What Things Should You Buy Before Your Baby Is Born?

Although you can wait until after your baby arrives safely to purchase many baby supplies, there are a few things that you will need right away when you bring the baby home. Purchase these items at least a month before the due date so you will be prepared if your baby is born early.

  1. Car Seat

    • All states require by law that a baby is transported in an approved car seat. Infants need to ride in a rear-facing car seat. Carefully install your car seat in your vehicle before the baby is born. If you are unsure of whether it is installed correctly, drop by the local police station for a safety check. Leave the car seat in your car so you will have it with you for the ride home from the hospital.

    Sleeping

    • The baby needs a safe place to sleep upon arrival at home. Purchase either a crib and mattress or a bassinet. In addition, purchase at least two to three tight-fitting sheets for the mattress. This leaves you with a spare sheet to use while you are washing the other.

    Clothing

    • Purchase at least four one-piece outfits in a newborn size, which typically fit until your baby is 9 lbs. or heavier. If your baby is due in the summer, opt for onesies that snap under the diaper, or in the winter choose long-sleeved footed pajamas. Also purchase a few outfits in a 3-month size in case your baby is especially big and will not fit in newborn clothes. A wearable blanket will help keep your baby safe and warm at night. Other essential articles of clothing include a few pairs of socks and a couple of soft cotton hats.

    Diapering

    • Newborn babies can go through up to a dozen diapers per day, so purchase enough diapers to get through at least the first few days. Have at least 40 newborn-sized diapers on hand, plus at least one package of baby wipes. Although a changing table and pad is not essential, this will help keep your baby comfortable and safe while you change diapers. In addition, you should have a bag you can use to tote diapers with you when you and your baby need to go out.

    Other Supplies

    • Purchase a few washcloths for sponge baths during your baby's first couple weeks. You will need some soft cotton receiving blankets to swaddle your baby and help ease the transition out of the womb. Have a pacifier on hand to help soothe the baby if needed. If you plan to breastfeed the baby, have at least one bottle and formula on hand for emergencies. If you are planning to bottle-feed, get a few bottles and plenty of formula for the first week of feeding.

    2. Previous:

    Next:

    • How to Buy Baby Clothes Without Knowing the Baby's Gender
      You want to buy gifts for a baby shower or buy clothes for your unborn child. You know pink is for girls and blue is for boys, but what if you dont know the babys gender yet? Buying baby clothes when you dont know the babys gender doesnt have to be t
    • The Effects of Alcohol During Conception
      While it is generally accepted that drinking in moderation is acceptable and can even provide health benefits, heavy consumption of alcohol can lead to liver diseases, heart disease and infertility. Drinking while trying to conceive can increase your
    • How To Handle Gender Disappointment
      We often tell our partners, families, and friends (and ourselves) that all we want is a healthy baby. But whether we want to admit it or not, we often have a preference for having a male or female child. While we often use the term gender to