Caring for grandchildren when they are babies is a joy, and having the right tools can make the experience even better. Times have changed since I was a first-time mum and, let me tell you, there are so many new time-saving gadgets on the market that would have made things a lot easier when adjusting to motherhood. I certainly had more energy back then, so luckily for me as a new grandparent, these gadgets exist to make my life a lot easier. I have found that the simple things are often the best, and the gadgets that have helped me out the most are not always the most expensive ones. I have found some great bargains and second-hand deals when stocking my house with these items. There are so many useful gadgets on the market, but these are my personal top 5 items that have made my grandparenting journey smoother.
1. Baby formula prep machine
Investing in a baby formula prep machine
was a game-changer for me during the early months. I opted for the Tommee
Tippee Perfect Prep Machine. Its seamless operation made bottle preparation a
breeze. No more waiting for bottles to cool – just add water, formula, press a
few buttons, and voila! It's a time-saving wonder that can be placed in any
room for those late-night feeds. When you're half asleep with a baby who does
not want to wait to be fed, having a gadget that makes the process quick,
simple, and easy really does make a big difference. There are many other bottle
prep machines on the market, so do your research and explore various options
and ensure you find the right one for you. Once my grandchildren have grown
past the stage of needing bottles, I will be able to pass this on so it can be
reused.
Pro: Time-saving
Con: Takes up space
Shop: Amazon Tommee
Tippee
2. Portable milk powder containers
These handy little pots allow you to take pre-measured portions of milk powder out and about. All you need to do is pop open the lid and add the powder to the bottle - it's as easy as that! This simple little invention has made a big difference when taking the grandkids out. They are light-weight and portable and I have found the lids to be very secure. Even better, the ones I have are dishwasher safe. I would highly recommend these lightweight, portable little pots to anyone looking after babies for the day. Now my grandchildren are toddlers, I still use these pots for things like raisins and blueberries when we are out and about.
Pro: Convenient for on-the-go
Con: Some lids can spill so read product
reviews
Shop: Boots John Lewis
3. Microwavable sterilizing bags
Simplify sterilization with microwavable sterilizing bags. These bags can be used for bottles, dummies, teethers, and more. Just add the recommended amount of water, pop them in the microwave, and within minutes, everything is sterilized. I opted for Ardo Easy Clean, and with five bags providing 100 steam cleans, it's both cost-effective and reusable. Remember to follow the manufacturer's instructions for safety.
Pro: Reusable and cost-effective
Con: They do get very hot so be careful and
always follow instructions
Shop: Amazon
4. Your own baby bag
One thing I have come to learn is that you should never rely on new parents to remember everything when they drop off your grandchildren. Being a new mum is hard enough, and having to remember every little thing that baby needs for the day is not always possible. I have found that having my own bag that contains all the bits baby needs for a day out makes life easier for both me and my daughter. There are many different styles of baby changing bags on the market, so depending on your style and needs you are guaranteed to find one to suit you. I have found that second-hand sites such as Vinted are a gold mine for finding high quality bags for less.
When looking for a baby bag, I came across ROKA backpacks. I have used a ROKA bag for work for the past 4 years and have always found it reliable as well as stylish. They have multiple pockets for nappies, spare clothes, and all the other essentials I need when caring for my grandchildren. They are durable and easy to clean and the fact that ROKA is a UK based, sustainable company is a plus for me. While it is an investment, it is really worth it for the quality. It would make an excellent gift for any new parent or grandparent.
Pro: Convenient, durable, stylish
Con: Nothing!
Shop: ROKA London Mamas & Papas Vinted
5. White noise machine
Anyone who has looked after a baby overnight knows the challenges of getting them to settle at bedtime. For me, investing in a white noise machine was a life-saver. They mimic the sounds that babies hear in the womb and can create a comforting, soothing environment. My granddaughter always struggled to settle for her naps, but she loved the sound of the white noise and I feel it definitely made a big difference for her. To start with, the sound was not so soothing for me, but when you have two babies to get to sleep, anything that helps is good in my books! I must admit that after a while I got into the white noise too and now I find it so relaxing too.
There are many different white noise machines on the market so do your research to find the right one for you. I would personally recommend the Dreamegg D11 Sound Machine, as it is rechargeable and easily transportable. It has 11 different sounds to choose from and also doubles up as a night light.
Pro: More sleep for baby, more sleep for Granny!
Con: Can take a while to get used to the sound
Shop: Dreamegg
I would love to know what your top Granny
gadgets are. Leave your recommendations in the comments below. Let's build a
list for grandparents navigating the exciting world of baby care!
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