Practical life and mom hacks

Clothes that fit the body you have now

Your body keeps changing for months after birth, and that's normal. You don't need a new wardrobe, just a few comfortable pieces that make you feel like yourself again.

If you had a C-section, soft high-waisted bottoms that sit above the incision, or low ones that sit well below it, are often more comfortable than waistbands that press on it. Ask your provider before using a belly band or support garment.

• Soft, stretchy leggings or joggers with a wide waistband
• Button-front or wrap tops, and nursing tops or bras if you're breastfeeding
• Breathable cotton underwear in a size up while you heal
• A long cardigan or overshirt that goes over everything
• Slip-on shoes, for when bending down feels like a lot
• One outfit you love, for days you want to feel put together

Easy, nourishing meals

When your hands are full, food that's ready in minutes makes a big difference. A little planning, or a friend's help, can stock your freezer before or after the baby arrives.

• Freeze soups, chilis, curries and casseroles in single portions, labeled with the name and date.
• Cool cooked food and put it in the fridge or freezer within 2 hours.
• Eat refrigerated leftovers within 3 to 4 days. Frozen meals taste best within 3 to 4 months.
• Thaw frozen meals in the fridge, in cold water, or in the microwave, never on the counter.
• Reheat leftovers until they're steaming hot, to 165°F.
• Keep one-handed snacks within reach: cheese sticks, yogurt, fruit, nut butter on toast, trail mix, energy bites and hard-boiled eggs.
• Keep a water bottle wherever you usually feed the baby.

Grocery shortcuts

Grocery delivery or curbside pickup can save hours a week. Keep a running list of staples in your notes app so reordering takes a minute.

When friends ask how they can help, it's okay to say: "A meal or a grocery run would be amazing."

• Stock up on staples: frozen vegetables, canned beans, rice, pasta, oats, eggs and bread.
• Pre-cut fruit and vegetables cost a bit more but save time on hard days.
• Rotisserie chicken turns into sandwiches, salads, wraps and quesadillas.

Your first outings with a newborn

Leaving the house for the first time can feel huge. Start small: a short walk around the block, a quick coffee, or a visit to a friend. Each trip gets easier.

Go at a time that's usually calm for your baby, often right after a feed. Know where you could sit to feed or change them, and give yourself permission to head home early.

• In the car, babies ride rear-facing in their car seat, with the harness snug and no bulky coat underneath. Lay a blanket over the buckled straps instead.
• Car seats are for travel, not for sleeping or feeding outside the car.
• Keep babies younger than 6 months out of direct sun. Use shade, light clothing that covers their arms and legs, and a wide-brimmed hat. Sunscreen is a last resort, on small areas like the face.
• Wash your hands, and ask others to wash theirs, before touching the baby.

Packing the diaper bag

Restock the bag as soon as you get home, so it's always ready to grab.

• Diapers (one for every 2 hours you'll be out, plus 2 extra) and wipes
• A changing pad and a few bags for dirty diapers or clothes
• A spare outfit for the baby, and a spare top for you
• Burp cloths
• Feeding supplies: a nursing cover if you like one, or bottles and formula or pumped milk
• A pacifier, if your baby uses one
• A hat and a light blanket
• Hand sanitizer and tissues
• Water, a snack and a phone charger for you
• Your baby's insurance card and pediatrician's number