Before we had Elliott, we like other expectant parents put together a gift registry. Unlike the one for our wedding, it was more important to get the right mix of items, and as a first time mom, I had no idea where to start. So, I turned to my friends and family with children for advice on which items to get. After three weeks of motherhood, I thought I’d pass on my favorite picks so far.

1. Aden + Anais Swaddle Blankets – They’re light weight and come in adorable prints – the perfect choice for summer babies.  Be sure to stock up on a bunch. We go through about one a day.

2. A sound machine – This is truly a life saver. Babies love the white noise.

3. Burp rags and bar mop towels – If your little bundle of joy is a spitter like mine, you’ll need something heavy-duty like these items. I’ve also been told cloth diapers work well for this.

4. A diaper pail with baking soda – It helps keep those stinky diapers from smelling up your baby’s room.

5. Changing pad covers – No preference here – just make sure you have several.