Real talk, helpful recs, and smart shortcuts for moms who don’t have time to waste. From baby gear breakdowns to working mom survival tools, I cover what actually works — with a little humor, a little sass, and zero gatekeeping.
The Bestie Blog
How to Clean Baby Gear Without Losing Your Will to Live
(From someone who’s cleaned more strollers than she’s had hot baths in the last 10 years.)
Let’s get real: baby gear is gross. It’s sticky, crumb-filled, and mysteriously always smells like something fermented. But it doesn’t have to be a nightmare to clean—especially if you’ve got the right tips (and the right mindset).
I’ve cleaned thousands of items as a BabyQuip Quality Provider and gear expert—and spoiler alert—Wirecutter even interviewed me for their ultimate guide to cleaning strollers. So yes, you’re in good hands.
1. Don’t Wing It—Check the Manual First
Before you go rogue with a screwdriver and bleach, check the manufacturer's instructions. Not every seat pad is machine washable (ask me how I know 😅). Some gear can be gently hosed down. Some… should never touch water. Ever. And car seats, those are serious business. It's all fun and games until it comes to a life-saving device. Using the wrong products or methods on car seats can render them unusable according to the manufacturer. Think twice before wiping those down with Lysol wipes!
2. Vacuum Like You Mean It
Start by removing the obvious debris—Goldfish crumbs, playground sand, mystery fuzz—using a handheld vacuum or even a shop vac if you're feeling powerful. A soft brush attachment works great for crumbs in crevices, while a toothbrush handles the truly cursed spots. Do you have an air compressor in the garage or a can of compressed air by the keyboard? Blow the crumbs out of all the nooks and crannies!
3. The Stroller Deep Clean, Expert Edition
Wirecutter tapped me for their cleaning guide because, let’s be honest, I’ve been around the stroller block. My go-to process:
Mix mild soap (like baby shampoo) with warm water.
Use a cloth or sponge to spot clean fabric.
Wipe plastic and metal with baby-safe disinfectant.
Let it all air dry in the sun—nature’s free sanitizer.
🧼 Read the full feature here: Wirecutter Guide
4. Yes, Vinegar Works. No, It Won’t Make Your Gear Smell Like a Salad (Forever)
A 50/50 mix of distilled white vinegar and water is fantastic for mildew and stink—but test on a hidden area first. I promise the smell fades. (Your toddler's melted fruit snack? That might not.) However, vinegar is NOT approved for car seats, so only mild soap and water for those.
5. Machine Wash with Caution
If the fabric cover is washable (check the tag!), toss it on a gentle cold cycle. But never put gear parts in the dryer—unless you want to reinvent the shape of your infant insert. Air dry everything and pray your kids don’t touch it while it’s drying.
6. Want It Really Clean? Let a Pro Handle It.
If your car seat smells like road trip trauma or your stroller is sticky beyond repair, BabyQuip offers gear cleaning in many cities (yes, including me 👋). We’re talking pro-grade cleaning and a gear glow-up that’ll make you say “was that always white?”
🧽 Check for local BabyQuip cleaning services
Final Thought:
You don’t need to be a domestic goddess to have clean baby gear—you just need a few expert tricks, some patience, and maybe a little help. And if your gear still smells like regret? You’ve got options.
5 Things I Bought in May That I Didn’t Regret
(Cue the applause and the great skin.)
Look, I buy a lot of things. Some are “why did I do that?” and others? Chef’s kiss. This month, I happened to crush it. Here are five purchases that delivered—on hydration, glow, convenience, and cuteness.
1. Fino Hair Oil – for Rich Mom Hair Energy
This Japanese hair oil is liquid gold. It makes my hair shiny, soft, and smell like I actually went to the salon (even if I’m just at school pickup in sweats). A little goes a long way so the bottle lasts forever. Even my fine hair can handle just a little dab every day to shine’er up!
🛒 Get silky hair here
2. Medicube PDRN Pink Niacinamide Toner – My Glass Skin Era
I have no chill about this Korean toner https://amzn.to/4mxwXT7. It’s hydrating, soothing, and gives that “glass skin” glow we all chase on TikTok. Bonus: it actually works under makeup and doesn't make me break out.
