New to parenthood? Find out how to navigate the early days with our top tips and product picks, from tried-and-trusted nappies to painless breast pumps
This article is sponsored by Aveeno, Pregnacare, Bibs, Momcozy, HiPP Organic & Pampers
Welcoming a tiny new life into the world is an incredible experience for new parents. It’s a time filled with excitement, love, and, let’s be honest, some nerves. As you adapt to your little bundle of joy there are many changes to navigate through, from physical and mental shifts to lifestyle and routine adjustments.
It’s completely normal not to know what to expect – after all, this is your first time too – but a little planning, preparation, and practical guidance goes long way when it comes to preventing overwhelm and helping you to enjoy all the wonderful moments that your new baby will bring. Embarking on the journey of parenthood is a significant step for anyone, but at Boots, we’re here with you every step of the way. Read on to discover some essential tips that can make a world of difference and help you get off on the right foot in those first few weeks.
Get to grips with the basics
Preparation is key, and understanding the basics of newborn care can give you confidence. Consider attending antenatal classes to learn about childbirth, breastfeeding, and baby care. The NHS website is a treasure trove of reliable information on everything from pregnancy to parenting. Remember, even seasoned parents need assistance or a second opinion from time-to-time, so don’t hesitate to reach out for help when you need it. Healthcare professionals, family or friends can all provide invaluable support when you need it most.
Practice self-care for new parents
Taking care of yourself is crucial for taking care of your baby, so it’s vital that you make time for self-care, even in small ways. For new mums, essential toiletries like nipple creams can provide much-needed relief. Both parents can benefit from a daily multivitamin and soothing pillow sprays to help you drift off to sleep after long nights.
Be kind to yourself
Parenthood is a learning curve for everyone, and it’s important to be gentle with yourself. With so much to learn and do (often without very much sleep), it’s natural to feel overwhelmed at times. There will be days when things just don’t go to plan – and that’s completely normal. Celebrate small wins and remind yourself every day that you’re doing your best. If you do feel like you need extra support, reach out to your GP, friends or family.
Prepare ahead where possible
While it’s not always possible to be fully prepared, there are a few things you can do to make those precious first days and weeks at home less stressful, leaving you to enjoy resting, recovering and bonding with your little one. Consider freezing meals ahead of time to save time and ensure you always have a stock of nutritious food on hand. Buy some new baby essentials like nappies, wipes, and baby clothes to ensure you’re ready for those first few weeks.
Ready to stock up on some more must-have items to look after your little one? Scroll down for our top product picks to make your newborn experience a little bit easier.
Best for bathtime bubbles
Try: Aveeno Baby Hair & Body Wash
• Size: 400ml
• Suitable for newborn & sensitive skin
• Free from soap & dyes
• Tear-free & pH-balanced
Bathtime can be a wonderfully bonding experience for you and baby, and warm water can help to soothe and relax your little one ready for sleep. Aveeno Baby Daily Care Hair and Body Wash is specially formulated with natural oat extract to gently cleanse and nourish your baby's delicate skin from top to toe, without leaving it dry. It also helps preserve their skin's protective barrier and microbiome, leaving your baby's hair and skin feeling soft, smooth and moisturised.
Best for protecting baby’s sensitive skin
Try: Pampers Premium Protection New Baby Size 1
• Size: 50 nappies
Newborn babies need a lot of nappy changes, so choosing a trusted brand is key to keeping your little one comfortable, dry and happy. Enter: Pampers Premium Protection New Baby Size 1 nappies. They feature a new Stop & Protect pocket to prevent leaks at the back, while soft, stretchy wings fit comfortably over the tummy, and double leg cuffs allow your baby to move freely.
Best for soothing crying babies
Try: BIBS Try-It Collection Ivory
• Size: 4 pack
• BPA-free
• Made from natural rubber latex or food-grade silicone
• 1 x Colour Pacifier (round nipple, natural rubber latex)
• 1 x Supreme Pacifier (symmetrical nipple, silicone)
• 1 x Couture Pacifier (anatomical nipple, natural rubber latex)
• 1 x De Lux Pacifier (round nipple, silicone)
All babies are different, so it can take some trial and error before you find the perfect soother. Luckily, the BIBS Try-It Collection offers plenty of variety, with four different shields and three different nipple shapes, so you and baby can experiment and choose the best fit together.
Best for painless pumping
Try: Momcozy M5 Wearable Double Electric Breast Pump
• Portable & lightweight
• Nine adjustable levels & three modes
• Five sizes to choose from
For breastfeeding mothers, the Momcozy M5 Wearable Double Electric Breast Pump is a game-changer. This innovative pump is designed for convenience and efficiency, allowing you to pump hands-free and on-the-go. It’s quiet, discreet and comfortable, with a precisely sloped pump angle designed to mimic a baby’s mouth to minimise pain and encourage letdown. Whether you’re at home or out and about, this pump makes expressing milk a hassle-free experience, giving you more time to enjoy with your baby and go about your day.
Best for breastfeeding mums
Try: Vitabiotics Pregnacare Breast-Feeding Supplements
• Expert nutritional care for after pregnancy
• Size: 28 day supply
• From the UK's No1 pregnancy supplement brand*
If you’re breastfeeding, it’s important to make sure you and baby get all the essential vitamins and minerals that are needed for good health. Vitabiotics Pregnacare Breast-Feeding tablets offer a comprehensive formula to support all your nutritional needs for the 12 months after birth, from calcium and magnesium to vitamins K and D. Each pack also includes high-quality omega-3 capsules containing DHA**, which contributes to the normal development of your baby’s brain and eyes.
Best for hungry babies
Try: HiPP Organic 2 Follow On Baby Milk Powder from 6 Months
• Size: 800g
• Suitable from six to 12 months
• Easy to make up
As your baby grows, their nutritional needs change. HiPP Organic Follow On Milk is expertly formulated to complement a varied weaning diet from six to 12 months, to support your baby’s growth and development. Made from high-quality organic ingredients, it contains essential nutrients, including vitamins C and D, plus iron, which helps to support normal immune system development.
