If you’re a first-time parent, the everyday juggle of life with a baby can feel like a never-ending tightrope act. You’re constantly trying to find a way to get everything done, and often it feels like you’re just barely managing to keep your head above water. The good news is that there are baby hacks that can help make everyday life with a baby easier.
From simple tips for getting baby to sleep through the night to making feeding time less chaotic, these baby hacks and new parent tricks can help take some of the stress out of your motherhood journey. So whether you’re looking for ideas to make your life easier or want to be prepared for anything, check out these baby hacks that every first-time parent should know.
Newborn Hacks for the First Few Weeks
If you’re a first-time parent, the newborn stage can be overwhelming. You’re suddenly responsible for keeping a tiny human being alive, and it seems you are in a constant state of trial and error. To make things easier, here are a few newborn new mom hacks that will help you get through those first few weeks.
1. Learn Baby’s Cues
One of the most important things is understanding your baby’s sleep and hunger cues. Being attuned to these cues can help your baby get the newborn sleep and nutrition they need to thrive. It can also help prevent typical frustration from figuring out why your baby is crying.
Sleep Cues
When your baby first gets sleepy, they will show a few different signs:
- Staring off- they will be alert and quietly staring out
- Avoidance- they will avoid any interaction when you try to engage with them
- Turn head- baby’s head will turn away from stimulation
Signs they are ready to fall asleep:
- Pulling their ears
- Rubbing eyes
- Yawning
- Starting to get fussy
Once they show these signs, they should be in their crib, ready for their nap, or about to go into their sleep area and start their bedtime routine. This is the stage they are drowsy but awake and the perfect time to put them down.
If you miss the initial stages of your baby being tired, they enter the stage of being overtired. At this point, they will need to be calmed down before being put in their crib.
Signs they are overtired:
- Hysterical crying
- Arching their back
- Body becomes rigid
- Seems unconsolable
Hunger Cues
Similar to sleep cues, your baby will go through stages of hunger cues before they become over-hungry and need to be calmed down before feeding.
Early hunger cues
- smacking lips
- sucking on hands, fingers, or toys
- opening and closing mouth
They should eat now cues:
- rooting around for a breast or bottle
- trying to put themselves in a nursing position
- starting to get squirmy and fussy
- clenched fist
Over hungry cues, once they reach this point, they need to be calmed down before they can eat:
- crying
- moving head from side to side while frantically crying
When your baby is full, their hands will relax and no longer have clenched fists. They will also make a licking motion with their tongue and become drowsy.
These newborn hacks can help you understand how to recognize your baby’s cues for sleep and hunger so that you know when it’s time to put them down or feed them. With practice, it should get easier over the first few weeks of being a new mom.
2. Get a Baby App Tracker
As a new mom, it can take a lot of work to keep everything straight. A baby app tracker can be a handy tool for first-time parents. It can help keep track of your baby’s bedtime routine, eating, and diaper-changing schedules all in one place.
Moreover, some baby apps even come with interactive charts and graphs that can help you better understand your baby’s patterns. With a baby app tracker, you can rest easy knowing that you have all the information about your baby’s needs in one place. Below are some examples you can try or ask other moms what they use.
Baby App examples:
- Glow Baby
- BabySparks
- The Wonder Weeks
- Baby Tracker by WhatToExpect
- Sprout
- Baby Feed Timer
- Baby Connect
Great Baby Hacks for Diaper Changes
Diaper changing can be one of the most daunting tasks for first-time parents. It is a messy job and requires quick action and delicate handling to ensure your baby’s comfort and well-being. Fortunately, there are some hacks you can use to make diaper changes easier on both you and your baby. Here are some great tips to help make diaper changing a more pleasant experience for everyone involved.
3. Roll babies arms up in onesie during diaper changes
You can make it easier when changing a baby’s dirty diapers by rolling their arms up in their onesie. This helps keep the baby’s onesie out of the way so you can easily change the diaper without it getting in your way. It is also more comfortable for your baby since their arms are not squished when changing them.
4. Invest in a diaper cream applicator
Diaper cream can be a messy experience. To make it easier, you can use a “butt spatula” to apply diaper cream and help spread it more smoothly on the baby’s skin. These small tools have a flat edge that you can easily spread diaper cream. It allows you to spread the cream evenly and quickly, making it a much easier diaper change experience.
