Everything You Need to go Back to Work Post-Babe Peace out, mat leave....
By Danielle Halibey | Photo by HATCH
With back-to-school season in full swing, we’ve been thinking a lot about another season that brings with it the same types of psyched, but scared-s***less types of feels: going back to work after baby. Whether you’ll be rejoining a traditional, office-setting 9-to-5, jumping back into a remote, WFH role or exploring a more flexible freelance situation, navigating a return to work after bringing a new babe into the world is hardly child’s play.
There are obvious anxieties (like the 24/7 Sunday Scaries, the omnipotent missing-baby-like-crazy moments, etc.) that go hand in hand with parental leave coming to a close and work popping back up on the life priority list, but then there’s also the background “Do I have everything I need here to get my baby the X, Y and Z that they need, when I’m not around” worries that wreak havoc on parents easing back into work lives.
We’ve chatted up moms and dads with “back to work” dates pinned in their planners and polled tons of new parents who’ve recently gone back to the grind to bring you a truly-robust roundup of items you’ll want staffed-up when getting back in the saddle goes down. Because these days, it’ll probably take more than a bigger-than-life latte and a well-timed banger on your Spotify playlist to get you adequately pumped for the exhausting days ahead.
Okay, so we’re not saying to spy on baby all day long (especially if they’ve got an all-star babysitter nearby)… but we’re also not saying that it isn’t okay to take a peek every once in a while. This leading smart baby monitor provides peace-of-mind and allows parents to keep an eye on their baby 24/7 and talk to or soothe them with the help of two-way communication right through the Nanit app. Photo courtesy of Nanit
Heading back to work won’t be nearly as fun without some chic 4th trimester pieces to usher you back into Game-On mode. Close deals, close loops and circle back all in comfort AND style with non-constricting, pump-friendly workwear that’ll keep you feeling great, even if you want to cry. Photo courtesy ofHATCH
This new-for-2022 pump was engineered for home, work and anywhere in between. With the world’s smallest breast shields, ultra-quiet motor, vacuum-boost technology™ and a sleek, go-anywhere design, The Pump is a total game-changer. We happen to loveee how easy everything is to clean, too, because at the end of the day, what mama really has energy to devote tons of time at the kitchen sink after getting home (we’d much rather see you spending time at the tub with your tiny one!)? Photo courtesy ofBabyation
Speaking of pumping… This app is amazing for keeping your spirits up during all the daily struggles. You can connect with feeding experts for virtual consults, bond with a non-judgmental community of parents in the same phase of life as you and get access to personalized articles and love notes based on your baby’s due date and back to work date to help you overcome challenges (like your latch, cracked nipples or baby biting) and reach your breastfeeding goals. Photo courtesy ofPumpspotting
Going to in-person meetings or hitting up Zoom calls with clients can be nightmares if you find yourself leaking or staining your favorite postpartum top. This HATCH pack of 3 pairs of nursing pads is durable, adorable and so, so soft and custom-designed to fit along the neckline of even the chicest demi bras. They come in a reusable cloth pouch, too, which you can just throw into any of your work bags. Photo courtesy of HATCH
If your baby will be bottle feeding (with breast milk or formula), you’ll definitely want to have their favorite bottles on board to avoid any food protesting issues when your caregiver’s on the clock. So, before you head back to work, do some test driving with a few bottle brands to figure out which shapes, designs and nipple options work best for your babe. Babylist’s Bottle Box, complete with samples of nanobébé, Comotomo, NUK, Dr. Brown’s and Olababy, is an awesome muse for your research. Photo courtesy ofBabylist
Who else sees a new water bottle and has to add-to-cart immediately? 🙋🏻♀️Yep, we’re right there with ya. The cool thing about this sleek glass and silicone style is that it shows you the recommended amount of water you should drink each day and provides you with a simple, intuitive, timed-guide to help you reach it. Just be sure you keep it at your desk and out of communal kitchen cabinets, because its steal-worthiness (seriously, peep all those color selections) is off the charts. Photo courtesy of bink
POV: you’ve gotten through your first day back, you’ve poured yourself a healthy glass of wine👈and you’re ready to relax. Well, this soothing bath set understood the assignment. With our Belly & Body Bath Soak, nourishing Belly Oil, exfoliating Smooth Belly Scrub and smoothing dry brush, you’ll have everything you need to turn your bathroom into a spa. Go ahead, take a breath, you’ve earned it, 100p. Photo courtesy ofHATCH
Once you’re finally back in business, getting sick and then having to call out sounds like unequivocal torture. That’s why staying healthy for the sake of your new baby, spouse and self is paramount. We’re obsessed with this small, but mighty two-stage filtered air purifier that cleans your personal air in any office setting and reduces common airborne irritants like dust, pollen, pet dander, smoke and odors. It’s so cute, you really need at least two! Photo courtesy of Pure Enrichment
Don’t just obsess over photos of your newborn on your phone, print them out and show them to everyone at the office because yes, they’re THAT cute. This photo printer is designed for travel and can easily fit into work bags, purses or backpacks — it’s a perfect item that won’t take up space on your desk! Simply use the free app to customize pictures from your phone (iOS or Android) then print glossy, mini (2.3”x 3.4”) sticky-backed photos for your cubicle, laptop or notebook. Photo courtesy ofHP
Do we even have to elaborate on this??! Currently available in two varietals, Pinot Grigio and Cabernet Sauvignon (with two more launching this fall), Mom Juice is our jam. The deliciousness goes down smoothly, but even better? The gorgeous bottles are the perfect complements to those #firstdayback in-feed posts. You’re obvi going to get ALL the likes, trust us. Photo courtesy of Mom Juice
