A baby stroller is often one of the most essential baby purchases you will make as a parent. Just as each baby is different, so is each stroller and the ‘stroller-needs’ of every family. They are critical in your baby’s early years (and even later when you’re dealing with a tired toddler or pre-schooler!). If you are a mum who plans well in advance, we would advise you to try using a few options (the new mums in your baby due date club would love it if you offer to push their bub around!). From lightweight umbrellas and buggies to complete heavy-duty travel systems, narrow city strollers to big, twin or combi buggies and many more, find the stroller that is right for you.

Read More: Stroller Friendly Hikes Hong Kong – Easy Hiking Trails And Accessible Walks

Points To Consider While Choosing A Stroller

How do you know which pram is suitable for you? There are a few factors to keep in mind:

For what ages is it suitable and is it newborn-compatible?

Newborns need to lie flat and strollers meant for them have to recline completely. If you’re in the market for a stroller for a toddler who only needs it for a quick nap on a hot day, an umbrella stroller that doesn’t recline much should work well.

How easy is it to fold the stroller?

Ease of foldability is an important deciding factor, especially in Hong Kong, when you need to navigate public transport. The size the stroller folds down to matters as well. Get used to terms like one-hand fold, compact fold, cabin-fold (for flights), etc. and watch videos to understand how your chosen stroller scores in this department.

How heavy is it to carry?

The weight of the stroller matters if you walk a lot in Hong Kong. While a heavier stroller usually means a less bumpy ride for your baby, it’s a nightmare at MTR exits that don’t have lifts.

Does it allow you to attach a car seat?

If you own a car or take a lot of taxis, it’s good to get a stroller that’s car seat-compatible. Also, if you travel home frequently where car seat laws are stricter than in Hong Kong.

Can you attach a buggy board to it?

Planning a second (or third) baby? You might want to check if a buggy board can be added on to your stroller.

Does it have storage?

Having a baby means carrying food, diapers, a changing mat and a whole lot more. A good stroller should be able to accommodate all of that, along with your weekly grocery bags!

How much does it cost?

This plays a key role in your decision. Do keep an eye out for second-hand strollers that come up for sale on Facebook groups and in your baby groups.

There are some non-negotiable factors while choosing a stroller, like safety of the buckling system, manoeuvrability and sturdiness. There are other factors too, like how long you plan to use the stroller, but it’s always a possibility that your baby has different plans from you! Keeping whatever is possible to plan in advance, we’ve spoken to different mums around town and lined up our favourite baby strollers in Hong Kong!

Read More: Shopping For Baby – Download A Checklist Of What You Need

Cybex – Compact and stylish strollers with optimal functionality

Cybex is known for merging innovation with distinctive design, high safety standards and smart functionality, naturally making it a popular stroller option for parents. The COŸA is Cybex’s first ultra-compact travel pushchair that can easily fold up to fit airplane cabins. Cybex’s strollers are also lightweight, provide a breathable backrest and adjustable seat which you can lay flat for newborns – all in all, an investment you won’t regret!

Ages: From newborn to approximately 4 years old.
Price: $5,499
Where To Buy: mothercare, mothercourt and Jakewell.

leclerc Baby – Stroller that folds with the touch of one button

A new favourite among Hong Kong Mamas, Leclerc is a Dutch brand that offers innovative strollers. The leclerc Magicfold Plus and Influencer series strollers are ultra lightweight and fold and unfold with the touch of just one button! It lies practically flat and fits in overhead compartments – perfect for jet-setting tots. Plus, it comes with additional accessories such as a coffee cup and rain cover.

Ages: Birth to 5 years.
Price: From $3,890
Where To Buy: Various retailers across Hong Kong, Yoho Hong Kong.

Read More: How To Get A Passport For Your New Baby In Hong Kong

GB Pockit – Baby strollers that are built to last

GB Pockit strollers are built to last and the Pockit+ All-City stroller is a great one for Hong Kong Mamas! It has a wide range of customisable options that adapt to your lifestyle, a recline function that provides ultimate comfort and an ultra-compact folding mechanism perfect for travelling.

