If you want to get your infant off to a pure and organic start, you might be interested in this newborn set from Ruskovilla.  This set is made up of simple, natural, essentials to pamper both mom and baby.  Made in Finland, the set includes a pair of wool nappy pants, a silk/wool blend shirt and matching cap, a pure silk hat, an organic cotton teething animal, silk breast warmers for a nursing mother, and Weleda Pregnancy body oil for the mother-to-be.

I love the simple, classic appearance of these pieces which are sure to pamper your newborn’s delicate skin with Ruskovilla’s blend of Merino Wool, Pure Silk, and Cotton.  Moreover, the company is committed to environmentally-friendly practices, so your purchase helps care for the Earth as well as your little one. You can purchase this complete set for $164.90 at WoolenWishes.com.

I’ve always loved the idea of a co-sleeper, but until now I wasn’t very impressed by the appearance of the ones I’ve seen in stores and friends’ houses.  This Sleigh Bed Bassinet model from Arm’s Reach, however, has me wishing that I didn’t already have a cradle that I love.

Designed for children up to approximately 18 months, this co-sleeper allows you to keep your baby right next to your bed. Because it attaches directly to any size of mattress, it affords nursing moms easier access to their little ones.  It also looks great.

This bassinet co-sleeper comes with a sheet, mattress, and bumper pad.  You can purchase one for $369.99 at armsreach.com.  A number of finishes are available.  You can also purchase a conversion set to transform the co-sleeper into a child-sized love seat when your child outgrows it.

Lately I have been hearing a lot about milkscreen, a product that allows nursing mothers to have an alcoholic beverage without agonizing over the safety of their milk. I personally couldn’t tell you the last time I had alcohol of any kind, but I know a lot of women for whom this product is a lifesaver. If you enjoy an occassional beer or glass of wine with dinner, these strips can help you determine whether it is safe to nurse, or whether you should feed your child expressed milk instead. The results can help you avoid “pumping and dumping” milk that is actually perfectly-safe for consumption.

The product is recommended by pediatricians and lactation consultants. You can purchase 3 test strips for $5.99 or 20 for $19.99 at Upspringbaby.com.

I have been trying to think of all of the little things that I need to pick up before this baby arrives.  I just suddenly remembered about Soothies.  I discovered these gel pads after the birth of my second daughter.  If I hadn’t had such a positive experience nursing my first, I’m not sure I would have stuck it out the second time around.  I realized too late that my daughter was latching improperly, and by the time we fixed the problem, I was in major pain.  I tried everything from creams to heat/cold packs to tea bags, but Soothies were the only thing that really helped.  These pads are filled with a cool and soothing gel that soothes your nipples between feedings and protects them from additional friciton from your clothing, etc. I would highly recommend them to any nursing mom.

They are a bit pricey, but you won’t need a lot of them.  They can also be a bit hard to find in stores (at least where I live), so I recommend ordering online before you desperately need them.  You can purchase a box for $11.95 at Soothies.com.  This is also a great little gift to pass along to a new mom.

As a first time mother I remember reading that I should clip a safety pin on my nursing bra, moving it back and forth from side to side to remind myself where to start nursing next.  Even as a nervous new mom I knew that that was more trouble than it was worth!  Milk Bands Nursing Bracelets are a much easier to use alternative that accomplish the same purpose.  You wear the band on the same wrist, simply turning it inside out to indicate the opposite side.  Sliders help you identify the time at which you last nursed as well as how long the feeding session lasted.  Having this information handy can definitely come in handy, especially if you are a nervous new parent.

You can purchase one of these bracelets, intended to last for 12 months, for $9.95 at StellaMaternity.com.  Five different color choices are available.  This would make a thoughtful gift, too.

With my due date looming, I’m realizing that it is time to start thinking about nursing clothes (and, of course, concealing that post-baby belly until I can get back in shape).  I just came across this great nursing top by Mayreau, and it seems to fit my needs perfectly.  I love the deep chocolate color, which I find flatters most women.  Dark colors, of course, are also slimming, a great option in those first few months.

The design of the top is great for nursing. The crossover neck can be pushed aside to allow for easy nursing access, which makes it as practical as it is stylish. The high waist and low skirt are very forgiving of a post-baby tummy.

You can purchase one of these great shirts for $62 at MamasAndMunchkins.com.  It is available in S, M or L sizes.