Our pick of the must-have brands for your new baby checklist

Words Apphia Michael

THE NEW BABY CHECKLIST

Nuna LEAF

With my two-year-old toddler currently in need of constant attention, a newborn baby on the way (and the realisation that I won’t be able to grow an extra pair of hands anytime soon), I’ve sorted myself out with some handy babysitting in the form of this intuitive little baby lounger by Dutch design-led baby gear company, Nuna. Designed to mimic the motion of a falling leaf, this smart-looking baby chair gently sways from side to side without the need for batteries or excessive rocking from parents – motion is activated with just one gentle push and lasts for two minutes. Rather helpfully, Nuna has also introduced LEAF Wind, a mini-motor that attaches with a simple click to the base of the LEAF, blending in seamlessly to give the option of non-stop gliding action for baby in the form of 6 speed settings. Even with the motor on, I’m amazed to find that the seat moves without any sound, so soothing and lulling baby to dreamland when it’s time to sleep will be a breeze, as is using it as a calming relaxation space for baby to sit and watch the world when he’s awake. As an added bonus, this extremely sturdy rocker is suitable from birth to a whopping 60kg, which not only means that it’ll grow with your tot, but older kids will be able to join in on the fun too. A wonderful example of form meets function.

LEAF, £160; LEAF Wind, £70;
nuna.eu/uk

Tiba + Marl Elwood backpack

I’ve come to the conclusion that backpacks are categorically the way forward when you’re out and about with a little person – think of all the times you’ll need to carry your newborn bundle in a sling, chase after an active toddler, or manoeuvre London’s challenging public transport system (let’s face it, the last thing you need to worry about is removing things from the pushchair if it needs folding up). The recent fashion trend for backpacks means there are a lot of non-’mummy’ options out there, but do you really want sippy cups, nappies, and baby paraphernalia sloshing around in the same hollow space as your makeup, wallet and keys? No. Disguised in incredibly chic tumbled black faux leather finish and fashioned with chunky metal zips, this nappy bag is a mama’s dream with multiple compartments such as an insulated bottle holder, laptop pocket and smart phone pocket. It even comes with a compact change mat and a waterproof clutch which can be used as a separate bag in itself, thanks to an accompanying cross body strap. All of this, gorgeously packaged into a contemporary modernist silhouette that is as far away from the traditional nappy bag stereotype as can be.

£120; tibaandmarl.com

Repose Ams blanket

It dawned on me that one of the first things my baby will feel on his skin shortly after he’s born is a blanket. Given the fact said blanket will no doubt also feature in countless first-moment photographs, it was important to find that perfect one to wrap my new arrival up in. I recently discovered these beautiful creations by Amsterdam-based label Repose AMS. Designer and founder In-Yeo Couperus aims create pieces that focus on quality and longevity, and the result is an understated yet luxurious blanket that look as good as it feels. Made from the highest premium quality lambswool, it’s the perfect candidate for baby’s first coming-home blanket. Measuring at a roomy 85 x 100 cm – much larger than the average newborn receiving blanket – it’s also going to be a great investment piece for the nursery. I just know it’ll serve to comfort little one – whether it be for travel or general snuggling – well into toddlerhood and beyond. I’ve chosen this cosy soft grey number for my boy, but it comes in a whole host of other lovely shades too – indigo blue, almost white, olive green and elegant terracotta stone.

€75.00; repose-ams.com

Leander Cradle

Living in central London makes space somewhat of a big consideration for me and my rapidly expanding family. My husband and I plan on having the baby bunk in with us for the first 6 months while we search for a bigger family home, so hunting out the perfect-sized crib that won’t take up too much precious floor space in the bedroom has been top priority. This ingenious cradle by Leander, designed to be suspended from the ceiling with just one simple hook, is the ultimate space-saving solution. Not only is its sleek minimalist Danish design a beauty to behold, it’s also practical, as the cradle can be moved from room to room with the addition of extra hooks and folded flat for storage when baby is ready to move on to a big cot. It can also be used in conjunction with a gorgeous tripod-style floor-standing beech frame and a dreamy white canopy. Both configurations play on the fact that the cradle is fixed to a single point, allowing for it to sway in any direction with little force. The rocking motion set off by baby’s movement will comfort and soothe as it mimics what he would have felt in the womb, while also stimulating motor skills by making him conscious of his body’s movements. A generously comfortable, welcoming space for any infant, yet compact and understated enough to blend seamlessly into the smallest of urban spaces.

£330 for the full package (includes cradle, mattress, sheets, topper, tripod and canopy); huggle.co.uk