Post
Tummy Time for Baby's Development
Tummy Time: Why It Matters (and How to Make It Easier) Tummy time is one of those things you hear about early on in parenthood - right up there with sleep routines, feeding cues, and learning to drink a hot cup of tea while it's still warm! It’s recommended for your baby’s development, but the reality is, many little ones aren’t too thrilled about it at first. The good news? There are ways to make it easier for both of you. Before we get into the tips and tricks, let’s take a quick look at what tummy time actually is, and why it matters so much. Why is tummy time important? When your baby spends time on their tummy (while awake and supervised), they’re doing more than just working those tiny muscles. Tummy time plays a key role in helping to: Strengthen their neck, shoulders, arms, and back Support healthy motor development (like lifting their head, rolling over, and eventually crawling) Prevent flat spots on the back of their head (also known as positional plagiocephaly) It’s also laying the groundwork for milestones down the track. Chiropractor Dr Ainslee explains that, “Research has confirmed that tummy time not only helps children meet gross motor milestones like crawling, walking, and jumping. It also supports their social, cognitive, and learning development later in life.” So, what counts as tummy time? Tummy time doesn’t always have to mean placing your baby directly on the floor. It’s any time your baby is tummy-down while they’re awake and being supervised. Dr Ainslee puts it beautifully - it’s about “handling a baby in a way that naturally facilitates the development of interactive head control.” That means there are lots of ways to fit tummy time into your daily routine - even in those early newborn weeks. Gentle ways to start tummy time If your baby isn’t loving tummy time just yet, that’s okay. Start small and keep it gentle. Chest-to-chest: One of the easiest and most comforting ways to begin. Lie back and place your baby tummy-down on your chest. Skin-to-skin adds even more benefits. Football hold: Hold your baby tummy-down along your forearm, with your hand supporting their tummy and your other hand under their head. Keep them close - this one’s great for newborns. Across your lap: Another simple option that gives your baby some tummy time and lets you sneak in a burp or a cuddle. Baby expert Dorothy Waide encourages parents to start early, even just for a few seconds at a time. “The sooner you start, the quicker baby will adapt. If you begin with short bursts after each nap, you’ll soon find your little one starts to enjoy it more and more.” Making tummy time fun Tummy time doesn’t have to feel like a chore - for either of you. The more engaging it is, the more likely your baby will stick with it (and enjoy it too!). Try: Getting down to their level: Lie on the floor beside them, chat, sing, or just keep them company. Using mirrors or books: A mirror or a high-contrast board book placed in front of your baby can be fascinating for those curious eyes. Sensory toys: Toys like this Farm Activity Playmat are designed to make tummy time more exciting. It includes a removable cushion, a flip-up mirror, a delightful 3D farm animal, a squeaker animal, a teething toy, and an array of textures to touch and feel, making it an ideal companion for endless fun and learning. Supportive gear that can help The Little Bee by Dimples Baby Lounger is a handy tool for tummy time. It’s designed with a gently raised end that gives your baby the right angle to strengthen their upper body muscles in a supported way. The flat end provides a comfy space for rest - so it’s a multitasker. The Doomoo Softy is another great tummy time option — especially for younger babies. Drape your little one over the soft cushion so their arms and chest rest on it. It gently raises their upper body, helping them lift their head and build strength without feeling too flat on the floor. Plus, it doubles as a comfy feeding or lounging cushion when tummy time’s done. The takeaway? You don’t have to do it all at once — and your baby doesn’t have to love it right away. Like most things in early parenthood, tummy time is a journey. Start slow, keep it playful, and know that every minute counts. If you’re looking for supportive products to make tummy time easier, explore our collection of sensory play mats, baby loungers, and purpose-designed tummy time toys. You've got this.