🛒 Glow up here
3. Clean Skin Club Clean² Pads 2.0 – Washcloths? Never Heard of Her.
These disposable face pads are absurdly thick and soft, like the fancy spa version of a cotton round (square). I use them with micellar water to remove makeup, wipe off mascara smudges, clean boo-boos, you name it. I get them on auto-delivery because I refuse to be without them.
🛒 Stock up like I do
4. Single-Serve Bone Broth Packets – Wellness Without the Boil
I love a warm drink that isn’t coffee (IYKYK). These individual bone broth packets are my go-to when I want something comforting and protein-packed, but don’t have time to babysit a simmering pot like some homesteader on YouTube.
🛒 Add-to-cart-worthy broth
5. The Letter Necklace I’ve Been Wearing on Repeat
This one from Local Eclectic is dainty, personal, and goes with everything. Heads up: popular letters sell out fast. If you need something now, this Amazon version ships next-day and still gives classy, not cheap.
🛒 Etsy version
🛒 Amazon dupe
Why I’m Now Booking Tours Through GoWithGuide (And You Should Too)
You know I’m all about making family travel easier—and honestly? A good tour guide can make or break a trip. That’s why I’m so excited to officially partner with GoWithGuide. They’re not your typical big-bus tour company. This is travel made personal.
What Is GoWithGuide?
Think of GoWithGuide like the Airbnb of tour guides. You choose your destination, then pick a local expert who creates a private, customizable experience just for you and your crew. Want a street food crawl in Tokyo with a kid-friendly twist? Done. A chill walking tour in Rome where you can stop for gelato every hour? Say less. Not traveling internationally? Hit all the family-friendly secret spots with a local New Yorker, see the Hollywood sights with an experienced Angelino, or find another expert to tour you around wherever your family desires.
You’re not stuck with the standard one-size-fits-all tour that moves at grandma speed or ignores your toddler’s meltdown schedule. You set the pace, ask the questions, and get the inside scoop from a local who actually lives there.
Why I Love It (and Why You Will Too)
Local, vetted guides: These aren’t random freelancers. These are passionate pros who love showing off their city.
Custom itineraries: No boring tourist traps unless you want the cheesy photo op.
One-on-one experiences: No strangers. No megaphones. Just your people.
Family-friendly options: Many guides cater to families, and you can message ahead to confirm diaper bag breaks and snack stops.
Perfect for Family Travel
If you’ve followed me for more than five minutes, you know I’m not into over-complicating travel. I want real experiences that don’t feel like logistical nightmares. Booking a private tour with GoWithGuide lets you:
Avoid the crowds
Keep your kids engaged
Actually learn something without having to Google “What did we just see?”
You know I only recommend things I’d use myself (and honestly, I already am planning our next family trip with a GoWithGuide tour locked in).
👉 Click here to find your perfect tour and thank me later.
✈️ Travel Must-Haves for Moms Who Actually Want to Enjoy the Trip
Traveling with kids is not for the weak. It’s for the caffeinated, the prepared, and the parents who know that one solid gear upgrade can change the game. Here are my go-to travel must-haves that save my sanity every time—and yes, they’re all products I actually use.
🧳 1. WAYB Pico Travel Car Seat
Say goodbye to dragging a clunky car seat through the terminal like it’s your personal punishment. The WAYB Pico folds flat, weighs just 8 pounds, and installs in seconds. It’s TSA-friendly, FAA-approved, and sanity-saving.
👉 Grab the WAYB Pico here and use my code for free shipping!!
✨ 2. Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib
You know what doesn’t belong on vacation? A pack-and-play that weighs 50 pounds. The Lotus Travel Crib is ultra-light, folds into a backpack, and sets up faster than your toddler can ask for snacks. Seriously, this bad boy is AWESOME for traveling parents who need SLEEP!
👉 Check it out here
🛞 3. Step2 Whisper Ride Cruiser
It’s part stroller, part push car, and 100% energy-burner. The Step2 Whisper Ride Cruiser is my secret weapon for keeping toddlers entertained and contained while exploring walkable cities, airports, or even hotel hallways.
👉 Shop Step2’s travel-friendly rides here with my code!
🌈 4. Colugo Compact Stroller
Compact, cute, and built for travel chaos. The Colugo Compact folds one-handed (bless), reclines for naps, and fits in most overhead bins. It’s also way chicer than the travel strollers of yesteryear. It even comes with a backpack carrying case, making it SO portable.
