Bringing Home Baby

Gathering all of the supplies needed for a new baby can be a daunting task. There are entire stores devoted to gadgets and textiles that are 'necessary.' Friends and family will undoubtedly have options they are willing to offer, as well. New parents are often inundated with information about the stuff that they will need to have on hand before they bring their newborn babies home from the hospital.

The truth is, however, that the list of necessities is relatively short. There are some items that really are required to care for a baby in the early days of life, but many other items that are pushed on new parents are simply extras. Focusing on the true necessities listed will help those parents keep their minds on the challenges ahead when planning for their impending arrival.

Diapering Supplies

Whether babies are being formula-fed or breast-fed, one thing they all have in common is an abundance of dirty diapers. New parents should plan, then, to have plenty of diapering supplies on hand for those early days. Disposable diapers or cloth diapers are a must-have for anyone with an infant. Baby wipes and diaper cream should also have a place in the nursery.

Basic Clothing

Although everyone loves the sweet dresses and fun outfits that are available for baby boys and girls, babies don't really need those fancy clothes during their first days home from the hospital. Instead new parents should focus on soft, basic clothing like sleepers or bodysuits. During those first, fumbling diaper changes parents don't need to be fussing over extra snaps and bows. Baby will appreciate simply being warm and dry.

Feeding Supplies

Breastfeeding moms don't need a lot of gear to ensure that their babies are healthy. Moms who choose to feed their little ones with formula, however, will need to add some feeding supplies to their list of must-haves. Formula, bottles, and a bottle cleaner will need to appear front and center in the baby's supplies. Bibs may also be helpful in keeping the baby's clothing clean and fresh.

Once these supplies have been gathered, parents-to-be can begin to relax. Whatever the future may hold for them and their baby, they can rest assured that they are prepared to meet the baby's basic needs. Now they can spend their time dreaming of their little one and planning his future.