A few weeks ago I listed my favorite baby gear picks for newborn to four month-olds. I am excited to continue the series with more essentials for four month to eight month-olds! By the time Waverley was four months-old we were moved in to our house and had the opportunity to use more gear than before, which was perfect timing because she started eating solids at five months and the necessary gear kept multiplying. I still carefully considered each product we purchased and used, requiring everything to pass the test of being stylish and functional with long-term use capabilities. Here is my list of OT and mama approved essentials:

One: I chose the Stokke ‘Tripp Trapp’ high chair because it can grow with Waverley, keeps her contained and well-positioned (i.e., she’s not leaning all over the place), is easy to pull up to the table or use with a tray at the counter, and coordinates with our own chairs so it doesn’t scream “baby high chair here!”.

Two: The Boon Whale Pod is essential for storing away bath toys. The corners of our tub were quickly overrun with piles of toys that seemed to just soak in grimy water until the next bath. The Whale Pod allows the water to drain out and is barely noticeable against the white walls of the tub. Love it.

Three: The Joovy ‘Spoon’ Walker is my preferred choice over obnoxious exer-saucers. I love being able to put her own toys on the large tray and the sleek design makes me not want to cringe when I see it in the corner of our living room.

Four: Beaba Silicone Spoons are perfect for first feedings with just the right size spoon and handle. The angle of the spoon to the handle is just right to ensure most of the bite actually makes it in Waverley’s mouth. Waverley loves to gnaw on these as well so silicone is definitely the way to go over anything with metal.

Five: Now that she’s drinking from supplementary sources more I wanted to use glass rather than plastic. The Lifefactory glass bottle with sippy cap are wonderful because the silicone covers are easy to grip and prevent breakage when they are vigorously thrown on the floor. We use them with the sippy cap for water and nipples for milk. Two in one? Genius.

Six: I am not sure why it took me so long to buy the OXO Perfect Pull Wipes Dispenser but I’ve loved it ever since. The weight on the inside ensures only one wipe comes out at a time. It’s easier to handle one-handed (because the other hand is wrestling a wiggly baby on the changing table) than a package of wipes and it looks nicer, too. Winning!

Seven: The Ju-Ju-Be ‘Be Neat’ Reversible Bib comes in a handy little pouch which makes it great for traveling or going out to eat. The fabric is easy to rinse (we used cloth bibs at first …  it was a disaster) and the magnetic closure actually stays closed, rather than Velcro which loosens over time. It’s a little spendy for one bib but with the Ju-Ju-Be you’ll only need one bib. It’s the only one we use.

Eight: Sets of ramekins may seem random in a baby gear list, however, we use them for every meal. The small size is perfect for baby servings and they are microwave safe, which is convenient considering I am usually heating up previously frozen meals for Waverley. My always in-the-know best friend told me to use these and, as usual, she was spot-on.

Nine: The Maxi-Cosi Pria convertible car seat is super plush, comes in lovely colors, and is easy to get Waverley in and out of. She has yet to take advantage of the cup holder, but I foresee that being incredibly useful in the future. The insert works well for smaller babes and provides great longevity by removing it as they grow. I guess it is ultra comfortable considering she is asleep within ten minutes of being in it!

Ten: Boon Bath Tub Appliques are my favorite bath toys. They are mold and mildew resistant, are easy to grab and hold onto for little hands, and the colors and shapes are stimulating to Waverley yet simultaneously modern looking for us. Because they are BpA-free, Phthalate-free and PVC-free, I don’t worry when she chews on them for 99% of her bath.

Eleven: The Beco Baby Carrier Gemini is my lifesaver! I’ve tried several other brands and this one is my favorite, both for my ergonomics and Waverley’s positioning. It offers four positioning options, great back support for the wearer, is easy to put on independently, and has an extra safety latch on the buckles. I’ve taken it with me everywhere since I received it. Also, it comes in sophisticated colors and prints which is obviously a necessity.

I hope this list is helpful for you! Is there anything else you would add for 4-8 month-old babes?