7 Essential Baby Items Every Young Parent Needs
Being a parent is one of the most rewarding yet also one of the most frightening roles in a person’s life, especially for young couples who are expecting their first baby. Being informed is important which is why so many parents-to-be spend a lot of time talking to doctors and reading informative books and blogs, all in hopes that they’ll be ready by the time the baby comes. We know that the parents can be scared, which is why we have taken it upon ourselves to make a list of seven essential items expecting parents might need.
Nursery must-haves
A crib is a must-have that’s for sure, but if you’re not big on letting your baby sleep in the crib at first, a co-sleeper is an alternative. You will also need a mattress for the crib or a co-sleeper, and you might want to do your research because there are many different models on the market. A changing table is also a good idea, even though some parents state that they change the baby’s diaper in pretty much every convenient place. A rocking chair is also a good idea because the rocking movements will soothe the baby and help them sleep without you having to pace the room back and forth for a long time.
Clothes
You probably worry that you’ll need a lot of baby clothes, but it isn’t the case. Babies grow incredibly fast, and before long you’ll be out there buying new clothes because the old onesies and hats don’t fit anymore. When buying clothes, instead of focusing on how adorable they look, you should think about how practical they are. Kimono tops are a good choice because you won’t have to put them on over the baby’s head (this can be a nightmare at times) and the belly button stump will also be free. Footed onesies are also a great choice because you won’t have to think about shirts, socks, and pants – just zip or snap the onesie and you’re done.
Feeding supplies
Depending on whether you’ll be breastfeeding of formula-feeding your baby, there are a few things you need. A good breast pump is necessary in case you’ll be away and want our baby to use breast milk nonetheless, and a nursing pillow will help you and your baby get settled while you’re feeding them. In addition, you can pump your milk before going to bed so you have the ‘meal’ ready when the baby wakes up in the middle of the night and your spouse can feed them. Get about 6 bottles with newborn nipples and be prepared to try different kinds before you find the one that works for your baby.
Cosmetics
Baby’s skin is incredibly gentle, but unfortunately, this means that it’s prone to different rashes and eczema. Having different creams, powders, and ointments at hand is a good idea because you’ll be able to soothe the baby even if they’re uncomfortable. Diaper rashes are going to be pretty common, so it’s best to arm yourself with products to help you battle these problems: diaper rash ointments, baby powder, and wet wipes are lifesavers. You’ll also need a gentle baby shampoo and bath wash, a hair brush with soft bristles, and a couple of hooded towels for bath time.
Stroller
You will soon learn that spending time outside is great not only for you but for your baby too. Spending time in fresh air is going to do you both good, so it’s best to invest in a quality stroller. It’s a good idea to get a stroller that doubles as a baby capsule and a car seat, because that will save you a lot of time and money in the long run. Maxi Cosi strollers are a good choice because their strollers are light and compact, and you get the ones whose seat transforms into a bassinet too. A stroller that’s easy to fold and place in the trunk of your car is always better because you’ll be able to bring it along without much fuss.
Diaper bag
We already mentioned that you’ll be spending a lot of time outside with your baby and you will soon learn that going anywhere takes a lot of preparation. You’ll always have to carry around diapers, baby wipes, pacifiers, a few toys, and a change of clothes just in case, so a diaper bag is a must-have. Fortunately for many moms, today you can find fashionable and cool diaper bags, as well as plenty of gender-neutral ones. It’s always good to choose a bag that can easily be hanged over the back of the stroller because you will soon grow tired of carrying it around.
Baby monitor
Unlike old baby monitors that resembled walkie-taIkie toys, today you can find video baby monitors that are going to make your life much easier. When you know you can keep your eye on your sleepy baby while not necessarily staying in the nursery, you’ll have a peace of mind and much more freedom to move around the house and get something else done. Video monitors will allow you to keep the door to the nursery shut while the baby is sleeping so that the noise coming from the other rooms in the house won’t wake them, and you won’t have to open them every few minutes to check up on the child. As the child grows, this monitor will help you see what they’re up to when they’re not sleeping.
No matter how many books and blogs you read, you’ll never feel quite ready for parenthood. Parenthood is a land unknown for most, but as time goes by, you’ll soon learn a few tricks of your own. By the time your baby is grown, you’ll be in a situation to share your own experience and advice with other young parents-to-be. Children grow fast and time flies when you’re not paying attention, so try to enjoy all aspects of parenthood for as long as possible.