As a first time soon-to-be mama, it’s definitely been a learning process to identify what’s needed vs. what’s excessive. When it came to creating our baby registry, Kad was absolutely horrified at everything I added. He was embarrassed to send out the link, because he thought people would judge us for the ridiculous amount of stuff I put on there (which they probably did, LOL). But the reality is, I had no clue what was essential vs. what’s not. So I just put everything I could think of, to make sure all bases were covered. 

This has been my philosophy pretty much throughout my entire pregnancy. The only way I’ve been able to sift through the countless email campaigns, Instagram ads, and product samplings I’ve been inundated with over the last eight months has been once again, by leaning on the mom-tribe community around me to weigh in on the reality of their experiences. So when I was approached by Oh Baby Boxes, I was juiced to give it a try.

Oh Baby Boxes is a subscription service for new/expecting mamas that curates customized boxes based on where you’re at in your pregnancy journey & your personal preferences. Each box contains 6-8 full size products valued over $100, and start at just $39.99. They save you the trouble of researching, reading reviews, and asking mama experts for their two cents on the best premium & organic, top of the line products for every stage of pregnancy & postpartum. 

Using my EDD (estimated due date), current trimester, & sizing info, here’s what they sent me in mine:

Aynil Mama Compression Socks ($20):

These knee-high compression socks are super comfy & are designed to help with swelling, which is hella common during all stages (but especially the final ones) of pregnancy. I definitely plan to wear these during/after labor & delivery to keep myself as cozy as possible while in the hospital… which is always anxiety-inducing for me.

RealHer “Eye Am Beautiful” Mascara ($18):

Lately, I’ve been way too exhausted to put on lashes. Instead, I’ve returned to my old makeup routine, going back to the simpler days when I used to just use mascara. Perfect for a lil pick-me-up on those days when you need a lil something to remind yourself you still cute. 😭

Duckish Baby Body Balm Lotion Stick ($6):

Stuck this right into our diaper bag. I’ve been told we’re not supposed to put any skincare products on our baby for the first few weeks (wtffffff, such a foreign concept), so having this organic balm stick to spot-treat any dry spots, etc. I’m sure will be coming in clutch!

Minimo Moxie Clarifying Red Clay Face Mask ($22):

During pregnancy, my skin has been all over the place. It slides from one end of the spectrum to the other, being both drier AND more congested than I’ve ever seen it before. This mask was one of my personal favorites from the box. When preparing for a new baby, you forget sometimes to think about you. It was nice getting something to treat myself with some much-needed self-care to help bring me back on those days where I dread running into a mirror.

Bodifresh Dew Drops of Spring ($8):

This eco-friendly alternative to flushable wipes fits right into your purse, diaper bag, and/or sink drawer to help freshen up baby, mama, or any other family member really after using the bathroom. Just spray the foam onto your toilet paper for a clean wipe free of any residual lingerings… 💩

For my Filipinx mamas & babies, it basically serves the same purpose as the tabo. Smells amazing, and is gentle enough to use on sensitive, baby-butt-smooth skin!

Willow Collective MOMBAG + changing pad:

Ok, I lied earlier. THIS is my favorite item from the box, if I had to choose. I always love a good tote, & immediately assigned this as my hospital bag when I opened it, proceeding to pack it right to the brim. For some reason, Kad thinks baby Hiro is gonna come earlier than our 8/16/21 expected due date, so I’m preparing things like this early- just in case! I am also known for overpacking any kind of bag, and was pleasantly surprised that everything I threw in there fit so comfortably on the first try, lol.

The bag also came with a portable diaper-changing pad that will live in it after baby has arrived. From what I hear, you can always use another changing pad, whether you’re out & about or just chillin at home.

Salamat to Joanna over at Oh Baby Boxes for the hook up! Always proud to collaborate with a fellow Pinay. ✊