Baby Care Stuff

Newborn Baby Care Stuff

How can one tiny baby need so many things?! When you begin compiling the list of baby care items for your child, you may think you'll need to win the lottery to afford it all! Hopefully, someone will hold a shower for you, and you will probably get lots of wonderful gifts. In the meantime, the following is a list of some of the essentials for your newborn.

1. Crib or bassinett-Some parents never even use a bassitett, prefering to place their infant in a crib right from the start.
2. Changing table-Look for one that has plenty of storage space,too.
3. Infant car seat-Of course there are several different carseats available, and you can buy those that are convertible, also. Just make sure your baby fits securely in the carseat and that it faces the rear of the car.
4. Rocking chair-This will come in handy for those middle of the night feedings.
5. Clothes-You'll change your baby's clothing several times during the day, so it is a good idea to have plenty of sleepers, gowns, and onesies on hand. Don't forget the socks, too.
6. Burp cloths-Babies spit up, so you'll go through several of these each day.
7. Bibs-If you want to keep baby's clothing a little cleaner, you might want to use soft, cloth bibs especially when she is feeding.
8. Diapers and accessories-You can't survive without plenty of diapers, wipes, and diaper ointment!
9. Mattress pads-Your baby will probably wet her clothing and her bed, so be sure your have protective padding under the sheets.
10. Infant swing-Some babies love them, and others hate them! You'll find out soon enough!
11. Infant bouncy seat-Many babies love to snooze right in the living room in their snug, bouncy seat. You can move these around the house with you as necessary.
12. Front carrier or sling-Keep baby close to your heart in one of these.
13. Blankets-You'll need some receiving blankets to swaddle your little one in and thicker blankets, too. Never leave baby unattended with a loose blanket though to reduce the risk of SIDS.
14. Bulb syringe-You'll get the hang of using this in no time to suction out a stuffy nose.
15. Thermometer-You can purchase a digital rectal one or a digital ear thermometer.
16. Baby bottles-The reason for these is obvious!

Older Baby Care Stuff

As your baby grows, you'll leave some of the infant equipment and accessories behind, but you'll add new items, too

1. Car seat-Once your baby reaches twenty pounds and is a year old, you can face him towards the front. It is safer to leave the baby rear-facing for as long as possible though, so when baby outgrows the infant seat opt for a convertible seat that can rear-face up to 30lbs.
2. Activity Bouncer/Saucer-Pediatricians frown on walkers, so why not buy your baby a fun, activity saucer to keep her occupied?
3. Johnny Jump Up-Your little one will think he is a kangaroo once he gets going in one of these!
4. Highchair-Once your baby can sit with support, you can begin feeding him in a highchair.
5. Baby gate-As your baby becomes more mobile, you may need to cordon off a few areas in your home!
6. Safety gadgets-These include outlet plugs, doorknob guards, and cabinet latches, among other items.
7. Baby cups, plates, and spoons-Once your little one has graduated from the bottle, he'll enjoy holding his own cup and trying to feed himself, too!

Finally, as you can see, you'll probably be buying lots of baby care stuff for several years. Enjoy your little one!

Related Baby Links

Newborn Baby Care

Newborn Baby Sleep Habits

Breastfeeding Basics

Starting Baby on Solid Foods

Baby Development Stage for the First Six Months

Baby Development Stage for Ages Seven Through Twelve Months

Baby Development Stage for Ages Twelve to Twenty-four Months