Feeding Essential Items
If you are breastfeeding:
Nursing bras – you probably need a bra that is one cup size larger Breast pads (disposable) – helps with potentially embarrassing spills as well Breast pump Lotion for sore nipples Milk storage containers Nursing pillow – helps you support the baby’s weight while feeding Bottle warmer – human milk proteins are delicate, so you want to be careful not to microwave, which may lead to overheating
If you are formula feeding:
Bibs and burp cloths Four-ounce and eight-ounce bottles with nipples (with brushes) – babies will typically go through ten four-ounce bottles per day Baby formula – check the expiration date and lot number (in case of any recalls) Thermal bottle carrier – for keeping milk warm when going out
Bedtime
Pajamas – when dressing your baby, get pajamas that are the easiest to put on or remove, without any snaps or decorative materials. Ribbons and ties may look nice, but they are choking hazards and should be avoided Socks and booties – keep your baby warm, especially in the winter Crib and crib mattress Fitted cribsheets Light blankets that fit in the crib – be careful about layering too many blankets on your baby. Your baby will not be able to kick off blankets if they get too warm! Sleep sack Air Purifier – it is important to keep the air in your baby’s living environment clean. Get the best air purifiers with high CADR (clean air delivery rate) ratings for common air contaminants such as dust, smoke and pollen Light comforter – remember to keep this away from the baby’s head Waterproof mattress covers
Toiletries
Plastic infant tub – your baby will learn to love getting in here for the shower Talcum powder – great in helping to absorb moisture Baby shampoo Baby lotion – keeps your baby’s skin supple Aqueous cream – often aqueous cream is enough to get your baby clean; you don’t have to bathe them everyday Barrier cream – protects your baby from rashes Baby oil Baby bath towels
Blankets
Large cotton blankets Receiving blankets – can also be used as burp cloths
Diapering
Diaper bag Diaper pail Changing pad Barrier cream / Baby ointment – help prevent rashes Disposable wipes – for cleaning your baby’s bottom Water-proofs Reusable diapers – these can be great spit clothes even if you do not use them for diapers
Other Nice-to-Have Items
Baby Seat for the Car – very important if you are taking your baby out anywhere Baby Shoes – some find even the best baby shoes unnecessary, but this is more a matter of personal taste. For the most part your baby should not be walking outdoors anyway. Baby monitor – these work wonders and allow you to monitor your baby even when you are doing other things. The best baby monitors save you time and energy while helping you keep an eye on your baby Baby stroller – ideally one that can recline so your baby can sleep easily. Also look for one that can fold easily so storage is not an issue. Nail clippers – some parents simply bite, but I wouldn’t advise that Baby thermometer Medicine spoon Rocking chair – for feeding and swaddling Baby carrier Playpen Pacifiers – at least two in case one gets lost or dirty Petroleum jelly and sterile gauze – for care post-circumcision Baby Sense – great book by an author from South Africa, another baby essential for understanding your baby better Raising your first baby does not have to be daunting. There are many resources available online to help, such as this baby items list.
