Essentials For Welcoming A Newborn: A Comprehensive Guide

Preparing for a newborn baby can be an exciting but daunting task. The good news is that newborns don't need much beyond love, milk, and warmth. However, there are some essentials to consider when getting your home ready for your baby's arrival. Here is a comprehensive list of things you will need to create a safe and comfortable space for your newborn:

Nursery Essentials:

- A crib, bassinet, or mini crib that meets safety guidelines.

- A firm, flat crib mattress that fits snugly in the crib.

- 2-4 fitted crib sheets.

- A comfortable rocking chair or glider for feeding and soothing your baby.

- A diaper-changing table or dresser with a changing pad at a suitable height.

- Clothes storage for your baby's clothing, such as a chest of drawers, closet, or wardrobe.

- A night light for middle-of-the-night feedings and comfort.

Diapering Essentials:

- Diapers—consider having a few small packs of different sizes until you know your baby's size.

- Unscented baby wipes.

- Diaper rash cream.

- A diaper pail or trash can with a lid to contain smells and keep things hygienic.

- A changing pad and covers to keep the changing area clean and comfortable.

- Washcloths and baby-friendly detergent for cleaning during diaper changes.

Bathing Essentials:

- A baby bath seat or tub for sponge baths until the umbilical cord falls off.

- Baby shampoo and body wash.

- 2-4 hooded baby towels.

- Optional: Baby lotion for dry skin.

Feeding Essentials:

- Bottles and nipples in different sizes and brands to find what works best for your baby.

- A dishwasher basket for cleaning small items.

- Formula if you're not exclusively breastfeeding.

- A breast pump if you plan to express breast milk.

- Milk storage bags for breast milk.

- Nursing pads and nipple cream if you're breastfeeding.

- A high chair for when your baby starts solid foods.

Health and Grooming Essentials:

- Baby nail clippers or a nail file to keep your baby's nails short and smooth.

- Petroleum jelly and sterile gauze for circumcision care.

- Pacifiers to soothe your baby.

- A baby toothbrush for when your baby's first teeth come in.

- Saline drops to clear a blocked nose.

Travel and Gear Essentials:

- An infant car seat or convertible car seat that meets safety standards.

- A stroller that accommodates a newborn and has a fully reclining seat.

- A baby carrier, wrap, or sling to keep your baby close and your hands free.

- A diaper bag to carry essentials when you're out and about.

- Sunshades for the car windows to protect your baby from direct sunlight.

While this list covers the essentials, there are also many nice-to-haves and optional items you may want to consider, such as toys, activity gyms, and extra clothing. Remember, you don't need to buy everything new; second-hand items or hand-me-downs can often be a great option!

Nursery furniture and gear

Crib or Bassinet

A crib is one of the most important items of nursery furniture. Your baby will need a safe place to sleep, as they will be snoozing at least 16 hours a day in the early days and weeks. Bassinets are small and portable and can be moved easily from room to room. Your baby will eventually need a crib, too. If you're using a crib, make sure it meets the safety standards and that the mattress fits snugly, with no space for the baby's head to get stuck.

Mattress and Bedding

You'll need a firm mattress that fits the crib perfectly, as this is the safest surface for sleep. You won't need much bedding—just a waterproof mattress cover and several fitted sheets that fit your crib mattress perfectly. Keeping your baby's crib bare helps reduce the risk of suffocation and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Nursery Glider or Rocking Chair

A comfy chair in the nursery is the perfect spot for breastfeeding, bedtime stories, and last-minute cuddles before sleep. The rocking motion may help calm you and your newborn.

Baby Monitor

A baby monitor is essential if your baby won't be sleeping in the same room as you. Video monitors have become quite affordable and are an effective way to keep an eye on your little one at night.

Nursery Decor

• Night-light: A night-light is a true newborn necessity. It lets you see where you’re going and what you’re doing without having to turn on any bright lights.
• Clothes storage: You’ll need a place to put your newborn’s clothing. In some cases, the drawers or shelves that come with the changing table may offer enough storage. Alternatively, you can use baskets, chests of drawers, or wardrobes.
• Blackout curtains: Hang blackout curtains to make the nursery dark when you put your baby to bed before the sun goes down.
• Humidifier: Keep plenty of moisture in the air in your baby’s room with a humidifier. This helps your baby breathe and rest easier.
• Toy basket: Your newborn baby might acquire some toys, and it's handy to have someplace to put them.
• Mobile: A colorful mobile (that's safely hung high, out of reach of your baby) will help entertain your little one.

