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The best baby gear
The latest gear for your budget to get you and your baby strolling, rocking, swinging — and then (hopefully) sleeping through the night.
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Baby gear guide
From car seats to strollers, monitors to breast pumps, we've got you covered for the best baby gear around to fit your budget.
Tip to remember: Love something you see but don't have the budget? Take a look at last year's models instead: Often they'll still be on shelves and will be easier on your pocketbook.
A version of this article appeared in our October 2012 issue with the headline “Baby Gear Guide,” pp. 101-108. -
The First Years True Fit Recline
This convertible car seat has got a removable headrest for kids who are still rear facing. And it's easy to adjust the harness without having to rethread straps.
It was also awarded a five-star ease-of-use rating for simple installation.Where to Buy?
The First Years, $200
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Peg-Pérogo PV Convertible SIP 5-65
This convertible car seat has side impact protection that adjusts to 10 positions and shock-absorbing foam for reducing impact in an accident. It also includes special removable cushion for infants.
Where to Buy?
Peg-Pérego, $350
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Celk Foonf
Installing this convertible car seat is easy with its rigid-latch system. Crumple-zone technology can reduce the force in a frontal collision by up to 40 percent.
Where to Buy?
Clek, $449
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Jolly Jumper Moses Basket and Stand
A wooden stand provides a secure base for your bassinet so you can rock your babe to sleep.
Where to Buy?
Jolly Jumper, Basket, $65, Stand, $40
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Carter's Cradle Me Soothing Bassinet
Soft sounds and vibrations lull little ones to sleep. Comes with a large undercarriage basket.
Wheels make this bassinet portable, while the locking casters keep babies safe.Where to Buy?
Canabee Baby, $180
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Monte Design Nanna Bassinet
This bassinet boats a modern look with a sleek wooden stand and machine-washable basket.
Where to Buy?
Monte Design, $395
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Evenflo Portable Babysuite 300
A fun play yard that is easy to move, this one has a reversible bassinet/changer. The removable mat can be used as a playmat.
Where to Buy?
Evenflo, $130
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Bright Starts Ingenuity Washable Playard Premiere
The fabric of this pack 'n' play zips off in 30 seconds for easy laundering. Includes a reversible bassinet/changer.
Where to Buy?
Bright Starts, $220
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4moms The Breeze
With its hip design, this cool portable playpen features a one-step open and close, a bassinet, changing pad and a travel pack.
Where to Buy?
4moms, $330
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Quinny Zapp Xtra
You can't go wrong with this single stroller, which offers three forward-facing positions and two rear-facing positions. Multiple recline settings.
Where to Buy?
Quinny, $300
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Peg-Pérego Book
Easy to close, this single stroller stands upright when folded. The backrest reclines in five positions and the leg rest adjusts to two positions.
Where to Buy?
Peg-Pérego, $430
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UPPAbaby Cruz
This compact single stroller has a reversible seat, telescoping handle, a large basket and one-step fold. Optional infant car seat adapter available.
Find out how you can win one of these strollers at the end of this gallery!Where to Buy?
UPPAbaby, $500
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Graco Ready2Grow Stand & Ride
Two infant car seats fit back to back on this double stroller that can be reconfigured in 12 ways. Simple one-handed fold.
Remove the rear seat so bigger kids can use the stand to hop on and off.Where to Buy?
Graco, $300
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Britax B-Agile Double Stroller
You can recline each seat to any angle you like. It has ample storage, yet fits through standard doorways. Can hold one infant car seat.
Where to Buy?
Britax, $500
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Bugaboo Donkey Duo
The first convertible mono-duo double stroller gives you the flexibility you need. Use it with two infants or adjust for your baby and toddler.
Where to Buy?
Bugaboo, $1,500
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Guzzie + Guss 106 Sandpiper
Weighing in at about 10 pounds, this lightweight umbrella stroller doesn't skimp: recline for a snooze or adjust the footrest to accommodate growing kids.
Where to Buy?
Guzzie + Guss, $150
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Maclaren Globetrotter
An extra-large hood provides maximum sun coverage, and a rain cover is included with purchase. It also features multiple recline positions.
Where to Buy?
Maclaren, $190
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Bumbleride Flite
This lightweight, easy-to-manoeuvre umbrella stroller is for infancy and up. A reclining footrest, adjustable backrest and SPF 45 canopy keeps kids comfy.
This stroller is car seat compatible, too — plus the adapter is included!Where to Buy?
Bumbleride, $290
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Mamas and Papas Juice
Remove the tray and pull this high chair up to the table so little ones can join the meal. Kids will like the soft moulded chair and it's a cinch to assemble.
It also converts into a junior chair so kids can use it up to age five.Where to Buy?
Mamas and Papas, $150
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Peg-Pérego Siesta
This full-recline high chair allows you to use it from birth without worry. The rear-mounted rubber storage net can hold books and toys.
