Bringing home a newborn

Bringing home a newborn

So, you’ve done it. You’ve brought a tiny human into the world, and now it’s time to bring that little bundle of joy home. Congrats! But hold up—before you waltz out of the hospital and into a lifetime of adorable baby photos, there’s a little thing called “getting home” that might just feel like an epic quest.

Fear not! We're here to guide you through this exciting, slightly overwhelming, and totally wonderful adventure with a dash of sass and a sprinkle of humor.

Must Have Items

1. A Car Seat (Obviously)

Let’s start with the most obvious—but necessary—item: a car seat. You cannot leave the hospital without it. Make sure it’s properly installed (seriously, get it checked by a professional if you’re not 100% confident) because the last thing you want is to be the mom who got a ticket for a car seat violation on her first day out. Yikes.

Top Car Seat Recs:

  • Pipa RX Travel System: This car seat only comes as a bundle with the Nuna Mixx stroller, but it’s AMAZING. It’s baseless which means it's easy to pull in and out of any car. It goes up to 23lbs and is lightweight. I couldn’t have survived without this seat. 
  • Nuna Exec: Let your baby ride in style with this super luxe convertible car seat. Starting at 5lbs, this seat is super comfy for babies of all ages.
  • Graco Slim Fit: For a more affordable option, this lightweight and slim fit car seat is a great alternative convertible option.

2. Swaddle Blankets

Forget the fancy, overpriced blankets. You need swaddle blankets that are simple, soft, and won’t make you want to throw them across the room in frustration. Babies love to be swaddled, and you’re going to want to do this a lot in the first few weeks. It’s magical. (And it helps them sleep... which means you get a few more minutes of rest. Hallelujah.) 

I remember coming home from an appointment one day and finding my baby in nothing but a swaddle. 

3. Diapers (Duh)

Diapers are obviously a must, but here's the thing: you don’t know exactly what size your baby will need. So, get a mix of newborn and size 1 diapers. And pro tip: Don’t overdo it on the newborn size—your baby may outgrow them in a hot second, and then you'll have a mountain of unused diapers on your hands. You’ll want to have plenty of wipes too because, let’s face it, they’ll be needed more than you think.

  • We’re die hard Coterie girlies but will write a full post on all things diapers and wipes 

4. Nursing Bras or Bottles

If you’re nursing, you need a good, comfy nursing bra. You know, the kind that makes you feel a little less like a busted-up balloon animal and more like a confident, nurturing goddess. If you’re bottle-feeding, stock up on bottles and formula (or breast milk if you're pumping). Either way, you need something to get that sweet babe fed. This isn’t just about baby’s survival; it’s about your survival too.

Favorite bras:

  • Larken X: pumping and nursing bra (and makes a cute crop top)
  • Everything Bra: comfiest bra for sleeping and hanging out 

Favorite Bottles:

5. A Baby Swing or Bouncer

Let’s be real: you’re going to need a place to put your baby down when you need a break. A baby swing or bouncer is a total game-changer. It’ll give you a few minutes of hands-free time to eat, take a breath, or, you know, maybe use the bathroom without an audience. Your baby will be comforted by the gentle motion (and so will you—peace and quiet is precious, mama).

6. Baby Grooming Kit

You’re going to need a tiny little grooming kit for your baby’s delicate features. Get a baby nail clipper (trust me, you’re going to be terrified to trim those tiny nails, but it’s necessary), nail file (electric, regular) a soft-bristle brush for their hair (if they have any), and baby-safe lotion to keep their skin soft and smooth. No one said being a baby wasn’t a lot of work.

7. A Snot Sucker (Yes, Really)

Okay, I’m not going to sugarcoat it: babies are gross sometimes. They can get stuffed up, and guess who’s going to have to clear their little nose? YOU. Get yourself a nasal aspirator (aka snot sucker- manual or automatic) so you don’t have to deal with baby sniffles all night. It’s not glamorous, but it’s totally necessary. Your baby will thank you for it... eventually.

Okay, this one isn’t a physical item, but you need it more than anything else. You’re going to have days when you feel like a hot mess (we all do). So, just remember: you’re doing your best. And if all else fails, try to laugh through the chaos. Babies cry. You will spill things. Your life will be slightly unhinged, but at least you’ll be in good company: all the other moms who are in the exact same boat and take in the amazing snuggles and delicious new baby smells.

Stay strong and enjoy this crazy ride! You got this! 💪👶✨




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