Budget-Friendly Baby Guide: Affordable Baby Products That Make Parenthood Easier

Mar 27, 2025 | Product Guide

Budget-Friendly Baby Guide: Affordable Baby Products That Make Parenthood Easier

New babies bring so much love and excitement, but those tiny bundles of joy tend to rack up big expenses. Having welcomed more than a few little ones in the past 5 years, we’ve got some experience caring for babies on a budget. If baby registries and seemingly endless lists of must-haves are making you dizzy, bookmark this page to keep handy our top picks for affordable baby products that can help ease your transition into life with a new baby.

Every baby is different, and while they’re all equally adorable, items that work for some may not work for others. Consider creating baby registries with retailers like Amazon or BabyList that offer swag bags or welcome boxes. These often include coupons and product samples you can use to offset costs or try items before committing to larger purchases. Buying gently used clothing at local children’s thrift stores has been one of our biggest cost-saving measures for each of our little ones, especially as they grow so fast in the early years. It also allows us to allocate more funds to other items we prefer to buy new or can’t get second-hand.

Medela Harmony Manual Breast Pump

This manual breast pump is designed for comfort and efficiency, allowing moms to express milk conveniently without the need for an electric pump. It’s a cost-effective solution for breastfeeding mothers that doesn’t require batteries or an outlet, so it can be used just about anywhere.

Speaking of pumps, if you think you may breastfeed, be sure to look into any health insurance benefits that could help you purchase a new breast pump at a reduced cost.

Amazon Elements Baby Wipes, Sensitive, 810 Count

These gentle, sensitive wipes are perfect for your baby’s delicate skin. With a bulk count of 810, they offer long-lasting use at an affordable price. From newborn blowouts to quick clean ups, baby wipes are one of those essentials you’ll use for years to come, so it may be worth it to stock up.

Pampers Swaddlers Diapers – Size 1, 198 Count

Known for their softness and reliability, Pampers Swaddlers provide excellent protection for newborns. And if no one has mentioned it… newborns go through A LOT of diapers. Consider buying in bulk in a few different sizes if it makes sense for your budget.

YI Pro 2K Home Security Camera, 2-Pack

If you just can’t get enough of staring at that sweet baby face, these indoor cameras offer smart detection features and compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant so you can monitor your baby’s room without investing in a specialized baby monitor.

Dr. Brown’s Natural Flow Anti-Colic Options+ Baby Bottles, 8 oz, 2-Pack

Designed to reduce colic and gas, these bottles are a popular pick among parents. The 2-pack offers great value for high-quality feeding essentials.

OCCObaby Clinical Digital Baby Thermometer

This quick and accurate thermometer is a sick day essential for monitoring your baby’s temperature. Its flexible tip and waterproof design make it suitable for use as your baby grows.

Johnson’s Baby Head to Toe Baby Bath Starter Kit

This hypoallergenic set includes wash and shampoo for your baby’s sensitive skin and hair for gentle cleansing during bath time.

Safety 1st Sleepy Baby Nail Clipper

Clipping baby’s nails can be nerve wracking at first, especially when they’re so wiggly. The Sleepy Baby Nail Clipper from Safety 1st has a small, built-in light that allows parents to trim nails accurately, even in dimly lit spaces.

Lovely Care 12 Pack Muslin Burp Cloths

A stack of soft burp cloths is a versatile nursery essential. The natural muslin cotton burp cloths from Lovely Care come in a convenient 12 pack so you can keep a few in different spaces around your home or in your diaper bag.

Angelcare Baby Bath Support

Bath time is bonding time with your little one, and the Baby Bath Support from Angelcare keeps your baby supported while you bathe them until they reach 6 months of age or 20 pounds. The bath support dries quickly and is easy to store making cleanup simple (which leaves more time for snuggles!)

Assorted Onesies Brand Bodysuits

Babies love to feel cozy and dressing them in soft, comfortable basics like bodysuits will quickly become part of your daily routine. Solid colors are easy to mix and match with other clothing items and this multipack from Onesies brand ensures you can keep a few extra on hand for unexpected wardrobe changes.

