The husband and wife co-founders of Snuggin‘ – the adorable and super soft pacifier holder – are redesigning the product’s packaging and they need your help. Take this quick poll and let us know which packaging appeals the most to you!
Trend: Versatile Wearables
We recently did a trend report for Bundle Organics on New Mom Essentials and we called out in that report the almost expectation now that products like nursing covers be multi-functional; doubling as car seat covers, scarves and even swaddles. We started seeing this versatility trend in other categories too from gear to furnishings and clothing. This trend is not only driven by the attraction to smart design but also by practicality; today’s moms are generally looking to reduce waste and their footprint when it comes to consumer goods. Here are some of the top trending Versatile Wearable products plus some of our favorite brands to check out for each:
The Cozy Joey by Mulier NYC
Outerwear
Now moms no longer have to worry about purchasing several different coats for different stages of mommyhood. From pregnancy to babywearing and beyond, maternity apparel brands are now offering outerwear that conforms to a mom’s varying fashion needs. What’s more is that some of these versatile outerwear pieces are multi-seasonal too.
Brands to check out: Mulier NYC (Cozy Joey), The M Coat, Japanese Weekend (Mama Coat)
NüRoo Pocket Shirt
Kangaroo / Skin-On-Skin Shirts
Day-to-day apparel is also now multi-purpose as we see baby wearing shirts – often described as “Kangaroo” shirts – emerging as a trend in the category. Moms no longer necessarily need to purchase a wrap style carrier and nursing tops as we’re seeing these two items blending. The bonus is this wearable offers the benefits of both baby wearing and skin-on-skin, such as free hands, increased milk production, promotion of well-being for mama & baby and more.
Brands to check out: NüRoo (Pocket Shirt), Lalabu (Soothe Shirt), Milk & Baby (Kangaroo Care Shirt) Hint: if you like this trend, be sure to check the details of any brand you’re considering because some of these shirts do not adhere to baby carrying standards. The NüRoo Pocket is one that adheres to sling carrier standards and carries up to 45lbs.
Go-Go Babyz Sidekick
Dual-Purpose Diaper Bag
In the past, the overarching trend seemed to be diaper bags that don’t look like diaper bags. That still holds true for many brands in terms of the overall product design strategy (to see some of our favorites from that trend, see our post here). Now diaper bags are combining with other baby gear categories; doubling up as baby carriers, breast pump bags and even bassinets. We are keeping a close eye on this trend – could there be a stroller diaper bag combo in our future?
Brands: Go-go Babyz (Sidekick), Nurse Purse, 3-In-1 Diaper Bag Bassinet
Sunsnapz Blankets
Multi-Functional Nursing Covers
Once nursing covers were no more than privacy covers for moms who planned to breastfeed outside of the home, but these covers now serve more than one purpose (and some serve five or six!) Many of the popular styles double as car seat canopies or even swaddles.
Brands to check out: Sunsnapz, Cover Me Ponchos, Milk Snob, Shuga Bebe Couture
Little Raindrop Designs Mommy & Me Teething Bracelet in Bubble Mint
Teething Jewelry
Where teething jewelry used to be limited to a few brands, this is now a very fast growing category and some brands boast a cult-like following. Just like any statement jewelry line, some of the more popular teething jewelry brands have signature styles or palettes. Many of these baubles are made of baby-safe, non-toxic 100% silicone.
Brands to check out: Chewbeads, Mama & Little, Little Raindrop Design
New Mom Trends In The Colors Of Bundle Organics
We confess: sometimes we visit the Bundle Organics website and look at the vibrant colors of their juices because it makes us downright happy. If you’re a TTC, expecting or nursing mama, Bundle Organics juices are packed with quality, organic fruits and veggies with an extra bump of vitamins and minerals essential for healthy prenatal development while also great for pre-conception and breastfeeding too! Gugu Guru isn’t only a fan of this brand for its colorful palette and super mama nutrition factor, we are, more importantly, also big fans of the taste.
