2020 Newborn Essentials | Baby Products
Disclaimer: Some of the following products were sent for the purpose of testing them out for review. These products are highlighted by the use of an asterisk (*) beside them. This post also contains affiliate links which are indicated by the use of a dagger (†). All review words and opinions are my own. All photos are copyright property of Me Becoming Mum.
Munchkin's arrival was almost 6 years to the day from the date we welcomed our first rainbow baby into the world. Over the years I have accumulated a number of must have items, so read on to discover those which I hand on heart could not be without.
Clothes (obviously)
Body suits and sleepsuits
I love the clothing that they have available (and even have some for myself!) It also washes well and looks just as bright and colourful as new; which for me is an essential test… Babies will poop and puke on pretty much everything you put them in and test the durability. For me, Frugi is worth every penny.
Somewhere for them to chill out
(When they’re not sleeping!)
We all love baby snuggles. Trust me, there is nothing more special than soaking up that newborn smell with your tiny baby close to your chest. Sometimes, however, you will need a break. The washing up may need doing, or maybe, like me, you have other children who equally require your attention. If your baby is not napping in their crib or Moses basket, there are a couple of options for laying them down safely while you get on with other things.
Baby bouncer
If you've been around a while you may remember my review of the baby to toddler rocker from Fisher Price* we were gifted to review as a toddler chair for Pickle a couple of years ago. Safely strapped in, Munchkin loves to chill out, and it's a safe place for him to be (especially with two older sisters barreling around the house!)
Baby gym (a.k.a play mat)
These are not as secure as a baby bouncer or seat but they can be a lot of fun for your baby. They encourage development alongside being an entertaining spot to lay them for tummy time and / or a break for you!
Nappies
As well as changing accessories.
Cloth nappies
Don’t forget, if you need any help with using cloth nappies, you can always drop me a message. Alternatively, check out my cloth nappy blog posts here.
Wipes
If you read my post about making the swap to Cheeky Wipes you'll know we already have cloth wipes at the ready. When you have a newborn, nothing is safer to use on their new, sensitive skin than soft microfiber wipes and water.
† which we'll use for top washing and the white ones we already have I'll keep for nappy changing and bum washing!Changing Bag
A decent changing bag will allow you to have all you need at the ready; whether you’re out for vaccinations, a baby group or popping to a friends for a cuppa. My advice is to shop around for the one which works best for you. A backpack version is best for a parent with other children as they may need their hands free (trust me, this is necessary) Other parents may want a bag which can double as a handbag, with pockets and compartments for all the bits and bobs they and and baby need.
For feeding
Muslins
Bathing products
From supports to cleaning and drying your baby.
Baby seat
Baby bath cushion
A towel (and other accessories!)
A tap cover
This may not be essential for every new parent, but for someone like me, with other children, it is a life saver! Ever noticed how children can be a bit haphazard, even under the most stringent supervision? Imagine trying to bath three (including a newborn) on your own. The Taphat by Dalu* was one of the first products I was ever sent as a blogger almost four years ago. To this day it is still used and I cannot recommend it enough!
A place to sleep
As well as extras to aid comfort, soothing and night feeds.
A crib
I bought some extras to go with our new SnuzPod³ too. This includes lovely sheets, which come in a number of different colours and patterns (I’ve seen they have new rainbow ones too!) and the SnuzPocket which hangs on the end and is a great place to keep everything from wipes to muslins to breastpads for me!
A Moses basket
Sleepyhead
Whilst this isn't essential, the Sleepyhead I bought for Pickle is now being used by Munchkin and I love it. It's soft and cosy, and with a giant muslin wrapped over the top offers a great, protective place for your baby to lay their head.
Soothing sounds (such as white noise)
Night light
The reality is that your baby will wake you up (probably multiple times) in the night. As this is the case, you will want to have some way to see what you’re doing for those middle of the night changes and feeds. Why not double up your night light with a thermometer? I bought the GroEgg to do just that!
Sleeping bags
Items to travel
Car Seat
The Doona we bought for Pickle was one of the best investments we've made. Whilst it may seem expensive, it is a travel system all in itself and I highly recommend it. We use it with its Isofix and it is so quick and easy to use, something that is important when travelling with my tribe.
Baby Carrier
If you type into Google ‘newborn essentials’ hundreds of extensive lists will come up, and the reality is as long as they are safe, fed and loved the rest will fall into place. I hope this list gives you a bit of an easier ride when it comes to preparing for your new little one's arrival.
For more blog posts about new babies from photos to must have products, check out the category here. Do you have a favourite product your used with your newborn? Let me know in the comments below.
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I wasn't ready for Munchkin's early arrival, but got amazing newborn photos. Check them out here!