Have the realities of the “fourth trimester” got you down? If nursing your newborn is literally a pain, Frida Mom has you covered with a line of new breast-friendly products!
Frida Mom launched in 2019, with a collection products to help women during the postpartum period. With the brand’s newest line, Breast Care, Frida Mom is about to become your “breast friend.”
Photo courtesy of Frida Mom
The brand’s CEO, and mom of three, Chelsea Hirschhorn wanted to help other women demystify breastfeeding comfort. Instead of the hacks you can find on random websites or YouTube tutorials, Frida Mom’s line can help to ease discomfort without kooky or convoluted so-called hacks.
You’ll find everything you need to nurse without pain, stay healthy, and make milk in Frida Mom’s collection. The line’s highlights include an Adjustable Nursing Pillow, 2-in-1 Lactation Massager, Instant Heat Breast Warmer, Breast Masks for Lactation, Engorgement and Hydration, Postpartum Gummies for Lactation, and a Breast Care Self Care Kit.
Find Frida Mom’s new postpartum Breast Care products, along with other must-haves for the new mom, at Target, Amazon, or FridaMom.com.
DockATot is not just about making world-famous baby docks anymore. The company is branching off into accessories and product that make parents lives easier––and more stylish.
You can now shop a handful of game changing products that include on-the-go totes and clutches, in addition to the most gorgeous nursing pillows we’ve ever seen. Keep scrolling to see the newest goodies DockATot has to offer.
DockATot Clutch Changer
The DockATot Clutch Changer ($50-$60) is that all-in-one portable changing clutch you need so you won't have to carry anythingn else. Coming in two options, the Luxe and the Signature, each one is designed to be water resistant, can be wiped clean, has a removable changing pad, stay-wet wipes pouch, zippered exterior pocket, open interior pocket for diapers, two zippered interior pockets and is BPA free!
DockATot Getaway Totes
It's time to hit the road with DockATot's Getaway Totes ($90-$130). Available in "Luxe" (camo) and "Sport" (blue), the oversized totes are water resistant, have a large zippered interior pocket, three open interior pockets made of durable mesh, perfectly sized for the Clutch Changer, two detachable zippered pouches, removable cross-body strap with shoulder cushion, exterior luggage strap and a coordinating luggage tag.
DockATot's La Maman Wedge (Nursing Pillow)
DockATot's nursing pillows ($90) are probably the prettiest in the pack. Doubling as a stylish cushion, it comes in four patterns: "Strawberry Thief" (Morris & Co. print), "Navy Night Falls," "Bronzed Cheetah" and "Carrara Marble." Each one is made from an easy clean velvet and has a concealed zipper
Baby shower registries aren’t limited to big box stores these days. In fact, there are many websites where you can register for anything that’s on the internet. So what are the most useful and appreciated baby gifts that you could and should register for? We’ve done our research and come up with 19 ideas that you will actually use and appreciate having after your baby’s arrival.
1. Pregnancy pillow. It’s one of those items you may have felt frivolous buying for yourself, but trust us, it’s worth every extra hour of sleep you’ll recieve.
2. Gift certificates for a local baby store. Sometimes doing the shopping yourself is the fun part: browsing through a store and marveling at the teeny tiny booties, adorable newborn outfits, and sweet nursery accents.
3. House cleaning service (before or after baby comes). Not only will you suddenly feel the need for a pristine house with a newborn around, but also, you’ll be sleep-deprived and short on time.
4. Contribution to a doula service. If you are dreaming of a doula birth, but can’t afford it, this is one way to get the birth you really want.
5. Hiring a photographer for baby pictures. This is a gift you’ll cherish forever.
6. Personalized new mom note cards. When you meet the first nice mom at mom and baby yoga, you’ll thank us for making it easy to keep in touch. Swapping numbers in your phones isn’t always so easy when you’re running off with a hungry newborn.
7. Paying for someone to give a CPR and infant first aid class. You’ll rest easier knowing you have these skills just in case.