Ages: 6 months to 4 years. 
Price: From $2,890
Where To Buy: Booknshop, Yoho Hong Kong

Read More: Baby’s 100 Days Celebration – Customs To Know And Party Planning Tips

Stokke BABYZEN YOYO2 – Popular and versatile stroller ideal for urban parents

The BABYZEN YOYO strollers are always a popular pick with parents in Hong Kong and now they are part of the Stokke family. The YOYO² has a newborn pack and fits just about anywhere – it can even be folded and slung over your shoulder! This version lets you clip your car seat onto the stroller frame without having to remove the fabrics.

Ages: From birth to 4 years.
Price: From $4,470
Where To Buy: Various shops in Hong Kong, including Mothercare, Baby Central and Petit Bazaar

Bugaboo – Stroller that comes with a bassinet and mattress

Bugaboo has several options that might be a good fit if you’re looking for a higher-end option. The Bugaboo Fox 5 bassinet and seat stroller has large, puncture-proof wheels, 5 point safety harness and is designed to fold and manoeuvre with just one hand! It also comes with a bassinet and a mattress.

Ages: From birth to 4 years.
Price: From $13,499
Where To Buy: mothercare Hong Kong

Combi – Strollers with EggShock technology for extra protection

Combi strollers have a unique design to provide the ultimate protection for your baby. The Combi CROSSGO has EggShock technology to protect the newborn’s head and body, air suspension to absorb shock and 19cm mega wheels for stability.

Ages: 1 month to 4 years.
Price: From $2.399
Where To Buy: Various retailers across Hong Kong, HKTV Mall

Read More: Where To Find The Perfect Baby High Chair – Stokke, Combi And More

Chicco – Offering a wide range of baby strollers

These experts know a thing or two about all things baby. Their impressive range of strollers is worth considering when you are on the lookout for a new set of wheels. The compact Goody is a great option for urban travel.

Ages: Birth to 4 years
Price: From $3,898
Where To Buy: Chicco

Doona Car Seat Stroller – World’s first infant car seat and stroller

Doona is the world’s first infant car seat and stroller in one. Who doesn’t love simplicity and efficiency? We know we do! It transforms from a car seat to a stroller in three seconds flat!

Ages: Birth to 15 months.
Price: From $4,280
Where To Buy: Doona Hong Kong

Read More: Where To Buy Customised Gifts That New Mums Will Love

More Baby Strollers In Hong Kong:

• Phil & Ted’s GO – Umbrella stroller that is lightweight and can be turned into a double stroller. www.philandteds.com/go-buggy
• Maclaren Triumph – Lightweight and compact baby stroller. Available at ChopChop Baby.
• Britax Romer Stroller – Compact and one-hand-fold stroller. www.britax-roemer.com.hk
• Quinny – A variety of strollers to suit your lifestyle. www.quinny.com/strollers
• Aprica Luxuna Comfort – Provides durable body protection, UV light protection and multi-directional body shock absorption. www.aprica.com.hk
• Inglesina Twin Sketch – Double stroller with easy manoeuvrability and comfort. Available at Eugene Baby.

Read More: Toddler And Baby Stores In Hong Kong – Shop Baby Gear And More

Editor’s Note: The Best Baby Strollers In Hong Kong And Where To Buy Them was most recently updated in May 2024 by Anita Balagopalan. 

The post The Best Baby Strollers In Hong Kong And Where To Buy Them appeared first on Sassy Mama.

Needless to say, sound sleep is important for babies and we want to provide the optimal setting for our babies to snooze. If you’re an expecting Mama on the hunt for the best baby cots and cribs, we’ve got you sorted with convertible cribs that grow with your baby and functional cots that best suit Hong Kong homes.

Read More: Kids’ Sleep – How Much Sleep Children Need And Why

Bopita Convertible Bed My First House, $5,480

Usable in three different ways with mattress height adjustment, transform your baby cot into a day bed as your bub grows. Also, get creative with the roof frame by hanging sensory toys or your child’s artwork as they explore their imagination!

