Bringing your baby home from the hospital is one of the most important milestones in your life as a parent. Before the birth of your little one, prepare yourself, your home, your car and your family. According to Healthy Children, the more you plan and prepare, the more confident you will feel when your baby comes home.
Car Seat
According to Kids Health, the most important thing you need for the trip home from the hospital is an infant car seat. Choose an infant car seat and have it properly installed before your baby is born so she will ride safely as you leave the hospital. Put the car seat in the back seat facing the rear of the car and strap it tightly enough so it does not move. Kids Health writes that proper installation is essential, so if you do not feel comfortable doing it yourself, visit a hospital, fire station or police station and have a trained person do it for you.
Clothes
Newborns often go through two or three outfits each day because of spitting up or diaper leaks. Baby Center reports that you should have several articles of clothing on hand so you always have a clean outfit when you need one. Have four to seven one-piece garments, four to seven pairs of pajamas, four to seven cotton shirts, four to seven pairs of socks, a coat or jacket if it is cold when your baby is born, and one to three hats. Buy clothes that are easy to get on and off since you will likely be changing the baby often, suggests Baby Center.
Diapering Supplies
Your newborn will go through up to 12 diapers each day, reports Baby Center, so you will need plenty on hand those first few days. Stock several packages of newborn diapers in your home before your baby leaves the hospital. You will also need diaper-rash cream and baby wipes.
Feeding Supplies
If you plan to feed your baby formula, get ready before your baby comes home from the hospital. You will need formula, bottles and nipples so you can feed your newborn as soon as she is hungry. If you plan to breast-feed your newborn but will not be present for all feeding times, buy or rent a high-quality breast pump and parts. A nursing pillow and bibs are recommended, no matter how you choose to feed your new baby.
