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This post is sponsored by Dreft. All opinions are my own.
Before my first child was born I remember feeling SO unprepared. As a new mom, I had millions of questions running through my mind. With all of the baby gear on the market, what did I absolutely need? Were all of these newborn gadgets really necessary? Were particular items worth the investment? Through trial and error (and two babies later), I've come up with my Top 10 Essentials for Bringing Home Baby.
1. Swaddles: Investing in quality swaddles is essential. Swaddles can be used for EVERYTHING - nursing, swaddling, tummy time, and a car seat cover. Not to mention, because they are so light weight, they don't take up much space in your diaper bag.
2. Freezer meals: I can guarantee when you return home from the hospital, you're not going to feel like cooking a meal. Before the baby comes, be sure to stock your freezer with easy meals that can be prepared in a matter of minutes. Better yet, ask your friends to bring prepared meals in lieu of gifts when they come to visit you.
3. A swing: There is nothing like snuggling a newborn. However, for your sanity, it's important to have some "you" time after your baby arrives. Investing in a good swing really makes all the difference.
4. Dreft Stage 1: Newborn: Life with a newborn entails many extra loads of laundry. Finding a quality detergent that is gentle enough for your baby's delicate skin is absolutely key. Thankfully, Dreft Stage 1 is formulated specifically for newborns. Recommended as the #1 detergent choice by pediatricians, Dreft Stage 1: Newborn's hypoallergenic formula truly is a must for every new baby. Click here to learn more about Dreft.
5. Quality nursing bras: If you choose to nurse your babies, nursing bras are the way to go. They are SO much more comfortable than regular bras. Not to mention, they make nursing SO much easier. 2-3 quality nursing bras should do the trick.
6. Diapers/wipes station: Before baby arrives, stock your home full of diapers and wipes. My personal favorite for newborns – Pampers. They’ve worked the best with both of my babies. Something that helps me immensely is having a diapers/wipes station easily accessible in our family room. This saves MANY trips back and forth to the baby’s room.
7. Bassinet: To be honest, I didn't even need a crib with either of my babies until they were a few months old. Not only are bassinets less money than cribs, but they fit a lot easier in your bedroom; if you choose to keep your baby close.
8. Pads: Be sure to stock up on nursing pads and feminine pads.
9. Entertainment: Have some form of entertainment that you can look forward to each day - favorite TV shows, movies, books, etc.
10. Nighties: I feel like my children lived in nighties and onesies the first few weeks of their lives. My favorite kind of PJ's are the kind of nighties with the elastic at the bottom - they make nighttime diaper changes a breeze.
What's your top baby essential?
Meagan Ivie of A Mom’s Take loves being the mother to a toddler who thinks he's a puppy and a chocolate lab who wishes he were human. When Meagan isn't pulling her son from the doggie door or fishing dog food from his mouth, Meagan enjoys decorating, crafting, cooking, thrift shopping, and eating at unique restaurants.
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