It’s no secret that having a baby at home means having a lot of stuff, and with constant chatter about what you need, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. What’s actually useful? What’s worth the investment? To help cut through the noise, the scientists and parenting pros at the Good Housekeeping Institute — along with hundreds of real-life parents — tested and reviewed hundreds of toddler products to uncover the ones that truly deliver.
On the Go
Evenflo’s new infant car seat rotates 180 degrees to make it easier to get your baby into and out of the car. The top handle can play a light show at the push of a button or through the brand’s app. A built-in sensor in the harness clip monitors both the buckle and the backseat temperature. The seat meets updated side-impact safety standards and holds babies up to 30 pounds. The base installs using either a seatbelt lock-off or the LATCH system. This model is especially helpful if you plan to leave the car seat in the car, as stroller compatibility is limited.
TEST RESULTS: Analysts were impressed by the innovation, especially the rotating capabilities and the entertainment. Parents agreed, with one saying, “The rotation is very convenient, and the shape of the handle made it easy to carry on my arm. I like the adjustable white noise and lights for long car trips.”
A new addition to Chicco’s car seat collection, this model meets updated side-impact safety standards and holds babies up to 30 pounds. It also boasts standout features including buttery-soft fabric (a blend of synthetic and Merino wool), a magnetic privacy shade that stays securely in place, and an easy-to-adjust carrying handle. Plus, it’s compatible with many stroller models when used with adapters.
TEST RESULTS: Parents found it easy to install and said it fit well into their cars. They also noted how simple it was to load and unload and that their babies seemed comfortable in the seat. “The car seat felt compact, but my son had space,” one tester told us. Parenting pros praised the luxurious feel of the fabric, calling it noticeably softer than others they evaluated.
The Ergobaby carrier has long been a favorite among parents, and this new version features thoughtful upgrades, including convenient storage pockets and strap indicators to help ensure a proper fit. The wide straps help distribute weight evenly across the shoulders and back for enhanced comfort and support.
TEST RESULTS: Parent testers unanimously said their babies felt secure and that they themselves were comfortable wearing this carrier. Several noted that it was more breathable than others they had used. While some needed a second person to help with positioning, they were able to achieve a good fit. Testers also appreciated the extras: “It’s nice that it has pockets and sun protection for the baby,” one said. “I also like that we can use many different carrying positions.”
Ideal for early infancy, this Konny hybrid carrier features a pocket-style design that makes it easier to secure than traditional wrap-style options. It slips on like a T-shirt, buckles at the waist and includes adjustable straps for a customized fit. Available in two sizes and a range of colors, it’s recommended for babies weighing 8 lbs to 44 lbs.
TEST RESULTS: “The design is perfect!” one parent raved. “It snuggles my 3-month-old baby to me like a wrap carrier but without the hassle of tying yards of fabric around myself.” Another noted, “I liked the airy mesh fabric; it looked stylish but also was functional and helped regulate my body temperature.” All testers gave it top marks for its appearance and being compact for storage.
The full-size Mockingbird stroller grows with your family, easily converting from a single to a double with an optional second seat. It’s compatible with a bassinet for newborns and a ride-on board for older siblings, making it a versatile option for different stages — at a lower price point than many other modular strollers on the market.
TEST RESULTS: Every tester said their kids were comfortable, with one parent noting, “It maneuvered well, even with the weight of two seats.” Another described it as “great for families looking for a flexible, long-term stroller system.” Parents also highlighted the spacious underseat storage and the wide, ventilated canopy.
This premium model from Austlen stands out for its innovative design and unmatched versatility. With unique configuration options — including the ability to convert into a beach-ready wagon — it’s built to accommodate changing needs. Both seats can recline, it’s rugged enough to handle tough terrain and it still folds down for easier storage.
TEST RESULTS: One parent called it “honestly the best stroller you can have for two kids,” noting how the front seat converts to a bassinet and their 3-year-old could stand or sit using an add-on accessory. Testers loved its travel capabilities, with one reporting, “It held both of our children and three suitcases.” Another praised it as “very flexible as needs change and evolve.”