5. Get Dry Diaper Ready
To make things go more smoothly during diaper changes, be sure to have all the necessary supplies (diapers, wipes, etc.) ready ahead of time. This will make it easier to quickly change your baby’s diaper without searching for the items you need. Plus, if you have a dry diaper ready and under the baby’s bum, it can prevent any mess from occurring in case of an accident! Put the new diaper under the baby before taking off the dirty diaper.
6. Make a portable baby changing station for the go.
For those times when you need to change your baby’s diaper on the go, it can be a challenge to find an appropriate changing station. To make things easier, create a portable baby changing station by carrying some supplies, such as diapers, wipes, burp cloths, and a changing mat. This way, you won’t have to worry about changing your baby in an unsanitary environment or searching for a place to change them.
7. Have changing supplies around the house
It’s always a good idea to have extra diapers, wet wipes, and changing mats around the house so you can easily access them when needed. This will make it easier to take care of any unexpected diaper changes quickly and efficiently. Plus, having these supplies readily available will help you feel more prepared for any diaper change situation.
8. Aquaphor and coconut oil can usually cure anything.
If you’re in a pinch and need to quickly soothe your baby’s skin, Aquaphor and coconut oil are great items to have on hand. These products are gentle enough for use on sensitive baby skin and can help clear up any diaper rashes, cradle cap, or dryness on the baby quickly. Plus, they’re both easy to apply, so you can promptly address skin issues with minimal effort.
New Mom Hacks for the Early Weeks
The early weeks of being a new mom can be overwhelming. From figuring out how to care for your baby to make sure you get enough rest, it’s essential to take the time for yourself during postpartum to help make this transition easier. Here are some great hacks for making life a little bit easier during those first few weeks as a new mom:
9. Organize your baby’s clothes early on
Organizing your baby’s clothes early can save you time and energy later. Invest in sorting bins or drawers to keep your baby’s wardrobe organized by size, season, and type of clothing. This way, you won’t have to search for the right outfit whenever you need it.
10. Baby OxiClean for poop stains
Accidents happen, but that doesn’t mean your baby’s clothes have to suffer. Baby OxiClean is an effective cleaner for those inevitable poop stains and can help keep your baby’s wardrobe fresh and clean. This can be great to freshen up clothes so you can donate or use them for a second baby.
11. Plastic baby toys and teethers can be sanitized in the dishwasher.
You can sanitize many plastic baby toys, teethers, and other items in the dishwasher. This is an easy way to ensure that your baby’s toys are clean and free of germs. Get a dishwasher basket to keep all the small parts together while being washed.
12. Wash baby socks and small items in a mesh bag.
Baby socks and other small items can be difficult to wash in the washing machine. To make the process easier, invest in a mesh bag where you can put all of these smaller items before washing them. This will help keep them from getting lost or tangled with other clothing items.
13. Check with your insurance to see if they provide a free breast pump
Some insurance companies offer free breast pumps for new mothers. Check with your insurance provider to see if you are eligible for a free breast pump. This can save you money and give you the tools you need to breastfeed your baby successfully.
14. Get a free gift with an amazon baby registry.
Amazon offers a free welcome box when you sign up for their baby registry. This is a great way to get high-quality baby items without spending any money.
Awesome Baby Hacks for New Parents
Caring for a baby can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right baby hacks and shortcuts, you can ensure that you take the best care of your little one while making life easier for yourself. Here are some great tips for first-time moms with new babies:
15. Use a fitted sheet over pack-and-play outside
Create a safe playpen outside for your baby by covering a pack and play with a fitted sheet. This will keep your baby contained and safe from bugs while also letting your baby take in the sights and sounds of nature.
16. Cereal necklace for baby when grocery shopping
Keep your baby occupied during grocery shopping by giving them a cheerio necklace once they start eating solids. This is a fun and simple way to keep your baby entertained while you do your shopping.
17. Get or make a busy board.
Once your baby starts to move around more and crawl, you can create or purchase a busy board to keep your baby entertained. Busy boards are full of different textures and activities that will keep your baby engaged for hours.
18. Use a laundry basket for a playpen.
If you don’t have a playpen, you can improvise using a laundry basket as a makeshift playpen. Just put some blankets on the bottom and ensure your baby is secure before allowing them to play inside.
19. Use Amazon Prime
If you have Amazon Prime, use it to your advantage and get your baby’s essential items shipped right to your door. That way, you don’t have to worry about leaving the house with a newborn in tow.
