What Do You Need for a Newborn?

Shopping for a newborn can be overwhelming. While certain items are needed for a baby's well being, others are considered luxury purchases. A baby's daily activities require some essential items.

  1. Sleeping

    • A safe place to sleep is a necessity. Babies can start in a traditional crib, or you can consider a bassinet or co-sleeper next to your bed for the beginning. A firm mattress, mattress pads and fitted sheets are all that is required for bedding. Use sleep sacks to keep baby safe while sleeping.

    Diapering

    • Use disposable, cloth or a combination of diapers. A newborn will go through about 90 diapers a week. Have a safe location to change the baby's diaper. Changing tables aren't a necessity, but make sure you have plenty of wipes, diaper cream and a diaper pail nearby. Have a stocked diaper bag.

    Bathing

    • A baby bathtub is a convenient item to have as are baby towels and washcloths. Special baby soap, shampoo and lotion are also needed. Other bathroom items are baby nail clippers, hairbrush, petroleum jelly, thermometer and first aid kit.

    Clothing

    • Undershirts that snap on the side will not irritate the umbilical cord stump in newborns so purchase side snap and under the diaper snap styles. Babies also need bibs, day outfits, sleepers, socks, caps, sun hat, sweaters and day outfits. Snow suits and mittens are needed for babies born in the winter.

    Feeding

    • Breastfeeding mothers need nursing bras, a nursing pillow, breast pads and possibly a breast pump. Bottle feeding parents need various bottles, a bottle brush, and formula. Highchairs and eating utensils will be needed around six months.

    Other Needs

    • A car seat is the one item that must be purchased new for safety reasons. Also, consider what type of stroller and baby sling will best meet your needs. A dresser, rocking chair and baby monitor make a comfortable nursery. Blankets, pacifiers and burp clothes provide basic comfort. Babies are entertained through a swing, bouncy seat, baby gym, play pen and basic toys. Also make sure your home is baby-proofed.

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