The task of buying your first baby can be exciting and overwhelming. It’s hard to distinguish between “wants” and “needs” and extremely hard to focus on your first trip to Babies “R” Us.
Below is a list of baby items, toys, feeding and sleeping. I’m not talking about what you’ll need for toileting, diapering, or clothing; be sure to add these items to your list.
Newborn needs:
Infant car seat: you will need a rear-facing infant seat. I am a big fan of the Graco Snug Ride.
diaper bag: Invest in one that will last, is easy to clean, and easy to organize. Make it fancy too. A Polka Dot Moon offers many modern options.
Walker: Some lifestyles call for a jogging stroller, while many parents can get by with a simple umbrella stroller.
Conveyor: You will have several options in this category and it is a very personal choice.
Most of my friends swear by the Bjorn front carrier, but many love to wear a carrier, especially one with a fun pattern like the ones from Serena & Lily. Personally, I preferred the stroller and the baby carrier inserted into a stroller. As my babies got older, I found I had a lot of use for a framed backpack, but this really shouldn’t be on your “needs” list since you won’t be using it right away. If this is your first baby, I suggest that you wait until after the baby is born, take the baby with you, and try various carries to find the one you are comfortable using.
Toys: For the first few weeks, your baby will enjoy your face more, but eventually your baby will like some variety. A brightly colored rattle, black and white patterned books, and anything with a variety of textures are all good choices.
Activity: An inflatable seat or a swing will be the perfect solution to give your baby a new vision of the world. Fisher Price makes a handy portable swing that works great for home and travel.
Bottle feeding: You will need to start with 4-ounce bottles and switch to 8-ounce bottles as your baby gets older. You may want to invest in a variety of nipples until you find what your baby prefers. If your baby is formula-fed, it helps to have enough to get him through the first week at home. Your doctor can advise you how much this can be or you can use this guide: Multiply the baby’s weight by 2.5 ounces of formula.
Breast-feeding: Nursing bras: 3 to 4, nursing pads, nipple cream, and a breast pump. Several options are available: manual, personal, electric, and hospital grade. Usually the most important factor when making this purchase is budget.
Burp cloths and bibs: Buy several of these and keep them close by: in the car, diaper bag, stroller, nursery, and kitchen.
sleeping: Many parents are eager to get the crib set up before baby comes home from the hospital, but the truth is, most babies don’t sleep in one for a few weeks. If you’re delivering the baby in your room, a bassinet, bassinet, or co-sleeper will keep the baby close and safe. A bassinet is a great option if the baby will be sleeping in different rooms. It is easy to transport. As a safety precaution, you should not transport the bassinet with the baby inside.
Other sleep items include:
Cot and mattress: Choose a mattress that is not too soft; a firm mattress helps prevent SIDS.
Fitted Crib Sheets: Keep at least 3 on hand to make middle-of-the-night changes that much quicker and easier.
Waterproof linings: These help protect the mattress from accidents.
Swaddling blankets: A blanket designed specifically for swaddling works much better than a receiving blanket. A well swaddled baby often equates to a comfortably sleeping baby. Buy 2 to make laundry time easier.
Monitor: For many parents, this item falls into the “wish” category, while others just can’t live without it. If your house isn’t too big and you’re sure your baby will be easily heard, then you probably won’t need a monitor. If the monitor gives you peace of mind, then it may be worth the cost.