Baby Feeding Essentials

Breastfeeding is the most natural way to feed the newborn and provide them all required nutrition naturally. It helps babies to grow and build immunity too.

One essential category of products that is required in raising a baby is feeding products. However, feeding babies could be intimidating, especially for first-time parents because you are not yet aware of what feeding items you’ll need daily.

This guide will help you with the baby feeding essentials that you will require in no particular order. These feeding essentials will make the process easy for you and baby. 

But before we begin the discussion about feeding essentials, let’s see what is complimentary feed and why it is important for growing infants and kids.

Complimentary feeding

But as baby grows past the six months, they need to introduce to the other food items. Though the task of weaning is not easy, it is the first cornerstone for every baby to develop the taste for a variety of food.

Along with the breastfeeding, complimentary feeding for a baby should be started from the age of six months.

To meet the growing nutritional needs of a baby, complimentary food becomes an important part of baby food.

Infants grow at an alarming speed during the age of six months and beyond. The growth rate at this age is almost incomparable to that in middle childhood and beyond.

Almost all organs start to grow rapidly and to cope up with the high demand for proteins, energy, and other nutritional requirements baby start to feel hungry and should be feed often with nutritious complementary feed.

Ministry of women’s & child development welfare laid out several important guidelines for the parents about the importance of complimentary feed and what Indian food they can use for the same purpose.

To read all the details about breastfeeding and complimentary food at the age of six of baby, you can visit here.

What to feed your baby?

It all depends upon the age of the baby, as their nutritional requirement differs.

Around 6 months –

This is the period when most babies get introduced to complimentary food along with the breastfeeding.

At this stage, you can feed the baby with complimentary food for once a day and it should consist of one food item at a time. So, that even the baby shows allergic reactions to food, you know what to avoid.

To begin with, you can give the baby a single vegetable or fruit. Soft cook, mash or blend them to soften, so that baby can eat them without any struggle.

You can introduce the soft cooked leafy veggies, soft fruits like banana, apples, papaya, etc or can just begin with the diluted cow milk.

Once tolerated well for a couple of weeks, increase the quantity and frequency.

Around 7 to 10 months

Its been a month or two baby is having complimentary food. So, by now he/she has enough practice learning how to have the food.

At this stage, the key point is to eat with them so that they can learn by watching you eat. Remember, babies are a good observer and once they see, they can easily put it to the practice.

Usually, this is a stage where your baby will get used to various tastes.

If he dislikes something, you need to offer the same for several times so that he can develop the taste for that food item.

At this stage make sure you offer them 3 meals (breakfast, lunch, and tea) with a wide variety of food.  Food can be mashed, lumpier in texture.

You can give them soft-cooked broccoli, Indian cereals, spinach, cabbage, carrot, and soft fruits. Also, introduce them to the soft cooked chicken, fish, boiled egg,  lentils, and beans.

Around 10 to 12 months

By now baby becomes used to the 3 meals a day.

You can now offer them chopped and finger food items on top of the mashed and soft-cooked meal they are getting.

Let the baby enjoy a wide range of food items with different tastes and textures.  Allow them to eat a bit bigger chunk of soft food and let them chew the finger food.

Along with the food, it is important that you keep giving the baby a breastfeed to ensure that it gets proper nutrients and energy.

As the 12 month passes you can start reducing the frequency of breastfeeding and add more complimentary food.

For Spoilage Prevention

Food Catcher

Babies usually spill their food because they are still learning how to eat correctly. Most of the time, eating sessions become messy, and we need to clean their mess. 

Thankfully, a food catcher is right there to catch the foods that are spilling over the place, making your surroundings spill-free.

Things to Consider When Buying a Food Catcher

• Always know if the material of the food catcher is water-proof to ensure any liquids will not leak.
• Check if the radius of the food catcher is enough to catch the spilled food. 
• Also, there are various brands that you can choose from, so get the one with the highest quality keeping the budget in mind. 
• Know if it has a stylish design because if the catcher is attractive, they will wear it. 

Placemats 

Whenever babies are eating, they usually spill food on the table.  This prevents you from having a messy desk which is undesirable to have.

It will also make the eating experience of your baby healthier because spilled food on the table can accumulate germs, especially if your table is made of wood.

Things to Consider When Buying a Placemat

• Always check if the placemat has a good size so that it can accommodate all the food that might spill all over the place.
• Check the surface of the placemat if it is smooth because it is crucial when it comes to cleaning it effectively. A smooth surface will allow you to easily wash or wipe the placemat off when it is already messy.
• Always check if the bottom portion of the placemat is not slippery to ensure its stability at all times while your baby is using it.
• Ensure that the material of the placemat does not contain harmful chemicals and will not be hazardous to your baby’s health.