Best Newborn Baby Hacks for Feeding Time
Feeding a newborn can be tricky, but there are some tricks you can use to make the process easier. Here are some tips for feeding your baby:
20. Premake formula for the day
Prepare pre-measured baby formula for the day ahead of time to make formula feeding easier. This will help ensure that you have the right amount of food ready when your baby needs it without having to measure out each bottle individually. You can also make a pitcher of formula for the day and keep it in the fridge.
21. Long sleeve bibs for messy eaters
If your baby is a messy eater, consider investing in long-sleeved bibs. These bibs cover the entire arm and chest area to help protect your baby’s clothes from food spills. This will help cut down clean-up time after a meal.
22. Safely warm bottles in a mug of hot water
Always use a mug full of hot water when warming your baby’s bottles. This will help ensure that the bottle warms evenly and doesn’t get too hot. Never microwave the bottle, as this can be dangerous for your baby.
23. Have a mat under the high chair
Another tip to cut down on clean-up after mealtime is to put a mat underneath your baby’s high chair. This will help catch any spills and make clean-up much more manageable.
24. Use a dishwasher basket to clean all bottle parts.
Clean your baby’s bottle parts easily by placing them in a dishwasher basket. This will keep all the pieces together and ensure they are adequately sanitized before each use.
Hacks for Fussy Babies or a Colicky Baby
If you need some mom hacks for a baby that is fussy, some tricks can help soothe your little one. Here are some tips for calming down a fussy, gassy, or colicky baby:
25. Freeze breastmilk as popsicles for teething later on
If you plan on breastfeeding your baby, freeze some breastmilk for later teething. You can use it as popsicles or rub it directly on your baby’s gums to soothe the discomfort associated with teething.
26. Use a pacifier to administer medicine.
If your baby hates to take any medicine, you can put a hole in a pacifier and place the medication in it. This will create a more pleasant experience for your baby, as they won’t fuss as much when taking medicine.
27. Swaddle your baby
Swaddling is an age-old technique that can be used to soothe a fussy baby. You can wrap your baby in a baby blanket and gently rock them until they calm down. This will help relax their body and make them feel secure.
28. Gripe water
Gripe water is a natural remedy that You can use to soothe a new baby with colic. You can mix the gripe water with their formula, which will help alleviate any discomfort they may feel.
29. Babywearing
Baby wearing is a great way to keep your baby close and calm them down. The closeness will help soothe any fussy baby or colic they might be experiencing. This can allow you to have your hands free to do other tasks while keeping your baby calm. Invest in a baby carrier that doesn’t hurt your back but keeps your baby snug.
Diaper Bag Hacks to Make Mom Life more Effortless.
Having a few diaper bag hacks can make a first-time mom feel at ease. Here are some tips for packing and organizing your diaper bag:
30. Bring extra clothes and diapers
Always pack an extra set of clothes for your baby and yourself, plus several extra diapers, just in case. This will ensure that you’re prepared if any accidents occur while you’re on the go.
31. Organize your bag with pouches and pockets
Use small pouches and pockets to organize items in your diaper bag so you can easily find them when you need them. You can also use a packing cube or two for more oversized items like extra clothes or blankets.
32. Keep premade formula in a diaper bag for emergencies
If you’re bottle-feeding your baby, keeping some premade formula in your diaper bag might be a good idea. This can help if you cannot make a bottle immediately or are in an emergency.
33. Keep backup supplies in the car.
Always have a few backup supplies in your car if you forget something or the baby spits up all over themselves and you. This can include extra formula, diapers, wipes, blankets, and even a different outfit for your baby.
Newborn Sleeping Hacks
Getting your baby to sleep can be pretty challenging, but some tips help make the process easier and get your baby as much rest as possible. Here are some newborn sleeping hacks you can use:
34. Size up diapers at night
If your baby is sleeping longer at night, size up the diaper, so they don’t leak. This will help keep them dry and comfortable throughout the night, so babies sleep longer.
35. Know when to stop swaddling
When your baby starts showing signs of becoming more active, stop swaddling them. This will give them the freedom to move around without becoming too constrained. It is also safer for them once they start rolling around in bed.
36. Heat the crib sheet with a heating pad
If your baby’s room is cold, use a heating pad on the mattress for a few minutes before laying them down for the night. This will create a warm and cozy environment for them to sleep in.
37. Practice safe sleep practices
Using a dockatot, MamaRoo swing, or soft nest to sleep is not recommended as it can be dangerous for newborns. It’s best to stick with the traditional sleeping environment for your baby. To prevent SIDS and keep your baby safe, ensure your baby is clear of any loose blankets or soft pillows when they are sleeping.