Hatch Rest Baby Sound Machine

Sleep is precious during the early days and creating sleep routines, even simple ones, can bring comfort to you and your baby. The Hatch Rest Baby Sound Machine provides various options for calming sounds, night lights, and more that can be controlled from the company’s mobile app via bluetooth connection.

HALO 100% Cotton Sleepsack Swaddle

Safe sleep practices are critical to baby’s safety and your peace of mind. This cozy sleepsack swaddle from HALO will become a naptime and bedtime favorite that can be adapted to your baby as their needs change.

Aquaphor Baby Healing Ointment

Newborns require a lot of diaper changes, and because of their super sensitive skin, diaper rash and other skin irritation can occur quickly. Aquaphor’s Baby Healing Ointment helps heal these issues quickly to soothe your little one and prevent further irritation.

Frida Baby NoseFrida SnotSucker for Baby

Yes, you read that right. A Snot Sucker! One of our favorite items for congested babies is the SnotSucker from Friday Baby. Using disposable filters, you’re able to gently, yet effectively clear their tiny noses for welcomed relief and easier breathing.

MAM Original Start Matte Newborn Baby Pacifier

The MAM Original Start pacifiers help soothe fussy infants with parent-preferred features like a ventilation shield and self-sterilizing case. Toss an extra in your bag, stroller, or bedside table and you’ll never be far from one when you need it.

Graco Modes Element Travel System

Travel systems bundle at least two essentials for new parents and babies, a stroller and a compatible infant car seat. The Graco Modes Element Travel System includes both of these items, with a car seat that can easily move from the backseat of your car to the stroller for a comfortable ride.

3 in 1 Mesh Bedside Bassinet

This breathable bedside bassinet features adjustable height settings to seamlessly fit alongside your bed, keeping your baby close and comfortable. Its lightweight, foldable design makes it easy to move, store, and travel with, offering convenience for modern parenting.

Simple Joys by Carter’s Baby 3-Pack Neutral Sleep and Play

If there was one item my kids lived in as newborns, it was the sleep and play! These versatile outfits are simple, comfortable, and convenient as they cover tiny toes without constantly putting socks back on their feet. The Simple Joys by Carter’s Sleep and Plays are also tagless to prevent irritation on sensitive skin. These are my favorite extra outfits for the diaper bag because they cover all your bases!

Washable Tummy Time Mat

This washable play and tummy time mat provides a soft, safe, and comfortable surface for babies to explore and play. Designed for easy cleaning and durability, it’s perfect for supporting your baby’s development while keeping your space stylish and mess-free.

These products help provide support during your baby’s early months without breaking the bank. Having these items on hand before your little one’s arrival can make the adjustment to newborn life just a bit easier. Check Mama Mode’s Amazon Storefront for more of our favorites for postpartum, travel, and more!

All products are available on Amazon. Prices and availability are subject to change. As an Amazon affiliate, Mama Mode earns commissions from purchases.

MAMA MODE | MAR 26, 2025 | PRODUCT GUIDE

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How The Mama Mode App is Bridging the Gap with Support for Moms

Jan 27, 2025 | Mom Support

How The Mama Mode App is Bridging the Gap with Support for Moms

Motherhood is both the greatest joy and biggest challenge of my life. I love it, and it’s also just. So. Hard.  So many of us are juggling work, family life, and household responsibilities with very little help. Support for moms is critical and moms deserve more.

The Invisible Load of Motherhood

The “invisible load” or “mental load” is now front and center in discussions about motherhood. Remembering schedules, appointments, grocery lists, home repairs, school activities, routines, chores, and so much more is draining on top of work and other responsibilities.. Even when others help with physical tasks, this mental load can fall disproportionately on moms.

For many of us, this invisible load adds a layer of stress to an already full life. Research consistently shows that moms, especially those balancing work outside the home, often feel overwhelmed, with little time left for personal fulfillment or self-care. Stay-at-home and work-from-home moms aren’t immune, either. This relentless responsibility can lead to feelings of burnout, stress, and guilt.