8. Prenatal or postnatal massage. Feel free to be specific about the spa and/or masseuse you prefer as well. You deserve it.
9. Gift certificate for a pedicure. Your feet could use the extra massage right now, and you can’t see your own toes for a DIY pedicure anyway.
10. Date night certificate. Feel like you’ll never leave the house after baby? If you’ve got a free dinner for two and babysitting in the books before she arrives, you’ll have extra motivation.
11. Shower saver kit. This tongue-in-cheek gift gives a nod to the fact that finding time for a shower after baby isn’t always easy, but this clever gift grouping will make it doable: a clear plastic shower curtain, bath accessories for mom, and a bouncy seat for baby.
12. Cloth diaper service or a supply of disposable diapers. If there’s one thing you know your baby will use, it’s diapers!
13. Emergency diaper kit to leave in the car. This clever and ever-useful wet bag should include diapers, wipes, plastic baggies, and a clean change of clothes.
14. Meals for a month. Organize a meal train of family and friends to provide simple dinners several days a week for a month.
16. Favorite children’s books. Start building your baby’s library from day one. Books will be treasured forever.
17. Uh-oh kit. Here’s an easy way to ensure you’re stocked with the necessary first aid supplies including a thermometer, gas tablets, teething tablets, baby pain reliever, nail clippers, diaper rash cream, etc.
18. Handmade hats or blankets. If you’ve got relatives or friends that knit, hint that handmade is appreciated.
19. Nursing pillow. If you overlooked this on your registry—don’t. Not only is it good for breastfeeding, bottle-feeding moms find comfort in it as well, and these pillows can be a great spot to prop your baby.
I’d like to start off by saying this isn’t a political post – despite your stance on COVID-19, I think we can all agree that it’s been rough on us all.
I had a baby during the peak of COVID-19 lockdowns and let me tell you; it was wild. I was having appointments in my car, we didn’t know if my husband would be able to attend the birth, and we watched supermarkets be drained of basic baby necessities like diapers, wipes, and formula. This was my second pregnancy, and I was terrified to give birth like many mothers are but then also faced with the uncertainty of the world and how I would provide for this new life.
With my first baby, Cash, I tried to breastfeed but didn’t last more than 3 months. My nipples hurt, I was exhausted, and I had no idea what I was doing. At that level of exhaustion, formula sounded like a much better option. Fast forward to the pandemic and seeing the pandemonium of baby formula being unavailable to new mamas – I knew from that moment on, I was going to breastfeed if it was the only thing I did. There was no guarantee that formula would be an option this time around.
When Oliver finally arrived, he was a bundle of pure happiness. We waited to know the gender till his due date and although I swore he was a girl, my husband and I were in complete shock to hear the nurse proclaim, “it’s a boy!” Oliver came into this world on April 26 via planned C-Section; thanks to placenta previa.
Soon after the serotonin high of meeting our little man wore off, on came the same breastfeeding woes from my first – the cracked nipples, pain, exhaustion, cluster feeding, and night feeds. However, this time was different; my mind was right. I’m a very head-strong woman and when I put my mind to something, I don’t waiver. My poor husband would confirm this. Although secretly I know he loves how determined and strong-willed I am (haha). I kept breastfeeding to be certain that Oliver would be fed no matter what and he wouldn’t get sick. I would be his safe place amidst the pandemic. Turns out, it was the best thing I ever did. Pushing through the tough 3-month mark was exactly what needed to happen. From past experience, I never thought I would like breastfeeding as much as I do now but let me tell you, it’s pure joy. The bond Ollie and I have is special. We get uninterrupted time together where we just cuddle, and *sometimes* sit in silence. I look down into his eyes and see such a pure soul. I’m watching him grow, knowing that I am responsible for that. I know that no matter what happens, he will be fed. Truthfully, I’m a bit sad knowing it’s going to end soon.
