As a mother of two little ones and the founder of TravelTod®, the journey into motherhood continues to shape not just my heart, but also my brand. Those early days with a newborn—the first 40 days—are sacred, tender, and powerful. They hold a kind of quiet magic that changes you. In many cultures, this time is treated as a sacred window of rest, recovery, bonding, and deep nurturing—for both the mother and the baby.
During this phase, babies are adjusting to a brand new world outside the womb. Everything is new to them: the light, the air, the textures, the voices. Their senses are awakening and they are incredibly sensitive—physically and emotionally. I remember holding my newborns close, feeling their soft breaths and the warmth of their tiny bodies on my chest, and being deeply aware of how essential gentleness is in everything.
Welcoming My Little Ones
Both my little ones were born at 38 weeks via C-section. My first, a boy, weighed 2.8 kg at birth and left the hospital at just 2.66 kg. My second, a girl, arrived even tinier—2.69 kg at birth, leaving the hospital at 2.48 kg. These small, delicate human beings felt like the most fragile miracles I had ever held. Every tiny movement, every flutter of their eyelids, every breath while they lay on my chest—those moments felt so profound.
Touching their little hands and feet, cradling them during night feeds, and feeling their love while breastfeeding grounded me in a way nothing else could. I became so aware of everything that touched their skin. Ensuring that the fabric they wore was safe, soft, and nurturing became a quiet obsession of mine.
With my first, parenthood was so new. I had no blueprint, just instinct and an eagerness to learn. I read and read and quickly discovered how highly recommended bamboo was for newborns. Its softness, breathability, and safety gave me peace of mind. However, living in Singapore, everything i wished to find of bamboo premium quality was SO expensive, i suddenly found myself investing tons in tiny clothing that soon will not fit them anymore, there had to be a different way.
That’s when I knew: before my second arrived, I would set aside the time and intention to create something meaningful. That’s how TravelTod was born—a brand born out of love, purpose, and a desire to give both my little ones the best, right from the very beginning. Today, my little one is almost 20 months and I hope to share this quality to other moms and moms-to-be, to enjoy this for their little ones while paying very accessible prices.
Why Bamboo is the Gold Standard for Newborns
Bamboo fabric is quite literally nature’s gift to delicate baby skin. Here’s why I believe it’s the most ideal material from the day they are born:
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Naturally Hypoallergenic: Bamboo fibers are gentle on sensitive skin and reduce the risk of irritation, allergies, and eczema—which are all common concerns in those early days.
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Thermal Regulating: Babies can’t regulate their own body temperature well in the beginning. Bamboo naturally keeps them cool when it’s warm, and warm when it’s cool.
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Breathable & Moisture-Wicking: These properties help prevent overheating and keep your baby dry and comfortable for longer stretches.
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Incredibly Soft (and it stays that way): Unlike other fabrics that wear down, bamboo remains luxuriously soft wash after wash—ideal for constant cuddles.
Choosing fabrics that nurture and protect is one way we can honor this powerful early phase. And when these fabrics are also eco-conscious and responsibly made, we’re teaching our children from day one about love—not just for them, but for the world they’re growing into.
A Doula’s Take on Eco-Conscious Comfort for Newborns
I recently connected with Sulin from Papaya Wellness, who shared some beautiful insights on the importance of intentional comfort during the first 40 days:
“The first 40 days postpartum are a continuation of the womb and a healing period—known in many cultures as the fourth trimester— are a sacred window of time to cocoon both baby and mama in softness and presence. A baby’s skin is their largest organ, and they absorb so much through it—touch, temperature, and even emotional energy. Choosing fabrics like bamboo is an act of love, offering both comfort and a safe, nurturing environment that supports baby’s transition into the world”
These words resonate deeply. They reflect the very mission behind TravelTod—to create essentials that not only care for a baby’s physical needs but also nurture their emotional world. It’s about choosing products that feel like a hug.
Creating a Soft Landing Into the World
As mothers, we don’t need to do it all perfectly. But we can do it gently. Creating a soft landing into the world means slowing down, choosing with intention, and trusting our instincts. Whether it’s skin-to-skin time, slow mornings wrapped in a bamboo swaddle, or simply quiet moments of breath and connection—these are the foundations of lifelong love and security.
To the mamas reading this: Your gentleness matters. Your choices matter. And the way you welcome your baby into the world leaves a lasting imprint.
Let’s honour the first 40 days with softness, presence, and purpose—for our babies and for the planet they’ll one day care for too.
With love,
Giselle
Founder, TravelTod