Smart Baby Hacks To Make Parenting A Little Bit Easier (ES)

There are usually so many things to look forward to when a little one comes into our lives. That doesn’t mean that everything is going to be easy. While plenty of people have tried to write manuals on how to raise a family, there is often nothing better than learning as we go - and from those around us.

What if there were some baby hacks to make parenting a little bit easier? Sometimes, taking advice from people who have been there and done it before can be all we need to make parenting more of a breeze.

1. Adding glue to any holes in bath toys should keep them more hygienic

There is nothing quite like splashing around with our favorite toys in the bathtub. While many of us might have moved on from the moment, it’s a memory several probably still hold dear, so perhaps it’s no wonder so many parents want to recreate the moment with their little ones? Amazingly, plastic bath toys can be filled with dangerous bacteria.

Being submerged in water and the humidity of bathrooms can make plastic toys a breeding ground for germs, but that doesn’t mean we have to throw them in the trash. Instead, gluing up any holes in bath toys should mean they no longer get filled with water and act as the perfect place to breed a host of nasties.

2. Baby powder is perfect for baby hacks, including removing unwanted sand

Whether you’re enjoying a trip to the beach or want to play in the sandbox with your little one, there are plenty of times unwanted sand can become a parent’s worst nightmare. Thankfully, baby powder could be all we need for one of the best baby hacks. Simply pack a bottle of the stuff any time you’re near sand.

Then, when it comes time to get home, cover your skin in baby powder, and you should watch the sand fall away with ease. Of course, baby powder is already something most parents have by their side, meaning no one has to spend a fortune to bring simple baby hacks to life. Does it get better than that?

3. Create sand-free play areas with a fitted sheet and some heavy items

While the beach is a great place to play in the sand, not all of us want to spend all day convincing a little one they don’t need to eat it or try to get it off before heading home. What if we told you some baby hacks could be all you need to have fun without sandy issues?

That’s right; all you need is a fitted sheet and four heavy items to make the perfect sand-free play area. Stretch the sheet out and use things such as coolers or heavy bags to keep each corner open. Be sure to add a parasol so your little one doesn’t get too much sun, and you’re good to go!

4. A visual sign to measure toilet paper is one of the best ways to avoid waste

Learning how to use the bathroom is one of the many things that comes with raising a little one. However, it can be tough to learn how to give them the responsibility of doing things themselves without things going to waste. Using too much toilet paper is one of the many things that might quickly become an issue.

It turns out something as simple as a visual reminder about how much toilet paper to use could be all you need to give children a little reminder every time they go. Measure out how much toilet paper you will likely need and add a sign, such as “That’s enough” or “You shall not pass,” to the wall.

5. A laundry basket for bath time helps stop any toys floating away

Enjoying bath time with little ones is one of the best ways to wind down for the night - and comes with a host of baby hacks to make the whole thing even easier. Perhaps you’ve noticed it can be tough to keep babies in one place and stop their toys from floating away every two seconds?

It can be quite a balancing act to keep everything in one place - and safe - but that doesn’t mean we have to give up. Instead, using a laundry basket with holes in the side to let the water in and out gives little ones space to wash without their toys floating too far away in the water.

6. Adding puffy paint to socks is one of the simplest ways to make non-slip footwear

There’s a good chance many parents have learned their little ones love nothing more than running through the house and playing games, no matter how many times they’re told they could slip and hurt themselves. Thankfully, one of the more straightforward baby hacks could keep them safe and let them have fun without too much effort.

Start by taking some puffy paint. Then, get creative adding all kinds of designs to the underside of their socks, such as their names, favorite characters, or some colorful patterns. Once the paint has dried, it should act as non-slip pads on their socks. Now, they should be able to run freely without their socks causing injuries.

7. Take photos of children before heading to public events just in case

When it comes to baby hacks, they can have all kinds of impacts on our lives. However, not all of them are about keeping little ones safe just in case the worst happens. Sadly, it can be easy to lose children in the crowd at public events, even if we only turn our backs for one second.

While it can be easy to panic, having a photo of what they were wearing the moment you arrived should mean you can show individuals what the children look like and have evidence of their outfits just in case the panic makes it hard for us to remember. Hopefully, they’ll be found before it feels like they’re missing.

8. A color-coded clock is one of the more straightforward hacks for teaching time management

Welcoming a little one can often make it feel as though time is on fast-forward. Sound familiar? You’re not the only one who might lose track of the day, as learning how to tell the time and managing our days is one of the critical things little ones pick up throughout their childhood. However, it can be tough to teach.

