New Moms: Essential Items For A Smooth Start

New moms need a lot of things to take care of their newborn babies and themselves. Here is a list of some essential items for new moms:

- Diapers and wipes: Newborns need to be changed after every feeding, which is about every three to four hours.

- Clothing: Simple, snap-on outfits are best for newborns, and sleep sacks are recommended instead of blankets to prevent SIDS.

- Crib or bassinet: It should have a firm, snug-fitting mattress, and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends babies sleep in the same room as their parents for at least six months.

- Health essentials: A bulb syringe, baby nail clippers, diaper rash cream, and a digital thermometer are must-haves.

- Healthy snacks: Protein bars, yogurt, nuts, and fresh fruits will help new moms stay nourished on the go.

- Pediatrician: Regular check-ups and immunizations are important, so finding a good pediatrician is essential.

- Car seat: This should be purchased new, as used car seats may have safety issues.

- Bouncy seat and pacifier: These can be a lifesaver when you need to put the baby down but want to keep them close.

- Breastfeeding support: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding for at least the first six months. A breast pump, rocking chair or glider, water bottle, and nursing pillow can be helpful.

- Basic postpartum kit: Perineal healing foam, disposable underwear, cooling pad liners, and maxi pads are essential for new moms.

- Stroller: An adaptable stroller that is car seat-compatible and has multiple seat configurations is ideal.

- Multi-purpose cover: These can be used as nursing covers, shopping cart covers, or scarves and are great for breastfeeding on the go.

- Nursing-friendly pajamas: Button-down tops make nursing easier, and a relaxed fit is comfortable for healing bodies.

- Portable baby bouncer: An ergonomic bouncer will gently cradle and bounce the baby, and some options can be used up to two years.

- Insulated water bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial for new moms, especially those who are breastfeeding.

- Slow cooker: New moms can make batches of meals ahead of time and freeze them for quick and easy meals.

- Handheld vacuum: This will come in handy for spills and messes and can be easily stored with a wall mount charger.

Postpartum essentials: from maxi pads to mesh underwear, nursing bras and nipple cream

Maxi pads

Maxi pads are a must-have for new moms. In the weeks following birth, you will experience postpartum bleeding, also known as lochia, which can last for up to six to eight weeks. Lochia is a combination of blood, tissue, mucus, and fluid from your uterus. To manage this, you'll need the thickest, longest, and fullest coverage maxi pads you can find.

Mesh underwear

Mesh underwear is another essential for new moms. These are disposable, lightweight, stretchy, and comfortable undergarments that hold maxi pads in place without feeling bulky. They are designed to accommodate postpartum bleeding and can be worn with a pad or on their own. Mesh underwear is typically used for a few weeks until the bleeding slows down.

Nursing bras

Nursing bras are essential for breastfeeding moms. They provide comfort and support while also offering easy access for feeding your baby. Look for bras made with soft, stretchy, and breathable fabrics that will be gentle on your skin. It's a good idea to have a few nursing bras and nursing-friendly tops on hand to rotate through washings and quick changes.

Nipple cream

Nipple cream, especially lanolin-based creams, is a must-have for nursing moms. Breastfeeding can be hard on your nipples, and nipple cream will help soothe and protect them. Lanolin-based creams, in particular, not only protect your nipples but also promote healing. Look for a cream that is 100% natural, safe for both you and your baby, and does not need to be removed before breastfeeding.

Baby essentials: diapers, clothing, a crib or bassinet, health items and a car seat

Baby Essentials

Diapers

Diapers are a must-have for new moms. Newborns go through multiple diapers a day, so it's important to stock up. You can choose between disposable diapers and cloth diapers. Disposable diapers are more convenient, but cloth diapers are more environmentally friendly and cost-effective. It's a good idea to have a few large boxes of newborn-sized disposable diapers or 6-10 dozen cloth diapers and 6-8 diaper covers. Don't forget to also stock up on unscented baby wipes and diaper cream!

Clothing

When it comes to baby clothing, it's important to choose practical and comfortable options. Here's a list of clothing essentials for a newborn:

• 4-8 onesies: Look for ones with envelope folds at the shoulders and snaps at the crotch.
• 4-8 shirts: Kimono-style shirts with snaps or envelope folds at the shoulders are a good choice.
• 4-8 pants: Footies are a great option.
• 4-8 one-piece pajamas
• 1-3 rompers or other dress-up outfits
• 1-3 sweaters or jackets: Front-buttoned sweaters are a good choice.
• 4-7 socks or booties: Shoes are not necessary until the baby starts walking.
• 1-3 newborn hats: A broad-brimmed hat for summer and a soft cap that covers the ears for winter.
• No-scratch mittens (optional)
• Bunting bag or fleece suit for winter
• Lightweight and heavy stroller blankets

Crib or Bassinet

A safe sleeping space is crucial for a newborn. You can choose between a crib and a bassinet, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

A crib is a standard option that is stable and sturdy, with a longer lifespan than a bassinet. It can be rectangular or round and comes in various styles, shapes, and sizes. A mini crib is a good choice if you're looking for something more compact. A convertible crib can be transformed into a toddler bed or daybed as your baby grows.

On the other hand, a bassinet is specifically designed for babies from birth to about four months. It has a smaller sleeping space, is easier to move around, and is more convenient for room-sharing. Some bassinets even have wheels, making them highly portable. They often come with features like ruffled designs, hoods, and storage space. However, they are only used for a few months and may pose a tipping hazard due to their smaller size and high center of gravity.