Breastfeeding is hard. They say it’s a natural thing and I understand that. However, I don’t know about you, but no one ever taught me how to breastfeed. It didn’t come natural to me and in my exhausted state of mind, I had no idea what advice to take.
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Elvie Pump
Elvie Pump, The best hands-free pump I used to chase around my first child, work from home, and build up a freezer stash.
If you’re planning your baby registry or stocking up before the big day, focus your to-buy list on these essentials that will get you through those first weeks. High chairs, toys and even the crib can wait. This is what you’ll really need when baby arrives.
Diaper Changing Pad
Skip Hop
A changing table is handy if you have the room, but for outings and travel, a portable diaper changing pad is all you'll need. And as your child gets older, you may prefer the simplicity of changing them on the floor, couch or bed. This one, from Skip Hop, has a wipe-clean, zip-off changing pad and roomy pockets for diapers, wipes, bum cream and hand sanitizer. It also features a zippered front pocket for your phone, keys and wallet. Best of all, it folds up into a sleek clutch you can wear on your wrist, clip to your stroller or toss in a diaper bag.
We love: the Pronto Signature Changing Station, available at skiphop.com.
Infant Hat
MORI
Hats on babies are not only adorable, they're necessary in certain conditions. A hat will keep baby warm and comfortable in cooler temps and block the sun from their sensitive scalp. As a general rule, put a hat on your baby if you feel the weather is cold. And if your baby looks or feels flushed or appears uncomfortable while wearing a hat, take it off.
Keep track of baby's feeding, sleep and diaper schedule, as well as developmental milestones, immunizations and illnesses, with one of the many awesome apps out there. You'll be able to pick up patterns to help you establish a baby routine that maximizes comfort (yours and baby's), and you can more easily answer any of your pediatrician's questions.
You can start reading to babies the day they're born, and you should! Babies love your voice and find it soothing, and bonding with your babe over a book is a great way for you to get some relaxation amid the stressful, sleepless early days of motherhood. Studies show that regularly reading to your baby builds language comprehension and reading skills too. So visit your library for board books; stock your shelves with classics; or sign up for Literati's baby book club and have age-appropriate books sent to your door.
Tiny babies can make big messes. And when you're a new mom, you want your cleaning products to be safe and toxin-free, but you also want them to be super effective. Truce cleaning products have you covered. We especially love the peppermint-scented all-purpose cleaner, which cuts grease, leaves a streak-free finish and contains only five ingredients (water, isopropyl alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, organic castile soap and essential oils).
We love: Truce cleaning products, available at truceclean.com.
Diapers
Abby & Finn
A stockpile of diapers and wipes is essential for any new parent. Take the guesswork out of when to reorderwith a diaper subscription service that brings the goods to you. Perks of ABBY&FINN include a convenient "set it and forget it" approach, mix and match with multiple sizes and designs in the same box, and the ability to select from a range of frequencies. All of their diapers are eco-friendly and toxin-free, and are comparable in price to Pampers subscribe and save.
Wraps are a helpful carrier option in the early months as the fabric keeps babies close and is soft on their skin. Some look tricky to fasten, but if you ask a sales associate or watch a YouTube video, you'll catch on quicker than you think. You can also pick a style (like this one) that makes it as easy as putting on a t-shirt.
We Love: Baby K'tan PRINT baby carrier, available at babyktan.com, $60.
Swaddle Blankets
aden anais
Loose blankets are a safety hazard for the first year of baby's life, but swaddling blankets are a life-saver. Wrap baby like a burrito to keep restless arms and legs from jolting them awake. These are also great as stroller covers, nursing covers, park blankets, and more.
Top priority: the car seat. You'll need one installed in your car before you leave the hospital with your newborn, so this is one purchase that can't wait. Look for one with a high safety rating. If you plan to buy a stroller from a different brand, check that there's an adaptor for your brand of car seat.
