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After Pregnancy

Bringing Home The Baby

Well, it is almost time for the baby to be born and you are probably wondering if you have everything ready so you can have a pleasant experience. Here is a checklist to help you ensure that you are ready to bring baby home when the blessed event occurs.

Of course, you will need a place for the baby to sleep, a car seat, clothing, diapers, bottles, and formula if you are bottle-feeding.

Look at the clothing you now have for the new baby. The outfits should be soft and comfortable without any tags or seams. You should choose clothing that will be easy to change or at least get to the diaper area, since you will be changing diapers all day long.

A few newborn outfits are all that you will need because babies normally outgrow their outfits rather quickly. Try to have clothing in the size up at least three months in advance.

Checklist for clothing:

  • 4 to 7 one piece outfits
  • 4 to 7 one-piece nightgowns or one-piece pajamas
  • 4 to 7 cotton shirts
  • 1 sweater or jacket
  • 1 snowsuit if the weather calls for it
  • 4 to 7 pairs of socks or booties
  • 1 cap or hat
  • 150 disposable diapers
  • 4 bibs

For taking the baby out shopping or visiting, you may enjoy something that is lightweight such as a sling. This way your hands are free for shopping.

A stroller is another great necessity for parents that do not like sitting at home all the time. For the newborn, you will need one that reclines and when in a sitting position will protect the head and neck.

Babies normally use 10 4-ounce bottles of formula per day. Even if you plan on breast-feeding, it is a good idea to have a few around just in case you wish to use the breast pump and let someone else feed the baby while you take a much needed nap.

Along with the crib, you will need a firm mattress, sheets, blankets and a bumper pad. You may wish to use a bassinette or cradle until your little one is bigger. Four receiving blankets are recommended, however, some mothers prefer a few more. These blankets are used quite often for wrapping baby to give him security.

You should also invest in a bathtub specially designed for a newborn baby. It can be very difficult to give your newborn a sponge bath in the kitchen sink.

For mom:

  • 2 to 4 nursing bras if you are breastfeeding
  • A box or two of nursing pads
  • At least two boxes of maxi-pads