Good to have at home for baby and mother after childbirth

One enters the hall. Maybe putting the baby in its little baby cover on the floor in the hall. And now what? Now it will stay here. Forever?!

It's a huge feeling to bring your long-awaited baby home, and maybe you're completely exhausted after the birth. We have put together a comprehensive list of what is necessary to have at home for baby and mother after childbirth, and what we thought were unnecessary. One less thing to figure out, just check out! Much can also be bought after the baby is born, when needed.

We assume in the list that the baby was born close to the expected date. If baby arrives earlier, the advice may not be entirely appropriate. We also write "you" in the future. Maybe it's just you and baby, in which case you're also a "you" now.

Here and there we recommend things we sell here at nakedfisen.se. We're open about it, no stealth advertising here. If you read about something you like, there are links at the bottom to our products!

FOR baby - Good stuff to have at home right away

• A few changes of clothes

This is a no-brainer. Perhaps the difficult thing is not to buy too many clothes, you don't really need that much. Depending on how often you have the opportunity to wash, the need will of course vary, but what will happen is that baby will occasionally poo or vomit on the clothes, they will not get directly dirty otherwise. If you intend to use cloth diapers from the start, go up a size on everything, they take up a little more space than the disposable diapers. If you have the opportunity to wash twice a week, we recommend:

1 body in size 50 if baby appears early!
5 bodies in size 56, preferably a wrap model so you don't have to pull it over the baby's head in the beginning. If it is not very hot where you are, we recommend long sleeves. Kick suit also works just as well as a body & trousers. A matter of taste.
5 bodies in size 62, but you can buy that afterwards, or you might get a bunch :-)
1 small hat (note that they come in different sizes, we didn't do that the first time. Looks quite funny with a giant hat).
4 pairs of pants in size 56 (if you don't just run a kick suit), either with or without feet. The advantage of having feet on the trousers is to avoid socks that just fall off. The disadvantage is that the baby grows out of the pants a little faster, and that they can be a little fiddlier to put on. However, the baby will probably lie still for the first few weeks anyway. If it's the middle of summer, maybe shorts are enough, otherwise long legs are the order of the day.
2 slightly warmer sweaters that do not need to be pulled over the head.
2 pairs of socks, if pants do not have feet. The socks will probably disappear or become too small before they get dirty.
6 "drool bars", the number strongly depends on the baby :-)

We sell a cute organic hat and organic dregs, bodysuits and kicksuits here at nakenfisen.se, links are at the bottom of the post.

Warmer clothes are of course needed for outdoor stays, but with a warm bed in the carriage, it may not be something that is absolutely necessary from day 1. If it is really cold, we recommend an overall with a hood, then you will get between hospital, car and home without problems.

• Diapers

Don't buy too many in Size 1, the baby outgrows it quickly, or may not need it at all. Buy some size 2 instead as well. We liked the Libero Touch, which are super soft on sensitive skin (not sponsored, just honest). Or you use cloth diapers from the start. We have a model especially for newborns. It's good to be aware that baby may poo like 10 times a day in the beginning (or not at all, they are very different). Starting to use cloth diapers can be a little scary, but our experience is that a good quality cloth diaper keeps the poop in. Baby Behind's diapers have caused less leakage than disposable diapers for us. Feel free to try cloth diapers at home first and continue with disposable diapers for a while if it becomes too difficult with all the washing in the beginning. If there will not be that many hours of sleep in the first few weeks, it is good to take the opportunity to rest as soon as the child sleeps. Then you don't want to stand in the laundry room. Be kind to yourself!

• Washcloths

Feel free to run on soft, dry cloth or paper washcloths that are wetted with plain water at the beginning. It's better for baby's sensitive bum than wet wipes. If you still want wet wipes, remember to use perfume-free and eco-labeled.

• Mini towels

Even if you don't use fabric washcloths, we can really recommend getting a bunch of small towels (like 15x15 cm) to put under the baby on the changing table, so you don't have to wash the entire pad if it gets a little messy during the change (not unusual...). Also good for gently patting the tail dry with after washing.

• Changing bed

You don't have to have a changing table, but make sure there is a dedicated place with a soft surface to change diapers, where you can collect what is required for the change. Preferably under running water if possible, so you can rinse washcloths without letting go of baby with your other hand. Have some old towels as mats and put this within reach: washcloths, diapers, towels, baby changes. And a diaper bag or diaper pail nearby then.

• Antipyretic medicine in supp form

The only medicine we knew was necessary for our own peace of mind to have at home, most other things can wait until the pharmacy opens, unless you live far out in the country, of course. If you haven't used soups before, note that they should be inserted flat side first (not entirely intuitive).

• Bath oil or emollient cream

Baby will certainly be dry as a snot in the beginning. The best thing for really dry skin is to avoid the bath oil and instead lubricate with cream or almond oil afterwards. Almond oil is great to do a little baby massage with after the bath. But for a slightly older baby with normal skin, in our experience it can be nice to have a little organic and perfume-free bath oil in the bath water.