38. Get the 2-in-1 mattress suitable for babies and toddlers
A two-in-one mattress is an excellent way to save money and keep your sleeping baby comfortable as they grow. This mattress can be flipped over from a newborn to a toddler, giving you the best of both worlds.
39. Use velcro swaddle blankets for a quicker swaddle.
Velcro swaddle blankets are great for quickly and securely swaddling your baby without wrapping them up in a swaddling cloth. They’re also easier to take off if they need a diaper change or feeding in the middle of the night.
Best Baby Hacks for Organization
Organizing the baby’s nursery and supplies can help make life much easier. Here are some of the best baby hacks for the organization:
40. Use drawer dividers in the baby’s dresser
Baby clothes are so small it can be hard to see exactly what you have and where everything is. Use drawer dividers in the baby’s dresser to keep all of their clothes and supplies organized. This will make it easier to find items when you need them and less overwhelming when you put away laundry.
41. Stroller hooks
Stroller hooks are great for extra storage when you’re on the go. You can hang a bag with diapers, baby wipes, burp cloths, and other supplies from these hooks, so they don’t take up space in the stroller itself.
42. Hang bibs
If you’re tired of having bibs all over the place, use a command hook on the back of your high chair. This is a great way to keep them off the floor and within easy reach during mealtime.
43. Keep a bin or basket handy in the baby’s room.
Keep a specific bin or basket in the baby’s room where you can toss clothes that no longer fit. This will make tracking what needs to be donated or passed on easier without searching the entire closet.
FAQs for New Parent Baby Hacks
1. What are some fun things to do with a baby?
You can do lots of fun activities with your baby, such as playing peek-a-boo, singing lullabies, taking walks around the neighborhood, reading stories together, and exploring different textures.
Newborn tip: you can also give your baby plenty of tummy time to help them build strength and coordination. Other fun activities include visiting the park or beach for a picnic and fresh air, visiting an aquarium or museum, baking simple recipes together in the kitchen, or painting crafts.
2. How do you stimulate a bored baby?
Try talking to your baby and playing age-appropriate games like peek-a-boo, finger puppet shows, and simple songs. You can introduce toys such as shape sorting and block puzzles. If you can go outside, take walks and explore different sights together.
Also, try taking a class at your local library or community center for babies – this can be an excellent way for you and your child to socialize and learn new things. This can be a great way to meet other first-time mom friends during the newborn phase. Finally, make sure your baby gets plenty of cuddle time! It’s easy for both of you to relax and enjoy each other’s company.
3. How do you mentally stimulate a newborn?
Mentally stimulating a newborn baby can be done by talking, singing, and reading to them. You can also provide visual stimulation by displaying bright colors and patterns in the nursery or play area and tactile stimulation through gentle massage or cuddles.
Make sure to introduce your baby to new sounds, toys, people, and environments; this helps with cognitive development as they recognize familiar people, places, or things.
Additionally, look for toys that encourage problem-solving skills, such as shape sorters or activity cubes. Spending quality time together with your baby is essential for their mental growth!
4. What should I do with my baby every day?
You should do various activities with your newborn baby each day to help promote their development. Spend time talking and singing to them, go for walks, explore different textures and take trips out for picnics or visits to the park. Reading stories is also a great activity that can help stimulate cognitive growth.
In addition, incorporate interactive games like peek-a-boo and puzzles and shape sorters that can help teach problem-solving skills. Make sure to give your baby plenty of cuddle time as they will appreciate the quality one-on-one bonding! Finally, remember that letting your little one explore new sounds, toys, people, and environments is an integral part of their mental stimulation.
Conclusion
New parent life can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right baby hacks and activities for new moms, you can make your job easier while giving your little one plenty of mental stimulation and development opportunities.
From using command hooks for bibs on high chairs to introducing toys that encourage problem-solving skills and spending quality time together with your baby, there are many ways you can help them grow in a fun and meaningful way!
With the right strategies and resources, you can ease into your new role as a parent with confidence and success. There are many practical hacks that new parents can use to make their lives easier and reduce stress. Feel free to ask for help when you need it. Sign up for a delivery service for meals, household supplies, groceries, and more.
Don’t forget – parenting is a fantastic experience full of joy and challenges; take each day at a time and enjoy every moment! You can make the journey even more enjoyable with the right baby hacks. Good luck on your parenting journey!
