Whether we, as parents like it or not (or have the strength for it or not) – everything that touches the baby, especially in the first few months must be as clean as possible. When it comes to most of the equipment you will be using, like baby bottles, you will find that it to be sterilized (freed from bacteria) before each use. Not so long ago, our parents and their parents had to resort to boiling water for that purpose. Thankfully, in this day and age, we can just buy a baby bottle steriliser.
Bottle Sterilizers
Sure, you can go through the whole process of breastfeeding and formula feeding without investing in any additional gadgets. What I found, however, is that whatever I ended up buying or even borrowing, just ‘’to try out’’, I soon could not live without. It made my life so much easier to own a baby bottle sterilizer, which is why I have created a list of my recommendations for you, in case you are dwelling about purchasing one.
Baby Sterilisers Are Not Magic Wands
I’m sorry if my recommendation didn’t offer a magic trick solution to sterilising baby bottles – sure, the process still takes some time and it’s not like they are coming out with self-sterilising bottles anytime soon, but these gadgets do help a lot! How do you sterilise your bottles? Do any of you boil the bottles in the water? And if so, why? Let me know in the comments!
Hung above the baby cot, the mobile is a valuable companion that will distract your baby and sooth them. It’s often the first toy they will get familiar with. In addition to arousing your baby’s curiosity, it will also help develop it’s dexterity and imagination.
The Best Baby Mobiles to buy
Our top pick: Tiny Love Take-Along Mobile
The cute mobile: Nuby Little Fox Musical Cot Mobile
The best boy cot mobile: Mothercare on The Road Mobile
Ultimate Girly Mobile toys: Tiny Love Soothe ‘n Groove Princess Tales
Travel Mobile toys: Tiny Love Mobile Travel Princess
Another great baby mobile: Fisher-Price Sweet Butterfly Dreams
Becoming a parent of multiples is wonderful, overwhelming and takes LOTS of patience and organisation. The moments that you spend with your twins while feeding will probably be some of the most peaceful times of your day.
A feeding pillow is one of the most useful and long-lasting products that you will buy. It will be utilised during pregnancy as a sleep and comfort aid. You’ll find it invaluable for feeds, play times and as a cosy place to gaze at your beautiful babies.
Our shopping guide to the best feeding pillows for twins
The Harmony and Twin Z pillows are very popular nursing cushions in the US unfortunately they are not available in the UK. After much testing, recommendations and reading breastfeeding pillow reviews we’ve created a guide to the best support, bottle and breastfeeding pillows for you and your gorgeous twins.
What to consider when buying a twin breastfeeding pillow
An excellent twin feeding cushion should have the following qualities:
It needs to be big enough for two growing babies and for you. A v-shaped pillow with wide ‘sides’ or a W-shaped twin specific cushion are both perfect options.
Make sure it comes with a removable, washable cover. If it doesn’t, make sure you can buy or make one. Leaking breastmilk, spilt formula, nappy explosions and frequent spit ups will mean your breast feeding cushion will need a ridiculous amount of washing.
Ensure the fabric is soft, smooth and suitable for delicate baby and boob skin. Brushed 100% cotton would be perfect.
Think about the level of support you and the babies will need. Breast feeding pillows with anti-sag filling and back support are vital. You need to be comfy so that you can concentrate on enjoying real moments of serenity with your little ones.
Accessories you might need when feeding twins
Feeding twins is time intensive, especially when they are tiny. We’ve picked out a few useful products that will make you life easier.
Breast feeding pillow cover
It’s a good idea to buy an extra cover for your pillow. Most products will come with a removable, machine washable cover which is great. However, an extra cover will be a life saver if you need to feed while the cover is washing and drying.
Gentle washing powder/liquid
If you’re looking for a gentle detergent for your baby clothes, we’ve dedicated an entire article on thebest washing powder for babies.
Breast feeding cover up
A nursing pillow is a great accessory to avoid back pains wether you chose to breastfeed or bottle feed. It’s even more important when you have to do the job twice.
I hope our little guide of the best bottle and breastfeeding pillows have helped you make your choice. Don’t hesitate to leave a comment if you have any questions.
If you have twins you also may be interested in our selections of the best double prams.
A moses basket is very practical as a first bed that you can move around in your house. It’s super cute and snuggle your baby.
But let’s not kid ourselves, it won’t last long. Usually after 4-5 month you will probably transition your baby to a bigger crib or a different chair. So I understand you wouldn’t want to spend too much on one.
To help you find the one that will fit your space and your little one we’ve selected our favorite moses baskets under £50.
The best cheap moses baskets in the UK
The best value moses basket
I particularly like the Kinder Valley Moses Baskets. Cute and affordable, they are beautiful first beds for your baby from birth up to 3-4 months.
