Preparing For A New Family Edition?
Advance shopping to get everything you need for your baby is essential to stay ready from day 1 of the baby…
For this reason..
Newbabysmell.com has selected a newborn checklist of items and products that will help you dress, transport, bathe, and feed your baby during his first year of life.
In this article we will answer the following questions:
- What do I need for baby’s first few weeks?
- What do I need to buy for baby’s first year?
- what additional items to consider?
- …and a lot More!
Related: Discover The 9 Best Crib Sheets For a Comfortable Night Sleep
Feeding Necessaries
Regardless of which method you choose to feed your little one, the newborn checklist below gives you a clear idea of what you need for baby food items.
Nursing Clothes:
For new breastfeeding mothers, lightweight clothes, and nursing pads are a good option.
Get nursing bras, pajamas, and breastfeeding pieces, along with creams and nipple cream to protect your skin.
Breast Pump:
There are different types available in the market such as electric and manual breast pumps.
Choose between pumps that have an open or closed system, or pumps that operate on one or both breasts at the same time.
Sterilizers:
If you are breastfeeding or bottle feeding your newborn, you need to sterilize the nipples and bottles until the baby is one year old.
Formula:
If you are also formula feeding, you will need to add feeding supplies to the baby shopping list.
Always purchase the type of formula that is recommended by the pediatrician.
It is best to start with one pack to find out if your newborn is allergic, discomfort, or constipated from this particular brand.
Feeding Bottle:
The anti-colic nipples on feeding bottles are the best kind for newborns as it reduces the amount of air that the child swallows while feeding in this way.
Keep in mind, though,
..feeding bottles should be BPA-free and of good quality so that they can withstand high temperatures.
Besides, you can buy a bottle drying rack to keep them separated from other things, and bottle warmer to warm the milk before serving.
Bottle Cleaning Brush:
Your feeding bottle must be cleaned of food debris after each feeding.
The combination of bottle sterilization with a cleaning brush can help maintain hygiene and health.
Thermos:
The flask is an ideal container for storing hot water. Where boiling water can be kept in a thermos and used to mix formula.
Related: Top 10 Baby Bottle Warmers
Bibs and Burp Cloths:
While breastfeeding or breastfeeding your child, a bib can be used on the baby to avoid spills and mess.
They help a lot!
Burp clothes are ideal for eliminating spills, absorbing saliva, and keeping your clothes clean while feeding your newborn.
The support pillow also helps you maintain a comfortable position while breastfeeding your baby.
Must-Haves Bedding Essentials
Although it is advisable to let your child sleep in your room for the first two months, it is ideal if your child’s sleeping area is planned.
If you decide to co-sleep, it is essential to keep the child’s area safe and protected.
A blanket and blankets can be added depending on the weather conditions.
Here are the basics to get for your baby’s sleeping routine:
Mattresses & Cribs:
A lightweight crib with a new, sturdy and well-stocked mattress is the number one item on your crib’s essentials list.
Parents should choose products with soft and hard sides when choosing mattresses for their babies.
To promote the healthy development of bones, babies can sleep on the hard side of the mattress when they are young, and they can be replaced when they grow up. More comfortable soft surface.
Related: Top 8 Baby Crib Mattresses
Baby Blankets and Covers:
Good quality lint-free blankets and sheets are the best choice for your newborn’s bedding.
Blankets should be breathable!
Mattress protectors or quick-drying sheets are essential to ensure your child has a dry and comfortable bed to sleep in.
Mosquito netting:
Extra caution is required when it comes to mosquitoes around your newborn.
A mosquito net with ultrasound mosquito repellent can protect your child from bites and diseases.
Baby monitor:
If your child sleeps in his sleeping room, we recommend you to purchase a baby monitor, as it will help you monitor the baby while sleeping.
Make sure it’s the rechargeable type that will last the longest.
Related: Top 10 Baby Monitors
Roller Toys:
Add a cool touch to your baby’s bed by hanging spinning toys made from safe and non-plastic suspensions.
This will add color to the room and keep your little one busy as well.
Related: Sensory Games and Toys For Children: Are They Really Important?
Diapering Essentials
When you think of newborns, the first aspect that comes to mind besides the word “cute”, is diapers.
As this item has a prime position on the kids’ must-have shopping list.