While many compact strollers are best suited for older babies and toddlers, Ergobaby’s model stands out for its ability to recline fully, making it suitable for infants too. Ideal for travel and small-space living, it features true one-handed folding capability, a lightweight design (it is under 17 pounds!) and a built-in strap for easy carrying.
TEST RESULTS: Parents found it simple to navigate and convenient to go out and about with. “It’s a truly one-handed, effortless fold,” one said. “Its compact size made it easy to take into small stores without blocking aisles.” Testers also praised its lightweight frame and excellent maneuverability, with one calling it a "very smooth ride."
A travel-friendly double stroller for babies can be hard to find, but this model from Silver Cross hits the mark. Weighing just 20 pounds, it has a slim profile and stands by itself when folded — ideal for storage and on-the-go use. Magnetic buckles make strapping children in quick and easy, and it’s compatible with select infant car seats.
TEST RESULTS: One parent tester took it to Disney World with her infant and toddler and called it “a fantastic travel stroller,” adding, “People even stopped me to ask about it because they couldn’t believe how compact it was.” Another raved, “It feels so easy to push both our toddler and our baby on any terrain, and it’s especially smooth when turning corners.”
Play & Development
With a mirror, spinners, a bead maze and more, this Montessori-inspired activity center from Skip Hop keeps babies happily engaged. The circular platform supports little feet as they play, then transforms into a tabletop as they grow — perfect for toddlers to stand at or preschoolers to use as a table.
TEST RESULTS: Analysts found it easy to assemble, and parents loved that they could use it over the long term. “I love how multifunctional it is!” said one tester. “Once our baby outgrows the activity center we can keep using it as a table.” Another noted, “It keeps my little one safely occupied when I need to run to the bathroom or do dishes.”
A longtime favorite, BabyBjörn’s battery-free bouncer gently rocks as a baby kicks and moves, no power required. It grows with your child, converting into a toddler chair (a rare feature for this category), and this bundle includes a toy bar for added engagement.
TEST RESULTS: “The movement of the bouncer was one of my favorite features — natural and smooth,” said one parent tester. “It helped relax my baby and gave me a chance to rest my arms.” Parents also appreciated that it folded down for easy storage, noting that it fit right under a couch. They also liked the toy add-on, with one saying it was the first toy her baby ever played with.
Wooden arches give this Melissa & Doug sea-themed gym a high-end look, and it even comes with a play guide for parents. The design is thoughtful and developmentally appropriate: The mat features high-contrast black and white graphics on one side for infant tummy time and a more colorful design on the other side for babies who are rolling or crawling.
TEST RESULTS: Consumer testers gave it top marks, calling it versatile and saying babies loved it. “We use it daily and look forward to using it as our son grows,” one parent said. “The booklet was very helpful in explaining how to use the mat at every stage of development.”
Smaller than a typical play mat, this newborn-size floor cover from Smartbaby Decor is made of neoprene and features a high-contrast pattern that’s easy for babies to see. The continuous design encourages eye tracking, and it can be laid down anywhere you want a clean, supportive spot for tummy time.
TEST RESULTS: Parent testers unanimously praised this mat, with one calling it “a fantastic alternative to large, expensive activity gyms. It offers exactly what you need for the first few months.” Testers said it was easy to clean and convenient to roll up and store. One added, “I’m honestly surprised we don’t see more of these on the market.”
Track your baby’s progress and milestones in this free, easy-to-use app from Pathways.org. It features a robust library of content with tips, activities and ideas to support babies’ development, including insightful videos tailored to their age. The activities are designed by therapists including physical and occupational therapists and speech-language pathologists.
TEST RESULTS: GH tech experts loved the app’s integrated YouTube videos for developmental play ideas. “It has useful tips for every stage and evidence-based information,” said a mom of two. Other testers praised the app’s intuitive design and handy tracking capabilities.
