The newborn baby shopping list

In buying your baby’s items, it is important to consider only those that you will actually need. There are so many items to consider that it can actually be overwhelming, not to mention expensive. This article contains a list of essential things to buy so that you know how much to set aside.

First, you will need to prepare the baby’s room. Here are a few items that you may want to include.

1. Crib and accessories. Some parents opt for having their babies sleep in the bed with them. But pretty soon, they will get too big for it, so it’s best to invest in a crib or bassinet. Purchase crib sheets and crib mattresses as well.

2. Dresser. Relatives and friends will no doubt shower you with baby clothing, in addition to what you have bought yourselves.

3. Nightlight or Lamp. This will illuminate your baby’s crib and your way around the room so you can prevent injury while checking at your baby in the middle of the night.

4. Books. Bedtime stories are not just for when they are older. Early exposure to words and pictures can heighten your baby’s sense of curiosity.

5. Change Table. Changing your baby’s diapers can be back-breaking – literally. Invest in a change table so that you will feel comfortable.

6. Diapers, wipes, ointments, and trash can. Cloth diapers are ideal for mothers who enjoy doing the laundry. They are a cheaper alternative too. For wipes, some prefer washcloths over disposables, but both can work. Ointments prevent and treat rashes that may erupt on your baby’s bottom. They can also help maintain the softness and suppleness of your baby’s skin. The trash can is optional, but if you choose not to buy one make sure your existing waste bin has a tight lid.

8. Sleep vest. Baby blankets can be kicked off during sleeping, so a sleep vest is really a more practical choice.

When it comes to feeding time, these items can also come in handy:

1. Breast pump. You are not expected to stay with your baby all day. If you need to do chores or go back to work, or if you would just like to take a break, a breast pump is what you need.

2. Bottles. You can have glass bottles or plastic ones. If you choose the latter, make sure the ones you purchase contain no BPA.

3. Formula. If you’re not breastfeeding, it helps to have the milk ready, just in case.

4. Booster Seat. An excellent alternative to high chairs, it doesn’t take up much space and is more inexpensive than the traditional high chairs.

For clothing, here are a few of the essential ones:

1. Onesies or one-piece outfits. These clothes are so much easier to put on babies in their first few months.

2. Socks. These will keep your baby’s feet clean and warm. You can purchase shoes when they’re already older.

3. Teething bibs. These ensure that your baby’s clothes will remain dry even when he or she gets to the teething stage.

4. Hats, sweater, jackets. These are essential in keeping your baby warm during cold nights.

5. Laundry detergent. Make sure that the detergent you’re going to purchase is safe for the baby’s skin, as they can be extremely sensitive.

When taking the baby out for a drive or to visit a few relatives, here are other items you may want to consider:

1. Car seat. Your baby’s safety is of utmost concern.

2. Diaper bag. This will probably be your best friend when going out of the house. Buy something large and stylish so that you won’t mind having to carry it around all the time.

3. Change pad. Change tables in public restrooms are not always germ-free.

4. Baby sling. This will keep your baby close to you always.

5. Stroller. In case you get tired and need to walk long distances, your baby can sleep on his or her stroller.

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September 29, 2008 | Filed Under Baby depot