The Ultimate Survival List for Moms: Must-Have Home and Baby Gear!
Becoming a mother was both thrilling and challenging. The joy of holding my baby was unmatched, but the responsibility felt overwhelming. Through sleepless nights and diaper changes, I found that the right home and baby essentials were crucial. This guide shares my personal journey with the invaluable items that eased my early motherhood experience. Let’s go!
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Did you know
I had this draft in my blog for awhile now. It’s been sitting in the draft section since my eldest was still 3 years old. Now, I have another baby! It clearly shows how busy it gets when you have kids. It’s time to dust off some cobwebs and bring this post to life. I hope this post brings some joy and a little help in your daily struggles with this thing called Motherhood. This post is specifically for mothers who are taking care of their babies alone. I feel you and I see you! You’re going to be ok. Give me a smile, this too shall pass.
How’s it going
I took care of my babies from day one till now. One is four years old and the other is 6 months old. I’m a work-from-home mom and blessed to have a supportive and helpful husband. Being a mom is not as easy as most mothers would say; it even gets challenging when you don’t have much support from anyone. My husband and I worked as a team, and I have a few gadgets that made life easier for me and some home and kitchen essentials that support my day-to-day. I also invested in baby must-haves that work for me and my babies to have a peaceful and happy home. I believe that it takes a village to raise a child. This is my village, not in human form, but as what they said when it comes to having kids, “whatever works for you, then be it.”
Home Essentials for a Mother’s Sanity
They said having an organized home with less clutter is good for anyone’s mental health. A clean home is of utmost importance for mothers, as we can easily get overwhelmed with household chores and motherhood duties.
1. Roomba to Clean the Floors
I got myself a Roomba, I named him “Boggie”, and he’s also my best friend. I never have to worry about cleaning the floor. This means one household chore off the list. That means more time to do other important tasks.
It has its problems, like it can’t really detect if it misses a spot, but nevertheless, it has kept our floors clean and tidy for more than two years, and I’m satisfied with that. Waking up without worrying about food crumbs of the blueberry bar on the floor and rice under the dining table has put my mind at ease. If someone’s visiting all of a sudden, I have my Roomba to take care of the floor while I can do something else in the kitchen or run some errands.
Home Essentials for a Mother’s Sanity
They said having an organized home with less clutter is good for anyone’s mental health. A clean home is of utmost importance for mothers, as we can easily get overwhelmed with household chores and motherhood duties.
Say "Hello" to my bestfriend for 6 years now and still counting: iRobot Vacuum Cleaner
I got myself a Roomba, I named him “Boggie”, and he’s also my best friend. I never have to worry about cleaning the floor. This means one household chore off the list. That means more time to do other important tasks.
It has its problems, like it can’t really detect if it misses a spot, but nevertheless, it has kept our floors clean and tidy for more than two years, and I’m satisfied with that. Waking up without worrying about food crumbs of the blueberry bar on the floor and rice under the dining table has put my mind at ease. If someone’s visiting all of a sudden, I have my Roomba to take care of the floor while I can do something else in the kitchen or run some errands.
Favorite Secret
If we’re out on a hike, he makes sure that we come home with a clean floor. Bonus points as it also entertains my baby, which is great as that gives me time to relax on the couch as I watch his innocent face play with my best friend, but putting dinosaurs on its back and rubber duckies.
I have two kids now, which means I needed to upgrade to a more efficient Roomba, this time with a dust tower that can automatically empty its bin - I call the new guy "Universe" and it’s been an amazing experience!
2. Instant Pot for Quick Meals
Ever since having a baby, I don’t have the luxury to take my time in the kitchen; I’m not even good at cooking. So getting myself a food ninja was the best investment I have made for the kitchen. I feel like I’m feeding myself and my family healthier meals. I’m using less oil now when cooking our chicken drumsticks, egg rolls, nuggets, and so much more. Also, cooking rice has never been this easy as it only takes 5 minutes, and the texture is better, it’s softer and tastier. I’ve never been good at cooking, so having a helping hand in the kitchen that makes a delicious meal is of vital importance to me.