Read More: Where To Buy Kids’ Furniture In Hong Kong – From Nursery Gear To Decor

IKEA ÄLSKVÄRD Baby Cot, $2,699

A reasonably-priced baby crib that is compact and suitable for Hong Kong homes. As your baby grows into a toddler, you can remove the frames on one side of the baby cot and convert it into a bed – a guard rail comes with a cot to prevent your child from falling over in their sleep.

Childhome Bedside Crib With Wheels, $1,999

With nine different height adjustments, secure your baby cot next to your bed (comes with a support strap) to have your baby sleep on the same level as you, making it easier to keep an eye on them. There’s also ample storage space to keep any toys or baby essentials! We also recommend adding a canopy to your cart because it looks dreamy whilst also keeping away mosquitoes!

Read More: Baby Shops In Hong Kong For Toys, Clothes, Gifts And More

Tutti Bambini CoZee Bedside Crib, $1,919

Functionality is the name of the game here – with a simple and quick setup, the CoZee cot is perfect for parents who are on the go. The breathable mesh window, storage shelf and incline function to avoid acid reflux all make this crib a favourite choice.

Stokke® Sleepi V3 Mini Cot, $3,980

Snuggly and secure, the curved crib is compact and comes with lockable swivel wheels for keeping the bed close to you. Plus, the flexible design allows parents to get an extension set to use the crib for up to 5 years.

The post The Best Cribs For Hong Kong Homes: Where To Buy Baby Cots appeared first on Sassy Mama.

Having a baby in Hong Kong can get expensive. There are plenty of stores and sites that stock the best, most popular and essential baby items. However, most of us don’t have the space to store bulky items and years’ worth of clothes and toys, strollers and high chairs. Sometimes you want a little more control over what you’re getting without a hefty price tag, so we’ve compiled some great free and paid libraries and swap-it venues where you can get second-hand baby items. Not only is it greener for the planet, but it’s also lighter on your wallet!

Jump To:
Things To Consider While Buying Second-Hand Baby Items
Where To Rent Or Share Baby Items
Where To Buy Second-Hand Baby Essentials In Hong Kong
Forums For Second-Hand Baby Items
Facebook Groups For Second-Hand Baby Items In Hong Kong

What To Consider While Buying Second-Hand Baby Items

Not everyone will be comfortable with reusing baby essentials, especially when it is a question of hygiene. You may be more comfortable borrowing or reusing baby gear when it comes from a friend or family member. However, if you keep the following points in mind, you will feel a lot more at ease with the idea of recycling and reusing baby gear:

• Always examine the items you are going to purchase, especially when it comes to items that have moving or breakable parts.
• Check on guarantees and warranties for electronic items.
• Make sure that the item is one that can be carefully and completely cleaned and sanitised. This may not be the case for baby mattresses, as well as car seats and strollers where the padded material is not detachable.
• Look up reviews of items that you are purchasing as well as current safety guidelines, as these may have changed since the original user purchased the baby item.

Sites And Stores To Rent Or Share Baby Items

There are a few places around Hong Kong where you pay a membership or rental fee to borrow or rent something for a period of time and when you’re done with it, you just return it or swap it for something else. This can range from libraries for books (the most obvious example) to those for toys that are built to last! Breastfeeding mums who want to pump for a short period of time (perhaps those going back to work) can also look at a rental model.

Happy Baton

Happy Baton is dedicated to keeping quality toys in the cycle and using professional cleaning and thorough disinfection when the toys come back to them. It will help guide you in choosing the best toys for your child’s developmental stage, and if your little one is not a fan, just swap it for something new!

Happy Baton, hello@happybaton.com.hk, www.happybaton.com.hk

Hong Kong Toy Library

Hong Kong’s first public toy library is located inside the Central Library in Causeway Bay and has four play corners to suit different age groups and themes (Baby Play Corner, Pretend and Imaginative Play Corner, Creative Play Corner and Activities and Games Play Corner). You can reserve a play session in person or by telephone in advance.

