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Elvie Pump: The Hands-Free Breast Pump

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Elvie breast pump

I never thought I’d care so much about a breast pump.

But then again, I also never expected expressing milk to feel so… limiting.

Holding a loud machine to my chest multiple times a day wasn’t exactly the freedom I imagined.

That changed when I got the Elvie Pump — a silent, wearable, hands-free breast pump that actually let me express milk while getting on with life.

Here’s why it ended up being one of the most empowering tools in my postpartum kit — and why I wish I’d bought it sooner.

Why I Chose the Elvie Pump

I’d seen it on Instagram — sleek, minimalist, expensive. I wasn’t sure if it was style over substance.

But I was desperate for:

  • Mobility — I didn’t want to be glued to the sofa or tied to wires
  • Discretion — I wanted to pump in peace, not like a dairy cow
  • Time back — I needed to multitask, even just to make tea or reply to texts

After a week of using it, I can say: it lives up to the hype.

What It Did for Me

1. Gave Me My Hands Back

No cords. No bottles hanging off flanges. No balancing act.

I could pop the Elvie inside my bra, press start on the app, and that was it.

I’ve:

  • Cooked dinner
  • Folded baby clothes
  • Walked around the house
  • Sent emails…all while expressing.

It felt like such a small thing, but it changed everything.

I felt like I had some part of myself back.

2. Actually Quiet Enough to Use Anywhere

Is it 100% silent? Not quite. But it’s quiet enough to use during a Zoom call or while watching TV next to a sleeping baby.

I used it:

  • During car rides (as a passenger)
  • On walks with the pram
  • Even once in a baby group while no one noticed

That kind of discretion matters when you’re already managing so much, and don’t want more awkwardness in public.

3. Connected to My Phone (and Brain)

The app tracks everything:

  • Time pumped
  • Volume collected (per breast)
  • Pump history

It helped me understand patterns and feel like I had some control over what felt like chaos.

It’s not essential, but it was comforting — especially at 2am when I couldn’t remember if I’d already pumped or not.

Why It Was Worth the Investment

  • No tubing or wires
  • Easy to clean (5 parts per unit)
  • Works with a standard nursing bra
  • Saves real time — especially if you’re exclusively expressing or combo feeding
  • Rechargeable and portable
  • Backed by great UK customer service if anything goes wrong

I was hesitant about the price — but once I started using it daily, it became clear:

This wasn’t a luxury. It was sanity.

Things to Keep in Mind

  • Not for everyone:If you have latch issues, low supply, or are exclusively pumping, check with a lactation consultant first.
  • Suction strength varies:It’s not as strong as hospital-grade pumps — but it’s enough for many mums once your milk is established.
  • Learning curve:The first couple of uses were fiddly. Once I got the hang of positioning and settings, it was smooth.
  • Keep it charged:Battery life is good, but keep a rhythm (I charged mine overnight every other night).

Would I Recommend It?

Yes — especially if you want freedom and flexibility back.

The Elvie Pump let me:

  • Express without being trapped in one spot
  • Regain a little independence
  • Feel less like a milk machine, more like me

For working mums, multi-taskers, and those who just want to breastfeed on their terms, it’s absolutely worth the price.

Where I Got Mine

(Tip: NHS breastfeeding teams sometimes offer discounts or funding — worth checking locally.)

Related Reads

  • [What I Learned From Exclusive Pumping: Honest Lessons]
  • [Best Breastfeeding and Bottle Feeding Gear That’s Actually Worth It]

Lavera Baby & Kids Body Wash & Shampoo

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One Gentle Bottle That Does It All

Before becoming a mum, I never thought I’d spend so much time squinting at ingredient lists in baby products.

But once you see how sensitive your baby’s skin really is, you start questioning everything.

I was looking for something:

  • Natural, without perfume or harsh chemicals
  • Safe to use daily, even on dry or eczema-prone skin
  • And ideally, one bottle that could do hair and body

That’s how I ended up trying the Lavera Baby & Kids Body Wash & Shampoo.

And it quickly became one of the few bath-time staples I trust and actually re-buy.

What Made It Stand Out

1. Super Gentle on Baby’s Skin (and Scalp)

This body wash is made for delicate skin — and it shows.

From the first use, I noticed:

  • No redness or post-bath dryness
  • No weird reactions on my baby’s scalp
  • No strong fragrance — just a clean, subtle scent that fades quickly

It’s especially great if your baby has dry patches, cradle cap, or sensitive skin that flares up with standard shampoos.

