List of Things Needed for When Baby Arrives

Diapers

• If you choose to use disposable diapers, you'll need a large box of newborn and size 1 diapers. Generally, size 1 diapers fit babies over 8 pounds and newborn diapers fit babies who weigh less than 8 pounds. If you are using cloth diapers, purchase 2 to 3 dozen diapers, with up to 10 outer covers. Cloth diapers are available in several different styles, from one size fits all, to small through large sizes. You will also need diaper rash cream for your baby and a supply of wipes for changing time. You might also want a diaper bag to hold supplies while out of the house and a diaper pail for soiled diapers at home.

Clothing

• Your baby will spend more time sleeping than anything else, so make sure you have 4 to 6 sleeping outfits or sleepers with built-in feet. "Onesies," or t-shirts that snap at the baby's crotch, are also comfortable choices especially in summer and make diaper-changing easier. Socks and comfortable outfits for visits away from home are also good to have on hand. A light sweater or jacket as well as a hat are important items no matter what time of year your baby is born in case of chill.

Bedding

• You should have a bassinet at least by the time your baby arrives; a crib can wait a few months until your baby is larger. Swaddling blankets keep your baby warm and bundled, so you should have several on hand. For both your bassinet and crib, you will need a mattress cover, sheets and waterproof liners.

Feeding

• If you have decided to breast-feed your baby, you will need nursing bras and breast pads as well as a breast pump. A nursing pillow will assist during breast-feeding, and a variety of ointments are available for nursing mothers. For storing breast milk, you should have 4 or 5 small bottles. Cleaning supplies include a bottle brush and drying rack. If you are bottle-feeding, you should have 6 or 7 bottles plus nipples; 5 ounces is a good size. You will need nipples and rings for each bottle. Burp cloths are handy to protect your own clothing while feeding and burping your baby.

Bathing

• To bathe your new baby, you need an infant tub and a few sets of baby wash cloths. Plastic infant tubs as well as soft, padded tubs that fit in a sink are safe for babies and make bathing easier for parents. You should have 3 or 4 soft towels to dry your baby; hooded towels keep your baby warm after bath time. You also need baby wash and shampoo, baby nail clippers and diaper rash ointment. To take care of your baby's fine hair, purchase a soft brush and comb made especially for babies. Launder all clothing and towels in mild baby laundry detergent to prevent skin breakouts.

Medical

• Keep special items on hand in your medicine cabinet for your new baby. You will need an infant thermometer and infant acetaminophen in case of fever. Gas drops and diaper rash cream are also essentials. A nasal aspirator helps you unclog your baby's nose if needed because he cannot blow his own nose yet. Rubbing alcohol is a disinfectant, and petroleum jelly is necessary if you choose a rectal thermometer.

Car Seat

• Even if you forget diapers or other items on your list, you must have a car seat before you can take your baby home from the hospital. Your car seat will come with instructions for installation in your car, and many police and fire stations will help with installation. Infant car seats should face the rear of the car for protection in the event of a car accident. Your car seat will also come with specifications advising the weight, height and age at which you should turn the car seat to a forward-facing position.