Are you a minimal mom or a dialed-down dad? When you're expecting, you might be stressing about all the stuff that comes with a new baby if you prefer to keep your space as streamlined as possible. If you only want the essential items for your infant, this list will ensure you have everything you need without cramping your pared-down parenting style.
Organic Multivitamin Drops
Boost your baby's intake of vitamins A through E with Wellements Organic Multivitamin Drops. These drops are made from fruits, veggies, and other plant products; these drops don't contain gluten. They're also free from some of the most common allergens affecting little ones (eight, to be exact). Wellements multivitamin drops are designed to support healthy development starting at two months, with a recommended daily dose of 1 mL (measured with the convenient dropper).
Organic Baby Vitamin D Drops
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends additional vitamin D supplementation for most infants. A single drop of Wellements Organic Baby Vitamin D Drops contains the AAP-recommended daily dose. This is especially important during the chilly summer months when your baby doesn't get much sun exposure. (essential for the transformation of cholesterol to bone-building vitamin D). After checking with your pediatrician, you can give your baby a drop of D daily.
Sleeping Essentials
If you want to drop the adorable decor, go for it. Your baby needs a safe place to sleep, whether you choose a crib with an appropriate mattress, bassinet, or co-sleeper. While second-hand baby items might appeal to your minimalist lifestyle (and reduce environmental waste), an older crib may not meet current safety standards.
Other infant sleep must-haves include:
- Fitted crib sheets
- Blanket sleepers or sleep sacks
- Swaddle blankets, depending on your baby's age
You might also want a baby monitor, depending on the size of your home. Luckily, you'll find plenty of sleek, sophisticated models that won't compromise your minimal aesthetic. As for other nursery furniture, it's a matter of personal preference. Most people like to have a rocker for late-night feedings, but any comfortable seat where you can relax will do the trick. You don't need a special changing table since a simple changing pad on top of a dresser works just fine.
Travel Essentials
You'll need a car seat to get your baby from point A to point B. The most minimalist choice is probably a convertible model, which can safely accommodate infants, toddlers, and sometimes even preschoolers depending on the specific seat. You can also opt for an infant seat that snaps into the stroller. Many models can be used until your baby reaches 35 pounds, so you'll need to swap it out for a larger toddler seat.
Don't forget to pack diapers for your travels. You don't need a dedicated bag, but you will need to carry a purse, backpack, or tote with enough room for diapers, wipes, and a portable changing pad.
Breastfeeding Essentials
Even if you plan to breastfeed exclusively for the first few months, you might want to have a few bottles on hand if you eventually decide to pump. Storage bags will allow you to safely chill and freeze breast milk if you return to work full-time. In that case, you can select either a manual or electric pump (which you might be able to rent through a hospital or birthing center). Don't forget to stock up on nursing pads, bibs, burp cloths (which can even double as bibs), and nipple cream.
Your minimal lifestyle doesn't need to end with a newborn. Eliminate everything but these essentials to keep your little one happy, healthy, and warm--without the clutter.