When I was working, I would always get asked, “Do you have an item check list for baby items?” Well, here it is. Remember, I am giving an American version, but there are many cultures that would not see many of these items as a necessity. I have worked with many cultures that had things, Americans do not. So, with that being said, this is a basic suggestion of a list. Feel free to add more or reduce some items, it is only a guide.
Baby Items for the First Year
Clothing is broken up into segments of (0-3), (3-6) and (9-12) months. The amount suggested for 0-3 months can be applied to the other segments, as well.
Clothing Per Size
(10-12) Onsies, remember to get long sleeve onsies for the winter babies and short sleeved onesies for the warmer months. The idea is not going over -board and having so much baby clothing, that you have no where to store it except in bags to give away.
Pants: (5-7) per size. Depending on the season, you will have to guesstimate because during the colder months, you will be using pants more often, but during the warmer months, you can go with less covering with outfits.
(8-10) Zip-up PJ’s per size: These are fantastic because they are so much quicker to get on and off, compared to the button-up PJ’s. The button up ones are fine, until it is the middle of the night and you’re trying to line up all the buttons except you can’t see and the night light isn’t helping!! Have I been there? Yes I have!!! It is more difficult if you have a wiggler, so I do recommend getting a zipper PJ, there are also inverted zipper PJ’s, which are great too!
(7- 10) pairs of socks: This is more than enough to keep in stock, extremeties do tend to get cold, but over-stocking is not necessary.
(2) Pairs of Shoes – One casual pair, one dress-up pair. During the first year, shoes are more for fashion, they have no other purpose until they begin walking.
(2-4) Baby Blankets- These will include 2 for the basinet/crib and 2 for outings and using it for the car seat. The idea is to have a clean one ready when the other one is ready to go into the hamper.
(2) Baby Swaddlers- I highly recommend having swaddlers for sleep (the first 4 months only)!! They will make your baby a happy baby, please check my section for sleep. You can use a blanket, but for those strong, wiggly ones, I highly recommend using a velcro swaddler.
(8-10) Outfits – During the first 3 months, your outings will be limited and you will only need outfits for Doctor’s visits, church, shopping and visitors. Once you are past the first two months, you will want to use those adorable outfits. The more, the better! Enjoy what you received for your baby shower and use them all. It comes in handy to have a lot, especially when you are having to change a baby due to blow outs and spit up.
Other Baby Essentials
(4-7) Receiving Blankets – Have sone available in different areas where the baby will be breastfeeding and having play time/tummy time for all messy spit-up sessions.
(4) Pacifiers per size – We will discuss how they should be introduced and used in the first year. I recommend having a container to place an extra one in your diaper bag, for outings and always have a clip so that if it falls out of the baby’s mouth, it doesn’t hit the floor.
(4) Pacifier Clips– Keep these safe in your diaper bag.
(1,000 – 1,200) Diaper Wipes per 3 months – Yes, you read that correctly! Wipes can add up in 3 months, so STOCK UP because you’re looking at around 4,000-4,800 in just the first year!!!
Diapers- This depends on how big and fast your baby is developing, but based on changing an average of 10 diapers per day, times 30 days comes out to 300 diapers per month. I recommend always going based on your baby’s weight. Here is a fantastic website that will guide you and save my typing it out: www.diaper-sizes.org
For basics, count on purchasing 2-3 boxes (per size) that has 100-140 diapers (per box) beginning with size 1 for disposable diapers.
Cloth diapering will save you around $2,000 from 0-3 years of age. I recommend it for stay-at-home Moms because they are available for the maintenance of them, but if you are a working Mom, disposable will be the obvious choice. Don’t get me wrong, if you have to leave your baby in child care, they too can get accustomed to cloth diapering, especially with providing a wet bag for them, so if you are more comfortable with that option, go for it!
24 Cloth Diapers with 6-8 Covers: With newborns, you will go through 10-12 diapers per day and you should wash your cloth diapers every 2-3 days to have clean diapers. With that being said, you will be a busy Momma!
