How to Put Together a Newborn’s Essentials

Before you go broke buying another toy or gadget that your baby will never end up using, take a step back and consider the absolute essentials that your newborn will need.

Many of your purchases can wait until the baby comes home and you settle into life with him.

Until then, think bare bones necessary to prepare your baby’s nursery and save money.

7 Several Ways to Put Together a Newborn’s Essentials

1. Get a car seat

You cannot even get your baby home from the hospital without one. You may choose not to purchase a stroller until you get your baby home. You will want to buy one comfortable for you and your partner. You may prefer to carry your little one around in a sling or carrier, but wait to buy one until you have your baby with you. You may get one that will be completely uncomfortable if you don’t try her out in it first.

2. Get about six sets of clothes to start out

The all-in-one outfits that have long sleeves and covered feet are nice for being at home or for cold outside weather. Onesies that snap at the bottom are another must-have for babies, as they make changing a diaper much easier. Get just a few outfits to go out of the house. You probably can forego the shoes, too, since your baby won’t be walking for several months, although socks will be necessary if your baby’s clothes do not have attached “footies.” If you are bringing your newborn home during the cold winter months, a warm newborn bunting is a good choice.

3. Purchase at least three sets of bedding

You will have one to wash, one to use and one for emergencies. A swaddling blanket can help keep your baby comfortable and warm during the first several weeks at home. Cloth diapers are good burp cloths, and a few flannel blankets are good for the crib or on the go.

4. Buy a bed for your baby

You may choose to use a co-sleeper, bassinet or crib. Consider how much room you have for this piece of furniture. You may choose a space-saving crib if you don’t have the extra space. If you opt for a bassinet, remember that your infant will be standing within several months of being born, and a crib will be a good buy at that time or sooner.

5. Purchase baby wash with as few additives as possible, since you don’t yet know how your baby’s skin will react to the ingredients

You also will need baby nail clippers, baby towels and washcloths, and a thermometer to keep track of any fevers. If you don’t want to bathe your baby directly in the sink, an infant bathtub is in order.

6. Buy a few packs of diapers in newborn size

You can’t be completely sure of the size of your baby until she arrives, and you won’t know how fast she will grow out of the newborn diapers for a few weeks. Buy enough diapers for at least a couple of weeks, counting on eight to 10 wet diapers per day. You also will need wipes without too many ingredients as well, and diaper cream to protect baby’s tender skin and prevent diaper rash. A diaper bag also will come in handy.

7. Purchase a breast pump if you’re planning to nurse, as well as comfortable nursing bras, breast pads and a nursing pillow

You’ll need a few bottles and some formula if you’re not breastfeeding. Don’t go overboard on the bottles and formula until your baby arrives, as babies tend to have particular preferences for certain kinds.

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