Welcoming a new baby is an exciting experience for each mom. As a new parent, one of the most important aspects of caring for your little one is feeding, it doesn’t matter whether you breastfeed or bottle-feed your little one. However, the great variety of baby feeding products available in the market can be overwhelming. To simplify this process, we have created a useful baby feeding checklist that highlights the items you truly need. Hope this comprehensive checklist will help you to meet a situation head-on and prepare for a successful and stress-free feeding journey with your baby.
Breastfeeding Essentials
The majority of moms around the world choose to feed their little ones with their own milk. But don’t think that if you do this, you don’t need any items. Here is a list of the most needed things to make the process easier for both.
Nursing Bras and Clothes
Buy a few comfortable and supportive nursing bras. Look for bras made from breathable cotton fabric, featuring wide straps for added comfort and convenient one-handed cup releases. Also, think about comfortable outfits that give you an opportunity to feed wherever you need: special kinds of trunks, T-shirts, dresses, etc.
Nursing Pads
These absorbent pads are placed inside your bra to prevent leakage and keep you dry throughout the day. Choose between disposable and reusable options based on your preference.
Nipple Cream
Breastfeeding can sometimes lead to sore or cracked nipples. Nipple creams or ointments provide soothing relief and aid in healing. Look for lanolin-based or natural ingredient-based creams that are safe for your baby.
Breast Pump
A breast pump can be incredibly useful for various reasons. It allows you to express milk for times when you can’t directly breastfeed, helps stimulate milk production, and allows others to feed the baby. Choose between manual or electric pumps based on your needs. You also will need this device at the end of your breastfeeding to stop producing milk.
Milk Storage Bags or Containers
If you plan on pumping and storing breast milk, invest in sterile milk storage bags or containers. These ensure the safe and hygienic storage of breast milk, maintaining its freshness and nutritional value.
Nursing Pillow
A nursing pillow provides support and helps position your baby comfortably during breastfeeding sessions. Look for a pillow that is adjustable and provides proper back and neck support for both you and your baby. Luckily nowadays, there are a variety of kinds, colors, and textiles you can choose. It can even be a stylish décor for your bedroom.
Nursing Cover or Shawl
For moms who prefer added privacy while breastfeeding in public, a nursing cover or shawl can be in handy. It allows you to nurse discreetly while providing coverage.
Bottle-Feeding Essentials
Unfortunately, sometimes breastfeeding is impossible for medical or physiological reasons. Sometimes it is a choice of mom because of work or traveling, etc. In this case, there are a lot of useful devices and items to make life easier. Here is the list.
Baby Bottles
The most important is to Invest in a set of high-quality baby bottles. Look for bottles that are BPA-free, easy to clean, and come with different nipple flow options suitable for your baby’s age and feeding needs. You can choose plastic, glass, anti-colic, organic, and so on.
Formula
Choose a formula that is suitable for your baby’s age and meets its nutritional requirements. Consult with your pediatrician to determine the best formula option for your little one. The variety of them in our mass market is incredible. One of the most popular, for example, is the HiPP Anti-Reflux formula, which helps to ensure that eaten food stays where it must be – in the stomach.
Bottle Brush
A bottle brush with soft bristles is essential for cleaning baby bottles and removing any leftover formula residue. Look for a brush with a small nipple brush attachment for thorough cleaning. Attention: you should change the brush every two months to be sure that your baby uses really clean bottles.
Sterilizer
To ensure proper hygiene, it is obligatory to buy a bottle sterilizer. This appliance helps sterilize bottles, nipples, and other feeding accessories, eliminating harmful bacteria and ensuring a safe feeding environment for your baby.
Bottle Warmer
One of the most useful mom’s devices, especially at night and on long walks, is a bottle warmer that allows you quickly and safely warm up refrigerated or frozen formula to a suitable feeding temperature. Besides, most formulas should be prepared warmly. For instance, Holle Stage PRE (0+ Months) is done with a water temperature of 40°-50° C / 104-122° F.
Look for a bottle warmer that offers temperature control and easy operation. Experienced mothers advise to buy one with USB input.
Burp Cloths
Keep a stack of soft and absorbent burp cloths on hand to protect your clothes from spit-ups and spills during feeding sessions.
General Feeding Essentials
As all we know, after 6 months old, your treasure can start to try to lure you. This new period demands new items in your home.
High Chair
As your baby grows and begins to move to solid foods, a high chair becomes necessary. Look for a sturdy, easy-to-clean high chair that offers proper support and safety features. Some companies suggest such chairs-transformers even at 0+ age.
Baby Spoons and Bowls
Buy some baby spoons and bowls specifically designed for little ones. Look for options made from safe and non-toxic materials featuring soft tips for gentle feeding.
Bibs
Protect your baby’s clothes from food messes with bibs. Choose bibs that are easy to clean or wash and comfortable for your baby to wear. In the mass market, you can find untypical bibs covering not only the baby’s body but even the table where your little one eats.
Sippy Cups
When your baby is ready to transition from a bottle to a cup, sippy cups come in handy. Look for spill-proof options that are easy for your baby to hold and drink from. Besides, the cup should be durable – it certainly is on the floor a lot of times.
Baby Food Storage Containers
If you plan on preparing and storing homemade baby food, pick up a set of BPA-free food storage containers. These containers allow you to portion and store baby food conveniently.
Remember, every baby is unique, and their feeding needs may vary. Obligatory consult with your pediatrician for personalized advice and guidance on feeding your newborn. Don’t be ashamed to ask questions. It will help you happily cherish the precious bonding moments during feeding time and embrace the joy of watching your baby grow and thrive.
