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The Best Baby Gear for Grandparents’ House
The Best Baby Gear for Grandparents’ House

A successful outing with a baby requires a bit of planning and a few key pieces of gear—including when they go visit their grandparents' house. Whether you’re just stopping by for the afternoon or planning to be a regular visits, this grandparent-friendly baby gear guide will help everyone feel confident and prepared. You can think of this as a packing list, or extras to add to your registry (to essential stock grandparents’ house) if you know your baby will be there often. Secondhand items work well for this purpose, but it depends on the gear type—especially used car seats, since there are safety concerns and expiration dates to consider. 

And don’t worry, this isn’t a “buy everything” kind of list. We’re all about starting with the essentials and then tailoring things to your specific needs and lifestyle. We spoke to Dr. Christina Johns, a pediatrician at PM Pediatric Care, for the most up to date safety considerations and advice since some guidelines have likely changed since grandparents were raising their own kids. We also polled real Babylist parents in our weekly newsletter to ask them what kind of gear they found the most useful for visits to grandparents' house and utilized their insight when putting together this guide. 

In general, most of our picks fall into one of the following four categories: a safe place to sleep, diapers and wipes, a few basic childproofing and first-aid supplies and some simple toys and books. We broke the list down to help you make sure you’ve got all of the basics covered. Here’s the top baby gear it’s helpful to keep over at your baby’s grandparents’ house. 

For Sleep

Whether your baby is spending the night or just visiting for the day, a safe place for them to sleep should be at the top of your list of gear for grandparents’ house. That could look like a portable sleep solution, like a playard, or if grandparent will be watching baby more frequently, a crib works, too. A few other sleep-related items like a sound machine and a monitor also come in handy. 

Grandparent tip: “Remember the ABCs for infant sleep—alone, on their backs and in a crib with nothing in it,” says Dr. Johns. This means no lovey or blankets. It you’re worried about baby being too chilly, a sleep sack will (safely) do the trick.

Graco Pack n' Play Close2Baby Seat Lux Playard - Soft Almond.

Graco Pack n' Play Close2Baby Seat Lux Playard - Soft Almond

From $199.99
Buy
Buy

This playard from Graco is a well-priced multitasker and the piece of gear that was mentioned the most by users in response to our grandparent gear poll. The Pack N’ Play is a classic, with a twist: In addition to being a playard that’s safe for sleep, it also includes a wipeable changing area that doubles as a newborn seat and a detachable bassinet. There are wheels on one side so you can move it from room to room, and integrated storage to hold diapers, wipes and other basics.

Yogasleep Nod Sound Machine and Nightlight.

Yogasleep Nod Sound Machine and Nightlight

From $17.99
Buy
Buy

If baby is used to sleeping with a sound machine at home, consider keeping one at the grandparents’ place, too. This one by Yogasleep is under $25, easy to operate and offers 20 different sound options, and there’s also a dimmable nightlight built right in. The familiar noise may make it easier for the baby to fall asleep and stay asleep, especially when they’re out of their usual space. Babies need a lot of sleep but being in a different environment might throw things a bit out of sync. Dr. Johns adds, “Don’t fret too much about that; just do your best to maintain whatever schedule they have at their home that works best for them and their parents [or] caregivers.”

Here's couple more sleep-related baby products to consider getting for baby’s grandparents’ house:

VTech VM5254 5" Video Baby Monitor w/Adaptive Night Light.

VTech 
VM5254 5" Video Baby Monitor w/Adaptive Night Light

If baby will be taking a lot of naps or having frequent sleepovers, a monitor can make things a lot easier on everyone. This one features a clear, large screen and is easy to set up and use.
Halo Super Soft Bamboo Viscose SleepSack - Calm Sage, Medium.

Halo 
Super Soft Bamboo Viscose SleepSack

Since babies shouldn’t sleep with a blanket, a sleep sack acts as a “wearable blanket” to keep them cozy for naps. They’re also the next step once baby starts rolling and it’s no longer safe to keep them swaddled.

For Diaper Duty 

Keeping some diaper changing supplies at grandparents’ house is convenient and means you won’t need to pack them up each time baby goes for a visit. The basics include diapers and wipes (of course) and also a portable changing mat and a diaper caddy to keep everything organized.

