I think I’m at the point where I can call myself a veteran mom. At least for babies. I’ve had three babies now and I feel like I have a good grasp on what they need, what I need, and what to expect when I bring them home from the hospital – for the most part. 🙂 All babies are different and some can surprise you!
My sister is pregnant with her first baby and she’s been asking me what she needs for her new baby. Of course we all know the basics: crib, stroller, changing table, clothes, diapers, wipes, pacifiers, etc.
But there are other things that you need to make your life a little easier as a new mom. So I’m writing this post for my sister and anyone else who needs it. So consider this some big sister tips!
Here are my must haves!
Cloth Diaper Burp Cloths
If your baby spits up a lot, you definitely want some good absorbent burp cloths. I highly recommend your basic cloth diapers. You can also easily make them cute by adding fabric or applique. Check out my tutorial!
Washable Nursing Pads
You can buy disposable nursing pads, but I found them to be a little too rough. They irritated me especially during those first few weeks of nursing when everything is super tender and painful. There’s no way around it. It’s just painful. But only for a few weeks and then hopefully you and your baby get it all worked out. 🙂 You’ll save money and will be more comfortable with washable nursing pads. You can find them on Amazon, Etsy shops, etc.
Lansinoh
Or some other nipple cream. As I mentioned above, those first few weeks of nursing are painful and you’re going to need some relief. I find that a cream works. I tried a natural one recently which I liked, so I don’t know if the brand really matters. My sister-in-law begins applying a few weeks before the baby comes which could help make the transition a little easier.
Nursing Cover
I like to nurse in public as long as I’m covered. I don’t like to have to go find somewhere to hide. It’s super inconvenient and sometimes your baby needs to nurse NOW! I love nursing covers! I just came across this awesome cover called The Bomb Shell Shelter. It’s a full-coverage 360 degree cover that allows you to nurse on-the-go in complete confidence. You could literally be nursing in the middle of the park while pushing your older child on a swing, and not flash anything to anyone!
A few of my favorite features include an elastic neckline that allows you to check on baby without allowing anyone else to take a peek. It also has sleeves so you can burp baby or multi task without having to rearrange your clothes.
Also it’s unique square design allows it to double as a play surface or changing pad that will keep even the largest babies off the gross floor.
The best part? They gave me an exclusive discount code to pass along to YOU! Enter the code LEARN on www.BombShelterBaby.com to get $19 off, making the cover only $15.99!
Diaper Bag – With Lots Of Pockets
I think I’m on my third diaper bag now. You pretty much need a new one with each child. They just get worn out! The one I have right now is amazing! It has a ton of pockets on the inside, it converts into a backpack, and it comes with a changing pad. I love it! There are lots of really cute ones out there that looks like regular purses too. It’s up to you and your style, but make sure it has lots pockets. That’s a must!
Swaddling Wrap
If you’re going to swaddle your baby, get a swaddling wrap! We just used blankets for out first two kids which was fine. But you always worry – Did I do it tight enough? Will it come loose and cover their face? There are a lot of stresses and worries that run through your mind when you have a newborn. A swaddling wrap has velcro so it keeps the baby snug and stays in place. It definitely gives you peace of mind! I loved having one for our third baby!
Boppy
I love my boppy! It’s a great pillow that fits around you and makes nursing so much more comfortable. Trust me. You want one.
Car Seat Canopy
This is especially important for the cold weather. It goes over your baby’s carseat and protects them from the weather and germs. It’s also great when they’re asleep and you don’t want people peeking in and waking them up. Because they will. They just can’t resist. And who can blame them? These are actually pretty easy to make yourself or you can buy one. Here’s a great tutorial from Life with My Littles.
Breast Pump
This is a must if you’re a working mom, but even stay at home moms should get one too, but a simple hand pumped one is fine. I just have a cheap version and it’s been great! Sometimes you’re baby won’t eat enough so it’s good to use to keep your supply up. Or they won’t eat enough and the pressure builds up and you need some relief. Or to pump to save it for later if you have a babysitter. It’s also great for when you’re weaning and need some help with the pressure. Weaning is also painful…but just for a few days.
Car Seat Mirror
I don’t know why it took us until we had our third kid before we bought one, but you need a mirror to put in your car on the headrest in front of your baby so you can see them. I don’t know how many times I hear my baby choking or gagging and stressing out because I can’t see them! Or when their siblings pester them so you know why they’re crying. Lots of good reasons.
Baby Carrier
Some sort of carrier is a great idea to have. Some people love Moby’s which is a long piece of material that you wrap around yourself and it holds your baby. Personally my babies have never liked them, but some babies love them. A strappy front carrier is great for the park or walks or errands. They’re both great options so you just have to find one that works for you.
Ikea Bibs
When your baby gets a little older (probably 9+ months), you must get Ikea bibs! They are long sleeved and completely cover their shirt and has a pocket at the bottom to catch the food. They’re like $5 for a pack of 2. Best bibs ever!
Just a few tips and preferences from me!
* When buying a car seat, make sure the straps are adjustable in the front! The ones that adjust in the back are a nightmare.
* My favorite diapers are Huggies. I also like Kirtland and I think Target has the best price for the quality. So we rotate between the 3 of those depending on sales and needs.
* If you can afford it, get a jogging stroller. I really wish I had one!
* Baby nail clippers – they often come with that little protecting piece on the bottom. Honestly I’ve cut more fingers with that stupid thing on! I took it off and it’s been tons better!
* Make sure to always keep an extra blanket in your car and an extra outfit in your diaper bag. You aways seem to need them.
* And always bring medicine with you whenever you’re staying the night somewhere! It never fails that you go on vacation or overnight at grandma’s and they get a runny nose and are miserable all night. Bring the Tylenol!
Don’t forget to register for things for your baby shower! You’ll be surprised how much you get. Good luck! And Congratulations!
Jenny Evans says
Yes to the cloth diaper burp cloths! What's with those tiny, thin little handkerchiefs they get away with calling "burp cloths" at the store? There are also really great ones my mother in law makes out of hand towels that are awesome (i.e: big and really absorbent) too.
ATanner110 says
Hand towels sound like a great idea too!