If you just found out that you’re going to be a parent, saying you’re overwhelmed can be an understatement. Not only do all your family and friends have advice for you, but you’re probably being bombarded by advertisements for new products and services to help make your life as a new parent either.
However, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By keeping the essentials in mind and adapting from there, you can simplify your new parenting life.
Read on for our top five baby must haves that every new parent should own!
1. Diapering
You’ll need to stock up on diapers well before your baby has arrived. First, you’ll need to decide whether you want to use cloth diapers or traditional disposable diapers. Next, you’ll need to know that the average newborn baby goes through about eight to 12 diapers per day!
You’ll also want wipes for sensitive skin and a changing table and pad. You could also just purchase a pad that’s easy for you to clean; place it on top of a dresser that’s at a comfortable height, and you’re good to go.
2. Sleeping
You probably already know that once you have your baby, sleep isn’t going to be as easy. However, a few tools can make it easier to put your baby to sleep. Here are a few essentials:
- Blackout shades
- White noise machine
- Mattress protectors and backups
- A bassinet or co-sleeper in your bedroom
- Baby monitor
Keeping a bassinet or co-sleeper in your room for the first few months of your baby’s life is important, as this reduces the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
3. Feeding
It’s important that you purchase a comfortable chair for yourself along with a nursing pillow to keep your arm from tiring. Stock up on soft burp cloths to keep your baby clean. Here are a few more items that can keep you comfortable:
- Nipple cream
- Nursing pads for under the shirt
- Glass bottle for formula feeding
- Newborn nipples for bottles
- Bottlebrush
- Bottle drying stand
- Formula
However, make sure you only stock up on a week or two of formula. You’ll want to first make sure that your baby likes the formula you choose and doesn’t have any adverse reactions to it.
4. Traveling
Remember that having a baby doesn’t mean you have to be bound inside for the first year of his or her life. Being prepared with some quality travel gear will make traveling easy and fun with your baby. Here are a few suggestions:
- Graco pram
- Carseat
- Sleepsack
- Diaper bag
- Diaper changing pad
- Baby carrier
- Sanitizing wipes
Make sure that the companies you purchase the car seats and strollers from have good return policies so that you can try them out.
5. Play
You’ll also want some soft and colorful toys and objects that can delight your newborn. Make sure that plastic toys are made from BPA-free materials.
- Soft stuffed animal
- Colorful rattle
- Balls
- Board books
You want to choose simple toys that are easy and safe for your baby to grab and play with. Remember not to put soft toys in their crib.
Baby Must Haves for New Parents
These baby must haves are all about sticking with the essentials and adapting from there. As long as you make sure that you’re stocked up on the essentials, you can save money by being flexible with your baby’s needs.
Keeping reading our blog for more tips on your transition to parenting!
