11 Secretly Genius Baby Products That Make New Parent Life Easier

Babies aren’t known for loving having their diaper changed (cue: wiggling). So this easy-to-clean changing station was designed with a built-in mobile to keep your little one distracted while you do the dirty work. And when you’re done? Just wipe it down. No changing pad covers needed.

Bathtime is a favorite nightly ritual for lots of families. This kit is makes it simple—the spout cover protects baby’s head and the specially designed whale-shaped rinser makes for tear-free shampooing. And the 3-stage bath tub will allow you to bathe baby as they grow.

With bulky jackets off-limits in the car seat, winter weather can make it a challenge to keep your baby warm while you’re traveling. This better-than-a-blanket car seat cover fits on almost any infant car seat (thanks to the super-smart elastic design), keeping the heat in and moisture from pesky things like rain and snowflakes off your little one.

This piece of baby gear is a multi-tasker. Start it as a traditional high chair, move to a booster (both dining and tableside) and then finally convert it to a big-kid chair that can be used up until they’re 80 lbs! And the whole thing is easy to clean, and the modern design looks great in any home.

Blowouts happen where you least expect them (and often when you’re least prepared for them!) This sleek diaper clutch may not look like it holds much, but it has enough storage for diapers, wipes and cream, and the whole thing unfolds into a changing pad for when you’re on-the-go.

Bedside bassinets can be really convenient for late-night feeding and soothing (and this one has a drop-down side panel that makes it easy to get baby in and out). But they are a whole lot more convenient when you can wheel them from room-to-room and let baby nap near you throughout the day.

When bathtime becomes part of your daily routine, your tub will be your right-hand tool. But traditional baby tubs can be bulky. This smart update stores flat and can be used in the sink, on the kitchen counter (just be sure to keep a hand on your baby at all times) or in your regular tub for maximum portability.

Noise machines can be a godsend in those early days when your baby is missing the soothing sounds of the womb. But this super-cool succulent takes it a few steps further, by automatically responding to your baby’s cries. It also provides a comforting nightlight and a multi-light show mode, a voice recorder for customized comfort and a thermometer to ensure baby’s room is a comfy temp.

Babies outgrow their play spaces almost as quickly as they outgrow their clothing. This cleverly designed activity center grows with your baby, transforming from a seated activity center with lots of sensory toys to a standing one when your baby graduates to two feet, then into a toddler play table with a chalkboard surface for maximum creativity.

In the first few months of parenthood, playtime will mostly take place in one spot—and this stylish play mat is a great place for you and baby to hang out. This garden-themed activity mat has sweet hanging toys for your baby to explore texture and sounds, and it’s adjustable for either tummy time or overhead play. Best of all, it folds flat, so it’s easy to move from room to room or to take with you to grandma’s or a friend’s place.

This lightweight-yet-sturdy diaper bag backpack is an eco-friendler option—its exterior is made from eight recycled PET bottles! But it’s also functional, with multiple pockets, a wipes compartment, a wide opening and spacious interior to hold baby—and parent—essentials. And the Envi-Lux’s included changing pad and stroller straps make being on the go that much easier.