Its an exciting time planning everything you need for baby’s arrival, but it can also be quite daunting with so much choice available along with lots of well-meaning advice from family and friends.
When it comes to baby buys, there are ‘must haves’ and ‘nice to haves’. For the sake of your sanity we have tried to stick to the ‘must haves’ with a few non-essential items included which we think are too good to leave out!
Sleep Time
Don’t worry if baby’s nursery isn’t ready before they arrive. It can be up to 6 months before the nursery will be needed so plenty of time to decide on the all-important colour scheme.
There is so much choice out there when it comes to a bed for your baby. The most important thing is that they have a cot, crib or moses basket that allows you to keep them close but in their own space where they are safe. A firm mattress and secure fitted sheets will also be needed as well as a soft baby blanket or a correctly sized sleep bag to keep baby cosy. Having a room thermometer will also help keep the room where baby sleeps at the ideal temperature (16-20°C with light bedding is comfortable and safe – Source: Lullaby Trust).
Bath Time
Bath time is such a special time to bond with baby but can also be daunting trying to keep them supported whilst making sure they are happy and warm. Choosing a baby bath that has the flexibility to be used around your home, provides lots of support and grows with baby is important. Other essentials for a happy bath time are a bath thermometer which will take away the worry of making sure the water temperature is just right for baby and a cosy towel to keep baby warm.
Change Time
In time you will find your own brand preference for many of these products so don’t worry about having a large supply already stashed for baby’s arrival. A few packs of nappies, wipes or cotton wool, a barrier cream and some nappy bags is plenty. You will also need a waterproof changing mat which is easy to wipe clean. One that isn’t too cold against baby’s skin will help keep baby (and you) content during change time.
Feeding
Whether you decide to breast feed or bottle feed is entirely your choice. If you are planning to breast feed, a few comfortable feeding bras will be needed, and you may decide to express at some point so may need a breast pump. If you are planning on bottle feeding you will need bottles and teats as well as a steriliser and your chosen formula milk.
On the Go
The likelihood is you will need a car seat and one which is suitable from birth. It’s not necessary but having one compatible with your pram can make moving baby from the car to pram so much easier and without disturbing baby’s sleep. Having an Isofix Base isn’t a ‘must have’ item but if your car is compatible then having a base can make car trips so much easier! A pram is also a ‘must have’ item and I’d recommend doing you research on this one. Make sure it fits into the boot of your car and has plenty of storage before making a decision! (can you tell I didn’t ?)
Clothing
Finally, I’m sure you will receive plenty of generous gifts when baby arrives so just a few essential items is all that’s needed for the first few weeks. As long as you have a few Babygro’s, vests, bibs, mittens, a hat and coat or pram suit you will have all you need to get you started.
To make sure you don’t forget anything we have created a handy one page New Baby Essentials Checklist which you can download and print.
Download our New Baby Essentials Checklist
Happy shopping!!
Source:
*https://www.lullabytrust.org.uk/safer-sleep-advice/baby-room-temperature/