Recently, we wrote a trends post for Bundle Organics on 5 New Mama Must-Haves. We were so inspired, we created a round-up of these products in the colors of the Bundle Organics juices! Plus we’re giving them away to one lucky mama and Bundle Organics is throwing in some juices too! Here are the trends:
The Wrap Style Carrier: Baby K’tan in Eggplant
Made of 100% cotton, the Baby K’tan is a must have for any new mom; often times those little loves are soothed by being close to their mother, but in this day and age, lying on the couch all day is simply not an option. The Baby K’tan keeps the baby close to your chest, while allowing you to have your hands free to work, cook, clean, or be creative. This is the perfect baby “wrap” for new moms since there is no wrapping involved! With an easy to learn process, you’ll be wearing your baby in no time, all the time.
Teething Jewelry: Chewbeads
When you become a new mom, it seems that whatever you’re wearing quickly becomes a baby toy or distraction to keep your little one from crying. Chewbeads are a must have for any new mom because they are not only stylish for you, but a wonderful way to soothe and keep baby happy as well. Made of 100% silicone beads, these beads are free of BPA, phthalates, cadmium, lead, metals – making them healthy for your little one to chew away on. As a great sensory tool for babies to play with in your arms, the necklaces also feature a safety breakaway clasp, making it safe for little hands. These are easily washable and fashion-forward for any new mom!
Nursing Bra: Cake Coral Rock Seamless Maternity and Nursing Bra
Any new mom knows how quickly your body changes from conception, through pregnancy, and especially during nursing. You’ll need a bra to keep up with your changing body! This Coral Rock Seamless Maternity and Nursing Bra is the must have undergarment for any new mom. The bra is super soft, with special, grippy straps that will restrict slip and increase support; this bra is sure to make you feel good about your body. Featuring seamless side panels and adjustable closures, it will remain faithful to your changing body, no matter which stage of pregnancy or post-pregnancy you’re in. This bra is conveniently machine washable, and has superior fabric with high elastic for stretch memory.
The Diaper Backpack: TwelveLITTLE Teal
A new mom has to have an efficient and convenient way to carry her baby gear, but she also deserves for it to be fashionable, too! Enter, this modern and hip Companion Backpack from TwelveLittle – Made with soft and lightweight water resistant nylon, featuring a padded back panel for comfort, any new mom would feel comfortable lugging around even the heaviest of baby items. With a hidden zipper pocket on bottom of back side for dirty item quick storage, this backpack is a must have for any mom who wants to get out and explore the world. It features exterior side pockets for bottles, as well as interior pockets for diapers and wipes – plus, it comes with a changing pad, so you’ll have everything you need to get out into the world comfortably with your little one!
The Multi-functional Nursing Cover: Cover Me Ponchos
A definite must have for any new mom is a nursing cover which makes her feel gorgeous! The alluring olive green nursing cover from Cover Me Ponchos is lightweight, made from breathable jersey, and not only covers you up while nursing, but also provide a stylish way to go about your day. Because the poncho has coverage in the back and front, there are no finicky straps to deal with or worry about being covered up enough. The ponchos conveniently can also be used as a scarf, carseat or stroller cover, or maternity top – a must have accessory for the new nursing mom on the go!
Bitta Kidda Lovie Sack
New parents are told so many rules: put the baby to sleep on their back, don’t put anything in the crib with them, especially no blankets or toys! But…babies tend to sleep better when they’re secure and warm, and often when holding onto something, so what’s a new parent to do? Enter the holy grail of sleep sacks: The Bitta Kidda LovieSack! The owners of Bitta Kidda, parents themselves, quickly realized that in order for their son to sleep better as an infant, he needed something soft to hold onto; toys and stuffed animals were out of the question, as well as blankies. So, they came up with the “Wearable Lovie” – a patch of soft natural 100% cotton velour, which provides a safe way for a baby to grasp something as they sleep. The Wearable Lovie cannot come off of the sleep sack, and can reach a baby’s face but never cover it, so there’s no risk of suffocation or strangulation – it’s simply a soft place for a baby’s hands to land.
