9 Items Every New Mom Should Have, Says "Pregnant Pause" Podcast Host Danielle Cadet

Nested by Baby Dove and Peanut ($0 to download)

Even the most devoted village sometimes needs reinforcements. That's where Nested, a digital community created by Baby Dove and the Peanut app, comes in. It offers everything from caregiver directories to dermatologist-approved product suggestions, plus a space to vent, laugh, and swap parenting hacks. "Not every mom has built-in support," Cadet says, "but Nested helps close that gap."

My First Reading Library ($65)

Creating a bedtime routine that sticks is hard but Cadet says this library makes it more joyful. With dozens of early-reader stories and interactive puzzles, this collection helps kids wind down while building a love for books. "My four-year-old loves reading every story and doing the puzzles in the back."

Lovevery Playkits ($120, originally $138)

If you've ever felt overwhelmed by toy shopping, Lovevery makes it easy. Each kit is tailored to your child's developmental stage, offering Montessori-style learning without the guesswork.

Hatch Restore Sunrise Alarm Clock ($170)

Your baby's sleep matters, but so does yours. Cadet didn't think she needed a sound machine, until she tried this one. It simulates a sunrise to wake you gently, rather than shocking you out of slumber. "It changed my life," she says. "Not only do I get more restful sleep, I don't get jolted awake by a noisy alarm."

Willow Breast Pump ($312, originally $500)

Portable, wearable, and surprisingly discreet, the Willow was Cadet's go-to during the newborn phase. She's pumped everywhere from the car to a Zoom call (her tip: just tilt the camera).

Cybex Lemo 4-in-1 High Chair ($350)

For moms who appreciate longevity in their baby gear, this high chair is a win. It grows with your child from infancy through the toddler years and makes family meals feel more connected. Cadet especially appreciates being able to include her newborn at the table during family dinners.

The Nanit Monitor ($385)

Sleep is a hot commodity in motherhood, and this smart monitor makes tracking it a little easier. With insights sent directly to your phone, Nanit offers a clear picture of your baby's sleep habits. "It's helped me manage schedules and track their sleep, which comes in handy during the tough sleep regression stages," says Cadet.

The Doona Stroller ($600)

Traveling with kids can be challenging, but Cadet swears the Doona stroller makes it manageable. It transforms from a car seat to a stroller in seconds, which is ideal whether you're flying across the country or just popping into a friend's car without a bulky base.

Artipoppe Baby Carrier in Organic Cashmere and Silk ($770)

Who says baby gear can't be fancy? Cadet gravitated to this luxe baby carrier not just for its style points, but also for how functional it was, especially when having a newborn and toddler in tow. "As a stylish mom, this was my go-to item to keep my hands free while also serving a look," says Cadet of the splurge item.

Deena Campbell is the former beauty director of Marie Claire and a passionate advocate for driving meaningful conversations about beauty, particularly around ensuring BIPOC individuals feel seen and their stories are told.