Bibs

Another option to protect your baby’s clothes from getting stains is by making them wear bibs. 

Things to Consider When Buying a Bib

• Check the bib’s material if it is gentle on the skin and made of soft and non-abrasive cloth.
• Know if the bib is comfortable to wear by checking if it is not too tight or loose on the neck of your baby.
• Check if the cloth is high-quality so that it will last for an extended period.
• See to it that the bib is compatible with both machine and hand wash.

Types of Bibs

Check the kind which will help you determine if it is the one that suits your needs. To give you an idea, here are the type of bibs that you can utilize for your baby.

• Feeding bibs – It will help you minimize or eliminate the bits of food on your floor with the help of this bib. It resembles the look of the original bib.
• Drool bibs – It catches the saliva effectively, so that baby’s clothes don’t mess.
• Disposable bibs – This is perfect for traveling since you do not have time to store or wash the bibs you just dispose of it in a trash can. It is also used just like the other types of bibs which are primarily aimed at catching bits of food and saliva.
• Smock bibs – It helps you roll up the bits of food into a disposable area so that it will not scatter all over the place.

Burp Cloth

It is given that babies need to burp after eating, and we want to make sure that they are protected from spills. Using a burp cloth will protect yours and baby’s clothing. 

Things to Consider When Buying a Burp Cloth

• Always know if the cloth is made of hypoallergenic, non-abrasive, and gentle cloth so that it will not irritate the skin of your baby.
• Check if the burp cloth is easy to wash and is compatible for manual and machine wash.
• Know if its edges are firm and well sewed to ensure that it will last long for extended periods.

Baby Seats For Eating

High Chair

This is an essential item that you’ll need when feeding a baby. Since babies are tiny, high chairs give your baby the ability to catch up with the height of your table, making them easy to feed whenever they are having their respective meals.

It also keeps them safe because a harness or belt is worn upon them when they sit to avoid any kinds of accidents. 

Things to Consider When Buying a High Chair

• The high chair is sturdy enough so that your baby is entirely safe when they are using it.
• The foundation should be firm which ensures that the high chair is super stable to use.
• Know if the high chair has cushions so that your baby will be comfortable when they are sitting on it.
• The high chair is adjustable so that it can cater any height of a table.
• Determine the weight of the high chair if it is tolerable enough so that you can quickly transfer its location from one place to another.

For a comprehensive buying guide, click here.

Booster Chair

If you want to have a chair that has an all-in-one purpose, then a booster chair is the best one. It can act as a chair and a table at the same time. 

Some of them also have an adjustable height, which will help your baby to eat at a comfortable level that they wanted concerning their length.

Things to Consider When Buying a Booster Chair

• See to it that the booster chair is comfortable so that your baby will feel at ease whenever they are sitting on it.
• Always check the weight if it is light enough so that it is portable.
• Know if the materials are sturdy enough so that your baby is completely safe while they are using it.

For a comprehensive buying guide, click here. 

Utensils

Self-feeding forks and spoons

When your baby starts to grow, you require safe self-feeding forks and spoons. This will help them learn how to eat independently. 

Things to Consider When Buying a Self-Feeding Forks and Spoons

• Check if the utensils have easy grip so that it will be hassle-free to use.
• It is better if the design is colorful so that the babies get attracted to it and use it. 
• Check if it is safe to use and does not have pointed ends and harmful chemicals in it.
• The handle should be non-slippery to avoid any accidents when your baby is using it.

For a comprehensive buying guide, click here. 

Plates and bowls

Always go for bowls and dishes that are made of durable and chemical-free plastics so that you have peace of mind that it is safe for your child.

Things to Consider When Buying Durable Plates and Bowls

• Know if the plates and bowls are non-toxic so that your baby will be completely away from harm while using it.
• It is a must that the plates and bowls must be pleasing to the eyes so that your baby will be excited to use it.

2-in-1 Spoon Feeder

A 2-in-1 spoon feeder can come handy while traveling as it dispenses food directly to the spoon. Thus, it saves you from the hassle of carrying a million things. 

Things to Consider When Buying a Spoon Feeder

• Check if the spoon feeder has a sufficient maximum capacity to contain a decent amount of food.
• It must have a smooth surface so that you can easily clean it when it is needed. 
• Choose a spoon feeder that can hold cold and hot food.
• It must be free from leakage so that your child will have a non-messy eating experience.
• The spoon feeder must not contain any harmful plastic or chemicals to ensure it is safe for your child.