Diaper changes can leave sensitive baby bums irritated, and rashes from wet diapers, certain soaps or baby wipes, or even food intolerances are common. Keep a diaper cream like Triple Paste (a mom favorite!) at the ready to smooth on at the first signs of redness, and you can stop discomfort in its tracks. This ointment is fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and thick to create a protective barrier on baby's skin. Buy a set of smaller tubes so you can keep one in your diaper bag, another at your changing station and a third at the grandparents' house.
We love: Triple Paste, available at amazon.com, $30 for a 3-pack of 2 oz. tubes.
Bassinet
Chicco
With multiple nightly wakeup calls, you'll want to keep baby within reach. A bassinet by your bedside keeps baby close enough for you to soothe them quickly, and to peer over to watch them sleep.
Give your arms a rest during breastfeeding or bottle-feeding with a fit-to-your-body pillow. In later months, baby can use it to practice tummy time and sitting up.
Your newborn doesn't need a fancy wardrobe at first, as newborns spend most of their time sleeping or snuggling at home. An arsenal of onesies makes dressing your baby quick and easy, and soft cotton in solid colors will match your other baby clothes.
We Love: Primary Organic Babysuit 5-Pack, available at primary.com, $45.
Infant Tub
Boon
A tub that's designed for newborns makes bathing baby easier in those early months. Choose one that converts to a toddler tub to get maximum use out of it.
We Love: Boon Naked 2-Position Collapsible Baby Bathtub, available at amazon.com, $70.
Bibs
Bumkins
Bibs aren't just for babies who eat solids. They're handy for bottle-feeding and catching spit-up and drool. Buy them in bulk. You'll be swapping and washing them often!
We Love: Bumkins Super, available at target.com, $13.
Diaper Bag
7 a.m. Enfant
Getting out of the house with your baby is a must in the first weeks, not just for your sanity, but also for the little one's doctor's appointments. Arm yourself will a well-organized diaper bag so you're prepared with everything from a fresh onesie to a burp cloth and warm blanket.
We Love: 7 a.m. Enfant Soho Diaper Bag, available at 7amenfant.com, $85.
Baby Monitor
Nanit
Video is key for checking in on your baby without disturbing them. Some monitors, like this one, work with an app so you can monitor from your phone when you're away from home. Even grandparents can tune in to watch baby sleep.
We Love: Nanit Pro Camera, available at nanit.com, $299+.
Slow-Flow Baby Bottles
LUX
Whether you're feeding your baby formula or pumped milk, look for bottles that mimic the shape of the breast and slow down the flow of liquid to reduce colic, spitting up, burping and gas.
Middle-of-the-night feedings and diaper changes go a lot smoother with a soft light that doesn't wake up baby or your partner. Better yet, choose an illuminated gadget that doubles as a sound machine. The repetitive sounds of white (static) or pink (rainfall) noise can help soothe your newborn throughout the night.
Swaddling from scratch isn't for every parent (especially in the middle of the night), and some infants can wiggle out of a swaddle blanket like a mini Houdini. These sacks make it easy on both of you with simple zippers and Velcro. Baby will feel snug, and you'll feel like a superstar swaddler!
We Love: HALO SleepSack Swaddle, available at halosleep.com, $25.
Natural Pacifier
Natursutten
When your baby is crying and you've tried everything from shushing and milk or formula to a diaper change, a pacifier gives baby some comfort. Sticking to orthodontic designs may protect your baby's future teeth, and a one-piece design isn't only safer but also easier to clean.
We Love: Natursutten Orthodontic Rubber Pacifier, available at amazon.com, $12.
Tummy time is an essential component for babies to promote sensory, visual, and motor development. You can begin doing tummy time with your baby as soon as you leave the hospital. For a newborn, start small with a few minutes of tummy time a day. By three months, try having your baby doing tummy time for a total of one hour. Don’t worry, that hour can be broken up into small sessions throughout the day.