Learn more
Bath Time With Baby - The Essentials
Bath Time with Baby 🛁 Bath time can be one of the sweetest parts of your day with baby. The warmth of the water, the calm rhythm of washing, and the giggles that follow all help to build those special moments of connection. Most little ones love the gentle splash of bath time, but if your baby isn’t quite a fan at first, don’t worry – it can take time. 💧 There’s no need to bathe baby every day – on quieter days, a quick top and tail (hands, face, and bottom) is enough to keep them feeling fresh. But when it is bath night, having everything ready can make all the difference. We recommend setting out your essentials beforehand: baby soap, a gentle shampoo, a soft flannel, and post-bath must-haves like a fluffy towel, a nappy, and clean clothes. 👶 Skip the jewellery during bath time to avoid any accidental scratches. And always check the water temperature before placing baby in the bath. The Shnuggle Pebbly Bath Thermometer lights up to let you know when the water’s just right – no guesswork needed. If you don’t have one handy, test the water with the inside of your wrist – it should feel warm, not hot. 🌡️ 🎥 New to bathing your baby? Watch our step-by-step guide linked here for gentle techniques and safety tips to help you feel more confident. Here are a few of our favourite bath-time essentials to help you get started with confidence. Shnuggle Baby Bath The Shnuggle Bath is a game-changer. Suitable from newborn to around 12 months, it features a supportive bump to help prevent slipping and a comfy foam backrest to keep baby cosy. Plus, it’s compact enough to fit in most kitchen sinks and uses just two litres of water – win-win. 🛁 Shnuggle Bath Stand Pair your bath with the Shnuggle Folding Bath Stand to bring baby up to waist height. A great option for easing back strain and ideal if you're recovering from birth. Shnuggle Toddler Bath When your little one starts to outgrow their newborn bath, the Shnuggle Toddler Bath offers extra room to play while still supporting their growing body with a padded backrest and non-slip surface. It's compact enough to fit into most bathrooms. Stokke Flexi Bath Need a space-saving or travel-friendly option? The Stokke Flexi Bath folds flat and can be used from newborn to age four (or up to six with the Extra Large Flexi Bath). It even has a clever plug that changes colour if the water’s too hot or cold – keeping bath time safe and simple. Muslin Wash Cloths Muslin Washcloths are a must-have for those early newborn days. Their soft, breathable fabric is kind on delicate skin – just what you need for gentle washes and little clean-ups. Lightweight and quick to dry, they’re practical for everyday use and only get softer with each wash. Gentle shampoo and cleanser Scullys Baby Shampoo & Body Wash is a gentle 2-in-1 formula made with soothing natural ingredients like chamomile and lavender. It’s tear-free, calming, and kind on sensitive skin – perfect for your new little one’s daily wash. An easy, nourishing choice for bath time that both you and baby will love. At Dimples, we’ve curated the best options to make bath time not just practical, but joyful. Whether you’re bathing your newborn for the very first time or transitioning to toddler tub life, we’re here to help every step of the way. 🐣✨
Learn more
The Power of Gratitude
The Power of Gratitude Parenting can be incredibly rewarding – but let’s be honest, it’s also really hard. Becoming a mum changes almost every part of your life: your body, your routine, your social life, even your sense of self. And while dads may not go through the physical toll of pregnancy, birth or breastfeeding, they still feel the effects of broken sleep, lifestyle changes, and the loss of independence. When you’re deep in the trenches of early parenting, being told to “count your blessings” can feel irritating at best. But frustrating as it is, there’s some truth to it. Research shows that practising gratitude can genuinely boost your mental health – and even shift the way your brain works. The power of positive language You can’t just switch on feelings of gratitude like a light. Emotions don’t work that way. But you can start building habits that encourage a more grateful mindset. A study from the University of Indiana found that writing about things you feel thankful for – even small ones – can help rewire your thinking over time. Focusing on positive words and thoughts, whether through journaling or writing gratitude letters, helps nudge the brain away from negativity and towards contentment. If you’ve got time, jotting down a few lines in a journal can be helpful. But even if you’re juggling a million things, you can still give it a go – a scribbled post-it, a chalkboard note, or adding to a family gratitude jar are all simple ways to start. Some parents even use social media as their own mini gratitude log. Whatever method works for you, the key is to do it regularly. Over time, it really can make a difference. Gratitude takes practice People who practise gratitude tend to cope better with stress, feel more optimistic, and have greater self-esteem. That said, it’s probably not the gratitude alone that makes life feel easier – it’s the long-term shift in how they view the world. Gratitude isn’t a magic fix. The change happens slowly, as your brain gets used to noticing and appreciating the good. By practising now, even in small ways, you may find you’re better able to enjoy the everyday moments later on. That said, if you’re feeling low for an extended period, or struggling with sadness or anxiety, it’s important to reach out. A gratitude journal is lovely, but it’s not a substitute for professional help. Talk to your midwife or GP – they’re there to support you. Give it a try Gratitude doesn’t have to be another thing on your already long to-do list. And there’ll definitely be days where you won’t feel remotely thankful for the mountain of laundry or a toddler’s meltdown. But on the days you can, take a moment – maybe when they’re finally asleep – to notice what you do feel grateful for. It might just make the ride a little smoother.
