"Must-Have Newborn Essentials for First-Time Parents"
The newborn essentials list can be overwhelming if you’re a first-time parent. What does your baby need? Here’s a list of the must-haves to get you started. We’ve covered you, from car seats to cribs and everything in between. You’ll be a pro in no time!’
1. A safe place for baby to sleep - a crib or bassinet with a firm mattress
Sleep safety is one of the most important things to consider when welcoming a newborn into your home. A crib or bassinet with a firm mattress is essential to ensure safety while allowing babies to get the restorative sleep they need. To further safeguard, monitor the safety standards for any crib or bassinet you use, as safety standards change regularly. The consumer product safety commission in accordance with the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a crib with slat spacing less than 2 3/8 inches, a snuggly fitting and firm mattress, and no drop sides on the crib. This will also ensure that your baby enjoys a comfortable and secure sleep experience for many years!
2. Diapers and wipes - lots of them!
Newborns go through many diapers and wipes, so stocking up on both is essential. A good rule of thumb? Double what you think you need! Diapers and wipes reduce leaks and wetness from those inevitable little accidents – but it can feel like they happen nonstop with a newborn. Make sure you have several packages of the size your baby will require once you bring them home: there’s nothing worse than running out in the middle of the night when you’re exhausted. With enough on hand for even the messiest surprises, you’ll be ready to face each day as a new parent. Check out my post on what Nurse Drea recommends as the best Name Brand of baby diapers for more info on which diaper to choose.
3. Baby clothes - comfortable onesies, socks, and hats
Baby clothes are a must-have for any new parent. As they grow fast, it’s essential to ensure they’re always comfortable and securely fitting in their new outfits. Soft onesies, comfy socks, and cozy hats are necessary items that keep your little one warm and feeling relaxed without over-complicating the clothing/ dressing process. Not only do they add a splash of personality or style to any outfit, but they also keep your baby comfortably warm. With so many stylish options available in newborn sizes, there’s no better way to make sure they stay snuggly and happy all day long without compromising on cuteness. Just be sure to purchase many different sizes ranging from newborn to 6 months so no matter what size your baby is born or how fast they grow you are prepared.
4. Car seat
A car seat is essential for any new parent, and safety should always be a top priority. It’s critical to ensure that your newborn is safe when heading out on the road. The right car seat ensures that your little one is safely strapped in and secure while you travel, giving new parents peace of mind each time, they hit the road with their newborn. Not only is a car seat required for leaving the hospital when taking your baby home, but it’s also an important safety measure to keep in mind while traveling near or far with your infant. The type of car seat your infant needs depends on several factors including your child’s age, size, and developmental needs. Starting with a rear-facing convertible car seat may be the most cost-effective way to keep you baby safe through each developmental stage without purchasing multiple different seats.
5. A breast pump - for nursing mothers
For breastfeeding mothers, a breast pump is essential for maintaining their milk production and preserving precious bonding moments with their babies. With such a helpful device available, breastfeeding moms can keep up with the physically demanding needs of having a newborn while still enjoying quality time with their little ones. It can provide flexibility in scheduling breastfeeding sessions, increase breastfeeding confidence, and allow mothers to take a much-needed break from breastfeeding if needed. Plus, it makes it possible for another caregiver to help provide nourishment without compromising breastfeeding connections.
6. Bottles and formula
When it comes to feeding your newborn, feeding is best. While breastfeeding may be an ideal choice for some, there are many effective alternatives, such as bottle and formula-fed babies. It is essential to pick the right bottle or formula that meets the needs of both you and your baby. Whether it’s a simple plastic bottle or one with intricate features, make sure that it is comfortable in your hands to nurse it with ease. Additionally, familiarize yourself with different formulas- organic, cow-milk-based, hypoallergenic – so you can select what best fits your and your little one’s needs. We can ensure our babies get the nutrition they need to grow in a safe and healthy environment with suitable bottles and formula.
Suppose you’re a new parent or about to become one, Congratulations! You’re in for the ride of your life. To help you start this fantastic journey, we’ve put together a list of newborn essentials. This list has everything you need to get started, from the obvious (a crib or bassinet) to the not-so-obvious (breast pumps and formula). Once you’re all set up and settled in at home with your new baby, be sure to join the Nurse Drea email list and follow us on social media to stay up to date on all your pediatric health news. Thanks for reading!