Preparing for a second (or third) baby can feel a lot less daunting than the first time around. You likely feel confident in products and strategies that worked well the first time, that you plan to use again. But you might be wondering what new items could be helpful as your grow your family – or curious about new developments on the baby market.
Follow the tips below to help think through what you might buy, replace, or register for when expecting baby #2.
Get Rid of Any Recalled Items
If it’s been 2-3 years since your last newborn experience, it is important to know that some products and safety guidelines have changed. In fact, 2022 saw the largest number of child-related product recalls in the last decade. For awareness, below are some of the most popular recalled products in recent years:
- Inclined Sleepers – Banned by the expansion of the Safe Sleep for Babies Act in 2023.
- Crib Bumpers – Banned by the expansion of the Safe Sleep for Babies Act in 2023.
- Newborn Loungers – The Boppy Newborn Lounger was recalled in 2021 and CPSC issued a warning to immediately discontinue use of the DockATot Deluxe+ in 2022.
- 4Moms Swings/Rockers – Over 2 million MamaRoo Swing version 1.0 and 4.0 and RockaRoo Rockers were recalled in 2022.
- Baby Shark Bath Toys – 7.5 million toys from the brand Zuru were recalled in 2023.
- Rock n Play Sleepers – Fisher Price re-issued a recall of this product in 2023.
Additionally, popular products like the Halo Bassinest Flex and Baby Brezza Formula Maker have not been recalled, but have been investigated. You can read more about these investigations here and here to help your family make informed decisions on these products.
Please note the items listed above is NOT a comprehensive list. To check your full inventory of baby items, access the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to search past recalls.
Invest in More Support Instead of More Stuff
Many first-time parents learn how easy it is to accumulate more stuff than you will actually need or use. For your second baby, consider prioritizing hands-on support instead of more stuff, by registering or saving for professional help. Types of support can include:
- Birth or postpartum doula support
- Housekeeping support during the first weeks postpartum
- Meal prep or meal delivery services
- Pre- and post-natal consultations with a lactation professional
- Extra babysitting or childcare hours
Prioritize a Shortlist of New Items
Of course, there are some net-new things to buy when welcoming an additional baby. A shortlist of these items can include:
- Restocked newborn items such as diapers, wipes, and bath supplies
- An upgraded or larger diaper bag that can fit enough stuff for multiple kids
- A second baby monitor for multiple cribs or bedrooms
- A new baby carrier to help keep your hands free
- A way to get out-and-about with multiples, such as a double stroller or a stroller wagon
- It is also a good idea to replace plastic items – such as silicone bottle nipples and plastic baby bottles and dishes – between babies since these items tend to get a lot of wear and tear.
Keep in mind that you don’t have to purchase all of these items before baby #2 arrives. It is ok to wait and see what you need, as the experience of parenting multiples unfolds.
