THE FULLEST Faves XI: New Mom Edition
Recently, I gave birth to my second baby, Grace. It reminded me that you don’t actually need much when you have a baby. Most people overdo it on all fronts, but I also understand the excitement of bringing a new soul into your life and planning all the ways you will shower them with your love, including material objects. This is a list of things I highly recommend but most of all, I think planning for the mom’s postpartum care should be top priority!
Cloth Diapers: Esembly
This time around, I committed to using cloth diapers because the materials are superior to even the best sustainable diaper companies. I still plan on using Coterie diapers when I’m traveling, but overall I am so happy to have found out about the brand Esembly. If it wasn’t for their simple cloth diapering system, I probably wouldn’t have finally made the decision to go this route! Their system is complete but one change I’ve made is to use a 100% wool or cashmere outer for the diaper so that all materials are plastic-free. It’s a bigger commitment because you will need to waterproof the fabric with lanolin twice a month. However, I think it’s worth it because it’s very cute, better for the environment, and better for you and your baby as there are less endocrine disruptors. It might not seem that big of a deal but when you do something several times per day, or wear something all day long, reducing plastics on your body makes a big difference!
Charlie Crane Levo Rocker
This wooden, Scandinavian rocker has a cute activity set attachment and a sheepskin add-on. It’s one splurge worth making and can be used for your subsequent babies!
Doona
The only car seat/stroller combo you will need! With my first child, I purchased one way too late because of aesthetics. However, I’ve since learned that convenience trumps appearances on this one. Honestly, I’m so happy that I’ll never have to carry around a heavy car seat again!
Lunya Organic Jumpsuit
From pre-pregnancy to postpartum, and the entire time in between, this cute jumper will expand and contract with you. It also offers a comfortable and natural material to lounge and sleep in!
Askr & Embla Sleep Pod
We co-sleep so instead of a crib, this was our baby’s bed! It’s an organic version of the more well known “dock-a-tot.”
Artipoppe Zeitgeist Baby Carrier
Strollers aren’t really necessary the first several months or even longer/ever. Keep them close with a carrier and get things done at the same time. Once they’re old enough to walk, they won’t really want to be in a stroller anyway! At that point you can get a wagon (we like the Veer wagon), use a scooter, or strider bike to keep them moving along.
Living Libations Jai Baby Balm
Perfect for infant massage. Helps their nervous system and prepares them for bed.
Nucifera Balm and Oil
For mama’s body and for nipple cream when nursing. Also can be used to make your own coconut oil wipes to remove meconium in the early days! I use bamboo tissues, liquified coconut oil (MCT oil), and essential oils like fennel, frankincense, and rose.
Kinder Thoughts™
I mentioned using these capsules during my last few weeks of pregnancy, but it’s a must do during the postpartum period to keep you from those postpartum blues. Not to mention they help any inflammation you are experiencing from the birth.
Rael Organic Disposable Diapers for Mama
During my last pregnancy, I searched high and low for organic adult women’s underwear. The only option was Depends and I could not bring myself to use them. In the end, I used the hospital underwear and organic pads then switched to Thinx. Yet, that still wasn’t really the answer for me. This time around, I found this pack of organic disposable underwear from Rael. They were perfect earlier on for my heavier postpartum flow, then later I switched over to their organic reusable cotton pads afterwards. I am so happy to finally have an option that resembles the same underwear as my baby girl.
Postpartum Support
Abhyanga massage, acupuncture, craniosacral therapy for baby and mama, Ayurvedic meals (onion, garlic, soy, dairy, and brassicas-free), belly binding, yoni steaming, and personal support — now THIS is where to spend your money.Mamas are meant to be supported, it’s a beautiful tradition. So rather than spending a bunch on a nursery, spend money on this special time so you can feel as sane as possible and really, truly enjoy your time with the little babe you just brought into this world!Nikki Bostwick is the founder and editor in chief of THE FULLEST and host of THE FULLEST Podcast. She has always been passionate about providing wellness content that offers a perspective outside the mainstream narrative — one that is holistic, diverse, and inclusive. Since launching, Nikki has grown THE FULLEST to include a daily digital platform, a weekly podcast, a botanical product line, and a wholesale business alongside her amazing team. She is also a mom of two, nestled in Newport Beach with her high school sweetheart and their Siberian Husky.