Learn more
How to Care for Your Baby with a Cold
How to Care for Your Baby with a Cold 🤧🍼 A common cold is a viral infection – rarely serious, but often upsetting for both baby and parent. These colds can last from one to two weeks and are caused by a variety of viruses. While babies are born with some immunity, their immune systems take time to mature, making them more vulnerable in the early months. The best thing you can do is ease their symptoms and keep them as comfortable as possible while their body does the hard work. And remember – catching a cold helps strengthen their immunity over time. Common Cold Symptoms in Babies: What to Look For Symptoms of a cold usually appear about three days after exposure to the virus. You might notice: A stuffy or runny nose (often clear at first, then yellow or green) Sneezing A cough Fussiness or irritability Reduced appetite Trouble sleeping Mild fever General fatigue It’s always a good idea to check in with your GP, especially if your baby is under three months old or if you’re unsure about any symptoms. When your baby is unwell, offer plenty of extra love and cuddles 🤱🏼 Let them sleep when they need to, even if it's outside of their usual routine – rest is just as important as remedies when it comes to helping them heal. Natural Remedies to Help Relieve Baby’s Cold Because a cold is caused by a virus, antibiotics won’t help – but there are plenty of gentle remedies that can. If baby has a blocked or stuffy nose, saline drops can loosen mucus and make breathing easier. You should be able to get this at a good chemist. Pair this with a nasal aspirator to help clear their nose. At Dimples, we stock two great options: Oricom Rechargeable Nasal Aspirator – gentle, quiet, and super easy to use. It’s a popular choice for parents wanting something fuss-free and hygienic. NUK Nasal Decongester – simple and effective, designed to gently suction mucus without irritation. Best Humidifier for Babies with Congestion The Crane 3-in-1 Cool Mist Humidifier with Aroma Diffuser & Sleep Support Light can be such a help when your little one isn't feeling their best. The cool mist adds moisture to the air, helping to soothe stuffy noses, dry coughs, and delicate skin - making it a little easier for baby to rest and breathe. You can also add a few drops of baby-safe essential oils to the aroma diffuser for a comforting, calming atmosphere. And during those quiet overnight cuddles or feeds, the soft glow of the sleep light offers just the right amount of warmth and reassurance💛 The Best Chest Rub for Babies with a Cold 🌿 For natural relief, The Nude Alchemist Baby Chest Rub is a gentle balm made in New Zealand with certified organic ingredients. It can be applied to baby’s chest, back, or feet to help clear airways and promote a more restful sleep. A comforting must-have for cold season. When to See a Doctor About Your Baby’s Cold If your baby is under three months old and showing signs of a cold, always check in with your doctor. For older babies, trust your instincts – if symptoms worsen or you’re concerned, a quick visit can help rule out anything more serious and give you peace of mind.
