Expecting a tiny little human can be stressing...to say the least. And that includes being prepared for them by checking off all the boxes on the things you need to raise them. Here's my list for everything that I used for both my children with descriptions.
Nursery
- Crib: One of the bigger expenses, in both size and cost. And when it comes to cribs there are SO many options! Modern, rustic, futuristic, and so so so much more. I decided to use the same crib for both my kids, and I love it. It's a 4-in-1 crib that grows with the kid. Growing from a crib to toddler bed to a day bed to a full-size bed. Not only is it convenient, but also will save you some money in the long run.
- Crib Mattress: You'll want to find something soft yet firm for your little one. Something that properly fits the dimensions of the crib that you choose and made of quality material. And trust me, you'll definitely want a water-proof one. Because at some point, your baby will leak out of their diaper so it doesn't hurt at all to have an easily cleanable and washable protective layer on the mattress.
- Changing Pad: If you decide on getting a changing table, it will more than likely come with one. But if you choose to go in the direction of most moms these days, you may want to find an option that can mount to the dresser.
- Changing Pad Covers: Any will do, but make sure you get at least two! Because shit WILL happen and you'll need some back up for when it does.
- Dresser: Even if you have a decent closet for your little one, having a dresser will help in the long run. Especially with all of the onesies and pants. Because there will be a lot. Then you'll be able to leave some room for all of the other adorable outfits to be hung in the closet.
- Bassinet/Co-Sleeper: Not every baby is going to immediately sleep in their crib. Most parents actually prefer to have a co-sleeping item within their room for the first few months. It can provide a piece of mind, help with the nighttime feedings, and feel more attached by just being closer to their babies. For both my kids, I chose to use the rock-n-play.
- Swaddle Blankets: Babies love to be swaddled, especially when they first make their arrival. It just makes them feel better. Giving them a nice and tight swaddle to have the warmth and cuddled feeling that they had in the womb.
- Crib Sheets: Just like the changing pad covers, you'll want a few sheets as well. Most are pretty thin and get messy REAL fast. So you'll want to have plenty of backups for all of the pee, poop, and vomit that comes with the territory of having a baby.
- Diaper Genie: Aka your nose's life saver. It will not only keep the smells at bay, but will also help with not taking all those dreaded trips to the trash can.
Feeding
- Bottles: Whether you breastfeed or formula feed, you're going to need some bottles! But don't settle on buying just one brand of them. Because it's not set in stone on which one your baby will like. Every brand has a different size and shape that some may not feel right to your baby. I used the Avent bottles for my son, and made the mistake of buying a ton for my daughter. Who ended up liking the Tommee Tippee bottles instead.
- Bottle Brush: Let's be honest, bottles get pretty dang nasty if they aren't cleaned properly. But having a bottle brush will make all of the difference. The soft ends and nipple attachment will help you get into all of the crevices in the right way!
- Pacifiers: If you choose to use one, you have a ton of options here as well. Because just like the bottles, every brand has a different feel and fit. So steer clear of stock piling just one brand here as well. My son did better with the Phillip's ones while my daughter liked the Nuk ones.
- Pump/Accessories: Depending on your insurance, you may be getting one when you leave the hospital. But if you prefer a different brand and/or want a manual, there's some options as well. Plus, you'll need the parts that don't initially come with it - flange sizes, storage bags, and/or some pump wipes. I had gotten a Medela electronic pump from the insurance for both my babies, but found the Evenflo manual one easier with my daughter, especially for public usage.
- Boppy/Nursing Cover: You'll want to get a super lightweight and breathable nursing cover. One that doesn't irritate the baby to be under, can keep you easily in view of the baby, and also keep you covered up. I chose the ones that also double as a car seat cover because they help in not forgetting and also leave a little more room in the bag by not having to pack them. The boppy will provide relief to your back, neck, spine and arms. While also bringing the baby closer to your body for a good latch and comfort.
- High Chair: The high chair may also be a big expense. You may want the full chair or a half chair that can attach to a normal seat or lay on the floor. Any will do as long it is easy for your baby to sit up in and is safe.
Potty
- Diapers: The things that you'll use the most! And a lot of them. But make sure to add a mixture of sizes and brands to your list. Some may be too snug or easily leaked through depending on your baby. I personal prefer the Pamper's Swaddlers. My kids have always had some pretty chunky thighs, so the swaddler ones have a little more wiggle room around that problem area. And I tried huggies, but found that both leaked through them way too easily.