Nursery
This spacious yet lightweight (and therefore easy to move around) Graco bassinet can be manually rocked or set to sway automatically when a baby cries, giving parents flexible soothing options. It includes a vibration feature and connects to a phone via Bluetooth, allowing you to play your own music — though the bassinet itself comes equipped with built-in lullabies and white noise.
TEST RESULTS: A GH tech analyst who’s also a mom called it “super cool,” especially for the versatility it offers. A parent tester also praised the sounds: “I liked all the tech features, but specifically the built-in white noise,” she said. “The cry detection definitely works in responding to our newborn.”
The simple yet helpful Newton Baby bassinet is lightweight, breathable and easy to assemble. It’s designed to be easy to lift and move, and it even comes with a carrying bag for portability. The larger sleep surface accommodates growing infants, and a built-in storage shelf underneath helps maximize space. It also includes a muslin sheet for the mattress.
TEST RESULTS: Our analysts assembled it in about 15 minutes, and at-home testers were impressed. “I love that it was lightweight and easy for me to set up while pregnant and use postpartum,” said one parent. “And because of the large capacity, my child will be able to use this until 6 months.”
It’s rare to find a crib that looks this good at such a reasonable price, but Delta Children — a longtime crib manufacturer — delivers. This model converts to a toddler bed with a separate rail or into a daybed or sofa with no extra pieces required. The mattress height adjusts to three positions as your baby grows.
TEST RESULTS: Testers gave it perfect marks for ease of assembly. One said, “The crib has a really slick style and is more visually appealing than a standard crib. I like the neutral wood, which looks good in pretty much any room.” Others praised its “amazing quality” and called it “sturdy and reliable.”
BabyBjörn’s 2-in-1 design transitions from a bassinet to a crib and can be used for babies and for toddlers up to 2 years old. To convert it, simply lower the mattress height using the built-in zippers and adjust the legs. It’s lightweight and designed to be easy to put together and move around.
TEST RESULTS: “The crib was super easy to assemble, and it’s so lightweight,” one parent tester said. “We love it because we can easily move it around the house and break it down to take to our parents’ house. It’s also a simple, clean-looking crib, not loud or bulky.” In addition, parents praised the breathable mesh sides for the airflow and visibility they provided.
Babies spend most of their time sleeping, so it's important to feel good about the mattress you’re laying them on. Naturepedic’s model is certified organic and designed to be both breathable and waterproof. It features a washable cover and a two-sided design: firmer for infants, softer for toddlers.
TEST RESULTS: Parent testers unanimously gave it perfect scores for overall satisfaction. They called it “higher quality” than other crib mattresses they’d tried and said their babies slept soundly on it. “What a well-made crib mattress!” one raved, and another called it “luxurious” and “sturdy.” Our fiber scientists praised the use of organic materials, which they recommend for infants instead of memory foam.
As the name implies, Happiest Baby’s 5-Second Swaddle is designed to make swaddling quick and simple for parents and caregivers. Flaps inside the cover cross over the baby’s body and are kept secure with Velcro. Other features include smooth organic cotton fabric, a two-way zipper for easy diaper changes, mesh panels for breathability and armholes to allow for transitioning out of the swaddle.
TEST RESULTS: “I liked that it was lightweight and breathable,” a parent tester told us. “The quality seemed very good.” Another called it "“foolproof,” while a third said, “I love the security of the Velcro and the option to later on take the arms out.”
Perfect for keeping babies comfy and cozy without a blanket, this Loulou Lollipop sleep sack is unbelievably soft and smooth. It is made with Tencel lyocell fabric (known for its gentle and luxe feel) and has a two-way zipper for diaper changes. Choose from three sizes and more than a dozen colors and prints.
TEST RESULTS: It amazed both parent testers and GH fiber scientists, all of whom praised the material's softness. Our analysts highlighted the quality construction, and at-home testers loved the adorable prints and the fabric’s breathability, noting that it seemed to regulate temperature. One mom called it "the best sleep sack [her family had] ever tried.”