• A sleeping bag/swaddle

If your child has a strong startle reflex (aka "clutch reflex", "Moro reflex" or "fall reflex", dear child has many names...) and throws up his arms as soon as he falls asleep and thus wakes himself up, then a swaddle can be invaluable. In many countries, the baby is swaddled for the first few months. A swaddle is much easier and safer to use. When the child does not need or can keep the arms inside anymore (when it starts to turn), e.g. an ErgoPouch that we sell here at nakenfisen.se can be used as a sleeping bag instead.

• Soft blanket

There's never anything wrong with a little cozy blanket for extra warmth, buy one that's easy to wash.

• Bathtub

If you have a bathtub, it is not necessary, and perhaps the sink will work at your home. But generally speaking, the tub is quite large, and there are smart little tubs with inserts for baby that are good. Borrow from a friend if you can!

• Stroller

This is a post in itself, so we will content ourselves with suggesting a few things to think about:

1. Need swivel front wheels? Basically a must in the city, less so in the countryside. Then big wheels and suspension are perhaps more important for the cart to have.
2. Reversible seat (on the seat part that is)? It can be nice to be able to turn the baby over when he starts to get really curious about the outside world. However, research has shown that the child communicates more and is less stressed if it first sits so that it can see the person driving the pram (read about the study here)
3. Should the cart enter the elevator? Then measure and get a stroller that fits if possible. It is very nice to be able to drive all the way home if possible.

• Diaper bag

We liked having a large diaper bag to hang on the stroller with a removable soft pad to change diapers on. We run one from Littlephant (again, not sponsored) which has been excellent, but there are certainly many that are great. In it we have e.g. a change of clothes for the baby and an extra t-shirt for the parent, a smaller diaper bag with diapers, wet wipes, a bag for used diapers, and a disposable pad from Libero (which we use on top of the soft pad until there is an accident, then we put it down a new!). Some like to keep alcohol gel in the diaper bag, but it can also be a health risk for older children, so remember to keep it away from itchy fingers in that case, or buy a child-proof version. In the large diaper bag, it is also suitable to put baby's BVC book, nursing pads for mother if necessary, keys for pram room, and pacifiers if one uses it.

• Baby protection (car seat for baby)

If you have to drive home from BB, unfortunately a baby seat is needed, as taxis only have seats from 6 months and up. If you have the opportunity and feel safe with it, borrow or rent. It takes such a short time, and it is very unnecessary for everyone to buy brand new ones that are only used for 6 months.

FOR BABY - POSSIBLE, BUT NOT COMPLETELY NECESSARY TO HAVE AT HOME

• A baby carrier or shawl

It will be very painful at the beginning and it won't take long before carrying and breastfeeding start to feel in the back and shoulders. A sling that holds the baby close to the body can be good to have if the baby has difficulty falling asleep or you need to have your hands free.

• Ointment against red tail, e.g. Bepanthen or natural fats

We only used it a few times. What we found to be the best against red bottom is to air baby's tail properly from time to time. They heal incredibly fast! Take the opportunity to play and cuddle with your baby so that it is completely dry before putting on the next diaper, but watch out for unexpected pee attacks.

• Nose-free "cord suction"

An unpleasant product, but so damn good for fussy babies! And it's actually not disgusting to use it, you suck far from the nose into a small hose :-)

• Pacifier

Our children have liked their pacifiers. You do as you and baby want! Buy new ones (they can get dry and loosen at the attachment) and boil before use.

• Replacement and baby bottle that fits replacement

Of course if you don't want to or can't breastfeed. It can also feel good to have some substitute ready at home, even if you intend to breastfeed. But it might also be possible to fix it at short notice if you live in the city. Use common sense and don't buy too much unnecessarily. The same applies to various breastfeeding pacifiers etc., first check how it goes.

• Breast pump and baby bottle suitable for breast milk

There are both manual and electric breast pumps (expensive!). In our experience, it is rarely something that needs to be fixed with immediate effect, you probably have time to wait until the pharmacy opens if it is something you want/need. Tip! Even if the mother is breastfeeding, partners can help with the feeding if it suits you, e.g. during the night.

• Nail file in sandpaper

Good for filing the first baby nails, which can also often be torn off. However, it is often available at BB, and will not be needed on day one.

• Baby tops

Will be needed sooner or later, safe tops for baby with small cotton balls that prevent them from going too far into the ear / nose.

• Scissors with rounded edge

This is great to have when baby's nails get a little harder, so you don't accidentally poke them with sharp nail scissors. However, not exactly needed at the beginning.

• D drops

Of course, the baby must have D-drops, but you can certainly get that at BVC anyway, no stress about buying home in advance.

• Baby gym

Make your own, buy one or borrow one if you want. It is not needed for very long but it is great to have. But of course not an absolute must have, and perhaps a good gift to wish for from parents who want to contribute.

• Baby's fill-in book

It's great to have a book to fill in, but you'll have time to buy it later. Little mini won't have time to turn over before you've had time to walk around town and check exactly which book you want. Or buy online! This could also be something you might get from friends or family.

