15 Things I Am NOT Using For My Baby | MINIMALISM

[@atroy1983]

A note for new moms: all these companies will try and sell you things that will help with your baby’s development, intelligence, etc. Unless your child has a genetic problem, they are going to develop no matter what. Nurture and love them and don’t worry about needing stuff to fill your role as a mom.

[@AC-iw5mv]

👍

[@EmeryShae]

Amen!

[@yourerightimwrong4567]

My kids had so much crazy and sooo many toys and I wish something like Lovevery would have existed in the mainstream back then. 3-4 toys that they'd love would have been plenty.

[@MadameEclipseRose]

from a scientific side this is not correct. You can lower or rise 20 IQ points of your child. It depends on how you stimulate your child and which stimuli you give them. Of course I am not saying that you have to buy any of this expensive stuff the companies are trying to sell you but to say that it does not matter at all and you don't have to worry is simply not true...

[@atroy1983]

@@MadameEclipseRose The point is that the “stimuli” comes from your nurturing and time spent with your baby playing, being outside, reading books, talking etc. and if you do these basic things your child will learn to talk and read and be a functioning adult. The reality is that not every child will have a super high IQ even with all the right conditions.

[@tracywillis8460]

As a farming family, the baby monitor is the only way I can garden. I love putting them down to nap, taking the monitor, and heading out to get my hands in the dirt for a bit of "me time". I'm hearing impaired, so my monitor lights up and vibrates to let me know when Baby is starting to stir. I think it's so cool to hear other people's perspectives of what is essential or not.

[@n4musica]

Not a parent yet, but when I was a teen I helped take care of my little cousins as newborns and I remember when everyone (even their parents 😂) were sleeping I would periodically get up and check to make sure they were still breathing. I feel like when I’m a mom someday I’ll need a monitor haha

[@logandanae8692]

As a mom with anxiety, the baby monitor is the only way I don’t die of fear 🤣🤣🤣

[@jennadanielescobar4440]

Awesome to see another mom’s opinion on this. I don’t use a monitor personally, but I can see why other people may want to use one! Makes a lot of sense.

[@jerzievap]

that’s totally okay!!

[@ExploreAndConquerkids]

Pp

[@suzbartos1439]

Just a note for anyone else reading this, sound machines are not to cover up noises. It's precisely because your baby is used to A LOT of noise in utero, so putting them in a quiet room can make it difficult to sleep. Just a thought :)

[@natashjasummerfield6975]

We are a very loud family and our newborn could not sleep in a quiet room

[@whatisanamewhatisaface]

Exactly. I was very confused when she said her babies were “used to noise.” Didn’t make any sense.

[@sandirose3545]

True.

[@Motherswatering]

Yes. Some people use them because their babies get used to the silence and will stir in a different environment. They appreciate them because it creates a consistent noise environment.

[@LS13.]

@@whatisanamewhatisaface well a lot of time it’s silent/muffled even in utero the water buffers and protects baby ears, some families start quieting down around 8pm and it’s very silent for half the 24hr day. Then the baby being out in the world; the sounds are much much louder and severe, even basic rustling. A lot sharper. If a family is always very loud with constant sounds sure the baby will be a bit better with sounds, but many times it’s not the case too

[@claire_x]

Watching this as a 19 year old with no desire of kids yet just because it’s Sarah 🤣

[@pardispou]

Same here hahah, but 24 years old :)

[@elliebartlett9064]

Same here but a lot younger.

[@kadyh]

Same I love the energy this channel has.

[@eunicebugaian1397]

me, just at 17..

[@kathyd9752]

Sameeee

[@Kasseratops]

And if other people care, tell them to go take a hike because it’s your baby and your money. LOUDER FOR THE PEOPLE IN THE BACK 🙌

[@samanthaheins7711]

We cloth diaper and it honestly isn’t that much more work for us. I get that our life and home and babies are different than other people’s but we actually enjoy cloth diapering. And we only spent $200 on a stash of new cloth diapers but we could have saved money buying used. I hope anyone reads this is encouraged to try it because it’s so much better for the environment!

[@jennathebookworm]

Yes! This! We’ve saved over $2000 by cloth diapering just one child and only spent a couple hundred dollars out of pocket. Such a money saver.

[@katehb6038]

@@jennathebookworm same here! we used cloth and bought most of ours second hand alongside using traditional cloth nappies too. Was not difficult and even went camping while our baby was still in cloth nappies. It is not as difficult or expensive as Sarah made it out to be.

[@yourerightimwrong4567]

Wellll, with 3 other kiddos I'm sure it is much more of a hassle. To have had 3 kids in cloth diapers and the way her family lives her life offsets a lot of what the other people in the world are doing, so...

[@emileeengelhardt9373]

Girl same! I have had three children in diapers AT THE SAME TIME and did cloth! It was the best and saved us a ton

[@caitlinthomas6951]

Yes, cloth has saved us so much $$ even though we have bought disposables some.

[@Reilly.McIntire]

As someone who is pregnant with their first babe, I really appreciate your outlook and opinion!

[@AmyHoldaway27]

Me too! I agree with everything so far except the baby bath just because we don’t have a bath here, just showers 🥺 I remember thinking, “what are we gonna use for a baby monitor?” (Because, you know every video different people have different recommendations) then i realised..... we are living in one room 😂😂😂

[@candycandyissodandy]

Ok but now we need a list of what you ARE going to buy 😊

[@KatrinaMarie]

I agree!!