Grandparent tip: Since you probably won’t have a whole diaper changing station set up, you’ll likely be changing diapers on your couch or the floor. Just remember if you’re changing them on any elevated surface, you’ll want to keep one hand on them and stay close as all times—babies are wiggly and this will ensure they don’t fall.

Pampers Pampers Swaddlers - 1 (160 Count).

Pampers Pampers Swaddlers - 1 (160 Count)

From $39.77
Buy
Buy

One thing every parent and grandparent can agree on: you can never have too many diapers. Keeping a stash of diapers at the grandparents house means you’re always ready for a quick change—no emergency diaper runs needed.

The Honest Company Baby Wipes - Pattern Play, 576 Count.

The Honest Company Baby Wipes - Pattern Play, 576 Count

From $37.99
Buy
Buy

There isn’t much to these wipes from Honest Company, and that’s exactly the point. They’re fragrance-free and do a great job of cleaning sensitive little bottoms as well as faces, hands and whatever else needs a quick wipe-down. 

Skip Hop Pronto Signature Changing Station - Abstract Dots.

Skip Hop Pronto Signature Changing Station - Abstract Dots

From $29.99
Buy
Buy

This fold-and-go station makes diaper duty easy anywhere. It holds all the supplies, has a built-in changing pad and folds up neatly when you're done. It’s perfect for quick changes on the bed, floor or wherever you find yourself changing their diaper.

Sprucely Felt Diaper Caddy - Heather Oat, Medium.

Sprucely Felt Diaper Caddy - Heather Oat, Medium

From $19.99
Buy
Buy

Pair this soft yet sturdy caddy with the portable changing mat for a no-fuss diaper setup. It keeps diapers, wipes, creams and more all in one spot and is super easy to tote from room to room.

Here are a few extras you may want to stock in your stash, like hand sanitizer, diaper cream and bags to toss poop diapers:

For Feeding

Whether baby is still drinking pumped breast milk or formula or they’ve moved on to solid food, it’s a good idea to have a few things for feeding. 

Grandparent tip: Keep in mind that  babies under the age of six months should not get water, says Dr. Johns. They don’t need “any extra fluid other than breast milk or infant formula, especially in the form of free water. They get enough [water] via these other sources,” says Dr. Johns.

Boppy Boppy x Babylist New Nursing Pillow with Organic Cotton Cover - Camel Stitch Stripe.

Boppy Boppy x Babylist New Nursing Pillow with Organic Cotton Cover - Camel Stitch Stripe

From $62.99
Buy
Buy

A great way for grandparents to bond with their new grandchild is through feeding and snuggling. This nursing pillow helps support the baby, so they’re in the right position for bottle feeding. The cotton slipcover comes off for easy washing, and you can spot-clean the insert if needed. Just remember, a nursing pillow should only be used when feeding baby.

Dr. Brown's Anti-colic Options+ Narrow Baby Bottle - 4 Oz.

Dr. Brown's Anti-colic Options+ Narrow Baby Bottle - 4 Oz

From $18.98
Buy
Buy

If baby is still drinking breast milk or formula, you’ll want to have a few bottles at the ready. Whether parents bring pre-filled bottles or you’re mixing formula yourself, having clean bottles on hand makes feeding easier and ensures you’re prepared for longer visits or last-minute drop-offs. A set of two to three bottles should be plenty, along with a bottle brush and drying rack for quick clean-up.

Chicco Bento 3-in-1 Booster Seat.

Chicco Bento 3-in-1 Booster Seat

From $34.99
Buy
Buy

Looking forward to adding an extra seat at the table? It may feel like eating a meal with your grandchild is a long way off, but most babies start solid foods around six months old, so you’ll need a place for them to sit before you know it. You can purchase a full-size high chair if you have the space, but we recommend opting for this booster seat instead. It’s under $40 and straps onto almost any type of chair. The smooth plastic seat is a breeze to clean (no tiny crevices where food can get stuck here!) and you can use the included tray for younger babies, then remove it and use the seat as a booster right at the table once baby gets a little older.

Aden + Anais Cotton Muslin Snap Bibs (3 Pack) - Keep Rising.

Aden + Anais Cotton Muslin Snap Bibs (3 Pack) - Keep Rising

From $24.99
Buy
Buy

Bibs are another feeding basic you’ll want to have a few of at grandparents’ house. These cloth ones help keep milk drips contained and also work for the drooling phase brought on by teething. We also love these silicone pocket bibs for feeding solids.