Why Support Matters

Support systems allow moms to recharge, focus on what matters most, and feel a sense of shared responsibility rather than carrying it all alone. More support can also help moms make time for things that bring them joy, whether that’s spending time with friends, diving into favorite hobbies, or simply enjoying some quiet time alone (going to the bathroom by yourself doesn’t count!)

We know first hand that finding real, practical support can be challenging. Busy families and friends often mean well, but may not have the time or resources to lend a hand regularly. That’s where digital tools like Mama Mode come in. We can’t fold your laundry, but we can help you sort through the mental load in meaningful ways that work for you.

How Mama Mode Offers Daily Support for Moms 

Our goal isn’t to create perfect moms, but to equip moms to create systems that are perfect for them. Mama Mode was created by a mom, for moms with a host of customizable features, including:

  1. Routines & Goal Tracking
    Mama Mode allows moms to set routines and goals that can be tailored to their needs, whether they’re related to family organization, personal wellness, or professional aspirations. Organize your day efficiently with reminders to keep things on track—without having to remember every detail in your head..
  2. Text Message Reminders
    Some days feel like one never ending to-do list. Set up scheduled text reminders in Mama Mode to keep your partner, your mother-in-law, your teens, or other household members in the loop.
  3. Mindful Journaling
    Mama Mode’s journaling feature offers a space for guided reflection tailored to moms.
  4. Beginner-Friendly Meditations
    Guided meditations in the Mama Mode app were curated to address the unique pressures of motherhood. These sessions provide a quiet, calming moment wherever and whenever you need it.

Embracing Support Without Guilt

For so many moms, accepting help or support feels like admitting we can’t do it all. But you shouldn’t have to go it alone. By empowering mamas to delegate responsibilities and equipping them with the tools to create sustainable systems at home, Mama Mode helps moms reclaim time and space for themselves.

By acknowledging the changes and challenges that come with postpartum, building a support network, and prioritizing your wellbeing, you can better prepare for the transition as you adjust to life with your new baby – and life as a new mom!

MAMA MODE | JAN 27, 2025 | MAMA SUPPORT

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How to Prepare for Postpartum: Tips and Encouragement from a 3rd Time Mama

Jan 11, 2025 | Mental Wellness

How to Prepare for Postpartum: Tips and Encouragement from a 3rd Time Mama

When I was pregnant with my first, I wish I had thought more (or at all!) about my postpartum body before I found myself face to face with it. We spend so much time learning about pregnancy, newborns, and sleep schedules, but not nearly enough understanding the immediate changes and needs in the postpartum period. Mentally preparing for postpartum can help ease the transition into motherhood and the emotional challenges that come with it. Here are some of my favorite strategies to help prepare mentally for postpartum:

Understand the Changes: Acknowledge that postpartum recovery involves both physical and emotional changes. Your body will undergo significant changes, and your emotions may fluctuate due to hormonal shifts, sleep deprivation, and new responsibilities. 

Set Realistic Expectations: Accept that things may not go according to plan. While it can be helpful to think through how you’ll approach feeding, sleep, or your new routine, flexibility and setting realistic expectations can ease feelings of disappointment or frustration when you need to pivot.

Plan for Support: Surround yourself with a support system of family and friends or consider a postpartum doula. Determine what kind of help you need, set boundaries that work for you, and don’t hesitate to lean on those who care about you. Knowing that support is available can help you feel less isolated and better equipped to handle the challenges of life with a newborn. 

Learn About Postpartum Mental Health: Educate yourself on postpartum depression (PPD), anxiety, and other mental health challenges that can occur after childbirth. Talk to your doctor to learn more about the resources available to you.

Create a Self-Care Routine: While self-care may seem difficult with a newborn, it’s important to make time for yourself. Your routine can be as simple as taking a walk, doing deep breathing, or asking someone to watch the baby while you rest or take a shower. Small acts of self-care can help you recharge and manage stress.

Practice Mindfulness and Stress Management: Engage in stress-relieving activities like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga before and after baby comes. These practices can help you stay grounded and focused through difficult days (and nights) postpartum. Talk to your doctor about safe and effective techniques that could work for you.

Set Boundaries: Establish boundaries with visitors or family members, especially in the early weeks, to preserve your energy and prioritize your healing. Don’t be afraid to say “no” to visitors or social obligations if you need rest or space.

