
If you are reading this, chances are that you have just welcomed your little bundle of joy into your life — or are about to! Congratulations, now the real adventure begins.
Parenthood is possibly the biggest and most exciting adventure of a person’s life, and if you want to be well equipped for it you’re going to need some newborn essentials. But with so many products, options, and ideas out there, how do you know what is a must-have, and what isn’t?
No worries, that’s what we’re here for. We have compiled a list of the ten most crucial baby items that will make your new life as a parent a lot easier and more pleasant. Read on, and get ready to shop!
1. Diapers, Diapers, and More Diapers
Those who have been there before you have been warning you for a long time now. Babies go through a lot of diapers, particularly during those first few weeks and months. So, to be as prepared as possible, make sure you stock up on plenty of diapers.
2. A Varied Choice of Clothing
Babies go through a lot of diapers, yes, but they also go through a lot of clothes. Sooner than you think, you might have to deal with infamous “seeping poops” (you’ve guessed it … it’s when babies poop through their clothes).
Treat this as an excuse to get a nice choice of bits and bobs for your baby. From cute onesies to playsuits and baby headbands to mini boots, your baby’s wardrobe will soon look much better than yours!
3. Burp Cloths (a Lot of Them)
During those initial weeks and months, it’s super-common for babies to dribble and regurgitate milk. Get ready to catch any spillages by stocking up on burp cloths. Make sure they are 100% cotton, hypoallergenic, and suitable for baby use.
4. A Good-Quality Stroller
Next, you’ll need a stroller to get your baby out and about, especially now that the good weather is finally upon us. There is a huge variety of baby strollers out there, suitable for any budget, style, and requirement. It’s a good idea to write down your preferences and then take a look at those items that tick your boxes.
5. Sensory Toys and Books
Playtime is an essential part of babies’ development, right from the very first few days of their lives. Sensory toys and tactile books are a great way to introduce your little one to the outside world through play.
6. A Good-Sized Changing Bag
You will soon realize that leaving the house with a baby is a bit of a mission, to say the least. Make things a bit more manageable by buying a nice and comfy changing bag. Many of these come with lots of pockets and little handy compartments, that you can fill up with both baby’s stuff and yours.
7. A Video-Enabled Baby Monitor
Once your little bundle transitions to its own bedroom (which, in general, happens around the six-month mark), you might want to keep an eye (and an ear) on them. How? With a baby monitor.
There are many different options available on the market, for all budgets and needs. Whichever specific model you end up buying, make sure it has both an audio and a video function. Having the possibility to watch what your baby is doing while in their cot is just as important as being able to hear if they cry and need you.
8. A Baby Carrier, Sling, or Wrap
Are you wondering how you’ll be able to cook dinner, brush your teeth, make a phone call, and just generally go about your day if you’re constantly having to hold your baby? Well, that’s exactly why you should add a baby carrier to your must-haves.
Baby carriers come in so many shapes and sizes: they can be very structured, with ergonomic seats and padded shoulder straps, or they can be as simple as a cotton wrap. Whichever you choose, make sure you follow the safety guidelines, that you can easily find online.
9. A Safe Car Seat
While we’re talking about safety, you’re also going to need a car seat.
This should be compliant with the latest safety guidelines, and appropriate for the size and age of your baby. Remember that your baby should be placed in a rear-facing position for at least the first nine months of their life, although an increasing number of parents choose to keep them in this position for longer.
10. Feeding Supplies and Accessories
Regardless of whether you are breastfeeding, bottle feeding, pumping, or a mix of everything, one thing is for sure: you are going to need some feeding supplies. Exclusively breastfeeding moms should be good to go with a nice and comfy nursing pillow, some reusable breast pads, and a lanolin cream to ease any nipple soreness.
For those who express milk, a good, hospital-grade breast pump is essential, together with a selection of bottles and teats. Formula-feeding mamas, too, will need to buy bottles and teats, as well as some sterilizing equipment and, of course, a good stock of infant formula milk.
Ready to Pick All Your Newborn Essentials?
Babies come into our lives and completely revolutionize them, which can be exciting and daunting at the same time! To feel like you’re more in control and better prepared for these amazing changes, you should make sure that you get all the newborn essentials on our list.
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