The countdown to baby’s arrival is on and with it comes the endless supply of prams, cribs, bouncers, toys and other gadgets and gizmos! If you’re pregnant with your first child or an expecting parent here’s the list of all the Editor-Approved Essentials to help you prepare for your bundle of joy. Check out our favourite Metro Baby products that’ll help you ease into parenthood.
Prams
Like a car, everyone’s preferences when it comes to a pram vary.
A good pram will be comfortable and easy to use while providing protection from the elements and keeping your child safe on the move.
As with most things in life, there are so many options when it comes to picking out a pram that it can seem overwhelming at first but the trick is to focus on features you think are important like the amount of storage, the folding size and weight to name a few.
Bassinet and Cot
One of the key essentials you should look to purchase first is a bassinet and cot. Like a pram, bassinets and cots come down to personal preference, the space you have available in your home and the look and feel you want in the baby’s nursery. It is important to buy a bassinet and/or cot from a reputable retailer, like Metro Baby, to ensure the product is safe, durable and meets the regulations around safe sleeping.
Car Seat
A car seat is probably the first thing you’ll use as new parents to leave the hospital following the delivery of your bundle of joy. There are many variations when it comes to car seats, with some products clipping into your pram to ease the transition from inside to outside the car.
Whatever option you go with, the most important consideration is making sure it’s installed correctly so it can protect your child if an accident occurs. Your mechanic, local hospital and retailers may be able to help with expertly fitting your car seat to your car.
Baby Monitor
You should consider buying a baby monitor if you want to keep tabs on your little one while they’re sleeping, or when you can’t be in the same room. You may even want to use a monitor to see if they are crying and need your help during the night. There are several options available, including video monitors and audio-only models, so it’s best to decide which type is best for you before shopping around.
When choosing a baby monitor, keep in mind the differences between each model like connecting to wifi or operating individually; using your smartphone, tablet or a provided screen and whether you can access the camera from an app when out and about. Again, this comes down to personal choice so read the features and reviews before committing.
Nipple Cream
This is a must-have item for any new mum.
For days when your nipples feel sore, try a nipple cream to help naturally soothe, heal and hydrate and reduce the stress associated with breastfeeding.
A white noise machine
Gone are the days of tip-toeing past the baby’s room and keeping their room in total silence, If you’re looking for an easy way to help your baby sleep, a white noise machine is a great choice. Never heard of a white noise machine? Well, it could potentially change your life and get you a couple of extra minutes of shut-eye. It’s a simple device that plays soothing sounds, like rain or crashing waves, to help your child relax and drift off into slumber.
Nursing Pads
If you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, then there’s no reason to worry about leaks from your nipples—at least not any more than usual! The best way to protect yourself from leaks is by wearing nursing pads underneath your shirt or bra.
Nursing pads come in several different sizes and styles and come in disposable or washable options.
The bottom line is that there’s a lot of stuff out there that you could buy for your baby and it can become overwhelming. Try to not get caught up in too many gadgets and focus on the basics you need to keep your baby happy and healthy.
