When I was doing all the baby research while I was pregnant with my first, I spent a lot of time looking at strollers. I knew that if I loved being outside to run and walk by myself, I would LOVE walking and running with our baby. I was so right. Well, I am now. For the first few months, our first son hated the stroller, so we didn’t use it much (now that he’s older, he loves stroller rides). Our second baby was a different story. He loved the stroller from the second we put him in it. And now, he’s 5 months old and a stroller walk is one of the best ways to get him to nap or calm down if he’s fussy. Heck, it helps me calm down too!

While I’m going to get into the pros and cons below, in short – the Uppababy Vista V2 stroller is our most-used baby item and was the first thing I put on my baby registry. If you want a high-end stroller that has a very smooth ride, both for your little one and for you to push (I promise it does make a difference for the moms and dads too), you’ll love it. I don’t know anyone who regrets buying it and a lot of my friends own it too.

While we do have 4 strollers (I’ll explain which ones below) the stroller that has gotten the very most use in 3+ years is definitely the Uppababy Vista. When I was pregnant, my husband was skeptical of a $900+ stroller. Yeah, the Uppababy Vista stroller is pricey. But now, he and I both agree that it’s worth every penny. And today, I’m sharing why.

You can find the rest of my postpartum essentials linked in this blog post!

Uppababy Vista Stroller Review

Walking is probably my all-time favorite thing to do with the boys. We try go on family walks in the evening when Tommy gets home from work, and when Thomas was younger, I ran with him in the Thule jogging stroller a couple times a week too. Along with the Uppababy Vista, we also have two lightweight strollers from Zoe that we love for travel and when I want to walk with both boys (one of them is a double stroller). I actually just keep the Zoe stroller in my trunk, since I use it when we’re out on adventures throughout the week and it doesn’t take up much space. (See how easily it collapses here. And use this Zoe referral link for 15% off.)

But back to the Lexus of strollers, the Uppababy Vista V2.

The Uppababy Vista is a convertible stroller, meaning it will grow with your child. It has a bassinet attachment for when your little one is tiny and also has car seat compatibility (we have the Uppababy Mesa car seat which can be used with this stroller base with the proper adapter). You can also buy car seat adapters for a handful of other car seats.  As your little one grows, there is a reversible rumble seat so your little guy or girl can face you or face out. All the different options mean that you can use it from the moment you bring your child home all the way until he/she wants to walk alongside you.

It has a SUPER easy locking system to make sure the seat is in correctly and has one-handed recline for your child’s seat. You can also adjust the footrest as your child grows to support their legs. The telescoping handle bar will allow you to adjust the handle height easily (one-handed, actually) and that option is great for Tommy and I, since we’re such different heights, with almost a 12″ difference.

We also love the massive storage basket underneath the stroller. It has awesome ventilation and super easy access from all sides, so there’s no end to what you could put in there.

Pros

Easy to Find in Lots of Colors

I appreciate that you can get this stroller from so many different retailers. We got ours from Nordstrom (it’s usually included every year in the Nordstrom Anniversary sale), but you can grab it from Pottery Barn, Amazon, Bloomingdales, etc., as well. It also comes in lots of colors, which I appreciate. We have the “Gregory” colorway that has a blue mélange seat and shade and silver frame. It’s easy to re-sell too, once you’re finished using it

Adjustable Handle

This is super important for both me and Tommy. There’s a large height gap between us (he’s 6′ and I’m 5’1″), and the stroller handle adjusts easily with one hand. This is a feature I really miss when I’m using my other strollers, so if you’re short and/or your husband is tall, you’ll appreciate this. The tallest the handle will get is 44″.

Peek-a-Boo Window

I LOVE this. It’s a little window with a magnetic closure on the top of the sunshade. When Thomas was younger, his favorite thing was to sit outward and look around, so I used this little window to look at him without having to stop, put the break locks on, and walk around to take a peak. It’s super convenient and cute.

Front or Rear Facing Seat

When Thomas was smaller, we’d face him towards us (and Charles faces us now). But now that Thomas is bigger, we face him outward so he can look around. Having the ability to do both is essential if you’re going to make a significant investment in a stroller like this, and Uppababy Vista is the only stroller I’ve seen that can do it (if you know of others, please share in the comments). I also love that the Vista stroller has 6 seat recline positions, so naps are possible while you walk, and as your little one grows you can adjust how upright they sit.

Bassinet

We used the bassinet right when we brought Thomas and Charles home. This didn’t get a ton of use when Thomas was little, and we actually prefer the car seat attachment with Charles, but for other babies that love to go on walks as infants, the bassinet is amazing. It fits children from birth to 20 lbs or 20″. It also includes a perforated mattress pad and vented base (great for breathability and comfort). You can even buy a bassinet stand for your house that fits this exact bassinet, which is a great way to make the most out of your purchase.

This was on our first-ever stroller walk with Thomas, a few days after I got home from the hospital. I went half a block and was wiped out!

Compatible with the MESA Car Seat

If you’re getting the Uppababy MESA infant car seat, you’ll appreciate the compatibility with this stroller. It clicks right in, so you can put your baby in the car, put the stroller in the trunk, and then use them together wherever you go. The Vista stroller has lots of accessories that you can buy as well. These are sold separately, which is a con since other strollers (namely, the Zoe strollers) have so many accessories included or built-in (like a snack cup, water bottle holder, phone holder, etc.).

Expandable for 2 Children

I think this is a huge selling point, especially as a mom of two. This stroller fits two children, which makes the investment that much easier! The VISTA fits two infant car seats, two bassinets, two seats – or a combination of those to make it a great double stroller (although Uppababy does have a traditional umbrella double stroller that would be great for twins as another stroller option). It gave me peace of mind knowing that I would be able to use this if we had a second (and now we do).

This photo is from Vista’s website, showing how you can use it with up to THREE children! There isn’t room for three seats, but if you have an older child, they can stand on the back with this piggyback ride along board.

Smooth Ride

It may sound crazy if you haven’t pushed many strollers, but the way this stroller feels is unlike any others. It’s a very smooth ride, easy to push on uneven terrain, easy to maneuver with one hand, etc.

I took the way that it glides for granted, since I thought it was normal, until I pushed other strollers with average or below-average wheel suspension. The Vista stroller has all-wheel suspension and independent shocks which makes it incredibly comfortable. It’s the best in it’s class. You can also use the front wheel lock to keep the stroller aligned and steady on uneven terrain.

The UppaBaby Vista stroller feels like a Lexus: smooth, sturdy, well-made, etc. And considering how much you’ll use a stroller, this is a really nice perk for the parents!

Brakes

The foot pedal parking brake is convenient and easy to use. Nothing fancy but it is easier to use than my other strollers’ lock brakes, which you have to push up on with your toe to unlock. On the Uppababy, you push down to lock and push again to release.

Uppababy Vista Accessories

You can find all sorts of accessories for this stroller like this snack tray, foot pedestal for a second or third older kid, a stroller caddy basket organizer, etc. We got the waterproof leather handlebar cover and it looks so nice. Since all of these are sold separately, you may want to add a few to your registry since it gets pricey with all the add-ons.

Uppababy Vista Storage

The bottom of the stroller has SO MUCH SPACE, and is easy to access, which is amazing for a diaper bag, snacks, or whatever else you need. The bottom is a vented base so it is breathable if you were to put groceries in the bottom. The storage basket holds up to 30 lbs, so there’s no end to what you could put down there.

Cons

Price

The price is a significant investment at $999.99. But because you can use it for so long AND with multiple kids, I think it’s a worthwhile purchase. You can also buy it used if you keep an eye on Facebook Marketplace, but they go quickly so you have to act fast. Or snag it during the Nordstrom Anniversary sale!

Size

Now that I’ve had other strollers that are more compact, this feels enormous by comparison. But as long as I’m not trying to take it around town too often, I don’t mind at all, since it just stays in my garage.

Not Easy to Fold and Pack

It’s definitely not a travel stroller but it’s easy to break down. First, you remove the seat, and then the base collapses and folds. It takes up a lot of space and it’s not one handed like other strollers. So this is more of a stroller you’d keep at home, not one you’d want to take around town too often. It’s not too heavy, but it does take a couple extra steps and is larger than compact strollers.