For some babies, tummy time is not their favorite activity. Your baby may cry while on his/her tummy—it’s completely normal. Your baby just feels uncomfortable trying something new. If your baby seems distressed try tummy time at another time during the day. Preferably after a good nap and a full belly!
The Benefits Of Tummy Time
Your baby should continue tummy time until he/she begins to crawl sometime between 7 to 9 months of age. By placing your baby on his/her stomach, it will build the necessary muscles to begin crawling.
Tummy time benefits your baby in the following ways:
Helps build neck, back, and core muscles
Builds muscles to help a baby reach milestones like rolling, sitting, crawling, and eventually walking
Baby develops his/her tactile sense (sense of touch) during tummy time
Increases body awareness as baby shifts and adjusts his/her position during tummy time
Helps develop baby’s sense of balance and movement when he/she is placed into different positions
Develops hand and eye coordination
5 Tummy Time Activities To Try
1. Face-to-Face: This activity thrives on closeness with your baby. Start by laying down on a couch with your upper body slightly inclined, then place the baby on his/her tummy against your chest. Baby will lift and turn his/her head to see you. You can encourage your baby to lift his/her head by making kissing sounds or singing a song.
At first, your baby will only be able to lift his/her head for a couple of seconds. But over time, the length of time will increase as muscles are being built. Remember, practice makes perfect! This tummy time activity can be modified in difficulty when you see your baby doing well at a slight incline.
Simply, lay yourself flat on the floor and place your baby on your chest tummy down. This is a much difficult position for your baby. Always remember to keep a hand on your baby to prevent him/her from rolling!
2. Water Play: Place your baby’s upper body tummy side down on a nursing pillow or boppy. Take a baking or sheet pan (with edges) and put lukewarm water in it. Don’t worry you don’t need it too deep. Just add enough water to keep your baby entertained. Then add ball pit balls or small rubber duckies. I’ve found ball pit balls work the best for this activity because they are extremely light and will float. This activity will help keep the baby calm during tummy time, plus increase your baby’s sense of touch and vision.
3. Sensory Bags: Sensory bags are amazing for tummy time because they lay flat. To make a sensory bag for tummy time, take a gallon size Ziplock bag, and try some of the following combinations:
Clear hair gel with large buttons
A piece of white craft paper with 5 to 6 drops of paint. This allows your baby to mix colors without the mess!
4. Reading Time: Tummy time is the perfect time to read to your baby. Instead of reading to your baby sitting up, place your baby tummy down on a nursing pillow, and lay in front of your baby. This will help your baby turn and leave his/her head to see what story you are reading.
5. Black and White Books: Because babies do not fully see an array of colors until 4 to 6 months, contrasting colors like black and white are attention-grabbing for a baby during tummy time. You can make your own black and white images or purchase a baby book made up of black and white images. These are simple images of everyday objects like apples and boats. Many contrasting color books are designed to be folded out so every page is visible to your baby. You can either place the black and white images on the floor face up or place the images or book standing up. This will help your baby strengthen his/her neck and back by lifting the neck to focus on the images.
Don’t forget to have fun with tummy time! When babies first start tummy time, it can be uncomfortable for them because they lack the neck and back strength to keep their heads up. But with more practice, a baby will gain the strength to keep their head up longer to meet essential milestones. Thankfully, tummy time doesn’t have to be a struggle for your baby. It can be fun when adding in these entertaining tummy time activities into your baby’s everyday life!
Liz Talton is writing for the Speech Blubs blog. Her son received an autism evaluation, so she decided to start advocating. She is a creator of Pitter Patter of Baby Feet, a website dedicated to anything related to motherhood. She received a master’s degree in forensic psychology and mental health.
Celeb mama Blake Lively recently welcomed her third baby with hubby Ryan Reynolds. Now that the actress is a pro at the whole mommy-ing thing, she’s teaming up with Amazon Baby Registry to share her faves in a curated guide.
