Satisfying the big appetite of your littlest family member.
Feeding your baby. It's a relatively simple concept but for many, feeding and weaning can present unexpected challenges which can be both emotional (thanks hormones) and stressful! We've put together our top tips for all things baby feeding to help you digest this important task a little bit more easily.
Feeding
Breastfeeding
If you've decided to breastfeed, there is some good news. You already have some of the necessary equipment! However, you might find the following helpful on your feeding journey.
Breast Pads
Leaking! Yes, that's right many breastfeeding women will experience leaking during and between feeds. A good quality breast pad will discreetly slip inside your bra to soak up any potential spills.
Breast Pumps
Depending on when you're returning to work or if you need someone else to feed baby, expressing a bottle using a good quality breast pump is essential.
Milk Storage Bags
There is nothing express about expressing! Having the correct storage items will assist you to make use of every drop. Freezer bags for breastmilk are ideal, they take up less space than bottles and are easy to label and defrost when required.
Formula or Breast Feeding
Bottles
From newborn to approximately 4 months, babies can only swallow in limited quantities so look for teats with the smallest flow to begin with (usually 1). Whilst you and your baby establish your bottle feeding routine, it's a savvy move to get a couple of different brands of bottle in order to find which type your baby prefers.
Sterilizing equipment
For any type of bottle feeding it's recommended to sterilize baby's bottle before each use. This can easily be done in a microwave using a sterilizing bag. They are quick, convenient and easy to use.
Bottle warmer
Gently warm milk for baby at controlled temperatures. Bottle warmers heat the bottle slowly as not to overheat it.
TIP: Terry towelling nappies make for ideal burp/spill cloths. They are affordable, a great size, easy to wash and gentle on baby.
Weaning
Learning to Eat
Somewhere between 5-7 months, you may find your baby becomes interested in food. When your little one can comfortably sit with their neck upright and they demonstrate an interest in food, (such as grabbing at food from your hand or watching you closely as you eat) your baby may be ready for solids. This can be an exciting (and messy) time.
High Chair
These novice eaters tend to take their time, so get them comfortable and safely restrained in a feeding chair or high chair.
Bibs
Smock style bibs or over-the-head bibs are ideal for full coverage and will help prevent extra laundry.
Weaning Spoons
These spoons are helpful as they are ergonomically designed to help baby transition from drinking and swallowing, to chewing and swallowing
Baby Food Processer
Steam and puree at the same time with these ingenious appliances. Perfectly practical and time-saving for food preparation, ensuring maximum nutrition for your baby with a minimum of fuss for you.
Food Storage
Tiny containers will likely become a big part of your cupboards along with ice-cube style trays, perfect for storing and freezing pureed baby food, ready to eat at a moment's notice!
TIP: Putting a splatter mat under the high chair can save your carpets and cleaning time.
