When becoming a new mom, I did so much research on what I needed and what was safe or unsafe. Here is what we found to work and I wish I would have known to get before baby was born.
- Wearable Breast Pumps: As a mom, it feels like you can never get everything done. Whether you are trying to get a steady milk supply or returning to work, you will need a breast pump. Wearable pumps make it easy to get work done around the house and pumping at work a breeze. There are several option out there, but the best part is, you don't have to break the bank to get a set. Here is one option and there are similar options that are HSA eligible. Link: https://amzn.to/3jaME6P
- SleepingBaby Zipadee-Zip: This is a great option for a transition swaddle (once babies start to show signs of rolling over or outgrow regular swaddles). We love the Zipadee-Zip! Some parent worry about the zipper bubbling up over the baby's face, but you can just put it on backwards to prevent it. It is breathable and allows the baby the roll over safely. We also recommend a velcro swaddle before moving to the Zipadee-Zip. It's too much of a hassle to try to wrap a regular swaddle every time baby sleeps. Link: https://amzn.to/3wE41js
- Spout Lids for Mason Jars: I use mason jars to store breastmilk. This lids make it super easy to pour out into bottles or freezer bags. The different color caps can also help you organize the milk with color coding (I separate mine by daytime and nighttime milk). Link :https://amzn.to/3HaBLtA
- Lansinoh Baby Bottles: My baby loves these bottles. They are probably too high of a flow for newborns (I'm sure there are newborn tapered nipple options out there). We started using them when I returned to work and couldn't nurse as often. Our baby loves these and does really well with them instead of fighting it like she did with other brands. Link: https://amzn.to/3Rgra51
- Nuk Comfy Pacifiers: After doing research on pacifiers, I went with the Nuk Comfy Pacifiers. Again, she had no problem taking these and did not fight them at all. They are wide, which is suppose to be better for the shape of their mouth. Link: https://amzn.to/3HEsWK1
- Little Remedies Gripe Water and Little Remedies Gas Drops: Trust me, you will most likely need them. When your baby is getting fussy, especially when trying to eat, they are probably gassy. The gripe water also helps with hiccups and colic. Link: https://amzn.to/3jyaB8o
- Brewers Yeast: I use Mommy Knows Best Brewers Yeast. There are several recipes you can use this in to support your milk supply. I'll make a post later with milk boosting recipes. Ground Flaxseed or Flaxseed meal are also great milk boosters. Link:https://amzn.to/3RgyJsd
- Muslin Swaddle Blankets: Soft and breathable. I was also told that if a baby were to pull it over their face, they could still breath through it. We use these daily. You can use them to swaddle or as just a blanket.
- Zip Up the Front Sports Bras: Way better than nursing bras (and cheaper). Easy to just unzip and push out of the way. You can also just stick nursing pads to the bra and not have to worry about pulling them in and out.
- Nursing/Car Seat Cover: These make nursing in public less of a hassle. Link: https://amzn.to/3Ru3PNv
All of these items worked well for us and might make your journey as a new mom a little easier. Good Luck!