I have two kids now, which means I needed to upgrade to a more efficient Roomba, this time with a dust tower that can automatically empty its bin - I call the new guy "Universe" and it’s been an amazing experience!
Getting an Instant Pot has been a game-changer for me, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to share my favorite recipes with you. Read more: Instant Pot Easy Recipes for Beginners
Ever since having a baby, I don’t have the luxury to take my time in the kitchen; I’m not even good at cooking. So getting myself a food ninja was the best investment I have made for the kitchen. I feel like I’m feeding myself and my family healthier meals. I’m using less oil now when cooking our chicken drumsticks, egg rolls, nuggets, and so much more. Also, cooking rice has never been this easy as it only takes 5 minutes, and the texture is better, it’s softer and tastier. I’ve never been good at cooking, so having a helping hand in the kitchen that makes a delicious meal is of vital importance to me.
3. Meal Preparation is Crucial
To simplify things, we set aside one day each week for meal prep. When I'm by myself, I only need to prepare breakfast, lunch, or brunch, and then I can simply reheat dinner. This method works great for us, avoiding the need for takeout or dining out, and helps us eat healthy meals.
We use Glass Containers for Meal Preparation because they're easy to clean, don't retain odors, and are clear so we can see what's inside. They're also durable enough for freezing. We bought a set from Amazon, which includes smaller ones for my husband’s snacks or lunches.
4. Coffee Maker: Essential for Staying Awake!
Having a Coffee Maker with my Favorite Coffee is key to staying energized! It's easy to use and helps me keep going, especially when taking care of two kids is exhausting. One clings to you like a koala, while the other holds onto your leg, eager for more playtime. You definitely need all the support you can get!
5. Smoothie Blender: A Health Game Changer
During my challenging second pregnancy, I depended on smoothies to boost my milk production, stay hydrated, and alleviate bowel issues.
I absolutely love this Blender! Its powerful motor is capable of processing a variety of fruits and vegetables, including chia seeds and hemp. This results in smoothies that have a juice-like consistency, which I appreciate, as I prefer mine to be more liquid for easy drinking. Additionally, this blender is lightweight and easy to clean, which was a relief for my wrist, as I was dealing with pain at the time.
There’s going to be a lot of laundry, and it will keep coming. When I got myself a beautiful laundry hamper, the thought of washing a lot of baby clothes was less of a burden, as I’m happy to see my pretty laundry hamper every time I drop off his clothes. What I love about my laundry hamper is that it hides the mess and keeps the laundry area nice and clean, also the size is perfect as it reminds me to wash my baby's clothes when it’s almost full. It helps me in some way to get things done. I also have another 1-section Laundry Hamper because I can't get enough of this beauty!
7. Aesthetic Toy Box Organizer
The less mess you see, the more you feel empowered, and it makes you feel you’re in control. I organize most of my babies' things and try to keep them aesthetically pleasing to my eyes. As this helps my brain think, I got it all together. I have a big, durable toy box to keep our living room tidy. This even helps my little one get used to cleaning up. I also like that it’s a good reminder for me to donate his toys or limit the toys we have if his toy box gets full.
Postpartum Must-Haves for a Happy Mother
Postpartum is not easy; sleep deprivation, the need to feed instantly, and don't even let me start talking about pain, because it is such a pain. We need something to make us feel loved, and our bodies need some TLC after labor. Here are the things that made me feel a little bit whole again and lifted my spirits up after going through such pain.
The less mess you see, the more you feel empowered, and it makes you feel you’re in control. I organize most of my babies' things and try to keep them aesthetically pleasing to my eyes. As this helps my brain think, I got it all together. I have a big, durable toy box to keep our living room tidy. This even helps my little one get used to cleaning up. I also like that it’s a good reminder for me to donate his toys or limit the toys we have if his toy box gets full.
Postpartum is not easy; sleep deprivation, the need to feed instantly, and don't even let me start talking about pain, because it is such a pain. We need something to make us feel loved, and our bodies need some TLC after labor. Here are the things that made me feel a little bit whole again and lifted my spirits up after going through such pain.