Diapers are generally divided into reusable and disposable diapers:
Disposable Diapers:
You should avoid purchasing diapers in bulk.
Alternatively, you can buy small packages of 3 brands and try each on the baby.
Depending on which brand is most comfortable for him, buy the rest in bulk for your child. These diapers should come in handy during the outdoors.
Related: Best Baby Disposable Diapers Review
In the first few months of the baby’s birth, be sure to choose a soft and low-irritating diaper, such as Pampers Swaddler Sensitive.
When the baby is a little bigger and the skin is no longer so tender! Thus, parents can switch to a cheaper Pampers Cruiser, Huggies snug & dry and other brands of diapers.
Reusable Diapers:
Also called as cloth diapers!
These are a safe option for a baby’s delicate skin.
However, these diapers should be changed as soon as they are contaminated, which requires you to buy them more often so that you do not run out before you can throw them in the laundry
Babies grow fast and the size of newborn diapers also changes quickly!
That’s said,
..newborn diapers do not need to be stocked too much.
Related: Best Baby Cloth Diapers Review
Rash Cream:
Buy a good quality diaper rash cream and keep it close at hand. Use it according to the instructions of your child’s doctor.
Related: The Best 5 Diaper Rash Treatments
Baby Wipes:
you should clean up the back of your newborn in a way nice and healthy. Wet wipes allow you to retain moisture in your baby’s skin while leaving the area clean and smelling fresh.
Related: Best Baby Disposable Wipes
Changing Pad:
Keep bed sheets and changing table from dirt while changing your baby’s diaper on the changing mat.
Easy to clean and use..
These mats are extremely useful while traveling.
Related: Best 10 Baby Diaper Changing Pads
Disposal Bags:
Disposable diaper bags help you get rid of your baby’s dirty diapers in a safe and sanitary manner when you are at home or on-the-go.
They are very light and you can put a few bags in the baby diaper bag – just in case.
Besides, they keep your diaper pail smells good longer.
Baby Clothes
Nothing is cuter than the little childrens’ clothes.
However, buying them has some challenges that new parents must take into considerations to avoid wasting their money on useful pieces…
Here are some tips when buying babies’ clothes:
- Baby clothes usually come in sizes that correspond to their age in months, but sizes vary widely by brand. Finding the appropriate size clothes will be easier if you look for brands that include the baby’s weight and measurement on the label.
- Some babies skip newborn size and go straight to 3-month-old clothes, but since it’s hard to predict, it costs nothing to have a pair of newborn clothes.
- Make sure you also have a few outfits in the next size before your child starts to need it, babies grow very fast! One way to have a greater variety of sizes without spending so much is to exchange baby clothes with your friends.
- For everyday use, buy clothes soft and loose that allow your baby to move and explore comfortably.
- Try to invest a little in quality clothing. They will last longer and will withstand the many washes that you will have to subject them to.
- Avoid clothing with strings, ribbons, and tassels, which could get caught around the baby’s neck and suffocate him
- Organic cotton clothing is made without strong dyes or potentially dangerous chemicals for the baby, but it is also often more expensive.
- Make sure to always use a mild, fragrance-free laundry detergent, preferably made especially for baby’s clothes, to prevent irritation to their delicate skin.
Related: Camo Baby Clothes
Necessary clothing items for your Child:
One-piece suits (from 7 to 10):
They are like pajamas that serve both to sleep and to play.
They are very convenient, especially in the first months, when babies sleep most of the day.
Choose those that open at the front with snaps or zippers that go down the entire leg so that you can change your baby’s diapers easily, without having to remove the clothes over the head.
Tights or leggings type pants (from 5 to 7):
One of the advantages of two-piece garments is that you can change them without having to give your baby another complete outfit.
Besides, the soft and elastic materials will be more comfortable for your baby because they expand as your child grows.
Shirts or T-shirts (from 5 to 7):
You will need some short and long sleeve shirts, with elastic collars, that match the pants and leggings.
Jackets or sweaters (3-5):
Choose zip-up sweaters and jackets that are easy to put on and off.
Fleece overalls are very soft and warm, and they are also easy to put over lighter clothing.
Buy them in larger sizes and look for ones with wide sleeves that are easy to dress up without having to tug here and there.
The ones with a hood are very practical because they allow you to easily cover the baby’s head when the temperature drops.