Combining a night-light, a sound machine and an audio monitor in one, this Wi-Fi–enabled device helps parents get babies down for the night. It features 11 soothing sounds, a time display and customizable light hues. Plus, its compact and rechargeable design makes it easy to take on the go.
TEST RESULTS: A GH analyst who was new mom used this sound machine nightly and loved how convenient it was to set up a consistent bedtime routine and adjust volume in the app (without waking the baby!). Our parent testers also found it an essential nursery addition, with one sharing, “It offered a great variety of soothing sounds that really helped calm my baby.”
A helpful device, especially in the winter, this cool--mist humidifier adds moisture to the air, helping babies get a better night’s sleep. Not only does it alleviate dry skin and help relieve stuffiness, congestion and coughing, but it also can illuminate the room with a cool color-changing night-light.
TEST RESULTS: A GH home expert noted, “It delivered solid output, worked quietly and was easy to maintain in our tests. Plus, the night-light feature was a hit.” Parents praised it for being easy to use and compact to carry and being an overall standout performer.
Featuring a HEPA filter to capture airborne contaminants and an activated-carbon filter to neutralize odors, this Levoit air purifier impressed our pros with its ability to improve air quality. The built-in night-light and more than 10 white and ambient noise options also helped parents create an ideal sleep environment for babies.
TEST RESULTS: Parents described it as “easy to set up,” “cute” and “very quiet.” They liked that it could be controlled from a phone app and found Auto mode, which automatically adjusts filtration levels, extremely effective. “I really liked how I could see the levels of particles it was filtering every day,” said one parent. The nursery setting, which keeps its noise level low while it still purifies the air, was also well loved by testers.
This Eufy monitor offers a crisp picture, rotational capabilities and more flexibility than other models: You can opt to see the display on an included device or on an app. It works with or without Wi-Fi, and there's no subscription needed.
TEST RESULTS: It impressed GH engineers and parent testers alike. Parents were amazed with the camera’s exceptional clarity, “crazy close zoom,” wide lens and night mode. They also found it versatile and user-friendly. “I love having a physical monitor and app options,” one told us, while another said, "The monitor was incredibly easy to set up and I was able to begin using it within minutes of opening the box."
With top-notch video quality paired with sleep and breathing tracking, this monitor gives parents peace of mind along with real-time alerts on a phone should the baby wake up. It also allows for viewing nighttime analytics in the app. Beyond that, it ensures a comfortable environment for babies with temperature, humidity, sound and ambient light monitoring.
TEST RESULTS: Testers gave it high ratings in all areas. On top of the setup being seamless (one tester called it "dummy-proof"), parents found the app extremely intuitive. “It has a lot of cool features that help ease new parent anxiety,” said one parent, and others loved being able to check in on their babies from their phones.
Feeding & Nutrition
For parents who prefer using glass to feed their babies but are nervous about potential breakage, this ingenious baby bottle from Chicco is the perfect solution. The inside (where milk touches it) is a thin layer of glass, while the outside is plastic for durability.
TEST RESULTS: Our experts have been impressed by the innovation for years, and parent testers loved using it. “I think this is an amazing concept,” one said. “I love everything about this bottle.” Another noted, “This bottle solves the issue of not wanting to expose your baby to extra plastic bottles but not having to deal with heavy, breakable glass bottles.” Parents also liked the weight and shape and confirmed that it did not break when accidentally dropped.
This bottle from Mam is packed with useful details, including a base that screws off for easy cleaning and ventilation to reduce air bubbles. It’s also designed to be sterilized in the microwave without additional parts, and though our Kitchen Appliance pros don’t suggest microwaving it after each use, they note that this is a helpful option when traveling.
TEST RESULTS: Parents swore babies accepted it easily, with one telling us, “We’ve had a difficult time convincing our baby to take a bottle, but he took to this bottle on the first try!” Another commented, “My baby, who is mostly breastfed, was able to latch easily.” Parents also praised its easy-to-use features, saying the cap was easy to pop off and the bottle was comfortable to hold and convenient to clean.