Rather than leave things to chance, creating a color-coded clock is one of the simplest baby hacks to keep everyone on schedule. Block out different times with colors and label each one so that everyone in the house knows what they’re supposed to be doing at that time - and act as a reminder of the schedule for frazzled parents.

9. Velcro under rugs is one of the best ideas to keep little ones safe

Starting a family usually means we need to make a few adjustments to our homes. After all, safety is key when it comes to raising little ones, but what about things that can be easy to overlook? Items such as rugs, especially rugs on tiled or wooden floors, can quickly become a trip or slip hazard if we’re not careful.

Thankfully, something as simple as velcro can save plenty of worries. Cut one length and stick it along the edge of the underside of your rug. Then, place the opposite side on the floor where you want your rug to lie and stick it down. You can still move the rug to clean, but it shouldn’t slide around the floor.

10. Cut a sticker in half for hacks to teach helpful life skills

Letting children take responsibility for their lives is something many parents have to face throughout the years. In fact, plenty of little ones love nothing more than doing things themselves, such as getting themselves dressed each day. What about putting their shoes on to leave the house? It’s a simple task but one that can cause a lot of frustration.

Learning which is the left and right shoe can be challenging for young minds, but some simple baby hacks could be all we need to help. Cut a sticker in half and place each inside the shoes. Now, they should be able to tell which side is which by lining up the sticker, giving them guidance and independence.

11. Locks can quickly be covered with Tupperware boxes

One of the best safety baby hacks is ensuring little ones don’t have access to doors and locks that could see them get into dangerous situations. Plenty of parents have panicked when children end up accidentally locked in their bedroom or the bathroom, but how are we supposed to avoid the problem without removing the handle?

Simply take any Tupperware container with a lid. Cut a gap in the cover large enough to slide over the handle without it being so large it can easily be removed. Then, merely add the box onto the doorknob so they can’t lock the door while it can still be used with ease from the other side.

12. Creating super-strength laundry cleaner can save time doing laundry

Spending life chained to the washing machine can often feel like a normal part of being a parent. After all, little ones know how to make a huge number of messes, and getting the stains out takes a lot longer than getting them everywhere in the first place. That’s where laundry baby hacks come in.

Take one part dish soap, two parts hydrogen peroxide, and one part baking soda, and you could suddenly have a super-strength laundry cleaner. All you need to do is cover any stain with the mixture, give it a gentle scrub with a soft brush, and wash the clothes as normal and you should see the stain disappear in no time.

13. Bedsheets can be used for all kinds of baby hacks, including making hammocks

Not all baby hacks are getting our little ones all the basic things they need to stay happy. Thankfully, some are about how to have fun as a family, too. Perhaps you want to play a game with hammocks but don’t want to invest in one? Have no fear; if you have bedsheets, you can make your own.

Make sure the sheet is long enough to wrap all the way around a table with enough fabric left over to have somewhere to lie down, and you have your hammock. Ensure the table is sturdy and robust enough to hold the weight before securely tying the two ends together on top of the table, and you’re good to go.

14. Wash plastic bricks in a laundry bag for one of the best ways to keep little ones safe

Did you know that certain viruses could live on plastic children's toys for up to 24 hours? Of course, this can be long enough to infect everyone in the house and can pose quite a threat. While many parents want to keep everything safe and clean, it can be easy to forget about certain things while cleaning.

Those plastic bricks might be one on the list. Thankfully, something as simple as adding them all to a laundry bag and putting them through the washing machine could be all you need to keep them clean and safe to use. Just be sure to let them dry thoroughly once washed and repeat the process a few times a week.

15. Pacifiers can be adjusted to quickly give little ones medicine

While it can be tough to watch a little one who's feeling under the weather, getting them medicine is usually all we need to get them back to full health. So how are we supposed to convince them it's what they need without facing a battle? That's where some baby hacks can come in helpful.

Start by poking a small hole in the mouthpiece of the pacifier. Then, cut a hole in the outside that's large enough for a medicine syringe to slot on the end. Get your baby to take the pacifier before gently pushing the medicine into the hole. Now, they should take their medication without realizing what's happening.

16. Mess-free baby hacks can be as simple as a straw and applesauce

What if we told you there were baby hacks that could save plenty of clean-up and give your little one a delicious snack? That’s right; such a thing does exist - and it could be as simple as grabbing a straw. Applesauce is a popular snack for many as it’s sweet, simple, and easy to take just about anywhere.

