Baby Gear 101: Buy, Borrow & Request
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Bringing home a new baby is likely to be one of the most exciting things you'll ever do. Before having your baby, you should have everything ready at home for his arrival. Newborn babies don't need very many things, since they spend much of their time sleeping. You will, however, need a few basic supplies, such as clothing, bedding and food.
You will need a place for your baby to sleep, such as a crib, cradle or bassinet. If you choose a crib, buy one that has slats no greater than 2 3/8 inches apart. Wider slats are a hazard, since the baby can get small hands and feet stuck between them. A mattress and sheets are necessary if you are using a crib. You can also use bumper pads, which reduce the risk of the baby getting caught in the crib slats. If you want to give your baby a blanket, ensure that it is lightweight and breathable. Newborns are at risk from suffocation if they are covered with a thick, heavy blanket.
The type of clothing to have on hand for your baby depends on the season. If it is cold outside, buy a coat, hat, pants and several warm shirts. In warmer weather, you do not need as much protective clothing, although a hat is useful for keeping the sun off your baby's head. Buy a few T-shirts or onesies, which are shirts that snap on the bottom for easy removal, making diaper changing much easier. Buy a few pairs of socks, as well as pajamas. If desired, you can get special laundry detergent for the baby's clothing that contains no fragrances or dyes.
You won't be allowed to leave the hospital with your baby without a car seat. Do not buy a used or old one because car seat standards change frequently, and a used one may have been damaged. Buy a stroller or infant sling for times when you take your baby out. Whichever transportation method you choose, ensure that it is made for newborns and young babies.
For your baby's first week of life, you will generally need about 70 disposable or cloth diapers. Pick up a large pack of wipes and diaper rash cream. You will also need petroleum jelly for a baby boy's circumcision. A diaper pail is helpful, but not necessary. Get a small baby bathtub, ideally one that includes a newborn hammock, which lets your baby rest safely on his back while you bathe him. Purchase a small towel and some washcloths, as well as baby soap and shampoo. You will also need baby nail clippers, as a babies' nails grow very quickly.
If you choose to breastfeed your baby, you may want to buy a few nursing bras and nursing pads, which help protect your clothing. If you will be formula feeding, buy your desired formula, as well as bottles. You should also purchase some bibs, since some babies spit up frequently and all babies dribble.
New babies do not need many toys, although within a few months they will become more interested in handling things. For a newborn, buy a mobile that hangs over the crib. Babies enjoy watching colored shapes and objects move overhead. A small stuffed animal may also be appreciated, but do not leave it in the crib with your baby while she sleeps; it can be a suffocation hazard.
