Quinn NelsonOct 7, 2024
Dads/moms: what are a few things/gadgets/supplies a first-time parent may want? What are things that are trendy but dumb/unneeded? Any and all feedback appreciated!
Show threadJosh HattersleyOct 7, 2024

@snazzyq possibly unpopular opinion—do an audio-only V-Tech monitor. Amazing range and battery life, and it’ll combat that new parent impulse to obsess over how baby is doing in the crib, and likely give them space to get some extra downtime even after waking before they reach out for you with their voice.

I’m also very anti-breathing or pulse monitoring devices, personally. Just feels like a way to stress yourself out. Follow best practices for crib setup and trust your preparation there.

Show threadJosh HattersleyOct 7, 2024
@snazzyq also: don’t worry about special bottle sanitizers. Sanitize at outset (boiling method works just fine), then just clean thoroughly with soap, hot water, and a bottle brush after use. An occasional dishwasher run on sanitize setting for that extra clean.
Show threadJosh Hattersley

@snazzyq one low tech feature I swear by: swaddles with built-in Velcro. I feel like I was actually pretty decent at regular swaddling with our first, but he broke free almost every time as the nap progressed. With our second we started with Velcro swaddles from the get go and loved it (and, anecdotally, got better naps too).

Bonus of Velcro: in those early weeks/months (“in the forest”) when sleep is rough, not having to engage your brain to properly swaddle will be appreciated!

Oct 7, 2024 at 9:42amIvory for iOS
Show threadChris  Oct 7, 2024

@jhatters we have an audio only monitor, with build in music/white noise generator. She sleeps like a charm with it. It also has a light projector, but we don't use it anymore.

I also agree about the bottle sanitiser and indifferent about the swaddle w/ Velcro, because some babies don't like to be swaddled.

I do recommend getting a ton of muslin cloths (if that is the correct translation for "hydrofiele doeken"). They are the multipurpose superhero you need.
@snazzyq