👉 Colugo Compact Stroller
🎧 5. Busy Baby Silicone Mat
This magical mat sticks to plane trays, restaurant tables, and windows (yes, windows) and keeps your kid from launching toys into the abyss.
👉 Busy Baby Mat on Amazon ← direct affiliate link
🧼 6. The Ultimate Mom Pouch
Wipes, snacks, stain remover, a mini pharmacy, and that one lip balm you’ll never find again. Keep it all in a zippered pouch so you’re not elbow-deep in your bag searching for Band-Aids during a gate delay. If you’re like me and tend to forget that ONE THING, this pouch has it all and you don’t even have to fill it yourself!
👉 Toiletry Travel Kit ← direct affiliate link
☕ 7. Your Personal Hydration & Caffeine Survival Kit
Staying hydrated and semi-human is the name of the game. Pack your water bottle, hydration packets, and preferred caffeine (you already know I’ve got a Coke Zero within arm’s reach). Try Liquid IV for those long travel days when you just can’t seem to stay hydrated enough/
👉 Liquid IV ← direct affiliate link
✨ Final Pro Tip:
Traveling with kids doesn’t have to be chaotic. With the right gear, it can be almost enjoyable. And when in doubt? Lower expectations, raise snacks. Repeat.
Working Mom Essentials You'll Actually Use
(Because we don't have time for fluff—or another gratitude journal we won’t open. Don’t lie to me. You won’t.)
Whether you're hustling from your home office, the school pick-up line, or a red-eye flight with goldfish in your bra, working moms need gear that actually works. No more “aspirational” gadgets collecting dust—this list is the real MVP lineup.
1. The One-Click Undereye Savior
Sleep is a suggestion, not a guarantee. These hydrogel eye patches with microneedles and caffeine help you fake 8 hours in 10 minutes flat.
Try: skyn ICELAND Hydro Cool Firming Under Eye Patches
2. A Charger That Does As Much As You Do
This multi-tasking charger will blow other power strips out of…the wall? If you’re anything like me, your home office is exploding with screens, plugs, devices, and charges. Keep them all organized and neat with this power station.
🛍 Try: Power Strip Tower With Surge Protector – Because blowing a fuse is so 2010.
3. The World's Most Magical Stain Remover
For coffee spills, baby spit-up, or whatever that mystery spot is, right before your big presentation. I’ve tried it and it works on everything. Ask me how I know.
🛍 Try this: Miss Mouth’s Messy Eater Stain Treater – It’s a cult favorite for a reason.
4. A Compact Ring Light
Whether you’re on Zoom, recording a Reel or taking a picture for your security badge, good lighting makes a difference.
🛍 Try this: Desk Ring Light with Stand – Clips to your laptop or stands on your desk/table, making you look like you slept (even if you didn’t).
5. A Mini Desk Fan (Yes, Really)
Hormones? Deadlines? Both? A cute personal fan will save you from the mid-call flop sweat.
🛍 Try this: Jisulife Portable Fan – Rechargeable, quiet, and TikTok famous.
6. A Tiny Vacuum You’ll Want to Marry
Desk crumbs, car snacks, purse disasters—this thing handles it all and looks cute doing it.
🛍 Try: Brigii Mini Vacuum – Equal parts functional and oddly satisfying.
7. Noise Reducing Earplugs
I don’t want to hear everything, just the important stuff. Like “FIRE” or “UH OH!”
🛍 Try: Loop Quiet 2 Earplugs - comfortable, stylish, and make you feel like you’re in a quiet(er) dream world.
8. Grocery Delivery Service
Not to be dramatic, but getting a grocery delivery service changed my life. It saves me HOURS, I can just re-order what my picky eaters don’t eat every week and I don’t have to brave the crowds.
🛍 Try: Amazon Fresh- no more impulse buys in the candy aisle…
Final Mic Drop
Working moms don’t need more pressure—we need more practical magic. These finds won’t change your life (unless that vacuum really speaks to you), but they will make your day-to-day feel a little less chaotic and a lot more competent.
Want more genius finds?
Follow me on Instagram @sarahknowshersstuff for no-fluff advice, gear recs, and mom life that’s as real as your unread Slack DMs.
