Whether you’re building your baby registry or just figuring out where to start, consider this your très chic guide to French baby essentials—minus the hassle of international shipping and exorbitant import fees.

A quick disclaimer: Take this with a grain de sel.

My qualifications? I lived in France in my early twenties, worked as a nanny/au pair for multiple French families, and still visit nearly every year. One of my dearest friends (who happens to be French) is currently training to become a doula, and I’ve spent way too many hours researching what *actually* works.

The best part? Everything on this list is available in the U.S., so you don’t have to bribe a friend in Paris to smuggle baby gear in their suitcase.

 

 

Parisian Mom Must-Haves

A Liste de Naissance…essentially “baby list or registry”, but make it French.

While baby showers aren’t as common in France, some parents-to-be create a liste de naissance—essentially a registry for gifts. That said, many people wait until after the baby is born to give presents (stemming from superstition).

Is some of this a little extra? Probably. But if you clicked on this link, bienvenue. 😉 Also, if you have already read or you have “Bringing Up Bébé” in your cart/to-be-read pile, this is for you.

This guide will break down the following:

• French Diapering Essentials (and Why the French Don’t Use Baby Wipes)
• Chic French Diaper Bag
• French Baby Boutiques and Clothing
• French Feeding Options for Babies
• French Skincare for Moms and Babies
• French/European Stroller Models
• French Baby Books
• The Best Sneakers While Pregnant

 

French Diapering Essentials (and Why the French Don’t Use Baby Wipes)

French diapering cream—also known as liniment lotion—is a multitasking staple in French nurseries. This olive oil-based lotion is used to cleanse, protect, and moisturize a baby’s delicate skin, all without the need for excessive rubbing or rinsing. Thanks to its simple yet effective blend of olive oil and limewater, liniment helps neutralize the acidity of urine and stool, creating a natural barrier against diaper rash.

In short? No wipes. No rinsing. No problem.

Okay, well there are *some* wipes — whether that’s cloth or cotton, but no packages of pre-wetted wipes is essentially what I’m saying.

 

Liniment & Cotton Pads

Instead of traditional wipes, French parents typically use liniment with large cotton pads or ovals to gently clean their baby’s bottom. It’s effective, soothing, and—bonus—doubles as a moisturizer. Many parents also use it après-bath for an all-over hydration boost.

Go-To Brands for Liniment:

• Mustela — this is available in most French markets/stores and my registry was stacked with Mustela goodies. Mustela’s product line is chef’s kiss—gentle, hypoallergenic, and formulated with natural ingredients. It’s so good, they’ve even expanded into solutions for baby congestion, eczema, and beyond. If you haven’t explored Mustela yet, consider this your invitation.
• Propre — owned by an American mom who lives in Paris; she loved the stuff so much that she founded a brand available in the US
• La Petite Crème — Made in Florida by two French mamas!

Cloth Diapers & Diaper Rash Remedies

For those embracing cloth diapering (or just trying to cut down on disposable waste), liniment pairs beautifully with reusable cloth wipes.

And when it comes to tackling diaper rash, the French swear by:

• Bepanthen – A breathable barrier cream enriched with dexpanthenol, free from fragrances, preservatives, and colorants.
• Avène Cicalfate – our household’s Swiss Army knife of creams—perfect for diaper rash, scrapes, and even my own nighttime skincare routine.

 

Chic French Diaper Bag

I searched high and low for a diaper bag that didn’t scream diaper bag—something stylish yet practical, with plenty of space and compartments. My ideal find? A real leather bag built to last (nothing against faux alternatives, but there’s nothing chic about peeling “vegan leather”).

Enter the bébé poussette—aka the Josefina Large Bag. Made of 100% cowhide nubuck-finished leather, this beauty is designed in France and handcrafted in Spain. Inside, it’s thoughtfully compartmentalized for peak organization:

• 2 large pockets for baby and mom essentials
• 2 bottle pockets (or, let’s be real, coffee slots)
• 1 spacious central compartment for everything else—diapers, a change of clothes, even a laptop

The adjustable shoulder strap clips onto a stroller with ease, and the bag can be monogrammed for an extra touch of je ne sais quoi.

