Embarking on the journey of parenthood is an exhilarating experience, filled with boundless love and joy for your new baby. However, it also comes with its fair share of challenges and adjustments. In the ever-evolving landscape of modern parenting, new gadgets and innovations have emerged to make the postpartum period not only manageable but enjoyable and easier for first-time parents.
From revolutionary battery-powered breast pumps that provide flexibility for busy parents to cozy boppys that support both baby and caregiver and interactive activity mats that engage and stimulate little ones, these parenting gadgets have become ESSENTIAL tools for navigating the early stages of parenthood. In this blog post, we explore a curated selection of super-helpful gadgets designed to enhance and simplify the postpartum experience, ensuring that both parents and babies thrive during this transformative time.
These are all from my personal experience, feel free to share anything you thought to be essential during your postpartum period. I would love to add your thoughts to the list. Now right on to it.
Boppy
The first essential item is a boppy. A Boppy is a versatile U-shaped pillow designed to provide support during various activities. It is commonly used by parents for breastfeeding or bottle-feeding their babies. It provides a comfortable and ergonomic position for both the parent and the baby. A Boppy can also be used for propping up an infant during supervised tummy time or for supporting a baby as they learn to sit up.
The pillow is typically made with a soft, washable cover and a cushioned filling. Its design allows for a wrap-around shape that fits around the caregiver’s waist, providing support to the baby while leaving the caregiver’s hands free. The Boppy Pillow has become a popular and practical accessory for parents, offering a comfortable and supportive aid in various aspects of caring for a newborn. If you are smart, you’ll get at least two boppy covers as well. (babies spit up, a lot) Most websites will send you a free cover with your boppy purchase if you get their “baby gift” which is a free baby care box that normally includes a bottle, pacifier, onesie, hat, and a few other small items for the baby.
Wearable Breast Pumps
This revolutionary solution is set to redefine your breastfeeding experience. These innovative wearable breast pumps are a true game-changer. Say goodbye to being tethered to an outlet and hello to newfound freedom! Whether you’re tackling household chores, taking your furry friend for a stroll, or enjoying your favorite TV show, these pumps empower you to do it all, while still pumping.
Not only do they have an impressive milk-holding capacity, but their powerful suction capabilities ensure efficient pumping. What sets them apart is their user-friendly design – they effortlessly disassemble, making cleaning a breeze for every component. As a bonus, your insurance company is on board, offering complimentary backup or replacement parts, ensuring your peace of mind. Elevate your breastfeeding journey with these cutting-edge, versatile Momcozy wearable breast pumps.
Haakka
The Haakaa breast pump is a manual, handheld pump designed to be a simple and effective way to collect breast milk. It’s often used by breastfeeding mothers to catch letdown milk from the non-nursing breast while feeding on the other side. It is also great if you typically have a letdown in the shower. The silicone design makes it easy to wear even under the running water and will catch every bit of the milk. I did some of my best pumping in the shower after my little one was born.
The Haakaa breast pump is recognized for its suction design, where the pump is attached to the breast and creates a gentle vacuum, drawing out milk without the need for manual squeezing or pumping. It’s a popular choice for its ease of use, portability, and the ability to collect milk effortlessly during breastfeeding sessions. It is by far one of the best on-the-go methods for pumping.
Baby Brezza
Baby Brezza is the brand, but their most popular product is the Formula Pro Advanced, a formula dispenser that automates the process of preparing baby formula. It’s designed to mix and dispense formula quickly and accurately, providing a consistent temperature and eliminating the need for manual preparation. There are different settings for the temperature and amount of milk your little one will take.
The Formula Pro Advanced streamlines the formula preparation process, saving parents time and effort. It can be especially handy for those late-night feedings when convenience is crucial. The one-touch operation of the Baby Brezza Formula Pro Advanced makes it user-friendly. Parents can simply select the desired settings for formula concentration and bottle size, and the machine does the rest. My brother and his wife swore by this when their son had trouble with gas after feedings. Having the Brezza helped them have a warmer temperature that was still safe for any baby, which helped drastically cut down on his gas issues.
Bottle Warmer
Whether you are formula feeding or breastfeeding, you are going to need a bottle warmer. The old pot of water on the stove isn’t only unsafe, but it also can break down the nutrients of the breastmilk by heating it too much. There are hundreds, if not thousands of bottle warmers out there, but this one is beyond my favorite.
This bottle warmer has multiple modes that can accommodate various types of containers, such as breastmilk bags, plastic or glass bottles, and baby food jars. This allows parents to warm the contents of these different containers with ease, providing flexibility in feeding choices. There are modes specific to each thing you may be using the warmer for, including warming not only frozen milk bags but also the option to heat bags that are room temp and that have been left in the fridge. As a bonus, for parents of twins, it can heat two bottles or bags at the same time!