Working From Home With Kids: Real-Life Tips for Remote Work Survival
Working from home with kids is hard. You’re juggling parenting and productivity like a champ—even when it feels like a circus act. Give yourself credit, lower the bar when you need to, and remember: if everyone’s alive and the WiFi still works, you’re doing amazing.
Working remotely with children at home can feel like a full-contact sport. Whether you're balancing Zoom meetings, snack requests, or the occasional toddler meltdown, it's a challenge millions of parents are navigating every day.
Here’s how to make working from home with kids not just manageable, but actually workable.
1. Set Clear Boundaries for Work and Family Time
Establishing boundaries is essential when working from home with children. Create visual signals (like a closed door or headphones) that indicate “do not disturb” time. Be consistent and repeat expectations daily—kids forget faster than Chrome eats up RAM.
2. Create a Mini Workspace for Your Kids
One of the best ways to encourage independent play during work hours is to give your kids their own “office.” Use an old keyboard, some coloring pages, and kid-safe headphones to mimic your setup. It gives them a sense of control—and keeps your real laptop safe from sticky fingers.
3. Accept—and Normalize—Background Noise
Remote work with children isn't going to be quiet, and that’s okay. Most teams now understand that parenting while working from home is real life. If your toddler joins your video call or your dog barks mid-presentation, roll with it. It’s relatable, not unprofessional.
4. Use Time Blocks and Work in Sprints
The key to working from home with young kids is flexibility. Instead of aiming for long, uninterrupted hours, break your workday into sprints. Use nap time, screen time, or early mornings for deep focus, and lighter tasks for more chaotic moments.
5. Don’t Underestimate the Power of Bribery
A little positive reinforcement (read: snacks or screen time) can go a long way. Keep a stash of easy wins for when you need 15 minutes of uninterrupted focus. It’s not bribery—it’s strategic motivation. We’re the CEO of our house and kids!
6. Invest in Remote Work Essentials
Whether you're managing meetings or emails, having the right tools makes all the difference. A few must-haves for remote work parents:
Noise-canceling headphones to block out background chaos
A sturdy wagon or an easy-to-push stroller for midday walks (everyone needs to get out their yayas)
A stand for your eyeglasses (stop and start constantly means setting my glasses down and losing them)
An educational bribery device for when you really just need to get stuff done
(Affiliate links may be included. See full list here: LinkTree)
Final Thoughts on Working Remotely with Kids
Working from home with kids isn’t easy—but it is doable. You’re teaching your children flexibility, resilience, and the importance of balancing work and family life. And that’s something to be proud of, even if your desk is covered in Goldfish crumbs.
Need help choosing gear that makes life easier? I’ve tested the best baby gear for remote-working parents. Shop my top picks for strollers, toddler beds, and travel cribs right here.
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Family-Friendly Mini Getaways in Southern California
Quick weekend escapes that are kid-approved and grown-up-friendly
If you're dreaming of a getaway that doesn’t require a plane ticket, a week off work, or a meltdown in security, this one’s for you. Southern California is packed with amazing family-friendly destinations that are perfect for quick weekend trips with kids. Whether you're chasing sunshine, fresh air, or just a new backdrop for your snack breaks, I’ve rounded up my favorite kid-approved getaways that actually feel like a vacation.
1. Palm Springs, CA – Desert Getaway for Families with Style
Looking for a warm, sunny weekend trip with the kids? Palm Springs delivers. With year-round sunshine, family-friendly resorts, and retro charm, this desert town is perfect for relaxing and playing. Visit the Living Desert Zoo & Gardens, ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for panoramic views, or splash all day in the hotel pool.
🧳 Travel Tip: Choose a hotel or vacation rental with kitchen access and make most meals yourself. Less time spent dining out with kids who don’t eat anything anyway.
2. Santa Barbara, CA – California Coast Charm for the Whole Family
Santa Barbara is where coastal relaxation meets family fun. Take a stroll down Stearns Wharf, visit the Santa Barbara Zoo (yes, it’s walkable and adorable), and let the little ones run wild at Chase Palm Park. Parents can sneak in a wine tasting or grab a fancy coffee while the kids build sandcastles.
📸 Bonus: It’s incredibly photogenic, with tons of stroller-friendly paths and ocean views.