Toy Library, 2/F Central Library, 66 Causeway Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong, 2921 0386, www.hkpl.gov.hk

Read More: Public Library Services In Hong Kong – Taking Your Kids To The Library

Medela

Breastfeeding mums are often big fans of Medela breast pumps, especially the hospital-grade Symphony model. Although this model is expensive ($23,900), renting is much more affordable. Besides a $6,000 deposit, you can pay per month or for up to a six-month period and opt for monthly extensions, if you continue to express breastmilk.

Medela at Celki, various locations across Hong Kong, WhatsApp (for rental): 9752 0998, www.medelashop.com.hk

Where To Buy Second-Hand Baby Essentials In Hong Kong

Babies grow out of their clothes fast, so it makes perfect sense to recycle the clothes. Another item that they might want a lot of is books. After all, you can only read Dear Zoo and Goodnight Moon so many times!

Retykle

Retykle carries nursery furniture, strollers, car seats and more. There’s no better place to find designer baby and kids clothing without the fancy price tag (pay for the quality rather than the label). Because you buy second-hand rather than borrow items here, you do have the option to sell them back to Retykle once your baby has outgrown the clothes.

Retykle, 8/F, 44 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Sing Teck Building, Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong, 3594 6533, WhatsApp: 5596 3446, hello@retykle.com, www.retykle.com 

Gathered HK

Gathered HK is a pre-loved baby clothing store where you can get barely used rompers and wonder suits for as little as $50. Donating in Hong Kong is not always easy but Gathered HK accepts all children’s clothing brands, including fast fashion ones.

Gathered HK, WhatsApp: 7074 0081, www.gatheredhk.com

Green Baby

A green social enterprise under the management of Caritas, Green Baby sells a wide range of second-hand baby products for charity to support unmarried and young mothers.

Green Baby, Room 15A, 3/F, Block C, Hong Kong Industrial Centre, 489-491 Castle Peak Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 3426 4584, greenbaby@caritassws.org.hk, www.facebook.com/caritas.greenbaby

reBooked

This social enterprise aims to promote a circular economy and zero-waste lifestyle by collecting used children’s books and selling them through its online shop and newly-opened retail store. Not only does reBooked save hundreds of books from our landfills, but it also promotes early childhood literacy by encouraging a love for reading at a young age.

reBooked, 1/F, 9 Mee Lun Street, Central, Hong Kong, hello@rebooked-hk.com, www.rebooked-hk.com 

Forums And Classified Sites For Second-Hand Baby Items In Hong Kong

Hong Kong has plenty of online forums and classifieds where you can look for second-hand baby items. Where possible, always check the items before you buy them.

GeoExpat

This online forum often has a good collection of strollers, baby carriers, toys and furniture.

GeoExpat, www.geoexpat.com

AsiaXPAT

This forum is often popular with foreigners for its wide range of baby, children’s and family essentials.

Asia Xpat, www.hongkong.asiaxpat.com

Carousell HK

This online classified site is ideal for those looking for anything, from furniture to toys, musical instruments, baby carriers, car seats and more.

Carousell HK, www.hk.carousell.com

Read More: Where To Buy Kids’ Furniture And Decor For The Nursery In Hong Kong

Facebook Groups For Second-Hand Baby Items In Hong Kong

Other than classified sites and forums, there are plenty of swap-it groups online. These are great options for cribs, changing tables, playmats, high chairs, strollers and other big-ticket second-hand items. Here are some more active ones where you’ll likely find something good.

Child & Baby Stuff Buy, Sell, Swap Hong Kong!

Here, you’ll be able to buy, sell and swap clothes, books, toys and all the items you need to raise a baby in Hong Kong.

Join Child & Baby Stuff Buy, Sell, Swap Hong Kong!

Baby And Mommy Stuff Marketplace

This is a platform were Mamas and Mamas-to-be can buy, sell or swap unwanted or used maternity wear, baby clothes and anything related to baby stuff.

Join Baby And Mommy Stuff Marketplace

Baby-Swap-It

This private Facebook group is a great place to pick up some pre-loved baby furniture or bigger toys and necessities like the Jumperoo or a bouncer. You have to act quickly in this group though as the best items get snapped up quickly!