Why else is the Bitta Kidda LovieSack the top of the line sleep sack for tired parents? If there’s one thing new parents (and seasoned parents) know it’s that changing a diaper in the middle of the night is pretty much the worst thing ever – the baby gets cold and wakes up and no one sleeps. But, not anymore! With the innovative diagonal zipper design, you can unzip the bottom of the Bitta Kidda (and no zipper ends to figure out how to match together – Hallelujah!), open internal (and adjustable) diaper cover, change the diaper, refasten the diaper cover, zipper back up, and put baby back to bed. The baby stays warm on top the whole time, as well as has the Wearable Lovie to hold, so your little one may not even make a peep during their 3AM diaper change any more. Thanks to the internal diaper cover, the LovieSack doesn’t get twisted around the baby, making it safe for infants as young as 3-4 months until 24 months. The LovieSack has snaps for easy on and off, and is made from 100% natural cotton – so your baby can rest healthy, safe, and easy!
We had a Gugu Guru mom, test out the LovieSack with her baby girl and here’s what she had to say:
By the time I received the Bitta Kidda LovieSack, I was in desperate need of a new pajama solution for my “mobile crib standing and rough sleeping” little one. I loved the idea of the lovie attached and the fact that it is a sack design keeps her warm and safe. Construction wise, I couldn’t be happier; everything looks to be stitched nicely and the design is adorable.
The zipper zips up easily and smoothly and the fact that that it is diagonal and ends near the armpit is a smart idea. It doesn’t end up irritating her under her chin or ride up or down and get unzipped. The internal diaper cover is a nice feature. At first I thought it would be a hindrance, but having it in place keeps this sleepsuit more in place than any others I have tried. My baby is an explorer and went straight for the lovie attached; it is a lovely way to have a toy with them in a safe way.
Babesta and aden + anais Collaboration
One of the thrills of finding out you’re having a baby is dreaming about all the adorable clothing, blankies, and accessories you’re going to swath your baby in – however, long gone are the days of drab pastel baby blankets and boring plain crib sheets! For those new parents who wish to dress and wrap their little one in something other than the same-old-same-old baby stuff, check out Babesta – a website for the “trendier tot” and their parents. Focusing on the rock-star, yoga, urban baby, Babesta features invite-only designers and artists to help give your babe some personality in what they wear (or should we say rock).
And now, we’re so excited because Babesta has partnered up with one of our favorite baby lines, aden + anais for a new, exclusive collection of New York City themed baby items! aden + anais is known for their 100% cotton muslin swaddles, blankets, crib sheets, and sleepers – which are just as soft as a parent’s touch. And now, you can deck out your tiny ones in some super cool prints based on the city that never sleeps, thanks to this wonderful collaboration between Babesta and aden + anais!
With whimsical illustrations of NYC taxi cabs and street food, this line of goodies is sure to become a favorite of yours whether you call the Big Apple home or not. Why not outfit your baby’s crib with a pretzel and hot dog crib sheet?
Transportation-themed nursery? Try the changing table pad in a yellow cab print. Swaddle your infant in a taxi cab or pretzel! Baby too old for a swaddle? No fret, there’s a hot dog and pretzel sleeping bag, as well! And, of course, burp cloths with taxis and street food. Looking for the perfect baby shower gift? Look no further than aden + anais’ famously popular dream blanket full of taxis and pretzels!
There’s no reason swaddles and blankies have to be boring, so have some fun with this new collection – and hey, if you’re up at 3am rocking a baby to sleep, at least you’ll have delicious hot soft pretzels to think about.
Product Discovery: b.box
As a parent, the key word is always “convenience” – any item you carry on you has to be easy to reach, easy to clean, safe for the baby, and double points if the item can be used as two items in one! As your baby grows into the early stages of eating solid foods, you’re going to find yourself having to remember to pack not only the food in the diaper bag, but also a spoon, bib (or 2), plastic baggies, paper towels, wipes, and still, at the end of the day, you’ll probably be shoving a dirty bib into the diaper bag (and, let’s be honest, forget that it’s there and find a sweet potato crusted bib three weeks later). Well, now, thanks to the folks over at b.box, there is a much better way!
b.box, started by two moms, features fun and, most importantly, functional products for babies and young children. 
Having endured the mess of dirty-bibs-on-the-go themselves, the ladies at b.box invented this innovative travel bib and spoon, which not only is adorable for your little one, but amazingly efficient as well. How does it work so well? Well, this BPA-, Phthalates- and PVC-free bib features a standard bib structure, however, on the bottom of the bib is a pouch to catch all the food which drops – but, that’s not all!