[@GigiChoko]

Psychologists actually agree on letting your baby be bored thing. It's important to let your kid figure out how to entertain themselves, and that's why the whole "ipad babies" debate is so popular right now. Being stimulated and entertained 24/7 doesn't give the kids space to actually relax and learn to just... be

[@naturallynikki7150]

Nor will they learn to use their own imagination as apposed to someone else's ideas and stories! I get a LOT of crap for mot letting my daughter use tech crap. We have a TV on w kids shows/movies most of the day but most of that is background noise so I don't go nuts in silence. She's usually tearing up the house or outside playing in the dirt. Got her first case of poison ivy last week cuz she's like her momma n picks plants just to pretend to make medicine like mom! I'd rather teach her how to entertain herself with what's already around her rather than an electronic device that has more safety concerns than could possibly ever outweigh any benefit! She's literally allowed 1hr ever few days n that's only if she's been behaving. And the only thing on the tablet is learning games. Simple, no propaganda or subliminal messaging games that teach her math, spelling, early sciences and about animals... that's it! N she won't be on social media til she's 30 if I can help it!

[@idahmakalani7944]

@@naturallynikki7150 s

[@mountainmamacloth4441]

For me the benefits of cloth diapers far outweigh the negatives. The biggest positives are environmental factors and the fact I can donate them to a momma who might not be able to afford disposables. I don’t find it gross at all. We deal with poop regardless!

[@nancypatterson374]

My youngest son, who is 43 now, was very allergic to disposable diapers. And neither of my kids had diaper rash with cloth.

[@katehb6038]

Yes!! and even with disposable nappies you still need to discard the waste in the toilet before disposing of them which not many people know or do.

[@caitlinthomas6951]

Love my cloth too!

[@jesscurr2071]

I considered it but for me on my last baby, the environmental impact of cotton farming to produce 30 nappies and then the manufacturing process is no better than disposables for around 3 years...

[@caitlinthomas6951]

@@jesscurr2071 depending on the brand there is actually a good resale value for a lot of cloth diapers. I have sold and bought second hand occasionally.

[@desireediaz1712]

My sons are 35 and 36, and there wasn’t a lot of fancy stuff to choose from, and we did just fine. Everything has become so commercialized, that in my opinion, it’s quite daunting. I say to moms, do what’s best for you and your baby. And not what everyone else is doing.❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@TheKnallkorper]

It really is. As a new mom you are like a deer in headlights when it’s time to make a registry or anything. Reading reviews and whatnot. Even just picking a car seat is an entire research project 😖

[@marysanta3546]

I think a baby monitor is worth it if you have a huge house. Like kitchen is in the complete opposite side of the house on the first floor.

[@DinocoSparrow]

Mine is worth it purely because I sleep sooo deeply so my poor toddler would cry for ages otherwise. 😆

[@nellekegrisnich1672]

We live on a farm , and a baby monitor is so helpful !

[@luckyahmed200]

Also helpful when you have toddlers sleeping in a different room than you

[@TheKnallkorper]

Yes! I like to do chores outside while my kids nap. It’s a savior for me. Also at night I’ll sleep through cries unless they’re amplified through the monitor

[@TheScarlettOh]

It's also useful when you have small flat and you want to (for example) watch movie and to have closed doors.

[@rebekahsummers4953]

Could you do “things you do not have in your kitchen!” I’m getting married in June and want to keep things plain and simple but I’m not sure what is necessary or not? Would love to know your thoughts!

[@rosem7042]

The only appliances we use on a daily basis are our toaster oven and coffee machine.

[@jackintheville]

Such a good video idea

[@Itssalinaking]

So I got married last week and put an air fryer on the registry.. definitely regret it. It’s the size of a space ship!!! Oven is just fine for me.

[@RachelDee]

Such a good question. The Minimal Mom has some great videos on that topic. Obviously a little different lifestyle since she has a big family, but you can decide which principles apply.

[@lizzylambardo8103]

My fiancee is incredibly minimalist. Until very recently, all we've had is a stove and an oven. Then he got a really small, really old toaster. And he got a microwave for free from someone and only bc I've been wanting one during my pregnancy. But you can definitely make do with just an oven and the stove.

[@felicia462]

Sound and movement monitors has nothing to do with privacy, it's saved SO many babies from SIDS. you don't have to sit and watch it, it has an alarm that goes off on your side if it hasn't picked up breathing movement from the baby. So accurate regarding movement

[@kardancer1]

Yes absolutely! I have a friend who had incident with her son it saved his life. I don’t think monitors period is a privacy issue for most. Breathing monitors are great to prevent a health accident. Regular monitors are nice if you have a big house or will not hear your baby easily. It’s not like these tiny humans can talk yet. Babies can get into all sorts of crazy situations even in safe sleep surfaces. It’s more like a helper tool. They make ones that are just audio if you prefer that. We loved our Owlet for someone who had Postpartum anxiety I wouldn’t have slept at all without it the first few weeks. So mama’s if any type of monitor helps your mental and emotional health it is perfectly okay. ❤️

[@musiclover2115]

Exactly! My nephew started to stop breathing in the middle of the night. They would have never known had they not used a baby monitor. They thankfully got him into get a sleep study and he was diagnosed with sleep apnea. Thankfully they think he will grow out of it!

[@lolsaXx]

That's one of the reasons I sleep next to my babies. Mothers are biologically in sync with their babies. If baby stops breathing, mama wakes up. I get too paranoid to even let baby nap in another room. But I understand how important they can be for other families.