Rather than taking a spoon with you or sitting back and watching the mess that can often come from a little one trying to eat it themselves, why not use a straw? Of course, this only works for smooth applesauce. Simply pierce the straw through the lid for a snack they can enjoy on their own without making a mess.

17. Highchair ideas only require a hook to keep everything in place

Ah, mealtimes, aka the time of the day that so many of us look forward to - including children. Getting everything prepared, getting little ones in their highchair, and dedicating time to meals can sometimes feel like a task. What if everything is in place, but you suddenly realize you’ve forgotten their bib? You wouldn’t be the first.

Rather than searching high and low for a clean bib, it could be time to utilize baby hacks to make life easier. Simply add a stick-on hook to the back of the highchair, so you always have somewhere to hang your bibs. Now, you merely have to grab one at each meal and add them back once they’re clean.

18. Water, conditioner, and dish soap are perfect for detangling doll hair

Hands up if you remember trying to style your dolls’ hair into all kinds of intricate designs only to find it’s not quite the same as human hair and usually ended up knotted together? You’re not alone. However, the issue hits a little differently when you’re the parent and have to try and revive the failed hairdo.

Water, conditioner, and dish soap are all you need to remove the knots. Yes, baby hacks really can be that simple. Mix the ingredients together and leave your doll’s hair to soak for a few hours. Then, brush out the hair and rinse in clean water, so the doll is ready for another trip to the hair salon.

19. A reusable babysitter plan is one of the great hacks for parents on the go

There are plenty of times we might need someone to look after the little ones. It could be date night, a night out with friends, or even just getting some time to run errands without the children. Whatever the case, it can be tough to remember everything to explain to each babysitter before walking out the door.

That’s where a reusable babysitter plan comes in. When it comes to baby hacks, this could be one of the best to ensure nothing is missed, as you can merely fill it out with all the details you need before leaving. This includes emergency contacts, bedtimes, when you’ll be back, and any other information a babysitter might need.

20. Filling a glove with beans or sand is perfect for soothing little ones

Many of us have been there. You know, the times that the baby just won’t settle without our hand on their back no matter what we do? That’s the one. While many parents want children to drift off to sleep, it can be tough to dedicate potentially hours to keeping them soothed as they snooze.

Thankfully, something as simple as filling a glove with beans or sand might be one of the best baby hacks to free your hand and soothe babies. Fill the glove with enough of the stuff so that it’s not too heavy, and ensure it’s tied together tightly so nothing can escape. Then, simply lay the glove where it’s needed.

21. A kiddie pool is perfect for using in a shower if you don’t have a bathtub

Sometimes, we have to make compromises. Perhaps you’ve found the perfect vacation home, and it has everything you need other than a bathtub? While it can sound like enough to put many of us booking a room, some baby hacks could be all we need to make things work. In fact, all we need is a kiddie pool.

Simply place the pool in the bottom of the shower and fill it with water like you would a bathtub. Then, merely use the pool as a stand-in and drain the water once you’re done. Be sure to use an inflatable pool, so it can easily shape to the contours of the shower, and nothing should stand in your way.

22. Keep baby socks safe in the laundry by using laundry bags

Does it ever feel as though the washing machine eats your socks? Of course, it’s never a pair - just one to make us feel like we’re losing our minds as we’re left with all these odd socks. This can be even more of a challenge when we have baby socks, as being so small means they can easily get lost.

If this sounds familiar, you might want to invest in a laundry bag for one of the best baby hacks. Simply place all the socks in the bag, tie it up, and do your laundry as usual. If you don’t want to spend any extra money, then you can even use a pillowcase tied with string.

23. A roll of paper in a frame can be used as an infinite whiteboard for creative little ones

If there is one rule many of us were used to hearing when we were younger, it was not to draw on the walls. What if we told you some baby hacks meant little ones could get creative as they like without worrying about the decor? That’s right; it all starts with a frame, a hanging roll, and some paper.

Start by attaching the frame to the wall, leaving a gap at the top and bottom. Then, hang the roll from the wall a few feet above the frame and attach your roll of paper. Now, little ones can pull the paper through the frame to hold it in place and get creative on their infinite whiteboard.

24. Rope attached to a laundry basket can make a sled in a hurry

Let’s face it; getting snowed in can be enough to make many of us go stir crazy, especially when we have little ones to keep entertained. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways we can enjoy fun with the family in the snow. What if we want to go sledding but don’t have one to hand?

