Preparing for a New Baby Checklist

Feeding

• Parents who bottle feed their babies require eight 4-ounce bottles, a bottle and nipple brush, and one or two cans of formula. Wait to be sure the baby tolerates the type of formula before stocking up on more. For parents who breastfeed their infants, have a few 4-ounce bottles available, as well as a breast pump and milk storage bags, so that other family members can share in the joy of feeding. For both breast and bottle feeding, have a dozen burp cloths and bibs to keep the baby and caregiver̵7;s clothing clean and dry.

Diapering

• Parents who use cloth diapers require four dozen cloth diapers, eight waterproof covers and two dozen baby washcloths. For disposable diapering, purchase one or two packages of newborn-size diapers and a box of disposable wipes. The baby may grow out of the newborn size by the time the first or second package runs out, so do not purchase too many packages of this size. For both diapering choices, add a jar of barrier cream, a changing pad and a diaper pail to keep odors locked up until garbage or laundry day.

Clothing

• For the newborn stage, essential clothing items include eight onesies, eight nightgowns or sleepers, two newborn hats, two pairs of scratch mittens, eight pairs of baby socks and four or five outfits. During cold weather, have a snowsuit or bunting bag for outside trips. After birth, babies like to feel swaddled and receiving blankets help to wrap the baby snugly. Have seven receiving blankets and two or three larger baby blankets.

Bathing

• Baby needs for bath time include baby soap and shampoo, or an all-in-one baby cleanser, a dozen baby washcloths, a baby brush, two or three hooded towels, and a small baby bathtub. Purchase a traditional baby bathtub with a separate insert for the newborn or a modern bathtub with a built-in reclining seat for newborns and an upright seat for the next stage. Some also come with heat sensors to let parents know if the bath water is too hot.

Sleeping

• For babies who sleep on their own, parents need a bassinet or crib and fitted sheets. For co-sleeping, consider a bassinet in which the side can be lowered for convenient nighttime feedings. For either sleeping arrangement, parents should have a blanket or two to keep the baby warm or a sleeping sack, which eliminates the possibility of the baby getting a blanket over her head.

Traveling

• For mothers giving birth in the hospital, a baby car seat is necessary right away to bring the baby home and is needed thereafter for any car travels. For walking trips, invest in a stroller or carriage that reclines. To bring along extra baby supplies on any trip out, splurge on an attractive and functional diaper bag.

Health and Safety

• To be prepared for illnesses, have a baby thermometer in the home as well as a baby bulb syringe or nasal aspirator. Other useful items for illnesses include a medicine dropper and over-the-counter fever medication. To prevent scratch injuries in babies who do not leave on scratch mittens or who have outgrown them, have a set of baby nail clippers and scissors on hand as well. To be able to hear the baby during naptime, invest in a baby monitor and keep the base piece in the baby's sleeping area.