Things Needed for a Newborn Baby
Being at home with a brand-new baby can sometimes be an overwhelming experience. With a bit of planning, it is possible to reduce the stress of being a new parent. By knowing what you'll need ahead of time and having it ready when your baby is born, you can spend less time worrying and more time getting to know the newest member of your family.
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Clothing
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Be sure to wash all clothing items before your baby wears them Newborn infants can be messy little creatures! Infants sometimes need several changes of clothing per day. The following is a basic list of clothing items you will need for your new baby. Keep in mind, the more items of clothing you have available, the less time you will spend doing laundry. However, by accumulating lots of outfits, the amount of laundry you have to do may, at times, seem overwhelming.
5-10 bodysuits (infant t-shirts, often called "onesies," that usually snap at the crotch)
5-10 weather-appropriate sleepers
5-10 pairs of infant socks
1-2 soft cotton hats, depending on weather conditions
Feeding items
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Before your baby is born, you have likely decided whether you will be breastfeeding or formula feeding. If you are breastfeeding, you may need breast pads and burp cloths, as well as a breast pump, breast milk storage bags and several four-ounce bottles if others will be feeding the baby.
If you are formula feeding, keep in mind that most newborns will have two to four ounces of formula approximately every two hours. You will need eight to ten four-ounce bottles and burp cloths. Infant formula can come in several different forms: powdered, liquid that does not need to be mixed with water and liquid that will need to be mixed with water. Have spring water on hand for mixing if you are not choosing the premixed formula. Making several bottles for the day and storing them in the refrigerator can help cut down on the amount of time it takes to make a bottle. Be sure to follow the directions on how to mix the formula very carefully. Always test the warmth of a bottle on your inner wrist before feeding it to your baby.
Miscellaneous
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Be sure to use gentle soap when bathing your newborn Some other items you may need for your baby include, but are not limited to:
Diapers: Newborns may need to be changed ten to twelve times per day. As a guideline, try to change your newborn before each meal, immediately following a bowel movement, and after they wake up from a nap.
Blankets: Many newborns enjoy being swaddled. Light cotton blankets are a good choice for swaddling.
Bathing: Until the umbilical cord detaches, your newborn will enjoy sponge baths. Hooded towels and baby washcloths can help with this task. Infant soap isn't necessary for these baths, but can be added if you like. Newborns often enjoy a gentle massage with baby lotion after a sponge bath.
Outdoor clothing: Be sure to dress your newborn warmly when venturing outdoors in colder weather. A sweater and hat with a blanket in the stroller or car seat is usually sufficient.
Pacifiers: If you choose to use a pacifier to soothe your newborn, be sure to have several different kinds on hand. Sterilize them before giving them to your baby.
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The cost of baby blankets can vary greatly depending on several factors:Material:* Cotton: Typically the most affordable option, ranging from $10 to $30.* Flannel: Softer and warmer, priced between $15 and $40.* Wool: Known for warmth and durability
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