(6)Diaper Cream tubes – Expect to go through one tube every 1-2 months. I recommend only using it for those poopie diaper changes, as long as a baby is wiped well after a urine change, they should not experience any irritation. You should place one tube in your diaper bag each month.
Diaper Bag: Go with what fits your style. I personally like the back-pack style that won’t slip off my shoulder, while I’m trying to hold baby in one arm and dealing with kids too, plus the back-pack helps with posture and balance. There are so many cute styles, but go with what suits your needs.
Bottle Nipples – From (0-3) months you should be fine with cleaning and sanitizing your bottle nipples. Once your baby reaches 3 months, place a reminder that it is “time to change the nipples out” and replace with (3-6) month old nipples. Each size grows with your babies food intake. So many Mommies forget to change the nipple of the baby bottle and their baby struggles to get the liquid out because the hole is still for the size of a newborn, thus you get an angry baby and you will not know why, at the time! Change for every section (3-6), (6-9) and (9-12) months.
Breast Pump- Most insurance companies will not provide you with a breast pump until you have established a good breastfeeding regime, which is usually around 6 weeks (post-partum). Some are able to get a breast pump before giving birth, so check to see where you stand with that. I highly recommend purchasing a Haakaa manual breast pump. This is highly efficient and you might not even have the need to get a breast pump. If engorged, the Haakaa is going to be your best friend. Simply place on your breast to get your fore milk out first, then try latching your baby on again. If using a breast pump for engorgement, only place on your breast for one minute. If placed on longer, it will send the wrong message to your brain and will end up producing more milk, thus causing more engorgement.
Car Seat – If you are signed up for a rewards program through your insurance or Medicaid, you could qualify for a free infant car seat. If you should end up with 2 or 3 after your baby shower, consider it a blessing and do not get rid of them! I always encourage Moms to have a car seat for anyone that is going to help with you baby. Give one to Grandma, your Sister, one for your Husband’s car. You might only have received one car seat. Do not worry, purchase a universal base for each vehicle and you can easily pass on your baby to family or friends, as long as they have a base for it in their car to keep baby safe!
*Tip* For a FREE car seat check, search your area, all Fire Departments are required to do this for all babies! There are always free car seat fairs in your area, so make sure to go to one. Your baby will remain in a rear facing car seat until they reach 40 – 50 pounds or reach the age of 2. Then you can transition them into a forward -facing Toddler car seat.
*Tip* Wal-mart and Target offer a carseat trade-in program (in case someone donates a used carseat to you. I really don’t recommend using a donated car seat. Many times they are expired and it is a HUGE safety issue! Please also check out places like eBay, Poshmark, thredUp, Mercari, OfferUp, Mommy markets, Maternal clothing exchange stores and Facebook Marketplace for items that you can purchase used. I will provide a list in a different post of what items you should never get used for your baby.
Feeding
(4) 4 ounce and (4) 8 – 10 ounce Bottles: In the beginning, your baby will slowly increase their intake, so once they reach 6 months of age, switch to the 8-10 ounce bottle. Make sure to wash and sterilize well. I do recommend investing in a silicone based bottle. They are easy to wash and keep clean and you are not exposing your baby to plastic. Glass bottles are just too heavy and dangerous. *Remember* NEVER microwave bottles to warm them up. I will have another post on how to store milk and properly warm bottles too.
Breast milk pouches – Every breastfeeding Mom has her options when it comes to pouches. A popular one right now is the Kindle Twist. You can purchase 80 bags for $25 with an Amazon Prime account and not only does it go up to 8 ounces, but it also has an adapter that allows for it to attach to nearly all major brands of pumps. The down side of this one is that it is extremely irritating and difficult to attach it to the adapter for bottle feeding. I would recommend something that will just store the milk, then label and date it with a permanent marker, to keep track of the storage expiration. Buy as needed.