I love that it’s roomy but still sleek—a diaper bag in disguise. And once it’s done serving baby duty, I fully plan to repurpose it as my work bag (because yes, it fits both my computer and laptop with extra room to spare).

Chic et functional? Oui, oui.

French Baby Boutiques & Clothing

When it comes to dressing little ones, these French baby boutiques offer timeless charm, quality fabrics, and a touch of elegance. Some pieces lean on the pricier side, but they’re perfect for special occasions, photoshoots, or simply indulging in a bit of French chic for your bébé.

Tartine et Chocolat

A staple in French children’s fashion since 1977, Tartine et Chocolat is synonymous with timeless elegance. While some pieces are an investment, they’re absolutely stunning for special occasions or photoshoots.

Sam & Louloute

This brand seems to have frequent 40-50% off “Flash Sale” floating around on Instagram, so definitely keep an eye out! They specialize in classic French outfits with vintage charm—delicate knitwear, intricate patterns, and a soft neutral palette that gives a subtle nod to nostalgia. Quite a few of my favorite pieces for our little ones are from here!

Petit Bateau

One of the oldest children’s brands in France, Petit Bateau has been making classic staples since the 1920s. Their most iconic pieces? La marinière (the timeless striped shirt that all French people seem to own), yellow rain boots, and cirés—especially their signature yellow rain jacket with a white-and-blue-striped interior. It’s classic, practical, and effortlessly French.

Deux par Deux

Jacadi Paris

Founded in 1976, Jacadi Paris blends traditional silhouettes with a modern touch. If you’re looking for a flower girl dress or polished shoes for little ones (ages 0-12), this is the place. Their pleated collar blouses and iconic Mary Janes are chef’s kiss, and they even have U.S. stores! A little on the pricey side, but their sales are très worth it.

Fun French fact: The name Jacadi comes from the French children’s game “Jacques a dit”, the equivalent of Simon Says!

Cyrillus

A go-to for chic, everyday French children’s fashion with a mix of classic and modern styles.

Emile et Ida

Think slightly retro, whimsical, and effortlessly cool—the kind of pieces that wouldn’t look out of place in a Wes Anderson film. Their collections feel playful yet refined, perfect for parents who love a bit of vintage charm.

Vertbaudet

Affordable, stylish, and very practical, Vertbaudet is a longtime favorite for French parents. They offer adorable baby and kids’ clothing, but also nursery decor, maternity wear, and even clever storage solutions. Bonus: they frequently run great sales, so you can stock up without breaking the bank!

Monoprix

Okay, so this one isn’t *really* available in the U.S., but I have to mention it. Think of Monoprix as the French Target—affordable, stylish, and dangerously easy to fill a cart. I stocked up on baby clothes during my last trip to France when I suspected I might be pregnant… little did I know at the time that it was twins!

If you find yourself in France, don’t sleep on Monoprix—the fabrics and styles are fantastic while still being budget-friendly.

French Feeding Options for Babies

Béaba

Béaba is the gold standard for baby food prep. Their Babycook is a game-changer, steaming and blending homemade purées in one sleek, compact machine. They also offer stylish silicone bibs, divided plates, and spill-proof cups.

Élhée

This brand makes soft, medical-grade silicone baby bottles that are ergonomic, lightweight, and toxin-free. Their bottles have a unique round shape that mimics the feel of breastfeeding, making the transition between breast and bottle smoother. Bonus: they’re gorgeous.

(Okay, that doesn’t really matter because truly, you won’t know which bottle your little one is bound to take…but they’re fun to look at!)

Distinctly French Feeding Thoughts and Techniques

Overall, French parenting has a structured yet effortlessly relaxed, much like a Parisian enjoying a leisurely déjeuner. Of course, c’est une généralisation—these are simply observations from my time nannying in Paris. As I mentioned earlier, take it all with a grain of fleur de sel—every family (and bébé!) is different.

At the end of the day, faites comme vous voulez—do what works best for you!

1. Diversification (Early Flavor Exposure)

French parents introduce a wide variety of flavors early on, often starting solids with puréed vegetables rather than cereals. Babies are encouraged to taste different foods, including mild herbs and spices, to develop their palates.