Health Items

Taking care of a newborn's health and hygiene is crucial. Here are some essential health items for new moms:

• Baby nail clippers or file
• Petroleum jelly and sterile gauze (for circumcision care)
• Pacifiers (optional)
• Baby toothbrush (for when the baby's first teeth erupt)
• Saline spray and an electric snot sucker (optional)

Car Seat

An infant car seat is essential for safely transporting your newborn. Look for one that is comfortable, secure, and easy to install. Some car seats come with additional features like sun shades, mirrors, and storage pockets.

Self-care: healthy snacks, a comfortable pair of pants, a good water bottle and a supportive pillow

New moms have a lot on their plate, and it's important that they take care of themselves as well as their new baby. Here are some self-care essentials that all new moms need:

Healthy snacks

New moms are often too busy to prepare meals, so having some healthy snacks on hand is essential. Protein bars, yogurt, nuts, and fresh fruits are all great options that will give new moms the energy they need to get through the day.

A comfortable pair of pants

In the first few weeks after giving birth, new moms may not fit back into their pre-pregnancy clothes. Having a comfortable pair of pants that fit well and are easy to move around in is a must.

A good water bottle

Staying hydrated is important for everyone, but it's especially important for new moms, especially if they are breastfeeding. A good water bottle will help them stay hydrated throughout the day, and an insulated bottle will keep drinks hot or cold for hours.

A supportive pillow

A good nursing pillow is essential for new moms. It will provide support during breastfeeding sessions and can also be used for tummy time or supported sitting as the baby gets older. Look for a pillow that is machine washable, as spit-ups and messes are inevitable.

Feeding: breast pump, nursing pillow, bottles, formula and a slow cooker for batch cooking

Feeding a newborn can be a challenging task for new moms. Here are some essential items to make feeding easier:

Breast pump

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that babies be breastfed exclusively for about the first 6 months. However, breastfeeding may not be possible or preferable for all new moms due to various reasons, such as work commitments or health issues. In such cases, a breast pump can be a useful tool to express and store breast milk for later use.

When choosing a breast pump, consider factors such as ease of use, portability, and suction strength. There are manual and electric breast pumps available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. It is important to follow proper cleaning and sanitation guidelines to ensure the expressed milk is safe for the baby.

Nursing pillow

A nursing pillow is designed to curve around your waist, providing support for the baby at the right height for breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. It helps to lift the baby up, reducing the strain on your shoulders, back, and posture. When choosing a nursing pillow, consider factors such as size, price, ease of care, design, and extra features like pockets or wrap-around straps.

Bottles

If you plan to bottle-feed your baby, choosing the right bottles is essential. Look for bottles with a slow-flow nipple that mimics the natural flow of breast milk to help with the transition from breastfeeding to bottle-feeding. Consider the material of the bottle as well—glass bottles are easy to clean and dry but can be heavy and fragile, while plastic bottles are lightweight but may contain chemicals. Silicone bottles are another option, but they take longer to heat up.

Formula

When choosing a baby formula, it is important to consider the protein and carbohydrate ingredients, as these have the most significant impact on your baby's comfort during digestion. Standard formulas contain full-size proteins, which are the same size as they are in cow's milk or soybeans. Partially hydrolyzed formulas contain smaller protein pieces, making them easier for newborns to digest. Fully hydrolyzed formulas contain tiny protein pieces and are recommended for infants with cow's milk allergies or severe digestive issues.

Additionally, consider the carbohydrate source in the formula. Lactose is the carbohydrate found in breast milk, and most babies can digest it. However, formulas with reduced lactose may be more suitable for babies with immature digestive systems or those recovering from diarrhea. Alternative carbohydrates to look for include glucose sugars (such as corn syrup or brown rice syrup) and sucrose (table sugar).

Slow cooker for batch cooking

A slow cooker can be a new mom's best friend when it comes to preparing nutritious meals with minimal effort. It allows you to cook large batches of food that can be frozen and reheated, saving you time and energy in the kitchen. When choosing a slow cooker, consider the size, temperature settings, and additional features like a timer or automatic shut-off.

Baby-soothing: a bouncy seat, pacifier, swaddle blankets and a baby carrier

Baby-soothing: A bouncy seat, pacifier, swaddle blankets, and a baby carrier

As a new mom, you'll want to have a few tricks up your sleeve to soothe your baby when they're upset. Here are some essential items that can help with that:

Bouncy Seat

A bouncy seat can be a lifesaver when you need a moment to yourself but want to keep your baby entertained and soothed. Look for ones with soothing vibrations and a removable toy bar to keep your little one engaged. The "Ingenuity SmartBounce Automatic Baby Bouncer Seat" is a great option, as it has white noise, music, a toy bar, and plush infant toys. It's suitable for babies from 0 to 6 months old and can be purchased for $29.99.

Pacifier

Pacifiers are a classic way to soothe a fussy baby. They help satisfy your baby's sucking reflex and can be a great comfort object. Make sure to choose an appropriate size and style for your baby's age and development.

Swaddle Blankets

Swaddling is a technique that involves wrapping your baby snugly in a thin blanket to help them feel secure and calm. It can reduce the startle reflex and provide a cozy environment similar to the womb. The "Happiest Baby Sleepea" is an excellent choice, as it effectively keeps babies snug and secure with an interior Velcro panel, and it's safe, comfortable, and easy to use. It's made from organic cotton and spandex, with mesh panels for ventilation.

Baby Carrier

Carrying your baby in a comfortable carrier is a great way to soothe them while keeping your hands free. It provides the closeness and contact that babies crave and can help reduce crying and create a strong bond between you and your little one. The Ergobaby carrier is a good option, as it's comfortable for both you and your baby and can be used for several hours a day.

Remember, every baby is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. It's always a good idea to consult with your pediatrician if you have any concerns or questions about soothing your baby.

Frequently asked questions