Although the number of baby products sold in so many stores and shops everywhere can be overwhelming, the really essential clothing and accessories for newborns are not as numerous as it may seem. Considering the climate and your budget, plan ahead and make a list of the suggestions we have provided.
The first and most important items that you need to have on hand when your baby arrives are receiving blankets. If you have nothing else, you must have these. Immediately after a baby is received from the mother, he or she is placed and wrapped in a blanket. You can never have too many receiving blankets. In addition, a few other heavier blankets are recommended.
Decide ahead of time what type of diapers you will be using for your baby. Disposable diapers are very convenient and more sanitary. However, cloth diapers may be more comfortable and feel more natural for the newborn. At the hospital when you give birth, and if you have your baby with you in your room, you decide what you want your baby to wear.
Since newborns have been warm in their mothers' wombs, it is important to keep their bodies as warm and as comfortable as possible. The head, which receives most of the heat or cold, needs to be protected. Therefore, beanie hats are ideal to use on babies during hospital stays, as well as at home if the temperature is kept cool. Undershirts are important not only for warmth, but also for comfort. They can be worn under anything else you dress your baby in.
One-piece sleepers are definite must-haves. Along with the beanie hat, onesies protect your baby from head to toes even when the infant squirms out of the blanket. Baby socks and booties are always wise choices. For extra protection, mittens are ideal. They help protect your little one from scratching himself or herself, especially on the face. At birth, and for weeks after, babies have no control of hand and other body movements.
While protecting the newborn's body is pertinent, feeding the baby is also an immediate necessity and responsibility of parents. If breastfeeding or nursing your baby is not your choice, be sure to select ahead of time the type of bottles you want for your baby. There are many brands and shapes to choose from. For pastime and for baby's security and satisfaction, include a pacifier in your list of necessities. Your doctor will advise you on the type of baby formula to feed your new baby.
When you get ready to leave the hospital with your new bundle of joy, you must be prepared with an infant car seat. Most infant car seats are equipped with the removable baby carrier which is very convenient for loading and unloading, especially at nap or sleeping times.
During your stay at the hospital, your baby will most likely be bathed by the nursing staff, but once you introduce your newborn to his or her new home, you will find that burp cloths, wet wipes, bibs, bottle warmers, changing table pads and sheets, crib or bassinet covers, wash cloths and towels, air purifiers (these are ideal for soothing noise), and monitors are immediately utilized.
Shortly after, you will be reaching for cotton swabs, cotton balls, petroleum jelly, baby powder and lotion, and baby wash. Grooming supplies, such as shampoo, hair brushes and combs, nail clippers or scissors, and nose and ear syringes are also essential for the newborn. Remember the first aid items, including small band-aids, hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, rubber gloves, and any other medications recommended by the pediatrician.
If you collect these products and have them available before your baby arrives, you will be more relaxed and have more time to enjoy your new family member. Be prepared and give your newborn a warm and loving welcome to the world.
