What is it do I really need to buy for my new baby? While writing 
my latest book, found at www.CareForMyBaby.com, I found that this 
is a question a lot of new moms must ask themselves. Having a new 
baby is a huge expense, and it is hard to stay on budget when you 
see all of the cute outfits in the stores. While all of the tiny 
things are really tempting to buy, please keep in mind that 
babies grow really fast. One of the biggest mistakes that new 
parents make is over shopping for clothes. Remember, you will 
probably keep baby in a lot during those first few months so cute 
outfits with matching hats and shoes may not get any use. Plus if 
you are going to have a baby shower you will receive a lot of 
cute outfits fit for your little bundle of joy. Below is a list 
of things that I put together as a guide for you to use while 
doing your shopping. Remember to do your shopping after your baby 
shower this way you will only buy what you need. 


Health and Safety 

 * digital thermometer 
 * nasal aspirator 
 * infant acetaminophen drops 
 * baby monitor 
 * night lightBaby Care Products 
 * baby shampoo/baby wash 
 * diaper cream 
 * baby nail clippers or safety scissors 
 * baby oil/lotion 
 * baby brush and comb 
 * a couple of pacifiers (even if you don't plan to use!) 


Layette and Diapering 

 * newborn diapers/cloth diapers/wraps or set up diaper service 
 * baby wipes and/or extra baby washcloths 
 * diaper pail 
 * burp cloths or extra cloth diapers 
 * gowns/kimonos or newborn sleepers (4-6) 
 * receiving blankets (4-6) 
 * swaddling blankets (2-3) 
 * crib blanket or quilt 
 * newborn socks or booties (4-6 pair) 
 * newborn cap (1-2) 
 * hooded bath towels and wash cloth 
 * 4-6 T-shirts or all-in-ones 
 * 1-2 sweaters or bunting (depending upon season) 


Baby Equipment 

 * baby carrier (sling, wrap or pack carrier) 
 * infant seat (have to bring it to the hospital!) 
 * stroller or carriage 
 * bouncer seat or swing 
 * diaper bag 


Furniture and Accessories 

 * co-sleeper/bassinet/cradle or crib 
 * mattress, waterproof pads, at least two sheets and other 
   bedding 
 * changing table or other safe changing area 
 * mobile for the crib and/or changing area 
 * changing pad and 2 covers


Nursing Necessities  

 * nursing pillow 
 * washable or disposable nursing pads 
 * rental, electric or manual breast pump and storage bottles 
   or bags if you plan to pump milk 
 * feeding bottles (2-4 4 oz to start), nipples, and bottle 
   brush if you plan to use bottles 


Below you will find a short list of things new moms will need to 
have on hand. 

New Mother Care 

 * sitzbath herbs 
 * big box of extra-long maxi pads for locchia 
 * nursing nightgown or comfy cotton pajamas 
 * small tube of modified lanolin or other product to soothe 
   sore nipples 
 * nursing bras (1-2 comfy nursing bras plus a sleep bra to 
   take to the hospital -- you can get more when your milk 
   comes in, in case your size changes) 


Other Good Ideas 

 * pick out birth announcements (address envelopes before baby 
   comes, if possible) 
 * make a Belly Cast to remember this amazing time! 

Also a good thing to know is that some of these accessories and 
gadgets are fun to have. Some of them even help make your life 
easier. However these are not must haves, all your baby really 
needs is your love and affection and your baby will grow and 
flourish. Remember you must have a car seat for baby, because the 
hospital will not let you leave without it! Plus you want to 
protect your little miracle in any way possible. Relax and enjoy 
this time with your precious baby because this time will never 
return. 

If possible line up friends and family who will bring meals or 
come help you out at home after the baby is born (and a good 
friend to coordinate) and/or hire a doula to help. This way you 
can spend even more time just worrying about the baby, while 
someone else worries about YOU!
 

Melida Cohen is the author of "Baby's First Year: Everything You 
Should Know but probably don't".  She is a wife and mother to 
3 children ages 1, 7, and 8.  Her goal is to empower new mothers 
and mothers to be.  Visit http://www.CareForMyBaby.com to get 
a free copy of her baby care newsletter or visit her blog at 
http://www.CareForMyBabyBlog.blogspot.com to chat with her and
other new moms.