[@alphieaddams]

I have autism Which means i have executive dysfunction disorder (which if you dont know means my brain does not make happy chemicals when i complete a task) And for some reason watching this channel motivates me to do things What a role model

[@daisypoppy6054]

I am autistic too and I feel the same way!

[@zzgigs]

I have this too and I think it's the neutral background, great video quality, clear simple voice, no music, and the message is straight forward!

[@AllyMarieB]

The one thing I can honestly say babies do not need a lot .. just the bare minimal && they aren't going to care .

[@theagoratoad]

The best place is outside honestly, My son loved and still loves going outside. So much input!

[@TheKnallkorper]

Baby toys who? My kids loved the wooden spoon and remote control 😂

[@Ana-jacomini]

As a sleep consultant I have to add that the sound machine is a good sleep association and a natural soother since it simulates the womb sounds so it is still good to have even though you're in a bigger house. It is a great tool to have in the 4th trimester. You don't need to buy one, you could use a tablet or your phone and play white or brown noise on KZbin :)

[@serenitymattingly]

I never understood baby monitors until my sister needed one for their special needs baby.

[@nicolec0328]

We opted for one this round. We have a multi story house and it just makes mom feel better.

[@TheKnallkorper]

I use one to hear if my child wakes at night or after nap. I’ll sleep through my child crying if they wake at night

[@debaterforhim]

They are also great for moms that work full time at home while taking care of baby. It's hard to do both so it really helps to have that tech to back you up. ❤

[@haileyosborne1012]

Halo bassinet🙌🏼 I had a C section and couldn’t sit up on my own for a few nights, I had it swiveled onto my bed with me and it was such a blessing!

[@PamelasLas]

till how long did the baby fit in there?

[@vickysworld200]

I’m pregnant with my third baby and I feel like we have the same attitude when it comes to newborns. The first is always exciting with loads of stuff you don’t even use, but when you become an experienced mom, you only use the basics of what is actually necessary haha 😆

[@MarisaAndChew]

When I was a teen I had my kids (17 and 19). I TOTALLY AGREE WITH YOU!!! most of this "stuff" wasn't even around then my kids were born, the only thing that we did get good use out of was the exersaucer, before it got all fancy it was just a plain tray with the baby in the middle to help with their leg strength, my daughter often would snack in hers bc it was just a tray and she didn't like the highchair. I always tell people now kids are only as expensive as you make them! You can easily go to garage sales and get all the kids clothing and burp cloths etc that you would need, or you can spend a fortune on Etsy, it's up to you and your budget! I wanted to co-sleep with my first, she did not like that, so she was in a bassinet (handed over from a cousin) during the day and at night she was in a crib in her own room. With my second, I didn't want to co-sleep because it had worked so well with my daughter but he was very strong and was pulling up in the bassinet and he was breastfed (my oldest was not bc my milk sucked for her body) and it was just easy to co-sleep and whip out a boob and not have to get up and do a bottle etc at night. Fortunately, with my oldest, it was super hot that summer and we didn't have air conditioning and she WANTED cold bottles, a warmed bottle would make her throw up like projectile exorcist style, so a bottle straight from the fridge worked great for her and once it cooled off outside I simply heated her bottle in the microwave for a few seconds and gave it a good shake, heat test and it was good to go. I will say with the cost of diapers you would definitely save a lot if you went with cloth again, BUT time is money and money is time so if you would rather go with disposable for the reasons you gave then that' awesome! I did disposable with my first, cloth with my second and it was a big savings. Being the age I was it was better for us to invest in cloth and have diapers on hand at all times than it was to have to budget 50 dollars for a case and hope it lasted until the next paycheque! I have no clue WHY all the seats are a thing now for babies, I will say if I was to have another, I would invest in the bumbo, but otherwise, why can't the baby just hang out on the floor etc? If you have a pet or something that you're worried will step on the baby, then sure get a gate or a playpen, but it's totally not necessary and having a baby strapped into various seats all day must be SO BORING for the baby!!! I bathed with my babies too and did so until I was not worried about them drowning easily. My youngest who nursed HATED baths and he would nurse the whole way through and that made it tolerable for him. The way I see it is a baby really only needs a place to potty, a boob or formula, warmth and love to thrive! Everything else is extra! So excited for you Sarah and for the message that you're sending mama's about not needing all of the things! A baby just wants to feel our love and affection and to be fed and have a clean diaper!

[@Carlyon100]

You are so right

[@TheKnallkorper]

I agree! Having kids does NOT need to cost you $100,000 a year or whatever the ridiculous statistic is.

[@makaylaellison9058]

I hope this doesn’t intimidate new moms wanting to cloth diaper, it really doesn’t take much of my time at all. I just do an extra load or two of laundry.. just have to learn your lip baby’s routine of when they potty the most 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@leahtimmermann2708]

Lets all be honest and admit that babies live in literally a blanket for the first 3 months. ;) Love this video Sarah!

[@bisma16]

*’i’m a foundation of their security as their mom.’* love this. 💜💜💜

[@tabithaburnette2264]

Not that my opinion is worth anything- but I think paci’s are absolutely necessary for formula feeding moms. Pacifiers reduce the risk of SIDS. My kids are breasted so they never took a paci, but we nursed throughout the night which also reduces the risk of SIDS. Thought it may be worth mentioning for anyone reading the comments.🖤

[@jottamartins]

A longer stay at the hospital, pumping, several lactation consultants, all to work around my first one refusing the breast, pacifiers, and several bottles until we found the one. It is hellish to have a newborn that can't be soothed and comforted at the breast or with a paci. My second one is 12 weeks today, also refuses a paci, but thank the Lord nurses like a champ. Still there are times a paci would come in handy, particularly since she has started to suck on her thumb. Might be a phase, or the makings of a childhood long lasting habit.