All you need is some rope and a laundry basket, and that could be a worry of the past. Simply attach the rope to one end of the laundry basket, ensuring it’s long enough to act as a handle. Then, place your little one in the basket, and you can suddenly enjoy the outdoors in style.

25. Muffin papers can catch drips from popsicles for one of the best clean hands hacks

It’s one thing to let little ones have a sweet treat now and then, but that can soon become a big regret when we have to deal with the sticky hands that usually follow. Popsicles are a great way to cool down, and there are plenty of flavors we can make at home. Want a way to avoid popsicle drips?

Simply grab some muffin cases before you hand them out. Open them up and slide the case over the popsicle stick so the case is facing up. Now, the case can catch any drips before they run down over anyone’s hands. The more we think about it, the more we believe these could be life hacks instead of baby hacks.

26. Shower caps over stroller wheels should avoid any unwanted mess

It can sometimes feel as though there’s no end to the number of issues that come our way. While dirty stroller wheels have long been something that have caused plenty of problems for parents, there could be some simple baby hacks to make them a thing of the past. Sometimes, it’s the simple things that make the difference.

All you need are a set of shower caps, and you no longer have to worry about dragging dirt on your stroller wheels. These can be kept in the trunk, by the front door, or anywhere else you have to take your stroller. Simply slide them over each wheel to keep your vehicle or carpets safe from any unwanted dirt.

27. Add a fitted sheet to a crib as a way to keep little ones safe outdoors

If there is one thing that many of us have learned, it's that too much sun can be pretty dangerous for our health. The same goes for babies, but that doesn't mean we should never go outside again. Instead, it might be time to consider some baby hacks to make it as safe for them as possible.

If you want to have fun outside without worrying about bugs and too much sun, grab a travel crib and fitted sheet. Place the crib in the shade, put your baby inside, and over the top with the fitted sheet for shade and protection. Just be sure not to let them overheat or leave them inside for too long.

28. Making garages for cars should help children to remember to put toys away

One thing that many parents have to face is trying to get children to put their toys away at the end of playtime. It’s a burden many have faced, but it might not be as challenging as it sounds on the surface. In fact, making some creative storage should help make tidying up more fun than ever before.

All you need is an old box, such as a wooden crate, and a host of cardboard tubes. Merely stand the box on one end and stick your tubes in layers throughout. Finish the creation with a “Parking garage” label, and you might find toy cars all over the floor are no longer an issue.

29. Cut watermelon into sticks for ways to make mealtimes easier

Making sure children have a balanced diet is one of the many obstacles parents have to overcome throughout the years, with plenty offering fruit throughout the day to give them everything they need. Watermelon is a go-to for many parents. However, it can sometimes be tricky to eat when it’s cut into giant slices or wedges.

Instead of facing a battle every snack time, why not cut your watermelon into sticks? It only takes a few moments longer to prepare but could mean everyone gets to enjoy some fresh fruit. As if that wasn’t enough, they can even be frozen overnight for a healthy, cool treat when the weather warms up.

30. Some simple hacks and fabric could see an end to noisy doors

While some babies naturally sleep through any noise that comes their way, others have the magical ability to wake up when someone breathes too loudly in the next room. Sound familiar? Checking on your little ones throughout the night is a great way to make sure they're safe, but could be all it takes to wake them up.

If you're worried about the door's noise waking them up, you might want to use a piece of fabric - such as an old face mask - to keep it quiet. Pull the fabric over the catch and attach the string to the door handles so the catch is always pulled in. Now, opening and closing the door should be almost silent.

31. Add pool noodles to a walker to avoid any unwanted damage to your home

Taking their first steps can often be one of the biggest milestones parents get to enjoy. Walkers are a popular choice for many, as it means little ones can toddle around the house without the worry of falling over. Sadly, they might not take into account their larger size and run into things along the way.

If you want to use a walker but don’t want to damage your walls or furniture, it could be time to invest in some pool noodles. All you need to do is cut enough strips to attach to the widest part of the walker and secure them with cable ties. Now, there will be a cushion to keep things safe.

32. Keep pacifiers clean in muffin case pots for one of the quickest ideas on the go

Heading to the store, a play date, or anything that means we need to leave the house means we often need to pack everything we could need into a bag or two. For plenty of parents, this means taking some spare pacifiers. Still, they can quickly get dirty when they’re among everything else in the bag.

If you need to take spare pacifiers and want to keep them clean, it could be time to start saving those muffin case pots. They’re the perfect size for pacifiers and already come with lids, meaning we merely need to place them inside, add the top, and put them in our bag when we’re ready to leave.