It fits in the back of my small SUV, and since the seat takes up so much space, I end up packing things into the seat itself (I took this pic as part of a Justin’s partnership, but it really is what I do with the seat storage if I am taking it somewhere).

How to Clean Uppababy Vista

To clean the frame, I typically use a damp cloth and wipe everything down. I will use Force of Nature cleaner for this in most cases. When the seat itself is super grimy, I will take it off the frame and hand wash it or spot treat it with Force of Nature cleaner or sometimes a mild laundry detergent. Then I lay it all flat to dry outside in the sun.

I love that the fabric is removable and washable. While I don’t wash it too often (I should probably wash it more!), it’s never a real pain when I do.

Uppababy Vista Stroller Specs

What’s Included?

• Frame
• Four wheels
• Bassinet with bug shield and storage bag
• Toddler seat with rain and bug shield canopy + sun shade (UPF 50+!)
• Bumper bar

Dimensions

Stroller Weight: 26.6 lbs (frame + toddler seat)

Weight Limit:  50 lbs (toddler seat)

Stroller Dimensions: 25.7″ x 36″ x 39.5″ (WxLxH)

Fold Dimensions:  25.7″ x 17.3″ x 33″ (WxLxH)

Handlebar Height:  39.5″ – 42.5″

Where to buy

• Nordstrom
• Pottery Barn Kids
• Bloomingdales
• Amazon

Bottom line: Is Uppababy Worth It?

I LOVE this stroller. My husband and I both agree it’s one of the best things we got as first-time parents. We truly love how smooth the ride is, the extendable handlebar that allows for both my tall husband and and I to push it with ease, the front wheel lock that makes it easier to steer, and the ability to use it with two kids. I truly can’t say better things about this stroller…the hype is indeed real.

Shop the Uppababy Vista at Nordstrom here.

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The post Uppababy Vista Stroller Review and Is It Worth It? appeared first on TeriLyn Adams.

If you’re looking for details about what I packed in my hospital bag, you’ll find that info here, and I also have a C-section hospital bag packing list post here.

Postpartum Must Haves for Moms

1 – Water bottle

I’m so thirsty ALL THE TIME, especially when nursing and staying hydrated is so important for milk supply. I was not able to use a straw for the first bit after my C-section, so I ordered this Owala water bottle. It’s perfect since it has an internal straw (which I’m using now), but it also has an opening where you can chug water normally. You can order Owala water bottles from Amazon.

I have 1-2 LMNT electrolyte packets a day so sometimes that goes in my water bottle too. (Read my review of LMNT here.)

2 – Face Oil + Overnight Face Mask

My skin has been SO dry since having Charles (it’s always dry, but it’s significantly more dry these days), so every time I get up to nurse throughout the night, I put on a layer of the Colleen Rothschild No 9 Face Oil and then a layer of their Intense Hydrating Mask. I reapply 3-4 times a night, and my skin looks great!

Use code TERILYN20 if you order from Colleen Rothschild, and read this post for more details on why I love the No. 9 Facial Oil.

Here’s my full skincare routine that’s pregnancy safe and breastfeeding safe.

3 – Lip balm

Along with my face, my lips are so dry. I use the Colleen Rothschild Butter Lip Mask every time I get up to nurse, and I keep the Colleen Rothschild Vitamin E lip moisturizer next to my glider since it’s easier to apply with one hand.

You can get the lip mask and lip moisturizer in a set along with a lip scrub in this lip trio for a great discount here. And use code TERILYN20 at checkout as well.

4 – Frida Baby 3-in-1 Cool Mist Humidifier

I’ve also been using the Frida Humidifier every night to help with my dry skin in the winter. Both my boys also have dry skin, so I ended up buying 3 total– one for my room, one for Thomas’ room, and one in Charles’ nursery. Not only is it a great humidifier, but it also has a built-in nightlight that is the perfect amount of light. Not too dark or too bright, just right! I have the XL size and love that I don’t have to refill it every single day.

5 – Perelel Postnatal Vitamins and Supplements

I used Perelel prenatal vitamins when I was pregnant with Charles and fell in love with the brand (see a reel I filmed for Perelel here). They make trimester specific support packs so it takes the guesswork out of what vitamins/supplements you need each trimester…brilliant), and so I knew immediately that I’d use Perelel for my postnatal support too.

I’ve been taking the supplements and vitamins in the Mom Multi Support Pack for the last few weeks and I love it. The pack is designed specifically for postpartum, breastfeeding, and early motherhood and contains a full-spectrum multivitamin, omega DHA + EPA, a beauty blend, and an anti-stress blend. It’s super comprehensive, as outlined below.

• Mom Multi Provides Optimal Nutrition
• Mom Multi Provides Immune Support
• Omega DHA + EPA Supports Heart & Brain Health
• Omega DHA + EPA Provides Mood Support
• Beauty Blend Supports Hair, Skin & Nail Health
• Stress Support Blend Supports Emotional Balance
• Stress Support Blend Provides Antioxidants

I appreciate that Perelel was founded by an OB/GYN and two moms. I wish I had known about this brand when I had Thomas! You can see all of my Perelel favorites linked here.

6 – Lots of PJs

I sweat through 3 pairs of pajamas a night. Like they’re SOAKED. So having multiple pairs of clean PJs is essential. I prefer LAKE Pajamas, specifically the Pima Ruffle Nightgown because you can pull the straps down easily to nurse and it puts no pressure on my incision. I also like this pair of PJs from Joy Street since the pants are a little more comfortable with an incision and the button front makes nursing and pumping easy. Whichever route you go for PJs, get a lot of them.

I have a full review of LAKE Pajamas linked here.

7 – Full size towels by the bed

I keep two full-size towels next to my bed to swap out in the middle of the night to avoid soaking my fitted sheet. When I get up to nurse, I pull the wet towel off, change into dry PJs, nurse and then put a dry towel down when getting back in bed.

Treat yourself to nice towels for this since you’ll want something soft and fluffy to sleep on. My favorite bath towels are these by Serena & Lily.

8 – Multiples of your favorite pillow

Again, I sweat through everything at night, including my pillows. Go ahead and grab another one of your favorite pillows to swap out in the middle of the night. My all-time favorite are Lagoon Pillows. I like the Fox pillow but the Chinchilla is good if you like a softer option.

9 – ANYA Recovery Drops with Vitamin C

I add ANYA Recovery Drops to a glass of water every morning to help with recovery. It contains 100% of your daily value of vitamin C which is critical for repairing tissue internally, producing collagen for skin repair, and supporting immunity. Vitamin C is also great because it also helps boost iron absorption. Be sure to use code TERILYN15 for 15% off your order.

10 – Iron Supplement

Replenishing iron stores are really important after birth, especially if you’ve lost a lot of blood. I take Perelel’s Daily Iron Ease which also supports muscle health and energy production.

11 – Frida Disposable Boy Shorts

I’ve been loving this Frida disposable underwear post C-section, but now that I’ve tried them, I’d imagine they’d be perfect for a regular delivery as well. I love that they’re very soft and breathable, but have a lot of room for layering recovery-must-haves. They’re also very thin so you can easily wear them under joggers, leggings or jeans without much showing. (Still, nothing tops my favorite Natori thongs but no one wants to wear those immediately postpartum.)

If you want to skip the disposable underwear, opt for big, soft undies. You’ll want to skip ANYTHING that rubs (see ya, lace), or anything that digs into your sensitive parts. Get big undies. Size up. Trust me, you won’t want anything that rubs (see ya lace) or anything that digs into your sensitive parts. Get big undies. Size up. Make sure they’re full coverage. I purchased these full-coverage briefs from Amazon, in a size Large. I still prefer the Frida option at this point postpartum, but they are pricey so these are a more economical option.

While we’re on the topic, your doctor might also recommend that you do a sitz bath. This is where you soak your bottom half, where you’re likely a little swollen or sore, in warm water. I didn’t know much about these prior to hearing about them while pregnant with Thomas, and they can help reduce swelling. You can order a sitz bath online here.

12 – Care for down there

When I had a vaginal delivery, I liked the Frida mom angled spray peri bottle better than the straight shot bottle from the hospital. Don’t worry about buying pads… the hospital will send you home with plenty. For pain relief, I liked the Tucks pads and Dermoplast the hospital provided and this Frida foam that a friend gave me. I didn’t need any of these for my c-section recovery.

