While organizing my photos on the computer this week, I came across this list I wrote long ago for a sweet mother, a friend of a friend, who was expecting.
I think it is worthwhile sharing.
It may be helpful to some of you as a starting point when getting everything ready for a new arrival.
Imagine the process to be some kind of TREASURE HUNT, looking for items to make your early parenthood days more comfortable and enjoyable, possibly scanning seasonal bargains in stores if planning ahead, while focusing on practicality and functionality, and still, a chance to surround yourself and your baby to come by BEAUTIFUL things you will use.
I think you shall have fun with it, and enjoy the shopping and research. Ask mothers around you and in chat groups if you’re in doubt what you may truly need.
A baby I hold in my arms these days is six weeks old and loves to settle in her Sleepyhead… There are many so-called ‘baby loungers’ similar to this one these days on the market. To be honest- I’ve used Sleepyhead on many occasions and so far babies were happy with it.
In the list attached I mentioned Red Castle – Cocoonababy Nest. The fact that the baby’s head is a little elevated while resting in it- may help to settle babies who suffer from gastric reflux. The shape also limits the risk of the flat head ( plagiocephaly). I have had a great experience with it from a couple of babies, who’s parents opted for this semi-foetal position emulating cushion, but there are other options to consider.
( UK-link) ( and USA) https://amzn.to/3WgSJwX
Babies seem to like being placed in cosy kind of “ hugging” padded large nest-like mat, where they may feel safe and snuggled …
For the first car seat for your baby- I like this one called Doona … Your back will ‘love’ it too, as the seat once removed from the car turns with one click into an easy-to-move-around stroller. This makes it convenient for new mothers on school runs with bigger siblings or shopping trips. It’s only when you carry around your baby in a car seat that you realize how heavy they are. The average car seat can weigh in excess of 4kg. Baby just keeps growing.
Some other things I like to use and didn’t mention in the list:
Nursing pillow – so handy not only for breastfeeding mother, supporting the baby, helping to position correctly and at the same give rest to her shoulders and arms while required to sit for a long time again and again day and night time to breastfeed the little one. It is great for playtime with baby, tummy time, or just supported semi-sitting/ sitting.
Hooded towels – very easy to make from ordinary towels you already have at home if you enjoy sewing, otherwise so many cute versions out there to choose from.
For bath as well as soft washcloths or sponges– I normally have two sponges to hand – from which one is dedicated just to baby’s face. ( love the natural organic sea sponge- it is really soft and is described by sellers as the most absorbent item on the planet- reading that always makes me smile. ) I like the fact that it is not synthetic material.
Thermometer – so many choices out there. Would say buy two for peace of mind, to compare the reading.
Soft night LED light– – which changes color and responds to touch- I find it a very handy soothing tool for a sleepy tired baby to look at in a dark room. It enables the baby to calm down and relax completely before the lights out moment before bedtime.
Laundry detergent which is safe for baby.
Waterproof mattress covers– not necessary from the very start but quite handy at some point.
Swaddle – I normally keep it simple -use big cotton muslins for full or half swaddle, which can be used for many different purposes throughout your baby’s life ( such as burping cloth, a shade over the pushchair on a sunny day or just to give your baby some privacy and less visual stimulation when in the pram and want him/ her to sleep, fast cover over baby when breastfeeding in public, something clean to place on the sofa when visiting your friend’s and want to let your baby lie down on their fancy couch etc etc)
Sleep sack – nice solution in cooler months of the year, keeping your baby warm and also making it feel’ hugged and snuggled “, similar to a weighted blanket.
Tips for PUMPS needed to express milk. This is based on the advice of an experienced wonderful mother of 3, who is absolutely committed to breastfeeding her children – here is the list of her favorite pumps she used through her motherhood journey:
Silicone cute handy and efficient Haka or NaturBond suction breast pumps. (Great For the very start of your expressing experience and for travelling etc)
Elvie pump – silent wearable responsive electric handsfree portable breast pump, that can be worn in the bra.
And Medela – she swears on the biggest ( strongest) version of Medela breast pump ( Symphony PLUS) which one can rent from Medela company itself. She says it is an absolute must if you want to express efficiently and fast and stimulate a great flow. Rental – seems to be the most convenient option as it is insured and serviced fast by Medela if something goes wrong.
Here are links to the USA and UK page:
https://www.medela.us/breastfeeding/services/breast-pump-rental
https://www.medela-rental.co.uk/
My Intention today was not to go into depth – but just give you some idea about items I personally used and consider useful/practical/necessary FOR NEWBORNS and onwards.
I’m not promoting brands to you.
I would rather help with your first draft of a possible SHOPPING LIST which you can enjoy fine-tuning along the way while counting down to “big” day.
Have fun shopping!
