So many expectant mums come across new baby checklists that SWEAR you need over a hundred things for your newborn. Well, it's time to talk about the essentials to help women on a tight budget figure out what they absolutely need to start their new lives with their children!
We got in touch with Mary Oscategui, the author of The Baby Planner Profession: What You Need To Know, and Founder/CEO of the International Maternity & Parenting Institute.
The woman is a baby prep extraordinaire AND she has pretty comforting news for expectant mothers who are stressing about what to buy. "Most new baby check lists can seem very overwhelming and expensive," she says. "The good news is that the essential needs for your baby do not require all that much."
Yes, you heard that correctly. All the supposedly "must-have" items that balloon your newborn budget can be cut down to a simple list that'll guarantee you have everything you need to make the homecoming seamless!
"Your baby's most basic needs will be based on feeding, sleeping, diapering, keeping warm, maintaining health and safety and building a strong bond," continues Mary. As an eco-consultant, she recommends that new mums buy organic and eco-friendly bodywashes and shampoos! Knowing naturalNow check out the new baby checklist that covers all the basics - a perfect starting point for your new arrival.
Bedding
- Co sleeper or bassinet (No matter what you choose, Mary recommends that the baby sleeps in the parents room for safety.)
- Organic fitted sheets
- Breathable blanket
Baby travel
- Carrier, sling/wrap, or stroller
- Car seat (For peace of mind, Mary encourages new parents to "make sure car seat is professionally installed by local police department or car seat installer.")
Clothing
- 2 - 4 receiving blankets
- 2 - 6 sleeping gowns
- 6 - 8 onesies
- 6 - 8 baby t-shirts
- 4 - 6 trousers
- 4 - 8 socks
- 2 - 4 newborn hats
- 4 - 6 legwarmers
- 6 - 8 bibs
- Mittens
If you give birth during the colder months, add 2 - 4 jumpers to this list!
Changing
- Cloth or disposable nappies
- Natural disposable wipes
- Baby changing mat
- Changing bag (for when you are out and about)
- Nappy cream
- Air tight diaper bin
Bathing and Grooming
- 6 - 8 wash cloths
- 2 hooded bath towels
- Ultra-gentle, eco-friendly body wash
- Nail clippers and nail file
- Bath thermometer
Breastfeeding
- 1 - 2 nursing pads
- 1 nursing pillow
- 8 - 12 burp cloths
- Nipple shields
- Organic nipple cream
- Nursing bra
Bottle Feeding
- 6 - 8 glass bottles
- Bottle sterilizer
Essential extras
- 2 - 4 receiving blankets
- 2 - 4 muslin cloths
- 1 baby thermometer
- Gripe water
- Black and white baby book or soft toy
The final word
"Keep in mind that the list may need to be adapted to suit parents unique needs," Mary ends. Add or nix whatever you'd like!
And, yes, we know you're going to pick up cute stuffed animals and charming baby books as you shop but just don't go overboard. Remember - you're giving birth to a human being who will have likes and dislikes even during their first months of being alive! Your newborn might prefer to snuggle your favourite sweater over a life-sized teddy bear, and you'll realize you wasted money on a gigantic toy she won't play with.
As you bond with your newborn, observe their instincts and what they reach out for, so as they grow you'll be able to buy items that they'll actually want and use and save money for that all important university fund!
Get inspired by our baby essentials recommendations:
© 100% non-toxic leather shoes from ShooShoos. So. Freaking. Adorable.
What items did you have to have for your newborn? Tweet us @sofeminineUK!
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