the wall, rotates to provide a clear image of your baby from any angle. The monitor itself is compact, so you’re not lugging around extra weight. On top of that, the HelloBaby monitor has night vision mode, a room temperature monitor and alert system, and two-way communication so you can soothe your baby from another room.

What the voters say:

“Good price. Has all the features you need.”

“I bought this one off of Amazon. It’s simple and easy to use. Overall works great.” 

Regalo is known for their sturdy and safe baby gates, and the Regalo Easy Open Baby GateOpens a new window gets high marks because of its extra-wide and tall options, durability, adjustability (a 4- and 12-inch extension is included with your purchase), and approachable installation instructions. To add to its versatility, you can also choose to pressure mount or hardware mount your gate. 

What the voters say:

“Easy to put together and sturdy. Holds up like a champ.”

“Helped keep him off stairs till we could teach him to climb them.”

“Pretty easy install. Held up fine to heavy toddlers shaking and pulling on it almost daily.”