Join Baby-Swap-It

Nearly New Kids

This is similar to Baby Swap It but has a smaller community, so there are fewer things to sort through.

Join Nearly New Kids

Cloth Diaper Chat and Swap Hong Kong

This is where to look if you want to pick up pre-loved cloth diapers, as some are barely used. The group is also full of lovely parents who are willing to answer questions and help troubleshoot cloth diaper issues, including yours truly!

Join Cloth Diaper Chat and Swap Hong Kong

Hong Kong Breastfeeding

Quite often you’ll find a mama offloading pre-loved pumps, pump parts or breastfeeding clothes among other items. It’s also a friendly community in which to ask questions and a lot of the time pre-loved items are passed on for free.

Join Hong Kong Breastfeeding (women only)

Editor’s Note: “Second Hand Baby Clothes And Pre-Loved Baby Gear In Hong Kong” was most recently updated in April 2023 by Najuka Redkar.

The post Second Hand Baby Clothes And Pre-Loved Baby Gear In Hong Kong appeared first on Sassy Mama.

Ever ridden a Hong Kong taxi with a baby and stroller in tow only to find yourself being honked at by busy commuters? Or struggled to climb up stairs and uneven pavements with your toddler and your bulky pram? We know just what it feels like. And that’s why we love the versatile BABYZEN YOYO², the stroller that’s just perfect for Hong Kong parents.

It will grow with your child, morphing from bassinet to stroller to car seat to buggy board and more. Here’s why we think the BABYZEN YOYO² needs to join your growing family (and find out where you can buy it).

BABYZEN YOYO² is one stroller for newborns to toddlers

You can use the BABYZEN YOYO² right from Day 1. You’ll need the 0+ newborn pack or bassinet option (which lies completely flat).  The lightweight 6+ version is suitable from 6 months and up (until the child is 22kgs).

BABYZEN YOYO² gets you through Hong Kong streets with ease

As many Sassy Mamas in the office will attest, the “soft drive” system makes it easy to push and manoeuvre the stroller, the single-movement design means you can fold or unfold it single-handedly, and the weight makes it easy to carry (either on your shoulder with a padded strap or with a backpack) when you to get on to trams and buses (or tackle expected stairs). The new, individual suspensions on all four wheels mean that when in use, your bub will have a safe and bump-free ride.

Travel is back! And the BABYZEN YOYO² is your companion

It fits into a plane’s overhead cabins so you don’t need to check it in at the gate, perfect for families that love travelling. A BABYZEN YOYO² is built to last for generations. You will be using it for Baby #2 (and #3 and #4….) and it is compact enough to be stored away for when it’s not in use.

Carseat adapters make taxi rides with BABYZEN YOYO² a breeze

All parents want their precious bundle to be safe. You can attach a car seat to the BABYZEN YOYO², an essential for travelling safely in Hong Kong taxis. It’s quick and easy to detach too, so you can fold and store the stroller at your feet while you hop into the taxi (no more pileup of angry drivers behind you!). 

Innovative, personalised, European design

Considering that the BABYZEN YOYO² was first designed by French fathers, you can be sure that this brand knows a thing or two about being très chic! You can personalise your stroller with any of the nine bright fabric colours and two frame options.

Keen to know more? Head to the NotTooBig Mega Baby Expo to check out the BABYZEN YOYO² for yourself and you’ll also be able to grab great discounts and offers.

BABYZEN YOYO², www.babyzen.com

The post We Take A Closer Look At The BABYZEN YOYO² Baby Stroller appeared first on Sassy Mama.

Pregnant mamas everywhere love to shop and get prepared for the new arrival. And sometimes they go overboard (we have all been there!) and get things that they don’t really need or never use. We can never really say for sure how many clothes your baby needs, or how many diapers he or she will go through in a day. We don’t know which stroller or diaper bag is right for your family’s needs, but after speaking to a lot of mums, we have arrived at a newborn baby essentials checklist that should help you with your shopping. So when that nesting instinct kicks in, don’t go buying everything you see at the store. Look at this comprehensive baby essentials checklist, add some to your baby shower registry and then pick up what you most need or love. We’ve divided each category into must-haves and optional items because space and financial constraints differ for everyone.