13 – Nursing and Pumping bra

I have more breastfeeding must-haves in a separate blog post, but I wanted to highlight my favorite nursing and pumping bra right now. I love the Kindred Bravely Sublime Wireless Comfort Sleep Pumping Bra. It’s super soft, comfortable, makes nursing easy and comes in a busty-size, which has been great for me. (This post has more of my favorite nursing bras.)

14 – Comfy slippers 

I live in them. I was gifted a pair of Shearling slippers from Jenni Kayne two years ago and I’ve still never gotten over it. Nicest gift EVER. They’re the most luxurious slippers I’ve ever owned and would make a wonderful gift for a new mom. Don’t take them to the hospital though. Take a cheaper pair you can throw again because the hospital floors are just gross.

15 – Postpartum doula hours

Give yourself the gift of a postpartum doula, ESPECIALLY if you don’t have family close by. Heck, even if you do have family close by, a postpartum doula is there to support YOU, with whatever you need. If you’re local, I could not recommend Margo from Born with Margo enough. She was our doula for Thomas and she was the first person I called when I found I was pregnant with Charles.

She comes a few nights a week and stays with Charles in his nursery so I can sleep between feeds. She wakes me up when it’s time to feed Charles, and then changes his diaper and helps him back to sleep after he nurses. It’s life-changing and the best money you could spend. We absolutely adore Margo – she’s like family to us.

16 – Small table at your nursing station

I keep snacks, lip balm, water, and a little lamp by the glider so that I have everything I need beside me when I nurse. Since I’m nursing so often, I practically live in my glider, so I love having a little set-up beside me.

17 – Portable charger

My phone dies all the time these days so I keep one of these near the places I nurse most often.  This portable charger is my favorite because it’s cordless, so you can walk around and use your phone while it’s charging.

18 – Solly Baby Wrap

Thomas loved the Solly Baby wrap and Charles does too! It’s my favorite way to carry Charles and one of my favorite early postpartum must-haves.

19 – Fast, healthy food

I had a smoothie every single day for the first month after having my baby, focusing on iron-boosting ingredients since I lost so much blood, given some complications I had. Most days I made my own smoothie with pineapple, kale, banana and orange juice, but many days I made a Daily Harvest smoothie. I also received a box of Splendid Spoon smoothies as a postpartum gift from a friend and those were great when I starving since they come pre-blended.

This post explains Splendid Spoon and this post explains Daily Harvest.

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Aside from nursing tanks and bras, I never purchase nursing-specific clothing. I find that they are usually unflattering (way too boxy), and the nursing panels aren’t really that convenient–or they just add more bulk. So this round-up is full of non-nursing-specific dresses that just work really well for nursing! I always look for button-front dresses, smocking (stretch is key!) or straps that can untie. Some nursing dresses have a built in double layer over your breasts to help with leaks and modesty, but I just make sure my bras provide enough coverage.

Alright, let’s jump in. I know it can be hard to find cute nursing clothes, so I hope you find something below that fits your feeds and style. And while we’re on the topic, I shared the rest of my postpartum essentials in this post.

The 10 Best Nursing Dresses

1. Amazon Midi Button Front Sweater Dress

I ordered this midi button front sweater dress from Amazon only a few weeks ago as a “going home” outfit option for the hospital, but I’ve gotten much more wear out of it than that. It’s nursing friendly (yes, even though the buttons don’t go super far down), easy to clean (I’ve already cleaned it multiple times), and it also works great for skin to skin.

I have a size small in the light pink colorway, which I believe isn’t available right now. They have a ton of other color options though.

2. Chambray Callahan Shirt Dress

I LOVE the Chambray Callahan Shirt Dress and I’m so excited to wear it again this spring. It’s a thin, lightweight material (the other colors look a bit thicker), and it easily unbuttons for nursing. The fit is relaxed and fun which pairs perfectly with flat or heeled sandals (and platform sneakers). I hang this to dry when I wash, so keep that in mind when purchasing. I have an XS.

3. Annie Smocked Dress

Another one of my favorite nursing-friendly dresses is by Tuckernuck: The Annie Smocked Dress. It comes in 3 colors, and I have the white version. The puff sleeves are SO cute, even on a super petite frame. The smocking on the bodice makes it incredibly breastfeeding friendly, since you can pull down the sleeve and bodice as needed. I like having a long sleeved dress option, as well, for days cooler days.

The material is 100% linen which feels AMAZING in the warmer months. I have owned this for years and plan to wear it again this summer with sandals. However, heels can totally dress this up for a nicer dinner! It’s final sale, but don’t fret. You will love this. I have an XS.

For a more budget-friendly option from Amazon, try this white smocked puff sleeve dress by Anrabess.

4. The Ellie Nap Dress

Hill House is known for making SUPER comfortable day dresses, such as the Nap Dress, that you could easily dress up for the evening too. I love that these Nap Dresses are machine washable (great for nursing mamas, IYKYK) and they have pockets. Since you can easily pull the dress down and the stretch has so much comfort, this is perfect for maternity and nursing moms. I love this piece so much I wrote a whole blog post about the Nap Dress.

For everyday wear, I’d pair with slide sandals, but dress it up with heeled sandals for a night out.

This smocked dress from Amazon is a good look for less; a similar option in some different colorways.

5. Staud Vincent Stretch Cotton Mini Shirtdress

I’m definitely ordering this Vincent Stretch Cotton Mini Shirtdress from Staud for the spring. The key word for me is “stretch!” I love the full button front for easy nursing, but I’m especially excited that this dress has stretch to it since I find that makes a dress so much easier to wear around a toddler. Knowing it won’t wrinkle as badly when I sit is a big green flag!

6. Chambray Crosby Dress

I ordered this Chambray Crosby Dress from Tuckernuck in the late summer last year and ended up returning it, since I ordered the wrong size. I’m planning to order again (in my correct size this time) for the spring since it’s so perfect for nursing. I love the thicker weighted fabric for a more polished feel, especially since the majority of my clothes have been stretchy during the last trimester of pregnancy. This runs true to size.

7. Amazon Denim Shirt Dress

I got this denim shirt dress from Amazon while I was pregnant and it was the perfect maternity-friendly dress. I have a size XS, and it’s super roomy. I’m excited to wear it again this spring, since it’ll be perfect for nursing. The length is great (not too short but still a mini dress) and 3/4 length sleeves with little ruffles add a feminine touch.

8. GAP Tiered Mini Shirtdress

This Tiered Mini Shirtdress from GAP is a great nursing-friendly dress. I love the purple and blue striped colorways, the drop skirt, and the long sleeves. I’d cuff the sleeves and pop the collar for a chicer look.

9. Amazon Pink Denim Romper

I wore this pink denim jumpsuit into the ground this past fall. It is super roomy and comfortable, zips all the way down for easy nursing and restroom-using, and has pockets. There are two buttons on the sides that allow you to adjust the fit a bit but leave the romper extra comfortable and roomy. I have a small.

10. Collared Sleeveless Amazon Shirt Dress

Another dress I wore into the ground last year that I’ll be wearing all spring! This Amazon shirt dress has such a fun drop skirt design, pockets, and buttons all the way down for easy nursing. I have a size small and it comes in a TON of colors.

I hope this roundup helps you find a few dresses to wear while you’re breastfeeding. There are SO many cute options that make nursing easier, you just have to know what to look for. I’ll continue to update this post with dresses I find as I’m shopping, so feel free to bookmark this post and check back later.

If you have an all-time favorite nursing-friendly dress that isn’t included – let me know in the comments! I want to know what it is.

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Our baby has arrived and we‘re totally in love! Below I’m sharing what I packed for our hospital stay. I ended up having a C-section, so while I’m leaving the labor-specific things in this post since I still packed them (and loved them for my first delivery), I am also including a list of C-section essentials, now that I have that experience too. And if you want to read my C-section specific packing list blog post, you’ll find it here.

Packing for the hospital this time around was much less chaotic. As a first time mom with Thomas, I had no idea what I’d need and so I consulted as many people as possible. I ended up mostly referencing the hospital bag packing list from my doula since she has been along for thousands of births and it was SUPER helpful.

