From clothing to milk bottles, there’s a lengthy list of products that you need to purchase when you have a baby. It’s easy for certain items to get missed off your pre-baby shopping list. So that you’re fully prepared for parenthood, here is a list of commonly overlooked essentials for you to tick off. Have you got all these items?
Breast pump
If you’re planning on breastfeeding your child, a breast pump could be a useful accessory to have. Some moms find they don’t need them, but others find they are useful for removing excess breast milk and putting it into bottles, allowing you to take a break from night feeds and share feeding responsibilities with a partner. For comfort and durability, invest in a high quality pump. You can compare reviews of breast pumps online.
Baby shampoo
Babies have sensitive scalps, so you won’t be able to use standard shampoo to wash their hair. Instead, look for a shampoo designed for babies - this shampoo doesn’t contain the same harsh chemicals and may even have moisturizing qualities. Other baby hair care products like conditioners, combs and brushes could also be worth buying. Make sure to buy products suited to your baby’s hair type.
Baby nail clippers
Clipping an infant’s nails can be scary - especially if you’re trying to use an adult nail clipper. Baby nail clippers are designed for tiny fingers and many parents find that they are much easier to use for keeping their little one’s nails trimmed. Check out this guide to using baby nail clippers for safe use.
Thermometer
Does your baby have a temperature? Most babies will get ill at some point, and telling whether they have a fever or not can be tricky without a thermometer. Baby thermometers are small devices that are useful to have on these occasions. They can sometimes be bought in kits alongside other items like nail clippers and combs - a great way to tick off multiple items at once.
Baby carrier
A baby carrier can have many perks. It allows you to carry your baby with you hands-free, which can be useful for everything from carrying out housework to doing activities like hiking. Baby carriers come in different forms including slings and buckle carriers (many of these carry the baby at the front, but others can be used to carry your little one on your back). Decide which carrier is most practical for you.
Muslin cloths
Muslin cloths are fabric squares that have a variety of uses. Some parents use them as swaddle cloths, while others use them as washable rags for catching puke and cleaning up milk. You can buy muslin cloths in different patterns and colors, often in packs of 5 or 10. It’s also possible to buy custom muslin cloths, which can be a great baby shower gift if you know someone else who is expecting.
Diaper rash cream
Almost all babies experience diaper rash at some point. This uncomfortable rash can be quickly healed by applying some diaper rash cream. You can buy this cream in a tube over-the-counter at many convenience stores. A variety of other skincare products could also be worth looking into including baby lotion and cradles cap products.
Splash mat
If you decide to move your little one into a high chair, it could be worth buying yourself a splash mat to place below it. This is an easily wipeable mat that can catch any food debris and protect your floor. Splash mats are particularly useful when placing a high chair on a carpet. You can also use them for protecting your floor from messy play activities like painting and using Play-doh. Such mats are available in a variety of styles.
Stroller rain cover
A rain cover will keep your baby dry when pushing their stroller in the rain. These are transparent plastic sheets that go over your stroller. Some prams already come with rain covers (something to look into when stroller-shopping). Others can be bought separately and come in different sizes to fit different prams. Keep this rain cover under your stroller at all times in case of a surprise shower.
Travel crib
You may not need a travel crib if you’re unlikely to travel anywhere with your baby. However, if you are likely to stay around a friend or relative’s house with your little one or you plan on going on a vacation to a hotel, having this item could be extremely handy. Travel cribs are essential portable baby beds that fold-up easily and can be easily set up at any location. While you can just let your little one sleep in your bed, a travel crib could be useful if you want to discourage this or you feel unsafe having your baby in your bed. Some hotels may have cribs you can use, preventing you from needing this equipment, but you’ll need to research this beforehand
Baby bouncer
Baby bouncers are seats for your infant that can provide a natural rocking motion. They have many benefits. Firstly, they make an excellent place to put your baby down for short periods while doing other activities (most bouncers come with straps, allowing you to fasten your baby in so that they don’t fall out). Secondly, many babies find the rocking motion of them soothing (some bouncers also vibrate and can play soothing music, helping to encourage naps and settle crying). On top of this, bouncers can often help with digestive issues and reflux by keeping your baby upright. This guide explains more on how to choose a baby bouncer.
Diaper bag
This is a purpose-designed bag for keeping diapers, wipes, bottles and other baby equipment in. You can just use a handbag - however diaper bags are typically designed to be easy to clean and have compartments designed for different baby essentials. Shop for different styles online or at your local baby store. It’s possible to also buy matching diaper bags with certain prams (which are sometimes discounted if you buy the pram at the same time).
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