I started to search out a basic list of the MUST HAVES for bringing a baby into your home and the lists seems a tad ridiculous. There are no TOP 10's out there. I would like to think that my grandparents and even my parents had less than this and we turned out fine, so I am trying to keep it real.....yet be cautious and a slight nervous wreck and think I need everything. Besides needing the basics stocked up for the baby to be safe, comfortable and feel at home, I need to know things are ready for me to be a mom as well.
for my own sanity - I have pinked the stuff I have, so I know what to still buy.
Here is a compilation of many web generated lists (this only includes cloth diapering and breastfeeding items):
BABY:
Baby Couture:
- one-piece outfits - recommendations say 6 (5)
- 6-8 cotton side-snap undershirts or "onesies"
- Snowsuit for winter babies
- 4 or more booties or baby socks
- 6 or more receiving blankets
- Baby mittens (to prevent scratching if baby is prone to this) or for winter babies
- 2 or more hats appropriate for season
Nursery Needs:
- Crib/bassinette - I have both, due to recommendations, but I think 1 is plenty to start.
- 4 or more fitted crib sheets (I have 1 so far)
- Crib mobile - I doubt this is a NEEDED item, but I like the music mine plays.
- Rocking Chair
- Changing table with necessities:
- Diapers
If Cloth-diapering:- enough for 2 or 3 days depending on your washing schedule. I am going to try 24 all in one that grow as the baby grows diapers and see if that works. (24)
- gentle laundry detergent - although you may have this to have pre-washed clothes I still need some for the cloth diapers.
- enough for 2 or 3 days depending on your washing schedule. I am going to try 24 all in one that grow as the baby grows diapers and see if that works. (24)
- Baby wipes or lots of baby washcloths (you can use a spray bottle to wet them)
- Diaper Pail (and wet bags x2)
- Diaper Rash ointment - be prepared for the worst.
- Diapers
Breastfeeding Basics:
- Disposable or washable nursing pads
- Nursing bras
- Nursing pillow
Bath Time Basics:
- Baby Tub
- Gentle Baby wash
- Baby Shampoo (or just use the Baby Bath lotion in the beginning)
- Baby washcloths (these are better than adult cloths…thinner and more flexible)
- Baby towels (hooded seem to be all the rage) I am aiming for 4 or 5 due to laundry demands. (2)
- Baby-safe scissors or clippers
Medicine Chest Staples:
- Rubbing alcohol, Q-tips (good for cord care)
- Infant Tylenol
- Baby thermometer
- There could be a thousand more things that parents actually need, but I put very little on here as I really don't know what it would be used for.
On-The-Road Supplies:
- Car Seat
- Diaper Bag
- Stroller
- Infant chest carrier - not needed right away, but I kept it so i can check it off.
- a weeks worth of meals made and in the freezer to get through some sleepless days
- labor bag packed - more lists online :)
- nursing bras
- pads
This is the list of things I have seen on many lists that fall under redic for me. I can see why these things will eventually be important, but seriously, are they NEEDED for the first few weeks or months and are they really something you should have a new parent worry about?
To all new moms.....get this when you need it, or anticipate needing it....do not fret over these items prior to the birth of your baby.
- high chair - - your baby cannot sit up for months, no worries about this item.
- electrical plug covers - your baby cannot crawl or get around on their own for many months, therefore no where near electrical sockets.
- baby gates - same as above
- safety locks and latches - same as above
- toys - this can probably be kept to a minimum in the beginning.
- walker- wait until your baby can sit up for these types of babysitters.
I will try to 1> remember to make a better list after the baby is born and I actually see first hand what was good, bad and unnecessary for bringing a baby home and 2> make some lists of diaper bag needs and hospital bag needs.
