Gearing up

Every parent-to-be has been overwhelmed by the task of outfitting baby with the seemingly endless array of available items -- some are essential, some not so much, but how to tell the difference? The following starter list is designed to help you begin to sort out what you really need from what items are destined to be packed up in a box or given away.

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• Car seat: You may not take your baby home from the hospital unless you have a car seat that meets your state’s safety regulations. Although some models are designed to graduate with your newborn into toddlerhood, many are specifically recommended to support a newborn’s wobbly head. Research your options and get recommendations. An infant car seat cover can also help keep the car seat looking new and provide a little added style.

• Crib, bassinet, co-sleeper ... ? Make your choice once you decide where baby will sleep..
  
  

• Baby's layette: You will need to stock up on enough clothes to allow for three or four changes per day, as well as enough bedding, blankets, and bathing sheets/wash cloths to keep on top of things. What do you need, and what can you live without? And where will you put them all?!
  
  

• Changing table: You'll likely be tempted to buy the more elaborate changing table to match your nursery furniture, but will a dresser top and simple changing pad suffice?
  

• Diaper pail: Some space-age thinking has gone into the design and marketing of diaper receptacles. You’ll appreciate the investment down the line when baby’s diet switches to solids and the smell of dirty diapers becomes increasingly obnoxious.
  
  

• Baby bottles: Even nursing mothers will want to keep some baby bottles on hand in the event they want to express and store milk.
  
  

• Baby carrier: To save the strain on your arms, find something to tuck your baby into while the family is out and about. Not to be confused with a car seat, this is something to transport your baby in while walking -- and possible to set baby down in while somewhere other than the bedroom. Depending on your needs, this can include:

• Infant seat
• Sling
• Baby Bjorn
  
• Baby carriage that lies on a flat surface
• “Pop-out” infant car seat
  
  

• Baby bathtub/washcloths/towels: Bathing a slippery newborn is nerve-wracking until you get the hang of it, and you need to be safety-conscious. Investigate options for bathtubs and baby-gentle linens.
  
  

• Fingernail clippers or scissors: You’ll need these if you don’t want to opt for chewing off your baby’s nails. Adult implements are far too large to safely use on baby.
  
  

• Baby bag: Since your "diaper bag" will almost certainly serve the dual purpose of holding what your purse once did, select one that is easy to carry, has a shoulder strap, and has enough pockets to separate baby bottles and dirty diapers from your wallet and car keys. And don't go all-business on the diaper bag. It does not need to match the nursery, just your chic self. Find designer diaper bags at Stella Maternity. This is the new thing you carry, along with that adorable baby. See it's all in the bag for some reviews of diaper bags. Here’s a barebones list of what you can expect to stuff in baby’s bag:

• Diapers
• Changes of clothes (remember the extra socks!)
  
• Baby wipes
• Bottles
• Blanket
• Changing pad
• Baby toys
• Hats
• Diaper cream
  
• Bottled water for you, especially if you're nursing
• Snacks
• Sunblock (for baby!)
• Baby medicines
• Tissues/Burp cloth
  
  

• Baby medicine: Most pediatricians will give you a complimentary bottle of some type of acetaminophen suitable for a baby's small system. Never give your baby any medications without first checking with your pediatrician. When fevers come, you'll want to have a reducer at the ready.
  
  

• Thermometer: If you don’t want to rely on your own sense of touch to tell whether or not your baby has a temperature, you can opt for either the traditional thermometer or the newer digital thermometers available.
  
  

• Dimmer switch: Expect to be up several times a night during baby’s first year. Keeping the lights just low enough to see what you’re doing – whether feeding or changing – will help keep baby partially asleep.
  
  

• Baby monitor: You can pick up a reliable and durable baby monitor for about $50. Place the speaker near your baby while he or she is sleeping and keep the receiver near you as you move about the house.
  
  

• Breast pump: If you want to store breast milk – and chances are you will – you can opt for the laborious, time-consuming hand-pumps or the elaborate electric breast pumps that empty both breasts in minutes. The latter can be rented, so ask your nurse if you are interested.
  
  

• Diapers and wipes: Expect to go through between ten and 12 diapers per day at the outset.
  
  

• Clothing: Although you won’t need much in terms of variety (though who can resist buying those adorable little outfits?), you will need to have enough quantity to allow for plenty of daily changes. Make sure to launder all clothing and bedding items before use. Here’s a starter list of what basic clothing your newborn will need:

• Six cotton bodysuits (onesies), the kind that tie or snap closed are best
• Three or four pairs of socks
• Three to four nightgowns or sleepsuits, either drawstring or snap-closed
• Soft, thin, swaddling ("receiving") blankets; a heavier blanket for outdoors
  
• Cold- or warm-weather-appropriate hat
• One or two sweaters for layering
• For cold weather, a warm suit

However, don't forget to have some FUN when it comes time to dress your little one! For months, you wore funny t-shirts that said We're Hungry! and Birth Control is for Sissies. Why should the laughs stop once your baby arrives? He might only be a few months old, but that doesn't mean he can't express a sense of humor! There are many sweet and silly options available for boys, girls, twins and more!

I'm not smiling...it really IS gas!
Daddy Did My Hair
Baby McDreamy. Bring Me a Bottle. STAT!
I Drink Until I Pass Out
Trouble Squared – for Twins
This is NOT a Bib - It's My Super Hero Cape on Backwards
Instructions Not Included
Naps Are For Sissies
Obviously Mommy Puts Out
Find even more cool baby clothes at Stella Maternity.

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