Every time I make a run to the local baby superstore, I seem to come across a spat of newfangled items that are supposed to make life easier for mom and dad and be lots of fun for baby, and while some of them I've deemed completely pointless__, there are quite a few that are actually bordering on genius.__ Either by design, functionality or both, every mom will covet these nine items:
SippiGrip
This sippy cup harness is perfect for its namesake, but thanks to its adjustable strap, it'll also help you keep track of toys, teething rings and pretty much anything else your baby might attempt to fling across the room. SippiGrip, $12
Deluxe Snack & Play Kids Travel Tray
Need to keep your kids calm on an upcoming road trip? This portable snack/activity tray has pockets to hold all of your little one's favorite toys and treats and a rim to keep things from rolling off. Plus, it attaches to your child's waist, so you won't have to worry about it sliding around. It even doubles as a stroller tray. Deluxe Snack & Play Kids Travel Tray, $20
Tiny Diner
The Tiny Diner is perfect to keep in your diaper for use when you're out and about and decide to grab a bite to eat. It suctions to any table, so you won't have to worry about your tike eating off of a dirty surface, the trough will keep you from having to clean up a huge mess before you leave and it's easy to wipe clean and pack away for later. Tiny Diner Portable Placemat, $8.76
FlexiBath
Prince Lionheart's Flexibath folds completely flat and is perfect if your home is tight on space or lacks storage, but it's also great when you're traveling with your little one. Plus, it's constructed without the use of harmful or hazardous materials, so you can feel comfortable using it on a daily basis. Prince Lionheart FlexiBath, $42
Frog Pod
Boon's ultra adorable Frog Pod will help you gather, store, and dry all of your baby's or toddler's bath toys in one fell swoop. Thanks to its extra-large drainage holes, you won't have to worry about soap scum and mildew building up on your little one's treasured toys. Frog Pod, $35
Feeder Frock
The Feeder Frock is an innovative nursing cover that not only covers your front side, but wraps and fastens around your side and back so that you won't end up showing too much skin when you lift your shirt to breastfeed your baby. It even has front pockets and a bendable neckline that allows you to check in on your baby as needed. It's also available in plus sizes! Feeder Frock, $60
Portable Nightlight
The Light My Way Portable Nightlight is marketed for in-nursery use that your toddler can also grab and easily operate to illuminate the way for potty trips, but if you have a younger baby, I'm betting it would be awesome for middle-of-the-night feedings and diaper changes, especially if you prefer to do those in your own room. If that's not enough, it's super-cute and on-trend owl shape might hook you. Light My Way Portable Nightlight, $17
Soft Impact Corner Cushions
I admittedly haven't done much babyproofing, but one of my first purchases will likely be Munchkin's XtraGuard Soft Impact Corner Cushions. They're clear, discreet and really affordable, so there's no real reason not to buy them. XTRAGUARD Soft Impact Corner Cushions, $9
3-in-1 Potty
I love baby items that I will be able to use for many years, and Jahgoo's sleek 3-in-1 potty certainly fits the bill. It functions as a stand-alone potty, but the top seat part can also be removed and used on the regular toilet. And when your tot is fully trained, the base doubles as a stepstool that you'll likely use for years to come. 3-in-1 potty, $50