33. Treasure hunts for lost items are one of the best ideas if you think someone’s moved your things

One of the many things that come with being a parent is the joy of losing things. However, it might not just be the baby brain that sees things disappear. Sometimes, little hands have a way of finding out things and giving them a new home. Amazingly, some baby hacks could reveal all of their new hiding spots.

All you need to do is create a list of things that have gone missing and turn it into a treasure hunt around the home. You can add some stuff that might be easier to find to make it more fun, and sit back and relax as your little helpers get to work finding everything that’s been misplaced.

34. Pool noodles are great for keeping household items safer

It can often feel as though the market is flooded with all kinds of items designed to keep children safe around the home. While they all usually serve their purpose, there’s a chance we might not have to spend a fortune to baby-proof everything. Instead, we might need something as simple as pool noodles to get the job done.

Anything with a hard edge can quickly become a danger when children are involved, so why not make sure they’re cushioned just in case anything happens? Take a length of pool noodle and cut a slit into the material. This can then be slotted onto anything, such as the edge of coffee tables or TV stands.

35. Making safe playpens can be simple when you have a kiddie pool

Seeing little ones learn how to crawl can be a major milestone. Of course, it also means we need to think about everywhere they can go when we turn around for one second. Playtime is an important part of growing up but can cause nightmares for parents when it comes to staying in one place and not getting into danger.

Thankfully, a kiddie pool could be all we need to bring one of the best baby hacks to life. Simply inflate the pool and add everything your baby needs, such as toys, books, and any interactive things they can enjoy. While we still need to watch little ones, having a contained playpen should make playtime a lot safer.

36. Creating a DIY teething guard should help to protect cribs and teeth

What are you supposed to do when your baby starts teething? It can be tough to see them in such discomfort. Thankfully, there are plenty of tested remedies to help teething, but that doesn’t mean it will necessarily stop them from chewing. Baby hacks could be all we need to protect our crib and their new teeth.

Amazingly, you only need a strip of fabric to create a DIY teething guard. Cut the fabric to as long as you need before making cuts into the length every now and then. This should leave you with tassels that can be tied together through the bars to keep the guard in place and protect everything needed.

37. Keep track of medicine doses by writing them on the bottle

It can be easy to forget things along the way, especially if you find yourself in a stressful situation. The chances are a little one being ill is something that’s enough to stress out many parents, meaning it might not be long before we start to forget if we gave them their medicine or not.

Rather than leave things to chance, it might be time to make a table on the bottle. Add on the days of the week and however many doses they need a day, such as morning and evening doses. Then, merely check off once you’ve given them their medicine for one of the best baby hacks for keeping things simple.

38. Plastic eggs can easily be used for keeping food and snacks clean

Have you ever had one of those moments that has never been a problem until now? They come - and it can be tough to know what to do. The chances are most of us are used to finishing our lollipops, but that’s not always the case when it comes to children. Thankfully, baby hacks have us covered, just in case.

The chances are most of us don’t save the wrapper, and even if we do, they never seem to go back on. Instead, be sure to save the plastic eggs the next time you find one in a candy bar. These can then be used to slide over lollipops, keeping them fresh until they’re ready to finish their snack.

39. Take a drawing of their feet for ways to make shopping easier

When it comes to baby hacks, parents sometimes need a way to get things done without the kids around. It’s no bad thing; it can just be tough to bring them along to everything. Shopping might be one of the things on the list that’s more challenging with little ones to worry about along the way.

Drawing around your child’s feet means you have the correct size they need for a new pair of shoes without having to bring them into multiple stores as you look for the right set. Instead, you can focus on getting in and out before handing them their surprise once you’re home. It’s a win-win situation.

40. Frozen teething drops are as simple as mixing two ingredients together

What if we told you that you only need two ingredients for one of the best baby hacks for teething youngsters? That’s right; they’re simple to make and can help relieve some of their pain as their teeth grow in. To start, you need some greek yogurt and any of their favorite fruit flavors to bring them to life.

Simply add both ingredients to a blender and whizz them up until you’re left with a smooth paste. Finally, squeeze them onto a sheet of wax paper and let them freeze for at least 30 minutes. Thankfully, being so simple means that you can make as many as needed and hopefully help your little one get some relief.

41. Add a plastic tarp under highchairs to catch any unwanted spills

While parents have come to terms with plenty of aspects that come with welcoming a little one, it can be tough to learn how to cope with the constant mess that often comes with mealtimes. Even sitting and feeding children in a highchair doesn’t always mean that we stop them from knocking food on the floor.

