So what did I actually use and what was actually worth the money... so far anyway. Let’s be honest as he gets older there are going to be other must haves. I’ve tried to get it to 10 can’t live without products outside of the obvious wardrobe, chest of drawers etc.
1. Muslins. Lots of them.
I remember looking at other people’s babies and thinking my baby won’t have a snotty nose or have dribble all over their chin. Reality check. Babies are messy. They are sick. They dribble a lot. They get milk everywhere. They have snotty noses. You will need a muslin in every room. Don’t waste money on the pretty ones. You’re going to use them to wipe all sorts of gross things.
2. Sleepsuits/all in ones.
Those cute three piece and two piece outfits just look adorable. I know I’ve bought them too. But for your own sanity just put your new baby is sleepsuits. It’s easier for the endless nappy changes and for your own worry. You’ll panic in the beginning about dressing such a tiny human. Ease yourself in.
3. Play mat
Alfie still plays with his play mat. If you really want to get ahead in the parenting game, babies only see in black and white in the beginning so mats with high contrast patterns (black, white and red) will be a particular hit. Cue coffee break.
4. Changing mat
Don’t waste money on the cloths that go over the top. Your baby will pop and wee all over that = more washing for you. Buy a wipe clean one.
5. White noise
We have Ollie the Owl which I’ve used from the beginning to help Alfie’s sleep. Can’t guarantee it’ll work but it definitely reduces those startles in the beginning.
6. Video monitor
This has become much more useful since Alfie has been in his own room. Definitely reduces the anxiety compared to just listening in. It also stops me rushing in at every slight sound or stir. We have a Motorola one. Can’t recommend enough.
7. Isofix car seat
Oh my goodness. So easy to get baby in and out of the car and much safer for baby. Win win as far as I’m concerned. No more fighting with car seat belts stretching it round the seat.
8. Pushchair adapters
Again see above about ease. When you just need to nip in somewhere rather than get baby in and out of car seat just clip on to the Pram. Make sure to check your model of pushchair and car seat to ensure compatibility.
9. Swing/chair
We didn’t really use ours as much as the mat because Alfie wasn’t as keen but I know lots of parents who swear by them.
10. Next to me crib
Oh my goodness. This is a game changer. We had the tutti bambini one and we loved it. Not only does one side drop away for co sleeping but you can drop the ends so baby can sleep on a tilt. This is particularly useful for colicky babies. Also helped us when Alfie had bronchiolitis.
What are your parenting must haves?
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