Hats (2) and mittens (2 pairs):
Your baby will need a wide-brimmed hat for the sun in the summer and a warm hat that covers his ears in the winter.
Mittens or mittens for babies are like little bags with an elastic band around the wrist and are practical to put on and take off.
Socks or booties (5 to 7 pairs):
Ask any mother and she will confirm that baby socks and booties will disappear as if by magic, especially when they go out for a walk.
Buy the cheapest ones, since you will surely have to replace several pairs within a short period of time.
Pajamas or rompers (5 to 7):
When putting your baby’s sleepwear on, keep three things in mind: their safety, their comfort, and the ease of changing their diapers in the middle of the night.
As cute as they are, avoid pajamas with many snaps or that are difficult to remove and put on.
Other Useful Clothes:
Fancy clothes (1 or 2 outfits):
You may want to invest in a couple of outfits for special occasions or when you take photos of your baby. Since it is difficult to calculate in advance the size your child will need, it is best to wait to buy the suit when the date of the event approaches.
Shoes:
The children ‘s shoes are lovely but do not have to buy real shoes for your baby in the first year of life.
Some experts recommend that you wait to put shoes on until he can walk well, as footwear can interfere with his development.
Hair ornaments:
They are unnecessary but completely adorable!
Even if your baby has almost no hair at all, she will look lovely with a colorful headband, an elastic headband, or a bow or bow on her head.
Just make sure the accessory isn’t too tight or too stiff or rough.
Diaper covers:
When you put on a little summer dress or leave your girl without pants, a diaper cover that matches the rest of her outfit will add a touch of style.
Bathing & Cleaning
The first time, newborns only need a quick wipe with a sponge or cotton swab.
However, it won’t be long before your child enjoys a fun sprinkle of water in the bath. This is also a quality time when parents can enjoy bonding with their newborn babies.
Here are the essentials to make the best out of the baby bath:
Bathtub:
Depending on the baby’s size and comfort, the ideal bathtub can be chosen from the range of options available in the market.
And while plastic basins are easier to clean baby bath essentials, a convertible tub can expand as your child grows.
You can also choose inflatable or foldable pools, which come in handy while traveling!
Hooded towels:
2-3 soft, absorbent bath hooded towels can be purchased and distributed over days.
Light-colored cotton towels are the best option.
Baby lotion and shampoo:
Tear-free, fragrance-free shampoo, and baby lotion are must-have products.
A small bottle can be purchased and checked how it interacts with your newborn’s skin before purchasing more.
Massage and Hair Oil:
Traditional oils such as almonds or coconut oil can be used to massage your baby.
If you buy bottled oils, get gentle, organic oils, or check with your child’s doctor for recommendations.
Baby cream:
Moisturize the skin of your newborn with a good baby cream, which should be applied after every bath.
Do a patch test of your child’s skin before applying them all over the body.
Safety Essentials
You will need to implement certain safety measures in your home as soon as your baby can roll over, and crawl.
Don’t forget to lock up all your medicines, cleaning supplies, vitamins, and makeup.
Below are the items you can use to keep the baby safe from the most common dangers:
Security bars:
If you have stairs, buy security bars for the upper and lower floors. You can also use security bars to block out areas of your home that may contain things dangerous to your baby, such as the bathroom and kitchen.
Related: The Top 7 Baby Gates To Keep Your House Safe
Outlet Protectors:
Exposed electrical outlets are an irresistible temptation for curious explorers.
Keep them covered!
Locks for drawers and doors:
There are several types of closures, with different opening and closing mechanisms.
Once you install them, test them by pulling hard on the drawer or door several times to make sure your child can’t open them.
Locks for toilet lids:
Babies can drown in 2 inches (5 centimeters) of water, so keep them (and their toys) away from the toilet with a lock that locks it.
These locks are closed above the toilet lid and some are opened by pressing a button or moving a small lever.
Anchors to fix furniture to the wall:
They are straps and hardware to anchor bookcases, televisions, and other large and heavy objects.
They keep your baby safe while walking, as he cannot overturn them if he holds onto them.
Going Outside
Key baby items must be ready whether you are preparing to eat or go out:
Belt bag, shawl, or baby carrier:
Carrying your baby in a shawl or belt bag allows you to have him very close to you and at the same time leaves your hands free for other things.
Note: When choosing a front carrier or backpack, make sure the straps and buckles can be adjusted to securely hold your baby.