Prepare for the Reality of Sleep Deprivation: Sleep deprivation is common in the early postpartum period. Plan for ways to manage fatigue, like taking naps when the baby naps or asking your partner to help with nighttime feedings.

Communicate with Your Partner: Talk to your partner about your expectations, needs, and any concerns you may have. Open communication can help ensure you’re both on the same page and ready to share the responsibilities that come with parenthood.

Give Yourself Grace: Remember that postpartum is a time of adjustment, and it’s okay not to have everything together. Allow yourself grace as you learn to navigate this new phase of life.

Download Mama Mode: I created and designed Mama Mode as a mom in the thick of raising littles, seeking to equip other new, soon-to-be, and seasoned mamas with the tools and features to lighten the mental load. Get organized with checklists and reminders, care for yourself with meditations and journaling, build your support system with chore distribution and so. Much. More. Try the app with a 7-day free trial and see the difference it can make for you in any stage of motherhood.

By acknowledging the changes and challenges that come with postpartum, building a support network, and prioritizing your wellbeing, you can better prepare for the transition as you adjust to life with your new baby – and life as a new mom!

MAMA MODE | JAN 10, 2025 | MENTAL WELLNESS

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New Year, New Intentions: Cheers to 2025!

Jan 1, 2025 | Mental Wellness

New Year, New Intentions: Cheers to 2025!

If you’ve been watching TV, listening to the news, or scrolling on social media, you’ve likely heard the same old call to make big changes in the new year. The start of the year often brings the pressure to reinvent ourselves, set lofty goals, or commit to sweeping resolutions. But as moms, our obligations only seem to pile up with the end of school breaks and the return to work and daily routines. Ready to bid farewell to the ‘new year, new resolution’ hype? Join the Mama Mode community as we pivot to a ‘new year, new intentions’ mindset.

Why Intentions Over Resolutions?

Resolutions often feel like ultimatums: “Lose the baby weight,” “Wake up earlier,” or “Finally get organized.” They can quickly turn into a source of guilt when met with setbacks, rather than opportunities for growth.

By contrast, intentions are about direction rather than destination. They help you focus on how you want to feel and what you value, rather than just ticking off boxes. Setting intentions rather than resolutions allows us to make sustainable changes that last beyond the first few weeks of the year.

How to Set Intentions as a Mom

Start With Reflection
Take a moment to think about the past year. What brought you joy? What moments made you feel grounded or connected? Which ones drained your energy? Use these reflections as a guide to shape your intentions. If you’ve been journaling with Mama Mode, this would be a great opportunity to read through some of your entries from 2024.


Example: If you loved the rare moments of quiet during nap time, your intention might be to carve out more peaceful pauses for yourself in the new year.

Think Small, Think Gentle
Intentions don’t need to be grand or life-changing. They should feel doable, even on your hardest days.
Examples:

“I will listen to my body and rest when I need to.”

“I will take five minutes each morning to center myself.”

“I will connect with my kids through laughter.”

Focus on Feelings, Not Outcomes
Instead of aiming for a specific accomplishment, think about how you want to feel. Do you want to feel calmer? More present? Less overwhelmed? Let those feelings guide your actions.

Example: If you want to feel more connected to yourself, your intention might be to journal once a week or take a solo walk.

Keep It Visible
Write your intentions down and place them somewhere you’ll see often—a sticky note on your mirror, a whiteboard in your office, or in the routines section of the Mama Mode app.

Be Flexible
Life as a mom is unpredictable. Some weeks you might crush your intentions; other weeks, they may move to the back burner. That’s okay. Remind yourself that intentions are guideposts, not rules.

Intentions to Inspire You

For Self-Care: “I will treat myself with the same kindness I show my children.”

For Connection: “I will spend more time savoring the little moments with my family.”

For Growth: “I will give myself permission to try new things, even if they’re imperfect.”

For Rest: “I will let go of guilt when I take time for myself.”

