Baby Gear Regrets: What Moms Thought They Needed Vs. What Actually Helped

Before having kids, most parents think they know exactly what they need. Then reality hits.

The trendy high chair? Outgrown in a year.

The fancy stroller? Useless when baby number two arrives.

The baby carrier? Way too complicated.

New parents stock up on must-have baby gear, convinced it will make life easier. Then the baby arrives, and half of it ends up collecting dust. Some things get used daily. Others? They’re shoved into storage or sold to another unsuspecting parent.

These three moms thought they made the right choices—until they realized they could have picked much better ones. Here’s what they wish they had bought instead.

Mom #1: Emma’s High Chair Regret

"I picked a high chair for looks, not longevity. That was my first mistake."

Emma wanted a high chair that blended in with her home’s decor. She found one that was sleek and modern with a neutral color and soft padding. It looked perfect.

Then, after a year, it wasn’t.

Her toddler refused to sit in it. He wanted to be at the table like everyone else. The once-perfect chair was now just another oversized item taking up space in the dining room.

What Works Better?

A chair that grows with the child. One that starts as a secure infant seat, transitions into a toddler booster, and later functions as a real chair.

• No need to replace it every time the child reaches a new stage.
• Height adjustments make it more comfortable as kids get bigger.
• A removable tray and easy-to-wipe surfaces keep mealtime from turning into a cleanup marathon.

Emma later found a better option. The Momcozy DinerPal High Chair adjusts as children grow, making it something she actually uses long-term.

Mom #2: Lisa’s Stroller Struggle

"I thought I was investing in the best stroller until I had a second baby and had to start over."

Lisa was determined to find a stroller with top-quality materials and all the extras. A huge sun canopy, roomy storage, a smooth ride—it had everything.

Then, baby number two arrived.

Her stroller didn’t have the option to add a second seat. She had to sell it and buy another, which meant spending even more money just to get something that worked for both kids.

What Works Better?

A stroller that starts as a single but can transition to a double when needed. Some even have the option to convert into a wagon when toddlers outgrow their seats.

• No need to buy a second stroller later.
• More flexibility, whether it’s for one baby, two kids, or a toddler who needs a break from walking.
• Certified safe and cozy with ATSM standards and OEKO-TEX fabric — comfort you can count on from day one

Lisa ended up finding something that actually worked. The Momcozy ChangeGo Baby Stroller adjusts as the family grows, which means no more replacing strollers every few years.

Mom #3: Sarah’s Baby Carrier Nightmare

"I spent more time trying to put my wrap carrier on than actually using it."

Sarah was excited about baby-wearing. She imagined herself breezing through errands with her baby tucked in close while she had both hands free.

What she didn’t imagine was spending ten minutes wrestling with a giant piece of fabric every time she tried to put it on.

After a week of struggling, she gave up.

What Works Better?

A structured baby carrier with adjustable straps and built-in support. No complicated wrapping. No endless adjustments. Just a simple way to carry a baby comfortably.

• Quick and easy to put on without help.
• Features 3D abdominal support and an X-shape back design aimed at reducing strain on the shoulders and back.
• Six ways to carry positions to accommodate newborns and toddlers.

Sarah later switched to the Momcozy Move2Fit Baby Carrier, which actually made outings easier instead of more stressful. The structured fit and larger, more cushioned hip seat gave her the support she needed without the frustration of endless wrapping, while the added flexibility and built-in storage made every outing easier and more organized—no more stress or bulky bags.

How to Pick Baby Stuff That Won’t End Up in Storage

Baby registries make everything sound like a must-have, but not everything gets used for long. Some things barely make it out of the box before landing in storage (looking at you, wipe warmer).

Instead of buying things that only last a few months, go for products that grow with your child and actually make life easier.

• Grows With The Baby: Adjustable, multi-use designs stick around longer.
• Easy To Use: If setup feels like a DIY project every time, you’ll stop using it.
• Easy To Clean: Because babies turn everything into a mess.
• Lightweight And Portable: If it’s too bulky to take anywhere, it won’t get used.
• Space-Saving: Oversized baby gear takes up way too much room, and storage fills up fast.
• Comfortable For Parents Too: If it’s a pain to push, carry, or adjust, it’s just another hassle.

The best baby products get used, not tossed in a closet with the never-opened bottle warmer. That’s why brands like Momcozy focus on practical, long-lasting essentials that make parenting easier.

What’s Actually Worth Buying (Or Gifting, If You Want To Be A Hero)

If these moms could go back, they’d skip the short-lived baby gear and focus on things that actually last. Because no one wants to spend money on something that’s only useful for three months before it gets shoved into storage.

If you’re getting a gift for new parents, do them a favor — skip the onesie that’ll fit for five minutes and the gadget they’ll never figure out. Get them something they’ll actually use, not something they’ll politely smile at while wondering where the gift receipt is.

Looking for gifts that new parents will actually love? Check out Momcozy for practical, well-designed baby essentials that don’t just take up space.

BDG Media newsroom and editorial staff were not involved in the creation of this content.