First-time moms are always overwhelmed when it comes to baby clothes, gears, essentials, and accessories. If that’s you, you probably have a list of items you want to buy for your munchkin.
Wait, before you start the baby shopping spree, go through this checklist. Baby clothes are the cutest thing, and you can easily blow your entire budget getting those cute little socks, bibs, and bodysuits. Your baby doesn’t need everything right away. Chances are some items on your list might not be used by your baby altogether.
To shop smart, here is a list of practical essentials to buy for your baby:
Basic ClothesAlways shop for the basics first such as onesies, rompers, undershirts, one-piece pjs, half shirts, and gowns. You will also need sleep sacks, socks or booties, bibs, and blanket sleepers. Make sure you have enough supply of these before the baby arrives.
Nursery BasicsThese are some essentials mostly found in baby nurseries:
- Baby monitor
- Crib and crib mattress
- Diaper changing table
- Dresser
- Rocking chair
- Laundry bag
- Toy bin
Ideally, buy a few necessary items and upgrade as your baby grows. There is no need to buy everything upfront.
Bathing EssentialsTo make your baby smell amazing, you will need some bathing and baby care essentials. Here is what you need:
- Baby bathtub
- Baby shampoo
- Body wash
- Baby lotion
- Nail clippers
- Washcloths
- Regular towels
- Hooded baby towels
Breastfeeding Gear
The breastfeeding gear is for the mother, mostly. The necessities include a couple of nursing bras, nursing pads, a nursing pillow, and cotton bibs for the baby, and burp cloths.
If you are planning on using a breast pump, go for a wearable breast pump. Electric pumps are recommended for the ladies who would continue work after their maternity leaves. Otherwise, a hand pump works fine as well.
Breast milk storage bags are mandatory if you will be pumping. You might as well need a nipple cream for the first few weeks. And don’t forget to buy feeding bottles if someone else would be feeding the baby the pumped breast milk.
DiaperingMost parents are tempted to buy diapers in bulk. That’s the most common mistake to avoid. The right approach is to buy sample packs of three different brands and try each on your baby. Once you are certain about the brand your baby is most comfortable with, then you can go on buying newborn diapers in bulk.
Apart from buying diapers, buy some reusable cotton nappies too. These nappies must be changed as soon as they are soiled so you might need to tock them up. These days, reusable nappies come with biodegradable lining which can be removed and flushed. The nappy can be washed and reused.
Other diapering essentials you will need for your little one include:
- Rash cream
- Wet wipes
- Changing sheet/mat
Medicine Cabinet
You must also prepare a medicine cabinet for the baby and yourself. Keep these essentials in the cabinet:
- Baby thermometer
- Cotton balls
- Petroleum jelly
- Nasal aspirator
- Antibiotic cream
- Tylenol
- Medicine dropper
- Saline nasal drops
- Baby gas drops
Traveling Gear
Whenever you leave the house with the baby, you will need a set of safety gear to travel safely. According to state law, car seats are mandatory for kids up to 8 years. It is a good idea to spend some time and learn about state law.
These are the travel gear you need:
- Baby bunting bag
- Car seat
- Diaper bag
- Baby carrier
- Stroller
If you have already bought these items, you are well prepared for your new baby. On the other hand, if you haven’t bought these items yet, don’t rush.
First Baby ToysFirst things first, newborn babies don’t need toys. These are just nice to haves. The right time to buy toys is when the baby is 3 to 6 months old and capable of grasping things. These are some toys to invest in:
- Rattles
- Playmat
- Toys that can be attached to the stroller
- Squeaky toy
- Crib mirror
- A boy basket
Solid Feeding
The baby is ready for solid food between 4 to 6 months of age. This is the right time to get feeding supplies. Wondering what you need? Check this list:
HighchairGet a freestanding high chair that hooks to the counter or table. Get a model with a removable seat cover that you can clean later.
BowlsBuy 2 to 3 baby bowls with suction cups on the bottom which can stick to the tray of the highchair. Make sure you get the unbreakable ones.
Baby spoonsRubber tipped spoons are easier for the gums of the baby. Get the small ones that fit into the little mouth of the baby.
Sippy cupsSippy cups come with a lid and a spout. Not only are these easy to drink from, but they also don’t spill if the baby knocks them over. Get the cups with handles so that your baby can hold them easily.
Waterproof bibsThese are quick-drying bibs with pockets at the bottom for catching failing food.
Safety GearThis is for when your baby starts crawling. It’s the time when parents need to be aware of the dangers in the house and childproof them. For instance:
- Install safety gates on the stairs both at the top and bottom. You can also use them for blocking the kitchen or bathroom.
- Install covers on all exposed outlets since they are the most irresistible attraction to babies.
- Get latches for cupboards and drawers. They come in several types. Buy the one that is the most difficult for your little one to operate.
- Toilet seat locks are also mandatory to keep the baby from throwing his toys in the toilet or playing with toilet water itself.
Bottom Line
That’s everything essential you need for your baby. When making a list, always ask yourself, will the baby need it right now? If the answer is no, buy it later. Don’t be tempted by a sale on baby clothes and essentials or you will exceed your budget.
