Essentials for Feeding Baby
Having a baby can be overwhelming; there are just so many things to think about. I’ve combined my experience as a nurse with my experience as a mom and come up with what I believe are the essentials for feeding baby when they arrive.
Social Media and Baby Stores would have you believe that there are a million things you need. In reality it’s not so important to have the perfect nursery set up. If you have a room, it’s nice to have it painted before babe arrives, but it’s not the end of the world if the room isn’t perfectly set up.
Over the next few weeks, I’ll be breaking down what I think are the important pieces to have set up before baby arrives.
I’ve broken down the necessities for the first few weeks at home into four main categories: feeding, sleeping, diapering, and self-care.
The first topic we’re going to talk about is feeding. Let’s be honest, in those first few weeks (and months) you’re going to feel like this is all you do. Whether you’re breast/chest feeding or formula feeding, newborns feed often. Check out this list of essentials for feeding baby!
Breast/Chest Feeding
There is a lot of research and literature about the benefits of breast milk and breastfeeding. It really is amazing how many benefits there are for both the parent and the infant. However, it is not as easy as many movies will have you believe. It takes practice, and often the support of a professional trained in working with breastfeeding duos.
Support Person(s)
If you are planning to breastfeed, be sure to seek education during the prenatal period. Also find out who can and will support your breastfeeding journey once baby is here. Speak to your care provider to find out if they can support you, or if they can refer you to a specialist.
This also includes your partner or a friend/family member who will spend time in your home to grab you water, food, additional pillows, etc. while you’re feeding.
Breastfeeding Pillow
There are many to choose from. I really like the Jolly Jumper Boomerang pillow. I found it helpful to have a second cover so I could trade out the cover to wash one. (Not a paid endorsement)
Breast Pump
NOT everyone needs a breast pump. What you can do is look into where you can purchase or rent one in your area.
If you do get a pump you will also need to be able to store milk and to sterilize the parts and the bottles.
Bottle/Formula Feeding
If you have already decided that you are going to bottle feed, whether partially or fully, here is a list of the things you’ll want to have:
Bottles and Nipples
There are many options for bottles and nipples. You’ll want to keep in mind that you’re feeding a newborn. You may only want to buy a couple at first to make sure that your newborn feeds well with the style you have chosen.
Formula
If you plan to use formula, the key is to do so safely. Newborns are at higher risk of infection due to their immature immune systems. Safe handling during preparation, and safe storage are key to helping prevent infections.
Bottle Warmer
This is optional as you can sterilize using a pot with boiling water and tongs to remove the pieces from the boiling water.
Here are two websites that are great resources about the safe use of formula:
Bottle Drying Rack
This is also optional, but they do make it easier to get the bottles dry and not have them flying all over the kitchen.
Looking for More Support?
If you found this ‘Essentials for Feeding Baby’ post helpful, be sure to keep an eye out for future posts about more essentials for baby.
Don’t forget, All About Baby offers Newborn Visits! If you would like an in-home visit soon after you bring your newborn home, be sure to get in touch!
Click here to book your FREE 15 Minute call: https://hello.dubsado.com:443/public/appointment-scheduler/613c101d1c61b1dd08996579/schedule