Breast milk, formula, and baby food often require precise temperature control to retain their nutritional value. Having multiple modes allows parents to set the appropriate temperature for the specific type of liquid or food being warmed. This versatile bottle warmer can handle various containers eliminating the need for multiple devices. Parents can use a single warmer for different feeding scenarios, reducing clutter and streamlining their baby care routine.
Bum Brush
If you are anything like me, you HATED spreading diaper cream on your baby. The cream would stick to my fingers, creating the illusion that I was paler than I was. On top of that, I could still smell it after I had washed my hands.
A bum brush is a tool designed to assist with applying diaper cream or ointment to a baby’s diaper area. It is sometimes also called a “diaper cream applicator” or “diaper cream spatula.” The purpose of the bum brush is to provide a hygienic and mess-free way of applying diaper cream, especially when parents want to avoid getting the cream on their hands.
The bum brush typically has a soft, flexible, and ergonomic handle for easy grip, and the other end is designed to scoop up a small amount of diaper cream. The shape and material of the applicator end allow parents to spread the cream evenly on the baby’s bottom without having to use their fingers. It can also be a convenient tool for caregivers who need to apply diaper cream quickly and efficiently, especially when dealing with a wiggly or resistant baby during diaper changes.
Velcro Swaddles
Velcro swaddles, also known as swaddle wraps or sleep sacks with Velcro closures, offer several advantages compared to the traditional method of swaddling a baby with a blanket. The Velcro swaddle is designed for quick and easy use. Parents can secure the swaddle around the baby by simply fastening the Velcro tabs, eliminating the need for intricate folding and tucking associated with traditional swaddling. Some babies are adept at breaking free from traditional swaddle blankets, which can increase the risk of the blanket covering their face during sleep. Velcro swaddles help minimize this risk by providing a secure closure.
Velcro swaddles provide a consistent and snug fit each time they are used. This can be particularly helpful for parents who are new to swaddling and want to ensure that their baby is wrapped securely without the guesswork. They can also be especially convenient for caregivers, such as grandparents or childcare providers, who may not be as familiar or comfortable with the traditional swaddling technique.
Bathtub Kneeler and Elbow Rest Set
This is one of those ultimate parent hacks that go through baby stages, to even the young child stages. This set saves your knees and elbows from the harsh metal of the tub and the pain and cramps you get while crouched on the floor. They have a padded sleek design combined with a waterproof cover, making bathtime a breeze. Your toddlers or young children can also use the elbow pad to lean over the tub when they get older. This gadget also doubles if you need to give your furry friend a squeaky cleaning.
Electric Nail File
Have you ever been trimming your baby or toddler’s nails and they wouldn’t stop moving? Then bam, you cut one too short, causing your little one to bleed and cry. It is one of the WORST feelings as a parent to be the cause of your child’s pain. An electric nail file specifically designed for babies is the way to go and saved me so much time and energy trying to fight my child just to trim her nails.
These nail files are low-power and come with multiple tips to grow with your little one. Babies have much softer nails and only require the smallest grit on a file, while toddlers require something a little more heavy-duty. Some even come with attachments for adults. They spin slower than traditional ones you would see used at a manicurist shop, creating the ability to file a baby’s nails without harming their delicate skin. Parents around the globe are switching away from clippers and using an electric file instead.
Diaper Caddy
Diaper caddies are designed with multiple compartments and pockets, providing easy access to diapers, wipes, creams, and other essentials. This level of organization allows parents to quickly grab what they need without rummaging through a larger bag. Diaper caddies are often more compact and lightweight than diaper bags. This makes them convenient for short trips or situations where a smaller, more portable solution is preferred. Having a diaper caddy allows parents to easily transfer essential diapering items between different bags or locations. For example, they can keep the caddy in the car, at home, or in a stroller, ensuring they always have the necessary supplies at hand.
It’s important to note that while diaper caddies are convenient for specific purposes, diaper bags are typically designed to accommodate a broader range of items, including bottles, snacks, toys, and personal items for parents. The choice between a diaper caddy and a diaper bag depends on individual preferences, the specific needs of the outing, and the level of organization and convenience parents are looking for while on the go. Some parents may even choose to use both, depending on the circumstances.
Oogie Boogie Bear
The Oogie Boogie Bear is a unique tool all in itself. Sometimes baby boogers can be hard and scratchy, making it painful to wipe your child’s nose. Unlike a nose bulb which is made for sucking snot out of your wee ones’ nostrils, this is specifically designed for getting harder boogers.