When your darling one is done with their messy lunch-on-the-go, all you do is fold the bib up into the pouch attached on the bottom, throw in the spoon, zip up – and voila! Throw it into your diaper bag, clean as a whistle, and you won’t have any more crusty potato flakes wandering around the bottom of your bag.
Once you get home, simply un-zip the pouch, wash the bib and spoon by hand with your regular dish soap, let dry, and you’re ready to zip it back up for your next adventure with your babe.
The pouch features a handy looped handle, so you can easily strap it to the outside of your diaper bag, wear it on your hand, or throw it on your stroller’s handle.
The flexible soft-bite spoon is perfect for early eaters, all the way down to children who can feed themselves. The bib is made from polyester and comfortable for your baby, without being too rigid and making it uncomfortable for them to eat. With an adjustable strap on the neck of the bib, this efficient and functional mealtime accessory will last your little one many months! This one-of-a-kind product is perfect for any mom-on-the-go who loves to leave for adventures at the last minute! You’ll never have to worry about packing towels, plastic baggies, and multiple bibs again – when it comes to convenience, the b.box travel bib has it all – not to mention the modern and cool graphics on it!
Making It Work at Work — Six Tips On How To Successfully Return To Work After Maternity Leave
We had the pleasure of meeting Gina Ciagne, Global Vice President, Healthcare Relations at Lansinoh & Certified Lactation Counselor at the ABC Kids Expo and we love her dedication to supporting breastfeeding moms. Obviously, aside from being a lactation specialist, by working at one of the leading manufacturers of breastfeeding products, Gina knows a lot about pumping. And, as a business woman, she has great advice about making it all work when going back to work. Here, her six tips on how to successfully return to work when pumping:
Congratulations! You’re a mom who packs up her pump when you head to work, so your baby can continue to have the very best nourishment. You’re also ensuring breastfeeding security when the two of you are together by maintaining your supply while you are apart.
Whether you’re just returning to work or simply need a refresher, here are some tips to make it a win-win-win: for you, your baby and your employer.
Tip 1: Make a connection.
Every breastfeeding mother has a story about what worked for her when she returned to work. If you know other women who have pumped at work, talk to them about their experiences and solutions to any challenges they may have had.
You can also connect with other mothers on breastfeeding message boards.
Tip 2: Find time to pump.
Plan your pumping schedule to replicate your baby’s nursing times, so that your body gets the necessary signals to continue producing milk.
Avoid skipping sessions as this signals your body to produce less milk. Make sure you have regularly scheduled pumping sessions.
Tip 3: Be flexible, but don’t neglect your breasts.
Consider your employer’s needs, as well as your own.
Even if you only have a few minutes, still pump and don’t skip a session, if at all possible.
It will be uncomfortable as your breasts fill with milk, and regular stimulation is more important for your body’s response than pumping time.
However, a drained breast will replenish more milk, so ideally pump until your breasts are noticeably less full.
Set aside time if your schedule is unpredictable, or be creative about when you pump.
For instance, it’s possible to read or eat lunch while pumping especially when using a hands-free pumping bra.
Tip 4: Find a private place to pump.
It’s important to pump without disruption, so that the necessary hormones are released for let-down.
Having a lactation room at work is ideal, but other options are a private office or storage room that can lock.
Avoid using the bathroom, as it’s not a sanitary place to pump.
Tip 5: Discuss the situation with your employer.
It’s important to explain your need to have regularly scheduled pumping sessions to your employer.
And remember, The Affordable Care Act is on your side!
This healthcare law stipulates that an employer must provide the time and space for pumping moms. And, by the way, it specifically points out that the “space” should not be a bathroom.
For more details, you can visit The Department of Labor’s website.
Tip 6: Know your facts.
Hopefully you won’t run into any obstacles with your employer. But if you do, the following facts can help you make a convincing argument to gain support.
A study published by the United States Breastfeeding Committee states:
• Lactation programs are cost-effective, showing a $3:1 return on investment.
• One-day absences to care for sick children occur more than twice as often for mothers of formula-fed infants.
• Breastfeeding lowers insurance claims for businesses. One study showed that for every 1,000 babies not breastfed, there were over 2,000 extra physician visits, 212 extra hospitalization days, and 609 extra prescriptions to treat just three common childhood illnesses.