For this go ’round, I felt more equipped and had a better idea of what I wanted to have with me. My list didn’t change a ton, but there were a few additions which I’ve noted below. I have a video of packing below or if you prefer, you can also watch the hospital bag packing video on YouTube itself.

I shared my postpartum essentials in this post too, if you’re interested.

Hospital bag checklist for mom, dad and baby

Something I learned from my doula last time was to pack two bags: one for things I’d want during labor and one for things I’d use after delivery. That way, if/when you move rooms, it’s less to pack up. This time, instead of two separate bags, everything went into one bag, but I used two different packing cubes to keep things separate. The weekender bag I brought is bigger than my bag last time, so I just didn’t need two full bags. I also knew I was going to use some things for both labor (or in my case, C-section) and post-delivery, so one bag was a little easier.

All of my thing for the baby went in another separate bag, but I didn’t bring a lot for baby boy #2 since I knew I’ve have a lot of hospital supplies to take home (postpartum things). Tommy packed a bag as well, so we had 3 bags in total.

Okay, here’s what I packed in our hospital bag for baby #2! If you’d like a PDF checklist that you can print emailed directly to you, click here!

Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom

Weekender Bag

I brought my favorite Weekender bag from ShortyLove as my duffle. It’s VERY big – like actually big enough to fit things you’d need for a few nights away. The quality is top notch too.

Here’s what went in it. Some of these things the hospital does provide (like a labor gown or peri bottle), but I learned last time that I preferred mine over what the hospital had.

What I packed for Labor

• Fuzzy socks with grippers
• Oofos sandals
• Labor Gown
• Comfy bra (will also wear post delivery) – I love all of the NEIWAI bras I have.

What I packed for my C-section

• LAKE Cotton Tank Night Gown – This was my favorite by FAR post C-section. It made nursing so much easier (just pull the straps down), and didn’t put any pressure on my incision. I wish I had 2-3 of these. I love LAKE Pajamas – I shared all of the sets I have and sizing details in this post.
• Wedge Pillow – A MUST. Maybe bring two.
• Water bottle without a straw
• Frida C-section disposable undies – I used the hospital undies for the first few days, then switched to these.
• Baobei Undies – After wearing the Frida C-section underwear for a few days, I switched to these.

Post-Delivery

• Joy Street Button front Pajamas – Button front makes nursing and skin-to-skin easier, but you’ll only like these for a vaginal delivery since the waistband isn’t great post C-section.
• Robe or cozy cardigan 
• This sweater set from Amazon as a going home outfit for a vaginal birth.
• This LAKE lounge dress as my going home outfit for post C-section since high waistbands didn’t feel great on my incision yet.
• Nursing tanks from Amazon
• Vuori joggers

Toiletries

All of these items are going in my beloved Amazon Toiletry bag. It holds SO MUCH STUFF.

• Nipple butter
• Colleen Rothschild Vitamin E Lip Balm
• Prenatal vitamins 
• Hair brush
• travel-sized shampoo & conditioner, body wash & body lotion – I was SO happy to shower after having Charles. 
• Glasses
• Frida foam
• Peri bottle
• Ursa Major face wipes
• Face wash, facial oil and moisturizer 
• Contacts + contact solution
• Toothbrush + toothpaste
• Scrunchies + claw clips 
• Deodorant 
• Makeup

Some of this (e.g. makeup and dry shampoo) is for post-delivery, but I want all my toiletries in one place in my toiletry bag.

Miscellaneous Items

• Drivers license and insurance card 
• Birth plan 
• TENS machine + extra battery 
• Charging block + long changing cord – I used the charging block more.
• Blanket and pillow from home (not white so it doesn’t get mixed up with hospital laundry)
• Brestfriend pillows for breastfeeding
• Snacks 
• My favorite electrolytes
• BabyBub pillow
• Eye mask
• Mouth guard 
• Simple Modern water bottle 
• “Thank you” baskets for the nurses filled with goodies
• Portable fan
• Ear plugs

Hospital Bag Checklist for Baby

• Diaper bag 
• Portable sound machine
• Going home outfit (two different sizes)
• Mittens
• Pacifiers 
• Pump 
• Cozy blanket 
• Car seat 

Hospital Bag Checklist for Dad

• Toiletries + toothbrush
• PJs
• Pillow with non-white pillow case
• Change of clothes
• Slippers
• Wallet

I hope this helps if you’re planning for your upcoming delivery and your newborn’s arrival! And if you have any questions, leave a comment and I’m happy to share my experience!

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The post My Hospital bag checklist list for mom, dad and baby appeared first on TeriLyn Adams.

I exclusively breastfed and/or pumped until he was 14 months old, and then I introduced a non-dairy milk option, but he still breastfed 2-3 times a day even at 19 months. I ended up breastfeeding for almost exactly two years – I didn’t wean; he just woke up one day and wouldn’t nurse and that was that.

Now I’m breastfeeding Charles, my second. Similarly to when I had Thomas, breastfeeding hasn’t been without its challenges, but I have great support this time which has made all the difference. (I highly recommend Growing Families lactation class.)

Since I’m breastfeeding what feels like all the time these days, I thought I’d round-up and share all of my favorite nursing essentials in case it’s helpful for you! I also shared the rest of my postpartum essentials in this blog post.

My Breastfeeding Must-Haves

If breastfeeding is a good option for you, it has lots of benefits for you and your baby. It obviously provides excellent nutrition for your baby, but there are lots of other things it may help with:

• Decreases your baby’s risk of allergies and lactose intolerance
• Increases resistance to infections
• Decreases the mother’s risk of breast and ovarian cancer
• Helps the uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size

So today, I’m sharing my breast feeding must haves, in hopes that they can make it easier and more enjoyable for you too.

1. Comfortable glider that reclines

I was so surprised by how much seating mattered to me as I was breastfeeding. The first glider we bought with our first son was the basic Pottery Barn Glider. However, we learned that a recliner option would have been better, so we bought the reclining glider option for our place in Boone. While the recliner was great, I’m so short that it was very hard for me to close the leg rest.

So, for the new baby, we bought a glider with a power recliner and I absolutely LOVE it. (You can see it in our nursery here.) I didn’t realize that it has a plug for my phone too, which is nice since I spend so much time in it.

2. The right Nursing Pillow

I love the My Brest Friend Nursing Pillow best. I orginally packed a soft and pretty breastfeeding pillow in my hospital bag when I went to have Thomas and it was TERRIBLE. I had SO many issues breastfeeding in the hospital, for a few reasons, but once I got home and used the Brest Friend pillow, things improved dramatically. The first one I used was soft and cozy, but did NOT help with positioning, so I HIGHLY recommend My Brest Friend Pillow. I upgraded to one with super cozy fabric which has been my preference with Charles.

I ended up buying three eventually – one for upstairs, one for downstairs and one to keep in my car.

3. A Battery Powered Pump

With my first baby, I used the Spectra S2 Plus Hospital Strength Double Electric Breast Pump with a cord, but I wish I had the battery powered Spectra so I didn’t have to sit near an outlet each time. So, this time around, I got the battery powered Spectra (through my insurance!) and it has been a complete game-changer. I can also tell this one is stronger than the other, which may be because I used the corded one for two full years. Either way, get the battery powdered Spectra and thank me later.

Whichever pump you get, take it with you to deliver your baby since the hospital’s lactation consultant can help you use it. Some babies have a hard time latching (mine did) so it was nice to be able to pump at the hospital with the same pump I’d be using at home.

You may also want to get a hand pump. This is a great option to start the flow if your baby is fussy and impatient. It’s also very handy if you’re on the go.

4. Elvie Catcher Cups

Haakas are so hard to get on when nursing and baby often kicks off. Plus they can mess with supply and fullness when baby is ready to nurse. Elvie Cups catch what you’re leaking without pulling – like a breastfeeding pad – but then you can actually use the milk. I just stick in my bra!

5. Kids Snack Tray to Hold Pump Bottles

This is a little hack I learned this go round!

6. Pumping Bra

I didn’t know that pumping bras were a thing until I was about 3 months postpartum and my doula suggested one. Unlike nursing bras which make it easy to access to breastfeed, pumping bras help make pumping more comfortable.

