Stocking up on the non-baby essentials

Well, it’s almost time and baby Will soon be here. No doubt you’ve been over your baby list countless times and you’ve got everything you need on hand.

While you’ve remembered everything on your baby list, there are a few other household items that are worth stocking up on. If you don’t need to worry about running out of essential items during the first weeks you’re at home with your new arrival, you’ll feel less stressed and calmer.

When you come home from hospital it’s nice to concentrate on your family and not have to worry about rushing around and getting things done. You’ll be tired, and this is the time to take things easy and get back into your routine bit by bit. If it is your first baby nothing can prepare you for the disruption in your life. It’s no longer about just you and your partner, hormones change along with your whole perspective on life.

Bathroom Essentials

Make sure you’ve got a couple of weeks supply of loo roll, shampoo, conditioner. Along with shower and bath gel and toothpaste. That way, you don’t have to stress about running to the shops or spending time online when you could be resting. If you would like to stock up on something luxurious for yourself then pop over to Makeup Muddle for some fantastic makeup reviews

Cleaning Materials

Small babies can be extremely messy, so you’ll be using the washing machine more than usual. Stock up on washing powder/gel and conditioner, and buy yourself some stain remover. You might find it comes in useful to get baby grows squeaky clean. You might also need a carpet cleaning product in case you have any spills on the carpet. You’ll be surprised at all the new spillages and stains which will appear on the carpet.So don’t stress that you’ve nothing to clean them away with. Disinfectant wipes and spray will also be useful to wipe down kitchen surfaces and keep germs at bay.

Personal Stuff

Maternity pads, breast pads, creams and hand sanitiser are a good idea to stock up on. Because you’ll be using plenty of these things, plus it will be nice to know that you won’t run out a short while after you get back from the hospital. Also make sure you have a supply of pain relief tablets in case of a headache and check your first aid box has got enough plasters and antiseptics. Along with TCP and/or Savlon are great medicine cupboard staples. Although it’s unlikely you’ll cut your finger if it does happen at least you’ll have what you need indoors.

If you are breastfeeding do consider the consequences of what the drugs do to your milk. Its all about balance so talk to your midwife or GP.

Food and Cooking

To make life easier, why not prepare whole dishes or portions of meat and vegetables and freeze them. All you have to think about then is cooking or warming things through. This is rather than preparing meals from scratch. Lasagnes, stews, curries and casseroles are easy to make and freeze well. Have a look at the BBC website for some ideas. There are also some great mummy blogs with great recipes too.

Tea and Biscuits

Having a new baby to show off means you’ll get plenty of visitors. Stock up on tea, coffee, milk sugar and biscuits. If it’s good friends that are visiting get them to make the tea or coffee. After all you’re still resting and they won’t mind!

Stocking up on items also means your partner can spend more time at home with the family, rather than running around the shops too.