First time parents are often clueless as to what is actually useful in the land of baby products. In "What to Expect the First Year," Heidi Murkoff assures that friends and family "would rather buy you something you'll use than something you'll have to cart back to the store postpartum," so here are the key items to add to a baby registry, guaranteeing that if the buyers stick to the list, the baby shower will be a success for them and the new parents.
Nursery
The most important nursery items are the crib, crib mattress, two waterproof mattress pads, three to four crib sheet sets and a dresser. Many moms choose to combine space and cost by using the top of the dresser as a changing table; register for a changing pad and at least two covers. Four to six receiving blankets and two to four heavier blankets should be adequate. Two optional items that are not necessary but greatly used are a cool-mist humidifier (great for when baby gets sick) and a baby monitor.
Feeding Baby
Newborns eat every two to three hours; whether breast or bottle feeding there are a few necessary items to list on the registry. One to two dozen burp cloths are needed; the plain white cotton cloths are much more practical (and absorbant) than the frilly versions. Nursing moms can register for one to two boxes of breast pads (don't test it--just trust that breasts will leak), nipple cream and a breast-pump; check with the store clerk to pick the pump that best suites your needs. For formula-fed babies, register for six to 12 bottles, replacement nipples and formula.
Clothing and Diapering Baby
Diapers in all sizes, wipes and diaper cream all top the list of necessities. The most important clothes for a newborn will be six to 12 onesies, six to 12 sleepers and two to four sleep sacks. Remember, many people will bring clothing gifts to the hospital and home, so stick to the basics in this category.
Gear
There are many types of car seats to choose from so it helps to do research online, ask other parents and talk to store clerks to find the best fit for your lifestyle. Register for a stroller too; many companies offer packages with the car seat and matching stroller. Another important item, listed on the Babies "R" Us Registry Buying Guide, is a play yard (commonly referred to as a Pack n Play) that "provides your child with a cozy place to play or nap, indoors, outdoors and on-the-go."
Extras
Aside from the necessities already listed, here are a few other items to consider. Gliders, the modern version of the rocking chair, are extremely popular and comfy. Many parents enjoy the ease of a bassinet or co-sleeping bed; they help keep baby close for middle-of-the-night feedings. The Boppy pillow, another feeding aide, fits nicely around mom's body to cradle the baby while eating from the breast or bottle. A swing or bouncy seat offers a spot to hold baby while mom is busy, and other extras include everything from toys to diaper bags. Just remember the more fluff added to the registry gives gift-givers greater opportunity to buy unnecessary items.
References
- "What to Expect the First Year"; Heidi Murkoff; Workman Publishing; 1996
- Babies "R" Us: Registry Buying Guide
- "The Girlfriend's Guide to Pregnancy"; Vicki Iovine; Pocket Books; 1995
