Goods
- A crib: Beware of used cribs because security regulations have changed drastically in the past few years and using them is not recommended. The mattress must be firm and, obviously, the right size. Your baby also shouldn’t be able to fit through the crib’s bars. If possible, look for rounded edges to avoid injuries when the child gets older. It might even be a good idea to buy a crib that turns into a kid’s bed—it’s a bit more expensive at first, but it’ll save you from making another big purchase in two years.
- 5 fitted and 12 quilted sheets: To be placed under your baby’s head. The quilted one will be useful for diaper changes during family outings. (Also: never ever ever put a pillow in the crib because the baby could suffocate.)
- A changing table: Everything will depend on the room’s layout. If there's enough space, choose a table with edges as high as your waist and storage space to put diapers, creams, powders and baby wipes.
- A bathtub: Plastic all the way.
- A stroller: If you’re the active type, consider investing in an all-terrain stroller to carry your baby wherever you go. Umbrella strollers often have wheels that jam and can be harder to steer.
- A sling or baby-carrier
- A car seat: For newborns especially. Some seats have a detachable baby carrier, others don’t. It’s up to you to figure out exactly how you’ll use it.
- A rocker: It allows your baby to sit in a semi-lying position.
- A breastfeeding pillow: That, or even an ordinary pillow could be useful if you’re thinking about breastfeeding.
- A bottle: If you decide to go the bottle route, you’ll need a cleaning brush, a dozen little bottles, nipple replacements, etc.
- Monitors: To hear the baby throughout the house and know when he or she wakes up.
- A diaper bag: Get one with lots of storage space. You’ll thank us later.
Baby care
- A few big, soft towels
- 2-in-1 liquid soap for babies: For hair and body, and preferably one with a neutral pH.
- Hydrating cream
- Bum cream
- A baby hairbrush
- Newborn-sized diapers: As with clothes, don’t buy too many until you know the actual size of your baby. (As a rough guide, newborn-sized diapers are really tiny.)
- Baby wipes or little towels: Use these only for cleaning the baby.
Any questions or recommendations? Share your experiences by writing us!