2. Structured Meal Times

French little ones typically eat at set times, aligning with the family’s meal schedule. Snacking between meals is less common, as parents prioritize balanced meals over grazing throughout the day.

Later on, a distinct afternoon snack called “gôuter” becomes a staple (at about 4pm/after school).

It’s typically a sweet snack to keep kids rallying until dinner. One of the kids I used to nanny really loved plain Greek yogurt with a heaping spoonful of brown sugar. I tried it a few times…and honestly, it was pretty darn good. 

3. The Importance of Fresh, Real Food

Homemade baby food is preferred over store-bought jars. Parents often steam and purée fresh vegetables, and even small amounts of meat, fish, or cheese are introduced early. Keeping things simple, natural, and minimally processed is the key. The Béaba is perfect for this!

Things like plain yogurt (yaourt nature) is often served with a bit of fruit purée, and kids are introduced to cheese fairly early. 

4. No Special “Kid Food”

French babies eat what the adults eat—just in softer or more manageable forms. There’s much less emphasis on “kid-friendly” meals like chicken nuggets or mac and cheese. The meal is whatever the parents are having.

It’s good to note that specific “kid menus” are not common across France — you may find smaller portions, but you won’t find American staples on most menus. 

 

French Skincare for Moms and Babies

When it comes to skincare, the French know a thing or two about creating gentle yet effective products for both babies and mamas. From soothing newborn skin to tackling postpartum dryness, these favorites have earned a permanent spot on our shelves.

The Liniment Lowdown – I’ve already sung the praises of liniment for diaper changes, but it’s worth mentioning again—it’s that good. A gentle, olive oil-based cleanser that keeps baby’s skin soft, protected, and free from irritation.

Bath Time Bliss – Mustela’s baby washes and lotions make post-bath cuddles even sweeter. Their avocado-based baby massage oil is perfect for a nighttime routine—because who doesn’t love a little spa treatment before bed?

Eczema and Dry Skin Saviors – For those who are eczema-prone (like yours truly), Avene’s XeraCalm A.D Crème has been a game-changer for keeping skin hydrated and happy.

Gentle Cleansing & Tangle Taming – Klorane’s 2-in-1 shampoo and body wash is a staple.

La Roche-Posay Love Affair – While not necessarily a baby brand, my husband and I swear by La Roche-Posay for our own skincare needs. We stocked up last time we were in Paris, but luckily, many of their products are available on Amazon and in U.S. stores.

Because in true French fashion, skincare isn’t just a routine—it’s a ritual.

 

French & European Stroller Models and Gadgets

When it comes to strollers and baby gear, European parents prioritize practicality, durability, and sleek design over excess. Unlike in the U.S., where high-tech baby gadgets reign supreme, many European families stick to high-quality essentials that seamlessly fit into their lifestyle—whether that means navigating cobblestone streets, hopping on public transit, or squeezing into a petite Parisian apartment.

Again, take this with a grain of salt, as it’s entirely dependent on your unique situation, priorities, and comfort. There are a ton of other strollers on the market, this is just based on what I’ve seen or experienced.

Cybex – A favorite across Europe, Cybex strollers are stylish, functional, and designed to adapt to urban life. Cybex hails from Germany, but it absolutely deserves a spot on this list for its smart design and city-friendly features.

For our twins, we chose the Cybex Gazelle S, and it’s the perfect balance of functionality and size. Unlike some double strollers that feel like you’re pushing a bulky SUV, the Gazelle is sleek, compact, and easy to maneuver, without sacrificing comfort for both babies.

We did consider the Bugaboo—I love the idea of having both little ones side by side—but the reality of squeezing that stroller into coffee shops, narrow sidewalks, or small doorways? Not happening. The Gazelle keeps things practical while still offering the versatility and storage space we need. For any parent juggling twins (or planning for two kiddos close in age), the Cybex Gazelle S is an absolute game-changer!

Babyzen YOYO+ – If you’ve ever strolled through Paris, you’ve likely seen the Babyzen YOYO+ on every corner. This ultra-compact stroller folds in seconds and is small enough to fit in an airplane’s overhead bin—no more gate-checking nightmares! It’s lightweight, effortless to maneuver, and ideal for public transportation. For travel and city life, this stroller is worth every penny. Whether in Paris, London, or Rome, this stroller is practically a parenting uniform.

