New Baby Checklist - 18 top items you need to consider when welcoming a new baby
Here are the Top 18 items you need to consider when welcoming a new baby into your family PLUS 5 things you probably don't need.
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As a newborn photographer & mother of two, based in the picturesque countryside of Victoria, Australia, l've had the joy of capturing those precious early moments of countless little ones.
One thing I've learned is that preparing for a new arrival involves more than just setting up the nursery. There is so much to get organised & who new someone so little needed so many things! I’m sure you will receive lots of gifts for baby, but also things you will need to consider organising before baby arrives.
Here are the top 18 items to organise before your baby is born. You can also refer to your checklist below & print it out for handy reference.
1. Nappies: Whether you go for disposable or modern cloth, stock up! Babies go through a lot of these.
2. Baby Wipes: Gentle, unscented wipes are a must for nappy changes and quick clean-ups. You’ll find so many uses for these!
3. Onesies and Bodysuits: These are your baby's everyday wear. Look for soft, breathable fabrics with zippers, as you don’t want to be doing up press studs in the middle of the night.
4. Swaddle Blankets: Babies love to be swaddled for comfort and security. It makes them feel like they are back in the womb & helps control their startle reflex. You can buy them in light muslin for summer or flannelette/cotton for winter.
5. Breast Pump: If you're planning to breastfeed and occasionally pump, a good breast pump can be invaluable. You may even be able to hire or borrow one until you decide if it’s worth investing in a good one. Haakaa’s are also an easy way to express on a smaller scale. Don’t forget the breast pads to pop in your bra to catch any leaks. Some people also like to have formula on hand in case of slow milk coming in or other complications.
6. Baby Bathtub: Bathing a newborn can be nerve-wracking, but a small, contoured baby bathtub makes it much easier.
7. Nappy Bag: A well-equipped nappy bag makes outings with your baby much smoother. Make sure it's spacious and has compartments for organisation.
8. Baby Thermometer: Fevers can be scary, so having a thermometer on hand to monitor your baby's temperature is essential. It’s worth investing in a good one, so you can get a reading quickly & easily. You can also purchase pre-prepared first aid kits full of everything you will need, including a Thermometer from Rhythm First Aid.
9. Infant Car Seat: Make sure you have a properly installed infant car seat before bringing your baby home from the hospital. Many shops offer this service when you purchase a baby seat from them.
10. Baby Clothes in Various Sizes: Babies go through a lot of clothing in a day! Bibs can help protect clothing from little spit ups, but poo/wee explosions can happen frequently, so it’s best to be prepared. You can never be sure of babies size until after they are born, so have a range of clothing sizes on hand.
11. Burp Cloths: Babies are messy eaters (and burpers). Keep plenty of burp cloths nearby to clean up spills and spit-up.
12. Nursing Pillow (if breastfeeding): A good nursing pillow can make breastfeeding much more comfortable for both you and your baby.
13. Baby Nail Clippers: Baby nails can grow surprisingly fast and sharp. Trim them regularly to prevent scratching. Specialised baby nail clippers make the job so much easier!
14. Pacifiers: Some babies find comfort in pacifiers. Have a few on hand to see if they help soothe your little one.
15. Changing Mat/Table: Make nappy changes more comfortable for your baby (and you) with a padded changing mat. You can use this on the floor or have a dedicated change table.
16. Cot or Bassinet: Choosing a safe bassinet or cot for babies arrival is a must. Do your research & choose one that suits you. Sidecar bassinets make night times much easier for the first few months.
17. Baby carrier: A forward facing baby carrier makes life so much easier with a fussy baby, allowing you to still do a few jobs while keeping baby close. Look for ones with a newborn insert and good support for legs & hips. You can even learn to breastfeed in them!
18. Last but not least, book in your newborn photo shoot in your second trimester. You don’t want to miss out on capturing this precious, fleeting time in the haze of motherhood.
PLUS, Here are five things that you probably don’t need when buying for your newborn:
1.Baby Shoes: As adorable as those tiny shoes are, newborns don't need them. They're not walking yet & kick off any shoe or sock put on their feet! I speak from experience. So save your money for when they start toddling around.
2. Expensive Baby Clothes: While it's tempting to splurge on designer baby outfits, remember that babies grow incredibly fast. Opt for affordable, practical clothing that's easy to wash and comfortable for your little one.
3. Elaborate Nursery Decorations: Your baby won't care about an intricately themed nursery. Keep it simple and safe with the essentials like a cot, changing table, and a comfortable chair for feeding and cuddling. Recommendations in Australia are to have your baby in your room for the first 6 months.
4. Baby Food Processor: While making your own baby food can be a great option, you don't necessarily need a dedicated baby food processor. A regular blender or food processor works just fine for pureeing fruits and veggies.
5. Multiple High-Tech Baby Gadgets: It's easy to get caught up in the latest baby gadgets, but many of them are unnecessary. Stick to the basics like a reliable stroller, car seat, and bassinet. You'll save money and avoid cluttering your home with gadgets you don't really need.
Remember, the most important thing for your newborn is love, care, and attention, not expensive gadgets or designer clothes. Choose which you buy new & which ones you can save on by buying second hand. Don’t forget to look for items from a smoke free home if buying second hand. So many items for newborns are used but a few times before they grow out of them.
Preparing for a new baby can feel overwhelming at times, but remember to take it one step at a time and enjoy the journey.
Before you know it, you'll be holding your little one in your arms, cherishing every moment together.
Download your NEWBORN BABY READY CHECKLIST You can print it out or keep it handy on your phone. I hope it helps in the journey to parenthood.
From one parent to another, I wish you all the best on this incredible adventure that is parenthood xx
I hope you enjoyed reading this blog post. If you are lucky enough to be pregnant, check out my Maternity & Newborn photography, click here to see my portfolio of newborn images & here for my maternity images Click here. From Ballarat's best loved newborn & maternity photographer.
