Preparing for Postpartum

I'm sure you have a list - every new mom does. All the things you'll need after your baby is born - a crib, sheets, skirt, stroller, clothing, swaddles, pacifiers, whatever. There is a lot on that list. But there are a few things you may not be thinking about... how do you prepare for life postpartum? Not just what things will you need for a new baby, but what will you need for you? Here are a few questions to help you think about what you might need!

Trust your Instincts

How do you plan to get enough sleep postpartum? This is pretty difficult. Babies don't sleep the way adults do, or the way we expect them to! Check out our newborn sleep options post for ideas.

What is important to you when physically recovering from the birth? No matter what type of birth you have, it's hard work. You're left worn out and a bit bruised, or recovering from major surgery. What do you need? Your mom? A postpartum doula? Help with the housework? Someone to cook for you, or remind you to drink plenty of water? Don't forget to take care of you!

How will you provide nourishment for the family immediately following the birth? Will you have meals frozen? Someone to help? Your partner prepares meals? A service? This is an important one! Don't forget a nice water bottle - you'll need to keep hydrated.

How about help with your household? Laundry, cleaning, errands, shopping? Can your partner handle this? A family member or friend? What can you get set up ahead of time?

What are your sleeping arrangements? Co-bedding? Co-sleeping? Baby sleeps in his/her own room? Be flexible here, and make sure that you know you may change your mind after the birth and it's okay to listen to your instincts!

New babies have some funny hair!

Will you have visitors right away? In the hospital? At home? Or do you prefer time to bond as a family unit? If your partner has time off work, you may wish to simply take time to bond before you see visitors. This one is completely up to you and your personality, but again, prepare to listen to your instincts!

You may be surprised by a lot of things. Day 3 and 4 postpartum can bring on the blues for many moms. It's not unusual for your milk to not "come in" for 5 days - your baby's tummy is tiny and colostrum is plenty. You'll have hormonal ups and downs. You may feel like your hair is falling out (that's normal; you don't lose hair as rapidly during pregnancy). You may change your mind about what you thought you'd do! You'll definitely hear plenty from all sides about parenting... prepare to do your research, stick to your guns, and do what YOU think is right. And come on in to Daisy Baby and hang out - we don't judge, we just want to see you!

How to Put Together the Perfect Baby Gift

Do you have a friend expecting? Coworker? Sister? Daughter? Was the baby already born? Do you know if it's a boy or a girl? Whatever your situation, we've got your back. Let's talk about how to put together the perfect baby gift!

Start with what you know about the baby: What color is the nursery? What is the baby's gender, or name? Does the mom have a collection? Or a favorite band? What's the dad's alma mater?

Add in what you know about you: What's your budget? What do you prefer to get, or not get? Is clothing out? No blankets? Something nobody else will think of? Don't forget big brother or sister!

And... build your gift! Some of our favorites: Swaddling blankets from Aden & Anais, lovies from Angel Dear, personalized blankets from Boogie Baby, wipe cases from Lilicouture, Trumpette socks, Chewbeads for mom and baby!

Here are a few rules: Personalized is always a hit. Give something the parents will love - not just something you like. Have fun!!

The Cost of a Nursery - Young America

One of the concerns when shopping for a nursery is - what will it cost me? At Daisy Baby we can help you create your nursery on any budget - shoestring to anything goes.

One of our favorite companies is Stanley's Young America. They create very customizable, beautiful, sturdy furniture right here in the USA - just about 500 miles from here, actually. So... let's create a basic nursery, starting with Young America!

Young America MyHaven Tribute Crib - $849
Young America MyHaven Single Dresser - $949

Surya Wool Rug (image is Athena 5x8) - $440

Oopsy Daisy Personalized Art - $99

Two extra sheets from Crib Critters - total $37

Annette Tatum Wave Castle 3 piece set - $280

Four Seasons Sylvie Slipcovered Chair - $1000 (depends on options)

(In image, these start at top left and go clockwise)

Grand Total for 3 main furniture items, linens, rug, art (yes, there is so much more you can do! but I did say basic, right?) is $3654. Please remember to check out future Cost of a Nursery features for various brands and different ideas! 

What brands would you like to see? What cost levels?