Baby clothing

Basics

Babies grow quickly, so it's best to buy a small number of clothing items in varying sizes. For the first few weeks, you'll just need enough clothes to keep your baby warm and clean.

Layers

It's best to dress newborns in layers, with one more layer than an adult would wear.

Material

Look for clothes made from wool or cotton, rather than nylon. Several thin layers are best for keeping your baby warm.

Hats

A hat is essential for a newborn, especially if it will be cold when your baby is born. You may also want to buy a sun hat for hot weather or bright sunshine.

Cardigans and Jackets

Buy 1-3 cardigans or jackets. These are easier to take on and off than pullover sweaters and can be left open if the weather is mild.

Stretch Suits

Buy 4-8 stretch suits (all-in-ones) for both day and night.

Pants

Buy 4-8 pairs of pants.

Socks or Booties

Buy 4-7 pairs of socks or booties. Shoes are unnecessary until your baby starts walking.

Scratch Mittens

Buy 1-2 pairs of scratch mittens to prevent your baby from scratching their face.

Sweaters

Buy 1-3 sweaters or jackets.

Undershirts and One-Piece Outfits

Buy 4-8 undershirts and one-piece outfits. Some styles have snaps between the legs, which are useful for diaper changes.

T-shirts

Buy 4-8 T-shirts.

Leggings or Stretchy Pants

Buy 4-8 pairs of leggings or stretchy pants.

Special Occasion Outfits

You may want to buy a special outfit for holidays or special occasions. However, newborns grow quickly and may outgrow these items in a matter of days, so consider buying bigger sizes.

Baby feeding essentials

Feeding a newborn can be a daunting task, but having the right essentials can make the process a lot easier. Here are some baby feeding essentials to help you get started:

For Breastfeeding

• Nursing pillow: A nursing pillow like the My Brest Friend pillow is designed with better posture and added comfort in mind for both mother and baby.
• Nursing bras: If buying before the baby is born, get one cup size larger than your pregnant bra size.
• Breast pump: A hands-free pump like the Medela pump is a modern marvel that can make breastfeeding a lot easier.
• Milk storage bags/containers: If you plan to breastfeed, you'll need a safe way to store your breast milk. Look for freezer-safe storage bags or containers.
• Nursing pads: Choose between disposable or washable nursing pads to help with milk leakage.
• Nipple cream: Soothe and protect sore nipples with an organic nipple balm.

For Formula Feeding

• Bottles and nipples: Try several brands to find the one your baby prefers. Get both 4- and 8-ounce bottles.
• Bottle brush or dishwasher basket: For easy and thorough cleaning of bottles and nipples.
• Formula: Check the expiry date and note the lot number in case of recalls. Look for formulas that are pediatrician-approved to reduce baby gas, such as Enfamil GentleEase.
• Bottle warmer: A smart temperature-controlled bottle warmer with an automatic shut-off option, such as the Philips Avent bottle warmer, can be very useful.
• Thermal bottle tote: Save milk from spoiling when you're on the go with a thermal bag that fits up to six bottles.

For Solid Foods

• High chair: Look for chairs with adjustable height and recline positions to accommodate your growing baby.
• Baby food maker or blender: A baby food maker simplifies the process of preparing homemade baby food by steaming and blending fruits, vegetables, and meats. A blender can also be used to create purees and textured foods.
• Bibs: Silicone or waterproof, easy-to-clean bibs can help keep your baby and their clothes clean during mealtimes.
• Baby spoons and cutlery: Look for soft, silicone spoons that are gentle on the baby's gums. Baby-sized forks and spoons with soft, grip-friendly handles encourage self-feeding and fine motor skill development.
• Feeding plates and bowls: Suction plates like the EZPZ Mini Mat can help keep the plate in place and reduce messes.
• Food storage containers: BPA-free and reusable food storage containers are essential for storing and freezing homemade baby food in portions.
• Food catcher: Attached to high chairs, a food catcher collects dropped food, reducing waste and cleanup time.