3. San Diego, CA – Ultimate Southern California Family Destination
San Diego might just be the MVP of kid-friendly travel. With iconic attractions like the San Diego Zoo, LEGOLAND California, and SeaWorld San Diego, there’s no shortage of fun. But beyond the big-ticket stops, you’ll find family beaches, interactive museums, and beautiful parks that make it easy to relax while the kids stay entertained.
🌴 Pro Tip: Skip overpacking by using a baby gear rental service—less stuff, more fun.
4. Lake Arrowhead, CA – Mountain Retreat Without the Stress
Just a couple hours from LA, Lake Arrowhead offers a cozy, peaceful escape in the San Bernardino Mountains. Think lake views, forest hikes, paddle boats, and charming village vibes. It’s the perfect spot for unplugged family bonding, especially in fall or spring when the weather is crisp but not freezing.
🏕 Why it works: Plenty of spacious vacation rentals, low-key outdoor activities, and a slower pace that works with kids' rhythms.
5. Joshua Tree, CA – Desert Adventure That’s Surprisingly Kid-Friendly
Joshua Tree National Park is more than an artsy Instagram backdrop—it’s a wonderland for curious kids. Giant boulders to climb, open desert to explore, and a star-studded night sky that makes bedtime negotiable. Stay in a fun Airbnb or glamp it up nearby for a low-key adventure that still feels exciting.
✨ Insider Insight: Bring your own bedtime comforts (blackout curtains in the summer are KEY). It helps after a full day of outdoor exploring.
Quick Tips for Easy Family Travel:
Pack lighter. Baby gear rentals are available in most cities—skip the full trunk struggle.
One major activity per day. Keep it simple and leave room for spontaneous fun.
Look for walkable destinations. Less time in the car = happier kids (and parents).
Southern California is basically built for weekend family getaways. Whether you're craving beaches, mountains, or desert magic, there's a destination just a short drive away that's ready to deliver fresh air, fun, and fewer tantrums.
Ready to plan your next mini escape? Let me know where you're heading—and tag @sarahknowsherstuff if you spot one of my favorite strollers in the wild. ☀️
Mother’s Day Reflections: The Day Came, The Day Went
Well, Mother’s Day came and went. And if you're anything like me, you're probably still a little emotionally hungover.
Maybe you got breakfast in bed. Perhaps you were the one cooking it. Maybe you had a beautiful day with your family, or it felt bittersweet, chaotic, and flat-out exhausting. For moms, Mother’s Day rarely looks like the picture-perfect version we see online.
Now that the flowers are wilting and the cards are shoved in a drawer, I’ve been reflecting on what this day really brought up—and what it means to actually feel seen and celebrated in motherhood.
Mother’s Day Is a Mirror
Whether you're a new mom, a seasoned parent, or somewhere in between, Mother's Day reflects where we are emotionally.
It shines a light on how supported we feel (or don’t), what we’re still carrying behind the scenes, and how much unspoken labor goes into holding everything together. You can love your family with your whole heart and still feel invisible sometimes. That doesn’t make you ungrateful, it makes you human.
The Real Moments Don’t Make the Social Feed
No one posted the part where you were up late doing laundry so there’d be clean clothes for brunch. Or the moment you cried because it was just too much. Or that quiet ache for a mom you’re missing this year.
These are the parts that matter most. They’re not photogenic, but they are real. And they are a part of your story.
Let the Day Be What It Is
This year, I didn’t try to script Mother’s Day. I didn’t force the magic or over-plan. I just tried to be present. Some parts were lovely, others were not, and I let both exist without guilt.
If your day didn’t go the way you hoped, you’re not alone. And if it did? Amazing, rub it in why don’t ya??? Just kidding. You deserve it.
A Little Self-Care Reminder
If you’re feeling the emotional (and literal) puffiness from all of it, treat yourself to these microneedle under-eye patches that work actual magic on tired eyes. I swear to you, these are like having a lower bleph overnight.
Motherhood is layered. Messy. Sacred. Exhausting. Beautiful. I hope you felt celebrated. And if you didn’t, I hope you at least peed alone a couple of times. That counts too.
What Moms Really Want for Mother’s Day
Heads up: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you click and purchase—at no extra cost to you. I only recommend stuff I’d give my own mom (or hoard for myself). Thanks for supporting Sarah Knows Her Stuff!