I used this pumping bra from Amazon and it was great so I didn’t have to hold the flanges in place. I was still hands on while pumping to maximize output, but the pumping bra definitely helped. It’s not cute but it did the job. But it was annoying to take on and off since it’s not the type of bra I’d want to wear all day.

However, with Charles, I got this cuter Kindred Bravely pumping bra from my Amazon registry and it’s the BEST. It’s super soft and comfortable. You can easily sleep in it if you want and it comes in two sizes so it’s perfect for so many new moms. I shared the rest of my favorite nursing bras in this blog post.

7. Nipple Shields

I used the Lanisoh nipple shields every time I breastfed Thomas for the first few months, but Charles does not use them.

These can help if you have inverted nipples or latch problems that cause pain or bleeding. I wouldn’t plan to use these (because honestly they’re annoying) but it’s worth having a pack on hand in case you need them to troubleshoot challenges. I’d talk with a lactation consultant before you start using them, but know that they exist.

8. Water bottle with Straw

You will be VERY thirsty if you’re on a breastfeeding journey. Keep a water bottle filled at all times and sip throughout the day. I like this Simple Modern water bottle since it’s slim and lightweight. But I also really like the Owala since it has a straw-less option too (and I couldn’t use a straw for a while after my C-section).

You will likely want to supplement with electrolytes if you’re pumping and/or breastfeeding. I discovered LMNT electrolytes when my first son was 6 months old and it helped my thirst so much. I’m obsessed with them now. I also really like coconut water these days.

9. Earth Mama Nipple Butter

I love this Earth Mama Nipple Butter. Just trust me and order it.

10. Lactation Supplements

The best thing you can do for your supply is to remove milk more often through nursing or pumping. However, some supplements can help support your supply. I’ve been using the Legendairy Lactivist Organic Sunflower Lecithin to help with supply this time.

I also used these last time and will likely use them again at some point:

• Majka hydration powder
• Majka lactation booster
• Legendairy Liquid Gold

11. SNACKS!

I love Lexi’s lactation cookies, That’s It bars, RX bars, Go Macro bars, Lactation Cookie Bites, prunes, and oranges.

12. Pull down night down + button front PJs

You’re going to want pajamas that make nursing super early. My favorites right now are the Pima Ruffle Nightgown from LAKE and this pair of button front PJs from Joy Street.

13. Button-Down Tops

I love button downs even without considering nursing, but they do make nursing significantly easier when you want to look nice. This button down cardigan is from Amazon and looks much more expensive than it is. The fit is TTS but relaxed, which is a great option in terms of comfort. I also love that it’s striped which will distract from any milk stains. I also have a ton of nursing-friendly tops linked on LTK since everything I wear these days is nursing-friendly.

14. Nursing Friendly Dresses

Great for when I want to look nicer but need easy access. I shared all of my current favorite nursing-friendly dresses in this blog post.

15. Lactation Support from an IBCLC

Last but CERTAINLY not least: work with an IBCLC. One of the best things I did throughout my breastfeeding journey was establish a good relationship with two lactation consultants. Ideally, try to find International Board Certified Lactation Consultant® since they have more extensive training. I HIGHLY recommend Jessica Bowers with Growing Families Lactation if you’re local to Winston-Salem and the surrounding areas, but she also offers an online breastfeeding class.

If you have questions or need recommendations to troubleshoot, please leave a comment. I’ve dealt with lots of challenges along the way (clogged ducts, oversupply, undersupply, latch issues, timing challenges around running, sickness, you name it). I’m NOT an IBCLC but I’m happy to share my personal experience if it’s helpful!

If you breastfed your babies, what essentials would you recommend to a new mom?

The post My Breastfeeding Must-Haves with Baby #2 appeared first on TeriLyn Adams.

If you have little kids you’re shopping for this Christmas, these gift ideas are toddler (and mom) approved. They’re fun and not annoying.

However, creating a gift guide for kids is a little difficult because kids are so different, ages matter a lot for toys, and boys and girls may prefer different things. And since I only have a 3 year old, I felt like it made the most sense to create a gift guide for toddlers, since that’s what I have real experience with.

Gifts for Toddlers

Retrospec Walker Balance Bike

This little balance bike/scooter is still one of Thomas’ favorite toys. He’s used it for two years straight and it still fits him pretty well. I personally love the color options and how sturdy/well-made it is. He uses it inside most often, but it’s sturdy enough to go outside too. It’s is $50 and comes in 10 colors. I think gifts like this are always a big hit on Christmas because they can sit right under the tree, unwrapped, and ready to play with.

Pop Up Ball Pit

This pop up ball pit is another gift that’s super fun to leave unwrapped and ready to play with on Christmas morning. Unfortunately, the balls don’t come with this pit, so you’ll want to buy this set at the same time. But for $40 together, you’ve already got your “big gift” for Christmas covered. Thomas loves getting in here and playing with us in the basement. I do have to say, the balls get EVERYWHERE, so just be warned.

Magnatiles Magnetic Building Tiles

These magnetic building tiles are a huge hit in the Adams household. Not only are they fun to use with him, but I love getting to see his little mind world while he builds with these. This set comes with 70 pieces, so you will have plenty to play with. He’s had his set for a year and still plays with it almost daily.

Kindle Fire Tablet

I really love having a Kindle Fire on hand for when Thomas needs a little distraction/down time. While I try not to let him have much screen time, I do think the Kindle Fire is a great option for when he is using a screen. Amazon Kids has great (and easy to use) parental controls, and you can subscribe to Amazon Kids+ for tons of books, games, songs, etc. It has about 10 hours of charge, so I rarely have to remember to charge it, which is also nice. It’s twice as durable as the iPad mini, so that should be the #1 reason you do this instead of an iPad. And it’s way cheaper. It isn’t as intuitive as the iPad but you’ll quickly learn hw to navigate it.

Christmas Pajamas

While holiday pajamas aren’t likely going under the tree (since you’ll want them to have them all season!), they’re SUCH a fun way to get in the spirit with your littles. Thomas has starting caring which PJs he wears and usually picks them out each night, which is super cute. I always thought it was so cute that my sister-in-law gave my nieces and nephews new PJs on Christmas Eve – I want to implement that tradition!

We specifically love the brand Hanna Anderson and LAKE Pajamas. Hanna Andersson has a bunch of cute, festive prints. They use a flatlock seam on all of their PJs, which makes them super cozy for kids since some seams can irritate little ones.

LAKE is actually my favorite brand for my own pajamas, and there’s just nothing like them! The quality is unmatched and they use the softest pima cotton. I splurged and bought Thomas and I matching sets last year, and it made me so happy. His set ran a little small, so size up if you’re on the fence. Their PJs do shrink just a little so I always hang dry his to make them last longer.

Montessori Toddler Tower

This is the exact tower we have in our kitchen for Thomas! He likes standing in this to eat his meals, help me cook, or play at the counter. It’s nice that he can get in it himself now, and he’s less likely to fall since the back rail is at a safe height.

Personalized Kid’s Chair

Thomas loves sitting his own chair. I love that it’s soft and easy to move from room to room. I also LOVE this one which goes with the nursery we’re planning for baby #2.

The Nugget

The Nugget is a REALLY great investment for you playroom. It’s part furniture, part toy. It’s basically a play couch that’s made of 4 foam pieces that can be configured in a ton of different ways. Also, it’s super soft and squishy, so it makes a great place to plop down in our playroom, but Thomas also loves to climb all over it. He has to “go down the slide” every night before bed (usually about 50x).

Little Tikes Trampoline

I’m actually getting Thomas this little trampoline for his birthday next week. As much as I hate buying more toys, all my friends say it’s 100% worth it since their kids use it for years.

Play sink

Thomas LOVED his play sink for two straight years, with or without the water! We used it outside when it was warm out, and we put it in the bathtub in the winter. The dials are all turnable it encourages kinesthetic development, and he actually started drinking out a cup better after playing with the cups in this set, even empty! This was a huge hit around 1 year old, so if you have a little one around that age, snag this for Christmas.

Lovevery Play Kits

Thomas (and I) love these. Lovevery Play Kits are designed to be a subscription, and you get a new kit delivered every 3 months. What a great gift – new toys every three months that are catered to your child’s age! You can also purchase the playkits individually rather than the subscription but we LOVE the subscription.

