Preparing to have a baby, especially if it is your first one is a daunting task. Most of all because the entire experience is new and you’re not sure what to expect. You have preconceived ideas but you’re not really sure. Of course, you will have many gifts given to you and you may receive some or all of these gifts. But, here are some tips regarding things you might consider having on hand before going to the hospital.
Pre-Baby Items To Purchase
1. Diapers (size 1 and up) -you can always return unopened diapers
2. Wipes – I prefer Pampers over Huggies. Huggies have a pattern on them and I prefer non-patterned. On the other hand, you may prefer patterned so choice will matter for you. Also, Pampers holds in the body fluids as far as I can tell better than other brands.
3. Boppy-The Boppy is a circular pillow designed to help you hold the baby in comfort. It will be worth the money!
4. Breast pump
5. Storage bags (for milk)
6. Bottle brush
7. Microwave cleansing bags or dishwashing rack
8. Bottle tree – dry rack
9. Comfy rocking chair – for nursery -with a high back (especially if you are tall)
10. Tons of Large: Swaddle lite blankets (these can be use in heat of summer)
11. Receiving blankets or cloth diaper inserts – these are good for spit up and burping
12. A few different style bottle (you never know which your baby will prefer)
13. Baby D Drops (Consult a doc)
14. NoseFrida – this act just like the bulb you receive in the hospital but it is not inserted into the nose
15. Digital Thermometer – I prefer the digital ear thermometer
16. Infant Tylenol (please consult a doctor on dosing information for fever)
17. Baby wrap – this is not a must have but its nice to have when you are an active Mom
18. Car seat – you will not need the toys and clothing before the baby comes home but you will need a car seat in order to bring that sweet little one home from the hospital. If you can not afford one, the hospital can provide one (please contact hospital for more information) Make sure to install the car seat before you due date. You can also have a local baby store help you with the install (call around to find out who may be able to install)
19. Crib – Make sure crib is up to date with (CPSC) standards, which mandate that spaces between crib rails must not exceed 2 3/8 inches, rail height and must reach at least 26 inches, and a crib’s paint contain no lead. Do not use a crib over 10 years old. Make sure there are no gaps larger than two fingers between the sides of the crib and the mattress. Also never place pillows or thick blanket in a baby’s sleep environment. Feel free to check website for more details
20. Smoke and carbon monoxide detector (I placed one in home and in the baby’s room)
21. Find a Pediatrician – Make an appointment to meet the doctors. Most Pediatrician offices have a meet and greet once a month
22. Baby bath
23. Newborn soaps and shampoo
24. Washcloths and towels – the hoodie towels are wonderful
If you want those precious newborn photos you see on magazines. You can have them too. So, make sure to setup a photographer for 1-3 after baby is born. Find one that you like and give them your due date. Make sure they are on standby. To capture those baby moments you MUST have the pictures taken within 5 days of birth if you want to capture that newborn look.
This is going to be an experience of a life time and every moment is oh so special. Make the most of it.