Carissa's Blog

Clothing:

6-8 undershirts (buy side-tying or button or snap front for the first few days; once the cord falls off, you may want to have some “diaper shirts” that snap closed at the crotch)
3-5 nightgowns (for use until the cord falls off)
6-8 one-piece stretchy sleepers
1 or 2 hats
2 or 3 “outfits” for dressing up
4 or 5 pairs of socks or booties, to wear with nightgowns and outfits
1 or 2 pairs of scratch mittens, to keep baby from scratching his face
1 or 2 sweaters or jackets, more in winter
bunting bag or snowsuit for winter baby

Blankets:

1 or 2 large cotton blankets
6-8 receiving blankets (also good as burp cloths)

Feeding:

If you are breastfeeding, no equipment is needed! Some nursing mothers like to have these optional items:
breast pump
milk storage containers
nursing pillow
nursing bras (if buying prenatally, buy one cup size larger than your pregnant bra size)
breast pads (disposable or washable)


Bathtime:

1 plastic infant tub (or use a large dishpan in the sink, or take baby in the bath with you)
6 to 8 wash cloths, not used on baby’s bottom
baby soap or cleanser
baby shampoo
baby soft-bristled hair brush

Bedtime:

If you are using a crib:
approved crib and crib mattress
2 or 3 waterproof mattress covers
3 or 4 fitted cribsheets
3 or 4 light blankets that fit in the crib

If baby will sleep with you:
firm mattress (not a waterbed)
2 or 3 waterproof pads to place under baby

Other items:

nail clippers or scissors (or just bite off baby’s nails as needed)
bulb syringe for suctioning mucous
baby thermometer
eye dropper or medicine spoon
approved infant car seat
sling or baby carrier
stroller that reclines so newborn can lie flat
diaper bag
1 or 2 change pads
change table (or just use change pad on top of dresser or bed)

Other optional items:

pacifiers
baby swing
bouncy baby seat
mobiles
rattles and other baby toys