Learn more
Tips & Tricks for Travelling with a Baby or Toddler
Travelling with Kids: Your Fun, Fuss-Free Guide Heading off on a family adventure? Travelling with little ones can be full of magical memories – but let’s be honest, the planning and packing can feel a bit overwhelming. We’ve put together some handy tips and a comprehensive checklist to help make your trip smoother (and a lot more fun!). Before You Go: Planning Ahead Research your destination: Does your accommodation provide a cot, high chair, or other baby-friendly gear? Think about how you’ll get around too – will you need car seats or airport transfers? Book smart: When booking flights, don’t forget the extras. Request a bassinet if needed, look for seats with extra legroom, and pre-order kids’ meals. Check your airline’s baggage policy and what baby gear you can bring. Get your documents sorted: Make sure everyone’s passports are up to date (including baby’s – with at least 6 months’ validity). Don’t forget visas and any required immunisation records. Getting There: In-Flight Tips Arrive early: Give yourself extra time to get through the airport stress-free. Take advantage of priority boarding – it gives you a few bonus minutes to settle in before the crowd. Ears and altitude: Offer a bottle or breastfeed during takeoff and landing to ease pressure on their ears. A pacifier or sippy cup can also help. Keep boredom at bay: New toys or books they haven’t seen before can work wonders – try magnetic books, sticker books, or even a stack of post-it notes for endless sticking fun. Load up your device with baby-friendly apps or videos for those moments a toy just won't do. Snacks, snacks, snacks: Pack food you know they love – and plenty of it! Snacks can be both fuel and entertainment. Once You Arrive: Making the Most of the Holiday Stick (loosely) to routine: Keeping to familiar nap and mealtimes can help your little one adjust. But travel rarely goes perfectly to plan, so go with the flow where you can. Baby-proof your space: Once you get to your accommodation, do a quick scan of the room. Move anything hazardous out of reach so you can relax and enjoy your time away. Stay cool and sun-safe: Keep fluids up and protect sensitive skin with sunscreen, sunhats, and breezy clothing – especially in tropical destinations. Your Ultimate Packing Checklist (with links to products we love!) Important Documents: Passports and visas Luggage ID tags (don’t forget to label strollers and baby gear too) Travel insurance Carry-On Essentials: Nappies and wipes (pack more than you think you’ll need) Disposable change mats - super handy for when you're on the go Spare clothes for baby and you Swaddle or blanket Pacifier and a favourite cuddly toy Snacks and meals Bottles and formula (if needed) Baby-safe hand sanitiser - we love this one from Paume Toys and books Tablet with headphones Baby carrier for hands-free travel. Or a sling carrier for bigger kids For older toddlers, consider the Jetkids Bedbox by Stokke – a ride-on suitcase that converts into an inflight bed! Baby Gear & Equipment: A compact travel stroller (like the Stokke YOYO or Nuna Viaa Cabn) that fits in overhead lockers is a game-changer Travel cot if your accommodation doesn’t provide one – bonus as it doubles as a play space! For bigger kids, the Stokke Cloud Sleeper inflatable bed is a great option White noise machine - we love the Yogasleep Hushh Stroller fan for warm climates Insect nets for cot and pram Car seat – different countries have different rules, so it's very important to research ahead. We recommend the Maxi-Cosi Nomad for its light weight and compact size (suitable from approx. 15 months to 4 years) Portable blackout blinds for the room, or even a stroller shade to help with daytime naps Clothing & Accessories: Weather-appropriate clothes, including wet bags for damp items Sleep sacks (bring one your child is used to, and adjust for warmer/cooler climates) Sun protection – sunhats, sunglasses, and lightweight layers Feeding: Bottles or sippy cups Enough formula or food for the trip (plus some spares) Bibs, burp cloths, and baby-safe detergent Changing, Hygiene & Health: Nappies and wipes (pack for a few days, then restock locally) Sunscreen and insect repellent Baby-safe medication, thermometer, and first aid basics Travel-sized toiletries and nappy cream Once you’ve nailed your list, save a copy for next time. A notes app on your phone works perfectly! Bon voyage and happy travels with your mini adventurers! ❤️
