Baby's Needs Checklist
Below is a checklist of all the things you will need to buy before your baby is born. All you have to do is print it off. See our printer friendly version
Use it as a guide. It is always best to wait until you are at least three months pregnant before buying in for the baby as you might find out what sex your baby is when you have an ultrasound, or in case of any problems.
Diaper Changing
Cloth or disposable diapers : cloth diapers are cheaper and better for the environment while disposable diapers are easier
Disposable cloth delivery service : There are many companies that will deliver disposable diapers to your door and their service is more affordable than you might think
Safety pins if using cloth diapers
Diaper bags
Baby wipes : use thick soft wipes they are gentler to baby's bottom or cotton wool and water is just as good
Changing mat
Diaper rash cream
Changing bag for traveling : try to get one that has a built in changing mat
Baby's Clothing
Sleep suits : if your baby is born in the winter months then buy thick warm sleep suits, buy thin cotton ones if your baby is born in the summer months
Vests
Cardigans
Socks
Booties
Scratch mittens
Hats (woolen if winter, cotton if summer.)
Snow suit if winter
Remember to only buy a few of each until after your baby is born. Buy clothes in unisex colours(lemon, white, mint) unless you know what the sex of your baby is going to be.
Bathing Baby
Baby bath : you can usually buy baby baths that have a number of different accessories with them like thermometer, towel, potty and more as they often work out to be cheaper
Shampoo, baby soap, sponge and flannel
Baby brush or comb and scissors
Baby lotion, oil and talc
Baby towel : the softer the better; always wash towels before using them
Thermometer
Try and buy diapers and toiletries in bulk so as you won't need to worry about them when the baby is born allowing you to enjoy your time with the baby
Baby's Sleep
For the first few months you will need either a moses basket, crib or bassinet
Bassinet
Mattress
Sheets : fitted sheets are easiest but can be a bit expensive; buy at least four sheets as they need changing quite often
Several light blankets : use light colours; keep baby close by at night for the first few months and never use a pillow or duvet.
Breastfeeding
Breast pump : this for pumping breast milk into a bottle
Nursing bras : cotton is best as it allows air to circulate
Breast pads
Nipple cream : check with your doctor or mid wife first
Bottle feeding
Bottles : at least six bottles, sterilising equipment and sterilising tablets or fluid
Bottle brush
Bottle warmer
Infant formula milk : don't buy too far inadvance and always check the sell by date
Bibs
Make sure you always sterilize bottles properly after use. To save time you can make bottles up in advance and keep them in the refrigerator but only keep them for up to twenty four hours at a time
Out and About
Pram : prams are very comfortable and warm for babies but are no good for public transport
Strollers
Raincover
Shawl/blanket : always carry one with you to keep baby warm
Other Things
Baby bouncer : these are ideal to keep baby happy while you do other things
High chair
Mobile for cot
Baby listener
Dummies
Soft toys
Try and buy diapers and toiletries in bulk so you won't need to worry about them when the baby is born allowing you to enjoy your time with the baby.
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