BloomBabies

Wellbeing

Gentle Way of Cutting My Baby’s Nails Without Panic

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Let’s be real: cutting a baby’s nails is terrifying.

Those nails are tiny, the fingers are tinier, and the fear of nicking skin is real. No one tells you how fast those little claws grow — or how easily they can leave scratches on their face.

We were told, “Just wait until they’re asleep.” Easier said than done when every nap feels sacred.

Here’s what actually made nail-trimming less stressful — and what didn’t.

What Helped:

  • Filing instead of cutting for the first month — way safer.
  • Using baby nail scissors with rounded tips (not adult clippers).
  • Doing it right after a bath when nails were soft.
  • Having another adult hold the baby or distract them.

What Didn’t:

  • Trying to trim while they were wriggling or crying.
  • Biting nails — risky and unhygienic.
  • Cutting too short — made the skin sore.

Our Lifesaver:

A soft emery board kept nails smooth between trims. Quick, quiet, no drama.

If you’re dreading it: that’s normal.

You’re careful because you care — and that’s the right instinct.

GET CLIPPER

Raw Virgin Coconut Oil for Baby Skin

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The Simple, Natural Hero I Keep Coming Back To

When I became a mum, I was bombarded with baby skincare products — balms, creams, lotions, sprays.

Some cost more than my own moisturiser.

But when my baby’s skin flared up with dry patches and cradle cap, the product that worked best wasn’t from a fancy brand.

It was a jar of raw virgin coconut oil sitting in our kitchen.

Here’s why I now tell every new mum: don’t underestimate the power of this simple, natural oil.

When I became a mum, I was bombarded with baby skincare products — balms, creams, lotions, sprays.

Some cost more than my own moisturiser.

But when my baby’s skin flared up with dry patches and cradle cap, the product that worked best wasn’t from a fancy brand.

It was a jar of raw virgin coconut oil sitting in our kitchen.

Here’s why I now tell every new mum: don’t underestimate the power of this simple, natural oil.

Why I Tried Coconut Oil in the First Place

To be honest, it wasn’t my first instinct.

I’d stocked up on all the baby-specific creams from the usual high street names.

But they either didn’t work or made things worse.

My baby had:

  • Dry elbows and flaky arms
  • A little cradle cap
  • Mild nappy rash

My health visitor casually mentioned trying raw, unrefined coconut oil — and I had some organic virgin oil already at home for cooking.

Desperate, I gave it a go.

And within a few days, the difference was incredible.

How It Helped My Baby’s Skin

1. Soothes Dry Patches Instantly

Baby skin dries out easily — especially in winter or after baths.

Coconut oil just melts into the skin, leaving it soft, hydrated, and smooth.

No stinging, no perfumes, no irritation.

And it doesn’t feel greasy or sticky once it’s absorbed — just a lovely soft finish.

I started using it after every bath and noticed the dry spots disappearing quickly.

2. Helped Clear Cradle Cap Gently

I massaged a little coconut oil onto my baby’s scalp after bath time, left it for 10–15 minutes, then gently brushed with a soft baby brush.

The flakes lifted easily without redness or fuss.

It became our calm, quiet routine — and avoided the mess and tears we had with other treatments.

3. Soothing for Mild Nappy Rash

During a week of teething (and endless nappies), I used coconut oil as a barrier layer after every change.

It helped reduce redness and kept the skin feeling soft and calm.

Plus, it’s antibacterial and antifungal — great for keeping the area clean naturally.

4. Perfect for Baby Massage

Warm a little between your hands and it turns into a liquid — perfect for post-bath baby massage.

No overpowering smells, just that lovely gentle coconut scent.

It was the only thing my baby’s skin didn’t react to, and the closeness and calm it brought to our evenings became something I looked forward to.

Why I Keep Using It (Even Now)

  • One product, multiple uses: Nappy balm, massage oil, moisturiser, cradle cap remedy, even for my own hands.
  • Totally natural: No chemicals, fragrances, or preservatives — just pure, raw, unrefined coconut oil.
  • Affordable: A single jar lasts ages and costs far less than many baby-brand creams.
  • Travel-friendly: I took one small jar on holiday and used it for everything — baby skin, dry lips, after-sun, even cooking!

What to Look For

Not all coconut oils are created equal.

Look for:

  • 100% Raw Virgin Coconut Oil
  • Unrefined and cold-pressed
  • Organic if possible

Avoid anything deodorised or hydrogenated — it’s not the same.

I usually get mine from brands like Kiki Health, Coco & Co., or even Pukka — all widely available in the UK or online.