Pacifiers- Pacifiers are for soothing and they can also help relax a baby because it forces their breathing to slow down, which helps them to calm down. I don’t recommend using a pacifier when a baby is calm and happy because it will become a habit and can later inhibit an infant from using their language skills. They can’t talk later if they always have a pacifier in their mouth. So, my recommendation is to invest in a silicone based pacifier to avoid placing plastic into your baby’s mouth on a continual basis. Again, if you cannot, that is fine. Baby will have their preference too. Just remember that they too grow with baby, so as they reach their milestones, you will need to purchase one that will be age appropriate.
Breast Pads – My favorite nursing pads would have to be the washable ones, but there are disposable ones by companies like Lansinoh that come in packs of 36 or more.
Nipple Cream – If you are breastfeeding, this is an absolute necessity! Your nipples can crack and will at times be very sore after breastfeeding a hungry baby. There are many options, but my advice is to purchase one that does not stain your clothing (where your nipples are, totally embarrassing)! I like Bamboobies Nipple cream because it is organic and Lanolin-free, but feel free to shop around. You can place it on before breastfeeding and don’t have to worry that you baby is ingesting lanolin into their delicate system.
Nursing Pillow – I recommend nursing pillows for all first-time Moms because they can really ease some weight off from your arms (as your baby gets heavier). I also use them for various exercises that we will discuss throughout the first year, so it is a good investment because it will not just get used for breastfeeding.
Breast Pump: You should be able to receive a breast pump through your insurance 6 weeks Postpartum. This is to encourage breastfeeding to become established, first. Some are able to get one before going into labor, so discuss your options with your Provider and ask about reward programs. An alternative to a breast pump is getting a Haakaa Manual breast pump., This is affordable and might be all you need.
Bibs – Bibs are always a great thing and a necessity when feeding solids to your baby. You can also use them for minor spit-ups before your baby turns 6 months old. I highly recommend any long-sleeved bib set of your choice. There are some cute ones out there and they’re great for keeping your baby’s clothing clean. Just make sure they are waterproof.
(2)Bottle Brushes – You must have these available for cleaning those hard to reach areas. I recommend the Dr. Brown’s bottles (which come with a special brush for the attachment pieces, yes it is annoying, but necessary for avoiding bacteria to grow and affect your baby).
Bottle Sterilizing: There are so many options for sterilizing your baby’s bottles and pacifiers. You can use the sanitize option on your dish washer, but be advised it takes long and uses up more water. Another option is to use microwavable bags, like those offered by Medela to sterilize your baby pacifiers and bottles. There are many choices to choose from, as far as sterilizers go, but if all else fails, you can still go “old school” and add everything into a boiling pot of water and allow to boil for 5 minutes (check with the manufacturer first for time), then wash with soap and water.
Healthcare
(3) Nail Clippers – Keep one in the nursery, one in the bathroom and one in your diaper bag! These little guys tend to get lost and mis-placed so keep some options around for finding one quick!
(2) Baby Thermometers- Keep one in the nursery and one in your diaper bag. If you are limited down to one, just keep track of it for when you need it! I highly recommend forehead thermometers, rectal ones are just too heart-breaking for Mommy and baby, alike. Arm pit thermometers tend not to be very accurate. Forehead ones are great because they are accurate and fast. When a baby is sick, the others are just a nuisance and it is less of a struggle for parents. My recommendation is Braun No Touch Plus Forehead Thermometer NTF3000US, there are also some pacifier ones.
(1-2)First Aid Kits – Again, keep one in your car for emergencies and one in the nursery. Your First Aid Kit should include:
- Medicine Dropper
- Nasal Aspirator
- Petroleum Jelly and gauze for circumcision care
- Saline solution for dry nose or colds (0-6 months)
- Blunt Scissors
- Wipes
- Cotton Balls
Baby Gear
Car Seat-Stroller Combo Set – If you want convenience, go with this combo. Everyone will have their preferences, here is a quick review:
- 3 wheel – This one is great for maneuvering around tight spaces, but it does lack in the storage area (at the bottom).