It has two ends with different-sized/shaped tips. The oogie boogie allows for gentle and effective removal of small or even large crusty bits on the inside of the nose without causing discomfort to the child. They offer a quick and non-invasive solution for your baby’s nose. It is important to use the oogie boogie carefully and according to the manufacturer’s instructions. In some cases, pediatricians may recommend specific types of nasal aspirators for infants and young children. Parents should also be mindful of hygiene, ensuring that the tool is cleaned and sanitized properly between uses.
Rolling Cart
This one is touch and go. If you live in a multi-level home, this may not be the one for you. However, it is an amazing hack that helps out in more ways than one. The best thing about it is that it is multipurpose.
These three-tiered rolling carts allow for the prime organization of all your baby’s needs. The rolling feature allows for easy mobility, making it simple to move the cart from one room to another. This is particularly useful for organizing and accessing items in different areas of a home. There is no more lugging your breast pump from one room to the next. You don’t need to walk to the nursery to change a diaper, everything will move with you from one room to the next.
Check out this awesome post on how to organize your rolling cart into a full-blown diaper cart!
Postpartum Waist Trainer
These fabulous contraptions are soft and stretchy. Not only do they help you lose the baby weight faster, but they also provide tremendous support for your aching body. Postpartum, the abdominal muscles, and skin may be stretched and weakened. Some people believe that a waist trainer provides support and compression, helping to tighten the abdominal muscles and reduce the appearance of a “mommy pooch.” They are ESSENTIAL for moms who have had a c-section. The Waist Trainer gives you more abilities to move without pain and without ripping your stitches/staples.
Before using a waist trainer or any postpartum garment, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. They can provide guidance based on an individual’s specific health, medical history, and postpartum recovery needs. Additionally, adopting a healthy diet, engaging in appropriate exercises, and allowing the body time to naturally recover are often recommended approaches to postpartum well-being.
Pacifier Thermometer
Using a pacifier thermometer for a baby instead of a traditional thermometer can have specific advantages, especially when it comes to ease of use and the comfort of the child. Pacifier thermometers offer a non-invasive way to measure a baby’s temperature. Unlike traditional thermometers that may need to be inserted into the rectum, mouth, or under the armpit, a pacifier thermometer allows temperature monitoring without causing discomfort or distress to the baby. This one has multiple attachments for also giving your little one medicine without forcing a dropper into their mouth.
Pacifier thermometers are generally easy to use, making temperature monitoring a quicker and more convenient process for parents. This can be particularly beneficial when dealing with a fussy or unwell baby. They often provide quick temperature readings, allowing parents to get a sense of their baby’s health status rapidly. This can be useful in situations where a timely response to a fever or illness is important.
Snoo
The “Snoo” is a smart baby bassinet created by the Happiest Baby Company. It is not a necessity, but some new parents love this one and have requested it on my other channel. The Snoo is designed to provide a responsive and soothing sleep environment for infants, to help both babies and parents get more rest. Key features of the Snoo include responsive movement, white noise and sound options, safe sleep design, and app integration.
The Snoo has a built-in responsive system that detects a baby’s cries or fussiness. When the baby starts to cry, the Snoo responds by initiating gentle rocking or motion to soothe the infant back to sleep. The Snoo is designed with safety in mind. It includes a swaddle that attaches to the sides of the bassinet, preventing the baby from rolling over and maintaining a safe sleep position. The swaddle also promotes a snug and secure feeling for the baby. If you visit the Snoo website, you can also rent them or buy them “pre-loved” for a tad cheaper.
The Snoo comes with a smartphone app that allows parents to monitor their baby’s sleep patterns, adjust settings, and receive alerts. The app also provides information and tips on baby sleep. It’s important to note that while many parents find the Snoo helpful in promoting better sleep for their infants, it is a high-end product with a corresponding price tag. Some parents may choose more traditional sleep solutions, such as cribs or bassinets, and use other methods for soothing their babies to sleep.
In the journey of parenthood, preparing for the arrival of your little one is a heartfelt and joyous experience. Snatching up essential postnatal baby gadgets like bath mats, bottle warmers, and a rolling cart before your baby is born can bring a sense of ease and preparedness to this exciting chapter. These thoughtful additions to your baby care arsenal not only offer practical solutions but also reflect your dedication to creating a warm, nurturing environment for your growing family.
By having these items on hand, you’re not just acquiring gadgets; you’re embracing a smoother, more relaxed transition into parenthood, ensuring that your focus can be on the precious moments with your newborn. Wishing you a journey filled with love, laughter, and the comfort of well-chosen essentials as you eagerly await the arrival of your little one.