things i actually used for our newborn
If you’re anything like me, as a first-time mom I was so lost on what I might need and what I’d actually use in the first few months of newborn life. I researched, asked friends/family, searched blog posts, etc. but it honestly still felt so unknown and a little overwhelming. I wanted to feel prepared. Shocker- you actually can’t be 100% prepared, and also you’ll probably NEVER feel that way. At least I never did.
But, looking back there were a few items I really did use every day and love!
Today I’m sharing my newborn favorites! I’d purchase all of these again and if we are lucky enough to have more babies in the future, I plan to store these items and reuse them as well!
Muslin Burp Cloths- These are definitely an essential. You will need more burp cloths than you expect. In those first few months, your baby’s digestive system is still getting used to consuming milk. Some amount of spit up is absolutely expected! You’ll do more laundry than you ever thought possible. These were by far my favorite burp cloths (and still are). I love the shape because it easily contours over your shoulder. But you can also clasp it around your baby’s neck as well once they are big enough and it’s like a little bib. Love them! They also are so soft and such cute prints!
Baby Carrier- There are lots and lots of options. While I love this one, and find it easy to use, I highly suggest going to a store and seeing if you can try a carrier on in person. You won’t know what’s practical and comfortable for you until you try one on. I love this one in particular because it’s adjustable throughout your baby’s life. I also love the structure and the low back support. Both my husband and I use this and can easily adjust it to fit our needs.
Hatch Sound Machine- This is a big must! I love the option to control this from our phones and it is such a lifesaver to reduce any noise outside the nursery room. I didn’t know this until I had a baby, but babies love white noise because that’s similar to how it sounded inside your belly while they were growing! The white noise is super soothing to your baby. The Hatch machine has lots of different sound options as well as colored lights.
Lightweight Swaddle Blankets- Again, there are SO many options for these! I liked that these ones were very lightweight and had such cute prints. These are also a larger size option, which I loved!
Zipper Swaddles- Trust me, you want a swaddle with zippers on the bottom! These are life-changing for those middle of the night diaper changes. Jack HATED diaper changes and these really helped so I didn’t have to undress him fully every time. I will say that these worked best once he was about 2 months old as they do run a little big in my opinion.
Snuggle Me Organics Lounger- This is probably my #1 must-have item. We used it every single day for months. Especially when I was home on maternity leave, and it was just the two of us. It was so helpful to have somewhere soft and comfy to put Jack down while I got some things done. He loved this and it was often one of the only ways I could set him down without him crying. They come in tons of color/fabric options, and you can also purchase a cover as well. The idea behind the lounger is that it basically feels to your baby as though they are being held, so it’s very comforting to them.
Portable Sound Machine- Another must-have item! Right up there with the #1 spot. This was lifesaving for us. It would soothe Jack within seconds if we were out of the house and he got upset. It is rechargeable and this was also the sound machine we used for his basinet when he slept in our room the first three weeks.
BIBS Binky- This was (and still is) the only brand of pacifier that Jack will take. He loves it! Supposedly it is a more ‘nipple-like’ feel and great for breastfed babies. I also think they are just so cute! Comes in tons of color options as well!
Light Up Diaper Caddy- This isn’t an absolute must-have, but personally I love it! There’s a light in the middle you can tap on or off, which is battery powered. Perfect for a little extra light in the middle of the night. It fits a sleeve or so of diapers, wipes and any creams/accessories you might want. I also liked the easy portability of it as well.
Cozy Stroller Blanket-This is Jack’s favorite blanket. He loves how soft and cozy it is and so do I! Such a good blanket for car rides, stroller walks, and while nursing. It also comes in some really pretty options. If you have a baby girl, the pink is beautiful! We have also washed it many times and it has held up so well.
Ubbi Diaper Pail- #2 must-have item! This really, honestly does contain the diaper smells. It’s pretty crazy! My favorite part about this diaper pail over other options is that you don’t need special trash bags. We just use our normal full-size trash bags and they fit great!