The play kits have age appropriate, adorable toys in each box (but not too many toys, thank goodness), and they quality is really nice. It’s convenient and fun to get toys that are made for your child’s age, and to be surprised when the boxes come each month. This is a great gift suggestion for grandparents if they’re asking what to get their favorite grandkid!

Look how tiny Thomas was!

Play-Doh

What can I say? He’s obsessed with Play-Doh. Since he’s inevitably going to smash every color together in one giant ball anyway (every.time), I don’t get anything fancy.

Wooden Train Set

This train table set is the cutest EVER! I want to get this for Thomas this year. I don’t expect the train tracks to stay put on the table for long, but maybe he’ll like playing with them on the table as he gets older. He loves to play with that exact set at the Children’s Playhouse in Boone!

Kid’s Plastic Golf Set

If you follow me on Instagram, you know this was a hit in our house for a full year. Thomas isn’t quite as interested in golf right now as he once was, but if your little one loves it, this set is perfect and has everything you’d want.

Books

We loveee books in our house! Our favorites right now are from the website PaperPie. I love the books they sell and after buying a few from Amazon that were just so weird and poorly written, I will stick to this company!

This website is another good resource for grandparents. My friend Tracey Markland can help you shop.

FoxPrint Rocket Ship Tent

This is such a fun tent or fort for little boys or girls (two different designs!). I love the idea of reading books to Thomas in one of these. And the price is unbeatable. It would be cute to have to have it set up as surprise from Santa on Christmas morning. I think I’ll put this in Thomas’ room or playroom since those are the biggest rooms in our house!! (Spoiled much, kiddo?)

Keyboard Playmat

Even I want this keyboard mat! It’s huge so your kids use their feet to play each key. You can roll it up and store it easily too.

Children’s Museum Membership

Younger toddler’s won’t understand this on Christmas morning, but it’s the gift that keeps on giving! We have memberships at both Kaleideum Children’s Museum in Winston-Salem and The Children’s Playhouse in Boone and we ALL love going!! This is another great option for grandparents to give!

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Please drop any other ideas you have below!

The post Toddler Gift Guide (mom approved too) appeared first on TeriLyn Adams.

It wasn’t until a few years ago that I found out that not everyone got a visit from the Valentine Man. So I’ll explain.

On Valentine’s Day, sometime in the evening, the doorbell would ring and there would be goodies left on our doorstep for each kid with a note wishing us a happy love day. And it was signed, “The Valentine Man.” And as a kid, I was certain that all the goodies were really just for me and that I shouldn’t have to share with brothers.

A man flying with reindeer and a rabbit being smart enough to hide baskets was hard to believe. Too illogical and impractical. But a man who wanted to bring me a love note with chocolate? That I could buy into. Clearly, I was a bit of an egoist as a child.

I think the tradition originated with my grandfather (my mom’s father) since all my cousins and now their kids have the Valentine Man visit them. I only have one memory of my grandfather (he passed away when I was 4) but I love that this tradition carries on his memory!

It also makes me so happy to hear from blog readers who have since implemented this tradition with their families after I first blogged about it in 2011!

Our Valentine Man Tradition

If you’ve read my blog for a while, you probably know how much I love Valentine’s Day – even in my single years. And it doesn’t hurt that some of my favorite memories with Tommy are also on Valentine’s Day. He accidentally told me he loved me on our first Valentine’s Day together…only 3 months into dating.

You can read the whole story here, but in short, we didn’t do anything fancy that day. No nice dinner reservation or nice gifts, but Tommy did what he thought’d I love: Thai takeout from Harris Teeter (the best in Winston Salem, BTW), a bottle of wine, and a card. He nailed it. As he was about to pick up dinner, he said “I’ll be right back, I love you!” so casually that I didn’t know what to say. So, I said, “Uh okay! See you soon!”.

Obviously, the rest is history. And it’s one of my favorite stories ever, on my favorite holiday!

Even now as an adult and even though I live across the country from my mom (I’m in North Carolina and she’s in Utah), she still sends me a Valentine’s Day package. I mean, somehow the Valentine Man still finds me every year… his handwriting just looks eerily similar to my mom’s. Now that I’m an adult, I get fancy chocolate (she’s a bit of a chocolate connoisseur), cute kitchen towels and last year she included some little toys for Thomas!

In 2017, she sent a My Little Pony that looked JUST like the one I loved as a little girl.

I also found this photo from 2010 (yes, REALLY!).

Like I said, this tradition is long-standing.

Now that I’m a mom myself, I’m really excited to start the Valentine Man tradition in our house with Thomas. I hope he’ll grow to love it the same way I did as a kid. I’m working on making his Valentine’s Man basket right now, and I’m sharing some of my gift ideas for littles in this post.

If you need gift ideas for adults, I share my top picks for guys here and my top picks for the ladies here. (I also include some comfy, cozy and dressy outfits in this post!)

If you have a similar tradition in your family, let me know in the comments!

Happy Valentine’s Day!

My Favorite V-Day Finds

The post Our Valentine Man Tradition appeared first on TeriLyn Adams.

Any parent knows that having a new baby is exhausting. Some babies are born great sleepers. Our first son was not. He rarely slept more than 2 hours at a time and never napped more than 29 minutes (exactly 29 minutes), even as he got a little older. While it’s normal for newborns to wake up that often to eat, as they age, you can expect them to sleep longer stretches. But not our sweet babe. He just did not like to sleep unless he was being held (thankfully our second sleeps much better).

Before we had Thomas, we researched the best baby products on the market and added them to our baby registry.

I read lots of pregnancy books.

I read lots of newborn baby care books.

We hired a doula.

We packed our hospital bags.

I bought postpartum supplies.

I learned about breastfeeding.

We purchased strollers (the Thule and the Vista 2).

Like all parents, we wanted to be as prepared as possible. And since I was terrified in particular about lack of sleep, the SNOO Smart Sleeper Bassinet was the first thing we purchased. It’s one of the most highly rated products on the market for babies and multiple friends reached out to tell us to buy it as soon as they heard I was pregnant.

You may already be familiar with the SNOO, but in case you’re just starting your research, I’ll share an overview of what it is. In short, it’s designed to help with some of the 5 S’s (swaddle, side/stomach, shush, swing, suck) that parents can leverage to help babies sleep. It had so many great reviews, and it was very expensive, so it must be the right thing to get, right? For some, maybe. For us, nope. We HATED the SNOO.

The short story: We ended up getting the HALO Bassinet and love it. That’s what I recommend (I shared details on the HALO below).

Snoo Bassinet Review

In today’s post, I’m going to dive into the details of the SNOO Bassinet, talk about how to use and assemble it, and then talk about why we didn’t like it for Thomas. I’ve had many friends rave about it, so this is your reminder to do your own research and make your own decisions about what to purchase and use for your baby. Remember, what’s right for YOU may not be what’s right for US!

Okay, let’s get right to it.

The SNOO Bassinet was created by Dr. Harvey Karp, the author of Happiest Baby on the Block. It’s a smart bassinet that uses gentle side to side rocking motions and plays white noise to promote better sleep and self soothing for your baby. Unless the SNOO is in Weaning mode (more on that below), the motion is ALWAYS on. The SNOO comes with an app that lets you change the speed of the motion and the white noise sound. You must connect your Snoo to wifi in order to use the app.

Snoo Bassinet Specs

Dimensions

The SNOO measures 30 x 16 x 32 inches. It weighs 38lbs – so it’s not too clunky but also not small. I was able to carry it from room to room when we had overnight doulas, but you won’t want to move it around too often! The mattress and water resistant cover do come with the bassinet.

Attachable sleep sacks

All SNOOs have built-in hooks to attach a sleep sack. This prevents your little one from rolling in their sleep, as babies always need to be placed on their back to sleep. The SNOO is compatible only with their own brand of SNOO sleep sacks that swaddles the baby and then attaches to the sides of the bassinet. The SNOO will not turn on if the hooks aren’t engaged with a sleep sack.

5 levels of sound + motion

There are 5 options for white noise and the rocking motion so you can customize it for your baby’s sleep.

The rocking is horizontal. Hold your hand out flat in front of you with your palm facing down. Now bend at the wrist, right and left. That’s how to rocks. It doesn’t rock like a rocking chair.

