There is seemingly no end to the Pinterest lists of what you need for a baby. (I know I pinned most of them!) Those lists rarely have things for moms-to-be. If they do, it’s almost as an afterthought. Now that my daughter is nearly two-years-old I realize taking care of mama is taking care of the baby.
So, why not have a practical list of things for HER? I consulted the experts—family, friends and my fellow contributors here at Knoxville Moms Blog. I’ve compiled a list, but by no means is it complete! Consider it the jumping off point for the ultimate list of must-haves for new mamas.
1. Walmart Nursing Bras & Camisoles
Buying a nursing bra is more harrowing than buying a swimsuit. That’s the absolute truth. Shortly after my daughter was born I went shopping for more nursing bras. Several stores later, on the verge of tears, and near the end of that two-hour newborn window I discovered Loving Moments nursing bras and camisoles at Walmart. They’re soft, comfortable and don’t have an underwire if you’re worried about supply. Best of all? The bras cost $13.94 each and the camisoles are $14.94. My sister-in-law Sara says they definitely get her endorsement, too. If basic white, black and grey is a little ho-hum for you, I’m thrilled to report Loving Moments now offers cute patterns, too!
2. Spanx Leggings
I owned one pair of Spanx leggings pre-baby. Now I own a LOT. Just like the rest of the shape-wear line, Spanx leggings come in varying levels of control. They all have very wide and very smooth waist bands. Delirious from lack of sleep in those early months, I invested in one pair of the super strength. I still don’t regret that decision no matter what people think! Since then I’ve purchased multiple pairs of the lighter control top at Stein Mart for around $15.
3. Transition Wardrobe
I was pregnant in winter, gave birth in spring and sweated in summer. Then I got my transition wardrobe! What’s that, you may ask? A transition wardrobe is comfortable clothing to wear after baby is born, but before your old clothes fit again. My friend Susan cautioned me not to go too crazy but definitely pick up a couple of things. It’s great advice. I opted for workout shorts, a cotton button-up shirt, linen shorts with a drawstring and the aforementioned Spanx leggings. It did a lot for my comfort level in the sweltering East Tennessee summer!
4. Pain Relief Spray
This probably isn’t on any pre-baby lists because no one wants to scare an expectant mother. But I can’t think of anything that offers more immediate relief for a new mama! My doctor suggested Dermoplast, which is available over the counter at Walgreens. I tried some all natural varieties from health food stores, but they paled in comparison. Do talk to your doctor before you spray anything. Would it be wrong to give Dermoplast as a baby shower gift? I’m seriously considering it!
5. Water Bottle
It’s important for breastfeeding mothers to drink, drink, drink. Water, that is. I loved the ease of filling up a giant water bottle in the morning and sipping on it all day. Fellow KMB contributor Jenna swears by her Hydro Flask. She said it keeps water with ice cold for a looonnnnggg time. Hydro Flask claims their bottles keep things cold for 24 hours. I’m sold!
6. Nursing Pillow
This may state the obvious, but there seem to be several camps on the kinds of nursing pillows a new mama should have, everything from The Breast Friend to the Boppy. We can all agree, however, ANY nursing pillow is a necessity! I opted for the Boppy mainly because I found the insert at the Duck Duck Goose consignment sale. I washed the insert, bought a new cover and voila!
7. The Mommy Hook
If you’re into rock climbing (which I’m not), you’ll recognize the Mommy Hook as a specially designed carabiner. It was a gift from my mother and I love it! You can clip it on your stroller or shopping cart and hang your diaper bag/purse within easy reach. I found The Mommy Hook for just $3.95 at Walmart.com. With free shipping to the store you’re in business for less money than my Starbucks order.
8. Key & Cell Phone Finder
Ever heard of mommy brain? If you haven’t, you probably just forgot because you have mommy brain! One of the symptoms is constantly losing your keys and cell phone. Fellow KMB contributors Jenna and Lyndsey have the perfect solution. The Tile phone and key finder uses an app to help you locate one when you’ve got the other. The device requires zero upkeep. Perfect for mamas “upkeeping” everything else!
9. Netflix/Kindle
You spend lots of time breastfeeding that sweet new baby. When you’re awake during those middle of the night sessions, why not watch your favorite show or read a book? Fellow KMB contributor Lyndsey suggested a Netflix subscription or a Kindle for a new mama. I used our DVR to record lots of shows. (I hope all the “Real Housewives” and “Ladies of London” episodes didn’t permanently damage my baby!)
10. Lip Gloss Gift Pack
Frivolous? Yes. Necessary? Absolutely! I keep mine in my mini van. Once my daughter is strapped in her car seat I smear it on (no matter what I’m wearing!). I have fun deciding on a color. Am I feeling White Russian or Amber? And it makes me feel slightly pulled together even when I’m not (clearly!).
So, if you see a mama at Walmart wearing Spanx leggings, hot pink lip gloss with her diaper bag on a Mommy Hook it’s probably me. Come say hello. Let’s talk about how the best thing on any mama’s must-have list is her sweet new baby!
What would you add to the list of new mama must-haves?
After baby #3, my transition wardrobe was really important (and still is). I am SO glad that flowy tops are in – they hide the mommy pooch SO well – and they are fashionable, so ha! 😉
The mommy hook is a must, and yes you don’t want to, but you need the in between clothes!