Ep.5 Building the Nest: Essential Gear for New Dads

Ever wondered why parenting doesn't come with a manual? Join us on Instructions Not Included as we unravel the essentials every new dad needs to know. From mastering diaper duty and feeding strategies to the secrets of a perfect swaddle, this episode promises to equip you with practical tips and must-have baby gear that will make those early days a breeze. Learn why stocking up on diapers and wipes is crucial, how to handle bottle sterilization the old-school way, and why a comfy rocking chair could be your best ally against sleepless nights.

Beyond the basics, we dive into smart strategies for navigating the overwhelming world of baby gear. Discover the value of research and reviews, the significance of prioritizing functionality over flashy gadgets, and the long-term benefits of investing in quality essentials. Plus, we pose thought-provoking questions to help you prepare creatively for diaper duty and support your partner's feeding choices. Tune in, share your own tips in the comments, and let's tackle parenthood together with confidence and a touch of humor!

Boppy Pillow

Transcript

Speaker 1: 0:00

Instructions not included. Episode 5, building the nest. Essential gear for new dads. We're talking diaper duty, feeding, swaddling and soothing. Let's get it.

Speaker 2: 0:22

Yeah, this dang car life doesn't come with a manual. It doesn't come with a way to go. The instructions not included. Stay tuned. Any topics we discuss, we can use it. This dang car life doesn't come with a way to go. It doesn't come with a manual. Yeah, you can search. I swear back now, like Jay-Z, the blueprint.

Speaker 1: 0:43

Ooh, now let me play one Welcome back Today on Instructions Not Included. We're talking baby gear and yes, it can be overwhelming, but fear not, guys, because you don't need every fancy gadget under the sun. Today we'll focus on some essential items that will make your life and your partner's life a whole lot easier in those early days with your new baby. Truth is, baby gear can be confusing, but here's some essential must haves. Diapers but here's some essential must haves.

Speaker 1: 1:24

Diapers Babies grow fast, so be sure to have different sizes and trust, you can never have enough. So stock up the same with wipes, stock up. It's also good to have a changing pad for those sudden blowouts. I know it won't help with those apocalyptic projectile poops that some babies be having, but yeah, a changing pad is a must. Oh yeah, and be sure to keep some diaper rash cream bottles, if not exclusively breastfeeding. A bottle sterilizer is optional but handy. But hey, if you can't afford a sterilizer, after cleaning those bottles, just dip them in some boiling water and cover them with a towel or place them in a clean area until you're ready to use them. That's old school but still effective.

Speaker 1: 2:12

Burp cloths and bibs they are a must. And at least one boppy pillow or something like it. If you're not sure what a boppy pillow is, check the link in the description or Google it. What a boppy pillow is, check the link in the description or Google it. Swaddle blankets are magic for calming a fussy newborn. Learn the art of the swaddle and become a soothing pro. A good baby monitor, a white noise machine or a smart speaker like Google Nest, where you can tell it to play hard rain and it'll continuously play rain and thunder sounds Something like that could be very soothing to anyone. Oh yeah, and a comfy rocket chair these are your allies in the fight against sleepless nights.

Speaker 1: 3:01

Hey, let's go beyond the basics. Here's some additional tips to consider. Number one do your research, read reviews, compare prices and don't be afraid to ask for recommendation from experienced parents. Number two focus on functionality. You don't need every trending gadget. Just prioritize items that will make your daily routine smoother. Number three think long term investments in some quality basics that will grow with your baby. Hey, they won't stay tiny forever. Remember dads. You don't have to be the gear guru, but having a few essential items on hand will give you the confidence to tackle those early days of parenthood like a champ. Quick quote the days are long, but the years are short, cheryl Richardson. Now look here, dads, getting ready for your little one's arrival is exciting, but amidst the baby gear frenzy, remember to enjoy this special time with your partner.

Speaker 1: 4:07

And before I get out of here, as always, questions for the dads. And before I get out of here, as always, questions for the dads. Question number one dads to be what are some creative ways you're preparing for diaper duty? Any tips or tricks you've learned? Number two is your partner planning to breastfeed or bottle feed, or a combination of both? How can you best support her feeding choices? Number three beyond the essentials, are there any specific baby gear items you're particularly excited about or curious to try? If so, leave them in the comment. Hey, thanks for joining me. Dads, don't forget to like and subscribe to Instructions Not Included for more dad-centric advice on navigating the wonderful world of parenthood. Hey, we're in this together and, dads, be sure to jump into the comments and share your favorite baby gear must-haves or any questions you might have. We'll see you next time.

Speaker 2: 5:11

It doesn't come with a manual. Yeah, you can search, we'll be right back. No, I need tea. You're all one Sweet fight baby.