Essential Kit

The baby business is HUGE. There are so many products out there, so much money you could spend. You have to figure out what is going to work for you and your baby, but to try to help, here are some of the things that we have found worth the cash.

Chicco Next To Me Co-Sleeper

It's so handy having your baby right by you, especially if you're breastfeeding, but having their own space makes co-sleeping feel much safer. The Chicco is great because it's quite roomy and lasts a long time (6 months and he still has space), it's easy to assemble and can be used as a travel cot, the end can be raised which is great for reflux babies. I actually put B the other way round as I find it easier to see him and lift him in and out. We have it in silver and it's lovely. Some review say the mattress is too hard, and it does feel quite hard, but it doesn't seem to bother B.

Amawrap

I love my Amawrap but any fabric sling would do. This photo is us at 4 weeks when I used the wrap for the first time. It changed my life! It's so cosy and snug - newborns love the closeness and B would sleep in it all day long, but it also gives you your hands back. It's easy to tie and I even have a babywearing hoodie. Now he's big and wriggly we use the Ergo 360 which is also great, but nothing beats the snuggliness of soft fabric.

Angelcare Sort Touch Bath Support

Wet babies are slippery little things. This bath support keeps them really safe in the water and leaves your hands free to play with toys. Our favourite is a little watering can.

On the subject of baths, do not use Johnson's products, they are horrible and dry their skin. Coconut oil is a lovely natural moisturiser. Oilatum Junior is good in the bath. Weleda Calendula Nappy Change Cream is lovely day to day but for nappy rash or patches of excema Sudocrem  - or magic healing cream as it's known in our house - is brilliant. Waterwipes are really gentle and are cheapest if you buy in bulk on Amazon.

Bouncy chair
I don't how I would ever shower if I couldn't strap B into his bouncy chair. It's just a cheap one from Amazon but it's an essential.

Galt Playnest

The soft blow-up ring is perfect while sitting is still wobbly and the sensory bits on the edge keep them busy. It was also handy to take on holiday as when deflated it doesn't take up too much room.

Oball toys

Perfect for little hands to grab.