Learn more
Beginning your baby on solid foods
Starting Solids: A New Chapter in Your Baby’s Feeding Journey Introducing your baby to solids is an exciting milestone for both of you! It’s a time for new tastes, textures, and the inevitable messes that come with it. But as your baby reaches the six-month mark, it’s time to introduce them to new foods to complement their milk diet. For the first six months, your baby relies on iron stores from the womb and breast milk or formula. But as those iron stores begin to deplete, solids are needed to boost their nutrition. It’s recommended to continue breastfeeding or bottle-feeding alongside solids until your baby is 12 months old. Solids at this stage complement, rather than replace, their milk feeds. You can also start offering small amounts of water after six months, either in a sippy cup or with meals, to help your baby stay hydrated as they transition to solids. Signs Your Baby Might Be Ready for Solids Here are some signs to watch for that indicate your little one is ready to start eating solids: They seem hungry after milk feeds Can sit up with support and hold their head steady Show interest in your food, possibly reaching out or opening their mouth Make chewing motions when they see food Open their mouth when a spoon comes near The right Approach for Your Baby There are different ways to approach weaning. Spoon-feeding (offering purées or mashed foods), Baby-led weaning with finger food or a combination of both. There is no one "perfect" approach. The best method is the one that feels safe, enjoyable, and sustainable for your family. This book by Annabel Karmel is a great resource, filled with advice and recipes.. What matters most is offering nutritious foods (including iron-rich options), sharing pressure-free, positive mealtime experiences and supervising baby around food. With patience, consistency, and a little flexibility, you'll be helping your baby build a lifelong healthy relationship with food. Baby’s First Taste: Making Mealtimes Memorable Starting solids can be an exciting and slightly messy adventure! You can begin with simple, iron-rich foods to complement their milk diet, such as: Iron-fortified rice cereal mixed with breast milk or formula Purées of cooked vegetables like pumpkin, kūmara, or carrot Mashed avocado – easy to prepare and great for baby’s first tastes Purée of cooked apple or pear – mild, easy-to-digest options Purée of cooked chicken or beef – an excellent way to introduce iron A fantastic way to offer baby their first tastes is with the b.box Silicone Fresh Food Feeder. Simply pop in soft fruits or steamed vegetables, and let baby explore with a self-feeding method that doubles as teething relief. Make Mealtimes Easier with the Right Tools The right tools can make the journey into solids so much easier – and a little less messy! The Zazi Clever Spoon Set is designed for tiny hands, and paired with the Clever Bowl with Lid, they're perfect for portioning, feeding, and storing leftovers. The b.box Roll + Go Mealtime Mat keeps the mess contained, while the classic Mum2Mum Wonder Bib or the Mum2Mum Sleeved Wonder Bib makes sure your baby’s outfit stays clean, even on the messiest of days. After all, less laundry means more cuddle time! Moving to Mash As your baby approaches seven months, they’ll likely be ready to try foods with a thicker consistency. Offer them mashed or fork-mashed foods like ripe banana, avocado, small pasta pieces, or cooked egg. These textures are easy for your baby to swallow and great for practicing chewing. At this stage, avoid harder lumps like whole peas, which can pose a choking risk. Embracing Independence Around 8 Months Around eight months, your baby may begin showing an interest in feeding themselves. They may grab the spoon and try to feed themselves – it’s messy, but it’s also a great opportunity for developing their hand-eye coordination. Give them a chance to explore, but always stay close by to offer a helping hand (and a napkin)! We’re Here to Help At Dimples, we know starting solids can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’re always here to support you with expert advice and product recommendations. Visit us in-store or contact our friendly team for any questions – we’ve got everything you need to make this adventure as fun and easy as possible.
