Meet the Winners of the 2025 What to Expect Mom Must-Have Awards

As your bump grows, your hips and back take on more pressure while you sleep, which can be uncomfortable and even painful. What to Expect moms swear by the Momcozy U-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow to help make pregnancy sleep a little easier.

Momcozy’s pillow, which was also a 2023 winner, has a U shape that hugs and gently supports your entire body, including your head, back, neck and feet. The pillow is so plush and the material so soft and cozy, that many moms say they continue to use it postpartum to provide support for nursing, sleeping or just sitting. 

Good to know: There are a number of different color and fabric options, but if you tend to run hot, you’ll want to choose one that's made of cooling fabric.

Packed with all the nutrients pregnant women need — like folate, vitamin D, iron and DHA — it’s no surprise that Nature Made’s Prenatal Multivitamin won this award for the fifth year in a row. But what our community members love most about these prenatal vitamins is how gentle they are on the stomach and taste buds. Many moms praised the softgel capsules for being easy to swallow, and free from both the chalky aftertaste of uncoated pills and the excess sugar of gummy vitamins. Nature Made is also USP-verified, a third-party certification that tests supplements for quality. As always, consult your doctor before adding any new supplement to your diet.

Good to know: The jars are available in a number of sizes, from 60, 90 or 150 softgels, with one softgel equaling a serving.

The reality is, no one wants to break the bank on bump-friendly clothes. After all, you’ll only need them for a few months and may only wear them once. That’s why so many What to Expect moms love Old Navy. Its maternity line nails that sweet spot between cozy and cute, with buttery-soft leggings, bump-hugging dresses, and roomy denim that actually fits. You also won’t have to splurge on a whole new wardrobe, either. Moms-to-be love the pricing and the fact that they’ve been able to wear most pieces all the way from the first trimester through postpartum, so you can still feel pulled together whenever you head out the front door. 

Good to know: Old Navy’s maternity leggings and jeans come in short, regular, and tall lengths —  because one-size-fits-all never works during pregnancy. Even better, the brand is almost always hosting a sale. 

Graco continues to win over parents for that first car ride. When asked why voters chose it, time and again they referred to the SnugRide SnugFit DLX’s top safety ratings. It also boasts an intuitive install that makes setup less stressful. This infant car seat features the brand’s SnugLock technology system — you’ll hear a definitive “click” when the seat is correctly installed in its base.  

Parents also love the car seat’s anti-rebound bar for extra protection and the Silent Shade canopy that adjusts quietly without disturbing baby’s nap. With all those bells and whistles, you’d think this would weigh a ton, but it’s actually one of the lightest models on the market, making transferring from the back seat to your stroller even easier. But perhaps the best part is the fact that it doesn’t cost an absolute fortune.

Good to know: Fits babies from 4 to 30 pounds and up to 32 inches. Plus, the easy-to-remove seat pad is machine washable for inevitable messes

For the fourth year in a row, What to Expect parents have named Graco’s 4Ever DLX 4-in-1 the Best Convertible Car Seat, with some saying it’s the only car seat their child has ever used. That makes sense, given its longevity. As with all convertible car seats, the 4Ever DLX 4-in-1 adapts to your growing baby’s needs. But this particular car seat takes it the furthest, giving parents up to 10 years of use with its final stage: a backless belt positioning booster that’s suited for children between 40 and 120 pounds. Talk about stretching your dollar!

It’s also easy to install, thanks to the brand’s In Right Latch system, which allows you to quickly click it into place. However, some parents note that the harness can be difficult to tighten and the straps can be tricky to loosen, which isn’t ideal if you’re in a hurry. Parents also appreciate how durable and high-quality the materials are, with many saying it’s easy to clean and has held up well to toddler wear and tear.

Good to know: The car seat cover can be taken off — without uninstalling the seat — and thrown into the washing machine for easy cleaning.  

Although Uppababy offers several excellent options, the Vista receives the most praise from What to Expect parents, deeming it the Best Stroller Brand for the seventh consecutive year. 

Wondering what makes this pricey stroller so appealing? To start, the Vista V3’s shock-absorbing wheels make for a smooth ride, while the rain shield, bug shield and UPF 50 canopy keep your little one safe from all the elements. There’s also the massive basket beneath the seat that can hold up to 30 pounds of baby gear. Meanwhile, compatible accessories like the carry-all parent organizer and changing backpack provide more space to store your essentials. The Vista also folds and stands on its own for easy storage.