2. One Bottle for Hair & Body

I’m all for simplifying routines — especially at bath time.

This formula works well as a gentle shampoo and as a body wash.

I can lather it in my hands or use a washcloth — it rinses easily and never leaves a film.

(Also no tears, in case it accidentally gets in the eyes — huge win.)

3. Organic Ingredients That Feel Reassuring

Lavera products are known for using:

  • Organic aloe vera
  • Evening primrose oil
  • No synthetic fragrances, parabens, or microplastics

Basically: nothing suspicious, nothing unnecessary, and that’s a big comfort when you’re using something every day on a newborn.

What I Genuinely Love About It

  • Feels truly gentle — no drying or tightness after use
  • One bottle does everything — head to toe, start to finish
  • Minimal scent — perfect for babies or parents sensitive to smells
  • Clean formula — free from nasties, certified organic
  • Great price for a natural brand — especially when compared to “greenwashed” high-street options

Things to Keep in Mind

  • Low lather — don’t expect bubble bath foam; it’s gentle and creamy, not sudsy (a sign of fewer synthetic surfactants).
  • Mild scent — if you like strong baby-smelling products, this one might feel too subtle. Personally, I love that it smells like nothing.
  • Best for younger babies — toddlers might eventually want something with a bit more scent or fun texture, but this is perfect for the first year.

Would I Recommend It?

Absolutely.

If you’re looking for a gentle, clean, trustworthy wash for daily use — without perfumes, without drama, and without having five bottles cluttering the bath — Lavera’s Baby & Kids Body Wash & Shampoo is a brilliant choice.

It’s one of those quietly excellent products that doesn’t shout, but works beautifully.

Where I Got Mine

(Tip: It lasts a surprisingly long time — we used one bottle for over two months with daily baths.)

Related Reads

  • [My Simple Night-Time Routine With a Newborn]
  • [Best Baby Products for Sensitive Skin That Actually Work]

Shea Butter for Baby Skin

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Shea Butter

The Natural Wonder I Didn’t Know We Needed

Before having a baby, I thought shea butter was just something you found in fancy body lotions.

I had no idea it would become one of the most useful, gentle, all-natural essentials in our baby skincare routine.

From dry patches to sore bums and even those flaky newborn feet, pure shea butter has saved us more than once.

Here’s why I’ll never be without it again.

Why I Turned to Shea Butter

I’d tried a few baby creams and balms from high-street brands — most of them full of ingredients I couldn’t pronounce.

They worked… kind of. But I kept coming back to the same questions:

  • What’s really in this?
  • Why is it £12 for a tiny tube?
  • Why does it sting when I try it on dry skin?

So I gave raw, unrefined shea butter a go.

It’s thick, yes — but when I warmed a little between my fingers and used it on my baby’s dry skin, I saw a difference almost overnight.

How It Helped My Baby’s Skin

1. Deeply Moisturising for Dry Patches

Newborns peel, toddlers scuff, and teething babies often end up with red cheeks or flaky skin.

Shea butter worked beautifully on:

  • Dry arms and legs after bath time
  • Flaky newborn hands and feet
  • Chapped skin from wind and dribble

A tiny dab goes a long way, and it melts into the skin slowly, giving long-lasting moisture without the greasy mess.

2. Soothed Nappy Rash Naturally

We had a few episodes of irritation — especially when we introduced solids.

I started dabbing shea butter on clean, dry skin before bedtime and noticed the rash faded much faster.

It acts as a gentle barrier, but it’s also anti-inflammatory and full of healing vitamins (A and E), which really helped calm everything down.

3. Helped With Eczema-Prone Skin

My son’s skin flared up with a rough patch on his belly around six months old.

Rather than reaching for steroid creams straight away, I tried applying shea butter after every bath.

The area became softer, less red, and less itchy within a few days.

It’s not a miracle cure, but for mild eczema, it’s been a brilliant natural option to have.

Why I Keep Using It (Even for Me)

  • Multi-use: I use it on baby’s skin, lips, hands — even my own heels and elbows.
  • Totally natural: No fragrance, no chemicals, nothing hidden.
  • Long shelf life: A single jar lasts months.
  • Ideal for travel: Instead of packing 4 creams, I just take one little tin of shea butter.

