Practical Guide to Baby Essentials at Grandparents’ Place

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Sleeping

A safe place to sleep and put your kid down is essential, especially since babies and young children need frequent naps and a consistent sleep environment to stay well-rested and happy.

• Pack ‘n Play: For younger children this is an affordable choice that’s easy to set up and take down, can be used for sleep and/or play, and comes with a carrying case to keep it protected while in storage. 
• Foldable crib: If you’d prefer a crib for more comfort and durability, the Dream On Me folding crib is light weight, on wheels, and condenses down to more easily move around the home and fit into a storage space.
• Mattress: If you’re going with the crib option, you’ll also need a mattress. This one from Sealy is breathable and has two varying sides – a firmer one for infants and a slightly softer one toddlers – providing comfort as children age.
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  • Video monitor: Instead of spending a lot of money on a video monitor, a low price audio only monitor often does the trick for short visits. 
  • Sound machine: While the high end sound machines have a lot of great features, for a shorter trip, you can get away with a low cost portable sound machine. With a convenient clip, these are easily transported and can be used during travel and while you’re staying with the grandparents. 

Eating

Sharing a meal together is a great way to bond as a family. Ensuring your child has a comfortable seat at the table will help them engage and enjoy family meal time. 

• High Chair: The Graco 6-in-1 high chair is our pick for grandparents because not only does it fold up for more compact storage, it can be used as a high chair, booster seat, and step stool. The versatility on this one ensures you’ll continue using it as your kids grow.
• Table Chair: For a more compact option and lower price point, the Inglesia Fast Table Chair has high quality and machine washable fabric, easily and securely attaches to most tables, and allows your child to more closely join in on family meals.
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  • Instead of buying bottles, a rack, and a bottle brush, get this on-the-go kit and bring the gear with you on all of your travels. You’ll need bottles on the ride/flight anyways, and the compact set doesn’t take up much space in your bag.
  • Similarly, when your child starts using plates and cups, you can leverage plastic ones that your parents or in-laws might already own

Getting around

If you aim to avoid lugging tons of baby stuff when traveling, keeping a convertible car seat and an all purpose stroller at the grandparents can save a lot of hassle.

• Car seat:  At a lower price point, but with great safety ratings, the Graco Contender Slim Convertible Car Seat is an excellent buy for grandparents. These can be used until your child is 65 pounds, and can be worth the money to avoid having to fly with a carseat or for local grandparents to have on hand in case they need to pick your child up at the last minute. 
• Stroller: A foldable jogging stroller offers compact storage when not in use and versatility to navigate varying terrain from sidewalks to gravel paths. While this budget-friendly option lacks some of the features offered with a high end stroller, it still has many premium features such as great storage, convenient cup holders, and a child tray. There’s even a double stroller option if you happen to have or plan to have two little ones.

Diapering

Portable changing mats can be great on the go, but if you’re staying for a while, it’s easier to have a set spot to change your child and store all their diapering needs.

• Diaper pail: Dirty diapers can stink up the house if you’re throwing them in the trash. To contain the smell, it’s worth getting a diaper pail. Though not the most aesthetically pleasing, the price is right on the diaper genie.
• Changing Table: All you really need is a  wipeable (always wipeable!) pad. This one checks the box at a competitive price.

Bathing

A few simple bath-time items can enhance comfort and safety while making the experience more enjoyable for everyone

• Bath Products:  Johnson & Johnson packages a set of baby items that includes soap/shampoo, lotion, and diaper rash cream. It’s a good size for infrequent visits and convenient to buy together.
• Bath lounger:  In a tight spot, I’ve held my infant in the bath or sink, but it’s more enjoyable to be able to put them down in a lounger to give your arms a break and baby a safe spot to lay while scrubbing them clean.
• Step Stool: For slightly older children, a step stool is essential for reaching the sink for teeth brushing, and the toilet for potty training. A simple yet sturdy stool allows your child to access these on their own.
• Knee Pad: If grandparents like to help with the bath, this bath kneeler provides comfort and access. With a quick-dry material and a non-slip base that stays securely in place, older grandparents can more safely and comfortably participate in bathtime. 
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  • Rinser: The bath rinsers are inexpensive, but to save some money and space, you can use a plastic cup instead.
  • Towel: Infant and toddler towels are not a necessity and a regular towel can be used instead. Some kids even enjoy luxuriating in the bigger sized towels.

Playing

Most of the play items are age specific with tight ranges and can be bulky. In an effort to keep the explosion of kids toys to a minimum, use what you have. Pack a few toys for the trip and leverage them while you’re there. Instead of a play mat, a thick blanket can suffice. The pack n’ play can be used as a play pen, and a safe place to put your child down. If you do want a bouncer or jumper there are some inexpensive options that can keep your child entertained and confined.

By keeping a thoughtful selection of essentials at the grandparents’ house, you can make each visit smoother, less stressful, and more enjoyable for everyone. With practical, space-saving items that stand the test of time, you’ll cut down on packing, save money, and keep their home free of unnecessary clutter, leaving more room for what really matters: making memories together.