Looking for Mother’s Day gift ideas that’ll actually make her feel loved (and not just...tolerated)? Here's the real list of what moms truly want, with zero DIY candles or popsicle stick crafts.
Whether you're shopping for your partner, your mom, your BFF—or treating your damn self (do it)—this gift guide is loaded with thoughtful, practical, and pampering ideas. And yes, I made it super clickable. ADD TO CART, y’all!
A Professional Car Detailing Appointment
Let’s be real—if she’s hauling kids, snacks, and emotional baggage, her car could use a refresh. A professional car detailing gift says “I see your chaos, and I’m here to wipe it clean.” Literally.
✨ Gifting Tip: Don’t just buy a gift card. Book it, confirm it, arrange childcare. Take the mental load off her plate. Maybe even drive her there and have her fave bevie in the car. Its the little things.
Add-On Gift:
→ This handheld car vacuum is perfect for quick cleans in between details. Affordable and mighty.
A Massage—Without Her Lifting a Finger
Want to win Mother’s Day? Schedule a 90-minute massage—and take care of every detail. Book the massage, pre-pay the tip, arrange childcare, and put the laundry in the dryer. It’s time.
Not able to book IRL? Give her at-home vibes with:
Reed Scent Diffuser (I’ve repurchased this for myself and several other people because of how great it is. Smells divine and lasts forever)
Easyplant = Pretty + Low Maintenance
Flowers are out, plants are IN! Especially plants she won’t accidentally kill. Easyplant makes self-watering, low-maintenance indoor plants that look good and don’t need babysitting. I have a few of these in my house and they are the easiest plants to take care of- set it and forget it!
Perfect for moms who love plants—but not plant drama.
→ Shop with my link and treat her to a living gift she can actually keep alive.
Cozy, Indulgent Self-Care Gifts
These aren’t just “fun extras”—they’re gifts she wouldn’t buy for herself but totally deserves:
Silk pillowcase – fancy sleep, frizz-free hair, silkyyyy
Loop Ear Plugs - seriously, how did I live without noise-cancelling headphones?!?
Cooling Body Pillow - one of the best purchases of my life. I’m not kidding.
Time Alone—With No Guilt
Best. Gift. Ever. Plan time just for her—brunch with friends, solo shopping trip for things SHE wants, or three uninterrupted hours at home (no kids).
🚫 No guilt.
✅ Yes to quiet.
💡 Make sure she doesn’t have to coordinate a thing.
So skip the mug, ditch the candle, and give her something that says, “I get it. I see you. And I planned something just for you.” That’s all moms really want. That and their pre-kid belly button.
How to Grow an Audience with Smart Data Tools (No Spreadsheet Required)
If you’ve ever stared at your social media insights like they were ancient runes, you’re not alone. Growing an audience isn’t magic—it’s data. The good news? You don’t need to be a marketing wizard or open a single Excel file. You just need the right tools.
In this post, I’m sharing three must-have data tools for content creators who want to grow fast and smart, without losing their minds or their weekends. Trust me, I do NOT have time to be messin’ around on the internet for hours. I need to know what works and what doesn’t.
Why You Need Data to Grow on Social Media
Most people try to grow their following by guessing: posting at random times, hopping on trends a week too late, and wondering why nobody’s saving their carousel posts. The secret? Using analytics tools that tell you what’s working—and what’s not—so you can stop spinning your wheels and start growing your audience with intention.
Let’s dive into three tools I use (and love) for audience growth across TikTok, Instagram, and beyond.
1. InsightTok AI: The Best TikTok Analytics Tool for Trendspotting
If you’re creating content on TikTok or Instagram Reels, you need InsightTok AI in your life. It helps you track trending audio, discover what’s working in your niche, and optimize your content strategy using real data.
I’ve used it to find songs that actually boost my views and plan content around what’s trending now, not last week. It’s intuitive, powerful, and yes, kind of addicting.
✅ Best for: TikTok creators, short-form video marketers, trend-hunters
📈 Helps with: Trend analysis, content ideas, audience engagement
🔗 Try it here: InsightTok AI – affiliate link
2. Later: Instagram Analytics & Scheduling in One Gorgeous Dashboard
If you’re trying to grow your Instagram following, Later makes it easy to track what content performs best by time of day, hashtag, format, and more. Their visual planner also helps you batch content and maintain a cohesive grid (even when life isn’t cohesive at all).
