A List of Bare Necessities for My First Baby

Many shopping lists for new parents contain a plethora of items to care for a baby. While a lot of the items on the list may be helpful, many are not absolutely essential. Newborn babies actually require relatively little, and there will be time to purchase other items later as the baby grows. Here are the basics to help get new parents started.

  1. Feeding

    • What you need to feed your baby depends on whether you plan to breastfeed, bottle-feed or do a combination of both. Nursing mothers need cloth or disposable nursing pads for leaking milk; they may also find a nursing bra and/or nursing tops helpful. Bottle-feeding mothers will need bottles, bottle-cleaners and formula. A mother who breastfeeds and bottle-feeds will need all of those items and may consider purchasing a breast pump.

    Clothing

    • Newborn babies need very basic clothing such as bodysuits, sleepers, hats, gowns, socks and a few outfits for outings. Because babies soil their clothes often, it's a good idea to have on hand at least a few days' worth of clean clothing. Warm clothing for cold weather is also essential when you take your baby outside.

    Diapering

    • Parents should stock up on diapers, which may be cloth or disposable, as well as wipes. Newborns often need a change of diaper every few hours, so plan accordingly. Diaper rash cream should also be purchased, and can be used both to prevent and treat diaper rash.

    Sleeping

    • The baby will need a safe and comfortable place to sleep and at some point will sleep in a crib. However, in the early months there are other options parents can use such as a co-sleeper, bassinet or Moses basket. Keep baby bedding to a minimum. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises against the use of pillows, blankets, duvets and toys in the crib for the first year to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

    Travel

    • Babies must travel in a rear-facing infant car seat when riding in automobiles. Parents may buy a convertible car seat that can be used rear-facing in the beginning but can be turned forward facing once the child reaches the specified weight limit, usually around one year old. While it is acceptable to buy many baby items secondhand, safety advocates advise against this regarding car seats. According to the National Institutes of Health, used car seats may be unsafe because they can be missing instructions or have small cracks.

    Diaper Bag

    • Using a diaper bag is a convenient way to keep all of baby's items in one place when new parents are on the go. The bag should be big enough to carry diapers, wipes, a change of clothes and what is needed to feed the baby. Other items, such as small toys and changing pads, can also be carried in a diaper bag.

    Health

    • An infant thermometer, bulb aspirator and medicine dropper are among the most important items in terms of a baby's health. Parents may also want to purchase infant acetaminophen in advance in case of an unexpected fever or to treat pain from teething.

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