7 Unbelievably Useful Baby Hacks to Make Life Easier
TL;DR: This blog provides essential baby hacks to simplify parenting for new and seasoned moms alike, featuring tips on swaddling, diaper changes, feeding, and more.
- Master Swaddling: Learn user-friendly swaddling techniques to make your baby feel secure and enhance sleep.
- Efficient Diaper Changes: Organize a well-equipped changing station and use portable changing pads for on-the-go convenience.
- Comfortable Feeding Time: Use a comfortable nursing chair and quality breast pump, and brush up on the best feeding positions.
- Promote Better Sleep: Use a white noise machine, blackout curtains, and a consistent bedtime routine.
- Smart Second-Hand Shopping: Know which baby items to buy second-hand and which to buy new for safety.
- Ease of Travel: Utilize multipurpose travel systems and keep a well-stocked diaper bag.
- Declutter with Smart Storage: Use over-the-door organizers and storage bins to manage baby items efficiently.
New parents are often inundated with advice and suggestions from every corner. Parenting books, blogs, and well-meaning family and friends all seem to have something to say about the best way to care for your new arrival.
With so much information out there, it can be overwhelming to sift through what’s truly useful.
That’s why we’ve put together a list of baby and parenting hacks that stand out from the rest. From mastering the art of swaddling to making diaper changes a breeze, and navigating the complex world of baby products, we’ve got you covered with practical, tried-and-tested hacks that will make your parenting journey easier.
What the Heck are Baby Hacks?
Consider baby hacks the little lifelines that can simplify your day-to-day life as a parent. These might also be called parenting or mom hacks, they’re all about saving time and reducing stress while caring for your little one.
Baby hacks go beyond the general tips and advice you’ve heard before. Rather, they’re ways to approach the challenges of the newborn stage in a way you haven’t thought of before. Maybe it’s a trick for quicker diaper changes or even an innovative way to make bath time a breeze for your fussy baby. These hacks can make life easier while ensuring the best care for your newborn.
Useful Newborn Hacks for Every Parent
Now, for what you’ve been waiting for. These incredibly useful baby hacks are perfect for first-time parents and seasoned moms alike who want to learn more tips and tricks to make parenthood a little bit easier.
1. Swaddle Like a Pro
Swaddling will be your best friend, especially during the newborn stage. Swaddling helps newborn babies feel safe and secure, and can even help them sleep longer.
To swaddle like a pro, select swaddles with user-friendly designs, such as those with Velcro closures or zipper swaddles that make wrapping a breeze. It’s important to swaddle your baby safely, so practice the technique a few times, and soon you’ll be swaddling your baby quickly and confidently.
Bonus Baby Hack: Did you know that swaddling can also help with bath time? Today’s Parent shares that swaddle bathing is a good option for fussy babies who may not want to be bathed. Simply wrap them in a light blanket or swaddling cloth, and carefully unwrap one little limb at a time. Then wash, rinse, rewrap, and repeat.
2. Change Diapers on the Fly
Are diaper changes the bane of your existence? Make things easier by making sure your changing station is set up for success. Keep all the essentials organized and in arm’s reach to make those middle-of-the-night diaper changes a breeze.
And don’t forget about changing diapers on the go. Keep a convenient portable changing pad in the car complete with pockets for diapers, wipes, and creams. This way you’re always prepared for a quick change. Having baby wipes on hand at all times can help you in lots of scenarios, from diaper changes to spit ups.
3. Hassle-Free Feeding
This is more parenting advice – remember that feeding time should be comfortable for you and your baby! If you’re not comfortable the session can be uncomfortable. Similarly, if baby is in an awkward position they might be able to latch properly.
A comfortable nursing chair and a good quality breast pump can make all the difference for feedings. Make sure to brush up on the best breastfeeding positions and, if bottle feeding, consider angled bottles to reduce air bubbles and gas.
4. Soothing Sleep Secrets
Everyone seems to know the secret to helping babies sleep. While each little one may benefit from a different bedtime routine, here are some tried-and-tested baby hacks that can help make a full night’s sleep more attainable:
- Use a white noise machine
- Invest in blackout curtains
- Establish a bedtime routine
- Use a baby monitor
5. Smart Second-Hand Shopping
Second-hand baby stuff can be a great way to save some money. However, you need to be savvy about which gear you can purchase used and which you should get new.
According to Parents Magazine, consider buying these baby essentials second-hand:
- Baby clothes
- Newborn shoes
- Coats and hats
- Baby toys*
- Nursery furniture, such as changing tables or rocking chairs
- High chairs that meet voluntary safety standards
*Before giving your baby any second-hand toys, make sure to do a quick search of the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) recall database to ensure they’re safe.
On the other hand, some second-hand baby gear to avoid include:
- Cribs
- Car seats
- Playpens
It’s best to purchase these items new to make sure they meet the most current safety standards. Some of these products, like car seats, actually expire in 6-8 years.
6. Travel Made Easy
Traveling with a newborn can feel daunting. You can make outings easier with multipurpose travel systems that combine car seats and strollers. You should also keep a diaper bag on hand and have it fully stocked with the essentials for a day out, including everything you’d need for diaper changes, snacks, and even an extra outfit to be safe.
Bonus Baby Hack: Keep an over-the-door shoe organizer in the car filled with extra essentials to keep things like wipes, snacks, and more organized and within easy reach.
7. Declutter with Genius Storage
Newborn babies go through so many clothes, toys, and other things in the first few months of life. Storage is going to be a lifesaver to keep you organized and free from clutter that can add stress. Over-the-door organizers and classic storage bins will help you keep everything tidy and ready for the next chapter – whether that means donating items or saving for a future sibling.
These baby hacks are a great way to make life a little easier, but don’t forget to stop and enjoy the journey of being a new parent! Breastmilk jewelry is one of the most unique ways to celebrate the unforgettable bond between mom and baby. Shop our hand-made breastmilk jewelry at KeepsakeMom today!
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