A List of Things to Get for a New Baby

Babies require a surprising amount of gear when they're born. New parents are understandably overwhelmed by the vast array of baby products when they walk into a department store or baby specialty store. Be prepared by learning the basics of what your baby truly needs his first year of life. Babies don't need everything the stores or parenting magazines try to sell, but they do need quite a few essentials.

  1. Feeding

    • Your baby will be doing a lot of eating in his first few weeks of life. Make sure you're prepared with the proper gear including formula, bottles, nipples, nipple rings, and bottle cleaners. A mother who plans to breastfeed can do without these things, but should also be prepared with a few nursing bras, a breast pump, a nursing pillow and a cover-up. Burp cloths are essential in either case. Your baby will need a whole other set of feeding supplies once he starts eating solid foods around six months of age, including a high chair, sippy cups, plastic bowls and spoons, and bibs.

    Nursery Essentials

    • Baby will be sleeping approximately sixteen hours a day in the beginning. A crib or bassinet (or both) is essential. Be sure to get proper bedding, such as a fitted crib sheet. Avoid purchasing blankets and pillows as these must be kept out of the crib. A changing table, a rocking chair or glider, a baby tub, an infant seat, a baby monitor, a baby swing, a night-light and a portable crib all make life easier as new parents.

    Clothes

    • Your new baby will need a lot of clothes his first year. Babies outgrow outfits overnight, so make sure you have plenty of outfits in each size. According to "What to Expect the First Year", you will need approximately three to 10 onesies, four to seven stretchies with feet, three to six nightgowns, two to three blanket sleepers for early fall or winter babies, one to three sweaters for winter babies, one to three hats, two to three pairs of booties or socks, three washable bibs, and a few two-piece outfits for outings.

    Getting Around

    • A car seat is the most essential item to buy for a new baby. In fact, many hospitals will not let you take baby home without one properly installed in your car. A stroller is another must have in order to stroll with your baby around town. A soft-structured carrier, sling, or pouch is also nice, but not necessary.

    Toiletries

    • Baby will go through plenty of toiletries, so stock up. Buy no-tears baby shampoo, baby soap, baby oil, baby powder, ointment, petroleum jelly, diaper wipes, cotton balls, baby nail clippers, and a baby brush.

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