Congratulations, new parent! Welcoming a newborn into the family is an exciting and joyous time. However, with this newfound responsibility comes a lot of juggling, especially when it comes to the simplest of tasks like grocery shopping.
It can be daunting to even think about taking your newborn with you to the store, but don’t worry – I’ve got your back. In this blog post, we will provide you with all the tips and tricks you need to make grocery shopping with your newborn a breeze.
I understand that you want to make sure your baby is comfortable, safe, and happy throughout the process, and that’s exactly what we aim to help you with.
So, whether you’re a first-time parent or a seasoned pro, keep reading to learn how to grocery shop with a newborn like a pro!
Planning Ahead To Take A Newborn Grocery Shopping
Grocery shopping with a newborn can be challenging, which is why planning ahead is crucial. By taking the time to plan, you can ensure a stress-free experience for both you and your baby. So, why is it so important to plan ahead?
For starters, it can help you avoid crowded stores, long lines, and other stressors that may be overwhelming for your newborn. Additionally, planning ahead allows you to create a comprehensive list of everything you need, so you won’t forget anything important.
First and foremost, choosing the right time to go is key. Try to go when the store is less busy, such as early in the morning or late at night. This will give you more space to maneuver with your little one and avoid crowds.
Next, making a list is a must. Write down everything you need, for example, if you’re making freezer meals, before leaving the house, and make sure to organize it by aisle to save time and prevent backtracking.
Meal planning can also help you save time and avoid stress. Plan out what you’re going to cook for the week and make a grocery list based on those meals.
If you’re not up for taking your newborn to the store, shopping online is a great option. Many grocery stores offer online ordering and delivery or curbside pickup, which can save you time and energy.
One question that new parents often ask is, “Can I bring my newborn to the grocery store?” The answer is yes, but it’s important to take some precautions.
Make sure your baby is dressed appropriately for the weather, and bring along a few essentials, such as diapers, wipes, and a change of clothes.
Additionally, avoid bringing your newborn to the store if they’re feeling under the weather or if it’s a particularly busy time.
Packing Essentials for Your Newborn
It’s important to have everything you need for baby to stay comfortable and happy, especially if the trip ends up taking longer than expected. So, what are the must-have items for grocery shopping with a newborn?
First, make sure to pack a well-stocked diaper bag. This should include diapers, wipes, diaper cream, a changing pad, and a spare change of clothes. You never know when they might have a blowout or spill something, so it’s always best to be prepared.
Next, consider bringing along a baby carrier or stroller. A stroller can be a good option for longer shopping trips or if you have a lot of items to buy. Strollers are allowed in all grocery stores and even warehouses like Costco.
A baby carrier is a great option for keeping your baby close and comfortable while you shop, and it also leaves your hands free to grab groceries.
A blanket is also a good item to bring along, especially if your baby likes to nap while on the go. You can use it to cover the carrier or stroller to provide some shade or create a cozy space for your baby to sleep.
Finally, don’t forget the pacifier (if your baby takes one). This can be a lifesaver if they get fussy or need some extra comfort while you’re shopping.
If you’re thinking, how can I keep my newborn comfortable during grocery shopping? One tip is to make sure your child is dressed appropriately for the weather. If it’s hot outside, dress them in lightweight clothing and bring along a hat to protect their head from the sun.
If it’s cold outside, bundle them up in warm layers and a hat. Additionally, try to keep them on their regular schedule as much as possible. If they usually nap at a certain time, try to plan your shopping trip around that time so they can nap while you’re on the go.
What To Do With Your Newborn At The Supermarket
Now that you’ve planned ahead and packed the right essentials, it’s time to tackle the actual grocery shopping experience with your newborn.
First, when navigating the grocery store with a newborn, it’s important to choose the right cart. Look for a cart with a built-in infant seat or bring along a car seat and place it securely in the cart. This will ensure that your baby is safe and comfortable while you shop.
Next, strategize your route through the store. Plan to start with the items that you need the most, such as fresh produce or meat, and work your way through the store in a logical order. This will help you avoid backtracking and save time.
Try to avoid busy aisles and peak shopping times, as these can be overwhelming for both you and your newborn. If possible, shop during off-peak hours when the store is less crowded. Additionally, take breaks when needed. If your child needs a diaper change or feeding, take a break and find a quiet spot to attend to their needs.
If possible, park closer to the front of the grocery store. If the weather is bad this will also help you with getting in and out of the car quicker also.
What if my newborn cries in the middle of the store?
First, don’t panic – crying is a natural part of a newborn’s communication. Take a deep breath, and try to attend to their needs. If they’re hungry, offer a feeding. If they’re uncomfortable, try adjusting their position in the carrier or stroller. And if all else fails, don’t be afraid to take a break and step outside for some fresh air. Remember, you’re doing the best you can!