Where to Buy?
Peg-Pérego, $300
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Babybjörn High Chair
The curved backrest provides support. Kids up to age three can use this chair with easy adjustments. Folds to just 26 centimetres wide.
Where to Buy?
Babybjörn, $340
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Fisher-Price Discover 'n' Grow Cradle and Swing
Swing side-to-side or front-to-back at six speeds. Seat pad is machine washable. Plays eight songs.
It's perfect for small spaces. It folds so you can keep it anywhere.Where to Buy?
Fisher-Price, $180
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Graco Sweet Snuggle
This swing has multiple seating and recline positions, ensuring comfort while listening to 10 songs or five nature sounds. Plug-in to save batteries.
Where to Buy?
Graco, $190
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4moms Mamaroo
Imitates the movements that babies love (like rocking and swaying), while playing music from your MP3 device. Seat reclines to any position.
Where to Buy?
4moms, $250
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Safety 1st Pop Up Tub
Foam provides a soft surface for babies. Flattens for storage or overnight trips. Fits in a standard-sized sink or can be placed in your bathtub.
Where to Buy?
Safety 1st, $20
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Hoppop Batu
Two handles make this sleek tub easy to carry around. It's ideal for kids who can sit up and want to play, and helps parents stay close.
Insulated sides help maintain the water's temperature.Where to Buy?
Hoppop, $50
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Boon Naked
With two stages (for newborn and toddler), this tub not only reclines and expands, you can also collapse it when you're done with bath time.
Where to Buy?
Boon, $70
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Vtech Dect 6.0
Even with a 1,000-foot range, you'll have no interference; a light and vibration notification tells you if there is noise in the room.
Where to Buy?
Vtech, $50
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The First Years Crisp and Clear View Digital Video Monitor
The compact size provides portability and night vision means you can get some shut-eye.
Where to Buy?
The First Years, $100
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Angelcare AC1100
A camera and sensor pad provide sound, picture and motion updates. Two-way communication lets you comfort your baby without leaving your bed.
Where to Buy?
Angelcare, $320
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Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Manual Breast Pump System
Built to mimic a baby's suckle; lightweight and easy to transport. Large silicone cup fits all sizes.
Where to Buy?
Tommee Tippee, $50
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Ameda Purely Yours Ultra Breast Pump
Custom control option allows up to 32 speed and suction combinations. Faux leather tote included.
Where to Buy?
Ameda, $330
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Medela Freestyle
Double electric pump that weighs less than one pound and tracks each session. Imitates the simulation and expression phases of baby's nursing.
If you're a multi-tasker, you'll love this hands-free pump.Where to Buy?
Medela, $450
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AuntNat says ....
There so much stuff available out there ..... if it's your first baby being able to read advice and suggestions from others in the forum is really helpful in deciding what to get.
Super-McMom says ....
My sister reminded me that sometimes old gear is still very relevan today .... that a rocking or gliding chair is really wonderful wehn taking care or soothing baby.
Guest_176831 says ....
The best gear I've seen are Internet cameras and baby monitors ... it really helps family and friends easily share the experience of the new baby no matter where they are.
Guest_227667 says ....
We just brought our first home from the hospital today. While we've gotten a lot of gear I'm just starting to realize how much more we need to get.
extendashop says ....
My baby carrier saved the day for me because I could hold my babies when they were fussy and they seemed to settle quicker.
Guest_269318 says ....
My Medela breast pump was my saving grave. Alot of late nights and I couldn't imagine doing it manually!
Guest_236148 says ....
My stroller, but need a new one the second time around.
corey (not verified) says ....
Since our child hasn't arrived yet (boy due Jan 20th!), I would have to say that I've relied on my beautiful and amazing wife to be the most important piece of baby "gear" we have so far. :)
andybaz says ....
The jolly jumper was the fave for my children!
Robyn Duke (not verified) says ....
We always used the jolly jumper and the Baby Einstein entertainer!!!
shlyeung says ....
I love the stroller. My daughter use it the most.
Meagan Rice (not verified) says ....
We love our jolly jumper! My daughter didn't like being left to play much so the only way I could get anything done was to put her in her jolly jumper beside me in the kitchen. She loves it!
sueplay says ....
Umbrella stroller was the best.
sarahandjm says ....
I loved the swing, my second baby was pretty fussy, but the swing put him right to sleep!
Jenni Bridger (not verified) says ....
I would say..my 2 strollers, and the Jolly Jumper. I have a smaller umbrella stroller for shopping and small places. My large 3 wheeled stroller for walks and hikes in the woods. Both are great for different reasons. The Jolly Jumper, my son loved!! He would have stayed in there for hours if I let him.
Chantelle Lavalle (not verified) says ....
My stroller and my baby carrier. The baby carrier helped with my son when it was time to clean and do laundry and he needed to be held. The stroller was heaven for walks to put him to sleep and it reclined so he can nap right in there.