But it’s the stroller’s longevity that really wins over parents. Though it’s undeniably expensive, you can tap this stroller from the newborn stage up to 50 pounds. As your family grows, it's capable of accommodating up to three children. How many strollers do you know that can do that?

Good to know: One of the most compelling reasons to invest in the Vista over other Uppababy strollers is if you think you’ll continue growing your family in the next few years. But if you don’t think you’ll need a convertible stroller, you can save money and get many of the same features by purchasing the Uppababy Cruz V3. There's also the travel-friendly Minu and G-Luxe.

Let’s face it, toting your baby around can be a literal pain on your arm, back and hips. Fortunately, Ergobaby offers a supportive and comfortable line of carriers to make the task a little easier on your body. There are many varieties to choose from, including the wrap-style that’s ideal for newborns, but our community is partial to Ergobaby. 

This best-selling carrier (formerly the Omni 360) allows you to hold baby four ways: in front and facing you, in front and facing out, on your hip or on your back. The Omni Classic features a hidden baby hood for sun protection and a pillow to support their neck. But the Ergobaby carrier isn’t only concerned with the baby's comfort. It also has a thick lumbar back pad and extra-padded shoulder straps to help reduce any added strain. 

What to Expect parents appreciate that this carrier is comfortable for both adults and babies, as well as how easy it is to adjust and switch between caregivers. Because it grows with your baby and offers excellent back support, many parents say they were able to use it far longer than they expected. 

Good to know: It's machine washable and has a storage pouch to hold diapers and other essentials.

You’ll often find yourself fighting the urge to buy every bodysuit, sleeper and outfit set. But at Carter’s, you can give into the temptation every once in a while thanks to its low prices. In addition to the affordability, What to Expect parents rave about the retailer's adorable designs and vast size range, offering clothes from preemie to 14. (And unlike many other baby clothes brands, Carter’s also tends to run true to size). Though the clothes are affordable, Carter’s fabrics are also high-quality: Parents note that they tend to hold up well and don’t stretch out over time, even after many washes.

Also good: Parents like that Carter’s has several annual sales, including the semi-annual Baby Love Sale, allowing them to further stretch their dollar. Right now, the Merry Cozy Flash Sale is knocking up to 50% off online faves with promo code MERRYCOZY. 

For an outfit that What to Expect moms love, try this on-trend blueberry bodysuit, while it's on sale for just $6. 

Good to know: Not only does Carter's frequently have sales, but you can join the brand's loyalty program to earn points that convert into additional discounts off future purchases.

For many parents, the Baby Björn Bouncer Balance Soft is the ultimate soother, thanks to its natural rocking motion. The ergonomic design gives baby just enough support, and it can adjust to three different positions. If you need to take it on the go, it also folds flat and at just 4.6 pounds, it’s incredibly lightweight. At $210, it’s definitely an investment, but many parents say it’s well worth the price, especially when you consider that you can turn the fabric seat around to use it as a children’s chair.

The bouncer can accommodate babies up to 20 pounds, but you should retire it when baby starts trying to sit up. As a children’s chair, it can work for little ones up to 29 pounds. Plus, the seat cover is removable and machine-washable, so it can take on spit-up and blowouts (the brand recommends using a warm water setting).

Good to know: Though bouncers, swings and rockers are excellent for soothing fussy babies, little ones should never sleep in these products, as the inclined seat puts your baby at risk for suffocation. If she falls asleep in the Baby Björn Bouncer Balance Soft (or any other inclined product), move your baby to a safe sleep environment (such as a crib, bassinet or playard) right away.

Breast pumps have become increasingly high tech in the past few years, and there are more wireless and hands-free options than ever. But when it comes to sheer power and efficiency, What to Expect moms agree that the Spectra S1 Plus is still the very best electric breast pump on the market.

Spectra offers four different electric breast pumps: the S1 Plus, S2 Plus, S3 Pro and 9 Plus. But our community is particularly fond of the hospital-grade S1 Plus. (So much so that this is the third year it’s won this award!) Although the pump is compact and lightweight, it packs the same power as larger models, with some moms saying it helps them express twice the amount of milk as other pumps. 

In addition to being powerful, moms love that the Spectra 1 is comfortable and relatively quiet. It’s also wireless, which is especially helpful for pumping moms who have to travel and aren’t always near an outlet. 

