Maybe it's because I own a fairly ridiculous amount of shoes, or maybe it just goes for every mama-to-be, but whatever the case, since the beginning of my pregnancy people sort of assumed I'd go crazy on the baby stuff. :) However, the truth is that I'm generally not much of a collector, always preferring quality over quantity. Moreover, the sheer amount of available baby things out there is pretty overwhelming, and how is one ever to know which stroller, co-sleeper, swaddle blanket or baby chair will make you and your mini the happiest people on earth? True to form, I did a lot of research to avoid ending up with a pile of stuff that would never be used (the worst!) and only assemble things that really contribute to your quality of life as a new mama - the no. 1 thing on the agenda when you welcome a teeny one into the world. So if you're currently on the hunt for those must-have baby pieces, these are my 5 newborn baby essentials that really make a difference!

BABY SLING MEZAYA BABY

Fact: newborn babies are always in for extra cuddles. From day 1, Gabriel really loved to be close to our bodies; it just has such a calming effect on him! But you guessed it: having to carry around a little human all day can be a little bit impractical, not to mention exhausting. And that's when this genius baby sling comes in so handy. It's one of the only truly stylish versions I have come across, available in luxurious all-natural fabrics (the linen and silk ones are my faves) and pretty colours that are easy to blend in with your outfits (gotta keep it stylish :)). On top of that, it's so easy to put on, a must for every tired parent's clumsy hands!

ORGANIC COTTON BABY SLEEPING NEST BABYNEST

Such a simple but inventive piece is this organic cotton baby sleeping nest, that I promptly bought in 2 colours because I use it so much! When your baby's still tiny, it keeps him safe, comfy & secure in his seemingly so big crib. One permanently stays in Gabriel's crib at home, while the other one goes with us when we visit my parents or girlfriends, transforming every couch or big soft surface into an instant bed for our little man. So practical, right?

HIGH CHAIR STOKKE STEPS

The nicest thing about this chair is the fact that no matter how teeny your baby is, it lets you all sit together around the dining table - totally one of the cosiest family rituals ever! As a natural born foodie it's one of the things I looked forward to the most, and I've heard it's also a great way to create a soothing atmosphere to have your baby eventually try his first solid food. If he sees mama & papa enjoy so many things, here's hoping that he'll be eager to copy that soon! :)

RELAXING CHAIR 4MOMS MAMAROO

I had heard so many great things about this chair, and Gabriel absolutely loves it too! You can choose between different bouncing modes and soothing tunes (the Kangaroo bounce and heartbeat tune are the most popular ones over here :)), and yes, this chair has been known to avoid major meltdowns and assure some extra peace & quiet. Plus the subtle white-&-grey design looks pretty in your home too, a nice change from all the overly colourful baby pieces out there!

COSY SLEEPING BAG THÉOPHILE & PATACHOU

It was kind of a given from the start that this baby was going to be on the road a lot. So just as his baby sleeping nest this sleeping bag has been on constant rotation! It's just the easiest thing to take with us wherever we go, because despite being super soft and warm, it's also pretty light-weight. I love that it gives our boy enough space to move his little (long!) legs around, but still feels snuggly & cosy - essential for a good night (or at least a couple of hours :)) sleep. Needless to say I also really love the clean classic 100% cotton design, that totally matches the feel of our Théophile & Patachou baby furniture. Nothing to improve there!

What are your favourite newborn baby essentials? Anything that works wonders for a crying or restless baby? I'd love love love to hear! :)