Sippy Cup

A sippy cup can help babies develop grip because of its ergonomic design. It is the best way to teach them to hold and drink milk themselves. 

Things to Consider When Buying a Sippy Cup

• The design of the sippy cup must be attractive and child-friendly so that they will always be excited to sip on it.
• The sippy cup must not contain any harmful chemicals in it to ensure it is safe for your baby.
• Check if it is sealed so that the liquid inside does not leak while using.

For a comprehensive buying guide, click here.

Fruit Feeder

With a fruit feeder, you do not have to worry about your baby choking because it makes the fruit consumable. 

It squeezes the fruit and makes it in a puree form so that your baby can consume it with ease. 

Things to Consider When Buying a Fruit Feeder

• Check the fruit feeder has a comfortable handle so that it will be easier to squeeze the fruit inside.
• Its body must be utterly sturdy so that it will not break easily even if you use it every day.
• The maximum capacity must be enough to handle a decent amount of fruit puree.

Feeding Bottle

When it comes to feeding essentials, nothing beats the regular feeding bottle. It is used primarily for feeding your baby with milk and other healthy liquids to support their growth and development.

Things to Consider When Buying a Feeding Bottle

• It must have a well-calibrated measurement so that you fill it with accurate measurement.
• The feeding bottle body should be sturdy enough to take up sterilization heat.
• It must be securely sealed so that there is no leakage while using.
• The bottle weight should be light so that it is easy to carry.

For a comprehensive buying guide, click here. 

For Healthy Food Preparation

Toddlers Cookbook

It helps you learn the different nutritious recipes that you can cook for your baby to make your baby healthier. 

Things to Consider When Buying a Toddler’s Cookbook

• You must ensure that the toddler’s cookbook has an extensive collection of recipes so that you can make the most out of it.
• Check if it contains user-friendly recipes so that you will not have a hard time making them.

Sterilizer

One of the most important things that you must have when preparing foods for your baby is a sterilizer. It will let you clean the bottles to prevent bacterial contamination, which could lead to diseases like diarrhea, bacterial infection, and many more.

Things to Consider When Buying a Sterilizer

• Check if the sterilizer is easy to use so that you will not have any difficulties.
• The sterilizer should have a decent maximum capacity so that you will not have to redo often because you can accommodate enough products.
• Know if it has sufficient power to produce steam so that you have the guarantee that all your baby supplies will be cleaned thoroughly.

For a comprehensive buying guide, click here. 

Food Steamer

A food steamer steams and cooks the vegetables keeping the nutrients intact. These steamers come with a blender as well. So you can steam food and blend it in the same container. It is a lifesaver for parents. 

Things to Consider When Buying a Bottle Warmer

• Check if the food steamer has a decent maximum capacity so that it can surely handle even big feeding bottles.
• Ensure the steamer has an auto shut feature to avoid any problems. 
• Ensure that it does not consume too much electricity so that you can save some money from your bills.
• Inspect the steamer if it is user-friendly so that you do not spend a lot of time using the complicated functions.

For a comprehensive buying guide, click here.

Baby Food Blender

Babies need to eat soft foods to prevent choking. Soft foods also help them in absorbing the nutrients much faster, resulting in the better overall health of your baby.

Things to Consider When Buying a Food Blender

• It is essential to know if the food blender can blend hard food and has sufficient maximum capacity.
• Know the power consumption of the food blender if it is reasonable enough for its features. It is also perfect for people that are conscious with their electricity bills 
• Also, check if the food blender does not contain hard to understand mechanisms so that you will not have any difficulties when using it.
• Look for accessories when buying a food blender because some brands offer freebies such as a cookbook, scoop, etc.

For a comprehensive buying guide, click here.

Food Masher

Most people use blenders when grinding foods for babies since they do not have a complete set of teeth. A manual food masher comes handy when you are traveling. 

They are manual, handy, and easy to use, which is perfect for mashing the solid foods.

Things to Consider When Buying a Food Masher

• Know if the food masher is efficient enough in mashing foods by inspecting its materials if they are hard and sturdy enough.
• Ensure that the food master is not made of harmful chemicals because it is used in processing the foods of your baby.
• Check if the food masher has accessories that come along with the deal. By doing so, you will make the most out of your money.
• Inspect if it does not have hard to reach areas because it will make things easier for you when you clean it.

Bottle Brush

The bottle brush will help you clean the bottles thoroughly, especially the ones that have been filled with milk as we do not want any residue to remain at all times. By using a bottle brush rest assured that the feeding bottles of your baby are hygienic enough to prevent your baby from having stomach problems due to bacteria-infected drinks. 

