You stand in front of your wardrobe in the morning and nothing fits quite right anymore. Your favorite jeans pinch, regular bras are uncomfortable, and when you bend over, you realize: Yes, this belly is really here now. Welcome to the 24th week of pregnancy – a time when your body is changing rapidly, and you may be thinking seriously about practical equipment for the first time. The good news: you need less than advertising wants you to believe, but a few targeted purchases can make the difference between being annoyed every day and feeling truly comfortable.

Watercolor illustration of a pregnant woman in her second trimester standing in warm morning sunlight by a bedroom window, gently holding her rounded belly, wearing a flowing oversized cream linen dress, soft peachy-golden light streaming through sheer curtains, potted plants on the windowsill, serene and hopeful atmosphere, painted in delicate pastel tones with gentle brush strokes, intimate medium shot from a slightly low angle suggesting growth and anticipation, shallow depth of field focusing on her peaceful expression

Clothes That Grow With You: Your New Comfort Uniform

In the 24th week, your baby bump is no longer to be overlooked – and that's beautiful! But it also means: Your previous wardrobe is reaching its limits. Now is the perfect time to invest in comfortable, flexible clothing that will serve you well until birth and beyond.

The Daily Essentials

  • Two to three long, loose-fitting dresses or oversized shirts: They adjust to your growing belly without constricting and work perfectly during breastfeeding as well. Choose breathable fabrics like cotton or modal.
  • A high-quality maternity jogger: Sounds unremarkable, but it's worth its weight in gold! With a soft waistband that sits below the belly, you can wear it at home, while walking, and even at doctor’s visits. Don't hesitate to invest a bit more here – you'll be wearing it daily.
  • Two well-fitting maternity bras: Your breasts have already changed and will continue to grow. Seamless, adjustable bras without underwire are gentle on sensitive tissue and prepare you softly for breastfeeding.
  • Comfortable low-heeled shoes: Your center of gravity shifts, and your ligaments become looser due to hormones. Flat, supportive shoes with a good footbed help prevent back pain.

Tip: Don't buy too much at once. Your body is still changing, and many pieces can be worn after the birth as well. Quality over quantity pays off here.

Watercolor scene of a cozy living room corner with soft afternoon light, a comfortable armchair draped with a knitted blanket in warm terracotta tones, a pregnancy pillow in gentle sage green leaning against it, a small side table with a water bottle and a book about pregnancy, warm wooden floors, potted fern in the background, peaceful and inviting atmosphere, painted with loose flowing brushstrokes, wide angle view suggesting a safe nest, deep focus showing the entire restful space

Sleep and Relaxation: Invest in Your Night's Rest

From the 24th week, your belly becomes noticeable at night – sleeping on your back becomes uncomfortable, and on your stomach, impossible. Many pregnant women report sleep problems now, and good sleep is essential for your well-being and your baby's development.

The Nursing Pillow: Your New Best Friend

A high-quality nursing pillow is not a luxury purchase, but one of the most sensible investments during the entire pregnancy. You can tuck it between your knees, place it under your belly, or lean against it – it supports your body exactly where you need it. After birth, it becomes an indispensable helper for breastfeeding or bottle-feeding.

What to Look For: Choose a pillow filled with microbeads or spelt that adapts to your body shape. The cover should be removable and washable – you will wash it more often than you think.

  • Side-sleeper pillows (approximately 170-190 cm) for full body support
  • Classic C or U-shaped nursing pillows for flexible use
  • Additional small pillow for lower back support
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Body Care: Small Rituals, Big Impact

Your skin is working hard – it stretches, becomes more sensitive, sometimes drier or oilier than usual. Now is the right time to establish mindful care rituals that do you good and connect you with your changing body.

The Care Essentials

  • Gentle, fragrance-free soap or wash lotion: Your skin may react more sensitively to fragrances. Mild products are gentler on the natural skin barrier.
  • Rich body lotion or oil: Daily moisturizing – especially on your belly, breasts, and thighs – nourishes the stretched skin and can relieve itching. While it’s not scientifically proven to prevent stretch marks, the massage feels good and creates a moment of connection with your baby.
  • Aluminum-free deodorant: Many pregnant women sweat more than usual. A mild, aluminum-free deodorant gives you freshness without irritating your skin.
  • Small hygiene bag for on the go: Pack refreshing wipes, a mini deodorant, and maybe a facial spray – perfect for longer days out.

These small rituals are more than care – they are moments in which you pause, appreciate your body, and prepare for the upcoming time.

