Baby Essentials
By: Kurstyn Baxter and Kat Holecek
Baby Clothes
One-piece outfits (5-7)
Look for one-piece outfits that zip or snap down the front and all the way down the leg; these allow you to change your baby's clothes easily without pulling things over her head.
Shirts (5-7)
Look for T-shirts and turtlenecks with plenty of room in the neck, or snaps at the neck, so they slip easily over your child's head.
Leggings or pull-on pants (5-7)
Look for stretchy waistbands that fit easily over your baby's diaper and belly – and expand as he gains weight.
Outer layers (5)
Jackets or sweaters that zip are best because little children don't really like fitting their head through a small neck opening, buy larger sizes.
Hats and mittens
Hats that cover their ears and mittens that are shaped like bags.
Socks or booties
Good for indoor and outdoor wear.
Shoes
Wait to buy real, hard-soled shoes until the baby is a stronger walker.
Pajamas/sleepers (5-7)
Look for soft, breathable natural fabrics that aren't too complicated.
Diapering
Diapers (70-84 a week)
Your baby will go through about 10-12 a day.
Wipes
Whether you buy them or make them, you'll want to be prepared.
Changing pad or table
Some parents just use a changing pad or towel on the floor or bed.
Baby Gear
Baby carrier
Make sure the straps and harnesses will support your baby securely.
Stroller
A stroller is a good way to roll your baby around town.
Car seat
Resist buying a used car seat because safety regulations change over the years.
Breastfeeding and bottle-feeding
Nursing pillow
More convenient and better at keeping your baby in position then a regular pillow.
Breastfeeding asseccories
Lanolin ointment can help relieve sore nipples. Gel packs can also sore swollen or sore breasts.
Burp clothes (6-12)
Good to catch or wipe up other baby fluids.
Bottles (6-12)
Newborns usually start with the 4 ounce bottle, but you'll need some 8 ounce bottles as your child begins to drink larger amounts.
Formula
If you can't or don't plan to breastfeed, there are numerous infant formula options to choose from.
Bottle brushes (2)
These are handy for scrubbing small parts in a bottle.