It’s now part of our daily routine — right after bath time, on dry cheeks in winter, and whenever skin needs some TLC.

What to Look For

Not all shea butter is equal. You want:

  • 100% raw, unrefined shea butter
  • Preferably organic, with no additives
  • Ivory or pale yellow in colour
  • Slightly nutty scent (if it smells like perfume, skip it)

We use brands like Naissance, SheaMoisture Raw, or Fushi — all easy to find in the UK.

Things to Keep in Mind

  • It’s thick: Warm it between your fingers before applying, especially in winter when it hardens.
  • Start with a small amount: It spreads far — no need to slather it on.
  • Patch test first: Especially for sensitive skin or if baby has nut allergies (shea is a nut-based butter, though it’s generally low-risk).
  • Store in a cool place: Away from direct heat or sunlight so it keeps its texture.

Would I Recommend It?

Absolutely.

It’s not hyped, it’s not expensive, and it doesn’t come in a designer bottle — but it works.

If you’re looking for a gentle, natural option to care for baby’s skin, raw shea butter deserves a spot on your shelf.

Sometimes the best solution is simple, ancient, and comes in a jar.

Where I Get Mine

(Tip: Look for cold-pressed, unrefined options — they retain the most goodness.)

Related Reads

Little Dutch Soft Balls

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Blue Soft Ball

The First Toy My Baby Could Actually Grab and Play With

There’s a moment when your baby first starts interacting with the world — little fingers reaching, eyes tracking movement, tiny hands trying to hold onto something.

And in our case, that “something” was the Little Dutch Blue Forest Friends soft balls.

I didn’t expect much — they looked cute and harmless, so I added them to a basket one day.

But they turned out to be the first toy my baby genuinely loved using — and kept coming back to.

Here’s why I recommend these soft sensory balls to every parent with a curious, chubby-handed baby.

Why I Chose Them

Honestly? I was tired of hard plastic toys and overwhelming noisy things that did too much.

These felt simple, soft, and safe. Plus:

  • They’re lightweight (so no risk of baby head injuries)
  • They fit perfectly in small hands
  • They look lovely — calm blues and gentle animal illustrations

And being from Little Dutch, I already trusted the brand to make things that are well made and thoughtfully designed.

What Made These Balls a Hit

1. Easy to Grab, Hold and Chew

At around 3 months, my baby couldn’t quite manage most toys — they were too heavy, too slippery, or too complex.

But these? He could:

  • Grab them with both hands
  • Pull them to his mouth
  • Roll them across a blanket
  • Even squeeze them like a stress ball (which made a satisfying crinkle sound)

The soft texture and small size made them the perfect first toy to build hand strength and coordination.

2. Gentle Sensory Features Without Overstimulation

Each ball has a different texture or sound:

  • One crinkles
  • One rattles
  • One squeaks slightly
  • One is just soft and squashy

No batteries, no flashing lights, no “learning mode” voices — just good, quiet stimulation.

Great for tummy time, nappy-free time, or gentle play before naps.

3. Safe Enough to Be Left Alone With

By the time my baby was rolling confidently, I felt totally safe leaving him with these balls in his play gym or cot while I made tea.

No sharp edges, no choking hazards, nothing hard or awkward — just soft, easy, harmless fun.

Why I Keep Recommending Them

  • Perfect for 2 to 6 months and beyond
  • Great gift idea that’s not plastic or loud
  • Machine washable (yes, really)
  • Looks good in your home — soft blues, not neon chaos
  • Keeps baby busy independently for short stretches (gold dust!)

Honestly, they’re the sort of toy that doesn’t try to do too much — and that’s exactly why it works.

Things to Keep in Mind

  • Not teething rings — they’re chewable, but not made for gnawing hard
  • Very soft — so older babies (10m+) might move on to balls they can throw or bounce
  • Hand wash or gentle cycle recommended — they wash well but don’t overdo it

Would I Recommend It?

100%.

If you want:

  • A first toy that actually fits baby’s abilities
  • Something calm and developmentally helpful
  • A lovely soft item that doesn’t scream “baby toy!”

Then these soft balls from Little Dutch are a quiet winner.

Perfect for gift-givers, minimalist parents, or just anyone who wants to give their baby something they’ll actually use.

Where I Got Mine

Related Reads

  • [The First 5 Toys My Baby Actually Used Before 6 Months]
  • [Tummy Time Toys That Actually Helped Build Strength]

Stop Cradle Cap Now with Mom-Approved Remedy

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I remember the first time I noticed the flaky bits on my baby’s scalp — I thought, “Did I not rinse properly?!”