Lively said, in a press release, “I understand how overwhelming it is to be a new parent. What they don’t tell you is it never gets less overwhelming, but with each kid, I do learn more. Before I had my first, I was lucky enough to have the parents in my life who I trusted most share their “must-haves” with me. I hope to do the same for you with my baby registry picks. Good luck! You’re gonna’ need it.”
With categories such as diapering basics and sustainable on-the-go essentials, you’ll love absolutely everything on this must have guide!
Find everything you'll need in Lively's nursery registry. Check out the Halo Bassinest Swivel Sleeper ($279). This pick rotates and swivels 360 degrees, includes a nightlight, has three soothing sound and a back to bed reminder.
Lively's choices for on-the-go mamas include the Baby Jogger Mini Double Stroller ($449). Even though this choice has a higher price tag, it seats two and has plenty of storage space.
Diapering Basics
Amazon
Lively's picks include everything you'll need for diaper duty—from diapers to a place to put them (when your baby is done with them, of course). Along with other essentials the actress also added Burt's Bees 100% Natural Multipurpose Ointment ($8.99).
—Erica Loop
Featured photo: Courtesy of Amazon Baby Registry/Guy Aroch
It’s happened to many of us—our friend, our siste, or neighbor have their first (or second) baby and after waiting a few days or weeks until we are welcomed to visit the little baby, we wonder what we can bring that is appropriate for a new mom and/or baby.
First of all, let’s put all the focus on mom. Baby is obviously super important, but that goes without saying. Honestly, baby doesn’t know which way is up, what is light or dark, really anything other than knowing whether or not a nipple is in her mouth at this point, so baby will be ok if your focus at your visit is mostly on Mom.
Mom may be doing just hunky dory or she may be falling apart. She may want to talk about this, she may not. She may look like a hot mess when she opens the door (and that’s ok!) and the house may be a disaster zone. Either way, focus on mom. Take off your shoes, wash your hands, and ideally bring something that will make her smile. Flowers are nice, and a casserole will be appreciated, but let’s raise the bar a little.
And don’t overstay your welcome. Depending on how close you are to said mom, you can offer to hold the baby while she showers or naps, or offer to cook a meal or do the dishes, and this is different for every situation.
If you are super close to the new mom, here are a few ideas for what to bring:
Champagne, or her favorite wine. Yes, everyone has an opinion for whether or not moms “should” have a drink while breastfeeding. If you need some stats on that, you can visit Kelly Mom for some great advice. If you know that your friend would smile when you walk in the door holding her favorite bottle of bubbly, then do it. Let her decide what is best for her. Bring the orange juice too.
Soothies Gel Pads for nursing moms. This is more of a mom (who’s been there) to mom type of gift. It would be really cute in a gift bag with a tried and true nursing bra or lactation tea. These little gel pads were a life-saver for me and I didn’t even know I needed them until someone special sent them to me.
A nursing pillow or something snuggly. You know your friend. Might she need a nursing pillow? A soft robe? Slippers? Something cuddly means comfort. And we want to comfort a new mom.
A funny movie or book you are confident she will enjoy. Something you two have talked about, a old movie from when you were kids, or an enjoyable parenting book that you cherished as a new mom. Try to avoid anything TOO tearjerky, she can do that on her own right now.
Something to babywear. This is best if you are a lover of babywearing and have a recommendation for her. This concept can seem foreign to new moms, but will actually SAVE their lives if they know how to do it properly (I did NOT know about the benefits of a wrap as a new mom until someone recommended one to me, a wrap with a new baby is different than a carrier you would use out and about with a bigger infant or toddler). You being able to show her how to you use it is going to make all the difference. And when she gets through the 4:00-7:00pm hour with 50% less cries that night, she will thank you.
If you’re maybe not THAT close to mom but still, want to bring something special…
A healthy meal. In the spring and summer, bring a fresh salad with a lot of vegetables to nourish mom as she heals and makes milk for baby. In the fall and winter, a warming, vegetable based soup. Bonus for homemade. Try not to focus on anything overloaded in dairy, onions, garlic, broccoli, or any super spicy foods. Baby will not appreciate it.
