Must Have Items for Better Baby Sleep (and Happier Parents)
If you’re a parent, you already know—good sleep can feel like a luxury. The right products won’t magically solve every sleepless night, but they can make a big difference in helping your baby settle faster and sleep more comfortably.
Here are some of my favorite must-haves to support better baby sleep. I’ve personally used ALL of these products on my own two children. :)
1. A Reliable White Noise Machine
White noise helps mimic the comforting sounds of the womb and can block out household noise that might wake your baby. It’s especially helpful for naps and bedtime consistency.
Yogasleep Dohm is my favorite one because it is not a machine noise but rather a REAL white noise machine.
2. Blackout Curtains that actually work
Light can seriously impact your baby’s sleep cycles—especially early mornings and daytime naps. A good set of blackout curtains creates the dark, cozy environment babies need to sleep longer and more soundly.
I highly recommend Sleepout Curtains as they’re non-toxic and 100% pitch black AND have portable options!
3. Effective Swaddle & Comfortable Sleep Sack
I have tried SO many swaddles and the Ollie Swaddle is the BEST one out there. Baby will not be able to get out of it and will give you longer sleep stretches with this swaddle! When your baby is ready to move to a sleep sack (no later than 12 weeks old), I recommend Kyte as they are so buttery soft. Watch out for the TOG and sizes.
4. A Quality Crib Mattress
A supportive, breathable mattress makes a big difference in your baby’s comfort and safety. Look for one that’s firm (as recommended for infants) but still designed with comfort in mind. I love the Newton brand as it’s ultra breathable and non toxic.
5. Gentle Night Light for Feeds
Late-night feedings and diaper changes are much easier with a soft, dimmable night light. It gives you enough visibility without fully waking your baby (or you!). This is the one I used with my second during those early months.
6. Baby Monitor You Can Trust
Peace of mind is everything. A good baby monitor lets you check in without disturbing your baby, whether you’re in the next room or catching up on rest yourself. I recommend the Miku monitor because it monitors through your phone without the baby having to wear anything! You can get 10% OFF with code: stellarbabysleep
7. Spill proof Sippy Cup for Milk Transition
I can’t tell you how many sippy cups I’ve gone through with my 2 children. I hate how most of them spill everywhere and I finally found THE ONE cup that is the perfect size for a transitional cup that is actually spill proof! GROSMIMI is the one to get and both of my girls use this every night before bed.
8. Easy to Clean (Seriously) Humidifier
If you’re wanting to use a humidifier during those dry winter months, the Carepod is the one I love. It does not get mildew on it like the others and it’s so helpful for when they get colds.
9. Natural Teething Oil
Yes, teething will disrupt sleep. I try not to give Tylenol too much so this is such a great way to help. I put Punkin Butt on right before bed time and sometimes naps and it truly helps!
10. Silky Soft Pajamas
Magnetic Me will always be my favorite brand of pajamas for a baby. They are so clutch for diaper changes during the day and overnight because they’re so easy to take off/put on.
Bonus: Travel Items
11. Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed
This is a must if you’re travelling with a toddler. The Hiccapop brand makes a really good one that includes safety bumpers. It’s very easy to set up and dissemble. I put the SlumberPod right over it too!
12. SlumberPod Travel Tent
This is my ultimate all time favorite travel baby gear and an absolute must. I can’t speak enough about how life changing this product is for your travels with children. SlumberPod creates the perfect sleep environment while letting you room share in the light! 10% OFF with code: stellarbabysleep
13. Portable White Noise Sound Machine
I use this a lot in the car but also works for stroller naps and on the go! I love the Yogasleep brand because it makes a natural sound and very portable and convenient to use.
Need Help with Your Baby’s Sleep?
If you’re ready for better sleep, let’s work together.
Reach out to learn more about my 1:1 support and how I can help your family get the rest you all deserve.
- Stella Kontak, pediatric sleep consultant and owner of stellar baby sleep
If you’re struggling with your 0-5 year old’s sleep and need some help, schedule a 15 minute intro call here: https://www.stellarbabysleep.com/appointments
