As a mom-to-be, one of the preparations you’ll have to see to is stocking up on all the essential supplies that you’ll be needing for baby and you. Believe us, you don’t want to be scampering around for newborn diapers, baby wipes, or even breast pads at the very last minute.
However, with so many other things to take care of, we don’t blame you if you’ve been putting off shopping for essential items for baby and you. We figured too, that a checklist of some of the most essential items may help. So, here’s what you’ll need to have at your disposal before your baby gets here.
Clothes
You’ve probably been advised against getting too many newborn clothes as infants outgrow them pretty fast. That’s good advice indeed, but a newborn will still be needing to change outfits multiple times a day due to the inevitable mess from spit-ups, pee, and poop. The number of pieces you need will depend on the kind of daily laundry you’re willing to take up.
In any case, here’s an idea of what you should have at hand for your baby:
- Bodysuits (4 to 6)
- Short sleeve onesies (4 to 6)
- T-shirts (4 to 6)
- Short pants (2 to 4 pairs)
- Long pants (2 to 4 pairs)
- Caps (1 to 2)
- Socks or booties (4 to 6 pairs)
Mom’s needs
Nursing bras: Have at least three comfortable, well-fitting ones on standby.
Nursing wear: Choose nursing clothes that are flexible, comfortable, and have easy-to-manage openings for stress-free nursing.
Nursing pads: These underrated items are handy when dealing with leaky breasts.
Sanitary pads and panty liners: There are various types of sanitary pads in the market, as well as maternity pads to choose from.
Confinement sets: Confinement sets are a nutritional supplement for new moms which are mostly traditional. There are also modern postnatal supplements in the market that help in the same way, to nourish and rejuvenate new moms.
Feeding essentials
Nursing pillow: Have at least one of these ready to help you comfortably support your baby during feedings.
A few bibs: To catch baby drool and spit-ups.
A dozen burp cloths: Take these everywhere with you to mop up the inevitable baby spit-up and other liquid spills.
Nipple cream: Also known as nursing creams, they help ease dryness, heal cracked skin, and soothe soreness.
Nursing cover or poncho: For more discreet feedings at public places.
Breast pump: Important to every nursing mom, especially if another caregiver is to take on some of the feedings.
Formula: If you can’t or don’t plan to breastfeed, there are numerous infant formula options to choose from — Talk to your doctor about this.
6 – 10 Bottles and nipples: Even if you breastfeed exclusively, you’ll want to have bottles and newborn nipples at home if you plan to pump your breast milk.
Diapering needs
Diapers: Decide which kind of diapers you’ll be using and stock up ahead of time. Be prepared for the possibility of going through ten to 12 diapers each day during the first few weeks.
Diaper wipes: For cleaning your baby’s bottom during changes.
Diaper cream: Choose a good one to protect your little one’s tender skin against diaper rash.
A diaper pail with lid: This is a handy, effective way to store used diapers until you’re ready to take it out with the household trash.
Diaper bag: To take along everything necessary for your baby’s need, such as diaper changes, when you’re up and about. Pick a bag that suits you in terms of comfort as well as looks, because it’ll be part of your outfit for months to come. At the same time, choose a practical one that comes with a changing pad, a waterproof lining, compartments, and/or pockets to stash your keys, wallet, phone, etc.
Changing table
A stand-alone changing table generally comes with nice extras like safety railings and lots of storage space.
Nice-to-have extras
- Swaddling blankets
- Baby monitor
- Pacifiers
- Crib mobile toys
- Infant swing
- Nightlight
- Baby bouncer
- Nursing chair
- White-noise machine
Sleep & rest
Crib & mattress: Even if your newborn sleeps with you, a baby cot or crib will eventually be needed. To make your purchase go further, you can consider a convertible cot that can transform into a kiddy bed in the future.
Crib bedding: Have two or three sets of crib sheets. One to use, one in the wash and one on standby.
Baby sleeping bags: This helps to keep a baby as snug as a bug and are available in a variety of attractive designs. Consider the temperature of your baby’s room before making a purchase — Thicker material for colder temperatures and thinner ones for warmer rooms.
Bath time
Baby bathtub: There are now myriads of baby bathtubs to choose from, so pick one to suit your needs. There are even bathtubs that come with their own bath stand.
Hooded terrycloth towels: To keep baby warm and dry after a bath.
Baby toiletries which include:
- A gentle wash
- Baby shampoo
- Baby lotion
- Diaper cream
- Baby oil/baby massage oil
Health & grooming
Bulb syringe and saline drops: Important to have for clearing your baby’s stuffy nose. You can find them at pharmacies as well as baby stores.
Baby nail scissors or clippers: These help you trim your baby’s nails safely.
Baby hairbrush: Choose one with soft bristles that won’t over-stimulate the baby’s delicate scalp.
Emergency must-have
A complete first aid kit, available at pharmacies
For getting around
Baby sling carrier: Keeps your newborn close to you for comfort. It also helps to keep your hands free to get about your chores if you need to.
Stroller: For a newborn, you’ll want a stroller that reclines to almost flat. It will be a plus if it doubles up as an infant car seat. (Check out the various types of travel systems available in the market.)
Infant car seat: Look for a reliable one and install it before the baby arrives.
Featured image source: Shutterstock
