The mommies and daddies of Birth Days know that a newborn baby needs a lot of preparation and gear. Diapers, onsies, and bibs are the well-known staples, but did you know that a thermometer and nail clippers also come in handy? The best way to prepare yourself for a new baby is knowing what to have on-hand months before the baby arrives.
Download our Ultimate Newborn Baby Checklist (below) to keep track of everything you need, in one handy place.
Buy Necessities and Limit the Luxuries
Sure, there are tons of designer toys and fancy jogging strollers that may tempt you to splurge on a new baby, but the best-equipped nursery is one packed with essential items that you’ll actually put to use. If you are on a budget, sticking to the bare essentials will be easier on your pockets.
You’ll be surprised to find out how many things you really don’t use when it comes a newborn. Blankets and crib bumpers are nice to decorate with, but to prevent Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, it is advised not to allow your baby to sleep with them. Don’t buy too many blankets because you likely won’t be using them. Instead, stock up on sleep sacks and zipper pajamas that will keep your baby warm throughout the night without a blanket.
Anything from electronic swings to bouncers and extra bassinets, there will be equipment that your baby isn’t fond of and you won’t put to use. For these types of items keep a receipt just in case you don’t use them and need to return them in the future.
Be Mindful of Your Baby’s Health & Wellness
A healthy baby is a happy baby. Be sure to have the items you need that help keep your baby healthy. Things such as cotton swabs and rubbing alcohol is great for healing a newly-cut umbilical cord. Pain and fever reducer for infants is a must for an emergency kit along with a thermometer to check if or when your baby may be running a fever.
Did you know that a newborn baby can only breathe through her nose? A nasal aspirator will remove snotty blockage, reduce a stuffy nose, and help her breathe effectively.
What about those sharp nails that often scratch both you and your baby’s face? Baby nail clippers will keep both you and your baby scratch-free.
Know What’s Age-Appropriate
Most babies will not play with stuffed animals until they are at least four to six months old. Hold off on buying lovies until then. Knowing what will keep your baby entertained and happy will help you determine what to buy and what not to buy.
Don’t worry about buying a high chair or walker until about four months. A teether, however, can be helpful as early as two months.
Buy in Bulk
There are a few baby items that you will continue to buy month in and month out. Products such as diapers, wipes, and bibs, are some that are best to buy in bulk. Purchasing these items in large quantities will ensure you will have them when you need them and will also help you save money. Be careful not to go overboard when buying in bulk, however. It wouldn’t make sense to buy several boxes of the same sized diapers because your baby will grow out of them.
First determine how many diapers your baby spoils in a single day. When you multiply this by 30, you will get an average amount of diapers you need on a monthly basis. Buy these in advance while keeping an eye out on your baby’s growth in weight, which will determine what size your baby will need in the future.
Plan for the Future
When organizing your wish list for a baby shower, it’s best to think months and even a year ahead. Your baby will grow fast, so ask your friends and relatives to purchase clothes and items that can be used in the future.
It’s a great feeling to look into your baby’s closet and see that he has several outfits for months in advance. Keeping items like these handy is perfect so that you don’t have to run out to the store every time he grows an inch or two!
Happy women and men want happy babies! Make sure you use our ultimate baby checklist to keep track of your bare baby essentials.