Grownsy’s countertop device washes, sterilizes and dries bottles, pacifiers, pump parts and more, saving parents a multistep cleaning process. It comes with detergent tablets and has 26 spray jets for targeted cleaning. You can customize its settings and cleaning modes, and there is a quick-wash cycle when you need the job done fast.
TEST RESULTS: Our Cleaning Lab’s executive director highlighted its ease of use, performance and capacity, and parents said it was a huge time saver, looked compact on their counters and worked quietly. One tester noted that it dried parts better than a dishwasher did, and another (who said it saved her sanity) told us, “It’s a product I would recommend to any new mom.”
Most bottle warmers use hot water to heat the milk, but this design from Baby Brezza uses air instead, eliminating both mess during prep and potential buildup inside the device. It constantly rocks the bottle for even warming, which is also helpful for mixing formula.
TEST RESULTS: GH kitchen appliance pros liked the innovation and the fact that it could hold bottles of varyious sizes. Though some parents said the buttons were finicky and it took longer to warm the bottle than was indicated in the manual, they loved the waterless and even heating. One said it worked “easily and without a mess,” and another noted, “The warming [was] evenly distributed.”
Made with whole milk from grass-fed cows, this organic infant formula from Kendamil meets both U.S. and European standards. It’s naturally rich in MFGM (milk fat globule membrane), a beneficial nutrient also found in breast milk that helps support babies’ brain development. It is also a notable source of DHA, an essential omega-3 fatty acid that is often lacking in U.S.-made formula.
TEST RESULTS: GH’s Nutrition Director likes that this formula contains no palm oil, soy or corn syrup, key reasons she selected it to supplement breastfeeding for her younger child. She also appreciates that this family-run company was one of the first international brands to support parents in the U.S. during an infant formula shortage a few years ago.
Designed for sensitive stomachs, Bobbie’s gentle formula features proteins that are close in size to those found in breast milk, making them easier for babies to digest than those in some other formulas. Instead of commonly used corn syrup or maltodextrin, this formulation contains 100% lactose, the primary carbohydrate in breast milk.
TEST RESULTS: Our nutrition expert highlighted the exceptional ingredients in this organic option, specifically that it’s made without palm oil or soy. She also appreciates that its composition mirrors that of breast milk more closely than many conventional formulas do. While it may not be the perfect fit for every infant, it is a thoughtfully formulated option worth considering for those seeking a gentle choice.
Developed by a neurosurgeon, Cerebelly’s baby food purees are filled with organic fruits and vegetables and packed with brain-supporting nutrients (including choline) that are essential for early cognitive development. The mess-free pouches are perfect for taking on the go.
TEST RESULTS: That these pouches are shelf-stable, made with high quality ingredients and free from added sugars and artificial preservatives made them a standout to our nutrition pros. Babies took to the purees too, enjoying the mild flavor and smooth consistency. As one mom put it, “My baby liked its texture and taste; she happily ate it, so that made me happy!”
Serenity Kids stands out for offering baby food based on global cuisines to help expand babies’ palates from an early age. This Thai-inspired offering is a protein-rich puree with high-quality chicken, organic vegetables and creamy coconut.
TEST RESULTS: Our nutrition pros emphasize the importance of introducing diverse flavors early to support healthy taste development, and this pouch delivers. Parents appreciated the convenience of animal protein in a pouch option. “I was a bit worried about how my daughter would react to the bell pepper, cumin and ginger, as I don't like those ingredients, but she loved it!" one mom said. “It took her a couple of bites to adjust to the complex flavors, but she really enjoyed the mix.”
Made with organic whole milk and real fruits and vegetables, these meltable bites from Once Upon a Farm are perfectly sized to support babies’ pincer grasp development during self-feeding. They’re packaged in a convenient resealable pouch and don't contain added sugar; artificial flavors or colors; or preservatives.
TEST RESULTS: GH’s registered dietitian praised the quality of the ingredients, and parent testers liked that the bag was easy to take on the go and how the melts dissolved quickly. One said, “We were trying baby-led weaning, and this product really helped my child get better at controlling his mouth, tongue and fingers.”