Many of the things you might buy for baby beforehand (like sippy cups or straw bottles) won’t come in handy for months; so we have focused on newborn essentials that will get you through those first few bleary months. Click on the checklist below to download. Happy shopping, mamas!

Read more: Baby And Toddler Stores In Hong Kong: In-Store And Online

Shopping For Baby: Clothes

Must-Haves

Bodysuits/Onesies/Kimono tops: Your baby will live in these so you can’t have enough (long or short sleeves). To have a wide range, you could get a lot from any of your favourite stores (M&S, Next, etc. have a nice selection) and opt for some special onesies from Ganas Kids, The Wee Bean and the like. There are some great sustainable kids’ clothing brands in Hong Kong that you would love to try for your bub. Snap or tie-front kimono tops are also a good option for newborns as you don’t have to pull them over their teeny tiny delicate heads! We like the options from Naomi Wear.

Hand mittens: Essential from the get-go to keep baby from scratching itself; particularly since cutting baby fingernails can be pretty terrifying for parents!

Sleepsuits/Pyjamas: Depending on how your bub will sleep, you may want footed or footless pyjamas.

Optional items

You don’t need too many of these items. Whether you will need socks, sweaters and hats for your bub usually depend on when you are due (how hot/cold it is) and your baby’s temperament. Many little ones kick accessories off as soon as you put them on.

Shoes and dress-up outfits are probably only for special photoshoots, 100-day celebrations and the like.

Read more: Baby Clothes In Hong Kong: Our Favourite Baby Clothing Stores

Shopping For Baby: Cleaning And Changing Items

Must-Haves

You will be amazed by how often you need to clean your baby. In the early days, it often feels like an endless cycle of pee, poop, throw up and more! Stock up on baby wipes, diapers (reusable options preferably) and make sure that you have a place to change your baby. If you don’t have the space for a fixed changing table or station, you will probably need a portable changing mat that will help you change your baby at the most convenient spot. Of course, the same changing mat can also be used on the go.

Other personal care items that you will need will be soap or shampoo (often it’s one baby wash for all needs), some oil or lotion and diaper cream for sore bottoms.

Optional Items

Depending on whether you have space for it, you can always get a baby bathtub or a diaper pail. If not, trust your maternal instinct – you will discover a way to bathe and clean your baby even in a tiny Hong Kong bathroom!

Read more: 5 Reasons Why You Should Cloth Diaper And How To Do It Right

Shopping For Baby: Sleeping And Nursery Furniture

Must-Haves

Cot/bassinet/co-sleeper:

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that newborns sleep in the same room with their parents (for six months at least), but not in bed with them (due to suffocation risks), so a small, portable bed like a Moses basket/bassinet or co-sleeper might be best. If baby will sleep in a crib, make sure it’s on a flat surface free of blankets, bumpers or drop-rails.

Mattress And sheets: Depending on your nursery furniture, mattresses and fitted sheets will be needed. Try to make sure that these fit perfectly and there are no large gaps left where your baby can get stuck in as they thrash their hands and legs about.

Swaddle blankets: Many mums swear by swaddle blankets; chances are you’ll receive heaps of them as baby shower gifts. If you’re like us, have the nurses at the hospital teach you their folding techniques because they are true pros!

Sleepsack: Since blankets are not recommended for newborn babies, sleepsacks or a “gro” can help keep your baby warm at night. However, some babies never quite get used to it so buy just one to try out.

Optional Items

One tip to all new mums – diapers leak. Sometimes because they are full and at other times because you forgot to fasten it correctly! A waterproof sheet or mattress protector would help.

Also, if you would like to keep your baby stimulated and lying down in his or her cot for a while, try using a mobile. Of course, babies can’t focus very clearly (or very far) in the first few weeks so it might be a while before your little one notices it.

If you have a car and plan to spend the day at a friend’s place or even do a family staycation, you could invest in a travel cot.

