Babies are expensive new additions to a family's life. One of the costliest parts of having a child comes before the baby is even born--infants require special attention and equipment that must be purchased ahead of time. While you may be resourceful in finding these items second-hand from other families, much of the supplies needed can be very costly and run up expenses quick. A baby will numerous supplies, large and small, in the first weeks and months of his life, but the basics are of utmost importance.
Carseat
If you plan on driving home with your newborn baby after your hospital stay, a car seat is a must--many hospitals will not let you take a child home if you don't have one of these to secure the baby in a vehicle. Car seats provide the extra protection needed for defenseless newborns. Many are also comfortable enough that your child can fall asleep with ease when strapped into her special seat.
Crib
Some parents may feel the temptation to let a newborn child sleep in their bed, but this is a dangerous move--newborns can be easily suffocated in an adult bed, particularly if a parent rolls over and does not realize they are putting weight on their child. A crib provides a safe place for an infant to sleep. Protective walls surrounding the crib keep a baby from accidentally rolling out of the bed, and many cribs can be equipped with mobiles or other sleep aids to comfort your child at night.
Diapers
As soon as you start feeding your child, you will need to have an ample supply of diapers on hand. Very young babies will need infant-sized diapers, but these can be grown out of quickly. It is wise to stock up on diapers and cut down on the number of trips made to the store. You should also have the next size diaper on hand in case your child grows out of their current diaper size.
Clothing
As with diapers, many types of infant clothing is available based on size. Onesies are small shirts that cover the torso and diaper of a newborn--while these can be grown out of in just a few weeks, they are necessary for a newborn child. You should also have a few different stretch suits with feet included--these provide added warmth to a newborn baby. You will also need one or two hats, some sweaters, socks and booties, bibs and blankets to wrap up your child. Newborns need a lot of clothing to keep warm in the first few months of their lives, so be sure to have an ample supply on hand.
Stroller
Getting around with a child in tow is much easier when you have a stroller at your disposal. A good stroller will be able to protect your infant from the elements, such as wind, light rain and sunlight, and it should be comfortable enough that your baby can fall asleep while you move. Nicer models of strollers feature storage room and extra pockets to make towing your infant's belongings easier on the parent.
