So you’re expecting a baby soon? That’s incredible. Congratulations on your new bundle of joy. And as with every highly valued blessing, you need to be adequately prepared. As you probably know, being a new parent is not an easy feat. It requires a lot of effort and time. But with the right essentials, it can be a lot less difficult, and you can actually get to enjoy taking care of and raising the newborn instead of being stressed all the time. Here are a few must-have essentials that all parents should put in place to make the early days of taking care of an infant relatively easy.
Feeding Materials
Many parents choose to breastfeed their babies. If you’re doing this, then you may not necessarily require any equipment. However, life happens, and you may not be there 24/7 to breastfeed the baby or clean them up. If this happens, make sure you have the right accessories to make the process easy for your partner to take care of the baby while you’re out of the house. Some of these essentials include breast pumps, burp clothes, bibs, milk storage bottles, and a nursing pillow.
For you as the mum, you’ll need to have nipple lotion, washable or disposable nursing pads, and a nursing or wireless bra –if you’re buying before birth, buy one that’s bigger by one cup size. If you’re feeding the baby with formula, most of these apply except the nipple lotion and breast pump. You’ll require a thermal carrier, good quality formula, and formula bottle.
Baby Diapers
Most parents already know that they’ll need a lot of diapers. But which one are you choosing? Disposable or reusable diapers? If you’re choosing disposable diapers, buy those that are best suited for newborns. This is important because there are various diaper sizes for children. Specifically, ask for newborn diapers. Start with a pack of 2-3, and restock as needed. Babies sometimes grow very big very quickly. You want to avoid buying excess diapers that you won’t need. Also, get baby bum ointment, washcloths or disposable wipes, and a changing pad. If you’re using reusable diapers, get 5-7 dozens of reusable diapers, changing pads, and waterproof covers. Also, get safety pins, Velcro, or snaps to hold the diapers in place.
Baby’s Sleeping Needs
You want your baby to get as much sleep as possible. And for them to do this, the baby will have to be very comfortable. A sleeping baby is a peaceful baby, as you the parents, will be able to attend to other things while they’re resting. Get a baby cot or crib, cot fitted sheets, sleep sack, waterproof mattress covers, light blankets, and a firm baby mattress. Although it’s better to have the baby sleeping in their own cot, some parents can’t bear to be separated from their baby at night. So, if the baby will be sleeping on your bed, make sure your bed is firm –semi-orthopaedic mattresses are great, have a sleep sack for him/her, comforter, and waterproof pads that you’ll place under them.
With these three essentials, you’ll lessen your anxiety, and can be sure your baby will be able to eat and sleep well, as well as, be comfortable throughout.
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