A baby may be small, but they require quite a bit of preparation, planning and baby items. Some items that are recommended for a baby really are not necessary until she is older, or at all. Other items are essential, and you will use them as soon as your baby is born. It is best to gather the things needed before the last couple of weeks of your pregnancy. This way, if the baby is born early, you will be well prepared.
Clothing and Diapering
You should have some newborn-sized outfits for your baby. He will outgrow them quickly, so don't buy too many. Many new parents prefer undershirts that do not snap, because a more open shirt makes umbilical cord care easier. Choose soft, easy-to-care-for fabrics. Buy several packages of newborn-sized disposable diapers or two-dozen cloth diapers. Newborn babies need to be changed 8 to 12 or more times per day, so be sure that you have enough. If you are using disposable wipes, choose the unscented variety. Buy only one or two packages, recommends the University of Maryland Medical Center, because some babies are sensitive to certain brands, and you may need to switch. Otherwise, buy two or three dozen baby washcloths to use as baby wipes. A diaper rash cream is helpful, and if you are having your son circumcised, have petroleum jelly on hand as well.
Feeding
If you plan on breastfeeding your baby, you will need nursing bras and breast pads. Do not buy too many nursing bras at first, because your breast size will likely change once your milk comes in. If you will be pumping milk for your baby, ask a lactation consultant to recommend a breast pump. Also, purchase milk storage bags if you will need to freeze your breast milk for later use.
If you will be bottle-feeding your baby, buy eight or ten 4-ounce baby bottles and newborn nipples. As your baby grows, she will need 8-ounce bottles as well. Buy several cans of baby formula. If she has a reaction to one type of formula, you may need to switch to another. But if she is thriving, keep her on the same brand. Ask your pediatrician for a recommendation as to which brand you should use. You will need a bottle brush to wash the nipples, as they may melt in the dishwasher.
Transport Items
The National Women's Health Information Center states that you need an infant car seat installed properly in your car before you can leave the hospital with your new baby. Before the baby is born, try to have a certified car seat technician check your installation. Call your local fire department or police station to find a technician to help you. Many parents like to use carriers or strollers for outings. Your infant car seat may come as part of a travel system, or you can purchase a stroller separately. Do not buy an umbrella stroller for a young infant, because these are intended for older babies who can sit up. If you are considering a sling, ask your pediatrician for a recommendation. Some are unsafe for babies under 4 months of age.
Miscellaneous Items
Toiletries, such as baby shampoo, washcloths and baby fingernail clippers, are also important items to have on hand. A rubber nasal aspirator will come in handy when your baby has a stuffy nose. You should have a backpack or diaper bag available to hold extra outfits, bottles and diapers when you leave your house. Your baby will need a safe place to sleep, such as a crib or a bassinet, and sheets that fit the mattress snugly. A rectal thermometer is necessary to take a small baby's temperature, while older babies can use ear thermometers. If your baby will not be sharing your bedroom, buy a baby monitor so that you can hear him when he wakes up at night.