Want to know which Reels get the most saves or when your followers are actually online? Later gives you all of that, and then some.
✅ Best for: Instagram creators, brand accounts, aesthetic lovers
📈 Helps with: Scheduling, hashtag tracking, post performance
🔗 later.com (free + paid plans)
3. Metricool: One Dashboard to Track Everything (Yes, Everything)
When your content lives on five different platforms, Metricool becomes your new best friend. It lets you schedule posts, view cross-platform analytics, and generate reports that actually make sense.
Whether you're on TikTok, Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube, or your blog, Metricool helps you stay on top of what’s driving growth—without opening 17 browser tabs. (just like in my head)
✅ Best for: Multi-platform creators, small businesses, solopreneurs
📈 Helps with: Scheduling, performance tracking, reporting
🔗 metricool.com
How to Grow a Social Media Audience (Even If You’re Not a Tech Pro)
You don’t have to be an influencer. You don’t need a content team. You just need smart tools that show you how to grow an audience based on data, not desperation.
💡 Pro tip: Combine InsightTok AI for trend discovery, Later for Instagram strategy, and Metricool for everything else. That’s your new creator starter kit. You’re welcome.
Final Thoughts (and a Little Affiliate Love)
If you’re ready to stop guessing and start growing, try these tools and thank me later. Especially InsightTok AI—it’s changed how I create content and helps me grow with way less effort (and more results).
👉 Use my referral link to try it: insighttokai.com/?ref=sarahci
Want more content creation tips, audience growth hacks, and affiliate income strategies? Follow me on Instagram at @sarahknowshersstuff. Because yeah, I really do. ☺️
Things I Bought from Amazon in April That I’m Lowkey Obsessed With
I don’t know what kind of mood I was in this April (chaotic? self-improvement era? nesting even though I don’t have a baby?), but my Amazon order history was thriving. The good news: I regret nothing. Every single one of these things has earned a spot in my regular rotation.
Let’s break it down — what I bought, why I love it, and whether you actually need it too.
(These are affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission — but trust me, I paid full price and would do it again.)
1. Travel White Noise Machine
Link: [https://amzn.to/4lTSV2f]
I'm easily overstimulated…by everything. White noise is essential for me to block out annoying sounds when we’re traveling, in the car, or trying to relax. This one’s small, USB rechargeable, and doesn’t sound like a haunted fan. Sppppppoooooky. YogaSleep is the leader in sound machines, and honestly, I’m about to start keeping this one in my purse for emergencies.
2. Scalp Massager
Link: [https://amzn.to/3YmJ8HP]
I read an article (ok, ok, I watched a TikTok) about scalp massage and its impact on hair growth. After losing literally every strand of hair after having two kids back to back, I can use all the help I can get. Pro tip: Use this scalp massager with a silk bonnet on to stop snags!
3. Sandalwood Wide Tooth Comb
Link: [https://amzn.to/3GviUN6]
It’s wood. It’s wide. It smells like a fancy forest. I got it to loosely comb out my curls that never stay, and it's actually helpful, but it also feels like a dream on my scalp. A small luxury that lives in my bathroom and makes me feel like I’m the kind of woman who has routines.
4. Cooling Side Sleeper Pillow
Link: [https://amzn.to/42EwAhD]
Night sweats? Yeah, I got ‘em. In my desperate attempt to find something to help keep me from waking up drenched at 3am, I purchased this cooling pillow. It really is cooling and makes a huge difference in my heat levels. Be prepared to buy a few- my first THREE were stolen by pillow-hungry family members with no respect for their mother’s perimenopause symptoms. Rude.
5. Hiccapop Toddler Mattress
Link: [https://amzn.to/42EwAhD]
Yes, my kids are older, but this went in our kid’s room for sleepovers, and we bring it out into the living room for movie nights. It folds up, comes with a little travel bag, and is actually comfy. Like, I’ve laid on it. I’d sleep on it. Way better than a lumpy couch cushion or sad inflatable.
I don’t always hit it out of the park with my Amazon orders (RIP to the frother that leaked everywhere, I don’t even drink coffee), but these April finds? Super solid my guy. They’re functional, a little luxurious, and make everyday mom life feel slightly more, you know, together-y.
If you're adding to cart, start here. These are all wins.