Having a baby is probably the most important event that will ever happen to a couple. And while it's a joyous occasion for most people, it's also extremely stressful, especially for new parents. One way to alleviate some of the stress is to make sure you have all the items your baby needs when he first comes home.
Car Seat
Next to food, a car seat might be the most important item for a new baby. Without a car seat, you won't even be able to take your new baby home. Most hospitals require nurses or some other hospital personnel to check that you have the right car seat and that it is properly installed before they will allow your baby to go home. You may want to have the car seat installed and inspected weeks before your newborn arrives to be sure you're ready.
Crib or Bassinet
According to BabyCenter, whether to get a crib or a bassinet is largely a personal choice. If you start your newborn sleeping in a crib, you avoid the extra expense of buying a bassinet or cradle. Bassinets, on the other hand, are smaller and more portable, which makes them easier to move from room to room. While the American Academy of Pediatrics advocates against sleeping in the same bed with your newborn, the group does recommend that you sleep in the same room.
Bottles and Formula
Even if you plan to breastfeed your baby exclusively, it's still a good idea to have some bottles on hand. You may wish to pump occasionally so your spouse can feed the baby at night or when you are away from home. You definitely need a good supply of bottles if you plan to feed your baby formula, either as a supplement to breast milk or as the baby's exclusive nourishment. Make sure to pick bottles and formula that are appropriate for newborns.
Diapers
According to the Nurture Center, newborns go through about 10 to 12 diapers a day, on average. Though the hospital may send you home with a small pack of diapers, you will want to have several days' worth on hand when you bring your baby home. Whether to use cloth or disposable diapers is largely a personal choice based on cost and convenience. Even if you choose disposable diapers, you may still want to keep some cloth diapers on hand as burp cloths. In addition to diapers, you will need baby wipes and diaper cream.
Clothing
Depending on the weather, newborns can usually get by for the first few weeks with one-piece outfits, commonly called "onesies." Make sure the onesies are weather-appropriate--short-sleeved in warmer months, long-sleeved in colder months. If your baby is born during the winter, you'll need cold-weather clothing, such as a coat or bodysuit, hat, mittens and heavy socks.