Read more: 5 Ways To Kit Out A Nursery Without Breaking The Bank

Shopping For Baby: Health And Safety Items

Must-Haves

Newborn babies can be quite delicate and you have to be careful about a few things. A thermometer to check baby’s temperature is always important (speak to your paediatrician about which one is best). At the same time, ask the doctor if there are any medicines that you should keep as an SOS. While you will not want to administer any drugs without checking with a medical professional, there are some over the counter (OTC) remedies that can help with less serious but equally uncomfortable baby ailments, such as colic, constipation, cradle cap, etc.

Do remember to keep clipping your baby’s nails as these grow out really fast. Use a nail cutter or baby scissors for this.

Sassy Mama tip: Always cut nails right after a warm bath. The nails are so tiny and soft, they almost peel off when they have been well-soaked!

Optional Items

You know the extent of your love when you have sucked the snot out of your baby’s nose! Don’t worry, it isn’t as bad as it sounds. Snot suckers can be a lifesaver for babies with colds (and their exhausted mums!). We love the Nose Frida one but there are others that work as effectively. A balm to soothe eczema, diaper rash, mosquito bites (if you are in a rather green area of Hong Kong), etc. can be helpful as well.

Read more: Baby Skincare Products That The Whole Family Will Love

Shopping For Baby: Feeding Items

Must-Haves

While we all know that breast is best, breastfeeding can be a challenge. Whether you choose to breastfeed your babies for years or wean them early, whether you love the skin-to-skin contact or would rather pump and bottle feed instead, there are some items that can make this easier.

Nursing bra: This will make breastfeeding in public a lot more comfortable and discreet. Here’s where you can buy nursing bras in Hong Kong. While you’re at it, stock up on v-neck tees or button-down shirts/dresses!

Breast pads: Engorgement and leakage are inevitable joys of the first six weeks while your body settles into its breastfeeding rhythm. Best be prepared, mama!

Burp/washcloths: These come in handy if your bub struggles with reflux or drools. Also, remember to burp your newborn after every feed and expect a little bit of spit-up.

Breast pump: Obviously a must for any breastfeeding mama but it’s quite an expense to consider and you need to do your research well. If you are not sure of what your breastfeeding journey will be like, perhaps you could rent or borrow one, to begin with.

Bottles: We have listed this as essential because whether drinking formula or breastmilk, your baby will almost definitely need bottles. As with a breast pump, it may be better to see what suits your baby best before buying too many of these. Some babies want fast-flow bottles and teats while others will gag on those. It’s always a bit of trial and error.

Milk storage containers: If you’ll be storing excess milk in the freezer, make sure to stock up on sturdy, sealable bags or have enough bottles to use. If you choose not to or cannot breastfeed, you may not need these, but you are likely to need formula containers that help you carry the exact amount of powder you need per feed when you are not at home.

Optional Items

Nursing pillow: We found this made nursing a lot more comfortable in the first couple of months (otherwise your arms and back will get awfully achy from all those feeds), but you could probably find any number of suitable pillows around the house!

Steriliser: Once again, this is not essential – any large vessel in which you immerse bottles, pacifiers, etc. in boiling water would do just as well. That said, we have found that having a steriliser saves a lot of time and leads to less frayed tempers!

Bottle cleaning brush: Not an expensive investment, but also not strictly necessary (though it’s probably best to have a separate cleaning brush of some sort).

Milk formula: Not necessary if you’re breastfeeding; to each mama her own!

Bottle warmer: This isn’t necessary because most mums have mastered the art of warming bottles in little bowls of hot water at restaurants and on flights, but they also come in handy for jars of food once the baby has moved onto solids, so if you have space, go for it!

Bottle drying rack: For mums who are using bottles and would like to clean and dry them separately, this might be useful. Some sterilisers come with a dryer or a drying function.

Read more: Your Ultimate Breastfeeding Survival Guide: 10 Steps To Positive Nursing

Shopping For Baby: Items Needed Around The House

Must-Haves

Activity gym/playmat: A great place to lie bub down and keep them engaged (the good ones will usually have interchangeable parts to keep things interesting); also great for tummy time. Most mums find this indispensable until our babies start crawling.