8. Easier Feeding Sessions
- For Wrist Pain, I use a Breastfeeding Pillow to ease wrist pain. It makes both breastfeeding and bottle-feeding easier. When my son outgrew it, I used it to help him sit and balance on the floor with toys on top. It's still handy after that! Eventually, I will either sell it on Facebook Marketplace or donate it to charity to help another mom.
- For Breastfeeding Care, while I was breastfeeding, these creams: Earth Mama Nipple Cream or Lansinoh Lanolin Nipple Cream for nipple protection were essentials in keeping me sane as my body recovered from giving birth. Feeding a baby is hard, and anything that reduces the pain is a big help.
- For Back Pain, during my second pregnancy, I used a Donut/Set Cushion Pillow. My first pregnancy was easy, but this time I had constant tailbone pain. The pillow really helped with the discomfort from sitting. Afterwards, I got to reuse it for the car, and it worked perfectly for long drives.
9. Mom Needs More Love and Care
For relaxing: Tea for the Soul
I love drinking warm tea as it relaxes my heart and body, not just for health benefits, but it heals my soul for some reason. I indulge myself with favorites: Uncle Lee's Organic Green Tea and my Emperor Love Black Milk Tea, the latter one is more like a happiness booster for me as I love Milk Tea so dearly. But I’ve been trying to limit my Milk Tea expenses. I normally get mine with zero percent sugar and with no ice, yes, you can do that! And this milk tea I got from Amazon has hit the spot, it’s not too sweet, and I just love it!
Rejuvenating my body
At night, I love bubble baths when my body is ready and the stitches are healed. I relax in a warm bubble bath with my favorite Dr Teal's Foaming Bath and my bathtub pillow. I normally listen to some 20-30 minutes of spa music, and I just melt there and wait till the water feels cold.
I love drinking warm tea as it relaxes my heart and body, not just for health benefits, but it heals my soul for some reason. I indulge myself with favorites: Uncle Lee's Organic Green Tea and my Emperor Love Black Milk Tea, the latter one is more like a happiness booster for me as I love Milk Tea so dearly. But I’ve been trying to limit my Milk Tea expenses. I normally get mine with zero percent sugar and with no ice, yes, you can do that! And this milk tea I got from Amazon has hit the spot, it’s not too sweet, and I just love it!
Rejuvenating my body
At night, I love bubble baths when my body is ready and the stitches are healed. I relax in a warm bubble bath with my favorite Dr Teal's Foaming Bath and my bathtub pillow. I normally listen to some 20-30 minutes of spa music, and I just melt there and wait till the water feels cold.
A Baby Logbook helps new parents manage the challenges of a new child by tracking diaper changes, feeding, and other details for doctor visits, offering peace of mind.
10. A Wonderful Reminder for Tough Times
After welcoming my baby, everything changed—my life, my body, and even my sense of self. The carefree days of not worrying about keeping a little one alive are behind me. Now, I find myself constantly thinking about what to feed them, how to entertain them, and in the process, I've lost a bit of myself. I missed who I used to be and shed countless tears over it.
Having a Gratitude Journal that encourages you to persevere and count your blessings has been invaluable to me. While some find support from friends or family, I felt like I was navigating this journey alone. In solitude, I discovered my own strength; the silence became my companion, and through this experience, I learned to love myself even more.
This journal helps encourage a positive mindset by allowing you to reflect on and appreciate daily blessings. It promotes overall well-being and strengthens your resilience in the face of challenges.
Explore more designs at Transform Your Life with a Gratitude Journal
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Baby Must-Haves for a Happy Home
Anything that entertains my baby buys me time to do other things that need to be done. I’m all alone at home, and having something to keep my baby safe and entertained is crucial for my sanity. We have to take care of ourselves first before we can take care of our babies.
Anything that entertains my baby buys me time to do other things that need to be done. I’m all alone at home, and having something to keep my baby safe and entertained is crucial for my sanity. We have to take care of ourselves first before we can take care of our babies.
For Entertainment: As every minute helps!
