Kimberley Pontbriand

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12 must-have products that save my life every day with my newborn.

When you're expecting your first baby, despite all your good intentions (and hours of research!), it's impossible to think of everything. For my part, I had prepared well for pregnancy and childbirth, but I had done a little less homework on the essential products to have with a newborn.

After talking it over with my mommy friends, I realized that several products came up very often. So I decided to buy them and test them myself. They're now must-haves that I use every day and couldn't live without.

Here's my list of 12 must-have products for the arrival of baby. I hope it will be useful for you moms (and future moms). Let's just say that I would have loved to get my hands on such a list! 

1. Portable white noise machine:
This machine is a lifesaver during naps and sleeps! I try not to use it all the time so that Bea doesn't have to, but when I can't get her to sleep, this little machine works miracles! I take it everywhere with me, whether in the stroller, the car or the bedroom. What's more, the rechargeable battery lasts a really long time (two to three full nights).

2. Adjustable swaddle bag:
All the swaddle bags I've tried were long to put on or came undone overnight. I love these, bought them for 0-3 months and 3-6 months. They're perfect for calming her during nights and naps. Plus, they're super cute!

3. Huckleberry application:
You may have a baby who sleeps all the time, and all over the place. As for me, my Beatrice doesn't sleep at all by herself, and anywhere but on me (for now). So I need to monitor her waking times to make sure she gets enough sleep during the day. This application is wonderful, both for the famous "wake-up windows" and for breastfeeding. The free version will give you recommendations for naps after 2 months (and it really works).

4. Suck:
This pacifier is the only one Bea really likes! I've tried several brands and different shapes, but she doesn't seem to like any of them except this one!

5. Loop earplugs:
I used to put on my AirPods when I couldn't calm Bea down, simply for my sanity, and realized I had Bluetooth in my ears all day long (not ideal, let's say). I bought these plugs, and to tell you how much I love them is an understatement! They're super comfortable, cut through the noise and don't stick out from your ears. A must-have!

6. Lanolin cream:
Breastfeeding moms know how painful crevices can be. This cream promotes healing and helps reduce the pain associated with breastfeeding.

7. Exercise ball:
When Bea can't fall asleep (which is very often!) or is restless, I settle on my exercise ball. The bouncing really helps calm her down.

8. Baby carrier for newborns:
My love for babywearing is growing by the day. Obviously, I love having Béa close to me, but babywearing also allows me to do a few chores around the house during her naps (my little kibble often sleeps only on me!). Smaller than a standard baby carrier and very easy to put on, this one is designed specifically for newborns. A real favorite for me (and for Sam too!).

9. Flynn rocking chair by Oilo Studio:
This rocking chair is honestly the best investment I've made for Beatrice. I spend so much time in it, and it's comfortable and the quality is really amazing. Plus, it's so beautiful that it can be used in my living room in the future.


*Please note that the price is in USD, and there is also a customs fee of around $200 to pay when it's ready.


10.
Muslin baby wipes:
Does baby have reflux? No problem! Absorbent and easy to carry, these little washcloths are perfect. And they're super soft!

11. Pyjamas with integrated mittens and feet:
Who wants to constantly put baby's mittens and socks back on at night (and even during the day)? Beatrice spent her first month of life in pyjamas, day and night, and that was just fine! The most practical pyjamas are those with mittens and integrated feet. I'm a fan of Petit Lem pyjamas, my favorites!

12. Wipes warmer:
Our little kibble is chilly, and it seems that's the case with most babies! This wipe warmer is ideal for diaper changes, as it warms up the wipes, making everything more pleasant.

What are your must-have products? I love getting recommendations! Write your musts in the comments box below!