There’s a lot to love about the Mockingbird high chair, starting with how easy it is to assemble. It’s also a breeze to clean, from the dishwasher-safe tray liner to the silicone-coated straps, which are both wipeable and machine washable. Its compact footprint helps it fit seamlessly into most kitchens.
TEST RESULTS: Parents agreed that its cleanability was its standout feature. “My favorite part is the straps. I love that they’re silicone and not fabric — it makes them so much easier to clean,” said one tester, who also appreciated the adjustable footrest with four height options and the removable tray for added versatility.
Evenflo’s high chair offers ergonomic support with an adjustable seat and footrest designed to promote healthy posture as well as a three-in-one design that adapts as a child grows. It converts from a traditional high chair to a toddler chair without a tray, then to a youth chair. The tray is dishwasher safe on the top rack, and the five-point harness keeps the baby secure during meals.
TEST RESULTS: Testers said the chair was easy to clean, that it was simple to load their babies into it and unload them from it, and that transitions between configurations were smooth. They also liked the sleek design. “I love the color and the aesthetic — it looks great in my kitchen!” one parent said. Another noted, “My daughter could so comfortably reach her food. And it doesn’t have bulky legs, which is a plus.”
Perfect for use on the go or in tight spaces, Lalo’s space-saving seat folds up for easy storage and transport. It also offers upgraded features compared with similar hook-on chairs, including an adjustable footrest for added support, a dishwasher-safe silicone mat and machine-washable fabric.
TEST RESULTS: Parents said it was sturdy and easy to set up, and they appreciated the foldable design with its included carrying bag. “I love how this doesn’t take up any space on my floor! It’s easy to wipe clean,” said a mom of an infant. “My daughter feels secure inside, and it’s exceptionally easy to install and uninstall."
Personal Care
Inspired by vernix, the protective outer coating babies are born with, Aveeno Baby’s balm is designed to both moisturize and protect delicate newborn skin. Its thick consistency helps form a barrier on skin, and it’s made with oats (great for sensitive skin) and without fragrance, phthalates or parabens.
TEST RESULTS: GH’s chemist said it “glides effortlessly and feels silky,” while a parent tester praised it for being easy to dispense and rub on a baby’s skin. One parent told us, “A little goes a long way!” and said it left her baby’s skin feeling “supple,” “nourished” and “soothed,” while another said,“I loved how hydrating and soft this lotion was without being too sticky.”
A brand-new product from popular skincare brand CeraVe Baby, this moisturizer is made specifically to relieve itching and irritation caused by eczema. It’s suitable for babies at least 1 month old and contains 1% colloidal oatmeal, which is FDA-approved as a safe and effective over-the-counter skin protectant.
TEST RESULTS: “It actually did relieve itching from my son’s eczema,” one mom told us. “It reduced the redness and severity of the parts that flared up.” Our skincare lead loved that the ingredients “protect the skin barrier and provide deep moisturization.“ She added that it was “easy to apply and spread.”
It can feel as if the drooling is endless once babies start teething. Fortunately, this pack of eight bibs from KeaBabies is a versatile low-cost solution you can leave on throughout the day. The bibs are made with GOTS-certified organic cotton, come in a range of color options and include adjustable snaps so that they’ll grow with babies.
TEST RESULTS: The bibs’ absorbency and aesthetics stood out to parents. “I didn’t need to change the bib halfway through the day no matter how much the baby was drooling, and the baby’s shirt never got wet," one said. Another noted, “The colors are nice and neutral.” Testers and analysts agreed that the fabric was soft and the snaps were easy to use.
It’s hard to know whether your baby will love a pacifier until they try it, but we think this one from Mam is a great start. Ideal for babies 6 months old and older, its open sides allow for airflow against skin, and the glow-in-the-dark center can help them find it more easily if it falls out at night.
