What You Really Need to Have Ready to Bring Home Baby

You are sitting in front of your computer trying to put your baby registry together.  You don’t even know where to start.  There are so many baby products but what do you really need?

Let us help you.

Here is a list of some things we think you should have to get you started.  Babies really don’t need a lot so start with the basics and add as you need.

Diapers

• Newborn babies go through about 8 diapers a day, which equates to:
  • Approx 250 newborn diapers
    • Usually in newborn size for a month or less
  • Approx 650-700 size 1 diapers
    • Usually in size 1 for 3 months

Formula

For babies not being fed human breast milk, liquid infant formula and powdered infant formula are the recommended alternatives. Ready to feed (liquid formula) is suggested for the first couple of weeks or longer if baby is immunocompromised. Steps for safe preparation and handling can be found through Health Canada.

Equipment

• Car seat
• Bottles small base nipple not broad based nipple
• White noise machine
• Bassinet or something for baby to sleep
• 2 sets of fitted crib sheets
• Breast pump (optional)
• Baby bathtub (optional)
• Vibrating chair (optional)

Clothing and Linen (amount depends on how often you want to do laundry)

• Onesies (2-3 per day)
• Sleepers (2-3 per day)
• Hats (2-3)
  • Do not need to wear hats inside the house
  • Need to bring 2-3 to the hospital
• Blankets
  • large 2-3 pkgs of 3
  • Small receiving blankets 2-3 pkgs

• Swaddle sack
  • 2-3

• Baby towels
  • 2

• Baby cloths
  • 1 pkg

Pharmacy items

• Olive oil for first bowel movements (meconium)
• Zinc based diaper rash cream
• Baby shampoo
• Baby body lotion
• Digital thermometer
• Baby Tylenol

For Mom

• Adult diapers
• Overnight pads (not the brand always due to the plastic overlay)
• Nursing bra (2-3)
• Nursing pad
• Button up pyjamas
• Peri bottle
• Extra strength Tylenol
• Extra strength Advil
• Sitz bath (optional )

Doula

Bringing home baby can be overwhelming but Doulas can help!

• Postpartum Doulas can support you day and night helping establish routines, education and help you get some rest
• Welcome Home support for the first 18 hours arriving home from the hospital. This is perfect to help you rest and start off on the right track with consecutive support

Always remember what’s most important to your baby is you!