Rosewater mist. Keeping in mind that food should be healthy, and anything mom and baby are exposed to should be NONTOXIC. Something with a lot of fragrance or chemicals is a big no no for nursing moms and babies. This will be so cooling and refreshing for her (when she doesn’t get to shower as often as she wants and is more exhausted than ever).
Body butter, body lotion, or a scrub that she can enjoy that is just for her, not for baby. Time alone and time reminding her that she is still a woman with her own body is going to be a little harder now, and this will give her something to treat herself to when she does get that opportunity (to shower). Remember, less fragrance and chemicals is key, check out Beautycounter for safe products for both mom and baby.
Something for baby. A thoughtful outfit or toy that shows you are welcoming baby into the world. Although this is mostly about what to bring mom, something for baby is sweet too. Pretty bibs, burpy cloths, soft blankets and onesies are lovely for newborns (and you can’t really have enough).
A journal. A mom’s mind is on overload of gratitude, panic, love, emotions and fear. Remembering these early days (that will quickly become a blur) will someday be cherished and journaling is a wonderful way for her to document this time. Writing out her thoughts and feelings can also help with any baby blues or emotions she is struggling with.
Personally, I went through a very mature “I can do it all by myself” phase shortly before crumbling into an “I can’t do anything” phase as a new mom, so you never know what you are going to get. That being said, be prepared for Mom to reschedule or cancel at the last minute and LET IT BE. She still loves you, and you can see her again soon. She wins this one, no matter what it is.
Nicole L. Schmitz, helps others to improve their energy, digestion, sleep, nutrition, weight, and health conditions with simplified, cleaner eating, and better self-care. She is a mother, aspiring yogi, writer, and artist, loves living by the beach, and inspiring others to make clear and confident healthy lifestyle choices every day.
Bringing your premature baby home from the hospital is an exciting milestone. To help both of you adjust to life at home, we’ve rounded up the products you’ll need for your preemie, from baby gear to bottles and much more. Congratulations to your NICU graduate!
Talk to your pediatrician and the NICU staff for specific recommendations for your baby. Then read on for products designed with preemies in mind.
Preemie Basics
Keep germs away from your sensitive babe by stocking up on hand sanitizer, antibacterial soap and face masks for your family and visitors.
You’ll also need a baby thermometer and preemie-size diapers. Brands including Pampers, Huggies, Seventh Generation and Earth’s Best make disposable diapers in preemie sizes. If you’re using cloth diapers, check out the Green Mountain Diapers website for preemie options and recommendations on what you’ll need.
When purchasing a car seat, look for seats that accommodate newborns starting at 4 pounds, such as the Chicco Keyfit. Add a mirror to the backseat positioned at the car seat so you can monitor your child while you’re driving.
Place a tag on your car seat and stroller letting people know they should keep their distance for your baby’s health. We love the Tags4Tots tags from Three Little Tots (shown above). They come in a variety of colors, styles and phrases to get your point across clearly. The company also sells car seat covers and pacifier clips with friendly reminders not to touch baby. If your child needs medications, Three Little Tots also sells a handy medicine chart that attaches to your fridge to help you remember dosages and when to give them.
Baby wraps are a must for baby’s comfort (and to help you get things done). If you have a baby store in your area, visit one to try out the wraps to see which suits your body and your baby best. Check out wraps from Solly Baby, Baby K’Tan and MOBY, all of which preemie moms recommend. A store clerk can also help you get past the learning curve of tying a wrap—if you’re still stuck, head to YouTube for instructional videos on the wrap you choose.
If you’re looking for an infant seat, the Mamaroo with an infant insert is a great bet. The Mamaroo sways side to side and gently bounces up and down to mimic parents’ comforting movements and comfort little ones. It’s used in many hospital NICU units to soothe premature babies.