Using the app, you also adjust the baseline noise and motion that it starts at when you turn it on, and you can also limit the motion so it doesn’t go above a certain level. You can also press the button on the SNOO to increase the motion without the app. Our doula used this feature when she stayed overnight.

Automatically hears crying and adjusts

This is the key distinguishing feature of the SNOO compared to other bassinets: the speed of motion and white noise adjusts based on your baby’s fussing. So, if the SNOO hears your baby crying, the motion gets faster and the white noise gets louder, automatically to soothe your baby.

You can also adjust the SNOO’s sensitivity to noise. Maybe you have a very quiet cryer – you can make the SNOO more sensitive to noise. Or maybe your baby is louder – you can make the SNOO less sensitive to noise.

The app will track stretches of sleep and when it was soothing your baby or when the SNOO was stopped. (This isn’t our log, but a screenshot my friend sent me. I wish Thomas slept that long of stretches when he was in it, ha!) It’s nice to have the recorded sleeping patterns in the app to reference.

SNOO app

You can control your SNOO remotely from the SNOO app which lets you pick the motion and noise for your baby. That’s also where you can restrict motion and adjust the baseline level (i.e. what speed it starts at).

Sleep consultant access

SNOO has sleep consultants that you’re able to access at any time. I called them one time after we’d had Thomas for a few weeks (more on that below) and they were incredibly helpful and provided lots of suggestions. But ultimately, that phone call should have been a red flag.

How To Use The Snoo Bassinet

0-3 Months

Many parents setup their shipment of SNOO for 1 week before baby arrives. We set ours up about a month beforehand (more on that below) and got it synced with our wifi and app, which was nice since it took a little fiddling. It would have been stressful to figure out the day he came home from the hospital!

We also limited our motion right away since since it seemed to upset him more. I also wasn’t comfortable with the motion, even though SNOO states it’s safe even for preemies who are much smaller than Thomas was. Yes, the SNOO will adjust automatically, but you know your baby best, which is why they allow customizations within the app.

3-6 Months

While this is around the time that some parents are in weaning mode, SNOO experts recommend waiting until at least 5 months. However, we took Thomas out of the Snoo at 4 months, as soon as he started to roll. The Snoo website says that it’s safe when kids start rolling because they’re strapped in but my friend’s pediatrician told her as soon as they roll they need to be out because they can get trapped upside down in the sack, and that the sack being strapped in doesn’t necessarily prevent rolling. I was also terrified of him rolling and the SNOO tipping over.

We never used the Weaning mode as a result since we went cold turkey from the SNOO to the crib, but the weaning mode means that the SNOO only turns on motion if it’s soothing, rather than the continuous motion that’s used in the normal mode.

How To Assemble The Snoo Bassinet

Step 1

Turn the sleeper upside down after taking the cover off. Insert the 4 legs into the bottom of the SNOO. Make sure the leg arrow matches the same color on the SNOO. Listen for a click and then tighten the bolts by hand.

Step 2

Find the leg that has a long plastic power cord holder. Pull that off and place aside. Open the box with the power adapter and connect the two pieces. Once connected, plug the cord into the socket on the base of the SNOO.

Step 3

Slip the bassinet over and plug the power cord into the wall. The power button should flash for a few seconds, and then light up white. Now you can reattach the power cord holder to the leg of the SNOO and put the cord in it to remove tripping hazards. At this point, you can put the SNOO fitted sheet on.

Step 4

If your baby has reflux or a stuffy nose, SNOO sells leg lifters can be attached to the feet of the legs closet to babies head to add a slight incline. However, this is NOT a safe sleep practice.

Step 5

Download the SNOO app and follow the prompts to sync it to your SNOO. There is a barcode underneath the bassinet to connect it to your app and then sync it to your wifi. You CAN use the SNOO without wifi by manually turning it on, but you cannot adjust it from the app if it’s not synced to your wifi.

Is the Snoo Worth It?

Okay, now for the moment of truth: Is the SNOO worth it? No, not for us. The SNOO simply didn’t work for our baby. I was terrified of Thomas rolling in the middle of the night and my husband was uncomfortable with swaddling correctly at first, so the features of it gave both of us peace of mind. And, I was so scared of not sleeping since I really struggle without sleep and it triggers my anxiety. So I was desperate for anything to help with sleep.

The first few weeks, we figured Thomas was just being a newborn and not sleeping well and the SNOO couldn’t do much. But, after about two months without more than 1-2 hour stretches in the SNOO, my husband and I HATED it. We eventually sold the SNOO when Thomas was five months old and we were very ready to bid it good riddance.

I distinctly remember asking friends if it took a while for the SNOO to “work” since it seemed to upset Thomas far more than soothe him. I even called the SNOO customer support line to ask for their help since it didn’t seem to help Thomas. They suggested adjusting the sensitivity so it didn’t increase speed and sound as much and to limit the motion. This is what should have been a red flag… they were telling me to limit the SNOO’s capabilities because what it was designed to do upset my baby. His best naps were if he happened to fall asleep without motion. And when I started using a traditional white noise machine in his room, he slept better. I did too – the pitch of the white noise built into the SNOO (which is supposed to mimic the womb) was super irritating.

Also, let’s consider the cost: It’s $1695!

There are options to rent from SNOO for $159 a month, and this would be a much better option, in my opinion. However, if the SNOO works for your family and your babies, it could be worth buying if you plan to have multiple kids. But it’s easy to re-sell if not. (You may also consider buying a second-hand Snoo.)

They do have a 30-day return window if you buy it, but it’s 30 days from when it’s delivered. So if your baby is late (mine was two weeks late), that eats into half of the trial period. The Snoo Rental Program would have been a much better investment for us.

I also think they have tricky marketing to get you to spend more money:

• It only works with THEIR sleep sacks, which aren’t designed to grow with your baby, like other swaddles. So, they rapidly outgrow them, forcing you to buy more. We had to buy six different sleep sacks (two in each size, Small, Medium, Large) before Thomas was out of the SNOO.
• They sell SNOO leg lifters to incline the bassinet, which is NOT safe sleep practice, but parents will try anything when they’re sleep deprived.
• If you choose to rent, you pay for your first month of the rental AND a cleaning and reconditioning fee upfront. The return is NOT free once you’re finished with it, which is worth noting.

My Bassinet Recommendation: The HALO

When I got pregnant with my second, the first thing I ordered was the HALO Bassinet. The HALO was better for us for a lot of reasons.

• I liked the HALO bassinet because it was very stable and the height was adjustable so it can go over the bed if you want the feeling of co-sleeping.
• The whole sleeping area also swivels, making it easy to get to your baby in the middle of the night without standing up (especially helpful if you have a c-section). We never did that with Charles, but it’s a major selling point for most people.
• One side also pushes down to easily get your baby in the middle of the night (I also didn’t use this feature since it didn’t seem convenient, but many love it).

However, the Halo IS big, and it’s not easy to move, but the top detaches and lays flat if you want to take just that somewhere.

Similar to the SNOO, some HALO models have built-in motion (simple vibration) and white noise. We never used those features because we didn’t want anything remotely related to the SNOO.

HALO Specifications

The HALO bassinet dimensions are 32″L x 32″W x 46″H. It weighs 42.88 lbs, which is a bit heavier than the SNOO. It’s definitely not as aesthetically pleasing as the SNOO, and the feet feel clunkier, but knowing how safe and sturdy it is gave me peace of mind. The mattress pad is included with your HALO purchase.

We loved the HALO for our second baby, and it’s actually what our sleep consultant recommends.

You can order the HALO from a ton of places. It’s usually cheapest at Amazon or Target.

• Halo at Amazon
• Halo at Pottery Barn
• Halo at Target
• Buy directly from HALO

Bottom Line

I want to mention a few things I did like about the SNOO.

Number one: it’s beautiful. I love the minimal design and the wood detailing. It was far prettier than other bassinets we considered (and yes, prettier than the HALO)!

We also loved that it strapped Thomas in on his back so that he couldn’t roll, which we were nervous about even when he was tiny. That gave me peace of mind.

As we learned, the Snoo sack made swaddling easier.

And, like I mentioned, it was really easy to sell. We had multiple people reach out within one hour of posting it to sell it. I almost felt bad selling it to another mom since I hated it so much. But again, what works for me may not work for them.

