6 Top Tips to Make Night Feeds Easier for New Parents
Three months ago, I had the joy of welcoming my son, Angelo, into the world. Like many new mothers, my journey with breastfeeding has been filled with its own set of challenges, particularly as I recovered from a C-section. Thankfully, combi-feeding (a combination of breastfeeding and bottle-feeding) has been a saving grace, allowing family members to bond with Angelo while helping lighten the load during those sleepless nights.
In this article, I’ll share six tried-and-true tips that have made our night feeds more manageable. Whether you’re a first-time parent or simply looking for ways to make night feeds easier, I hope you find these tips helpful.
1. Prepare a Night-Time Caddy for Easy Access
One of the simplest yet most effective things I’ve done is to set up a night-time caddy right by my bed. This portable station is stocked with all the essentials like nappies, wipes, and burp cloths, so I don’t have to go hunting for supplies in the middle of the night.
A well-organized caddy reduces disruptions during night feeds, meaning I can get Angelo fed, changed, and settled back to sleep with minimal fuss. I’ve found it especially helpful when I’m groggy and need everything within arm’s reach.
2. Plan Ahead to Soothe Your Baby Back to Sleep
Babies tend to wake frequently during the night, so having a strategy to soothe them back to sleep is crucial. For Angelo, using a swaddle or sleep sack has worked wonders. These options help reduce his startle reflex and make him feel safe and cozy.
While not all babies like being swaddled, Angelo finds it incredibly soothing. Another helpful tool has been the MAM Soother, which provides comfort and helps settle him during fussy moments. Not only does it calm him down, but it also helps ease him back into sleep.
Interestingly, some research suggests that using a soother while your baby sleeps may reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). This is incredibly reassuring, especially for new parents like me who are constantly worrying about their baby’s safety.
Also read: Effective Postpartum Weight Loss: A Comprehensive Guide
3. Keep Your Baby Close at Night
Having Angelo’s cot right next to our bed has made night-time care much more convenient. This arrangement, often referred to as room-sharing, makes it easier to respond to his needs throughout the night without getting up repeatedly. It’s a safe option and provides a comforting closeness that strengthens our bond.
This setup offers peace of mind, as I can quickly check on Angelo and ensure he’s okay. It also reduces the risk of SIDS, according to many experts who recommend keeping your baby close during the first six months.
4. Sterilise Bottles and Pumps in Advance
When you’re exhausted at 3 a.m., the last thing you want to do is clean and sterilize bottles or pumps. To avoid this hassle, I make sure to prepare everything in advance. By sterilizing all of Angelo’s bottles and breast pump equipment before going to bed, I know everything is ready when I need it.
This simple step can save so much time and stress, making those night feeds smoother and faster. Whether you’re breastfeeding, pumping, or bottle-feeding, having everything prepped ahead of time is a game-changer.
5. Involve Your Partner in Night Feeds
One of the best things about combi-feeding is that it allows my partner to take on some of the night feeds. By pumping milk in advance, Angelo’s dad can help with feeding while I get some much-needed rest.
Sharing the responsibility has not only helped me recover physically, but it’s also given my partner a wonderful opportunity to bond with Angelo. It ensures our baby is well-fed and cared for, while also giving me a chance to recharge.
If you’re not combi-feeding, you can still involve your partner by having them help with diaper changes, soothing the baby back to sleep, or simply offering emotional support during those challenging hours.
6. Create a Maternity Cabinet for Yourself
While tending to your baby’s needs is important, it’s also essential to take care of yourself. I’ve set up a small maternity cabinet near my bed, stocked with personal essentials like nipple cream, breast pads, snacks, and water.
This little stash helps keep me comfortable during night feeds, and it ensures I have everything I need to get through the night without having to leave the room. Hydration and nourishment are crucial for new mums, especially if you’re breastfeeding, so having quick access to snacks and water can make a big difference.
Our Trusted Products: MAM Anti-Colic Bottles and Soothers
Throughout our feeding journey, I’ve come to rely on a few products that have made night feeds more comfortable for both me and Angelo. The MAM Anti-Colic Bottles have been a lifesaver, thanks to their innovative vented base that helps prevent symptoms of colic. Angelo seems much more comfortable after feeds, which means we both get more rest.
Additionally, the MAM Soothers have been a constant in our nighttime routine. They provide that extra bit of comfort Angelo needs to drift off to sleep, and knowing that they may reduce the risk of SIDS brings me even more peace of mind.
Conclusion: Simplifying Night Feeds for New Parents
Night feeds are a reality for every new parent, but with a bit of planning and preparation, they can become much more manageable. From setting up a well-organized night-time caddy to involving your partner in feedings, these simple steps can make a world of difference during those sleep-deprived nights.
Remember, every baby is different, and it’s important to find what works best for you and your little one. Whether it’s swaddling, using soothers, or simply having everything prepped in advance, the goal is to make night feeds easier so you can focus on enjoying those precious moments with your baby.
FAQs
1. How can I make night feeds less disruptive?
Having a night-time caddy, preparing bottles in advance, and keeping your baby close by can help minimize interruptions during night feeds.
2. What’s the best way to soothe a baby back to sleep?
Using a swaddle or sleep sack can help soothe your baby by reducing their startle reflex. Many parents also find that using a soother works well for calming fussy babies.
3. Should my partner help with night feeds?
Yes! Involving your partner in night feeds, whether through bottle-feeding or offering support, can provide you with much-needed rest and give your partner a chance to bond with the baby.
4. How do I avoid colic during night feeds?
Using anti-colic bottles, like the MAM Anti-Colic Bottles, can help reduce symptoms of colic and make night feeds more comfortable for your baby.
5. What items should I keep in my maternity cabinet?
Consider keeping nipple cream, breast pads, snacks, water, and other personal essentials in a maternity cabinet by your bed to stay comfortable during night feeds.
Also read: The Seven Stages of Night Feeds: A Parenting Rollercoaster