[@isabelsmith1555]

Yeah I think it all just depends on the mom and baby. Pacis might not be necessary for breastfed babies, but formula babies don't have the breast to soothe them. I have also seen tons of comments saying that cloth diapering is so easy etc etc. And sure it might be easy for them, but that is not the case for everyone who tries it. Mom shaming needs to stop! You're a good mom whether you cloth diaper or use disposables and whether you breastfeed or formula feed :)

[@TheKnallkorper]

I didn’t wanna use a paci just to avoid the phase where you need to take it away. I gave in with my first, mostly because she was in NICU for 7 weeks and I felt guilty not being able to be there 24/7 to comfort her. My second took it but didn’t care when or if it was gone 🤷🏼‍♀️ every kid really is different

[@Emi2d2]

My formula baby never used a paci. 8 months old now~ They still wake up in the night to eat even if they’re on formula.

[@isabelsmith1555]

@@Emi2d2 i don't think the point of the post was to advocate for pacis, but rather to advocate for different mamas doing different things. There's so much judgment against everything moms do or don't do. I think the post was just bringing more awareness to the fact that we all need to do things differently. And one person's experience doesn't disregard another person's experience

[@thereseg.8701]

Thank you so much for this. Expecting my first baby in September, and realizing there's actually a lot I don't need. Feels like such a relief as we live in a small space. Cant wait for your list of what you're actually going to be buying!

[@gabrielamarquette9984]

I just found out that I’m pregnant and I have been watching all your maternity related videos! I think we have very similar way of thinking. Thank you so much for sharing so many good experiences here with us!! Hugs!!

[@karenrabar376]

Not pregnant, no kids but loving the video just because of her ❤️😁

[@mannawilliams143]

Same!

[@musebomwansa913]

Same!

[@jenwhyte6440]

Lucky

[@tanja_thr6099]

Same.... 😅😆🙈 And I love it 💁🏼‍♀️❤️

[@miniwheatt1]

It’s actually VERY beneficial for babies to have a sound machine. There’s sooo much noise to the womb, that coming out to none of that “white noise” can be startling. Not kids talking, music, cleaning, but actual white noise!

[@RachelDee]

Nah. It's a myth. I respect some sleep experts who have a different opinion. But it's interesting the babies I've seen that generally adjust just fine if it's never introduced to them in the first place.

[@stariehearts2366]

Don't think babies care lol. Non of us kids had that and we had no issues sleeping

[@eemers96]

Praying for you and your body during this pregnancy, Sarah! 💖 Love your sweet family.

[@sineaddolan1413]

"Your baby doesn't care" so so very true, your baby just wants mom thats it, all the extra stuff just gave me anxiety. I had my 1st baby in 2008 when hyper consumerism was the thing, I found it so unnecessary. Im very glad of the culture shift to minimalism!

[@MarriedNachos]

I've recently started embracing a more minimal lifestyle, in part because of inspiration from your channel. My husband and I are trying to start a family and I agree with this list so much. I always say that if grandma could do without it, then it's not something I need to have. Obviously some things help a lot but I feel like so many products and companies just want us to feel like we can't do it right without spending gobs of money. Thank you for making this list because it proves there are others like me lol

[@nancypatterson374]

I cloth diapered both of mine, basically because it was cheaper. Until we went to visit my in - laws for 2 weeks and I bought pampers. Literally within 3 days my second son , which was 5 months at the time was completely raw . Bought cloth diapers and he healed in days. My boys never had diaper rash, ever with cloth.

[@elisepowell3465]

Well... Those diapers have ick ingredients. That's probably why they rashed. My kiddos never rashed in clean sposies.

[@sarateixeira2561]

Same 😊 plus they look so much better ahah

[@shannahmatecun9996]

Sarah, I love how you aren’t afraid to speak up and say no to certain products and yes to others to suit yours and your family’s values and style! ❤️ You are so kind and respectful, but matter of fact about your choices, and non-judge mental of others. I’m pregnant with our first and only baby and know that my husband and I will be doing things differently from my brother and sister in law. I love that they can do things differently and be kind and matter of fact in that, but we also will be able to do things differently and be kind and matter of fact. Thank you for being a good example in having respect for others and showing me how to have respect others, too! ❤️ Praying for yours and your baby’s health! ❤️

[@aminakle]

Quite nice Intro for people who don’t know you already and discover your Channel for the first time 😄

[@hartmyndsole]

If anyone is interested in cloth diapers, it’s so easy to buy them used! You can get a whole stash for $50-$100!

[@loracorwyn3713]

I agree. I spent $100 on cloth diapers, lasted all three kids. That’s 3 boxes of diapers so less then a couple months

[@loracorwyn3713]

My husband hates it though I’m better that’s the real reason

[@aimeeoleszuk7068]

Hey Sarah! Could you do a video on your favourite baby carriers? Would love to hear from a baby carrying fan the slings/wraps/carriers you like to use for your babies at different ages

[@EmeryShae]

I’m also curious! I was baby wearing my kids from 2007-2015, so I’d love to know what’s new these days.

[@KrystenStrunck]

Agree!

[@meganwiedeman5040]

I can fully appreciate this video. We have 4 girls and planned on being done, so I have been getting rid of everything as fast as my youngest outgrows it. We were blessed with a “surprise” due in mid-July. Our first boy. I have spent plenty of time thinking what I can get by without buying for this baby - and I already leaned toward minimal baby gear. Adding another person into our smaller house has forced me to purge so much more and be creative with storage solutions!