Overall, by supporting lactation at work, employers can:
o Reduce turnover
o Lower recruitment and training costs
o Cut rates of absenteeism
o Boost morale and productivity
o Decrease health care costs
We know that pumping takes extra effort, especially at work. But it’s worth it for your baby, for you and even for your employer. For more information or breastfeeding support, please go to www.lansinoh.com.
Gina Ciagne
Gina Ciagne, Lansinoh’s Global Vice President, Healthcare Relations is a nationally recognized expert on breastfeeding.
As a Certified Lactation Counselor and La Leche League International-trained breastfeeding peer counselor, she has worked with and provided advice and support to thousands of breastfeeding mothers around the world.
A sought-after speaker and media resource, Ms. Ciagne is a frequent contributor to The Huffington Post, and has appeared on The Bump, CNN, Fox News and many other TV and radio news programs.
In her role as Global Vice President, Healthcare Relations for Lansinoh, Ms. Ciagne oversees the company’s outreach to and engagement with healthcare communities.
She also is the mother of two breastfed children, whom she pumped for when she returned to work, so she knows the juggle!
10 Must-Have Survival Items For Moms On The Go
As a new mother I felt overwhelmed by all of the stuff I was told I needed to lug around. Between the alcohol wipes, boogie wipes, pacifier wipes, wipe wipes…It seemed like I had to pack an entire suitcase just to take a simple trip to the store. And, being a person, who in my former life never, had more than five items (lipstick, ID, phone, money and keys) in my purse, it seemed crazy to me that I would have to haul an overstuffed diaper bag with me everywhere I went. Let’s be honest, it’s hard enough to remember what I ate for breakfast, and now I had what seemed like 4726 “need to survive” items on me at all times, just so I could go to Target! (And, I usually was running out just to pick up a few more of these “need to survive” items).
Over the course of the first few months of being a new mom, I realized that carrying all this crap was ridiculous. So I made a list of the essential 10 items that I need with me at all times. These are the things I keep in my car, so even if I forget my diaper bag it’s all there.
1. Plastic bags – These are a must! They come in handy to hold dirty diapers, wipes – and like I learned the hard way… if your baby throws up, mounds and mounds of paper towels (not to mention for actually throwing up into, if you win the lottery and catch it in time.) Plastic bags are also fantastic for toting around wet or dirty clothes, whether it’s from the baby or yourself.
2. Diapers – Never leave home without at least five extra diapers in an accessible place – a bag in the car, or your diaper bag. Don’t forget – babies poop a lot! More than you can imagine. I went on an overnight trip to my sister’s and I put three diapers in my diaper bag (I had the rest of the diapers in my overnight bag). I didn’t even get 10 minutes away from my house, when we went through all three diapers and I had to rip into my luggage to get out more. Like I said: babies poop A LOT.
3. Wipes – Always have a big pack of them. Remember…babies poop A LOT! (Did I say that already?) Plus wipes are wonderful because babies are known to spit up, drop pacifiers and bottles, and have runny noses. Wipes wipe away any and all grossness that comes with having a baby – whether you’re wiping them up, the seat up, or even your own hands and face.
4. Paper towels – This is one item that never occurred to me until I needed it. My mother-in-law decided it would be a good idea to read to Mason (my son) while we were running errands; well within 10 minutes, breakfast, lunch and remnants of the previous night’s dinner were all over him, her, his car seat, and my backseat. It looked like he had a rough night out at the bar. And note to self, wet wipes (see above) do not clean-up throw-up.
5. Change of clothes –It took me too long to realize that you should have keep a change of clothes for the baby in the car, and for yourself! Baby throw-up can reach places you never imagined!
6. Coat – Always carry an extra jacket or coat for the baby in the car; you never know if you’re going to have to stop someplace or your car has trouble – better to be warm than sorry!
7. Toys – As my story mentioned above, for some children, you may want to bypass the books in the car and stick with toys only! Get yourself a cloth bin and keep it in the backseat with some special car toys – preferably soft items, nothing sharp or heavy!
8. Pacifier (if you use them) – I try not to use pacifiers as an all-day treat but there are two times I find I need them; when he’s sleeping and in the car. It makes both of our lives easier.
9. First aid kit – Hopefully you’ll never use it, but as they get older, scratches, cuts and bruises are inevitable. Believe me, if your kiddo skins his knee on the playground, you’ll be thanking your past-self for stocking the car with band-aids!