Rather than risk it, it might be time to make use of some old tarp. All you need to do is place this under the highchair for one of the best baby hacks for keeping your home clean and saving time cleaning up. After all, being waterproof means you merely have to wipe the plastic after each meal.

42. Using diaper cream can be simple if you already have spare makeup brushes

There is something about diaper cream that can often mean it ends up just about everywhere other than where it’s supposed to be. It’s one of the joys of parenting, but it doesn’t have to be an issue if you have spare makeup brushes. The best bit? It means we also shouldn’t have to deal with ointment on our hands.

Grab one of your spare brushes and add a dollop of cream onto the bristles. Then, use this to gently wipe the diaper cream wherever it’s needed before pulling up the diaper and getting back to business. Just be sure to wash the brush every few uses to keep it clean and hygienic in between diaper changes.

43. Using pool noodles to cover trampoline springs makes them safer

When it comes to baby hacks, it can sometimes be about keeping our families safe - even when they’re having fun. If that sounds familiar, it could be time to reconsider the situation before letting them on the trampoline. While they can be great fun, they can also be pretty dangerous if we don’t consider the things that might go wrong.

Fingers getting caught in the springs is one of the many things that might happen while using trampolines, but something as simple as pool noodles can keep everyone safe. Merely cut lengths of pool noodle and slide them over all the exposed springs. The best bit? It can quickly add a dash of color to the toy, too.

44. Freezing ice pops standing up is a great hack to make them easier to open

Have you ever had one of those moments that seemingly unlock a core memory? It might not be until we see them that those colored ice pops bring all our childhood memories flooding back. However, one of the many problems we might have forgotten about these ice pops is trying to get them open in the first place.

Thankfully, things have come a long way over the years, and new baby hacks mean it no longer has to be so challenging. Instead of freezing them lying down, stand them up in a rack, so the liquid all freezes at the bottom. Now, you can cut off the top without having to battle an extra chunk of ice.

45. Day napping is simpler with some ideas to block the light from the room

When it comes to baby hacks, there might be times we need to learn all about how to get them to sleep. While it can sound simple on the surface, it might not be long before parents learn that can sometimes be far from the truth. Perhaps you need to block out the light so your baby can snooze?

This is fine if you have blackout drapes, but it can be an issue if you don’t have any in your life. Thankfully, if you have aluminum foil, you already have everything you need. Simply cover the windows in foil to block out any light and reflect some of the heat that can make sleeping in the summer difficult.

46. Homemade monster spray might be one of the best baby hacks for nighttime

Thankfully, not every child finds it tough to make it through the night without nightmares. However, it’s a normal part of growing up - and can quickly become an issue if parents don’t find a way to help little ones feel comfortable. This doesn’t mean they have to share a bed with us until they’re not scared anymore.

Instead, you might merely need something as simple as monster spray. Take an empty bottle and decorate it however you like. Then, fill it with water and anything you want, such as a few drops of safe essential oil and some glitter. All you need to do is spray it around the room each night, and you’re done.

47. Don’t forget to pack an extra t-shirt for yourself in your diaper bag

Plenty of people have their own opinions about what we need in our diaper bags. Some say we need a diaper for every 30 minutes we’re away from home, while others prefer to keep things light and simple. However, one thing many parents usually miss off the list is a spare t-shirt or sweater for themselves.

The chances are most parents will pack a spare change of clothes for the baby, so what about if they get dirty? Perhaps that’s why one of the best baby hacks is packing some extra clothes? Now, you should be prepared in case there are any accidents and won’t have to make your excuses to go home.

48. Coloring cases can be made from an old DVD case for creative little ones

Getting creative and having no limits is one of the best things about being younger. In fact, learning how to doodle and color in between the lines could be the start of a budding art career. Drawing is also a great way to pass time when we’re out the house, such as at a restaurant or on long car rides.

Plenty of us have old DVD cases lying around that we no longer need, and the best baby hacks mean they aren’t necessarily destined for the trash can. All you need are some pieces of paper that can be slotted into one side and a set of pens or pencils that can be added to the other.

49. Playtime hacks are simple if you have a bubble wand and clip

If there is one thing that’s usually enough to bring joy to most of our lives, it’s blowing bubbles. There is something about watching them float around and trying to get them to pop that can brighten up most of our days. However, bubble wands can also be pretty tricky to use, especially for children.