[@dottierose721]

I appreciate that you gave what works for you without badmouthing other mommas who are using these products. It made your opinion easier to listen to and understand.

[@bloomingmay1]

I’ve found my baby chair/bouncer super useful for when I’m on my own with no help - it means I can make a cup of tea, eat, use the bathroom and even shower..x

[@amberclue8936]

YES! Finally a mom that understands me. I'm pregnant with baby #3 (due in June). The only item on your list i used was a cheap basic monitor for when I was in the backyard and could hear if the baby woke up. I'm also a baby wearing mamma!!

[@AC-iw5mv]

❤️

[@BigMami218]

I have a super small apartment and I love my changing table 😂 I’m actually shocked at how much I use it. It’s the only place I change diapers. Everyone is different. Every baby is different. My daughter hates being worn unless she is facing outwards. I wish she liked it.

[@alliejones5199]

Same. I didnt think I'd use my son's changing table either but he's almost 19 months old and it's still our main diaper spot.

[@daisy_rh]

My daughter is almost 2 and I've been loving my changing table again! I took the mattress thing off the top at one point to make space for other things and recently put it back because I'm almost due with my second child. It's just so much easier to change a baby at that height without bending over on to a bed or the ground, especially when I'm pregnant!

[@CiAnMa]

My daughter wakes up when she is moved from the car-seat, so the attachment to the stroller was golden when you had to make a quick stop to the store or something with sleeping baby 🥰

[@catherinehingsbergen9116]

Completely agree!

[@elsaluvsnutella]

I love how much respect Sarah seems to have for babies and infants- treating them almost like mini adults rather than this immature being that has to be overly stimulated and coddled 24/7. idk

[@kelseypowell5641]

I was overloaded with things for my first baby and it was so overwhelming! Totally agree, simple is best! And everything you listed is so true - I don't find them necessary either.

[@milenataylor2]

😍 I love it all. But I have a few favorites: no pacifier idea, awesome, I cannot agree more; no cloth diapers, girl... YES you’re giving yourself grace, and I was in tears, laughing when you took your breath and coffee breaks. AND...I love that you’re not afraid to change/grow/evolve. You rock, Sarah !!!!!!

[@Kristienassar]

As an expecting first time mother, thank you! I hear about so many different toys and “necessities.” It can be overwhelming and stressful. Your video made me realize that I should critically analyze whether these items are truly necessary for my baby’s well-being. Putting the decision making back in my hands and my own intuition releases a lot of stress and removes a lot of items from my registry.

[@LS13.]

Sarah is such an inspiration, her channel is amazing for motherhood!!! (I’m sad she left KZbin but she’s still pretty active on IG with the stories) Congratulations on the baby ❤ hope your birth goes beautifully, with a healthy adorable baby as a result.

[@kathryncoursey8066]

The changing table is life for me bc having to bend over especially in the early postpartums days is hell on my back. I rarely changed them anywhere else. Just my opinions from my experience for any new mom who's interested

[@logandanae8692]

I love seeing different perspectives! I love seeing what’s necessary for people with different lifestyles. It’s funny how we all prioritize things so differently

[@KaylaKarnage85239]

For the changing table, (to each their own) We couldn’t change the baby on the ground without the dog or cat coming along to mess with them and having to keep the floor spotless is hard enough. My husband and I have horrible backs and our bed was really close to the ground so that was also a challenge. I finally caved and bought the changing table which also gave us storage for some of the things we didn’t have space for prior. Everyone is different and different situations work with different people. This just worked for us

[@DemiSiobhan]

People are so extravagant when it comes to babies, I've never had a baby monitor, mamaroo or bottle warmer. My 3rd baby is due in 2 weeks and I haven't bought a single new item of clothing for him either which I am super proud of. It's so rewarding finding beautiful second hand clothing xxx

[@miarodriguez4940]

Watching this makes a lot of sense I’m also pregnant with 4th baby and also got rid of everything so watching this really helps living in a small home thank you

[@desiree.g05]

Excited for the next video ☺️ And this video was very reassuring to me, as a FTM. I tend to feel stressed or guilty almost like we don’t have enough for babe or myself. But I am grateful for what we do have, and hearing a reminder that in reality babies only need the bare minimum + our love and presence.

[@RikkiSpanish]

I know you're probably not looking for product recommendations, but I just have to sing the praises of the Arms Reach Co-sleeper bassinet. It's a Godsend. I know it has the term "Co-Sleep", but it's also great even if you aren't into that. It rolls right up to your bed, so it's like the baby is literally in the bed, right next to you. You can roll right over and nurse your little one there, no problem. It has room to store items under it and in pockets. It cleans up easy-peasy. It gets great reviews. We got for our little one back in 2013, and we still have it in case we actually get to have another baby(I can't seem to get a pregnancy to last). If we could only save one baby item, that co-sleeper would be it. When our daughter was ready, we were able to have her in the bed with us and store the bassinet away. We didn't even plan on co-sleeping originally, but life fell apart and our living arrangements had us co-sleeping because we had no other option.

[@kristaljohnson6305]

This is my favorite bassinet too

[@homatekk]

You are awesome. I am due Sep 4th with my first. Love the truthfulness in a world that says we need all the things.

[@delaneycourcelle]

I was a full-time nanny for a baby of a family who didn’t heat up the breast milk at all! To be able to take a bottle out of the fridge when he got hungry and not have to wait for it to warm up was the hugest blessing.