Learn more
All about Baby Wearing – Finding the Right Baby Carrier for you
All About Babywearing: Finding the Right Fit for You and Baby 👶 Babywearing is a beautiful way to stay connected with your little one while keeping your hands free for everyday life. Whether you're folding washing, grabbing groceries, or just enjoying a walk, having your baby close can offer comfort, ease, and reassurance for you both 🤱. Carriers are designed to support your baby while reducing the strain on your arms and back. They also help foster that deep bond in those early months – especially when your baby simply wants to be held close. For breastfeeding parents, babywearing can also offer a practical way to nurse on the go. It may take a little practice at first, but with some patience, it can become second nature – a gentle rhythm of feeding and cuddling, all while moving through your day. Safety First: Babywearing with Confidence Wearing your baby safely is the most important part. You should always be able to see your baby’s face, and they should be positioned so their hips are spread in the “M” position, with knees higher than their bottom. To help guide safe babywearing, keep the T.I.C.K.S. rule in mind: Tight In view at all times Close enough to kiss 😘 Keep chin off the chest Supported back These five simple points help ensure baby is secure, well-positioned, and comfortable in any carrier. Carrier Options at Dimples At Dimples, we stock a thoughtfully chosen range of baby carriers to suit different lifestyles, preferences, and parenting styles. Whether you’re looking for a soft wrap for newborn snuggles or a structured carrier for extra support, our team can help find the right fit for you. Nuna CUDL Clik The Nuna CUDL Clik is designed to make babywearing feel natural and easy – right from day one. With four magnetic buckles, it’s quick to put on and adjust, even if you’re flying solo. The breathable mesh keeps you and baby cool, while padded shoulder and waist straps offer extra support for longer days on the go. Suitable from newborn up to 16kg, the CUDL Clik offers four carry positions and ergonomic support to encourage healthy hip development. Crafted with OEKO-TEX® certified fabric, it’s soft, safe, and gentle against baby’s skin. Ergobaby Omni Deluxe The Ergobaby Omni Deluxe is a great option if you're after a versatile, all-in-one carrier. It supports newborns through to toddlers (up to 20.4kg), with four carry positions including front and back. With padded, adjustable shoulder straps (which can be worn crossed or straight), this carrier is designed with your comfort in mind too. It’s recognised by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute for its ergonomic design, and is available in soft, breathable mesh or classic cotton fabrics. Boba Wrap For those early days, the Boba Wrap Carrier offers a wonderfully cosy and supportive option. Made from soft, stretchy fabric, this wrap moulds gently to your baby’s shape while giving you the freedom to move. It’s ideal for newborn cuddles, and with a one-size-fits-most design, it’s simple to learn and easy to wear 🤍. Try Before You Buy at our Dimples store Choosing the right carrier is a personal decision, and it's important to find one that works for both you and baby. At our Dimples stores in Auckland and Christchurch, all of our carriers are on display and ready to try. Our experienced team will be there to help guide you through the options, show you how each carrier fits, and answer any questions you might have about babywearing. We’re here to support you – every step of the way 💛
Learn more
Formula and bottle-feeding tips for new parents
Everything you need to know about bottle feeding During the first year, your baby goes through a great deal of growth and development. Most babies triple their birth weight by the time they hit their first birthday – so it’s no wonder they need lots of energy to grow! While it’s widely acknowledged that ‘breast is best’, choosing how you feed your baby is an important and completely personal decision. For some women, personal circumstance, cultural beliefs and physical or mental wellbeing mean breastfeeding isn’t an option, and therefore a safe alternative is required. If you’ve decided to bottle-feed (if you’re thinking about it, speak with your midwife, doctor or nurse first), it’s vital to have clear and well-informed information on the safe preparation and use of formula. Here’s what you need to know about formula-feeding your wee one: About baby formula Most formula is made from modified cow’s or goat's milk so the protein level isn’t too high and babies can digest it. Unlike regular milk, formula has added minerals, vitamins, and fats essential for human growth and development, and when prepared correctly, it contains enough nutrients for healthy growth in babies. In New Zealand, there are strict manufacturing regulations in place to make sure that the formula in your local supermarket is always of good quality and safe for your baby. But that doesn’t make the baby aisle any less overwhelming. Here’s a quick breakdown of the kinds of formula you can buy: Cow’s-milk formula Most cow’s-milk formulas sold in New Zealand have a similar nutritional profile – so price doesn’t necessarily mean one is better than another. Casein and whey are the proteins in breastmilk, and cow’s-milk formula has the same proteins. It will either have more casein or more whey – you can find the percentage of each noted on the formula’s ingredient label. Key points: Your baby’s first formula should contain whey as the main type of protein, as it’s