Need something more hands-free? When it comes to wearable breast pumps, the Momcozy S12 Pro is a noteworthy runner-up. It features high-capacity cups (6 oz each), three expression modes, and nine intensity levels for a customizable, comfortable experience. With about 130 minutes of charging for up to 240 minutes of use, it’s a convenient, efficient option.

Good to know: The Spectra S1 features a nightlight and digital stopwatch, both of which can come in handy during late-night pumping sessions.

Enfamil offers an extensive line of baby formulas, but Enfamil NeuroPro seems to be a go-to for many families. The formula provides brain-building nutrients like DHA and immune-supporting prebiotics, ensuring your baby is getting the fuel they need to hit their milestones. Available as a powder or ready-to-feed formula, Enfamil NeuroPro is structurally similar to breast milk, which may make it easier for your baby to digest.

Be sure to consult with your pediatrician before starting your child on formula, as they may recommend finding one that addresses common feeding issues, such as colic or milk protein allergy. Fortunately Enfamil has options for both. Many What to Expect parents say the brand’s GentleEase formula was incredibly helpful for their little ones with sensitive stomachs.

Good to know: Enfamil’s container is dishwasher safe, so you can buy formula refills instead of a new tub every time, saving you money. 

Trusted by families for generations, Dr. Brown's bottles are known for making feeding and digesting easier. The line of Anti-Colic bottles feature a two-piece vent that keeps air from coming into contact with the milk. This prevents your baby from swallowing air, which can lead to spit-up, burping and gas. With the Options+ bottles, you can remove the vent as the baby's feeding progresses for a more age-appropriate bottle. (This can make them easier to clean, as the one complaint some parents have about Dr. Brown’s bottles is that they have many small parts.)  

But the vent isn’t the only feature that makes Dr. Brown a favorite among community members. Many What to Expect parents note how their baby had little troubling transitioning from breast to Dr. Brown’s bottle and back. This is likely due to the bottle’s nipple, which is shaped like a breast to help reduce nipple confusion and provide a consistent flow of milk. Crucially, many parents also note that Dr. Brown’s bottles are secure and less likely to leak.

Good to know: Dr. Brown’s Anti-Colic Options+ are available as glass or plastic, and narrow- or wide-neck. The best one for you really comes down to personal preference. Wide bottles tend to be a little easier to clean, though narrow bottles, which are pictured here, are easier for babies to eventually hold on their own and also easier to fit in a cabinet.

Just as many parents love Tubby Todd, with many saying it’s the only brand that doesn’t cause reactions on baby’s sensitive skin. In addition to basic bathing and skincare must-haves, Tubby Todd’s lineup also features products to treat cradle cap, diaper rash and more.

For a full Tubby Todd bath and skincare routine, this best-selling set comes with three hypoallergenic, pediatrician- and dermatologist-tested products: Hair + Body Wash, Everyday Lotion and All Over Ointment. Made with colloidal oatmeal, the ointment has gone viral for helping babies suffering from eczema, dryness and other skin sensitivities.

Good to know: The Hair + Body Wash and Everyday Lotion has a lavender and rosemary scent, but if you want an alternative option, they also sell the three-step, fragrance-free set.

You can never have too many diapers — or diaper options. With diapers, a lot comes down to fit, and what works for one baby might not be quite right for another. But What to Expect parents love Pampers for how consistently well-fitting and leak-proof they are. 

Of the many options, Pampers Swaddler Diapers are a popular pick. The flexible bands on these diapers offer more stretch to accommodate your growing baby. The material is soft enough to be gentle on baby’s skin, but still strong enough to contain messes. In fact, Pampers claims its Swaddlers Diapers provide up to 12 hours of dryness protection. Additionally, the brand’s Dual Leak-Guard Barriers along the leg cuff further prevent leaks where they happen most. Many parents found these claims to be accurate, saying Pampers’ diapers are the best they’ve tried to prevent blowouts and leaks.

These diapers lack the patterns and designs of its competitors, but some parents like that, as the diaper doesn’t show through clothing. 

Good to know: For extra protection while baby sleeps, you can also get Pampers Swaddlers Overnights, and when baby starts moving, Pampers Cruisers 360 are pull-on style diapers with a 360-degree stretchy waistband and the brand’s trusty blowout barrier. 

When it comes to baby wipes, gentle and dependable is the name of the game — and Pampers Sensitive Wipes check both boxes. Made with a pH-balanced lotion to help maintain baby’s natural skin barrier, these fragrance-free wipes are sturdy enough for big messes yet soft enough for the tiniest bottoms. Parents love how they stay moist in the pack and feel soothing on sensitive skin — even for babies with eczema.