Safe To Take A Newborn To The Grocery Store?
It is generally recommended to avoid taking newborns or infants who are less than two months old to the grocery store due to their still-developing immune systems that make them vulnerable to infections.
However, if it is absolutely necessary to take the baby with you, you should take the necessary precautions. Safety should always be a top priority when grocery shopping with a newborn.
First, avoid crowded areas whenever possible. This includes areas such as the deli counter or bakery, where there may be a lot of people gathered in a small space. Instead, try to shop during quieter times of the day or choose less crowded aisles.
It’s also important to sanitize your hands frequently, especially before handling your newborn. Most grocery stores provide hand sanitizer stations throughout the store, so take advantage of these to keep your hands clean.
While it may be tempting to show your baby all the different types of food at the store, it’s important to keep your newborn away from any potential hazards. This includes raw meat or produce that may contain harmful bacteria, as well as any choking hazards such as small candies or nuts. Keep your newborn in their carrier or stroller and away from any food that could cause harm.
When it comes to putting your baby in the basket, you maybe ask whether it’s safe to use a shopping cart cover for your newborn. While shopping cart covers can help protect your baby from germs and bacteria on the cart, it’s important to remember that they are not foolproof. Make sure to still take precautions such as sanitizing your hands and keeping your newborn away from potential hazards.
Shopping With a Car Seat
The first thing you might be thinking when it comes to this option is, “When is it safe to have baby sit in shopping cart?” The answer to that is that babies should not ride in a grocery cart typically until they are able to sit on their own, unassisted.
If your baby is still in a car seat, you should never place the car seat on the top of the cart because they could fall over. Putting the infant sear inside the basket will limit the space available for food or anything else.
Grocery shopping with a stroller
This is pretty tricky to do because you’re pushing two things that can both weigh a considerable amount. I suggest that if you need to grocery shop with a stroller, you stick to a short list, or light items that can fit in the bottom basket of the stroller.
How do you know if a stroller will be good for shopping? Some features to look for:
Easily foldable, great for if you have to hold the baby and put the stroller away at the same time.
Can accommodate a newborn/infant car seat or younger baby
Roomy basket storage with a wide opening to access the things you’ll put inside and easily take out
Shopping Cart Hammock
Another option for shopping with an infant is to use a shopping cart hammock. This is exactly what it sounds like! A hammock designed for infant use in a shopping cart.
The shopping cart hammock fastens securely to the cart and also has a secure seat harness and strap to keep your baby safely inside.
This is truly the most hands free option. The hammock is elevated in the cart which still allows for plenty of space for groceries or various items. When you’re ready to go, you simply take baby out and you can roll the hammock up and stash it in your car or purse.
The biggest question you’re probably wondering “Is a shopping cart hammock safe?”
The creators of Binxy Baby have a whole page dedicated to safety of their product. Several features promote the safe use of the product like double layered fabric, reinforced stitching, safety strap, and a 3-point harness seat belt.
Grocery Shopping With a Baby Carrier
Baby carriers are another hands-free option that allow your baby to rest against you while shopping. If they’re napping, wearing them will probably help keep them soundly asleep while you’re shopping.
It also helps reduce the possibility of strangers touching your baby. People are a lot less hesitant to touch a baby when it’s so close to your own body.
Shopping with a carrier is a safe and secure option. You won’t have to worry about using any additional equipment for your grocery cart.
My favorite baby carrier is this one by Ergobaby. They are extremely comfortable and the hood feature is a lifesaver. It really comes in handy and the baby is less exposed to the elements. Even if my baby was awake when we got to the store, the lulling motion of my walking and the hood over her head put her to sleep. Just like that, you’re shopping in peace!
Shopping Cart Cover
If your baby is 6 months or older and can sit unassisted, you could use a shopping cart cover for your trip to the store. They will have a little bit more freedom to move because they won’t be constrained by a car seat or harness.
Shopping carts can be filled with germs, and your kid is probably anxious to explore. The cover is a barrier between direct contact with the cart and your baby. This option leaves the entire lower half of the basket free for groceries and other items.
My favorite shopping cart cover is this one from Go by Goldbug. The cover has safety straps and padded leg holes. It covers the entire area where the baby is sitting. We also use it on restaurant high chairs, so it has more than one use!
I hope that these tips and tricks have been helpful in making grocery shopping with your newborn a smoother experience. Take the time to enjoy the little moments with your baby, and don’t let the stress of shopping get in the way. With a positive attitude and some preparation, you can make this experience a memorable one for both you and your little one.
