When I found out I was pregnant in 2017, I remember listing down every baby must-have for a newborn baby. As a new mom, I was eager and excited to complete my newborn must-haves checklist.
However, I also felt a little overwhelmed with all the stuff offered at the mall and thought I needed most of them. But when my baby grew, there were items I hadn't used because I bought excess.
Every new mom must have felt the urge to buy everything to prepare them for new motherhood. It may be overwhelming to absorb all parenting tips and essentials in your preparation process.
To the new mama trying to tick off their list of what to prepare for, feel free to ask other moms what essential items were handy for them and get advice on how the fourth trimester would look so you can get ready physically and emotionally.
"I've had challenges. My hormones were literally crashing, and I think it is very normal to feel the isolation," Iza Calzado said during the event by Edamama earlier this month.
The new mama also shared that she had her series of postpartum blues because it's a typical time to feel isolated because of the newness of motherhood. Here are some of the tips she wants to tell new moms:
Iza Calzado shares tips for new parents
1. "Give yourself time to recalibrate."
Set realistic expectations about yourself. Understand that being a new mom is a learning stage, and sometimes it's normal to feel uncertain. Take time to adjust to your new role and embrace flexibility. Iza shared that she is the type of mom who is not so rigid; rather, she embraces flexibility to take a step back when challenges and stressors arise.
2. "Take a break before you break."
Ask for help from a helper, your husband, or any family member. You are not a bad mom if you can't do it all alone and if you want to take a break. It is normal to want to take a break, make time for sleep, and practice self-care as a mom. Recharge so you can take care of your baby, feeling more energized again.
3. "Take it moment by moment."
"When could I work the way I worked before?" "When can I finally have regular sleep?" These are some of the questions of new moms. It may be a challenge to try to get back to the routines, but Iza advises taking it moment by moment. Remember that you and your baby are adjusting to the new world around you. Be patient and allow yourself to adapt and grow into your new role.
4. "Connect with other moms."
Find a supportive community like the Smart Parenting Village or other helpful groups to aid you in your new journey. If other moms survived motherhood, you, too, can get there. It's reassuring to know you're not alone in your experiences and challenges, and sharing insights and advice with other moms can provide valuable support.
5. "Stick to the basics."
In a recent interview, the new celebrity mom mentioned that there are too many brands, telling moms each product is essential. It is noteworthy to stick to the basics. Don't overcomplicate things when buying products for your little ones.
Iza Calzado's new mom must-haves for newborn baby
Sticking to the basics can help new moms avoid overspending. When asked about her new mom essentials for her daughter Deia Amihan, here are the items that Iza shared, and the brands we recommend.
1. Newborn Cloth Diaper (Php 35.00)
Topping her list is diapers. Iza mentioned that she wanted to use cloth diapers, but her baby is still too small for them, and she aims to try it on her newborn. Using cloth diapers can help you save money, as babies often need up to 10 diaper changes per day. Here's what we recommend new moms to try.
Buy it on Shopee
READ ALSO: Gaano Kalaki Ang Matitipid Mo Kapag Gumamit Ng Cloth Diapers Sa Loob Ng 2 Taon?
2. Muslin, with different designs (Php 169.00)
Iza was particular with this - she loves a lampin with different designs! A muslin cloth is a must-have for every new mama as it helps wipe away excess milk or spit-up after every feeding. It can also be used as a nursing cover, stroller cover, burp cloth, or security blanket. Many brands offer muslin blankets, but if you are looking for a practical and affordable option, this Einmilk muslin cloth is excellent!
3. Virgin coconut oil (Php 130.00)
Coconut oil is safe to use on babies and children. Simply massage the oil gently after giving a bath. There are many benefits of virgin coconut oil, such as treating eczema, diaper rash, and dermatitis. It also helps to remove cradle cap and soothe and moisturize their skin.
Buy it on Shopee
4. Cotton Balls 150s (Php 57)
Cotton balls have various purposes for newborns, such as when changing diapers, applying cream to a baby's skin, cleaning the skin, and more. They help maintain hygiene and prevent the spread of bacteria.
Buy it on Shopee
5. Nursing Pillow (Php 479)
It is a specially designed pillow that provides support and comfort to both the nursing mother and the baby during breastfeeding or bottle-feeding.
Buy it on Shopee
6. Breast Pump (Php 16,300)
Iza has endorsed this Medela Swing Maxi™ 2.0 Double Electric as her pumping must-have. This brand promises double pumping for up to 18% more milk. Medela is a Swiss family-owned company that aims to improve the health and well-being of breastfeeding mothers.
Buy it on Shopee
7. Changing pad (Php 749)
Many celebrity moms, such as Sam Pinto, Coleen Garcia, and Viy Cortez, trust Swaddies as their go-to brand for absorbent changing pads. It is eco-friendly, highly absorbent, washable, and quick to dry. This product is the best solution for a mom whose baby has excess milk or pee.
Buy it on Shopee
8. Rattle toys (Php 219)
Babies are born with developing vision, and high-contrast toys are beneficial for stimulating their visual development. Simply by wearing this toy on your baby's wrist, they can be engaged with the rustling sounds and colorful animal characters.
Buy it on Shopee
To all new moms, it's true what they say that the nights may feel long, but the years are short. The newborn phase is fleeting, so embrace every moment and prepare yourself, as your little ones will grow up before you know it. Cherish this time and look back on it with love and fondness.