Checklist for Before the Baby Is Born

Baby Feeding Items

• Expectant mothers should decide how they plan to feed the baby and shop for the appropriate items to make sure that feeding time goes smoothly. Mothers who choose to breastfeed should purchase breast pads and lansinoh cream to ensure that they are comfortable in the early weeks of nursing. A breast pump, breast milk storage bags and bottles will come in handy for mothers who would like to breastfeed after returning to work and need to pump for the baby. Mothers who choose to bottle feed should buy a few cans of formula and plenty of bottles. Bibs and burp cloths are helpful whether the baby will be breastfed or bottle fed. Some mothers prefer to stock up on baby food before the baby is born to avoid last minute shopping. Jarred food can be stored in the pantry for a long period of time, as can baby cereal as long as the body remains sealed. Baby dishes can be purchased early and kept in the cupboard until needed.

Diaper Care Items

• Diaper care items are essential for before the baby is born, as they will be needed immediately in the hospital. Diapers and wipes should be purchased in large quantities; these items are used up fast in the early months with a baby. Soft wash cloths and diaper cream may be needed if the baby has sensitive skin and develops frequent diaper rashes. If using cloth diapers, diaper detergent and a diaper bag will be needed for the dirty diapers.

Essential Care Products

• Bathing the baby will involve using items such as a baby shampoo and baby wash, along with soft wash cloths. Small baby bath tubs combined with a mesh baby bath lounger make bathing newborns easier on parents. Small, soft baby towels can be used to dry the baby and keep him warm after bath time. A small comb or soft bristled baby brush can be used to brush the infant's hair. Some parents use baby bubble bath to soothe the infant during baths. Lotion helps to prevent dry skin in newborns. A thermometer, nasal aspirator and medicine dropper are helpful in case the baby becomes ill. Nail clippers can be used to keep the baby's nails short and prevent her from scratching her face.

Baby Furniture

• It is important that expectant parents have all the necessary furniture before bringing the baby home. This means having a crib, playpen, stroller and car seat. Many parents also use an infant swing to help soothe fussy babies. A change table can be helpful for parents to raise the infant up to a high level during diaper changes. When setting up the infant's crib, parents should use the appropriate bedding--no bumpers, pillows or heavy bedding should be used, only soft sheets and light blankets.

Essential Baby Clothing

• Stocking up on clothing helps prevent parents from not having enough items for the baby to wear. Babies can soil clothing throughout the day, making it essential that there are enough clean options to change the baby into. Parents should try to have three to four outfit choices for each day of the week, along with two or three changes of clothing for naps and bed time. It is helpful to stock up on onesies, sleepers, pants, shirts, socks, hats and scratch mitts.

Baby Toy Checklist

• Toys are useful for even newborns and young babies, so many parents prefer to have toys available as soon as the baby comes home. Soft, plush toys provide a comfort and sensory experience for young babies. Large, brightly colored board books can be read and shown to newborns to encourage language and visual development. Small, noisy items that are easy to grasps are encouraged for young babies. Mirrors can be placed above the crib and changing station to allow the baby to watch himself.