My top ten new mum items I couldn't live without
Being a first time parent is very daunting and exciting all at the same time. For me I remember the shopping lists and the constant conflicting advice about what to buy and the must have products that would make my life an easier place and the existence as a Mum a breeze. Being a new parent isn’t a plain sail. Your probably looking at your perfectly organised baby wardrobe, colour co-ordating array of freshly washed (and ironed) adorable outfits. A few weeks in life is very hectic and I remember a large pile of washing and a baby with no socks!
Now a mum of two with a couple of years gap between them I have come across products that have and will make your life easier. Sharing is of course caring, some of these items I have come across myself, some from friends, and even clients. The biggest advice I give to new mums as they come in to the studio, scruffy bun, no make up, large coffee in hand is listen to yourself. Baby’s don’t come with a manual but as mothers we are built with what is known as the mystical ‘Mothers Instinct’. Do what works for you, in many cases there are no right or wrong ways to get through daily life as a new mum. And if your that mum with a large pile of washing and baby with no socks…don’t forget your doing a great job!
Newborn Baby & Mum Products - My personal Faves
Extra large muslin cloths
I got introduced to these while I was doing a newborn session and I was pregnant with my second baby. They are incredible, you will use muslins like they are going out fashion but the larger ones are so versatile. You can use them to wrap baby, cover yourself while feeding, cleaning up baby, using a blanket for baby during warmer months.
My faves are ones are by aden +anais
Milton Dummy Steriliser
I was so against using a dummy with my first baby, and I was one of those mums who was against most things (until I had the baby) I started using a dummy with my son when he started cutting down his breast feeds. This was when I realised how many dummies fall out, drop in all kinds of places. When your out on the move this is amazing cleans the dummies and is portable. They come in a range of colours too and have an attachment so you don’t loose it.
Hand bag size hand sanitiser
Even before covid 19, being a new mum your very conscious of germs and who is handling your newborn. Even now I always carry a hand bag sized handle, which is perfect for before feeding, or sharing with friends and family. Or even more essential as your baby gets older and starts weaning, all baby’s love snacks while out and about and hand gel helps keep little hands clean too.
Comfy knickers
Before I had kids I loved nice underwear, even matching underwear (remember that) Giving birth is no easy ride. Investing in some comfy knickers is totally a personal bit of advice and one last thing to worry about when your busy with a new baby.
Thermo cup
One of thee BEST investments you will make! Ever heard new mum friends moan they never have a hot drink? Having a new baby means time goes quickly and so does the heat from your brew. Having a themo cup ensures your still getting your hot drink fix.
I love these ones by joules or Emma Shipley
Dry shampoo
Your new best friend. I wont say much on this but buy it! You will thank be later :)
Coffee (Or an excellent decaf varient)
You can literally go Starbucks/costa but if your a new mum who will be spending mornings exhausted having an in home coffee stash is essential. At home we have an amazing nespesso machine with a milk frother. They even do decaf pods if your breastfeeding or trying to stir clear of caffeine.
An amazing bubble bath or bath bomb
Having some self care time is essential. Having a new baby is exhausting and living on very little sleep means having some down time to recharge. My favourite way to have a little bit of zen time is a nice bath. I love simple products like radox but if I want to treat myself I might get throw in a lovely lush bathbomb.
A white noise app
White noise is your friend - well your baby’s friend. Babys love continuous noises that help them reminisce about their womb time. In the studio I use a baby shusher which I love. But there are also plenty of white noise apps too.
A set of helping hands
This one is the most important on this list. As mums were naturally programmed to want to be our baby’s number one. This is great because we love the cuddles and we love to be bonding with them. But mums need time too. Make sure you're getting your partner or family involved in helping. Don’t feel guilty about delegating the baby jobs. Its all part of being a good mum is being a rested mum too. If your breast feeding, when your ready look into expressing so people can support you. If your tired have a nap. You are your baby’s number one and you need to be looked after too.
I hope this has been helpful, and if your baby’s due soon - The very best of luck! - Don’t forget that dry shampoo! If your still looking for a newborn photographer all the details of my sessions can be found here