by Vanessa Bartlemus

Created on: September 19, 2009   Last Updated: January 16, 2010

Any new parent is definitely overwhelmed by all the baby products available these days. On the Babies' R Us registry checklist, there are over 100 categories of must-have items to choose from. So, besides the obvious clothes, diapers, and a place to sleep, what baby products are really going to help you when you need help most? Here are the top ten products I (and many of my mom friends) found most useful:

1. Boppy Pillow: This is useful in so many ways. It's great to use while breastfeeding baby. After my c-section, my boppy pillow was a lifesaver, keeping my daughter from putting pressure on my incision. It also gives your arms a rest. For moms who've delivered vaginally, these are great to sit on, especially if you've had a painful episiotomy. When baby's a bit older, you can use it for tummy time. Just prop baby's arms and chest onto the pillow. Finally, when baby's learning to sit, put it in back of her in case she falls backwards.

2. Swaddling blanket: This helps baby feel safe and secure even when she's not in your arms. It can also help calm fussy and colicky babies.

3. Sling, wrap, or baby carrier: In the first few months, you will probably feel that it's impossible to get anything done. Your baby wants to be held all the time, and it's no surprise that he wants to be next to you all day. You represent comfort to him. So what do you do when every time you put him down he starts crying? Don't put him down! Get a sling, wrap, or baby carrier and baby will feel safe in your arms all day long. With some practice, you can even breastfeed while baby's in the sling! And don't worry; you are not spoiling him by this!

4. Travel System: You're going to buy a car seat and a stroller anyway, so why not buy them together and save money? Added benefits: If baby falls asleep in her car seat, you don't have to wake her up by taking her out of it, you just have to take the car seat out of the base and pop it into the stroller. Most travel system strollers can also be used without the car seat.

5. Baby book and baby calendar: Not only is it lots of fun to write down all of your baby's milestones, but these will also make great keepsakes for your child when he or she gets older. I love looking at the baby book and baby calendar my mom made for me when I was a baby, and I like comparing them to the ones I'm making for my daughter now!

6. Rocking chair or glider: If you have a bit of extra money in the baby budget, get one of these! You deserve one! Nothing beats rocking

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