New Baby, New Gear

Becoming a first-time parent is a stressful and exciting time. With everything going on, nesting can set it early, and it is essential to know what you need for when your little bundle of joy arrives. At GetLocal, we have thousands of products and gear from across Ireland for you to choose from when getting prepared. We have compiled a list of things you need to get you started with the new baby to make it easier. Even if this isn’t your first child, it is always nice to have a refresher on what you will need or even replace some of your old baby gear that is no longer safe or suitable for the new baby.

Baby Proofing Gear

We know that it seems a little too soon to be worried about babyproofing your home since infants can’t get around anywhere without you carrying them there. However, that stage doesn’t last long and by the time your baby is around 6-10 months, they start crawling and getting around on their own. This means that they will have the ability to knock things over, grab things like furniture that could easily fall over onto them, or even access the stairs. With this in mind, 2 safety gates for stairs (both the top and bottom of the staircase), cabinet latches, drawer latches, and furniture anchors are important babyproofing essentials to start out with.

Nursery Furniture

Whether your new baby will be sharing your room or having their own nursery, it is important to know exactly what you will need to make them comfortable and your job of taking care of them a little easier. To start, a crib or co-sleeper is important so that they have their own space to sleep. If you choose a crib, be sure that you pick up a crib mattress as well. A changing table or station is also crucial to be able to keep all nappy changing essentials and grooming products in an organized place. Last but certainly not least is the nappy bin or hamper which keeps the smell to a minimum between changings.

Feeding Gear

It is safe to say that feeding the new baby will be a task in itself and is one of the most important. This is why it is so important to have everything you need to keep the baby nourished and healthy. If you are going to be breastfeeding then nursing pads, nursing bras, a breast pump, and milk storage bags are essential. If you are going to be formula or bottle feeding, then bottles and teats,a sterilser, burp clothes, bibs are essential.

Nappy Gear

Ah yes, the most exciting part about being a parent, is nappy changes. Insert sarcastic eye roll here. Even though it isn’t something we all look forward to, we can make it easier on ourselves by having everything we need to keep the new baby fresh as a daisy when it is time for a nappy change. This would include a changing matt, cotton wool/wipes, nappy cream, nappy bags, and of course, nappies! Plus, this will all fit nicely at your new changing table or station.

Bathing and Grooming

Bathing your baby is not only great to keep them clean but also helps with your bond. The baby spent nine months in a cocoon of warmth when he or she was in their mummy’s tummy so, once they get used to bath time it feels very familiar to them. This is also why it is important to have the bathing and grooming essentials you will need to start bath time off on the right foot. These items include; hooded towels, wash clothes, an infant tub, a bath seat (after 6 months), bath wash, shampoo, a comb and brush set, nail trimmers, cotton balls, and a bath thermometer. Good thing we have a whole section of local baby bath supplies to help you find these items near you!

Travel

 You and your baby will be travelling from the moment you leave the hospital. It is vital to have the correct travel gear needed. Not to mention safe travel gear, which we have a wide-ranging selection from local shops. To start, you will need a car seat, pram, pushchair, buggy, diaper bag, and maybe even a front carrier.

Clothing

Getting clothing for your new bundle of joy can either be daunting or exciting as there are so many fashion choices to choose from. However when it comes to the baby’s first few months, it is about keeping them warm or cool enough, ease of accessibility like when they are in need of a change, and help with habits like scratching their face (which are what the mittens are for). That isn’t to say that what you choose can’t look cute as well and whatever you choose we are sure that you will find something you like from our vast selection of local baby clothes that you can either have shipped to your door or can purchase from our site and pick them up from the shop closest to you. Here are a few items to add to your list to get you started; grows and vests, cardigans, hats, socks, muslin squares, and mittens.