I thought having a baby would be difficult — and then came the toddler.

Moms, I know how challenging and rewarding this journey can be. To help make your life a little easier, I’ve compiled a list of must-haves that will prove invaluable in navigating the wonderful (and often hard to stand) world of toddlerhood.

My Top 7 Toddler Must-Haves

From practical cleaning tools to convenient storage solutions, these items save me and my sanity on a daily basis — they’re designed to make our day-to-day tasks more manageable while keeping our little ones happy and healthy.

Hand-Held Vacuum Cleaners

I’m all for letting your kids make a mess, especially when they’re perfecting independent feeding — but boy, is it messy. With a hand cleaner, you can say goodbye to the never-ending trail of crumbs and spills!

I honestly find myself wondering multiple times a day how I’ve ever lived without one. A hand-held vacuum cleaner is a true lifesaver for any toddler mom — with a lightweight and portable vacuum, you can quickly tackle those little messes without dragging out a bulky machine ten times a day.

It’s perfect for tidying up after mealtime, playtime, or any spontaneous messes that our toddlers are known to create!

Sizeable (yet Practical) Backpack

A practical backpack is not only a cute accessory, but it’s also a must. Whether you’re heading to the park, running errands, or embarking on a family outing, a backpack can — and should be able to — hold all the essentials your toddler needs.

From snacks, water bottles, and spare clothes to favorite toys and comfort items, having a well-stocked backpack ensures you’re prepared for any adventure that awaits.

I have had mine since the little one was only a newborn: it holds three bottles, has a special wet wipes place for easy retrieval, and can be easily attached to a stroller. All of these are a huge help when you’re taking your toddler to his grandparents, the mall, or on a longer trip!

Plethora of Bibs, Plates, and Spoons.

Mealtime with a toddler can be messy if you support independent feeding (and drinking). That’s why having an ample supply of bibs, plates, and spoons is a must.

Cards on the table: who of us empties and loads the dishwasher regularly, and not once the sink starts to overflow with dirty dishes?

This is why I requested my friends buy the little one plates and spoons for his first birthday. Yes, they’re all cute and stuff, but really, it was a gift for this tired momma.

Let’s face it, little ones are still developing their fine motor skills, and spills are inevitable. By having enough bibs, plates, and spoons on hand, you can easily manage mealtime messes and keep your toddler clean and comfortable. I always opt for easy-to-clean materials like silicone and dishwasher-safe products for added convenience.

Practical Toy Storage Box

As your toddler’s toy collection grows, so does the need for a practical storage solution. This mom whose 15 month old has some 20 cars, 15 books, and a plethora of educational toys knows it best!

A toy storage box or a similar organizational system is essential for maintaining a tidy and clutter-free living space. It not only keeps toys neatly stowed away but also helps teach your child the importance of cleaning up after playtime.

Look for storage options with child-friendly designs and easy accessibility to encourage independent tidying skills.

I dislike anything made of plastic (yes, eco-friendly mom here), so mine came from IKEA and is made of cloth and metal. It’s super cute and super practical as well! Modern Nursery has some really cute ones as well.

Sturdy Step Stool

Toddlers are constantly exploring their surroundings and craving independence. A sturdy step stool can be a game-changer, enabling your child to reach sinks, countertops, and other elevated areas with safety and confidence.

This helps foster their self-sufficiency during handwashing, teeth brushing, and simple tasks around the house. Choose a step stool with a non-slip surface and sturdy construction for added peace of mind.

Child-Proofing Essentials

My husband is horrified by the way our house is looking right now. The cabinets are shut, plugging anything into an outlet is a challenge, and all our tables have cover guards. And yet, safety is paramount when it comes to toddlerhood, so investing in child-proofing essentials is a must.

Outlet covers, cabinet locks, and corner guards are essential for creating a secure environment. These simple yet effective tools provide us with peace of mind and protect our child from potential hazards, allowing them to explore their surroundings without unnecessary risks.

Robot-Vacuum.

I know robot vacuums don’t come that cheap, but if you can afford them, they’re an absolute game-changer. With a full time job and a toddler, cleaning the floors is something I can hardly find the time for, but it’s extremely important since my little walker is still occasionally crawling, and spends a lot of his time sitting around chasing after toy cars.

Thanks to an app-controlled robot cleaner, you can make sure they’re playing in a clear area while you award yourself more free time to spend with them.