But Pampers makes all sorts of wipes that also earn high praise from parents, including: Pampers Pure (fragrance-free), Pampers Complete Clean, Pampers Ultraclean, and more. 

Good to know: The packaging can make it tricky to pull out just one wipe at a time (especially during bleary-eyed 2 a.m. changes), but most parents agree it’s a small tradeoff for wipes this gentle and effective.

For babies with extra-sensitive skin, Huggies are a trusted go-to, especially the Natural Care Sensitive Wipes. These fragrance-free wipes are made with 99% purified water and have earned the National Eczema Association’s Seal of Acceptance, so you can wipe without worry. Parents rave about their thickness — strong enough to tackle diaper-duty messes but still tender on delicate skin.

Other reasons parents appreciate the Huggies brand are its dispensers; multiple voters noted the convenience of the one-handed pull for easy, quick access. 

Good to know: Some find these wipes slightly drier than others, but their durability means you’ll often need fewer per change (a win for your wallet). 

When baby’s bottom gets red and irritated, parents reach for one thing again and again: a blue-and-white tub that never lets them down. Aquaphor Baby Healing Ointment has earned its reputation as a nursery staple for good reason — it’s gentle, effective, and versatile.

Formulated with panthenol and glycerin, Aquaphor helps heal diaper rash while also protecting against future irritation. But that’s not all it does. Parents also swear by it for dry cheeks, chapped lips, and even minor scrapes. Scoop it up in small tubes to fit in your purse or diaper bag, while keeping the larger tub near your changing station at home. 

Good to know: Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic, Aquaphor is safe for daily use and approved by both pediatricians and dermatologists.

SkipHop has mastered the art of making bags that are equal parts stylish and functional, with smart pockets for everything from wipes to water bottles (and maybe a snack for you, too).

Their signature Forma Backpack is a community favorite thanks to its lightweight design, insulated pockets, and wipe-clean interiors. Parents especially love how SkipHop bags look more like sleek everyday backpacks than traditional diaper bags, meaning you’ll still want to carry it long after the diaper days are done.

Good to know: Many SkipHop bags attach easily to stroller handles and include a changing pad.

When baby’s first fever hits, every parent needs a go-to they can trust. Tylenol Infants’ Pain + Fever Relief has been trusted for generations. These liquid drops are fast-acting (typically in 15 minutes), gentle on tiny tummies, and pediatrician-recommended for minor aches and pains, whether that's caused by teething or the flu. 

Parents love the pre-measured dosing syringe. The cherry and grape flavor choices also don’t seem to bother little ones who might otherwise refuse medicine.

Good to know: Always follow your pediatrician’s guidance for dosing. Tylenol’s formula is safe for babies as young as 2 months, but check with your doctor for exact instructions.

Melissa & Doug is well-known for its developmental toys for babies and kids, from the newborn stage to age 8. You can explore their products by age or style, but they’re best known for pretend play sets, colorful wooden learning toys, arts and crafts kits and more.

A must-have, according to What to Expect parents and babies alike? The K’s Kids Flip Fish Baby Toy. At first glance, it looks like a fun, multicolored and multi-textured stuffy. Upon further inspection, baby will find hidden pictures under the scales, work on her grasp and finger strength by operating the squeaker tail and see herself in the shatterproof mirror attached to one of the scales.

Psst: A bunch of new products were added to the Ms. Rachel collection — just in time for holiday shopping! 

Good to know: If you’re not quite sure where to start, use Melissa & Doug’s "Shop by Age" feature to look for toys appropriate for children in these age groups: 0-12 months, 1-2 years, 2-3 years, 3-5 years and 6-8 years.

If your baby’s mealtime looks more like a food fight, Miss Mouth’s Messy Eater Stain Treater might just become your new best friend. This viral spray has earned millions of fans for a reason — it actually works. A quick spritz on milk, formula, or spaghetti sauce stains, and it lifts messes like magic (no scrubbing required).

Parents love that it’s non-toxic, fragrance-free, and safe for baby clothes and bedding — meaning you can say goodbye to mystery stains on your favorite onesies. It’s basically a lifesaver for every messy milestone, from purees to preschool art projects.

Good to know: Works on clothes, bibs, car seat covers, and even high chair seats. Because babies are bound to smear food on every surface, trust me.