It's really amazing to think that the nine months of pregnancy leads to a lifetime of love. Getting to know your baby will be one of the most awe-inspiring journeys of your lifetime. Okay, sometimes a little mind-boggling, too. Don't worry, though, your little one thinks you're an expert. And in a very short period of time, you will be.
Newborns are such little tiny creatures, but they take over your life. You need to feed them, clothe them, change them, bathe them, comfort them, give up a little sleep. It's a lot of work, but the payoff is incomparable to any other reward you'll ever receive. Those first smiles are only the beginning of the love aimed at you in exchange for simply being a devoted Mommy (or Daddy).
What baby gear do you REALLY need for baby's homecoming?
You'll be tempted to purchase or register for everything under the sun when you're planning for baby. But, do you need a high chair and a baby exercise "saucer" for a two day old baby? Or even a two month old baby? No, you don't. So, if you didn't receive the mother load at your baby shower, haven't gotten around to finishing your shopping, have space constraints, or are budgeting your baby needs over time, here's a list of must haves for bringing home baby.
Rectal thermometer/calibrated underarm thermometer Cool mist vaporizer Cotton Swabs Rubbing alcohol Car seat Diapers (newborn or size one) - a one week supply for a newborn is 70-84 diapers Diaper ointment Changing pad (to be used with or without changing table) Baby washcloths (for diaper changes and bathing) Sponge bathing liner (or even use a regular folded bath towel) Two hooded baby towels Mild baby soap Baby Nail clippers or scissors Baby comb/brush 8 Lightweight sleepers (kimonos or footed pajamas) 8 One piece snap shirts 6 pairs socks/booties Sweater set Bunting/snow suit for fall winter babies Hat (sun hat for Spring and Summer babies - warm hat for Fall and Winter babies) Bassinet, Crib, or co-sleeper (a travel crib-like device which attaches to the side of parents' bed) 3-4 fitted sheets 6 or more receiving blankets (for swaddling) 2 blanket sleepers 8 bottles w/slow release nipples 1 week supply formula Breast pump if nursing Breast milk storage bags if nursing 3 pacifiers (if desired) 8 - 10 burp cloths
Some helpful extras Soft toys (to look at) Bouncy seat Bottle sterilizer (but boiling and dishwashing work nicely, too) Waterproof lap pads Baby sling carrier
Eventually, you may want to have... Baby wipes Baby swing (if desired) Baby exercise "saucer" (no walkers, they are no longer approved by most pediatricians) High Chair Stroller
You don't need the latest gadgets and gizmos. You don't need a degree in early childhood education. You need love, the willingness to be flexible, the ability to learn from your mistakes. Mostly, you need love. And whatever you dole out, comes right back at you in duplicate.
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