As a mom of four, I am often asked about what a new mom really needs to have before
her baby arrives. If you believe what the big box stores and “parenting experts”
have to say, you will think that adding one little baby to your house means you need
more than 100 times his/her weight in gear. This simply isn’t true! Here are my Top
10 picks:
- Baby carrier (sling and/or wrap)- Skip the complicated and uncomfortable Snugli or
Bjorn. A simple ring sling like the Maya Wrap or the super comfy Moby Wrap is all
you need. If you are registering or can afford both, you will find the sling is a
great starter carrier and a help in breastfeeding discreetly when out and about,
and the Moby is great for everyday wearing for both mom & dad.
- Nursing pillow– Because positioning is so important in those first few weeks, make
sure you have a comfortable way to keep your baby at breast level. A Boppy or Hugster
pillow will help you accomplish this. (check out www.craigslist.org for used ones)
- Phone number of a local La Leche League Leader– Most difficulties new mothers face
with breastfeeding in the early weeks can be resolved with counseling from an experienced
mother, trained as a LLL Leader. To find a local Leader and/or support group, visit
www.llli.org or call 877-4-LALECHE. If counseling doesn’t resolve your issue, she
can refer you to a Lactation Consultant.
- Cloth Diapers– Reusable diapers are a money-saver, not to mention easy to use, eco-friendly
& adorable.
- Cloth Wipes & wipes solution– With this combo, there is no need for the wipe warmer
or a place to keep wet wipes in the diaper bag. The wipes are versatile (use them
as washcloths or burp cloths) and the solution is all natural.
- Convertible Car Seat– Leave the baby bucket carrier at the store. You’ll save money
(and treat your baby better!) by buying the car seat that can be used rear facing
for an infant and forward facing for a toddler. Wear your baby in the baby carrier
(see #1) when out and about instead of lugging around a car seat carrier & huge stroller
everywhere you go.
- Reusable Nursing Pads– 7-8 pairs should be enough to get you through 2-3 days, even
if you leak heavily. Why use plastic & paper disposable pads when reusable pads are
super soft & absorbent?
- A couple of comfy nursing tops– Whether you go with shirts with hidden flaps for
discreet breastfeeding or tank tops with a built in bra, you will have an easier
time breastfeeding in public if you don’t feel like you are exposing yourself when
your baby needs to eat. Or, for a more cost effective option, check out the Milk
Shirt!
- Portable Infant Swing– for those times when you must take a shower or just need a
break from wearing or holding your baby. The portable swing doesn’t take up much
space or cost as much ( check craigslist for used ones) as the full-size. Use sparingly!
- Pack-n-Play– This is great as a changing station or sleeping area (for babies who
will sleep when not attached to mom). Also great as storage for diapers, toys or
blankets for babies who don’t sleep in it. Once again, check craigslist for used
ones to save $$.
Why didn’t I list things like a crib, dresser or bouncy seat? Because these are not
must-haves! If you choose not to share a bed with your baby, you can use the pack-n-play
instead of a crib. You probably have a dresser for yourself already, so clear out
a drawer for baby clothes (they are really tiny & don’t need a lot anyway). If you
want a bouncy seat, you probably won’t need a swing. They are interchangeable, so
whichever works best for you.
Above all, listen to your instincts when it comes to your baby! As the mother, you
will always know him/her best, no matter what works for other mothers and their babies.
Best wishes in this exciting journey we call mothering!
Diane Turner
Diane@gobabygoshop.com