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I’m the first in my family to have had a baby; honestly, it was a steep learning curve for me as I had no one to guide me. Plus, we weren’t allowed to have anyone over during the pandemic. What I did to learn was to read lots of books, do research and watch videos on YouTube. I wish I’d had a big sister to guide me a bit.
In the first part, I covered the “emergency” essentials, which were helpful from birth until around six months. For this article, it’s less of an urgent question, but I’ve done a round-up of everything I needed, and I’m putting it here.
I’m sharing what I bought 4 years ago, but it depends on you and your child. I’m just sharing what worked for me.
1- Cocyntal (Baby Colic) :
My son had colic for the first 8 months of his life. Unfortunately, I also had colic when I was a baby, and seeing him suffer was very distressing. A homeopathic solution that was recommended to me and that several of my mom’s friends have also used is Boiron Cocyntal. It’s effortless to use and is quick.
2- NARUTOO Swaddle Wrap for Baby, Newborn Boy or Girl:
Even though the father and I learned to swaddle him, he always took it off because it moved so much. We’ve been using this brand for a long time, and I think it’s a good alternative for people who don’t like swaddling or babies who don’t like it. The fabric is made of cotton, which is comfortable and breathable.
3-Night Pacifier for 0-6 months (2 pack), Unisex:
I recommend them because of the low price and because they were the only ones my son liked. They’re silicone and have beautiful patterns that allow you to see them in the dark. Looking at the reviews, I can see I wasn’t the only one. They’re well-made and designed for babies’ mouths.
4- Dr. Brown’s™ Clean Steam Baby Bottle and Pacifier Sterilizer and Dryer
If you’re bottle-feeding your child, I recommend this article. I also used it when I first started giving him bottles, and it was reassuring to have it. In the rush of motherhood, it’s unrealistic to think you’ll always be able to clean bottles the minute your baby finishes them. The Bottle Sterilizer has three functions: it cleans steam, dries, and has an automatic function. It’s BPA-free, too.
5- PandaEar Baby Bath Rince Cup ( Silicone)
Bath time can be both a loved and hated moment. This cup is small and perfect for a baby’s head. After I’d finished putting on the shampoo, I found it helped to have it.
6- JJ Cole Original Bundleme Bunting Bag:
Canada is known for its cold weather. Where I live, it’s -35 degrees during winter. I don’t know where you’re from, but this was essential for us!
7- Nuby Soft Silicone Fish Teether Green:
This was handy and a must when the baby was teething! Of all the teething objects I bought, he only used this one.
8– Boiron Boiron Camilia Baby Teething Relief Medicine:
Another one from the Camilia brand was worth having nearby!
9- Dr. Brown’s Natural Flow Anti-Colic:
This 6-bottle pack is all the rage on Amazon, but it was recommended to me when my child was colicky. I was initially skeptical, but these are the only bottles I’ve ever used and continue to recommend.
10-
ZMLM Baby Tummy-Time Baby Water Mat
Tummy time strengthens a baby’s neck and other muscles. Doing it often will help your little one. I found this cute little transparent mattress on Amazon and decided to try it! It’s filled with water, and little fish are inside, making tummy time even more fun.
11- Dr. Brown’s Clean Steam Baby bottle: https://amzn.to/3C84XTl
If you’re bottle-feeding your child, I recommend this article. I also used it when I first started giving him bottles, and it was reassuring to have it. In the rush of motherhood, it’s unrealistic to think you’ll always be able to clean bottles the minute your baby finishes them. The Bottle Sterilizer has three functions: it cleans steam, dries, and has an automatic function. It’s BPA-free, too.
12- MUIFA Diaper Bag Multi-Function Waterproof Travel Backpack Nappy Bag for Baby Care with Insulated Pockets: https://amzn.to/48zdECb
