What Baby Gear Do You Need for Your Newborn?

Welcoming a baby into this world requires more than making sure he or she is healthy in your tummy. At some point, your little love will make his or her way out of your belly and you need to be prepared. This list should help you get all you need to take care of your baby during the early months. As your baby gets older, you will find other items that will make your life easier (like a jumpy seat or an exer-saucer!).

The Nursery

Cradle, bassinet, or crib: If you choose to have your baby sleep in your room at night, a cradle or bassinet is a nice option for the first few months. When the baby gets bigger, you will need to get a crib. When choosing a crib, make sure it meets the latest safety standards and that there are no more than 2 3/8 inches between the slats.
Crib mattress: Unfortunately, most cribs do not come with mattresses so you will need to purchase one. Pick out a mattress that has good back support, is not too soft, and meets all the fire-retardant regulations.
Musical mobile for crib: This isn't essential, but a nice addition to the crib. Find one with the figurines facing down so that baby can see them better.
Dresser: You will need a few drawers to store baby's clothes and toys.
Changing area: This can be on top of a dresser or a separate changing table. It is a good idea to purchase a pad to lay baby on top of when changing. Never take your hand or eyes off baby when changing him or her, especially if your changing area is off the ground; babies can roll off the table at the blink of an eye.
Rocking chair or glider: Although not essential, it's nice to have when feeding baby. Pick one out that has padded arms for extra support and comfort. A footrest adds additional comfort, especially if breastfeeding.
Nightlight: Not essential, but it helps you see during those middle of the night diaper changes and feedings.
Tape or CD player: Lullaby music is a nice way to lull baby into a peaceful sleep or soothe baby when he or she is upset.

Crib Linens

1 quilted mattress pad
2 fitted crib sheets (smaller sizes are sold for cradles, bassinets, or port-a-cribs)
2-4 waterproof mattress pads or waterproof sheets
2 light blankets
1 sleep positioner: This is not essential but it does helps keep baby sleeping on his or her back or side. It is sold in most baby stores.

When making the crib, you have a few options. You may choose to use a waterproof mattress pad on the bottom and put the fitted crib sheet on top of that or you may want to look in to purchasing a waterproof pad/sheet (called sheet-savers) that goes on top of the fitted crib sheet. These can be found in most baby stores and make cleaning up accidents easier since all you have to do is change the top sheet of the crib. If you go this route, be sure to get one that snaps or ties on to the crib railings (you do not want the ones that you just place on top of the fitted sheet - these can increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome).

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