Anonymous says ....
My stroller and my baby carrier. The baby carrier helped with my son when it was time to clean and do laundry and he needed to be held. The stroller was heaven for walks to put him to sleep and it reclined so he can nap right in there.
kdandmg@yahoo.ca says ....
a good carrier and a bouncy chair, especially if you have more than one child and need to chase after the first!
Janet Cressman (not verified) says ....
i am not a mom yet but when i become one a good stroller is a key item on my list, i love to walk/jog and want to be able to continue that after a baby comes!
suzieq573@hotma... says ....
I FOUND ANYTHING THAT SOOTHED MY BABY, MUSIC, SWING, A WALK IN THE STROLLER, AND ALSO A MOTHERS TOUCH AND WORDS, BUT A BATH WAS ALWAYS GOOD THEY LOVED THE WARM WATER AND IT WAS SO CALMING FOR BOTH BABY AND MOM.
chippy2 says ....
We love to travel, whenever we can a good stroller is the best accessory one can have
TheLuckiestMommy says ....
We found the simplest things were our 'must haves'. We loved our Bink-Link pacifier clips (we didn't lose a single soother after we started using these), our Wee Go glass baby bottles (chemical-free, dishwasher safe and stylish) and our Munchkin formula dispensers (we are a family on the go!) I love how every Mom has a different favourite!
Adina (not verified) says ....
fisher price newborn rock n play
Guest_303837 says ....
I loved my baby carrier (Ergo). It helped me get out of the house, nurse my baby and get her to sleep. I suspect a great stroller could have helped me too.
Raegan (not verified) says ....
I loved the Bjorne sport carrier for my colicky son. He was comforted and I could get a bit done.
jello707 says ....
The swing/chair helped me the most. I was then able to get things done quicker, so I could spend more time playing with him.
Guest_312128 says ....
I couldn't live without my Medela breast pump. If I didn't have it, I would have had many many more sleepless nights.
Guest_259514 says ....
the baby monitor or my jogging stroller were the best things to have as a first time mom. The stroller allowed me to get out a jog, safely and loved having that time with him.
Guest_153951 says ....
We love our UppaVista stroller and the versatility it allows, having options and a bassinet that attaches has made life a little easier. As well my Medela dual pump...what a life saver :-)
Guest_301476 says ....
I didn't have a great stroller with my older kids, and I splurged on my third child (I bought a used bugaboo) and wow! is it ever great to have a stroller that folds easily, can be used as a bassinet when traveling and has an adjustable handle for people of varying heights - my husband, grandma and I can all use the stroller comfortably.
Brandie (not verified) says ....
When they're really little, I found I didn't need as much as I thought. A baby carrier (I'm an ergo fan), a good nursing tank top, and a stroller that doubles as a bassinet are great. Of course, the best 'gear' is two loving arms (like a family member or friend) while Mamma takes a shower!
drjess says ....
We are expecting our first baby. My list is a comfortable baby carrier, a good stroller/carriage and a crib.
LaineyJ says ....
We are using a Graco swing and a Fisher Price bouncy chair. She loves playing in both!
Guest_359278 says ....
I relied on my baby Bjorn carrier and my Fisher Price Baby Bouncy Seat. They were lifesavers!
frisbeemom says ....
I relied on a back baby carrier that wrapped around me. I don't know the name because it came from Korea, and it's a cross between the sling and back pack. All four of my babies loved it, and would fall asleep in minutes, allowing me to clean, cook, eat, and whatever else. If I could market it here, I would in an instant.
Candice (not verified) says ....
I relied on my bugaboo Stroller Bassinett. I placed it beside my bed and it served my newborns sleeping needs for 4 months.
I didn't have to buy a whole separate bassinett.
Flymom says ....
The Ergo baby carrier is wonderful!
Shelley Jarosz (not verified) says ....
I relied on the Exersaucer the most. It allowed me to keep my hands free to fold laundry, wash dishes, etc. (all the fun stuff!!) while keeping my daughter occupied and moving around.
Guest_269083 says ....
We relied the most on our graco carry on the most :)
Mummy2T says ....
Our favourite item to use was the Mama Kangaroo when he was little, although now that he is older the most practical piece is our evenflo high chair!
chyld says ....
Baby Bouncer
Cheryl Almas (not verified) says ....
My grandson loves the bouncy chair. When my son's were young I had a bouncy chair for them and they loved it.
Guest_360811 says ....
I always used the Mommy hook. I went everywhere with my son and stroller. It allowed me to accommodate the extra shopping bags :)
Janice Ellis (not verified) says ....
My grandchildren loved the bouncy chair.
Guest_304660 says ....
I relied on the swing the most during the first few months, After my daughter would wake up for a feeding she would fall back asleep in her swing. It gave me some extra shut eye that was very much needed.