AEIOU Future Foodie Gift Set - Oat Milk.

AEIOU Future Foodie Gift Set - Oat Milk

From $50.00
Buy
Buy

Once baby starts solids, they’ll need their own utensil set designed for little hands for mealtimes during visits. This one comes with a suction bowl with lid, suction divided plate, a sippy cup with straw, two spoons and a bib.

For Care & Grooming

Keeping a few care and grooming items on hand means you’ll be ready for anything from runny noses to sharp little fingernails. Baby-safe nail clippers or a file, a soft-bristled hairbrush, baby lotion and a digital thermometer are all great to have around. You might also consider a nasal aspirator and some infant-safe pain reliever (with parent approval) for unexpected sniffles or teething woes.

Grandparent tip: It’s important to share baby’s pediatrician and advice nurse phone number, as well as other important contact information in case of an emergency—like poison control—and know where the nearest hospital is.

Frida Baby Baby Grooming Kit.

Frida Baby Baby Grooming Kit

From $14.99
Buy
Buy

This basic grooming kit comes with a pair of nail scissors and a file, a little silicone toothbrush and hairbrush. 

Braun ThermoScan7 Ear Thermometer.

Braun ThermoScan7 Ear Thermometer

From $55.42
Buy
Buy

When baby isn’t feeling well, a reliable thermometer is a must-have—and the Braun ThermoScan7 is a popular pick among both parents and pediatricians.

Mustela Newborn Baby Arrival Gift Set.

Mustela Newborn Baby Arrival Gift Set

From $36.49
Buy
Buy

Having a few baby-friendly hair and skin products on hand will make bathtime and any baby sleepovers a little easier. This bundle includes hair and body wash, a moisturizing balm, lotion and a bubble bath.

Babylist Baby First Aid & Grooming Kit.

Babylist Baby First Aid & Grooming Kit

From $69.99
Buy
Buy

Keeping your medicine cabinet stocked with some basic health and first aid products is generally a good idea, but it’s even more critical when there’s a baby in the picture. This kit was curated by emergency room doctors and parents and is filled with hospital-grade supplies and soothing items for baby’s first year and beyond. It stands out from other first aid kits for two reasons: the items are full-size (think things like gauze, chest and foot rub, alcohol pads, a rectal thermometer, nail scissors and more) and it includes step-by-step guidance on how to use them, plus when to level up and call the doctor, 9-1-1 or head to the ER.

Extra Gear

Depending on how often baby visits—or how long they stay—it might be worth keeping a few pieces of baby gear at grandparents’ place to make things more comfortable for everyone. A portable bouncer or rocker gives baby a safe place to hang out while you’re nearby. If you’ll be taking baby on walks around the block, a lightweight stroller can also come in handy.

Grandparent tip: Choose gear that folds up easily or is lightweight if storage is a concern. Many newer baby items are designed with portability in mind, which is great for smaller spaces or occasional use. Also, keep in mind that most strollers can only be used for younger babies with a bassinet attachment or infant car seat and adapters.

Graco Ready2Jet Compact Stroller.

Graco Ready2Jet Compact Stroller

From $159.99
Buy
Buy

Designed with quick trips and travel in mind, the Graco Ready2Jet is a compact stroller that doesn’t skimp on features. It’s lightweight, folds up quickly and includes a carry strap for easy transport—perfect for keeping in a closet or the trunk of your car. (It’s also compatible with Graco infant car seats, which makes it a smart pick if baby’s using one of those.)

Chicco Float Baby Bouncer Seat - Cloud.

Chicco Float Baby Bouncer Seat - Cloud

From $144.49
Buy
Buy

We get it—the thought of putting down your baby for even a few seconds may make your parent (and grandparent) heart skip a beat. But just in case you need a little break, keeping a bouncer on hand is something many parents found helpful.

Don’t Forget About Babyproofing

There’s a lot to consider if you’re thinking through babyproofing your home. Start with this childproofing checklist from an ER doctor that covers what you’ll need to do to prevent some of the most common household-related injuries. Here are a few basics to get you started:

Grandparent tip: Babies grow fast and their mobility changes quickly. One month they’re rolling over, the next they’re crawling (sometimes at lightning speed). It’s always a good idea to do a quick scan of your space before each visit to catch any new hazards they might now be able to reach.