Turns out it was cradle cap — completely normal, totally harmless, and… surprisingly stubborn.

It’s a yellowy, flaky, waxy build-up on the scalp, and no — you’re not meant to pick it.

Here’s what helped us gently clear it:

What Worked:

  • Coconut oil or olive oil, massaged in before bath time. Let it sit 10–20 mins.
  • Soft baby brush to loosen flakes (gently!) after the bath.
  • Mild baby shampoo — every few days, not daily.

What Didn’t:

  • Scraping or picking (it makes it worse)
  • Harsh shampoos
  • Washing too often

It took a couple of weeks, but it cleared.

Now, I treat it like a little signal — when it comes back, I know we need to ease up on products and keep things simple again.

Wish Upon a Cloud Tummy Time Roll

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The Toy That Actually Made Tummy Time Bearable

Tummy time sounded simple enough.

But when my baby hated it from day one — face red, arms flailing, legs kicking in protest — I realised I needed help.

We tried mats, blankets, even lying on my chest… nothing worked for more than two minutes.

Then we tried the Mamas & Papas “Dream Upon a Cloud” tummy time roll, and something clicked.

It didn’t magically turn tummy time into baby yoga — but it made it easier, calmer, and even… enjoyable?

Here’s why this small, soft roll became a big win in our baby routine.

What It Is

The Dream Upon a Cloud tummy time roll is exactly what it sounds like:

  • A soft, plush support pillow that props baby up during tummy time
  • Filled with gentle sensory features (crinkle sounds, mirrors, rattles)
  • Suitable from birth onwards

It’s part of the gorgeous “Dream Upon a Cloud” collection from Mamas & Papas — soft greys, neutrals, and cloud shapes that blend beautifully with any room.

But more than that — it works.

How It Helped With Tummy Time

1. Gives Baby Just Enough Lift

The roll is the perfect height — not too high, not too low.

It props baby’s chest up so they can see more of the world without the full face-plant situation.

This position made tummy time less frustrating, especially in the early weeks when neck strength is still developing.

We started with 2–3 minutes a day and built up — and it was one of the only ways my baby didn’t instantly cry.

2. Engaging Without Overstimulating

The attached toys are simple but clever:

  • A soft mirror that actually gets noticed
  • Crinkly textures that encourage reaching
  • A rattle that isn’t obnoxiously loud

It kept my baby curious just long enough to stretch and push up a bit — and that’s a huge win when every minute counts in those early sessions.

Also, the muted colours and gentle textures mean no rainbow overload — great for babies who get overstimulated easily.

3. Soft, Supportive, and Safe

The fabric is plush and gentle — no scratchy seams, no plasticky surfaces.

I never worried about skin irritation or discomfort, even during longer sessions.

And because it’s compact and lightweight, I could move it from the nursery to the living room or even pack it when visiting grandparents.

Why I Genuinely Recommend It

  • Actually made tummy time doable in those tough early weeks.
  • Soft and safe for tiny babies.
  • Light and portable — easy to store or carry.
  • Engaging but calm — no flashing lights or chaotic colours.
  • Machine washable cover — because, obviously.

It’s one of those things that doesn’t seem essential at first — until you realise it’s making a difficult part of daily baby life easier for both of you.

Things to Keep in Mind

  • Not a miracle toy:It won’t solve tummy time on its own — but it absolutely helps make it more manageable.
  • Wash cover before first use:It’s fine out of the box, but like anything baby-related, I gave it a quick wash first.
  • Outgrown eventually:Once baby is confidently lifting and rolling, you’ll use it less — but by then, you’ve already got your value.

Would I Recommend It?

Yes — especially if:

  • Your baby hates tummy time
  • You’re struggling to do it consistently
  • You want something soft, gentle, and beautifully made

It’s one of the few baby toys that felt genuinely helpful, not just decorative.

And those first weeks are hard enough — anything that helps, even a little, is worth it.

Where I Got Mine

GET CLOUD

(Tip: If you love the neutral colour scheme, check out the matching “Dream Upon a Cloud” playmat and mobile.)

Related Reads

  • [How to Survive the Fourth Trimester: My Realistic Essentials]
  • [Helping Your Baby Enjoy Tummy Time: What Worked for Us]