‘What in the what?’: Mum-to-be’s online requests reveals heartbreaking reality

A mum has gone viral after requesting a series of “wild” items before her baby is born. But others were quick to point out the heartbreaking reality.

A mum-to-be has sparked a debate online for begging strangers online for “essentials” before she has her child. 

The countdown is on until Harriet* gives birth to her child. She’s currently 35 weeks pregnant, and there isn’t much time before her household expands. 

However, as she explained online, she’s facing a bit of trouble with the essentials she needs before the baby is born … and it’s got people talking.

Want to join the family? Sign up to our Kidspot newsletter for more stories like this. 

The post requested items like a mirror, knives and phone chargers. Picture: iStock

Mum-to-be requests a “couple of items” before baby is born

“Hello everyone,” the post began, which was posted on a community noticeboard. “I’m 35 weeks pregnant, and I’m still needing a couple of things before our baby comes.” 

Harriet explained that she isn't currently employed, and her boyfriend’s paychecks are helping support their “living arrangements and transportation”.

RELATED: 'My baby screamed her head off for an entire 3 hour flight'

See, it turns out the “couple of things” the mum-to-be required from strangers before her baby arrived wasn’t exactly a small list. 

In fact, it featured 25 items. Twenty-five! 

“I’ll post the list here, and if you have anything you could donate … please DM me,” she said. “I’m not picky about brands right now.” 

Introducing our new podcast: Mum Club! Listen and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you never miss an episode.

First, things started off pretty normal, with Harriet requesting a “breast pump with everything included” and “duckbill valves for breast pump”.

She even asked for teething toys, nappies, nursing bras and a teething gel. And you know what? These items aren’t ridiculous, so let’s move on.

Next up on the list was a selection of organisational tools, such as a “med organiser thing for me”, a portable sound machine, and a stroller organiser. Then came the breastmilk storage for the fridge and a breastmilk cooler bag. 

Again, it's not outlandish (maybe a little pricey), but we’re still going. What really got people talking was the bottom half of the list. 

In the social media post, the couple asked for anyone to donate a mirror, chargers for their phones, a curtain rod, a handbag for Harriet, kitchen knives, an ice maker and a toaster oven. 

Will the newborn be hauled into the kitchen the second they’re born? 

But in a heartwarming twist, the community was more than happy to share their unused items with Harriet, as the original person who shared the post explained. 

After all, it’s no secret that many families are struggling financially, especially with the cost of living increasing at an alarming rate worldwide. Helping others is a small way of sharing love and supporting others in the community, even if their requests are a little outlandish (and expensive). 

“Everyone in the comments was very helpful and kind to her, so all is well,” the OP said. 

RELATED: I gifted my friend baby goods and then saw them on FB Marketplace

“Are they cooking the baby?”

People were shocked at some of the “few” items Harriet requested, specifically requesting items that were clearly not baby-related. 

“A toaster oven? What?” someone fumed. “I understand the Type C Chargers. As far as I know, babies need to be constantly recharged,” said another. “And kitchen knives,” a fourth added. “Can't be having a newborn that hasn't mastered the art of dicing.”

“What in the what?!” read a comment. “Why does a baby need a toaster oven if they can’t even eat solids?”

“Are they cooking the baby?” a person asked. 

But others highlighted how kind and generous other parents can be, offering a helping hand to those who may not have everything they need before welcoming a child. 

“This seems like all important and not indulgent things that someone may have an extra one and be able to donate,” someone defended the mum-to-be. 

*Names have been changed

Originally published as ‘What in the what?’: Mum-to-be’s online requests reveals heartbreaking reality