Essentials for Newborns

Your bundle of joy is almost here. You are getting anxious. Do you have everything you need? What if you didn't think of everything? Is it really necessary to have everything on the "must have" baby lists? Let's take a look...

The needs of infants typically do not match the length of most baby registries. For babies to be safe and cared for, there is only a short list of required items. Here is a list of essential items for a baby aged 0-3 months:

Car seat: A car seat is essential for transporting your baby safely in a car (more on choosing a car seat here).

Crib, lounger, or bassinet: Sleep can be a controversial topic. To co-sleep or not to co-sleep? Regardless of your position on this topic, you will want a safe place for your baby to sleep during their frequent naps (if it's not just on you every time). A crib, lounger, or bassinet gives you place for baby to sleep without fear for them rolling or getting caught in blankets (so long as those stay safely out of the crib and bassinet until baby is old enough).

Clothing: Soft, comfortable clothing for your baby, including onesies, sleepers, socks/booties, and hats. Remember that babies cannot regulate their temperatures yet, so they rely on you and their clothing to help them stay a safe temperature.

Diapers and wipes: Disposable or cloth diapers and wipes for changing your baby's diaper. Be sure to look at the ingredients in your choice of wipes so you can steer clear of toxins.

Formula (if not breastfeeding or if supplementing): As we have seen from the past formula shortages, formula feeding can be stressful! I recommend having extra formula on hand at all times, and look in to formula alternatives that will be safe for your baby.

Bottles: Safe, non-toxic bottles for feeding your baby formula or breast milk (more on bottles here). I would recommend having a bottle on hand even if you plan to exclusively breastfeed. There are a variety of things that can interfere with breastfeeding, and being caught with a hungry baby with no back-up plan can be highly problematic.

Swaddle blankets: Soft, comfortable swaddle blankets for wrapping your baby.

However, some items are so convenient and helpful, many would consider them essential. I would consider these all near-essential items:

Breast pump (if breastfeeding): A breast pump if you plan on breastfeeding and need to pump milk. Even if you are exclusively breastfeeding, these pumps can be very handy. There may be times when you have an extended separation from your baby, or your baby goes without eating for an extended period of time (extra long nap, night sleep, hunger strike, illness, etc.). Having a pump will help relieve your breasts and prevent engorgement. Many parents also find the prospect of having a few bags of frozen pumped milk as a nice insurance in case of emergency.

Baby Carrier/Wrap/Sling: Babies need to be held. Parents need to do things. Baby carriers and slings are a great way of meeting the needs of both parties. Babies get to be close to you and benefit from the sight, smell, and temperature regulation of your body. You get to move about with your hands free and snuggle your baby at the same time. Win-win!

Baby Monitor: Anything that tells you when baby is crying is useful if you don’t plan to stay within earshot of baby during naps or at night. We have really enjoyed cameras with the ability to adjust remotely and see a visual of the baby at night. However, there is a light that the camera gives off if you opt for the night vision. Some may argue that this light can interfere with babies sleep if it is close enough or within their sight. Also, the more features you include, the higher the price goes. We have friends that use applications on their phones and use an old smart phone as their monitor. There are lots of inexpensive options that can meet the need!

Bouncer or swing: A bouncer or swing for soothing your baby while you do something that requires you to move independently (like showering).

Changing table and pad: A safe and convenient place to change your baby's diapers. Sometimes this is a dresser, pack and play, table, or another tall surface. It is not necessary to buy a piece of furniture that is labeled “changing table”. However, having a waterproof pad and some sort of liner is highly recommended since there is no question that there will be accidents on this surface.

Cool-Air Humidifier: A humidifier to add moisture to the air, especially during the dry winter months. Infants can be sensitive to dry air, which causes dry skin, chapped lips, and nasal congestion. It also helps with a cough and cold and reduces the risk of infections.

(Diaper) bag: A convenient bag to carry all your baby's essentials while on the go. This could be any old bag that will hold the essentials while you are out and about (diapers, wipes, change of clothes, balm, blanket, pacifier, etc.).

Pacifier: This can be controversial! A pacifier satisfies babies urge to suck and can help with soothing. If you decide to use one, it is recommended to wait to use a pacifier until breastfeeding is well established (typically around 3-4 weeks) (more on pacifiers here).

Stroller: Having a way to transport your baby and all their extra items can be very convenient, and sometimes essential. Some people are unable to use a baby carrier/wrap/sling, and other times it just doesn’t make sense.

Thermometer: A digital thermometer to monitor your baby's temperature. Infrared thermometers don’t seem to work as well as the good old-fashioned (and much better priced) rectal/oral/underarm versions.

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