You’re expecting a new baby, and you just need a quick and SIMPLE list of the necessities, but everywhere you look are lists of “Newborn Essentials” and “Newborn Hauls” including nearly 100 items! It can quickly become overwhelming and defeating! This blog is here to help by focusing on only 7 necessary items for your new family member.
Starting Strong with #1, a Car Seat!
This is an absolutely non-negotiable item. Before you can leave a hospital, birth center, etc. your baby needs to be in a safe & approved car seat. What qualifies a car seat as safe & in good condition?
- If the car seat has been used, confirm that it has never been in any type of a car
accident. Sometimes unknown damage can occur when a car seat has been in a wreck, and the integrity of the car seat is no longer intact. - Confirm that your car seat is in-date and that it properly fits your child. Most car seats have labels on the side including the date, weight requirements, etc. If you cannot find an expiration date, according to DPS.Texas.gov you will need to find the manufacture date and only use the seat if it is within 6 years of being manufactured.
- If you cannot afford a safe car seat, look into getting help from Safe Riders Program to see if you qualify for assistance. For more information, visit DSHS.texas.gov
Moving on to #2 – a Safe Space for Baby to Sleep!
Having a safe and comfortable place for your baby to sleep is another non-negotiable. Whether you get a crib or a bassinet, make sure it checks all the safe sleep boxes. It is important that newborns do not have loose blankets, pillows, and stuffed animals inside their sleeping area. Swaddles are considered safe in the early months but can become dangerous once a baby is more mobile and trying to roll in their sleep.
For more information on safe sleep practices, visit
https://safetosleep.nichd.nih.gov/reduce-risk/safe-sleep-environment
#3 Diapers!
I realize I’m stating the obvious here, but diapers are a necessity & will be used up quickly during the first few months of a baby’s life. However, I would advise against buying too many newborn diapers. During their first few months babies grow at an extremely fast rate. Many babies double in birth weight around 4–6 months! Try to be prepared but remember that it will not be long until your baby needs to size up! There are so many brands and styles of diapers available so find what fits your baby & family’s needs! A clean & dry diaper is the goal!
#4 Sleepers for the Win!
As a mom of a newborn myself — and having two under two — sleepers are absolutely the best option for a newborn. They’re affordable (especially when bought in packs of three or more), cute, and comfortable for your baby. Most keep their toes covered, and many include fold-over mitten cuffs as well. In the winter months, they make it simple to keep your little one warm and cozy. Like diapers, remember that babies grow FAST! You don’t need 50 newborn sleepers. Just make sure you have enough to rotate through and keep clean. Some babies are ready for 0–3 month sizes at birth and skip the newborn size altogether.
#5 Feeding Products
There are many different options when it comes to feeding your baby! Between breastfeeding, bottle feeding, using formula, combo feeding, or exclusively pumping, try to have a plan in place (regardless of the route you choose to take) to make sure the baby will have what he/she may need! This could include bottles, formula, pumps, breastmilk storage bags, or nursing covers, etc. all depending on the route you take.
#6 A Baby Monitor
Technically, some people might not view a baby monitor as a necessity with a newborn, but they sure are handy! There is a HUGE selection of baby monitors available, and many are affordable and will last you years. When shopping for a baby monitor, consider whether you prefer one that connects to Wi-Fi or one that does not. Wi-Fi monitors allow you to check in from your phone when you’re away from home, while non-Wi-Fi options operate on a closed system that some families prefer for added privacy. Make sure your home and setup fit well with the monitor you choose. Look at reviews and consider battery life, features, and quality before deciding what works best for your family.
#7 A Safe Bathing “Tub”
In the newborn phase, it can be difficult to bathe your baby without the proper set up & support. Make sure you have some type of safe area to bathe your baby and that they will be properly supported while doing so. My personal favorite is the AngelCare Baby Bath Support! This can be purchased easily through Amazon for around $20 and provides an easy & safe bathing experience for the first 6 months of a baby’s life.
Conclusion
I hope this simple, yet important list brings you clarity & simplicity as you are preparing to
welcome your new baby into the world! Remember, the most important things a baby needs are support & love, and by reading this blog, it seems your baby already has that! If you have any questions or comments, we would love to hear from you! If you’re in need of support or help during your pregnancy, look into our services here at Choices Clinic!
FREE & Confidential Services & Resources offered at Choices Clinic include the
following:
Pregnancy testing
Limited ultrasounds
STI testing and treatments
Material items needed for baby & mom (such as diapers, wipes, maternity clothing, etc…)
Parenting classes & more!
Choices Clinic is conveniently located at
775 S. Harbin Drive, Stephenville, TX 76401
Feel free to call or schedule a free, confidential appointment online.
Phone number: 833-773-3001
Website: Choicesclinic.net