It’s also a good idea to find one that can be easily washed or cleaned.
Stroller:
You will need an efficient way to transport your baby. Before buying a stroller, carefully consider your specific needs.
Do you want it to have a seat that reclines so your baby naps more comfortably? Will you go up and down a lot of stairs? Do you need one for long walks or for running or jogging with your baby?
Related: Buckle Up With The 10 Best Baby Strollers
Car seat:
your baby must always travel in a car safety seat.
Safety regulations have changed over the years and you will need a seat that meets current requirements.
That’s said,
..don’t be tempted to buy a second-hand car seat.
Also, if the chair was in an accident, it is unusable, so don’t buy it if you don’t know where it came from.
Related: 8 Best Baby Car Seats: Everything For The Safety Of Children
Car seat cover or blanket:
In cold weather, cover your baby by placing the blanket over his car seat.
Do not tuck him in thick or bulky jackets because they prevent the seat’s safety straps from fitting well and protecting him adequately.
Curtains or umbrellas for car windows:
Curtains will protect your baby’s eyes and skin from the intense sun.
Other Useful things:
Baby carrying backpack:
Once your baby can hold his head well for long periods (around 5 or 6 months old), you may want to invest in a baby-carrying backpack, especially if you travel a lot or like hiking.
Your child can see the world from a higher vantage point and you can easily navigate stairs and shops with your hands free.
Related: Best Baby Diaper Bags
Portable Crib:
A portable, collapsible crib is useful in many situations.
You can use it when they spend the night at Grandma’s house, or when your baby needs a safe and protected place to play, either at home or when traveling.
Many portable cribs come with a raised surface for changing diapers or a removable bassinet.
Cover or sack for the baby stroller:
If where you live is very cold, these covers, which are like sleeping bags, will keep your baby warm when you take him out for a walk.
Waterproof cover for the stroller:
It is a transparent plastic cover that fits over the stroller and protects your child from rain and wind.
Baby chair:
They are made for babies with good head control (they usually have it around 4 months).
They are molded foam chairs that provide the necessary support to keep the baby sitting on the floor.
Your baby will stay in place while you finish any chores around him.
Rocking chair for you:
A comfortable chair where you can gently rock your baby will come in handy in the first year, especially when your child wakes up to eat.
And later on, it will be the perfect place for you to read him a story before putting him to bed
Health Essentials
Making regular visits to the pediatrician’s office or hospital is important for keeping your child healthy.
However, few things must be available at home while taking care of your child’s health.
Such as:
First Aid Kit:
From a digital thermometer to a pair of tweezers, read the full list of what you’ll need in our article on what to include in your baby’s first aid kit.
Related: Top 9 Thermometers For Babies
Rubber knob:
You will use it with drops of saline solution to clean your baby’s stuffy nose.
Teething toys:
These are toys that your baby can chew on (many are kept in the refrigerator) to ease the discomfort of teething.
Vaporizer or humidifier:
Turn on in your baby’s room to relieve nasal congestion.
If your baby has very dry skin, the vaporizer will also help, as it will keep the air more humid.
Clean the machine frequently, according to the manufacturer’s instructions, to prevent mold growth.
Related: Best 5 Humidifiers For Babies
Nail clippers and baby scissors:
They will help you cut your baby’s nails without hurting him.
Baby laundry detergent:
There are brands specially formulated for a baby’s delicate skin, although many hypoallergenic detergents work too.
Very soft hairbrush:
It will help you remove the cradle cap on your baby’s scalp.
To Calm & Entertain The Baby
To make your baby happy and calm you must have a few things that help you entertain and play with him, even if he is still too little.
Here are the most useful things to consider buying for your baby:
Pacifiers (3 to 5):
Some babies love and not others. Of course, they are not necessary, but for some dads and babies, they are indispensable.
Related: What All Parents Need To Know About Baby Pacifiers
Rocking chair:
These chairs, which look like a well-stretched hammock, gently bounce up and down when your baby moves.
They offer you a safe and practical place to leave it for a few minutes (with belts to hold the baby), and many babies love the movements they do.
Make sure to always place it on the floor, not on a table or counter, and don’t leave it asleep on the chair.
If he falls asleep, move him to his crib as soon as you can.