• Baby monitor / baby watch

If you live in a small apartment, you will hardly need one. You can hear the baby even if you are in the living room... But if you live in a large apartment or house, it might be relevant. Nothing that is needed on day 1 though.

• Baby nest

Nothing must, but very practical and cozy is our experience. Use in bed, in the cot, on the sofa or in the pram.

• Lambskin

We have found it wonderful to have a lambskin to lay baby on on the floor and to bed with in the pram. Our lambskins here at nakenfisen.se come from our own organic farm, so of course we feel extra warm about them!

• Cot

Nothing must, follow the advice for safe co-sleeping if you want to do just that. If you want a cot, we have loved our "Troll" which has a lowerable side to be placed closest to the bed. Baby outgrows it fairly quickly though, so resell or borrow if you can. We ourselves have combined co-sleeping with putting the baby in the crib when it suits. Buy at least a slatted cover, mattress, mattress cover and sheets. Maybe you want a small flat pillow, read on and decide for yourself. Blankets and duvets are not necessary in our opinion, see below.

• Babysitter

Nothing one must have at home until baby arrives, but also something we recommend. However, make sure that baby does not sit in it all day long, it is important that baby gets to move around in different positions during the day, just like us adults.

• Mobile to hang over pram and cot

Nothing you will miss the first week, but probably appreciated when the baby is a few weeks old.

• Toys, stuffed animals and rattles

You will hardly want to fill the baby's crib with stuffed animals in the beginning, and the only thing the baby is interested in is being close to you. So don't worry if you don't have something like this at home, you'll definitely get more than you need soon... Remember that what baby puts in his mouth must be free of BPA, hormone-disrupting phthalates and other scary things. It generally is if it's new plastic or painted paint but beware of used. And preferably drive ecologically, of course.

• Extra sun protection / sleeping screen

We also have to recommend the smart sleep and sun protection we sell from CoziGo. It is completely unique in its smart design that fits all prams and airplane bassinets. It is of course possible to get by without it, but its existence is the whole reason why we started nakenfisen.se, to be able to import this smart sun protection from Australia to Sweden. It works like a small tent and can be folded down on one side at a time, so that baby is constantly protected from the sun, but can see out, and you as parents can see in. The top.

FOR BABY - worthless purchases in our opinion

• Specially designed plastic diaper pail

Don't buy an expensive diaper pail! In the beginning, the poo doesn't smell very much and can be thrown in the regular bucket. When baby starts eating real food, it smells worse than seven seasick sailors, so a diaper pail won't help anyway. You will have to throw the poo directly in the toilet or try to empty the bucket as quickly as possible anyway. The plastic pails that are available for purchase only absorb odors and our experience is that it is not worth it, rather use a metal pail or a cheap garbage pail to throw away when the nappy phase is over. If you use cloth diapers, we recommend having two cloth diaper bags to rotate between.

• Bath thermometer

Nothing wrong with using one, but today's digital thermometers are super fast and can be used just fine to check both baby's bath water and bottom when needed.

• Blanket and duvet cover

We only use sleeping bags, so the blanket is unnecessary. A sleeping bag cannot get over the baby's head or kick off, which we thought felt safe. On cold nights, we sometimes put an extra blanket over it. You decide for yourself what you prefer.

• Cute little shoes and slippers for newborns

Yes, it's cute, and a nice photo-op :-) But hardly practical before baby can walk. You will probably have enough of putting on socks, over and over again...

HAVING HOME FOR MOM - THIS IS WHAT WE LIKED

• BIG, loose panties

"Borrow with" a bundle from the hospital, many people we spoke to do that. The netflies there are unbeatable right after birth. Caesarean section we dare not comment on as we lack experience, but reasonably large and soft is preferable there as well.

• BIG pads (at least after vaginal birth)

Same here, "borrow with" from BB and buy the largest possible at the pharmacy. They will eat.

• Nursing bra (when breastfeeding)

Use bras without metal underwires to avoid milk engorgement. It's not exactly easy to find one you like, but mom might even sleep with it on. So put some extra time and money into some good ones!

• Nursing pads (when breastfeeding)

These are the pads you put in the bra to avoid leakage. There are both disposable (they look pretty much the same as the whole bunch) and reusable ones that can be washed.

• Medela breast care cream from PureLan (when breastfeeding)

Or similar. The important thing is that it is not toxic for babies, of course. And maybe it is not needed. If you are going to breastfeed, our best tip is to read as much as possible and get a lot of help from the staff at BB, they are there to help.

• Chocolate (especially when breastfeeding)

Day 3-4 somewhere is supposed to be the worst. Mom's tits will swell, and she'll think she's casting for Baywatch. Except for the pain then. It will get better soon, cue CHOCOLATE.

• Food in the freezer

Have some food at home so you don't have to think about it for the first few days.

And finally, our best tips: Take it as it comes. You don't have to decide anything in advance. Listen to baby and ignore advice you don't like. HUG!