10. Snacks – I make sure I keep snacks handy at all times. Just make sure you keep them fresh and safe for your little one. I make sure they are the first item I put in the car and take out of everyday. You can always keep non-perishables, like crackers or cookies in plastic bags (don’t forget a snack for mama too!)
I hope sharing my momma mistakes will help you! Good luck!
What do you think of Michelle’s survival items? Did she miss any? Let us know in the comments below!
About Michelle Wright
Michelle Wright is a freelance writer; with a 15-month-old delicious son, and a self-proclaimed pessimistic husband. She has a contagious laugh, a love of B-rated horror movies and crime-drama TV. She is currently a stay-at-home domestic engineer, who was a restaurant owner in her former life.
After she got pregnant she sold her restaurant to start a new life of changing diapers, continuously cleaning up toys, and reinventing herself.
When she realized that working in her yoga pants, going braless and bringing your baby to the office, were shunned in the workforce, she decided to go back to her real passions: writing, creating and story-telling.
Take this journey with her on twitter at @ABCsOfPregnancy
Let’s Start Meal Planning: Part 2 of 2
In part one, Dina Renart founder of Quick Clean Eats and a master of food prep gives us an introduction to meal prepping. Here, in part two of two, Dina gives her step-by-step guide to planning.
Planning Your Menu
Ok, so now that you’ve read up on meal prep, you have decided that you definitely want to start. First thing you need to do is plan your meals. It takes time to plan, something we don’t always have. But remember that planning now, saves time in the future. I break-up the tasks so that I spend no more than 10-15 minutes planning at a time.
Here is my schedule:
Wednesday: At dinner I have each family member chose a meal they would like and I plug them into the dinner planning schedule.
Thursday: Get my recipes together for the week and lay it out on my Menu Planner. Tip: Make sure you have that week’s calendar and schedule when planning.
Friday: Create your shopping list
Saturday: Food shop
Sunday: Meal prep
Having a set schedule make plugging recipes into each night easier. How did I come up with my schedule? First I looked at our calendar; it is important to know which days are you busiest and when you have time to cook. For my family Wednesdays and Thursdays are packed and we do not get home until dinnertime. I know I won’t be able to cook so I make sure those meals are already prepped and ready to heat and eat. By Friday I am exhausted and ready to kick my feet up and have somebody else do the cooking for me. So, Fridays have become our Take-Out night.
In case it’s helpful for you, here is our daily meal plan but you should create one that works for you and your family:
Monday: Meatless Monday
Tuesday: Chicken dinner
Wednesday: Freezer Slow Cooker meal
Thursday: Leftovers from Tuesday and Wednesday
Friday: Take-Out
Saturday: Fish Dinner
Sunday: Chicken, Pork or Beef Dinner
About Dina Renart
My name is Dina Renart and I am the founder, writer and recipe creator of the Facebook page Quick Clean Eats and Renart Fitness. My clean eating obsession began the morning I found out that I was pregnant in 2009. On this particular morning, I was sitting on the Long Island Rail Road headed into the New York City Food and Wine Festival with my Starbucks in hand. I was looking at my Skinny Vanilla Cappuccino and wondered if it was “good” for my baby’s development. I realized that I had been taking what I put into my body for granted and I needed to start paying attention. But, where do I start?
Healthy eating was harder than I thought. I was overwhelmed by the thoughts running through my mind. What would I cook? What foods can I eat? I would have to find some way of planning, prepping and storing all my new perishable foods. That was 6 years ago. Since then I have researched, read, spoke with many people and spent countless hours planning and prepping. I have had many successes and failures along the way. My journey has also lead me to become a BeachBody Coach. I support, motivate and challenge my clients to clean up their diets, include easy at home exercise to fit into daily routines and create overall healthier lifestyles for themselves and their families.
Introduction to Meal Prepping: Part 1 of 2
We conducted a little poll among seasoned mamas, most of them working mamas, and asked them the one sanity saving thing or product that they would recommend to pregnant first time mamas. You might be surprised that the most common answer we got was “meal prep”. Here, in part one of two, Dina Renart founder of Quick Clean Eats and a master of food prep gives us an introduction to meal prepping. (In part two, Dina gives her step-by-step guide to meal planning.)