The moses basket includes a mattress and coordinating coverlet, with an adjustable hood to keep baby shaded and comfortable during sleep times. They have been designed in neutral shades with very cute animal design.
You can buy the stands here:
Cheap grey moses basket
The cheapest moses basket with stand combo
The foldable moses basket on a budget
Other options for a cheap moses basket
Can you buy a second hand moses basket?
There are lots of used moses baskets on eBay or Facebook. But is it safe to buy one that has been used before? Mostly yes. The moses basket itself is ok, so are the bed sheet once you wash them. What you need to be careful of is the mattress.
Second hand mattresses have been link to an increased risk of SIDS. It all depends on how the mattress was stored and what it was exposed to. Here are the recommendation form the Lullaby Trust UK
To help reduce this risk, if you are using a second-hand mattress make sure the mattress you choose was previously completely protected by a waterproof cover, with no rips or tears and is in good condition. The mattress should also still be firm and flat to keep your baby sleeping safely.
If you want to be on the safe side, you’d rather buy a new mattress which is between £15 and £30. So at the end of the day even if you buy a second hand moses basket it might cost you more than you expect once you purchase the new mattress.
Can I use the carrycot from the pram?
Your baby already uses the carrycot to sleep when you’re out and about, so why not use it inside the house.
For the first few weeks the carry cot might be a bit big for your baby and they may miss the snuggling feeling that they would get from a moses basket. But the carrycot is a suitable alternative to a moses basket. If your pram comes with one it will spare you the cost of buying a dedicated basket or bassinet.
However make sure to check with your pram manufacturer to see if you will need to buy a separate mattress for night-time sleeping. The mattress must be firm enough to support your sleeping baby.
Which one is your favourite? We’d love for you to share photos of your Moses basket in the comment. I can’t wait to see the mix and matches of baskets and sheets.
While it’s true you will only use one for a few months, it’s such a cute practical item, that I think is worth the investment. And when your baby grow up you can transition them into a bigger cot. We actually have an article to help you choose the best cot for your baby.
A nappy disposal system may seem like an unnecessary luxury. However, once baby has arrived, you’ll be knee deep in stinky nappies, constantly running to the outside bin and wondering how on earth your delightful angel produces that much poo!
Nappy bins will save your legs, keep your home smelling fresh and keep a curious toddler away from trouble.
So, whether you need a disposable nappy bin or simple bucket for environmentally friendly washables this is the guide for you!
Best Nappy Disposal System
Looking for the best nappy bin for your family and home? Based on personal experience and nappy disposal system reviews here’s our suggestions of what could be the perfect baby nappy bin for you.
What extras can you buy for your nappy disposal bin?
Depending on the baby nappy bin or diaper genie you choose there will be ‘extras’ to consider. Check the prices and ease of purchase of the following nappy bin refills before making your decision.
Nappy bin bags – a traditional bin bag to fit your nappy bin but with fragrance added.
Odour and germ control nappy bin liners – to fit the nappy system you choose but with anti-bacterial properties and fragrance added.
Nappy bin cassettes/ Nappy bin cartridges – these will fit into your nappy disposal unit and either seal each individual nappy or act as a multi-layered odour and germ barrier.
Learning that you are expecting twins can be a huge shock. It’s undeniably a joy and a blessing to be the parent of multiples, but it is also a drain on your budget, energy and organisational skills.
The best prams for twins are the ones which suit your family, maximum spend and lifestyle. There’s lots of choice and it’s difficult to know where to begin.
Some twin prams suitable from birth are expensive but are they value for money? The best pushchair for twins could be the luxury one with snuggly carry cots or it might be the lightweight stroller that folds up easily into your car.
So, before you choose your new-born twin prams, grab a cup of herbal tea and read our comprehensive guide to how to choose your twin pushchair and our best buys.
Best tandem pram – one in front the other
Best twin pram -side by side
Best ‘from birth’ twin pushchair
Best cheap Twin Strollers
Cheap twin prams are often a vital purchase when you are expecting multiples. There’s so much to buy! It doesn’t mean you won’t find some great cheaper options.
Things to consider when choosing a double pram
Age of the children
Double prams for new-born twins will recline flat and/or come with a carry cot. A double buggy for older babies will only have one or two back positions.
Terrain
Some twin pushchairs will navigate beautifully on country paths but feel heavy and hard to handle in city centre shops. Twin baby prams are an investment so not many new parents can afford to buy more than one. Make your decision based on where you will use your twin pram the most.
Your house
Do you have the space for storage? Double prams from birth can take up A LOT of room in your home.
Your car
Boot space, car seats and how often you use your car all need consideration. A twin baby pushchair that would be easy to transport is possible, they are available if you do your research.
Budget and value
Twin prams for new-borns can cost anywhere from £99 – £2500. The range is huge and ‘building’ a travel system is complicated. Start shopping early so you have time to suss it all out.