When it comes to baby hacks, there’s a chance most of us want something to make life easier, which is why it might be time to grab a clip next time you want to blow bubbles. Why? Simply attach the clip to the top of the wand, so you no longer have to worry about it slipping into the bottle.

50. Use a pool noodle under fitted sheets to help keep little ones in their bed safely

By now, most of us have likely learned how to stay in bed throughout the night. While we might fall out of bed every now and then - especially after a fun night on the town - we usually don’t need something to help us stay in bed. The same can’t always be said for little ones who might need some assistance.

Moving from a crib to a bed might mean children need some help not to fall out now they no longer have the bars. Simply place a pool noodle on top of the mattress at the edge of the bed, hold it in place with something like strong tape, and add the fitted sheet over the top like usual.

51. Attaching toys to highchairs with clips is one of the more simple mealtime ideas

Have you noticed how your little one loves nothing more than playing the game of let's throw our toys on the floor every two seconds while we're in our highchair? While it can seem innocent to start, there are usually only so many times we can collect things from the floor before it becomes too much.

Rather than forget toys at mealtimes, you might merely need something as simple as some plastic hooks. Attach the toys to the hooks and clip them onto the edge of the tray, so they can't fall even if they try, as the toys will simply hang in place instead. That's right; baby hacks really do have everything covered.

52. Cardboard sections can quickly stop little ones from fighting during car rides

Having multiples can often feel like a blessing, even though the chances of welcoming multiples have risen by 75% in recent years. Suddenly, raising multiple babies at once can become quite challenging, meaning baby hacks might be even more valuable than before. Watching little ones develop their personalities is a great part of being a parent.

However, with this often comes the need to fight with their siblings. Car rides can be particularly stressful, especially if everyone is crowded in the back. To avoid anything occurring while driving, it might be time to take some sheets of cardboard and slot them between the car seats to stop anything happening while your eyes are on the road.

53. Glow sticks in the bathtub are one of the best ideas to spice up bathtime

Want some baby hacks to make bath time even more fun than before? You’re not alone. Several little ones can quickly decide they no longer want to wash and would rather throw tantrums instead. Perhaps it’s time to make the bathtub more inviting than before? Thankfully, it could be as simple as adding glow sticks to the water.

All you need to do is invest in a host of glow sticks, snap them once the bath has run, and drop them into the water. Dim the lights - making sure you’re still there to supervise just in case anything happens - and show your child that having a bath is no longer the boring part of the evening.

54. Coffee filters can stand in as a bowl for snacks if you’re in a hurry

There are plenty of times that being a parent catches up with the rest of our lives. Sure, it can be easy to think nothing has to change, but it’s not until the little one is what that we might realize that’s far from the truth. Perhaps the dishes have taken over, and you quickly need something to serve snacks?

So long as you have coffee filters, then you have one of the best time-saving baby hacks. All you need to do is open the filters up, pop whatever snack it is inside like a bowl, and dish them out at snacktime. It turns out that no dishes are no longer a problem. Who would have thought?

55. One of the best first aid hacks is using frozen marshmallows as an ice pack

If you have children, there’s a good chance there might be a spare bag of marshmallows or two around the house. After all, they’re perfect for hot chocolates, roasting over the fire, and as a sweet treat. What if we told you one of the best baby hacks means they can also be used as an ice pack?

That’s right; marshmallows might actually be better than frozen vegetables or medical ice packs, as they can be molded to any shape. Simply add them to a Ziploc bag and freeze them, so they’re ready for any emergencies. The best bit? Marshmallows are easy to find at most stores, so they can quickly be replaced after use.

56. The dishwasher can be used to bulk clean all those plastic toys

Plenty of parents probably find themselves scrolling through all kinds of baby hacks to try and find a way to keep their toys clean and safe. Unfortunately, many involve a lot of work and time that we don’t always have when we’re trying to raise a family. What if we told you there was a better way?

It turns out the answer might have been staring us in the face the entire time, as something as simple as putting them in the dishwasher could be all we need. Ensure the toys are plastic and only wash them on a gentle wash to avoid any high temperatures or anything too rough to keep toys safe during their wash.

57. Utilize playful hacks like water and a paintbrush to keep little ones busy

As much as we often love our children, there is a good chance there might come a time or two that we need to keep them occupied and out of our hair so that we can get on with everything on our growing to-do list. Sound familiar? Don’t feel guilty, especially as some baby hacks could be all you need.