[@stariehearts2366]

Is it safe for babies to drink freezing cold milk?

[@delaneycourcelle]

@@stariehearts2366 I wouldn’t say freezing cold. But refrigerated cold. Yes, most full-term babies are completely fine drinking cold milk.

[@stariehearts2366]

@@delaneycourcelle wouldn't refrigerated milk give babies a vrainfreeze though? My fridge is at 2 degrees and I'd never feel comfortable feeding a newborn milk that cold. I get vrainfreeze from drinking water at that temperature, lol

[@mikalahill2531]

@@stariehearts2366 I had a baby in NICU and a nurse told me that studies have been done and shows that something about cold milk actually helps stimulate baby to keep them awake and eating, which is what we desperately needed for our preemie who couldn’t stay awake long during feeding. It’s a myth that it gives tummy aches and it doesn’t give brain freeze. We gave him cold milk for awhile until he just decided he didn’t like it that way anymore (probably because I breastfed as well).

[@stariehearts2366]

@@mikalahill2531 thats interesting, thanks for explaining. But y doesmt cold milk cause brainfreeze in babies if it happens to adults?

[@gwh2100]

Love love love! I am 18 weeks with my first baby and never really considered myself "minimalist" but I 100% agree with a lot of these things! We live in a one-bedroom apartment, so a lot of the extras are going to take up so much room and there's simply no need for boujee items that baby won't remember or cherish as much as I would

[@Katie-el3xx]

Can you please do a video telling more about your breastfeeding journey? I would so appreciate hearing more about your experience with each baby.

[@callievick9700]

A cosleeper/bassinet item that is adjustable is the biggest came changer! Every mom (that I've noticed) finds this the most helpful! Congratulations again to you and your family!

[@megghancote1979]

some other ones i hate are: - baby soap/laundry detergent (just use natural/safe unscented soaps!) - baby travel items - wipe warmer - the pee-pee teepee for baby boys - crib bedding (that people literally TAKE OUT while their baby sleeps anyways) - hooded baby bath towels - those baby bullets (just give them adult food cut small, or soft items)

[@kokosalexa6517]

Agree with all but why hooded baby towels? We still use them at 3yo

[@megghancote1979]

@@kokosalexa6517 cuz u can literally use any towel to dry your child, it doesn’t have to be a “baby towel”

[@shelbymp13]

@@kokosalexa6517 we used ours until recently. We loved them. We just made the switch to regular towels and I kinda miss the hooded ones lol

[@kokosalexa6517]

@@shelbymp13 same! We have 2sets towels per person so ofc we got the baby ones when babies were due, so convinient and cute! Actually cheaper than "regular" towels, but I can understand it when someone has like a tone of regular towels alredy

[@kokosalexa6517]

@@megghancote1979 we are all so different... we keep a minimal amount of stuff also towels, so we had to get them new ones, baby ones, when they were born

[@allisongrady3262]

As a first time mom come December I registered and or bought all the things you said you won't be buying LOL however, I love how you explained why you didn't want/need certain items. SO helpful!

[@ana610]

I don't have children. but when I do, I plan on using the strollers bassinet attachment at home for a baby to sleep in, as well as outside on the walks. It's exactly the same, just on the wheels.

[@Xxmisskea]

depends on the pram, most will say only suitable for occasional sleeping. For anyone thinking the same please research first as its not the same at all especially depending on the pram brand etc. :)

[@elisepowell3465]

I enjoyed babywearing so much more than strollers... Actually didn't own a stroller until my first was almost 2.

[@ana610]

@@Xxmisskea yes, of course it should be the right type - the bassinet, not the car seat or the regular stroller that you can recline occasionally. But thanks for warning, I will do more research when the time comes.

[@irenedelia4709]

I did the same thing just added a better mattress in the bassinet cause the original was too thin

[@Xxmisskea]

@@elisepowell3465 i had a c section with my first so struggled but due my second in july and hoping to constantly baby wear. Do you recommend any certain products for it. Currently have a wrap but its quite difficult to put on when already out?

[@savannahwheeler9359]

Sarah...I just LOVE the intentional way you parent, the way you described getting your baby out of the car seat and into the stroller was so sweet and touching. I love how so much of what you communicate in this video isn’t about what makes things easier for YOU but what is most comfortable and comforting for the *baby* so inspirational. The tip of mother I aspire to be :) 💛

[@KristiOliinyk]

In Ukraine cloth diapers costs under $10 each, so here is really money saving thing)

[@macydiy9697]

same here in the usa! some are more but generally they are cheaper! you can spend less the 200$ on cloth but then you spend 1200 in the first year on spossie! so i'm going to cloth for the fact that its cheaper!

[@stargwynn1]

Yeah you dont have to spend a fortune in us or CA. I cloth diapered first baby for under $100. And disposables you spend hundreds and hundreds and cant resell. Its also not a TON more work. An extra load of laundry every few days. That being said, its not for everyone and i definitely say give yourself grace where you feel you need it

[@macydiy9697]

@@stargwynn1 Yes i agree! but she just was saying that she wasn't doing it cause she spent 500$ on cloth but i'm interested what she says in a few months after she has her baby in spossies and realises how much they cost! she will probably spend 500$ in the first 6m or so of the baby's life! i mean to each their own but it seemed like a uneducated decision that she shared she might have different reasons but the way it came across was weird!

[@CamilaGomes-hb8xg]

In Brazil one cloth diaper is around 45-50 each plus the filling.