TEST RESULTS: It was a hit with our parent testers, with most saying their babies loved it. “This is our favorite pacifier,” one mom said. “My daughter accepted it right away, and it always soothes her.” Another told us, “It is easy for her to hold and grab by herself,” while a third said, “My baby loves this pacifier the most! We have purchased five more of these.”
Say goodbye to baby bedhead with this hairstyling cream from T Is for Tame. It is designed for all hair types and helps smooth flyaways and frizz without the sticky or stiff feeling gels and mousses can leave. You need only a dime-size amount, and you can apply it to both wet and dry hair.
TEST RESULTS: “I absolutely love this product — it works beautifully!” one mom raved. “My daughter is also a big fan of the packaging. Sometimes she gets a bit squirmy while I’m doing her hair, so I hand her the cream to hold.” Another mom who used it on her baby boy said, “It’s really easy to apply and dries soft, which I love most.” Testers and analysts alike praised the subtle, pleasant scent.
Diapering
Though Huggies offers a wide range of diaper options, these are promoted as protecting against diaper rash by pulling in moisture to keep babies’ skin dry. They are also made without fragrance and, as is true of other Huggies diapers, each has a blowout blocker in the back waistband.
TEST RESULTS: These were among the most absorbent diapers we tested, quickly soaking up fluid when placed in a variety of positions. Parents said their babies seemed comfortable wearing them, and there were no rashes reported. Parents also praised the elastic waistband for having a secure yet comfy fit. One summed up her experience by saying, "They are soft, well-made and better [than others] at tackling blowouts."
Touted as the softest diapers available from Pampers, these each have a liner enriched with shea butter to help nourish delicate baby skin. They are made without fragrance, have a blowout barrier in the back, come in cute yet neutral prints and are offered in an inclusive range of sizes, from 0 to 7.
TEST RESULTS: This diaper excelled in our Textiles Lab’s rewet test, meaning the core held fluid inside even when we placed a weight on top. Parents agreed, with one saying, “Great absorbency, no leaks.” It also earned exceptionally high softness ratings both from at-home testers and in a comparative hand-feel test in our Lab.
Despite being less than half the price of other top-performing diapers in our tests, Rascals impressed with standout performance. Though slightly bulkier than others, it checks the necessary boxes for good construction, including by offering protection against leaks at the waist and leg openings.
TEST RESULTS: The materials aced our absorbency tests, meaning the diaper absorbed fluid quickly from all angles and held the liquid in its core. Parents agreed, giving it perfect scores for absorbency. Beyond that, they thought this diaper was soft and protective against leaks. One also noted, “The closure tabs are long and easy to secure across the belly.”
Coterie set out to make its product different from other diapers, including giving it the capacity to hold a high volume of liquid and offering a simple aesthetic on both the diapers and their packaging. The brand offers a monthly subscription model, but you can purchase individual packs from some retailers.
TEST RESULTS: “I’ve heard a lot about these diapers, and they are actually really worth the hype — I couldn’t believe it,” said one tester. “They are soft and luxurious and feel super absorbent.“ Most parent testers agreed, especially praising the softness and fit. Beyond that, these diapers had solid performance in our Textiles Lab’s absorbency tests.
These newly-launched wipes from Raan stand out for being both sustainable and ideal for sensitive skin: They’re made in the U.S. with unbleached cotton (which is why they’re tan instead of white) and a solution of 99% water with a few other ingredients, including organic aloe for moisturization.
TEST RESULTS: Parents described them as thick, soft, sufficiently wet and large enough for just one wipe to clean up messes. “I love the oversize design of these wipes and how effectively they clean up messes,” one parent told us. “I also appreciate how gentle they are on my daughter's skin.” GH analysts also noted that the packaging was easy to use.
Healthybaby’s packaging boast that its wipes have a slew of certifications — including from Made Safe, B Corp and EWG — but beyond that, the wipes are thick and have a unique texture to help clean up messes of all kinds. They also contains organic aloe, organic chamomile and organic calendula to help soothe skin.