Soft/Crinkle books: Reading is actually a nice way to fill the days when baby can do little more than lie in place. And soft and crinkly books were among the first things to truly delight our baby.

Assorted toys: Rattles, rings and danglers (especially those that attach to your stroller and car seat) and anything squeaky are all winners. Jellycat and Lamaze toys are always popular and are easily available at baby and toy stores across the city.

Optional Items

Baby monitor: This is important for keeping tabs on bub’s sleeping habits when you’re out of the room. However, given that Hong Kong homes are so small, you may not need it immediately or if you are keeping the baby in the same room as you.

Bouncer/Rocker: We know many parents who swear by their Mamaroo infant swing or Baby Bjorn bouncer, but then there are others who have bought these only to discover that their baby hated them! We’d suggest holding off to see what your bub likes before making this big-ticket purchase; borrow from a friend or try out in a store if you need to.

Pacifier: Not every mum chooses to go this route, but it doesn’t hurt to have one on hand in case your bub is inconsolable and nothing seems to work. The American Academy of Pediatrics even suggests offering a pacifier at nap time and bedtime as it can help to reduce the risk of SIDS.

Read more: Unique, Personalised And Useful Gifts For New Mothers And Babies

Shopping For Baby: Items Needed When Out And About

Must-Haves

Stroller: Whether you’re taking a walk in the park or picking up groceries, there’ll be lots of times a stroller is easier than a baby carrier. Check out our picks of some of the top options in Hong Kong.

Sling/Carrier: For those times when you need your hands free (or bubs just wants to snuggle), baby wearing will be invaluable. Make sure you snag yourself an infant insert for the early days but be mindful of overheating (those with mesh materials are a good idea for the Hong Kong heat).

Portable changing mat: These make diaper changes on the go a snap; the best ones will have space for a couple diapers and wipes, too. We love the Ben & Ellie clutch designed by two mamas (one who’s based in Hong Kong). Not only is it practical but it looks like you’ve got your date night purse with you when heading to the loo! The SkipHop Pronto is another good option.

Diaper Bag: No matter which style you favour – tote bag, backpack or a very large handbag – this is a must for getting out and about. It needs to include extra diapers, wipes, a changing mat, a change of clothes and more. Take a look at our handy diaper bag checklist here.

Optional Items

Car seat*: In our eyes, this is an absolute safety requirement. However, since many strollers come with detachable car seats or you might not own a car or might be avoiding taxis at the moment, so we have kept this as optional. We understand that Hong Kong has rather relaxed car seat laws, but our advice is that you always err on the side of caution.

*Please consider the safety risks of not using a car seat, even if not mandated by law. 

Stroller caddy: Stroller accessories are not strictly necessary but it can help you make your trip outside a lot more organised. You can have all your essentials easily on hand without reaching for an inaccessible pocket in your bag or trousers.

Read more: The Best Strollers For Hong Kong And Where To Buy Them

No matter how much you try to buy only what you absolutely need, you won’t always get it right. There will be items that are just not for you and your baby and others that ended up being a godsend. We have left a little space for you to write down your own personal notes. Simply download this list and pop it into your purse so you can strike off all the must-buys before your baby arrives and turns your life upside down in the most beautiful way!

Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in November 2016 and updated in January 2021. 

The post Shopping For Baby: Download A Checklist Of What You Need appeared first on Sassy Mama.

We know it sometimes feels like it is really difficult to even get out of the door. After all, you don’t have only yourself to take care of, you now have a whole, new little being who demands all of your time and attention. When it is time to head out, the post-baby brain might cause you to forget many of the crucial things you need to keep baby clean, safe and happy. That’s why we’re making life a little bit easier.

Download this handy checklist and keep a copy in your diaper bag. Tick off items on the list and you’ll be set to go in no time at all. You’re welcome!

Diaper Bag Packing Checklist

Read more: Totes In Style: Our Favourite Functional And Fashionable Diaper Bags

The post Sassy Mama Checklist: What To Pack In Your Diaper Bag appeared first on Sassy Mama.