Supporting Each Other in the New Year

As moms, we thrive when we feel supported and we’ve woven this philosophy into every feature of the Mama Mode app. Share your intentions with a fellow mom friend, or better yet, create a little accountability group where you can cheer each other on. This isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up for yourself and your family in a way that feels good. And if you’d rather go all-in on resolutions? Go for it! There’s no one way to approach the new year.

But if you’re looking for a gentle reminder, this is it. You don’t need a new year to be a “new you.” You are already enough, just as you are. Let’s make 2025 a year of grace, joy, and small steps toward what truly matters most to you. 

After the ball drops this year and we sing along to auld lang syne, we’re choosing to usher in 2025 with a positive mindset and an open heart, and we’re cheering you on every step of the way. You’ve got this, mama. Happy New Year!

MAMA MODE | JAN 01, 2025 | MENTAL WELLNESS

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The Perfect Baby Shower Gift: A Postpartum Care Kit for the Mom-to-Be

Dec 15, 2024 | Product Guide

The Perfect Baby Shower Gift:

A Postpartum Care Kit for the Mom-to-Be

Between the burp cloths, bouncers, bottles, and baby wipes, have you ever considered that the perfect baby shower gift is sometimes a gift especially for mom? Since baby showers are often held for first time mamas, it’s so important to ensure mom feels supported for the journey ahead. While the new baby gets plenty of well-deserved love and attention, the postpartum period can be challenging as moms adjust to physical and emotional changes. A thoughtful, practical gift for her can help ease into the first few days at home more comfortably. Enter: the Postpartum Care Kit.

This kit is packed with essentials to help a new mom navigate her postpartum recovery with comfort and care, and can be packaged to fit any baby shower theme. Let’s break down the items that make this gift both thoughtful and incredibly practical.

1. Silver Nipple Shields

Breastfeeding can be tough on sensitive skin. These reusable shields provide a soothing barrier, promoting healing and offering much-needed relief for sore or cracked nipples.

2. Tucks Witch Hazel Pads

These cooling pads are a postpartum favorite. They’re great for relieving discomfort from hemorrhoids or stitches and can even be layered in pads for extra soothing relief.

3. Overnight Pads or Postpartum Underwear

Postpartum bleeding is part of the recovery process, and these super-absorbent pads ensure the new mom feels secure and comfortable, especially during those first few weeks. Disposable postpartum underwear offers even more coverage for those who prefer it.

4. Period Underwear

Period underwear provides an extra layer of protection without the worry of leaks and, as they’re designed to be washed and worn again and again, can be used after postpartum as well.

5. Colace (Stool Softener)

Postpartum recovery is no joke, and a little help in the bathroom can make a huge difference. Colace gently eases the process, which is especially helpful after childbirth.

6. Dermoplast Pain Relief Spray

This cooling spray provides instant relief for perineal discomfort or stitches after delivery. It’s a postpartum lifesaver for soothing sensitive areas.

7. Tylenol

Pain relief is essential in the postpartum period, and Tylenol is a gentle option for easing aches, cramps, and soreness.

8. Sitz Bath

A sitz bath helps soothe and heal the perineal area after childbirth. Pair it with the postpartum salts below for added comfort and relaxation.

9. Postpartum Salts

These specially formulated salts enhance a sitz bath by promoting healing, reducing swelling, and providing much-needed relaxation.

10. Upside Down Peri Bottle

While a hospital or birth center may provide a basic peri bottle, the upside down peri bottle is where it’s at. The angled spout is so much more effective and convenient for new moms.

11. Hydrojug (Large Water Bottle)

Staying hydrated is key for healing and breastfeeding. A large, easy-to-use, and spill-proof water bottle with a handle makes hydration a no-brainer.

Presentation Matters

Further personalize your gift with a calming candle, favorite treats, or a journal to keep track of her thoughts. Neatly arrange these essentials in a decorative basket that can later double as nursery storage, add a handwritten note, and enjoy celebrating the mom-to-be! While the newborn sleepers and swaddles will be put to good use, this gift reminds her that she matters, too.

As with any gift, moms-to-be should talk to their doctor about the best products to use for their specific postpartum needs.

*This post contains affiliate links

MAMA MODE | DEC 15, 2024 | PRODUCT GUIDE

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