11. Meet Mr Fox
My husband’s cousin gifted as a Fisher-Price Bouncer - I can't live without this bouncer! It has done tremendous help in taking care of myself. I named him Mr Fox, as a fox toy dangled on the bouncer, which my baby adores. When my baby was less than a year old, Mr Fox took care of him while I used the restroom in peace. I place him outside with the door open so I can see him, as I hurriedly take care of myself. There’s no peace as a mother, you always have to make sure you can see your baby, but at least I’m able to do things I wanted to do, while my baby bounces, listens to the lullaby songs and stares at Mr Fox.
My husband’s cousin gifted as a Fisher-Price Bouncer - I can't live without this bouncer! It has done tremendous help in taking care of myself. I named him Mr Fox, as a fox toy dangled on the bouncer, which my baby adores. When my baby was less than a year old, Mr Fox took care of him while I used the restroom in peace. I place him outside with the door open so I can see him, as I hurriedly take care of myself. There’s no peace as a mother, you always have to make sure you can see your baby, but at least I’m able to do things I wanted to do, while my baby bounces, listens to the lullaby songs and stares at Mr Fox.
12. Singing Wagon
As my baby got older, he didn’t fit in his bouncer anymore. Another cousin gave us a Musical Wagon, and my little one was obsessed. I made another friend who can entertain my baby as I do other things. I always make sure I can see him for safety. I never thought I’d be relying on toys to help myself and my baby.
13. For Tummy Time: It's Time to Roll Over!As my baby got older, he didn’t fit in his bouncer anymore. Another cousin gave us a Musical Wagon, and my little one was obsessed. I made another friend who can entertain my baby as I do other things. I always make sure I can see him for safety. I never thought I’d be relying on toys to help myself and my baby.
A Mat and a Play Gym are my tummy time essentials with my kids. It provides support for my back, offers just the right amount of cushioning for the baby, and typically serves as my opportunity to roll over and unwind alongside them.
- Large Waterproof Foam Play Mat - We still have this foam play mat, and it has been very durable for more than 4 years now.
- Infantino Activity Gym & Play Mat, Tropical - This play gym is perfect for babies' tummy time, with fun toys hanging above. The musical monkey sings while babies watch or try to grab it.
Bathtime Must-Have: Nothing fancy, just essentials!
14. Whale Tub that Grows with your Baby
Bathing my baby has its good and bad times. There are days when we would take a shower all week long, and days when he runs away from the thought of hearing the bathroom water. When he was less than a year old, it was simple and easy. I used a Fisher-Price Whale of a Tub Bathtub to clean him up. When he was able to sit on his own, he loved being inside the whale tub, and he splashes like crazy, like there’s no tomorrow.
At first, we didn't want to buy a baby tub for bathing, but this one became more useful for us, easy to store, and easy to wash afterwards. The tub also grows with the baby till the toddler years. We were able to use it till 2 years old.
When it was time to say goodbye to the whale tub, I got myself a Bathtime Knee Pad for knee support as he transitioned to being bathed inside the bathtub. I never thought knee pads could make such a difference; it has made bathtime easier for my knees.
Bath toys are also vital to keep my little one entertained as I bathe him. He loved playing with his waterproof books till a year old, and enjoyed playing with the plastic cups as he got older. These are also great airplane toys and for road trips as they’re small, lightweight and entertaining for babies. My little one still plays with the cups for bathtime, but this time he puts dinosaurs inside them and pretends they’re swimming with him.
- Bath Books – Set of 4 Black and White Waterproof Books - Newborns love black and white pictures, so this came very handy during tummy time. Later on, we used it for bath time as it's waterproof, and when he started to see more colors this book was even more entertaining to my baby. We sometimes bring just two books with us on our plane travels as it's light and small.
- Colorful Stacking cups - Our baby loved this toy! We brought this on most of our travels, road trips and even at the beach. Also, it is easy to please a child and sometimes kitchen measuring cups are all you need!
- Stacking Toy with Colorful Rings - Another great and affordable option for playtime.