But the bottom line? You don’t NEED the SNOO. It’s not a game-changer. I wonder if people who swear by it had good sleepers to begin with and they would have been champion sleepers with or without the SNOO. So if you can’t afford it, don’t fret. You’ll be just fine without it. Better off, I’d argue.

In retrospect, I’m not comfortable with the SNOO from a safety perspective. And that’s what really matters. The AAP does not recommend any sleep products that require restraining a baby, especially if the product also rocks, such as the SNOO.

If you’ve used the SNOO, I’d love to know your thoughts on it. Your experience will help others considering it since some people absolutely love it!

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Although I’ve run for 20+ years, getting out the house to run is much more of an ordeal now that I’m a mom, especially if Thomas is coming along. I have to consider all sorts of things like what time is best for us to run around his eating and sleeping schedules; the weather (too hot? too cold? rainy? windy?); if I need water or snacks for me and/or him; I have to think about my running mechanics; and, most importantly, I have to make sure Thomas is safe and happy. Granted, it’s easier now that he’s a little older, but in those earlier months of running with him, it required a TON of prep.

Running, whether solo or with Thomas in the stroller, is great for my mental health, and was especially helpful when I was able to run again postpartum. Plus, it really is so efficient to get a workout in and get us both some time outside by taking him in the stroller. So even if it takes some prep work and though, it’s worth sorting through all the logistics. Today I’m sharing my tips for how to run with a baby because, as you can imagine or already know, running with a baby and a stroller is very different. It’s challenging but it can also be a lot of fun!

Remember, this post is not intended to serve as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. I’m just sharing my experience for helpful purposes only. (Always check with YOUR doctor!)

How to Run with a Baby

1. Check with your pediatrician 

First, make sure you check with your pediatrician before you start running with your baby. Most doctors will tell you to wait until at least 6 months and your little one has good head control. I think Thomas was around 7 months before I took him out for his first stroller run. And I kept it nice and short just so he could get used to it. Thankfully, he loved it! And so did I!

2. Check with your pelvic floor specialist

I would really encourage you to check with a pelvic floor specialist to see if it’s okay to start running, especially if you’re running within a year of giving birth, and especially if you plan to run with a stroller. It’s one thing to get cleared for running, but it’s another thing to be cleared to run while pushing a stroller. Some PTs will say that running with a stroller is great since it will help stabilize your core, while others will say it can create more problems. It really depends on your personal situation and health. But the bottom line is to make sure you work with a pelvic floor PT.

3. Use a running-specific stroller

When we were doing research on running strollers, we landed on the Thule Urban Glide. A jogging stroller – vs. your everyday stroller – is much easier to push and typically has better suspension to create a comfortable ride for you and your little one.

Jogging strollers are also the safest option for your baby. Our Thule has a padded 5-point harness and reflective rims on the canopy and on all the wheels. It also has an integrated hand brake to provide speed control when running downhill. And a wrist strap so I never lose control of the stroller. And, it’s simply more comfortable to run with given the suspension and ergonomic handlebar. As much as we love our regular stroller, it is NOT the best option for running.

Quick note on the Thule: I rented a different, more well-known brand of jogging strollers, a BOB, from BabyQuip when I flew to Utah with Thomas and the Thule was MUCH better. Read my full review of the Thule here.

4. Be intentional with your route 

I can’t run my usual running route if I’m taking Thomas along. There is way too much traffic and a few sections where there isn’t a sidewalk and the road is too busy. So, I have specific routes I run with him or I drive to run with the stroller to a flat trail or a quieter spot. Plus, my normal route is HILLY and a break from that can be nice, especially if I’m pushing the stroller. If you are stuck with hills, just know that you will likely run a slower pace and may need to walk more when you’re running with the stroller. Heck, that’s true even if it’s a flat route. And that’s okay!

5. Experiment with different hand placement

Running with a jogging stroller is no joke. My most comfortable hand placement is to hold the stroller with one arm (usually my right) and swing my left arm, but I try to switch which hand is on the stroller every so often since it does cause some strain and I want to minimize muscle imbalances as much as possible. Switching arms helps a LOT. If I’m going downhill, I ALWAYS loop my hand through the wrist strap (which is positioned on the left side) so I don’t ever lose control of the stroller. I also keep my hand on the brake (which is integrated into the handlebar on the Thule) when running downhill.

When I’m running up hill, I like to put both hands on the stroller, since I seem to get more power this way. Some of my friends disagree and use one hand so they get power from swinging their other arm, so try it out and see which works best for you. There’s no right or wrong way. Be sure to engage your glutes to help you up hills!

6. Lock the front wheel

Most jogging strollers will have the option to lock the front wheel in place or they have a fixed front wheel. If you’re running a straight route (e.g. a greenway), this can be a great option for easier maneuverability. Since most my routes have lots of turns, I almost never have mine locked in place since it’s too difficult to maneuver it with it locked. But, if you are running a route with lots of bumps, always lock the front wheel since it will prevent the stroller from turning suddenly, causing you and your little one to crash or fall.

7. Be flexible with your training plan

If you can only fit in runs when you’re running with a stroller, it may not be the time to try to PR in the marathon. Trying to hit specific paces or do a nuanced workout with lots of repeats can be difficult, if not impossible, with the stroller. If you have big running goals but aren’t sure how to fit stroller runs into your training, consider working with a professional run coach, ideally a USATF certified running coach who has experience working with postpartum runners.

Remember that you will be slower with the stroller and it will most likely feel harder. But hey, think how easy it will feel on the days you don’t have the stroller! I don’t worry about my pace at all on stroller run days. I just enjoy the miles listening to Thomas babble. He’s certainly the cutest running buddy I’ve ever had!

8. Prepare for the weather

Make sure to prepare for the weather depending on if it’s hot or cold outside. If you’re running in the cold, make sure to think through keeping your baby warm. Babies aren’t warming up like we are on runs. So they need to be tucked in with extra clothing/cozy layers – think a hat, jacket, booties and a blanket (on top of their regular outfit!). On hot days, make sure to check on your baby to make sure he or she isn’t overheating. Try to run early to avoid the highest temperatures of the day and pick a shady route. Pack water for you and your child. And if you’ll be gone for a while, pack snacks, diapers/wipes, a change of clothes and toys.

It’s always a good idea to check the radar before hitting the road too, since my worst fear is getting caught in a thunderstorm with Thomas.

9. Factor in the time of day

Some people try to run during naptime so their baby sleeps in the stroller. Thomas does NOT sleep in strollers — never has — so I run right after he eats in the morning so he’s full, happy, and alert. But not too close to his nap where he starts to get fussy. It all depends on your baby and what works best!

In the summer, try to run before 11 or after 3 to avoid the highest temperatures of the day and pick a shady route. In the winter, try to run a little later to give it time to warm up so your little one can be comfortable.

If your route has a lot of cars, try to run during off times. Running with a stroller during rush hour may not only be frustrating, but it can also be dangerous with more vehicle encounters.

If you typically run in the dark, really think through a safe route for you and your kiddo — or avoid running in the dark with the stroller entirely. If it’s your only option, avoid highly trafficked roads. Make sure the route is VERY well lit so you don’t trip or run the stroller over something. And make sure both you and the stroller have plenty of visibility. I shared my favorite reflective and lighting gear in this post.

And remember, safety trumps all. If you need to skip a run due to the weather or time of day, you’ll be fine! Just run another day when things will work out better.

10. Be safe

On the safety note…. remember to follow the regular safety precautions you would if you’re running alone. But use even more precautions when you’re taking along such precious cargo. Tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back. Run with your phone in case of an emergency (or in case of super cute kiddo pics that need to happen ). And if it makes you feel more comfortable, run with mace (I do). The stroller makes it easy to take all of that along!

The bottom line: Have fun and be safe!

Don’t worry about your pace, and have a great time. I stop every 5 minutes or so to check on Thomas to make sure he’s okay. And I always love hearing him babbling while we run. Like I said at the beginning of this post, running with Thomas has become one of my favorite things ever. I’m so thankful that something I loved so much before having Thomas has become even more special to me.

If you’ve been running with a stroller for a while, I’d love to know any other tips you have as a mother runner! Leave a comment below so we can all benefit from your experience! 

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