Things to Consider When Buying a Bottle Brush

• Check the package if it has a complete set of bottle brush for all sizes of bottles.
• Know if the bristles are sturdy enough and can withstand everyday use.
• The body and tip of the bottle brush should be rust-free so that it will be safe to use at all times.
• Check if it is easy to clean and does not have hard to reach areas for an fantastic hygienic experience.

Food and Beverage Storage

Travel Bag

This item is essential in a way that makes everything organized when you travel. This is where you can keep the feeding essentials, diapers, etc. when you travel. 

Things to Consider When Buying an Infant Travel Bag

• Check if the diaper bag has a decent size so that you can put more items on it.
• Know if the materials are durable enough so that the bag will last extensively even if you use it every day.
• Check if the strap is comfortable to wear even if you load the bag with heavy objects. 

For a comprehensive buying guide, click here. 

Insulated Bottle

When you are traveling, you require to carry liquids for your baby. An insulated bottle will help, as it will help you retain the warm temperature of the liquid or soft foods making it still desirable to eat at all times.

Things to Consider When Buying an Insulated Food Container

• Check if the container is completely sealed so that the food of your baby is entirely safe from contamination and much more desirable to eat.
• Ensure that the materials do not rust because rust can cause diarrhea and other stomach infections.
• Know the size of the insulated food container if it can accommodate the needs of your baby.
• Check if it has a handle so that it will be easier for you to carry it wherever you go.

For a comprehensive buying guide, click here.

Reusable Food Pouches

It is perfect for having purees on the go, which is advisable for parents that are always outdoors. So the next time you are going outdoors rest assured that your baby will still get the foods that they deserve to eat especially they are in a stage of growth and development that’s why a proper diet is essential.

Things to Consider When Buying a Reusable Food Pouches

• Check if the reusable food pouches do not contain any harmful materials so that it will be entirely safe for use at all times.
• Know if the maximum capacity is decent enough to accommodate the drinks of your baby.
• Determine if until how many times you can use the pouches to check if it is reasonable for you to buy it.

For Baby Feeding Essentials Protection

Drying Rack

It is always better if you will have a drying rack for your baby’s feeding items. By doing so, rest assured that the feeding items are dehydrated before you use them.

Things to Consider When Buying a Drying Rack

• The drying rack if it is stable enough to hold various amounts of baby supplies.
• The drying rack should be made out of quality material so that it will last you for years.

For Breastfeeding

Breast Pump

It is essential to have one of these at your home so that you can have a sufficient supply of breast milk that your baby can drink from time to time.

Things to Consider When Buying a Breast Pump

• Know if the breast pump is super safe and gentle to use and will not hurt your breast or nipple.
• It must be easy to clean so that you can avoid any contamination that might significantly harm your baby.
• The breast pump must be easy to use so that you will not have any difficulties, especially when you need to feed your baby as soon as possible.
• It should be made of non-toxic chemicals so that it does not contaminate the milk.

For a comprehensive buying guide, click here. 

Nipple Cream

Nipple cream will protect your nipples from experiencing cracked skin and soreness. It is a must-have for the first-timers. 

Things to Consider When Buying a Nipple Cream

• Know the ingredients- it should not contain any harmful chemicals that can be bad for the skin and health. Also, know if you are allergic to any of the ingredients in it. 
• Determine the volume of the nipple cream if it is sufficient enough for long term use. By doing so, you will not have to buy frequently saving you time and money.

Nursing Bras

It would be difficult to breastfeed with the traditional bra. A nursing bra will make your feeding process simple. 

You should have extra sets because it may become wet and you may require one.   

Things to Consider When Buying a Nursing bra

• Check the size of the bra if it will fit your body type.
• Also, know if the materials used in the nursing bra is gentle and non-abrasive to the skin.
• See to it that it is very comfortable to wear.

For a comprehensive buying guide, click here.

Feeding Pillow

A nursing pillow will make sure that your baby will achieve proper height while breastfeeding. 

It will make them comfortable and at ease while they are drinking breast milk.

Things to Consider When Buying a Nursing Pillow

• Know if the nursing pillow has a super soft cushion which will make you and your baby feel comfortable while using it.
• The surface of the nursing pillow must be gentle to the skin so that you and your baby will not get irritated while using it.
• It must be lightweight and portable so that you can carry it anywhere.
• Check the materials if it is washable and durable enough so that it will last longer.

For a comprehensive buying guide, click here. 

We hope to have included all the feeding essentials for the baby. We advise that you use this comprehensive list so that shopping becomes easy, especially for the first-timers and you do not miss out on any item.