Whether you’re breastfeeding, bottle-feeding or both, preemie babies have special needs when it comes to nourishment. Look for bottles with preemie nipples (some brands to check out include Dr. Brown’s (shown above), Comotomo, Munchkin Latch and nanobebe).
Finally, the Hatch Baby Grow changing pad features a built-in scale to help you track baby’s weight gain, feeding amount and diaper changes for added peace of mind.
There are monitors that track sound, movement, room temperature and much more. Consider your home’s configuration and talk to your pediatrician about specific features you should look for. Choose a monitor that addresses baby’s needs and your top concerns for baby’s sleep safety so you can both rest soundly.
In terms of sleepers, choose swaddle blankets or a sleepsack that’s safe for preemies, such as the HALO SleepSack. If your child is coming home with tubes still attached, look for sleepers with snaps rather than zippers.
Pacifiers also come in preemie size from companies including Philips and RaZbaby.
Bathing
The Puj tub cradles kids who are too small for other baby tubs and is made of a soft foam that conforms to standard-size sinks. When bathing baby, choose natural baby soaps and lotions that are more gentle on sensitive skin.
Pro tip from preemie moms: Choose kimono tops that open and wrap around baby, rather than a traditional top that you have to put baby’s head through.
Parent Self-Care
Treat yourself to a high-quality hand cream (you’ll need it with all the hand-washing), and buy or make a keepsake box to hold your NICU items. Get a non-toxic, washable ink pad to help you remember just how small those hands and feet really were, and fill out a memory book to document the amazing journey you’re on.
Mother’s Day is just around the corner and while some have already picked out that perfect present, others may still be wondering what to give the new mom in their lives. As a new mom, here is some inspiration on the gifts we would actually like to receive! There are some especially thoughtful gifts for those who are nursing that can add some convenience in her breastfeeding journey, inspire some much-needed me-time, and more importantly, let her know you care! Check out these top picks for mom:
New Mother Must Haves
1. My Brest Friend Deluxe Nursing Pillow – A super comfortable and affordable pillow that makes mom and baby’s life easier during feeding time.
2. Haakaa Silicone Breast Pump – This handy device collects milk from the other breast while nursing so that no milk supply goes to waste. It also saves enough to keep a freezer stash without even trying!
3. Nursing tops – A stylish, comfortable camisole will make all the difference in her wardrobe! Loyal Hana and The GAP creates some of Rachael’s favorites.
4. Backpacks – One with preferably many compartments would be perfect for traveling or working mothers, allowing her to store and transport any necessary pumping supplies.
5. Vitamin D drops – This thoughtful, multipurpose item is available almost everywhere! She can apply to nipples after nursing to promote healing, or to her face and skin for a natural glow.
Our Beauty Picks
1. Fresh Beauty Black Tea collection – These products make the perfect luxurious gift for a new mother who should be indulging in more self-care. We love the Instant Perfecting Mask for moisturizing and firming the skin!
2. Drunk Elephant – This brand prides itself on creating non-toxic skincare, which is ideal for breastfeeding women. With the exception of the Tlc Sukari Babyfacial product (contains salicylic acids), Drunk Elephant offers awesome gift sets that are easy on the skin and wallet!
3. Urban Decay Cosmetics – They have the best neutral face palettes that are great for any mother on the go! We recommend checking out the Naked Ultimate Basics Eyeshadow Palette.
For The Home
1. Bath & Body Works – We are huge fans of this brand’s shower gels and fragrances, but nothing beats their Aromatherapy Stress Relief candles made with essential oils. They also offer free gift wrapping and bows. Bonus!
2. Volcano Candles – This energizing, tropical candle makes a great addition to the home and will make her feel like she’s on a paradise island far away!
Rachael Sablotsky Kish is the Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Imalac, a med-tech company which created Nurture, a hands-free breast massage system for nursing mothers that uses an attachable massage component to replicate hands-on pumping. Kish is a Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC), educating and training women on breastfeeding.
