First-time parents are often overwhelmed by the sheer number of things they need to buy for their child. A baby shower is a great time to gather basic equipment, but there will be plenty of other baby purchases to make over the first few months.
For this reason, it is important to have a list of essentials, alerting you what to keep in mind when shopping.
Here are some of the top items first-time parents will need.
1. Diapers
While your friends might show up with a gift basket of diapers, you will eventually want to purchase others with time. It is best to buy the right size to fit your baby better.
Many parents prefer cloth diapering because they are more environmentally friendly and healthier for your child’s skin. However, if you decide to use a disposable diaper, the more expensive, the better because some of the cheaper brands may contain ingredients that could be harmful to your child.
Regardless of your choice, these products must have comfortable fasteners. This will prevent leakage.
2. Baby Carrier
Whether you choose a sling or a wrap-style carrier, it is important that your child feel secure while being carried. The most important feature to look for in any carrier is one that fits your baby well.
One of the benefits of a Sunveno baby carrier is that you can keep your baby close to you while you do light housework or go shopping. The baby will also have ample opportunity for visual stimulation with this carrier.
3. Crib
The baby’s crib should be sturdy and safe. For a toddler bed, ensure you provide them with a full-size bed frame so they can easily pass through stages of growth.
If you want an indoor play area for your little one, consider buying an indoor crib that can convert into an outdoor playpen when they grow older. Another option is to buy some new nursery furniture and decorate your child’s nursery with their furniture.
4. Feeding Gear
As with any new item, the price of the feeding items may vary. Fortunately, many feeding gears are available, and they are fairly inexpensive.
If you’re interested in purchasing a breast pump, you’ll most likely need to buy one with additional items that you will also use. This includes bottles and storage bags.
For bottles, it’s also important to look at the nipple shape for your child’s age because many different brands are available.
To avoid wasting money on various bottles, buy an item you can use with all your bottles. Many brands offer these accessories, and they can save you a lot of money.
5. Soothing Items
Maybe your child is fussy, they are feeling overwhelmed, or it’s a combination of the two. At some point, you’ll want to try to calm your child.
A good idea for this would be an item that makes a little noise, thus catching their attention. You could also use some items such as pacifier clips or pacifiers made specifically for breastfeeding babies.
6. Bath-Time Essentials
You’ll want to look at your bathing facilities and decide what you will use. Some essentials include shampoo, conditioner, a baby bubble bath, soft washcloths, washcloths with handles, and a baby bathtub.
Finding a bathtub that is safe for your child’s size is important because some might be too big for them. Also, when buying baby shampoo, be sure to check the ingredients. Many contain chemicals that could be harmful to your child’s health.
Conclusion
These are some of the top items that all parents need, but first-time parents need to be especially aware of. Therefore, you should purchase everything recommended for your child on this list to be fully prepared.