the easiest to digest. Some formulas will be labelled ‘follow-on’ or ‘step 2’ – these are casein-dominant formulas best suited for babies aged six months and over. They’re also designed for hungrier babies who are not yet old enough to start solid food. Your baby can stay on the first formula for 12 months and as you start to introduce solids. If your child isn’t reacting well to cow’s-milk formula and you suspect an allergy, it’s best to seek advice from a healthcare professional who can advise you on alternative types of formula. Goat’s-milk formula This type of formula also contains whey and casein proteins, but the casein protein is slightly different from that in cow’s milk. It contains beta-casein (rather than alpha-casein) which is more easily digestible. Again, you can find the protein ratios outlined on the nutritional label. Soy infant formula Made using soya beans as a source of protein, soy infant formula is a vegetarian option. It’s best to seek advice from a healthcare professional before switching to the soy alternative. Gold formula Gold formula contains extra ingredients which aren’t strictly necessary for your baby – but may be beneficial. Here we explain a few: Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs). Thought to be important in the development of the brain and eyes. Alpha-lactalbumin. Thought to be nutritious for babies because it’s the main type of whey protein in breastmilk. Pro and prebiotics. These help promote the growth of good bacteria and may help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria. May be good for eye health. How to prepare baby formula Before you get started, always carefully read and follow the instructions on the formula tin – not all formulas have the same size scoops or are prepared in the same way. Check the use-by date and dispose of formula if it has expired. Bottle-feeding equipment Here’s what you’ll need to bottle-feed: Large bottles (saves you buying new ones as your baby grows) Bottle rings and caps Teats (either silicone or latex is fine, graded according to size of the hole or age of the baby) Bottle brushes Teat brushes A steriliser (optional) Check our handy guide to bottles and teats here! Making up a bottle of formula Step 1 : Boil the kettle and let the water cool for about 30 minutes, until it has reached a lukewarm temperature. You can also do this in advance, storing the cooled boiled water in sterilised bottles in the fridge. Step 2 : Pour the lukewarm water into the bottle before carefully adding the scoops of formula powder (levelling the powder with a clean knife or the tin's in-built level). Seal the bottle with a ring and cap, then shake gently to encourage the powder to dissolve. Step 3 : Before feeding your baby, check the temperature of the formula by tipping a few drops on the inside of your wrist – it should feel lukewarm. Never add anything to the formula, and if your baby doesn’t finish the bottle, throw any leftover formula away within an hour. Warming infant formula If you are not feeding your baby straight away, place formula in the fridge immediately (store at the back of the fridge) with a cap over the teat to prevent contamination. It can be stored for a maximum of 24 hours. Once removed, it’s only safe to use for up to one hour. The safest way to warm formula is to stand the bottle in a bowl of warm water for no longer than 10 minutes as harmful bacteria can grow in prepared formula. After warming, gently swirl the bottle to mix the formula, and test the temperature. If it’s too hot, cool it down by putting it in a bowl of cold water or by running it under the cold tap. Microwaving bottles is not recommended because uneven heating of the milk can burn your baby’s mouth. Cleaning and sterilising Hygiene is essential – your baby’s immune system isn’t strong enough to fight off some diseases yet, and formula-fed infants are at higher risk of gastrointestinal infection. You need to clean your bottles, teats, rings and caps after every feed and before you sterilise them. Tips for cleaning bottle-feeding equipment: Wash all bottles, rings, caps and teats in hot soapy water. Squirt water through the teat holes and use a bottle brush to ensure that everything is scrupulously clean, getting into all those nooks and crannies, then rinse well. Check for any cracks in the teats and throw away any damaged ones. Rinse everything well in hot water and leave them to air dry. After you’ve cleaned your equipment, you need to sterilise everything by boiling, steaming, or with chemicals. Boiling - To sterilise a baby bottle by boiling, place the disassembled bottle parts into a large pot and cover them fully with water. Bring the water to a rolling boil and let it boil for at least 5 minutes to ensure all parts are thoroughly sterilised. Use clean tongs to remove the items and place them on a clean, dry surface to air dry completely. You can buy electric (plug-in) or microwave steam sterilisers. These units 'cook' your equipment at a temperature high enough to kill bacteria. If using chemical sterilisers , follow the instructions on the box or packet. If you’re unsure, seek help from a professional Don’t be afraid to take your time deciding about feeding your baby. The most important consideration is that your baby is comfortable and well-fed, and you’re able to enjoy this special (albeit exhausting!) time with your newborn. Get the information you need to make an informed decision, and if you’re not sure, consult with your health professional, who’s in the best position to give you accurate advice for your baby and his or her needs.