[@macydiy9697]

@@CamilaGomes-hb8xg wow! how much do disposables cost?

[@caitlin9823]

This video is AMAZING. Baby number one I thought I needed EVERYTHING people recommended but since then I’ve come to love minimalism and simple living and I’m not getting much of anything for the next one!!! It’s so freeing

[@theagoratoad]

I remember not wanting to use a swing for my son, but OMG it was a freaking life saver for us personally! He was super gassy/colicky for a few weeks and it was the only thing that could help him sleep. I remember I got some backlash from friends and family, but I just ignored them after a certain point. For any new parents: You will always receive some form of judgment unfortunately so just remember it's all about what is good for you and your baby

[@elladefleura]

Same for us. We didn't really care too much to buy 1 but we got one as a gift. I can understand that in the long run you don't use a swing very long but it was essential for us in that limited time we did use it. We used it sooo much for the first little bit and then periodically until she could sit up independently. You can find so many swings in basically brand new condition on facebook market place etc. For like $20.

[@christinasmithart5687]

I agree with what you said here. We do a lot of the same stuff. None of my kiddos used a pacifier. Obviously everyone situation will be different. For me personally I get touched out really quickly and unless my baby is crying and fussing and really needs me, I like to have a safe place to lay them. So we have a snuggle me and a rocker/swing for those moments. Sometimes mama needs a shower. We definitely need a sound machine cause our house is very small. Every parents situation is different. But I whole heartedly agree that you don’t need everything! We still have minimal stuff.

[@karengurske]

This video is so helpful! I was watching another mommy blogger and the amount of items she said she bought for her child just was completely overwhelming for me and I couldn’t imagine how I would narrow that list down as a future first time mom!

[@samwilkinson5082]

I feel so understood when I watch these videos... I know what I want for my house to be like with my kids and this just confirms it me

[@carissavalov1888]

You're at peace with babies and kids because the creater of heaven and earth is watching over protecting them 🥰 I know I do

[@brittanyanderson5854]

I had so many of these for my first child and I’m happy to look back and know that I don’t need any of them for my next baby. My daughter wouldn’t sleep in the bassinet we got, she hated a jumper, she hated overstimulating toys, and hated sleeping in a rocker/swing. I feel bad because I got all of those things as gifts from people and I had to let them sit there and never be used because she would cry until I took her out. She was a boob and mommy snuggles kind of girl and that was the best thing for us. Growing up, my family always had all the excessive amounts of things for a baby and so I thought I needed that too. I think it’s a lot more simple than people have been portraying, especially companies who are trying to sell to you. Great video and I love your attitude! ❤️

[@MyWalkLondon]

this is my favorite channel for evening time entertainment.

[@MagicToaster90]

I love your philosophy around baby rearing! It's so simple and natural!

[@VS-dj3ld]

I think having baby monitors is one of those things that is really subjective like anything. If your baby is napping in a “larger” or 2-story house, it can be almost impossible to hear them unless they’re screaming their head off if there’s noise downstairs and you’re in a totally different part of the house. My son also started to climb out of his crib very early on and it gave me peace to be able to hear him do that and make sure he was okay by watching him. Never kept my eyes on the monitor 24/7 I would actually even turn off the screen often just so I could hear the noise once he got up.

[@twoscoopz4944]

same. My baby would try to climb out and get her arms and legs stuck in the rails. She was still really little, not even a year. I had to switch her to a Montessori floor bed.

[@lesliebean4606]

I first saw this when it was posted, and over the last few months of my pregnancy have started to feel overwhelmed with having a 18 month old in cloth, 3 older children, and due with baby #5 Jan 1. I have cloth diapered all of the kids so far, but seem to be running out of gas in that department these days. I know people say "cloth isn't any more work", and I feel like they know it's not true and are clouded with the cloth obsession mentality (trust me, been there). I have recently decided to get rid of ALL of our cloth, except a small emergency stash for things like if there's a bad storm or mom brain forgets to pick up more disposable diapers before we run out. And I've come back and rewatched this video over and over again because seeing another mom actually admit that YES, it is more work is super comforting. And the added bonus of seeing you say "I am giving myself grace here" makes me realize that's why I've been so adamant about doing something that doesn't truly make me happy anymore. It is draining me, mentally, and giving myself grace to let that go, 5 kids in is something I truly needed to be told is OKAY. So thank you, Sarah, as always, for being so candid.

[@Ceci921]

Two of my kiddos didn't take to soothers either but just giving you and your audience an FYI that it is actually recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics to try to use a soother (at night) until 6 months of age because it helps prevent against SIDS. Also thumb sucking can cause lifelong palate issues. My SIL is a dental assistant and can tell when kids were thumbsuckers for a long period of time because of the corrective work that needs to be done on then. Hope this doesn't sound judgy, just wanted to pass the info along. I also read a few articles on this matter so we never let our girls suck their thumbs.

[@Victoria-dz1jz]

I am totally with you on no cloth diapers! I was the oldest of 7 kids, and helped my mom wash countless poopy diapers. When I was pregnant with my twins, I told my husband no way was I doing cloth diapers!

[@tink5337]

On the topic of letting your babies get bored and self-entertain: I was the "car seat baby" because I was the youngest and had to go on all of my mom's errands to take my sisters places. I learned to be perfectly happy watching out my window and observing my surroundings. So long as I had my favorite stuffie, I was happy. And that made the first 10 years of my life easy for my mom.