Things to Keep in Mind

  • Patch test first: Natural doesn’t mean zero reaction. Try a little behind the ear or on the wrist first.
  • Can stain fabric: It’s oil — don’t use near lovely white babygros or your best throw.
  • Store it well: Keep the jar sealed and away from heat or direct sunlight.

Would I Recommend It?

100%.

If your baby has dry skin, cradle cap, or sensitive reactions to commercial creams — try a small jar of raw virgin coconut oil.

You might be surprised at how much it replaces in your routine.

Sometimes the best solution isn’t found in the baby aisle — it’s already in your kitchen cupboard.

Where I Get Mine

GET COCONUT OIL

(Tip: Look for glass jars with a white solid texture — that’s the good stuff.)

Related Reads

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

Koala Baby Carrier for Freedom Lovers

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baby koala

The Newborn Sling That Saved My Arms (and My Sanity)

When my baby was born, I quickly realised she didn’t want to be put down.

Ever.

Lovely? Yes.

Exhausting? Also yes.

I needed something that would keep her close, help me move around the house, and give my arms a break.

After a lot of trial and error, I found the Koala Baby Carrier — and it’s hands down one of the most useful things I’ve bought as a new mum.

Here’s why I recommend it to any parent with a newborn who just wants to be held all day long.

Why I Chose the Koala Baby Carrier

At first, I thought about getting a wrap — those long stretchy ones you see all over Instagram.

But honestly? They stressed me out. Too much fabric, too many steps, too fiddly when you’re sleep-deprived and wearing milk-stained pyjamas.

The Koala carrier caught my attention because:

  • It’s a hybrid between a wrap and a structured carrier
  • It’s ready to wear in seconds
  • It supports even the tiniest newborns
  • And — most importantly — it felt safe, soft, and secure

I didn’t want something complicated. I wanted something I could throw on while the kettle was boiling — and the Koala delivered.

How It Helped My Life With a Newborn

1. It’s Genuinely Easy to Put On

No knots, no twisting, no instructions that require a degree.

The Koala sling just slips over your head like a T-shirt, and you pull the fabric panels into place.

I could get it on one-handed while holding a fussing baby — no helper needed, no wrapping gymnastics.

Huge win when you’re operating on 2 hours of sleep and coffee fumes.

2. Perfect for Newborn Cuddles and Naps

The first few weeks, my baby would only sleep on me.

The Koala carrier meant I could:

  • Keep her close, snug, and happy
  • Have both hands free (for tea, snacks, emails, even a quick stretch)
  • Move around without disturbing her sleep

It honestly saved my back and arms — and gave me a bit of freedom without sacrificing that closeness she needed.

3. Soft, Breathable Fabric That Feels Safe

The material is stretchy enough to feel snug, but supportive enough to hold baby upright.

No awkward slumping or sliding.

The crossed back design distributes weight evenly and feels sturdy, without needing loads of buckles or padding.

And it’s made from soft, breathable cotton — which matters when you’re wearing it for hours, especially during skin-to-skin or summer walks.

4. Easy to Wash and Quick to Dry

Babies spit up. They drool. They have… leaky moments.

The Koala carrier goes straight in the wash and dries quickly — no need to baby it (pun intended).

I kept a second one on hand because we used it every single day.

A Little Bonus: Dad Wore It Too

My husband was skeptical at first, but once he tried it, he loved it.

No long learning curve — just throw it on and go.

It became his go-to for early morning cuddles and walks, giving me a little breathing room to rest or get things done.

Seeing him wear it made me feel like we were in it together — both hands-on, both part of the rhythm of newborn life.

What I Genuinely Love About It

  • Ready in seconds — no complicated setup.
  • Perfect for newborns — from day one.
  • Soft and secure — baby feels snug and safe.
  • Breathable — ideal for long stretches or skin-to-skin.
  • Machine washable — because mess is a guarantee.
  • Comfortable for parents — no shoulder pain, no back strain.

Things to Keep in Mind

  • Limited as baby gets bigger:It’s ideal for newborns and small babies, but you’ll want to upgrade to a more structured carrier later on.
  • Not hands-free for everything:You still need to support baby’s head when they’re very tiny, especially during active movements.
  • Choose the right size:The carrier comes in different sizes for the parent — make sure to measure properly to get the best fit.

Would I Recommend It?

Absolutely — especially for the fourth trimester.

It gave me:

  • My arms back
  • A bit of mental space
  • And a deeper bond with my baby, thanks to all that snuggly closeness

If you want something simple, safe, and comfortable for those early weeks (and don’t fancy learning how to tie 5 metres of fabric), the Koala is a brilliant choice.

Where I Got Mine

GET KOALA

(Tip: They often run bundle deals if you want to grab two colours or keep one as a backup.)

Related Reads

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]

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]