Learn more
Remembering the Precious Times
The days are long but the years go fast! When you’re deep in the baby days, it can feel like time is crawling – but somehow, those tiny toes and gummy smiles slip by in a blink. One minute they’re curled up on your chest, the next they’re racing down the hallway in gumboots. It’s not always easy to stop and take it all in, but future you (and your child) will be so grateful you did. Here are seven lovely ways to capture those fleeting, precious moments. Here are 8 ways to hold onto those little moments ❤️ 1. Keep a journal from bump to babyPregnancy is a season you’ll never forget – and yet, somehow, the details get fuzzy. A journal makes it easy to jot down milestones, memories, and feelings throughout pregnancy and those early newborn weeks. Whether it’s the first kick, a dream you had, or your late-night list of baby names, these snippets will one day become priceless. 2. Save those tiny printsLittle hands and feet don’t stay little for long. A casting kit or impression set is a beautiful way to preserve the size of your baby’s hand or footprint in time. If you’d prefer something bigger, the Petit Artichaut Baby’s First Year Memory Frame is a beautiful alternative – designed to showcase a photo from each month of your baby’s first year alongside a cast or print. It’s a keepsake you’ll treasure forever. 3. Write them a letterIt doesn’t need to be fancy – a few lines on your phone, a scribbled note in a baby book, or an email you save for later. Writing your child letters throughout their early years is a heartfelt way to share what life was like, what you noticed, and how deeply they were loved. 4. Create a home for keepsakesFrom hospital bracelets to first curls, it’s easy to gather a box of “special things” with no real place to put them. The Petit Artichaut Imprint Box offers a charming way to store and display those first small treasures – whether it’s their first lock of hair, their first lost tooth, or something uniquely your own. 5. Capture quotes and milestonesThe things toddlers say are often hilarious, surprisingly insightful, and unforgettable – until they are. A memory jar in the kitchen or a simple notes app on your phone makes it easy to jot them down in the moment. These snippets of daily life will bring the biggest smiles down the track. 6. Frame the moments that matterPhotos on your phone are great, but there’s something special about seeing them every day. The Petit Artichaut Duo Frame is a lovely way to frame meaningful images – maybe their first bath and first birthday, or a newborn photo alongside your ultrasound and a space for a foot or handprint and a clay model of those little hands or feet too. It’s a gentle reminder of just how far you’ve both come. 7. Record it all in a baby record bookFor a classic, timeless way to record milestones, the Your First Years Book or the Peter Rabbit Baby Book are both beautiful choices. These charming books offer space for photos, memories, and all the little details you’ll want to remember, from their first smile to their first steps. With prompts to help you capture key moments, it’s a keepsake that will take you down memory lane for years to come. 8. Record a second a dayApps like 1 Second Every Day make it incredibly easy to film one moment each day and turn it into a time-lapse of your baby’s growth. It’s simple, low-effort, and incredibly powerful – especially when the year wraps up and you get to watch your tiny newborn become a confident little human. There’s no right or wrong way to capture the early years – only what feels right for you and your family. Whether it’s snapping a quick photo, scribbling a sweet moment in a notebook, or tucking away a tiny hospital bracelet, each memory adds to the beautiful story you’re creating. These baby days pass in a blur, but the little things you save along the way will become treasured reminders of just how much love and magic filled those early moments ❤️
Learn more
