Getting Ready for Baby: Baby's Layette

Buying for baby can be fun, but it can also be a bit overwhelming. You’ll probably get some things from friends and relatives, especially if you have had a baby shower, but there will probably still be plenty to buy. If you are short on cash you may be able to get hand-me-downs from friends with older babies. Garage sales and thrift stores are also good places to get inexpensive baby clothes. Generally, babies outgrow their clothes before they get too worn, so you can sometimes get things that look new, even if they aren’t. Another thing you may want to consider is the kind of fabric you want next to baby’s skin. Some moms prefer to go with all natural materials like cotton, or even organic cotton.

Here is a check list to consider when buying things for baby:

First and Foremost

• Car seat (learn how to use it and bring it to the hospital)

Clothes and Blankets

• A really cute “take home” outfit
• 4-5 receiving blankets
• 5-10 one–piece outfits (long or short sleeved)
• 5-7 undershirts that snap at the bottom (sometimes called onesies)
• 5-6 sleeping gowns
• 3-6 pairs socks or booties
• 2+ hats – weather appropriate

Other Items

• Diaper pail and liners
• At least 4 dozen newborn diapers
• 6-9 newborn diaper covers if not using disposables
• Baby wipes
• Diaper rash ointment
• Baby powder
• Baby lotion
• 3-4 baby wash clothes
• 2-3 hooded baby bath towels
• Baby shampoo
• Baby soap
• Baby tub
• Baby nail clippers
• Baby comb and brush
• Digital thermometer
• 2-3 fitted sheets for crib or bassinette
• 2-3 rubber pads for under the sheets
• Crib/bassinette blankets or quilts
• 5-8 bottles if you are bottle feeding
• 5-6 burp clothes if not using cloth diapers
• Diaper bag

Not Essential, but Nice to Have

• Stroller (might come with your car seat)
• Baby carrier – sling, pouch, wrap etc.
• Baby swing or bouncer
• Mobile for over the crib
• Breast pump
• Nipple cream
• Breastfeeding pillow
• Baby monitor
• Lullaby CD and player
• Baby Memory Book

Remember to make sure bigger items like car seats and baby swings are undamaged and have not been recalled. If you are on bed rest or just don’t have the energy to shop, use the internet and get your baby’s things delivered to your door.

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