Toys:
Your baby does not need many curious toys, but it is good to have some rattles, musical toys, and soft toys.
Books:
Thick board books are great for teaching your baby to love reading. Washable fabric and vinyl are also practical.
Other Useful things:
Baby swing:
Babies who love movement love the rhythmic swing they produce.
Some are electric and some have batteries, and the movement can be side-to-side, or reciprocating.
A good swing will come in handy when you have to prepare dinner or rest for a while.
Play and activity mat:
It is a padded mat where you put your baby to bed, with toys hanging in an arch above it.
Even babies who are still not moving have fun hitting toys with their little hands.
The most sophisticated rugs include lights and sounds.
Activity Center:
It is like a stationary walker surrounded by many toys that the baby can manipulate.
The baby sits in the middle and can roll over to reach for toys.
Some love it and others don’t…
So, it is always a good idea to test it before you buy it, and these activity centers can be used from 4 to 12 months.
Toybox or basket:
The box will hide toys that are not in use!
Make sure that the lid cannot be accidentally closed on the baby’s fingers when he is old enough to put his toys in and out on his own.
Baskets are good for quickly picking up toys. You may be interested in having one in each room where your child plays.
Basics For Newborns By Seasons
When purchasing baby supplies, it is essential to take into consideration the weather conditions!
Considering this helps you get what is suitable for your little one, from choosing warmer clothes to buying comfortable sleeping supplies.
here is a list of items to invest in according to the season:
Summer Essentials
In addition to the detailed list previously mentioned, there are several items you will need for a summer baby.
Here are the most important things to add to the list:
- Baby vests: One-piece clothes or bodysuits with push-ups and a large neckline are ideal for summer.
- Sun Visor for car or stroller: Perfect for travel, just attach the sunblock to your baby’s stroller and on the windows of your car to protect your newborn from heatstroke.
- Summer hats: Choose a hat with a brim so that your child’s eyes are protected from the sun.
- Sunscreen: Consult your pediatrician for the best type of sunscreen to use on your baby’s skin.
Winter Essentials
During the winter, the temperatures drop, making it difficult for your little one to stay warm without extra clothes.
Take care of your child’s health and well-being with this checklist.
- Baby Quilt: The market contains a variety of baby quilts made of soft materials and it is available in different sizes, patterns, and colors.
- Sheets and light blankets: Invest in light quality blankets and sheets. These are ideal to keep your newborn baby during cold days.
- Full sleeve jackets: Cotton jackets are best because they go directly on your child’s skin. Another layer of clothing can be placed over the child, with an extra layer of wool.
- Thermal clothing: Your child needs thermal pants and jackets for extra warmth.
- Sweater or cardigan: The last layer on your newborn baby’s winter clothes can be a sweater. Your child’s skin should be monitored to see if the wool is causing a rash. If this happens, choose several layers of cotton with a woolen blanket.
- Woolen headwear and shoes: Most jackets come with socks and hats, so your little one will have a matching set. The socks should be placed over a pair of cotton socks.
Seasonal Essentials
For a baby born during monsoons, a few extra items will be required besides the baby supplies included in all seasons.
- Short sleeve baby vests: About 5-6 pairs of jackets with bodysuits are ideal during monsoons. And when it’s wet, a jacket is all your baby’s needs.
- Sleepwear: Loose-fitting bodysuits can be very useful during monsoons, especially if they’re made of cotton. They are easy to wash and dry.
- Cotton jackets: On cold monsoon days, you can put a cotton jacket on your newborn. You can also buy a larger size for your child to wear during the winter season as well.
- Insect repellant and heat blocker powder: You should consult your child’s doctor for the best insect repellent, heat-preventing cream, and powder. These items can be used on your baby to protect him from mosquitoes and rashes in the monsoons.
Takeaway
There is so much to do while preparing for the arrival of a new baby, and shopping for all of the essentials mentioned above is one of the most important things to do.
From this list, we have clarified all the newborn baby essentials that will be needed to keep your baby healthy, comfortable, and happy.
You can sort these items and add the ones you see as must-haves to your baby registry. Also, you can store essentials from the baby menu right before or when the newborn arrives!
Hope you find this list a helpful one in your preparation mission..
Best of luck with your motherhood journey, Mommy!
Related: Can you test for paternity while pregnant? Absolutely YES! Check out this prenatal paternity test for accurate results.