As a new parent, navigating the overwhelming world of baby gear can be daunting. With Black Friday and Cyber Monday just around the corner, now is the perfect time to score great deals on essential items for your little one. Helen Havlak, Verge publisher and new mom, shares her top picks for baby gear, from smart bassinets to baby carriers, that have made a significant difference in her parenting journey.

For Havlak, one of the most crucial investments was the Snoo, a smart bassinet that soothes your infant with motion and white noise. Currently on sale for $1187, a 30% discount from its original price, the Snoo has been a game-changer for Havlak's baby. While it may not work for every baby, Havlak attests that it has provided her with "truly magical moments" when it successfully puts her baby to sleep.

In addition to the Snoo, Havlak recommends the Guava Lotus Travel Crib, a portable crib that is easy to set up and can be used for older toddlers. Currently on sale for $200, a 29% discount, the Guava Lotus is a great investment for parents who plan to travel frequently with their baby. The Hatch Rest Go, a rechargeable white noise machine, is another must-have for Havlak, who uses it to create a soothing sleep environment for her baby.

For parents who prioritize ergonomics and comfort, Havlak suggests the Beco 8 Baby Carrier, which distributes the weight of the baby to the hips. Currently on sale for $50, a 50% discount, the Beco 8 is a solid choice for baby-wearing. The Solly Wrap, a soft and cozy baby wrap, is another great option for c-section recovery and everyday use.

Other notable deals include the Doona Car Seat and Stroller, a lightweight and versatile car seat that transforms into a stroller, currently on sale for $450, an 18% discount. The Skip Hop Diaper Bag Backpack, a spacious and practical diaper bag, is also a great find, currently on sale for $63, a 20% discount.

For parents who are looking for deals on bottle warmers and changing table accessories, Havlak recommends the Philips Avent Bottle Warmer, currently on sale for $32, a 36% discount, and the OXO Wipes Dispenser, currently on sale for $18, a 22% discount. The Bumco Diaper Cream Spatulas, a set of useful spatulas that suction to the changing table, are also a great find, currently on sale for $12, a 20% discount.

Finally, for parents who are looking for baby toys with batteries, Havlak suggests the Fisher-Price Penguin, a musical penguin toy that cycles through surprisingly boppy remixes, currently on sale for $22, a 45% discount. The Take Along Tunes Musical Toy, a cheap and great little teether and music maker, is also a great option, currently priced at $9.

In conclusion, Black Friday and Cyber Monday offer a great opportunity for parents to score amazing deals on essential baby gear. With Havlak's top picks, parents can find the perfect gifts for their little ones, from smart bassinets to baby carriers, and make their parenting journey a little easier.