[@frozendonut722]

You stayed in a car seat for ten years? Lmao😂

[@tink5337]

@@frozendonut722 actually, kids are supposed to be in some sort of booster seat for about 10 years as they have to reach a certain height and weight to safely be out of one, so technically yes.

[@frozendonut722]

@@tink5337 it was a joke...... Also most kids get out of booster seats when they are like 8

[@tink5337]

@@frozendonut722 I didn't get upset at you or anything so you don't need to defend yourself. We can all tell it's a joke you don't have to state that. I was just sharing some information. Not everybody thinks the same and is going to respond with "omg lol" and that's okay. And they get out at 8 either because they grew fast enough or their parents think they are tall enough. Lots of kids are in them until 12 due to slow growth 🤷🏼‍♀️

[@bka2810]

Loved this video first time mom pregnant and super confused about what to buy! I am at 2 months now so long way to go but just watching all these videos easily so I can be ready!

[@jeneraemay1535]

@13:07 I laughed so hard! "that's where I draw the line and I'm like 'you better stay over there'" Sarah you are my favorite :) Thank you for the quality and consistency of your videos

[@catherinemize6856]

New mom to be currently putting together registry and researching products. I love being minimal and you brought up so many great points. Little things like why have a swing “I’m a baby carrier” yes! And no car seat attachment pick up baby move them stretch them. Yes! I really appreciated this video and gave me a whole new perspective on what I really need for my lifestyle. Thanks!!!

[@leiaweaver9443]

Yes to no changing table and no newborn shoes!😆 thank you!!!

[@Iris-gy2mi]

I never put my kids in shoes until they were pulling to stand and walking!

[@daisy_marks]

Sarah, great video! My little one just turned 1 y/o and recently I just had a conversation with my husband about how little of the stuff we bought we actually used (and we were already pretty minimalistic with the stuff we bought). 100% agree that if I had to buy one thing then it would be a sling/baby carrier. I just wanted to mention (in case you choose to breastfeed your baby #4 or any other mommas watching this) do not hesitate to reach out to a lactation consultant! They saved me my breastfeeding journey and gave me tips beyond what can be found in the articles online, but whatever you choose to do I will pray that it brings you peace and joy and your little one is healthy. You're doing an amazing job growing baby #4!

[@Emily-es6zo]

Oh my word hahaha....I can’t agree more about those crazy expensive wooden rockers ...and the Instagram moms 😂😂😂

[@octavia10lol]

i love how she talks about her kids its so sweet and genuine. she just sounds like she smothers them in love but not over bearing like the helicopter moms I see.

[@dovile.n.g]

Hi, I loved Chicco “Next 2 Me” as a basinet for the first 7-8 months - adjusted to bed hight, one side could be pulled down for easy reach/feed.

[@pamelahuff1268]

I love your perspective of the baby monitor! We didn't use one for our first baby and felt so at peace with it.

[@HannahlovesStories]

I’m loving these pregnancy videos! I’m definitely going to come back to this when I have kids!

[@Daymickey]

I found this super helpful! Especially because you're speaking from experience. New moms feel like they HAVE to buy all these things. It's refreshing to hear that it can be truly unnecessary depending on your lifestyle and home set up.

[@Abigail-kd8gu]

“ Just whip out the boob” ... You crack me up 😂

[@clschaan]

I totally agree with your opinions on baby things needed vs not needed.

[@pamwelsh8946]

Hi Sarah. I'm an old lady 64 years of age. It was so refreshing to me that you have this list. I didn't have at least 13 of the 15. Firstly, because I was poor! and secondly the item is just stupid. I used to think the baby wipe warmer was the #1 stupid. But there is a new one. The "Keurig" for bottles. I don't know what it is actually called, but it is basically a Keurig for formula. And it costs like $99. OK, you keep it up!! Love you, your family and your channel.

[@TheKnallkorper]

Haha I saw the keurig for formula, because pulling out 3 scoops of powder is so difficult! Manually doing it is probably faster anyway

[@taylorrevetta159]

I’m also a huge minimalist! Totally agree with these. We actually had a bassinet that went IN our bed and I loved it. I used it for both of my kids. Never had swings or rockers. Just a play mat or blanket on the floor 🙌🏻👏🏻

[@taylorrevetta159]

For my second I didn’t even have a changing table. I’m always changing my kids on the floor, so there was no need for one haha. Plus my girls share a room so it would be way too squished.

[@maddierada6301]

I love your minimalist approach to life and parenting 😊

[@MelonieL83]

Great video! We are in a very similar boat: same gestation with baby number 4 and got rid of a ton of stuff because we were “done”. We are really not trying to bring a ton of bulky gear back in so I couldn’t agree more. Blessing on the second half of your pregnancy and praying for a beautiful delivery and transition to being a family of six!

[@temmimahkohn1780]

Omg my sister could literally sleep through blasting music and a disco ball

[@nekinotnikki]

4:52 I have a hall bassinet my oldest did not care for it whatsoever but my youngest absolutely loved it and so did I. I’m now saving it for my sister for when she has a little one day

[@cal59281]

I hate to tell you this Sarah but you’re an Instagram mom 😂😂

[@angflem6539]

Right ?

[@Anna-ns2eb]

What an honest and useful video. I like how you do everything based on what's actually right for you and how it's beneficial for you and baby both. I feel so understood now. I was and am being constantly criticised and judged by people who even don't have babies or my husband's family for doing things correctly instead of listening to them and watching this for the first time i felt like I'm not a bad mother and you are doing these things too because it makes sense. Thank you

[@Mackey_1687]

Love this! Earth and eden diapers are the absolute best non toxic diapers on amazon!!