- 4 wheel – This one I recommend, simply because it is sturdy and less likely to tip over when taking a sharp turn.
- Jogger – This one is great for the Momma that is ready to get back into shape. Always allow 6 weeks before even thinking about going jogging. Your body needs at least that time to heal, but KNOW that it takes one FULL YEAR for your body to recover from pregnancy and labor. This one has great maneuverability and Mommy can keep an eye one baby.
- The Double – This one is for twins, I would just recommend getting one that is not side by side, just to ensure maneuverability in tight spaces. Yes, it will be bulky and heavy, but hey…you carried two at one time!!! That deserves a prize, right there!!!
Baby Swing – Baby swings are a blessing for a Mom that just needs some time to go to the bathroom or take a break! Do not feel guilty about using a swing, while baby is awake. I do recommend baby not using movement in order to fall asleep. We will discuss sleep associations in the first year, but for now, just purchase a swing that can PLUG IN! No more batteries, please!!!
Play Yard/Play Pen – This is also so needed!!! It not only will give Momma a break, but will allow for you to keep an eye on your baby, while your baby learns to balance and stand up. Although I like the versatility for your money of a Pack’n’Play, I do NOT like the fact that when a child loses their balance, they can hit their head pretty hard on the bottom floor board of a Pack’n’Play. If this is you and you want to avoid this, consider purchasing a play pen that includes the floor mats. This one is my favorite recommendation:
Costzon Baby Play Pen Kids Safety Playpen Activity Center with 8 mats included.
Your little angel will be able to be safe, while learning how to balance and play!
High Chair – You will need a high chair closer to the 5 month mark, so that gives you time to purchase one. Your baby will begin solids at 6 months of age and you can finally all sit down together when eating! There are so many to choose from, honestly, go with what meets your family’s needs, but always make sure the baby is buckled and secure. There will be many learning activities in the First Year, so make sure to stay tuned to my blog for that in the future.
Bath Items
Bath Tub – For 0-3 months, make sure that you use a good, safe and reliable bath tub. It should have anti-slippage of some kind and support the baby. My recommendation and favorite right now is the Boon Soak 3-stage baby bath tub. It color changes to let you know when the temperature is right to place the baby in and has great anti-slip bumps that keep your baby from slipping all over the place. Safety first!
(2) Baby Towels – Again, once you use one, you have a clean one for next time, but this is truly not necessary, using a soft towel of your own will do the exact same job.
(8) Baby Wash Cloths – Use them on your baby, as they are more gentle for their sensitive skin.
Baby Shampoo– Keep in mind that your baby is sensitive and just try to get a shampoo that is free of sulfates, formaldehyde, parabens, phosphates, chlorine, dyes or caustics.You can shop around and see which you prefer.
Baby Lotion- Baby lotion is the one substance that will be absorbed into the largest organ of the human body, their skin. I recommend investing in an organic one that is not scented. Even lotions that say they are for “sensitive skin” contain chemicals that are made to be easily absorbed in sensitive skin. A very great alternative is to use extra-virgin coconut oil. It is great for baby skin, safe, smells great, can be used to treat cradle cap and makes your hands super soft!!!
Baby Detergent -Like shampoo, what you wash your baby’s clothing in, matters because they are new to this world and their skin is so delicate. My favorite choice right now is Babyganics. Keep in mind that even some “baby” detergents sold at stores like Wal-mart and Target actually contain chemicals because they are scented. Try to go with a completely organic one, why expose your little one to unnecessary dies and chemicals?
Well this is the end of my list! Babies require so much, don’t they?! It is my hope that you are truly blessed by having guidance throughout your new chapter in life and beautiful journey of parenting. Remember, this is a lot, but there are Baby Showers,