TEST RESULTS: The texture and thickness and the absence of odor made these a hit with parents. “They clean solid waste better than any other brand we have used,” said one tester. Another said, “These are a great all-purpose wipe. They are nice and thick for diaper changes, cleaning up mud after the park and wiping off food after meals.”
This set comes with Triple Paste’s diaper rash cream and silicone applicator (complete with a suction base) to help cover skin without a mess. Its ointment contains zinc oxide, which helps both protect and treat skin.
TEST RESULTS: It was loved by parent testers, who unanimously said it alleviated irritation quickly. “The spatula is of course genius as to not dirty your hands while applying the cream to the baby’s tush but still get an even coating on their bottom,” said one. “But the triple paste itself was exceptional, it literally cured my son’s diaper rashes within a few hours. I thought it went on easily as well and had good texture, but what matters most is that it works!”
Diaper Genie is already a trusted name among parents, but its Platinum version has a stainless steel body instead of a plastic one, a noteworthy upgrade. It also has a pedal at the base for hands-free disposal, an odor-locking clamp to trap smells and an easy system for refill bags.
TEST RESULTS: Our at-home testers couldn’t believe how many dirty diapers fit inside and noted how sleek and slim it looked in their homes. They also appreciated all its features: “The hands-free lid is a lifesaver when changing an infant’s diaper,” said one. “The bag inside is extremely easy to remove when it’s time to toss the diapers in the trash.”
Bath
This tried and true support from Angelcare is an easy and affordable way to simplify bath time during early infancy. Not only does it keep a baby secure in the bath with its ergonomic recline, but it also has a quick-drying mesh fabric and a loop for hanging it when it’s not in use.
TEST RESULTS: Testers said it was convenient and comfortable for babies of all sizes, including newborns. “There were no issues with him sliding down, even with all the squirming he did during his first bath,” one mom said. “It also has a solid grip on the bottom of the base so I didn’t have to worry about it sliding around in my tub’s basin.”
Not only is this Pottery Barn Kids hooded animal towel adorable (making for perfect post-bath photos!) but it is also soft, substantially sized and absorbent. Made of 100% cotton, it comes with a matching washcloth and can be personalized as a keepsake or gift.
TEST RESULTS: It earned perfect scores from consumer testers, who said it was just as cute as it was functional. “I love that it is super absorbent and plush,” one mom said. “It keeps my son warm and dry after being in the bath.” Another noted, “It is a good size that we can continue to use as our son grows.”
Johnson’s baby wash and shampoo, already a parent favorite, but now offers a better value and a less-waste solution with this recyclable refill carton. It contains the same popular solution as the original package with its No More Tears formula that’s gentle on baby skin.
TEST RESULTS: All our parent testers highlighted the same three factors. First, they loved the smell. One described it as “classic” and “iconic,” while another called it “nostalgic.” Second, they said it was gentle, never bothering their babies when it got in their eyes. Last, they loved the convenience of the refill container.
A new product from haircare brand Seen, this shampoo and body wash is designed for babies with sensitive skin, including those who are prone to eczema. It's also designed to be tear-free and comes in a convenient pump bottle for easy dispensing.
TEST RESULTS: Our chemist was impressed by the efforts put into making sure its ingredients were safe for skin and the fact that it lathered well during use. Parents also enjoyed using it. “The soap was very nice for my baby, who has sensitive skin,” said one. “It left his skin feeling soft and cleaned him well. It lathered and washed out easily.”
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Lexie Sachs (she/her) is the executive director of strategy and operations at the Good Housekeeping Institute and a lead reviewer of products in the bedding, travel, lifestyle, home furnishings and apparel spaces. She has over 15 years of experience in the consumer products industry and a degree in fiber science from Cornell University. Lexie serves as an expert source both within Good Housekeeping and other media outlets, regularly appearing on national broadcast TV segments. Prior to joining GH in 2013, Lexie worked in merchandising and product development in the fashion and home industries.
Jessica (she/her) is a freelance writer with several decades of experience writing lifestyle content and evaluating home and parenting products. A mom of two teens and two cats, her previous work can be seen in American Baby and Parents.