Remember, every baby is unique, and you may need to adapt and try different products to find what works best for you and your little one.

Diapering essentials

• Diapers: You will need lots of diapers—newborns can go through around 70 diapers a week. It is impossible to know the right size in advance, so it is worth buying small packs of a few different sizes.
• Wipes: Use wipes to gently clean your newborn’s diaper area.
• Washcloths: These can be used with warm water to wipe your baby’s diaper area and also for cleaning your baby at bath time.
• Diaper rash cream: It is common for babies to get diaper rash, so ask your healthcare provider for advice on the best cream or ointment.
• Diaper pail: Diaper pails are optional but can help contain smells from dirty diapers.
• Changing table: A safe space to change your baby’s diaper. Changing tables usually have drawers or shelves so that you can reach diapers, wipes, and fresh clothes without taking your hands off your baby. Some also come with a strap to help secure your baby and prevent falls.
• Changing pad: This helps keep your baby comfortable and the changing table clean. Some can be wiped clean, while others have removable covers that can be machine washed.
• Portable changing pad: A portable changing pad ensures you always have a clean space to change your baby’s diapers when you are on the go.
• Disposable diaper pail for travel: Great for having somewhere to store dirty diapers when you are out and about.

Baby bathing essentials

Bathing a newborn can be a nerve-wracking experience for new parents, but with the right essentials, it can be a fun and enjoyable bonding activity. Here is a list of baby bathing essentials to make bath time safe and pleasant:

Baby Bathtub or Bath Seat

A baby bathtub or bath seat is essential for a newborn's first bath. You can use a sink insert, a baby bathtub, or a bath seat that fits inside your regular bathtub. This ensures a safe and comfortable space for your baby's bath.

Space Heater

Babies can get cold quickly when they are wet, so it is helpful to use a small space heater to warm up the room before bath time. This helps maintain a cosy and comfortable temperature for your baby.

Baby Washcloths

Baby washcloths are smaller and thinner than regular washcloths, making them ideal for gently cleaning your baby's delicate skin. They are perfect for wiping your baby's face and body during bath time.

Body Wash and Shampoo

While you may not need soap for the first few baths, using a mild body wash and shampoo specifically designed for babies is essential to keep your little one's skin and hair clean and healthy.

Toothbrush and Baby Oil

If your baby has cradle cap, a soft toothbrush and baby oil can help gently brush and soothe their scalp. This can be a soothing part of the bath time routine.

Small Blanket

Using a small blanket to cover your baby during bath time can provide warmth and a sense of security. Gradually uncovering them as you wash and then covering them back up can help keep them warm and comfortable.

Rinsing Cup

A rinsing cup is an essential tool for efficiently rinsing off soap from your baby's body. Look for one with a visor to prevent water from getting into your baby's eyes, making the rinsing process safer and more comfortable.

Bath Toys and Storage Caddy

Bath toys can make bath time fun and engaging for your baby. Look for toys that enhance developmental skills, such as pouring water or stacking cups. A storage caddy is also handy to keep the toys organised and within reach.

Hooded Baby Towel

Hooded towels are ideal for newborns as they stay on better than regular towels. Opt for 100% cotton to ensure softness and absorbency. The hood also helps keep your baby's head covered and warm after bath time.

Clean Diaper and Clothes

Always have a clean diaper and a fresh set of clothes ready after bath time. A cozy blanket can also be useful to wrap your baby in while you cuddle or feed them post-bath.

Bath Mat

A non-slip bath mat is crucial to prevent your baby from slipping in the tub. Look for mats made with vinyl or PVC, with strong suction cups and free from allergens and BPA. Drain holes in the mat are also a plus for easy water drainage.

Bath Thermometer

Maintaining the ideal bath water temperature of 100°F or 38°C is important as babies cannot regulate their body temperature. A bath thermometer helps ensure the water is just right, as each person's heat tolerance may vary.

Baby Grooming Set

Preparing your baby's post-bath essentials in advance can make the entire process smoother. Include a bottle of lotion or moisturiser, nail clippers, a nail file, a soft-bristled baby brush, and petroleum jelly to keep your baby well-groomed and their skin healthy.

Frequently asked questions