- Wipes: Something else you'll be seeing a lot of. You'll also get a feel here of which ones you like. Some are softer, scented, or even carry more. My preference are the Costco brand of Kirkland. We can stock pile on them and they are thicker and therefore more absorbent in my opinion.
- Diaper Rash Cream: Don't skip out the cream! It's inevitable that your baby will at some point get a rash. Even if it is rare. But you want to definitely get a good brand when it comes to cream. It could mean the difference between having a rash between changes or for a few days.
Gear
- Car Seat/Stroller: Your biggest and best investments. And ones that you will have to choose wisely because they are all about protecting your baby. There are many options here too, especially when considering a stroller. We have always gone for a more simple aproach with the Graco brand for both car seats along with bases and strollers that easily click in the car seats. Which now we have a double! But I do know a few people who love the strollers that can be transformed from a car seat holder, sitting up, and full lay down.
- Bouncer, Lounger, and Swing: Once again, a lot of options here. And you'll find that you don't actually need them all. Your baby will have their own preference very early on. My son loved the bouncer. While my daughter loves the lounger and Mamaroo swing.
- Pack 'n' play: This isn't just for long distance trips! It can be taken to grandma's house for nap time, used during camping, a place to put the baby to just play, or even as a co-sleeping item to put into your room. In either case, it provides comfort and a sense of familiarity to your baby.
- Baby Wrap/Carrier: You can't expect to hold the baby EVERY time they need/want you nor stay in a stroller for an extended period of time. So get a baby wrap or carrier. They keep the baby close, allow you full function of both your hands to get stuff done, and aid a lot in getting the baby to sleep.
- Diaper Bag: Whether you choose an over the shoulder or backpack diaper bag. Choose wisely! You'll need something practical enough to hold EVERYTHING that you will need to care for your baby through the days. Enough room for bottles, formula, clothes, bibs, headbands, sweaters, socks, toys, and much much more. My favorite has been the backpacks.
Health and Safety
- Baby Thermometer: I've found that the best are the ones that you can easily swipe across the forehead. They're a little more expensive but they allow you to check on the baby without waking them and take the less amount of time to read.
- Humidifier: I didn't think I needed one, until I actually had a kid. A humidifier has been our life saver during the sick times. It clears them out and helps them sleep better, especially at night.
- Monitor: You can choose a basic sound one, or decide to have a video one. I like the video ones because I get a bit more comfort and peace with being able to physically see the baby as they sleep.
- Nose Suction: Probably your best investment when it comes to having a sick baby. Babies don't have the ability to get out all of the mucus like me do, so they're going to need a lot of extra help to clear them out. I have been fine with both my kids using the standard bulb to suctions them out, but I know a lot of people who love the Nose Frida.
- Hand Sanitizer: Important part of keeping the germs away! I have one set up in our kitchen, in the bathroom, and even one placed on the handle of our diaper bag. Because hand hygiene, especially with visitors, is very important part in having a healthy baby.
- Baby Detergent: You'll want to get detergent tailored to the needs of your baby. Babies have sensitive skin, so they need fragrance free and sensitive detergent to wash all of their clothes. I love the Dreft brand at Target. It has gotten out a lot of stains and has never irritated my kid's skin.
- Baby Medicine: I highly suggest getting some baby Tylenol, baby Ibuprofen, Gripe water, and gas drops for your baby. The Tylenol and Ibuprofen will help for fevers. The gripe water will help for colic. And the gas drops are going to do wonders for those gassy fussy days.
Clothing
- I won't go too much into this because PRO TIP, you actually don't need to register for clothes! You'll get a lot of what you need from family and friends at the baby shower. But if you do want some specific clothes, go ahead and add it to the list!
Postpartum
- Pads: You'll need a mixture of maternity pads and menstrual ones. Because you are going to bleed. A LOT. For 2-6 weeks actually.
- Nipple Cream: This protects against chapped and cracked nipples when breastfeeding.
- Bottom Spray: Definitely a must have if you are going to have a vaginal delivery. And more so if you tear! It immediately provides healing and relief. My favorite was Dermoplast with my son.
- Peri Bottle: Another aid after a vaginal delivery that helps lesson the sting. Hospitals usually provide it. The angled end makes it so you don't have to lean awkwardly, aim, or miss every time you use the bathroom.
- Nursing Pads: I liked the disposable pads due more so the convenience, but they are sometimes itchy and uncomfortable. But honestly, anything helps to not leak through EVERYTHING and EVERY day.
- Nursing Bras/Tanks: You will leak, so you'll want to invest in a few of these for backup purposes. I like them because they are more supportive, comfortable, and don't squeeze out the milk when I need to breastfeed.
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