Features to look for in a double pushchair
Carry cots
A twin carrycot pram is the best option for new babies as they are cosy and flat.
Be aware that double pram from birth often doesn’t come with the carry cot included.
Travel system with car seat
The makers of travel systems for twins suitable from birth will offer the chance to buy adaptors for a range of car seats. Twin pushchairs from birth with car seat included are rare so keep that in mind when working out the total price.
Wheels
A baby born twin pram needs swivel wheels at the front and bigger fixed wheel at the back, those are essentials. Size and material choice will depend on the terrain.
Weight
The best pram for new-born twins is one which can be lifted into cars, onto buses and up kerbs without a struggle.
Twin buggies for new-born and toddler ages will be lighter than travel systems.
Comfort
Twin buggies from birth need to be soft, padded and suitable for the age of the babies.
A new-born twin pram should have a baby nest, rain cover and sunshade.
Forward or parent facing
A parent facing double pushchair offers maximum comfort and reassurance for you and baby. Some side by side twin pram systems have useful, easily reversible seats.
As glorious and empowering as motherhood is, having a baby takes a huge toll on a woman’s body. Your incredibly clever and magical self has grown a baby, birthed them and is now feeding it. You are truly amazing!
Rest, recovery and getting a bamboozled brain around the massive life change should be the priorities over ‘getting back in shape’. However, exercise is a wonderful balm for the soul and mind and a trip to the gym or run may help you feel more like yourself.
Finding a nursing sports bra that fits well, is supportive and feels comfy is the first step to successfully combining breastfeeding and training.
A maternity sports bra in your new, no doubt bigger, cup size could work. However, consider a specific breastfeeding sports bra so that it’s easy to pop your babe on the boob as soon as you get home or pick them up from the gym creche.
The best nursing bra for sport – a shopping guide
It’s a great idea to shop for a bra based on the sports that you’re planning to do. The best maternity bra for CrossFit or running will differ to the best maternity bras for Yoga and Pilates.
Make sure you use measuring and ‘what’s a good fit?’ guides to make sure you buy the sports nursing bra that is perfect for you.
It’s best to measure for and buy your sports bra once breast feeding has been established. Your breast size and shape may change a lot in the first few weeks after birth.
She fit bra is one of the leaders in maternity sports bra, unfortunately it’s almost out of stock across the UK. It’s almost impossible to find one due to a ‘supply and demand’ issue. So we’ve selected here the best alternatives to the Shefit bras available in the UK.
What is a breastfeeding bra and what features to look for?
Hopefully you’ve managed to find some comfy, pretty and supportive nursing bras that have seen you faithfully through your pregnancy. The best nursing bras are designed with ease, access and support as a focus.
The best breast-feeding bras will have the following features:
A clasp on each side to drop the cup so baby can feed without restriction.
Wide supportive straps.
Straps to hold the bra secure while the cup is dropped.
Adjustability in the shoulder straps and back strap to allow for changes in breast size during the breast-feeding journey and as milk supply ebbs and flows.
Soft fabric with some stretch. Preferably a quick drying, moisture wicking cotton in case of leaking.
No wires at all or flexi-wires that won’t dig in.
A pocket or padding in which to tuck a breast pad.
What size of nursing bra should I buy?
Once your tiny bundle of love has arrived and breastfeeding has begun most new Mums will find they have much bigger boobs. An increase of two cups sizes is common.
It’s important to get fitted properly for a supportive nursing bra by a specialist in shops such as John Lewis, Debenhams or Marks & Spencer.
There are complex factors to consider including both the increase in boob size and shape and the decrease in band size as you lose pregnancy weight.
For a guide to at home measuring and how a correctly fitting bra should look and feel follow this link.
How is a breast-feeding sports bra different?
Running while breastfeeding is perfectly fine if you’ve fully recovered from the birth and you’re wearing a super supportive maternity bra or nursing bra.
Buying a specific bra for sports while nursing will make sure your boobs stay bounce and pain free and here’s why:
Extra wide straps with lots of hooks and eyes.
A design to prevent bounce.
Padded shoulder straps.
Fabric designed to be supportive, moisture wicking and quick drying.
Full coverage of the breast.
A clasp on each side with which to drop the cup for unrestricted feeding.
As a new Mum we have so many things to think about, let alone breast pads and leaking boobs! Worst nightmare right? It does not have to be. Do not worry Mummy, we have you covered.
One of the most commonly asked questions expectant mothers ask about breastfeeding is whether they will need maternity breast pads. In this article, I will guide you through my recommendations of the best nursing pads I found.
Best Breast Pads to avoid the leaks
You would think that a breast pad is a fairly easy product to choose but did you know there are so many different types? Five in fact. It is a matter of personal preference which one you opt for. You may have to experiment with a few in the beginning. Let us keep things simple for now. The first being:
The best reusable nursing pads
Best disposable nursing pads
Homemade breast pads
If you are feeling creative you can make your own homemade breast pads.
