Tried, Tested, and Truly Worth It
There’s a moment in pregnancy when the excitement of becoming a mum starts to get a little… well, overwhelming. Suddenly, your feeds are full of must-haves, your friends all have different opinions, and the baby aisle feels more like a maze than a moment of clarity.
If that’s you right now — I’ve been there.
When I was pregnant with my first, I spent hours scrolling, researching, and second-guessing every item on my list. I didn’t want to waste money or make mistakes. And after having four children, I can confidently say: you really don’t need everything.
This post isn’t a massive checklist. It’s a gentle guide — from one mum to another — sharing the few things that made the biggest difference in those early days. These are the products I used with all four of my babies (each of them totally different), and ones I still recommend to every new parent I know.
If I can save you some time, money, and stress — then this list has done its job.
1. Love To Dream Swaddle Up Sleeping Bag
This was the biggest game-changer for us — hands down. It came as a recommendation from a friend and I’ll never forget the difference it made. Unlike traditional swaddles, this one allows babies to sleep with their arms up — giving them freedom to move without startling themselves awake with an accidental slap in the face.
We used this with all four of our babies, and I always say: if you’re only going to get one sleep product — make it this.
2. ErgoBaby 360 Carrier
All four of my babies have spent time snuggled into this — especially my first and third, who preferred cuddles to the pram. The ErgoBaby 360 gave me back my hands when I needed them most: cooking, tidying up, playing with my other kids — all while keeping my baby calm and close.
Every baby is different, but this carrier worked with every one of mine.
3. Maxi-Cosi Pebble 360 Car Seat
Trust me — the ability to rotate your car seat to face you when lifting your baby in and out? It’s invaluable.
Every parent I know who’s used this says the same. It’s safe, reliable, and makes those day-to-day car journeys so much more manageable, especially when your back’s feeling the strain.
4. HALO Bassinet Swivel Sleeper
I wanted a close-sleeping solution that felt safe, practical, and gentle — and this one ticked all the boxes. The bassinet swivels, making nighttime feeds easier, and the built-in nightlight, soothing sounds, and vibrations help settle baby without needing to leave bed.
It was a true lifesaver during those early months when sleep felt like gold dust.
I’m all about keeping things simple, and this bag gets it so right. The pods are lightweight and versatile — perfect to grab individually or throw into another bag, pram, or even the car.
With four kids, I’ve tried my fair share of changing bags, but this one has stayed with me through them all.
6. Grow Anywhere Blackout Blinds
Even if you have blackout blinds at home, these are non-negotiable when you’re away. I learnt early on how tough it can be to get a baby to nap in daylight — especially once they’re past the sleepy newborn phase.
These blinds go up easily and work like magic, wherever you are.
Bathing a slippery newborn can feel terrifying. This support is sturdy, safe, and gave me peace of mind every time.
It’s suitable from birth and makes bath time far more enjoyable for both baby and you. I honestly wouldn’t bath a newborn without it.
8. Aden + Anais Muslin Squares
If you ask any experienced mum what they couldn’t live without, they’ll likely say: muslins.
These Aden + Anais ones are beautifully soft and hard-wearing — perfect for everything from burping to shading to mopping up the inevitable mess. You’ll want lots (trust me), especially the smaller sizes for on-the-go.
A good night’s sleep in pregnancy is worth its weight in gold — and this pillow was heavenly. Full body support, no awkward reshuffling in the night, and I barely wanted to get out of bed.
Even postpartum, I found it helpful during feeds and rest.
There’s a reason this bouncer is in nearly every mum-friend’s living room: it works.
It’s lightweight, easy to move from room to room, and gives you a safe spot to place baby when you need a moment (or two).
No batteries, no fuss — just a comfortable bounce that babies love.
With love and morning light,
Nikki x
Mum of 4 & Founder of Thermo4Life
Helping you feel calm, strong, and connected — one morning at a time.
Thermo 4 Life 
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