For potty training:
- OXO Tot 2-in-1 Go Potty - This made potty training easy, as we can use it in our bathroom and outdoors too. I started potty training around 18 months old. My baby would go around the corner or near the bathroom to poop, so by 23 months, I knew he was ready. It took him 2-3 days to figure out what was going on, and before he turned 2 years old, he was potty-trained.
.jpg "Baby Carrier Convertible for Newborns and Older Babies 8-32 lbs")
My husband and I loved this Baby Carrier for long walks, as it provides good back support, especially on our hikes and grocery shopping trips.
16. Baby Carrier: Being hands-free is a Luxury!
17. Nail Trimmer: Lessen Anxiety for New Moms
I was one of those first-time moms who got scared of cutting my baby’s little nails. When my friend told me about this nail trimmer, it was a lifesaver. It made cutting my baby’s fingernails and toenails a piece of cake. I never have to worry about hurting his precious soft skin. These are small things that pile up when taking care of a baby. This might be a small thing, but whatever helps lessen my worries and stress a day makes me appreciate it.
Electric Nail Trimmer - Lifesaver! Save your sweat from cutting those precious nails. We got this trimmer and it works wonders, my husband and I usually sneak in trimming our son's nails while his breastfeeding. They also sell Replacement Nail Trimmer Pads, so we were able to use them for our second son.
18. Clip Holder: No more missing pacifiers and toys!
Baby Pacifier Clip/Blanket Leash - My first baby didn't really like using a pacifier, but during our first international trip, we made him use one as it helps with the ear pressure. I used this leash to hold his pacifier in place, and it even holds his toys and teether too. (Check out: Travel Tips When Flying with a Baby)
I strive to prevent any potential baby issues, such as diaper rash, before they arise. My first baby never experienced diaper rash, and my current infant also shows no signs, thanks to my use of this fantastic Organic Diaper Rash Cream whenever I notice any redness or after a big blowout. For ongoing care, I make it a point to apply the cream at night before bedtime and again in the morning upon waking.
These simple steps are incredibly important, as you want your baby to remain calm and happy. By avoiding the distraction of a rash and a fussy baby, you can focus more on playtime and all the other things on your to-do list.
20. For Sleeping: Peace of Mind is Gold!
A close friend of my husband gifted us this Owlet Dream Sock, and we never anticipated the peace of mind it provides. It monitors the baby’s pulse rate, oxygen levels, and sleep trends, along with live video through the Owlet Dream App. Here's an alternative: this Baby Video Monitor, which offers a live feed of your precious child as well.
Stay Strong: Ask for Help if needed, even divine intervention works!
If you're fortunate enough to have your parents, in-laws, siblings, and friends around, don't hesitate to reach out for a helping hand.“
I have inherited my mom’s special power, strength. She’s the strongest person I know, and I’m blessed to still have her in my life. She’s always been my inspiration. “ I don’t want to delete this part of my post. Even though my mom is gone now, I still feel her love for me. I’m blessed to have called her my mom. A mother’s love is incomparable and infinite.
These are the things that I have right now at home, in the kitchen, and in the bathroom that have helped me to a great extent in being a happy mother. I wish I had more help, but I don’t want to pity myself. You have to stand up for yourself and your baby. If no one’s there to help you, then think of something; it might mean paying for it, but the less stress you have while taking care of your baby will make you a better mom. Take care of yourself, as those precious eyes looking at you right now treats you as their world. Stay strong, Mom!
These are the things that I have right now at home, in the kitchen, and in the bathroom that have helped me to a great extent in being a happy mother. I wish I had more help, but I don’t want to pity myself. You have to stand up for yourself and your baby. If no one’s there to help you, then think of something; it might mean paying for it, but the less stress you have while taking care of your baby will make you a better mom. Take care of yourself, as those precious eyes looking at you right now treats you as their world. Stay strong, Mom!
Have fun and be safe ^__^
Do you want more adventure?
Visit June Lake, the “Switzerland of California!” This is one of California’s most beautiful and breathtaking lakes.
For my next adventure, we're heading to the famous Santa Monica in Los Angeles, California. Known for its iconic pier and beautiful beaches.
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