Preparing for your New Arrival

The first few weeks after your baby is born will be a bit hectic and you won't want to have to run to the store to pick up any baby items you forgot or didn't realize you needed. At least a month before your baby is born, in case she comes early, you should have everything you need for at least the first few weeks. Although some of these items are optional, you may want to consider them or what you will use in place of them. Don't get too caught up with extra items you aren't sure you'll use because although something like a wipe warmer sounds like a good idea now, they aren't all that practical.

Clothing your baby
You will be amazed at the rate your baby goes through clothes. Between spitting up and leaking through their diapers, your baby will go through several outfits every day. Make sure you have a good selection of the following items for your baby: Bibs, socks, sleepers, gowns, hats, bodysuits, pants, blankets, and t-shirts. A few of each of these items should do. You might want to invest in a few more sleepers, gowns and blankets as you will be going through them like water during the first few weeks after your baby arrives.

Diapers and such
You will go through 10-12 diapers a day, at least at first, so be sure to stock up on plenty of these before your baby gets here. You may want to get at least one package of preemie or newborn diapers for the first few days. Newborns can be extremely small and don't always fit into the first size of diapers right away. You will also want to have plenty of wipes on hand; sometimes you will need quite a few for just one diaper change! You should also have diaper rash ointment, thermometer, respirator (though you'll usually get one at the hospital), nail clippers and a diaper pail.

The diaper bag
The diaper bag is an essential part of taking your baby out, even if only for a few minutes. Always make sure you have your bag packed with a few diapers, wipes, changing pad, extra change of clothes, socks, rattle or toy, an extra bib or two and a blanket. You may want to throw 10 or 20 dollars in your bag for "just in case" money, you never know when you are going to lose a bottle or need another pacifier.

Feeding essentials
If you are planning on breastfeeding, you really don't need anything unless you plan on pumping, in which case you would need to invest in a breast pump, storage baggies and bottles. If you plan on bottle feeding, even if it's only part time, you will need to stock up on supplies to ensure you don't run out of anything when your baby needs to be fed. Buy both small and large bottles, sometimes your baby will be hungrier than others. You will also need a short list of essential items such as: bottle liners or brushes, plenty of formula and a bottle warmer and sterilizer.

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