Being pregnant with your first child is a stressful enough time without having to worry about if you have all the items you need for when you bring that little one home. The type of products you buy are going to vary from the parent down the street, but there are still those things that everyone needs. This list focuses on those “must have” items for every new parent. Add to it if you’d like!
1. Crib & accessories
Cribs are an obvious item, but sometimes forgotten are the accessories that go inside it. You can easily pick up all bedding when you purchase your crib. Used items can be purchased on eBay, but do be very careful buying used items here. Bedding doesn’t have to be expensive, and sometimes family members have used items to pass down that you can trust.
2. Clothes
Plan to have several sleepers, onsies, and regular outfits. Don’t forget socks! New baby clothes can be purchased at Unique Baby Boutique, and used clothes at eBay. Also be sure to check consignment shops near you and of course family members as well.
3. Diapers
Be sure to weigh your options between cloth diapers and disposables. Cloth diapers can be found at several different online stores, and there is a lot of information out there that can get you started. It’s not as costly as you may think, and actually can save you quite a bit of money.
4. Baby wipes
Again weigh the options between disposable and reusable (yes there is such a thing with a special solution to use on the cloth!). Reusable wipes can be purchased at many environmentally friendly stores online if you look around. We used this kind for my daughter and it wasn’t that big of a deal as I thought it would be. Although we did “cheat” a bit by buying regular store wipes for the messy diapers while using the cloth wipes for regular ones.
5. Baby powder
Non-talc is the best for your baby’s sensitive skin. Look for non-talc baby powder at any natural baby store.
6. Diaper bag
Generally given to you at the hospital, but you may wish to have a larger one and more personalized. I always found the hospital diaper bags a bit annoying, and they didn’t last as long as the one we bought (it survived both kids without any problems, and we still use it for baby doll clothes).
7. Bottles
Even if breastfeeding, you will still want to pick up bottles and a breast pump. You never know when you’ll be forced to be away from your baby. Breast pumps can be found at any store that sells baby products online or offline.
8. Baby Bath Tubs
Can be purchased used at eBay, or new at local department stores. This is something new moms may not even remember at all!
Check labels and be sure to buy the most gentle soap possible to avoid skin problems. Natural soaps can be purchased at natural baby stores online. Just recently there were baby bath products pulled from the shelves. Don’t take the risk, buy natural instead.
10. Car seat
Used Car seats can be found on eBay, or new at your local department store. Make sure you buy an infant car seat first, not one designed for a toddler. Also be sure the car seat meets current regulations if you are buying it used.
The items listed above are just basic items which are a necessity. You may also want to think about purchasing the following:
– Stroller
– Swing
– Walker
– Play Pen
– Pacifiers
– Toys
– Sun screen in summer months
There’s no doubt you’ll find other things you’ll want for your new baby, but the above list is of items you absolutely need. Shop natural when possible. Not only is it better for the environment, but it’s better for baby too!
