As a first-time parent, you probably had no idea what you really did and didn't need. Of course, you didn't have to worry either - because everyone you came into contact with would tell you, whether you asked them or not! Hopefully you took some of that advice, left the advice you didn't feel was a good fit for you, and figured out what would work for you as a first-time parent.

Looking back, how would you grade yourself? Did you do a good job? Did you Prime something new every day in your baby's first 3 months of life? Were you spot-on?

If you have a second baby on the way, I'd like to suggest a few pieces of baby gear to upgrade as you head dive into being a parent to two. If your children will be fairly close together in age, there's a good chance you'll be able to use a lot of what you used for your first child, with your second. You might also find yourself wishing you'd invested a little more in certain things.

Here are some splurge-worthy items to buy for your newest addition!

Burp Cloths

This might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but babies. spit. up. Most babies are happy, healthy "spitters", but no one likes to smell like formula or spoiled milk. So, absorbent, sizeable burp cloths should be on your list of items to upgrade - so you can be more prepared!

MILKBARN organic cotton muslin burp cloths are gorgeous, and totally splurge-worthy.
aden + anais cotton muslin burpy bibs will keep you on-trend.

Baby Monitor

These things just keep getting fancier and fancier. If worrying about your baby in the next room kept you up all night the first time around, try a smart baby monitor this time.

The Nanit Pro Smart Baby Monitor and Wall Mount was created for all you analytics lovers.
The Owlet Smart Sock 3 and Cam Bundle truly takes monitoring to the next level.

Baby Carrier

You want to have a cozy way to hold your newborn (and beyond). While you may have carriers from your first child, most carriers aren't a good fit during the newborn stage. A great carrier created for newborns is worth it!

The Baby Bjorn Mini Mesh Carrier is soft and breathable and supports babies from 7-33 pounds.
The Ergobaby Embrace Newborn Carrier is so soft and has an ergonomic design that allows for carrying your child inward or outward.

Crib Mattress

When it comes to safe sleep, your mattress selection can make a difference. I recently learned about breathable mattresses, which can give even more peace of mind should you find yourself with a belly-sleeping baby (once they begin to roll over)!

The Newton Baby Crib Mattress is 100% breathable and washable!

Baby Swing

For your first baby, you may not have used your baby swing more than a few times. You may not have even purchased a baby swing! As first time parents, we often have more time to hold our babies, so things like swings aren't used as often. Now that you'll be balancing caring for two children, a safe and cozy place to put your newborn down will be important!

The Graco Sense2Soothe has cry detection technology, "hearing" your baby's cries and responding to soothe them. Yes, really.

When it comes to motherhood, there's one certainty: expect the unexpected! After your first child, you think you have the whole parenting thing down. It was rough in the beginning, but now you're a seasoned pro, right? Introducing a second baby can be a whirlwind. You're suddenly responsible for two children who both crave your undivided attention 24/7. It's exhausting. But there's something you can be 100% prepared for, and that's the items you need to upgrade for your second baby! I hope you loved this quick guide.