Admittedly this would be very time consuming but you could make them ready for baby’s arrival.
You can also tailor them to your taste and needs. You can choose which type of material to use whether that be bamboo or cotton. You can even have a fancy pattern or keep things plain.
Pros:
Choose your own material
Unique
Cost effective
Eco friendly
Easy to follow instructions on how to make
Con:
Time consuming
A step by step guide on how to make homemade breast pads can be found here.
Do you need nursing pads?
What is a breast pad?
A breast pad is a removable liner which is placed inside a bra to absorb leaking breast milk. It can also help prevent staining your clothes. Breast pads need to be changed frequently to prevent infections from developing.
Do you need it? It’s indispensable for me. As an active mum I don’t want to always be peeking at my boobs to make tsure they haven’t leaked.
Accident will happen, you won’t be able to control it or sometimes even feel it and the last thing you want is to end up with a stain on your shirt.
Nursing pads will be your best friends to avoid awkward milk accidents.
Help with breastfeeding
So you have established that you want to breastfeed but somehow it is not quite as simple as that. There is all the paraphernalia that accompanies it like nursing bras, breast feeding pillows, expressing machines and nursing pads! Where do you start?
I remember when I was pregnant with my son I had an overwhelming desire to breastfeed him. Mother’s instinct I guess. We only had a short breastfeeding journey but I cherish the short few months in which I was able to. I also feel like I learnt a lot and would be fully prepared if baby number two came along in the future.
There are so many resources available to help prepare you for your breastfeeding journey. Research your local antenatal classes. Here you will learn positioning techniques, attachment as well as common problems faced and how to overcome them. You will also meet other Mums who will be of great support to you.
Other sources of help include your GP, midwife and health visitor. Never be afraid to reach out to someone whether that be a friend or a family member. Discuss your desires, fears and or concerns.
Each woman’s journey is very different and unique. There will be a lot of learning and experimentation until you feel settled and comfortable in a routine that suits you and your baby.
Breastfeeding is a skill and a skill has to be learned. It will take time, hard work and perseverance but the rewards will far outweigh any difficulty.
Wrapping up
As you can see, the world of breast pads can not only be daunting but confusing too! How do you know which one is best? With a little bit of research and experimentation you will find the one that best suits your needs. Will you be the Mum who will lovingly stitch her own handmade breast pads or will you be ditching the creativity for convenience and opting for the disposables? Either way, whatever breast pad you choose you can rest assured that you will not be that Mum wondering why people are staring at her breasts.
Let us take one thing off your mind, breast pads.Did you know there are 5 different types of breast pads on the market?. Find out which option best suits your breastfeeding journey.
Baby bath towels are actually quite important to get right. They need to be made of softest materials (to keep the baby’s skin safe from harsh rubbing). I recommend getting those with a hoodie as it helps prevent any excess drops of water from annoying your baby’s face, plus they help the hair dry faster.
And they’re cute, too! Get a whole set or at least two-three of them, to have enough to wash them and change them frequently.
The sleeping bag is the most secure and comfortable way to sleep baby. Indeed blankets, sheets, pillows, soft toys are prohibited in the bed of a baby until 2 years old, as your baby may end up underneath and suffocate.
A sleep bag, besides its practical and functional side, presents the enormous advantage for your child to ensure a constant body temperature throughout the night, ideal so that your little angel does not sweat during his sleep and does not wake up, without risk of suffocation.
There are different types of sleeping bags, different togs and different sizes. While the size is easy to figure out as it is the age of your baby, the tog is less intuitive.
We’re reviewing here the best 1.5 tog sleeping bags, which are perfect for Spring and Summer
The best 1.5 tog sleeping bags for baby
Finding a 1.5 tog sleep bag is actually pretty difficult. They are not easy to find and often out of stock. We’ve found the best ones available to purchase today.
1.5 tog baby sleeping bags offering all sizes till 36 months
1.5 tog sleep bags from 6 to 12 months
1.5 tog baby sleep bags from 0 to 6 months
When to use: 1.5 tog baby sleeping bag temperature guide
1.5 togs is on the light sse in terms of thickness. It is ideal for warm spring days and summer days.
The recommended room temperature to use a 1.5 tog sleeping bag is between 20 and 24°C
What to wear under a 1.5 tog sleeping bag
What to wear under a sleeping bag is a recurring question. It all depends on the temperature of the room.
Since this 1.5 tog sleeping bags are for warm days, the best is to have our baby wearing a body inside the 1.5 tog sleeping bag. If your room is colder pajamas with sleeves are advised.
I hope this article helped you find the perfect 1.5 tog sleep bag for your baby. If you’re looking for more information about different togs headover our ultimate baby sleeping bag guide.
