Congratulations, mama-to-be! You’re expecting a beautiful bundle of joy, and as you wait to welcome them into the world, you’re preparing your heart and home for everything they might possibly need.
When baby arrives, it’s essential that you’re prepped and ready for them, and a major part of this involves having all the essentials on hand already – no new mom wants to be rushing to the store for random items that they need in a hurry!
To help you along, here are nine essential items that you can purchase ahead of time to have ready and waiting when the big day arrives.
A Cozy Bassinet
In the first weeks of your baby’s life, having them right next to you while you sleep will make everything easier. You’ll be more at ease knowing they’re snug and safe next to you, and you’ll have easy access to them when you need to wake up for feeds, changes, and other needs they might have throughout the night.
For this, having a cozy bassinet next to your bed is the best possible solution. Smaller than a full-sized cot, a bassinet will fit comfortably next to your bed without getting in the way but will provide enough room and comfort for baby to sleep soundly, just within arm’s reach.
Onesies and Sleepers
Your baby will live in onesies and sleepers in the first few months of their life, so you’ll want to make sure you’re stocked up! Choose outfits that are comfortable for baby and easy for parents to fasten up (press studs and zippers are your best bet).
You’ll also want to make sure your baby’s clothes are warm enough so they don’t catch a chill, but if your tot was born in the summertime, make sure you invest in a breathable baby sleeper, too, for those extra hot nights.
Swaddling Blankets
Moms across the world and of every culture and era have sworn on swaddling as a great technique for soothing an unhappy newborn. Of course, you’ll need a few swaddling blankets in order to test it out.
Invest in a few soft and breathable swaddling blankets that will keep your little one tightly snug without making them feel trapped. Swaddling your baby like a little burrito can help them to feel safe and secure, helping them to sleep better because they mimic the compact coziness of the womb. Not only will they sleep better, but so will you.
Diapers and Wipes
This one is pretty self-explanatory, but many new moms don’t realize just how many diapers and wipes they’re going to need when baby arrives. You’ll want to make sure that whatever wipes you buy are gentle and fragrance-free for your little one’s delicate skin, and ensure that you always have a stack of diapers on hand.
That being said, it’s not the best idea to stockpile a hoard of one brand of any particular item, especially before your baby has arrived. You might find that once they’re out in the world, you don’t actually like the diapers you bought hundreds of, or their skin might react poorly to that brand of wipes you got. Have a few different options available, and only stock up big when you know what works.
Feeding Supplies
Whether you’re planning on breastfeeding or using formula, you’re going to need some supplies to help you get through it.
If you’re choosing to nurse, you’ll want to invest in a high-quality breast pump and sterilizing equipment too. These will come in handy for those moments when you need to express, but your little one is asleep or simply not interested in feeding – yes, it will happen.
If you’re going to bottle feed, have a good stock of bottles, bottle nipples, and a reliable brand of formula on hand. When it comes to formula, follow the same advice as with the wipes, and don’t buy too much of something until you’re certain your baby has approved your purchase!
Baby Wrap
The first few days of motherhood will be spent behind closed doors – as it should be! But as you and your little one get ready to venture out into the world once more, you’ll want a variety of ways to keep them close and move them around; a pram isn’t always practical.
A baby wrap or carrier is a convenient way to keep your baby close and comfy, hands-free! You can use these when out shopping or running other errands, or just around the house. Even Dad can use a baby wrap – so look for one that you’ll both be able to wear or grab one for each parent.
Diaper Bag
Just because you’re a new mom doesn’t mean that your sense of style has gone out the window. Every mother deserves to carry around a stylish-looking diaper bag that doesn’t clash with every outfit in their wardrobe.
Look for a bag that is not only stylish but spacious and well-organized, with enough compartments to keep everything you and your baby might need easily accessible.
Baby Monitor
As a new mom, you’ll want to have eyes on your little one at all times; it’s only natural to have this instinct! However, life goes on, and we all have things to do, which means we can’t watch over every minute of our little one’s naps – this is where baby monitors come in.
A reliable monitor will give you peace of mind to go about your daily tasks while you monitor your baby’s safety and comfort from a distance. Nowadays, baby monitors are super “smart” and usually linked to an app on your phone to make everything easy as pie.
Nursing Pillow
Believe it or not, a nursing pillow is one of the best breastfeeding hacks you’ll ever come across. These pillows provide essential support and the next level of comfort for you and your bub. They help guide you into the proper position for feeding so that both you and baby are comfortable and satisfied.
Make sure to look for a pillow with a comfortable and easily washable cover so that maintenance is a breeze.