Whether you are a stay-at-home mom or a working mom, you can eliminate the stress and time factor of having to cook everyday by meal prepping. What exactly is meal prepping? Meal prepping means preparing either whole meals or portions of meals in advance. Cooking and/or preparing items in bulk will not only provide for your family, but free up time to dedicate to your other goals and obligations.
Hint: Before endeavoring on meal prep, consider stocking up on containers; you are going to need them. I avoid round containers and look for squares or rectangles as they stack easily and allow for efficient use of space.
Here are my top 7 tips to prepping:
1. Don’t try to prep it all
When starting out, don’t try and make your entire weekly menu plan. Start slow. During your first two weeks, you may want to consider a manageable goal of prepping 1-2 recipes ahead of time. As you become comfortable with the process, you can prep more by adding recipes and days.
2. Don’t try new recipes
It is key to stick with recipes you already know how to make your first few times prepping. Chances are you are confident in the outcome of the recipe and the only thing you need to focus on is preparing it ahead of time. By beginning with recipes you are well practiced in, you can focus on what works, what doesn’t, and most importantly it allows you to experience the benefits of having food ready.
3. Choose the “right” recipe(s)
This is huge! If you are short on time or don’t have the energy to prepare a lot of food then prioritize your meals. For example, if you are rushing around every morning and always running out of time for a healthy breakfast, consider focusing on preparing egg muffins or overnight oats. If dinnertime brings you the most stress, then put together some meal starters or prep ingredients for a couple slow cooker recipes. If you are always running to the vending machine at 3:00pm, put together some veggie packs or bags of almonds.
4. It is not necessary to cook all the food you prep
Food prep can be anything. You don’t necessarily need to cook all your meals completely. It can mean cutting up meat or chopping up vegetables ahead of time for recipes. Washing fruits and vegetables so they are ready for snacks. Or even simply portioning nuts, crackers, or other food items.
5. Even the smallest bit of food prep makes a difference
I used to think, “If I did not have hours to set aside for prepping my food, then why bother?” There are always going to be weeks my time is limited. If I wait for the right time, or more time, then I would never do anything. Make the most of the time you have and do what you can – any food prep is better than no food prep at all. Some weeks I might not get any dinners prepped ahead of time. However, if my mason jar salads are done, I can rationalize that as, “at least I don’t need to worry about lunch.”
6. There is no right or wrong way to food prep; the options are endless
Basically, it comes down to just making time and getting it done. Do what works for you. If the only thing you want to prep each week are hardboiled eggs, for instance, then make this your manageable goal. Whatever meets your needs and can be done with consistency and/or ease. Don’t get inundated with thinking it has to be done a certain way.
7. Give yourself time to reap the rewards and make it a habit
Remember: it takes about 3 weeks to form a habit. Weekly food prep is no different. Don’t throw in the towel if it doesn’t work out the first time (or the first few times.) Adapt and overcome. Expect to make adjustments along the way. Sure it takes a little effort and time upfront but it is worth it. It is so rewarding to open up the refrigerator door and see healthy delicious meals and snacks ready to eat.
Ready to get started? Read part two of this series: Let’s Start Meal Planning
About Dina Renart
My name is Dina Renart and I am the founder, writer and recipe creator of the Facebook page Quick Clean Eats and Renart Fitness. My clean eating obsession began the morning I found out that I was pregnant in 2009. On this particular morning, I was sitting on the Long Island Rail Road headed into the New York City Food and Wine Festival with my Starbucks in hand. I was looking at my Skinny Vanilla Cappuccino and wondered if it was “good” for my baby’s development. I realized that I had been taking what I put into my body for granted and I needed to start paying attention. But, where do I start?
Healthy eating was harder than I thought. I was overwhelmed by the thoughts running through my mind. What would I cook? What foods can I eat? I would have to find some way of planning, prepping and storing all my new perishable foods. That was 6 years ago. Since then I have researched, read, spoke with many people and spent countless hours planning and prepping. I have had many successes and failures along the way. My journey has also lead me to become a BeachBody Coach. I support, motivate and challenge my clients to clean up their diets, include easy at home exercise to fit into daily routines and create overall healthier lifestyles for themselves and their families.