Thankfully, the answer is simple, as you only need a bucket of water and a paintbrush. Now, little ones can spend their time “painting” the fence as they’ll be able to see where they’ve been without doing any damage. Sometimes, the simple things in life can make all the difference, especially if they’re having fun.

58. Prevent fingers from getting trapped in doors by adding pool noodles around the home

There is nothing quite like the pain of getting our fingers trapped in the door. While, more often than not, it’s nothing but an accident, it can be enough to cripple most of us. What about when little ones are learning about the world and haven’t quite grasped that they need to keep their hands away from doors?

Thankfully, we don’t have to leave things to chance, as adding some pool noodles to doors should save any accidents. Start by cutting a small segment of pool noodle before making a cut lengthways. This should mean it can be slid onto the door so it won’t be able to shut all the way - or cause any injuries.

59. Hair ties work as perfect stand-ins if you don’t have child locks on your doors

Whether you’re babysitting for a loved one or you haven’t gotten around to getting everything you need to baby-proof your home, there’s a chance plenty of us will need some baby hacks at some point. Keeping everything dangerous out of reach is one of the many things to consider, but this can be easier said than done.

Not having child locks on your cupboards doesn’t mean it’s the end, as hair ties make the perfect replacement in a hurry. Merely grab a hair tie, hook it over one handle, twist until it’s tight, and slide the hair tie over the other handle to keep the cupboards shut and everything safely away from curious hands.

60. Teach little ones how to wash their hands by using a rubber duck and soap

There are plenty of life skills we need to teach our children throughout the years. One of the many on the list is helping them learn to wash their hands - and if there is one thing many have learned, it’s that hand washing is an important part of life. How do you use baby hacks to make everything easier?

It’s simple - you only need a rubber duck and some soap. Start by covering their hands with enough soap and adding a rubber duck to the sink. Now, they can give the duck a bath each time they need to get clean - and learn how long they need to wash their hands at the same time.

61. Prepare clothes and diapers for the next day to save time and remain organized

Many of us love nothing more than ensuring we have everything prepared for the next day, so why does that have to change once we welcome a little one? Good news: it doesn’t. In fact, learning about the best baby hacks could be all we need to stay one step ahead of the game and be more prepared than ever.

Rather than wake up in a panic, why not prepare everything you need for the next day the evening before? This includes the diapers, clothes, and formula or snacks you might need. This can be especially great if you plan on heading out, as you merely need to grab your pre-prepared bag and walk out the door.

62. Measure out extra servings of formula or food for one of the best time-saving hacks

There’s a good chance many parents quickly learn just how much their babies need to eat. In fact, newborns could need feeding as many as 12 times a day in the first month of their lives, meaning we could be making more bottles than we expected. What if simple baby hacks mean we could stay one step ahead?

All you need to do is prepare some bottles or snacks the day before, and you should have everything you need. Of course, there could be times we need to make extra food along the way, but having enough made ahead of time should save plenty of time throughout the day as they’re all ready and waiting.

63. Create a “dump” pile in your house to avoid mess building up in every room

Have you ever had one of those days as a parent where you look around your home and realize things have gotten a little out of control? This could be toys that need to be put away, laundry that’s yet to be folded, or parcels that need unpacking. Whatever the case, it can be easy to lose control.

Instead of letting things take over the house, it might be time to start a “dump” pile. While the jobs will still need to be done, the mess should be kept in one area or room. Then, when your baby is down for their nap, or you have a spare few minutes, you can work through the dump pile.

64. Adding something that smells like you is one of the best ideas for a peaceful sleep

While it can take years for children to learn how to express their love for their parents with words, they usually instantly know who is there to care for them from the moment they’re born. Maybe you’ve noticed they fall asleep faster when they’re in your arms or by your side? It might all be down to your scent.

Adding something that smells like you, such as a blanket or t-shirt, to their crib could be all you need to soothe and calm your baby as they associate the smell with their parents. Simply add a top you’ve been wearing or keep a blanket under your shirt for the day to create something simple to calm little ones.

65. Blend veggies into sauces to help maintain a balanced diet

There have been plenty of studies into how many portions of fruit and vegetables we need a day to stay healthy. Many experts agree that five is a good goal, but how are we supposed to get children to eat enough fresh food? The picky eating stage is one that many parents will have to battle at some point.

Thankfully, simply blending them up and adding them into other meals could be all you need to sneak the food into their diet. Why not whizz up some vegetables to hide in pasta sauce? Perhaps you could blend fruit and stir it through yogurt for a sweet treat? It seems there is no end to the possibilities.