Jool Baby Outlet Plug Covers (32 Pack) - Clear.

Jool Baby 
Outlet Plug Covers (32 Pack)

This pack comes with 32 clear covers to keep tiny fingers out of unsafe spaces.
Dreambaby Brooklyn Converta Playard & Wide Barrier Gate.

Dreambaby 
Brooklyn Converta Playard & Wide Barrier Gate

A versatile playard and wide gate combo helps create a secure, designated space where little ones can play freely, whether it's in the living room or out on the patio.
Safety 1st Easy Install Gate (2 gates).

Safety 1st 
Easy Install Gate (2 gates)

These easy-to-install gates are a quick way to babyproof your home—without tools or stress.
Dreambaby Furniture Anchor - Silver.

Dreambaby 
Furniture Anchor

You'll also want to make sure any larger pieces of furniture (like dressers and shelves) are safely secured to the wall.
Jool Baby Multi-Purpose Adhesive Child Safety Strap Locks - White, 8.

Jool Baby 
Multi-Purpose Adhesive Child Safety Strap Locks

You can use these to secure cabinets, drawers, trash can and more.

Toys, Books + Extras

Having a few toys and books on hand can make visits more fun for everyone. Think soft toys, sensory items, board books and simple stacking or cause-and-effect toys. You don’t need a huge collection—just a few age-appropriate options that are easy to clean and safe for baby to explore.

A cozy blanket for floor play, an extra pacifier (or two) and even a baby bouncer or activity gym can also be helpful to have around, especially for longer visits.

Grandparent tip: Be mindful of small parts or older toys that might not meet current safety standards. Babies love to put everything in their mouths, so make sure all toys are age-appropriate and don’t pose a choking hazard. When in doubt, check the packaging for age guidelines—or ask the parents what they feel comfortable with.

Car Seat Considerations 

There will be times when grandparents will be driving baby from place to place—so you’ll need a car seat. The easiest option is to purchase an additional base for baby’s infant seat to install in grandma or grandpa’s car. If you’re shopping for a separate infant or convertible car seat option to leave with them, Jen LaBracio, a certified passenger safety technician and Babylist’s senior gear editor, says you should prioritize a seat “that's easy to install and easy to use. And for an infant seat, [one that is] fairly lightweight as well.” 

But the guidelines have definitely changed since grandparents were driving their own children around. 

One of the most significant changes involves extended rear-facing guidance. “Rear-facing seats spread the crash forces across the shell of the seat, protecting your child's head, neck and spinal cord—the most vulnerable parts of their bodies,” LaBracio explains. 

Car seat safety is a huge subject, with a lot of specifics. LaBracio's biggest piece of advice for grandparents who will be driving their grandbaby around is to “Learn about the car seat your grandchild will be using. Read the manual—then read it again. (Car seat manuals can be long, but they're the best way to learn about how to use your seat.) And if you think you need help with installation or correct usage, reach out to a local Child Passenger Safety Tech. They can teach you how to install your seat properly and how to use it.”

A few infant car seats she recommends include:

Joie Mint Latch Baseless Infant Car Seat - Shale.

Joie 
Mint Latch Baseless Infant Car Seat

Another lightweight infant car seat that doesn’t need a base to install.

And if you’re looking for a one-and-done convertible car seat, here are a couple she recommends:

Joie Chili Spin 360 2-in-1 Rotating Car Seat - Mocha.

Joie 
Chili Spin 360 2-in-1 Rotating Car Seat

This one has a cool 360 rotation that makes it easy to get baby in and out of the car.
Britax Poplar Convertible Car Seat - Stone Onyx.

Britax 
Poplar Convertible Car Seat

This convertible car seat is affordable, rather easy to install and will grow with baby.

You want to avoid any aftermarket car seat accessories—like head cushions or strap covers—and avoid attaching toys to the seat as they can become projectiles in the event of an accident. Last but not least, car seat buckles can be tricky to release for those who have arthritis, hand pain or long nails. But this weirdly useful too makes it easier to unbuckle even the stiffest seat clips.

UnbuckleMe Car Seat Buckle Release Tool

From $14.99
Buy
Buy

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