Antonio Dominguez is a local DUMBO dad of 2 young boys. When he is not in search of outstanding gear for his sons, Antonio manages the design and construction of art museums and cultural buildings. He recently worked on the Miami Art Museum designed by Herzog and DeMeuron and the Kimbell Art Museum designed by the Renzo Piano Building Workshop. Here is Antonio’s list of top-five must have products for your new baby, picked for their functionality, quality and design:
1. Crib Bloom Alma Papa Crib
Why: This crib is the perfect size for a small-scale DUMBO apartment, and will last until your little one is at least 3 years old. It has wheels, making it easily movable between rooms, perfect for when older siblings want to play, but baby needs to nap.
Features: 2 mattress heights, 4 lockable castors for room-to-room mobility, folds for storage when not in use. Dimensions: 49″ x 25.5″ x 35.75″. Comes in 4 different colors. Buy
bloom Alma Papa Pocket Spring Crib Mattress and toddler rail with it.
Price: $700
2. Baby carrier Ergobaby Original Baby Carrier
Why: Simply the most comfortable body carrier out there for mom and dad, and we have tried them all! You can be out and about with your baby from day 1, whether it be walks through Brooklyn Bridge Park or subway trips to the city.
Features: Machine washable, 3 unique carry positions, comes in various colors, fits toddlers up to 45 lbs. Buy ERGObaby Performance Infant Insert, Cool Mesh Natural
Price: $115
3. Stroller Baby Jogger 2014 City Mini GT Single Stroller
Why: If you want to avoid collecting multiple strollers over the years, this is simply the best option out there. It combines the comfort of a Bugaboo with the easy foldability of an umbrella stroller. All-terrain wheels work great on DUMBO’s cobblestone streets, and you can quickly and easily fold it with just one hand to save space in your apartment. Lastly, it features a 50+ sun canopy that can open to multiple shading positions, ideal for summer time in the City!
Features: Adjustable handlebar to adapt to the parent’s height. It reclines to a near flat position with vents and a retractable weather cover. You can snap your car seat on top for the first few months with a newborn. Note: Also available (and amazing) for twins or two young kids is the Baby Jogger 2014 City Mini GT Double Stroller.
Price: $349
4. Bibs aden + anais Muslin Snap Bib, Jungle Jam, 3 Count
Why: I never thought I would have an opinion on bibs! But, there are two simple reasons why these guys are the best: Firstly, the three snaps ensure a perfect fit as baby grows. Secondly, velcro fasteners in other bibs can get stuck to and damage other laundry in the dryer – these bibs are a no problem when it comes to clean-up.
Features: 100% cotton. The three snaps conveniently located in the front of the muslin snap bibs ensure a long-lasting, perfect fit with easy fastening and adjusting during mealtime.
Price: 3 for $14.99
5. High chair OXO Tot Sprout Chair
Why: This high chair balances our baby’s comfort and my design sensibility. It looks way better than most high chairs and it is a space-saving, one-stop solution from six months to five years.
Features: For a comfy fit throughout growing stages, the seat adjusts in height and depth and the footrest is height-adjustable as well. A depth-adjustable tray accommodates as baby grows and can be removed so the chair can be pulled up to the table. The chair and cushion are easily wipeable for quick cleanup. For children over age three, the crotch post, tray and harness can be removed to convert the high chair to a youth chair so kids can sit at the family table. Holds up to 60 lbs.
Price: $249.99