Note: A Different Approach to Baby Gadgets

While the U.S. market is flooded with high-tech baby gadgets (smart bassinets, AI baby monitors, white noise machines, and sleep-training devices), European parents tend toflite keep it simple. There are a few reasons for this:

Cultural Priorities – The U.S. puts a strong emphasis on baby sleep due to shorter parental leave policies, making gadgets like the Snoo bassinet wildly popular. In contrast, European countries often have more generous leave, reducing pressure to optimize newborn sleep.

Space Constraints – Many European families live in smaller apartments and simply don’t have the space for an overload of baby gear.

Focus on Quality Over Quantity – Instead of the latest tech, French parents often invest in high-quality, durable essentials made from natural materials.

At the end of the day, less is more in the world of French parenting. A well-designed stroller, a few timeless essentials, and a touch of effortless style—that’s the European way.

 

French Books for Babies: A Literary Start en Français

Introducing your little one to French books early on is a wonderful way to immerse them in the language while fostering a love for reading. Here are some beloved French baby books that are engaging, beautifully illustrated, and perfect for bedtime snuggles.

Beloved French Children’s Authors

Élise Gravel: Known for her quirky, humorous, and expressive illustrations, her books are a favorite among little readers.

• Je suis terrible – A playful and fun book full of silly characters and engaging visuals.
• P’tit Loup – This lovable little wolf is a hit with toddlers, teaching valuable lessons through charming stories.

Caroline Jayne Church: These board books are perfect for bedtime and help instill a sense of love and security.

• Un amour de chiot  – A heartwarming story about a little puppy.
• Mon petit bout de chou  – A tender book celebrating the special bond between parent and child.
• Bonne nuit, je t’aime  – A soothing bedtime story to wind down the day.
• Je t’aime de la tête aux pieds  – A sweet way to express love from head to toe.
• Mon amour pour toujours  – A beautiful book about unconditional love.

Other Must-Have French Baby Books

• Devine combien je t’aime (Guess How Much I Love You) – The classic tale of love between Little Nutbrown Hare and Big Nutbrown Hare, translated into French.
• Regarde comme je t’aime – A visually stunning, interactive book with contrasting colors, perfect for a baby’s developing vision.
• Petit bleu et petit jaune – A simple but powerful story about friendship and colors, a French classic loved by generations.

Whether you’re looking for sentimental bedtime stories, silly characters, or colorful, interactive books, these French selections are perfect for raising a little bookworm en français!

 

The Best Sneakers While Pregnant

While this isn’t a French brand, I had to include my favorite sneakers on this list—because if there’s one thing to know about Parisian style, it’s that sneakers are worn everywhere, all the time.

Introducing Kiziks—the ultimate slip-on sneaker for anyone who wants comfort, style, and convenience in one. Whether you’re chasing after little ones, navigating cobblestone streets, or just need a pair of shoes that won’t aggravate back pain or sciatica, these are a game-changer.

I’ve gone through multiple pairs, and for good reason! My top picks:

• Vegas Sneaker – A classic, stylish option for everyday wear.
• Athens – A more athletic style, perfect for long walks around the city.

If you love the effortless Parisian “sneakers-with-everything” vibe, but want easy, hands-free wear, Kiziks are a must-have for your collection.

French Baby Must Have

Oh, and I would be remiss if I forgot to include Sophie…

No French baby registry is complete without Sophie la Girafe! This iconic teething toy has been a staple in French nurseries since 1961—practically a rite of passage for les bébés français. Made from 100% natural rubber and food-grade paint, Sophie is safe for little gums to chomp on while also stimulating all five senses with her gentle squeak, soft texture, and easy-to-grasp shape.

She’s lightweight, timelessly chic, and—let’s be honest—quintessentially French. If you want to add a touch of Parisian bébé flair to your registry, voilà, Sophie is a must!

There you have it — some of the top picks for a French-inspired baby registry or French baby essentials. Anything you would add to the list for French baby must haves?