Preparing for a New Baby
The arrival of a new baby is a time for celebration, but the mountains of advice that accompany the event can create confusion amidst your joy. Here are some of our favorite simple tips that cover the very basic basics!
Baby Basics Checklist
Everything you need, without questionable ingredients to keep you up at night.
Nesting Necessities |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
 |
Method Baby Laundry Detergent, Sweet PeaPower through laundry with a gentle formula |
 |
Whole Foods Market™ All Purpose Cleaner CitrusKeep surfaces squeaky clean |
 |
365 Everyday Value® Baby Laundry Detergent With Stain-Fighting EnzymesA fragrance free formula for the whole family |
 |
365 Everyday Value® Fruit & Vegetable Wash Natural Lemon ScentRinse off dirt with our nontoxic and biodegradable formula |
Diaper Bag Essentials |
|
|---|---|
 |
365 Everyday Value® WipesCleanse and soothe with aloe vera and vitamin E |
 |
365 Everyday Value® DiapersConvenience without chlorine, latex or artificial scent |
Bath and Body |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
 |
Peter Rabbit Baby Garden Fresh Shampoo and WashGentle organic botanicals for the bath |
Every Day Shea Conditioner and DeTangler for Babies & UpTame tangles with fair trade shea butter |
|
 |
Weleda Calendula Baby LotionSoothe cranky skin with calendula |
 |
Badger Sunscreen Baby SPF 30+Broad spectrum protection without chemical sunscreens |
Bottles |
|
|---|---|
 |
Life Factory Glass Baby BottleA durable bottle without BPA or phthalates |
Breastfeeding and Supplements
Nurture the body that nourishes the baby with a well-balanced diet and well-chosen supplements.
-
Prenatal multivitamins (even after delivery) provide folic acid and other essential nutrients.
-
Calcium helps rebuild maternal bone mass, which may diminish during pregnancy and nursing. (Source: NIH)
For more resources on breastfeeding, consult the American Academy of Pediatrics.
DHA in Every Way
Breast milk can be a naturally rich source of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an essential fatty acid that supports baby’s developing brain and eyes.
-
Studies suggest that DHA supplements for Mom can support healthy mood and significantly increase the levels of DHA in breast milk. We suggest: Nordic Naturals DHA Strawberry
-
When breastfeeding isn’t possible, choose formula supplemented with DHA. We suggest: Earth’s Best Organic Sensitivity Infant Formula with DHA & ARA
Aromatherapy Tips
Create comforting rituals with 100% pure essential oils.
-
For soothing massage, select plant-based carrier oils such as sweet almond or jojoba.
-
Dissolve a few drops of essential oil in unscented oil or lotion. Do not apply essential oils directly to baby’s skin.
-
Choose gentle essential oils such as rose and geranium.
-
For a relaxing bath, add 2 drops rose essential oil and 1 drop Roman chamomile essential oil.
