Getting Ready for Baby - a List of Things You'll Need

What the baby will need at the hospital

• Undershirt
• An outfit such as a stretch suit, nightgown, or sweater set
• A pair of socks or booties
• Receiving blanket, cap and heavier blanket or bunting, if the weather is cold
• Diapers and wipes (some hospitals provide an initial supply of these)
• Safety pins or velcro attaching strips, and rubber or nylon pants (if you are using cloth diapers)
• Infant car seat
• Diaper bag

Safety items for the home

• Night lights or soft lighting
• Baby monitor
• Baby nail clippers/scissors manicure set

Things you'll need to transport the baby

• Car seat - you will need to find out the specifications for a car seat that will fit in your car. All car seats are not made alike.
  http://www.kidshealth.org/parent/firstaid_safe/travel/auto.html
• Stroller
• Backpacks and soft carriers
  http://www.kidshealth.org/parent/pregnancy_newborn/learning/products.html
• Diaper bag - since this is something you will be carrying around for about three years, choose one that is comfortable and durable for you.

Items for the baby's room

• Crib and crib linens
• Play pen or portable crib
• Changing table
• Dresser
• Glider or rocking chair
• Clothes hamper

Suggested items for your home

• Diapers or cloth diapers - you can get a couple of different brands of diapers so you can test them out and choose your favorite.
• Receiving Blankets - for safety information, click here:
  http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs/5049.html
• Clothing - for safety information, click here:
  http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs/slpwear.html
• Breast pump - if you plan to breastfeed.
• Bottles - be sure to get the correct size of nipples, such as preemie, or newborn.
• Rectal or digital ear thermometer
• Bathtubs
• Washcloths and baby wipes
• Diaper rash ointment and/or petroleum jelly
• Hooded Towels
• Diaper disposal system - good to have, but not necessary.
• Burp Cloths and waterproof lap pads
• Bulb syringe - for suctioning baby's nasal passages if necessary. Your baby's doctor will tell you if, when, and how to do this.

Things you'll need as the baby gets older

• Outlet protectors
• Toys
• Books
• High Chair
• Gates