Here are my essential baby items, tried and tested through my experience with two kids. I hope this list proves helpful in your new parenthood journey.
For your convenience, I've included links to the products I personally use, or alternatives if the original item is no longer available.
Breastmilk Pump: I have two pumps, the Spectra S1 Plus Hospital Grade and The Night Owl wearable handsfree pump. I use both equally and would vouch for both. I use the Spectra S1 Plus for night pumping, as I am not doing anything apart from pumping during that time. I use the Night Owl pump during the day since I'm always up and doing various tasks like changing diapers, folding clothes, or cleaning dishes.
Reusable Breast Pads: Sustainable and easy to wash. You need this if you are breastfeeding. I use it every day since the day my milk came, and I'm still using it now (baby is 5.5 months).
Button Bibs: I often forget to place Velcro bibs in a laundry bag, they end up sticking to my other clothes and causing damage to the fabric. A piece of advice for new parents: consider avoiding Velcro bibs and opt for button bibs if you tend to be forgetful like me with laundry! A simple trick to make laundry more manageable.
Breastfeeding Bra: BONDS and Kmart offer comfortable and durable options. I didn't think I needed anything fancier than these. I've relied on these throughout my breastfeeding journey.
Tripod/Mount for Baby Monitor: It offers flexibility, allowing me to relocate the monitor easily. For instance, when my baby was in the bassinet, I positioned the monitor in a different spot than when she moved to the cot. As she transitions to a bed in the future, the baby monitor's position will once again adapt accordingly.
Playmat: A playmat is useful for tummy time, as the baby learns to crawl, and eventually serves as a safe play area for the baby/toddler. I choose a neutral-colored playmat to seamlessly blend with my home's aesthetic.
Dummy Holder: I own several of these, not because my baby uses a dummy, but I use them to secure toys, washcloths, or spoons, preventing them from falling on the ground, particularly when I am out and about. Being a bit of a clean freak, I find this incredibly handy—an absolute must-have!
Baby Comforter/Snuggle toy: I adore having a reliable comforter. With my two babies, I've incorporated a baby comforter into their sleep and nap routines from 3 months onwards. I maintain three identical comforters, ensuring I always have one available while the others are in the wash. During caravan trips or travels abroad, I bring these comforters along. In unfamiliar surroundings, the comforter provides a sense of comfort and security, allowing them to sleep soundly.
Baby Moisturiser: Many infants experience various skin sensitivities such as baby acne in the initial weeks, eczema, heat rash, and more. Both of my children encountered these skin issues, underscoring the importance of having a reliable baby moisturiser at home. Regular moisturisation helps minimise flare-ups. For my first baby, I opted for QV baby moisturising cream, while for my second, I turned to Cetaphil baby daily lotion.
Baby High Chair: You will need this eventually. I started putting my baby on the high chair when she was 5 months old. I wasn't ready to feed solids yet but was just practicing for her to build neck strength and prepare for solids. I use the BabyBjorn high chair for both my babies, and I love it! It's easy to clean, unlike some fabric ones (which have their pros too, i.e., more comfortable). I also appreciate its minimalistic design, and it's easily detachable if you need to bring it to another place, like grandparents' or friends' houses for dinners, etc. I used this high chair until my first child was around 2.5 years old and am now using it for my 5.5-month-old.
Haakaa Pump: I used this a lot more for my first baby because I had little milk, so I wanted to savor as much milk as I could. I would only recommend it if you struggle with slow supply when breastfeeding. Otherwise, don't worry about it. I have more milk with my second baby, so I didn't use this item much in the end.
Breastfeeding Chair: If you're mainly breastfeeding, I highly recommend a good breastfeeding chair. I have one that rocks and comes with an ottoman. I use it every time I breastfeed my baby, and it is the best! I tried using a breastfeeding pillow, but I didn't find it helpful. If you're expressing milk or feeding formula, the chair is not needed.
Baby Nail Trimmer: I learned the hard way. Initially, I used a baby nail clipper, a smaller version of the adult tool, when my baby was just a few weeks old. Despite being careful, I accidentally clipped her skin, and it was heart-wrenching to see her tiny finger bleeding. Around that time, a mum in my local mother’s group recommended a baby nail trimming product, and I swiftly purchased it. It’s fantastic! The sandpaper inserts, although seeming harsh, are actually gentle and safe on the baby’s skin while effectively trimming their nails.
Steriliser: Opt for one that both sterilises and dries, saving you valuable time, which becomes scarce with a newborn. I have a UV stereliser with dry function. At first, I was skeptical about the efficiency of UV sterilisation. But after thorough research, I discovered its legitimacy in ensuring bottle sterilisation. If you’re as cautious as I was, I’d recommend doing some homework before purchasing this product. Its standout feature is the impeccable dry function. Just load the items needing sterilisation, turn on, and they’re ready to use again in no time.
Digital Forehead Thermometer: This is very important to have because the baby may fall sick and could be exposed to germs and viruses, especially when they start going to childcare. I have the digital one, and it's a lot easier to use compared to an analog thermometer.
Baby Panadol: I use this each time after baby have her needles/immunisation. It helps her cope with the pain which leads to more settled baby.
This list covers some of my must-have items, and I'll be adding more in future articles.
Check back regularly for updates on my parenting essentials.
Xx, Happy parenting!
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