’m back... as I promised you, with the second half of a very important column on all the must-haves for that beautiful new baby on the way. My list continues with my favorite tried and true products that just so happen to have a whole lot of style AND function.

OK, you’ve got the car seat, crib, bassinet, and all the necessary accoutrements, and Junior’s closet is full of stylish, yet practical essentials - as well as a handful of other indulgences - who can say no to those adorable Baby Gucci shoes!? But you’re not quite done yet!!

Read on for more Rock Star Momma Nursery Room Must-Haves...

Breast Pump
For all you mommas who are embracing breastfeeding, be sure to invest (and yes, it is an investment) in a quality breast pump. This is definitely not the place to penny pinch. Seek the advice of a lactation consultant who can help you find a pump that is perfect for your lifestyle and needs. If cost is an issue, there are great rentals out there too!

Nursing Pillow
You’re going to need a nursing pillow, as the moon shape of the pillow perfectly supports your newborn baby during feedings, no matter if you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. I recommend the firmer pillows, as they tend to hold their shape longer. I also suggest a style with a removable, washable cover in case baby spits up - which I can pretty much guarantee.

See The Cradle’s article Nursing Pillows: A Comparison

Glider
Some of my favorite memories of our son are those where he’s peacefully sleeping on my chest in the glider. There’s a reason it’s called a glider... yes, it glides, rather than rocks, which means both you and baby are in for a long, smooth ride. The glider provides a perfect bonding environment for mom and baby. I love the newest models in the marketplace where form and function meet style. Say goodbye to the ugly old gliders of the past and hello to a gorgeous new piece of furniture!

Baby First Aid Kit

• Nasal Aspirator – A very important device! Remember - babies can’t blow their little noses, and a stuffy baby is not a happy baby. I loved those blue bulbs!!

• Nail Clippers – For those pesky little razor-sharp nails - yes, razor sharp!

• Mylicon – Rarely do I name drop, but this formula should be in every new baby’s nursery! Two words: gas relief. Have 2-3 bottles on hand at all times. You can (and will) thank me later!

• Medicine Dropper - I hope you won’t need this piece, but if you must give your baby medicine in these early months, you are going to need a medicine dropper. Yes, sometimes the obvious isn’t so obvious, but when you are waiting at the pharmacy at 2AM for your baby’s medicine, the last thing you should have to worry about is grabbing a medicine dropper.

• Thermometer - For newborns, it’s best to have one for each end... I’ll leave it at that!


Blankets
You can NEVER, yes I said NEVER, have too many blankets in the house with a newborn! Trust me when I tell you that new babies spit up more than you might think is humanly possible. And you better be prepared with back-up blankets standing on deck for a quick change. I remember going through 4-5 blankets in a day with my little one. Thank goodness I had those extra blankets around so that I wasn’t spending more time with my washing machine than with my new baby!

I can go on and on about all the things you’ll need for the newest addition to your family, but I won’t… sometimes the best advice is simply that little voice in your head and not another mom, friend, your own mother, website, doctor, etc… a mother’s instinct is a spectacular thing.

You’re going to be an amazing mom... I just know it!