The Items That Were Most Useful for Me and My Baby

Having a baby changes everything seems like such an understatement. Everything has changed since the birth of my beautiful daughter. I didn't realize I could function on so little sleep, or that I could constantly obsess over someone else's well being. Preparing for her arrival was somewhat stressful as it only took one trip down the baby aisle to become overwhelm with baby products. While some items just seem plain silly there are a few items that I have come to heavily rely on. Here is my list of must haves for baby.

Wipes Warmer - I received one at a baby shower, and this tops my list. The wipes warmer has been a godsend to make diaper changing go smoothly. Those cool wipes on baby's bottom make her squirm, making it harder to finish diapering. The warm wipes, however, must feel good because she stays still and calm. This is one item I hadn't asked for but was thrilled to receive it.

Changing pad - Having a designated place to change baby is essential. At first I was against the idea of having a changing area, but it's been a lifesaver. When her diaper is wet, she is miserable but when I place her on the changing pad she knows she's about to get some relief and usually calms down.

Individual diaper bags - Nothing like having a miniature plastic sack handy for those messy diapers either at or away from home as well as to put soiled clothes in.

Diaper pail - Not only will the diapers be separate from the trash but it'll help with odor. There are several brands out there. Choose the one that you fancy best.

Gripe water - This is a wonderful, natural product to help with hiccups, gas and colic. It's been described as green tea for baby. Hiccups can seem violent as the whole baby's body moves with them and while it may not hurt them it tears at the heart of the parents. Gripe water does great of getting rid of hiccups, and it works fast.

Disposable wash cloths - The first few real baths were no picnic for us so these lather up wash clothes really helped to get bath time over and done with in a hurry. Using a baby tub can take a little getting use to especially when baby doesn't fill it out, so you have to constantly have a hand on the infant. A ready to use washcloth makes it much easier.

Bouncer/soother seat - Sometimes the comfort of mom or dad just doesn't do the trick but the bouncer usually works like a charm. This soothes our baby really fast and usually keeps her satisfied for an hour or so. Great to buy mom some time to do dishes and other household chores.

Automobile Bottle Warmer - Great for long trips since it's hard to warm up a bottle on the road.

Swaddle Blanket - While receiving blankets work well to wrap baby in, a swaddle blanket works wonders. Babies miss that closeness when they are newborns so swaddling gives them a sense of security. It has a place for their hands and makes it much easier to swaddle them than just regular blankets.

Versatile Diaper Bag - You will carry this thing with you everywhere so it might as well be one that has great function with plenty of pockets and a style you like.
I received a nice one with plenty of extras like a changing pad and even a smaller version of bag that's great for quick errands.

While there are plenty of other great products, I am most satisfied with the above mentioned ones. These great inventions have made the transition into motherhood a little easier for me.