Watercolor infographic-style illustration showing a simple visual checklist for week 24 pregnancy essentials, featuring gentle hand-drawn icons: a flowing dress, a pregnancy pillow, a water bottle, comfortable shoes, a skincare bottle, and a small baby onesie, arranged in a circular composition with soft connecting lines, painted in pastel blues, pinks and creams, clean and organized layout with subtle text labels in elegant handwriting style, top-down view suggesting a planning moment, all elements clearly visible with even focus

First Baby Basics: What You Can Get Now

In the 24th week, you are right in the middle of the second trimester – many expectant parents now feel ready to start thinking about the time after birth. You don’t have to set up the entire nursery yet, but getting a few basic essentials can relieve pressure later on.

The First Baby Shopping List

  • Six to eight bodysuits in sizes 56/62: Wrap bodysuits are the most practical for newborns. Choose cotton and wash them before the first use.
  • Four to six sleepers or pajamas: Here too, comfort should come before design. Snap buttons make nighttime diaper changing much easier.
  • Two to three hats: Babies lose a lot of heat through their heads – even in summer, thin hats are useful.
  • Muslin cloths (10-15 pieces): They serve as spit-up cloths, changing mats, sun protection – absolute all-rounders.
  • A cozy swaddle blanket or a light baby blanket: For security and warmth in the first weeks.

You do not yet need a baby bed, stroller, or a complete changing table. These larger purchases can be tackled calmly in the third trimester when you can better assess what fits your lifestyle.

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Movement and Well-being: Equipment for Active Pregnant Women

If you enjoy being active, the 24th week is a good time to adjust your routine. Your belly changes your center of gravity, and some exercises will become uncomfortable – but movement remains important for your physical and mental well-being.

Sensible Purchases for Movement

  • Comfortable sports bras with strong support: Invest in at least two high-quality maternity sports bras that provide good support for your growing breasts.
  • Breathable athletic wear: Well-fitted maternity leggings with belly support and loose tops make yoga, swimming, or walks more enjoyable.
  • Yoga or exercise mat: For gentle stretching, pregnancy yoga, or relaxation exercises at home.
  • Large exercise ball: Perfect for sitting (relieves the back), for gentle pelvic exercises, and later also useful for birth preparation and calming the baby.

Movement doesn't have to be complicated – even a daily 20-30 minute walk is good for you and your baby, promotes circulation, and lifts your mood.

What You Can (Still) Skip

The baby industry is huge, and it's tempting to buy everything now. But some things you really only need later – or not at all:

  • Special maternity jeans: If you already have comfortable dresses and joggers, you can skip these. Many people wear them for just a few weeks.
  • Expensive maternity fashion collections: Focus on a few well-combinable basics instead of many pieces that you will only wear briefly.
  • Complete nursery sets: Wait until you know where your baby will actually sleep. Many newborns sleep in the parents' bedroom for the first few months.

Remember: Less is often more. The most important things are those that make your everyday life easier now and help you enjoy this special time.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I start buying baby gear?

The 24th week is a good time for initial basics like bodysuits and muslin cloths. Larger purchases such as strollers or cribs can be addressed between weeks 28 and 34 – then you will still have energy but also a clearer picture of your needs.

Do I need a belly band or support belt already?

Not necessarily. Many pregnant women manage without one. However, if you experience back pain or are on your feet a lot, a belly support belt can provide relief. It's best to discuss this with your midwife or doctor.

How many maternity clothing items do I really need?

A basic wardrobe of 2-3 pants/leggings, 2-3 dresses, 5-6 tops, and 2-3 bras is completely sufficient. You can wash and mix and match – you don’t need more.

Is a pregnancy pillow really worth it?

Absolutely! It’s one of the purchases that almost all pregnant women later consider indispensable. You will use it until birth and for months afterwards for breastfeeding or feeding.

Should I buy second-hand?

For clothing – both for you and the baby – second-hand is an excellent option. Many items are worn only briefly and are like new. For safety items like car seats, you should opt for new ones.

Your Personal Well-being Guide

The 24th week of pregnancy marks a turning point: Your belly is visible, your baby is moving noticeably, and you are right in the midst of this exciting journey. The right purchases – comfortable clothing, a good nursing pillow, gentle care products, and first baby basics – make your everyday life easier and give you space to enjoy this special time.

Remember: It's not about being perfectly equipped but about having what feels good for you. Listen to your body, indulge in comfort, and don't let checklists stress you out. You are doing great – and in a few months you will be holding your baby in your arms, and all these little preparations will have been worth it.