What to Buy
When it comes to preparing for your first baby there is a
fair amount on your list to buy, and things can be expensive if you
don't shop around. Babies grow fast, so it's better to buy bigger
for baby to grow into and so your baby doesn't over heat from
clothes sticking to him/her. It's wise to accept 'hand-me-down's'
from friends and family. Often their baby isn't in the clothes long
enough to really wear them out or get them dirty because they are
growing so fast. It will help save money as well to use on other
baby accessories you will need.
Here's a list of things you might want to consider buying to
prepare for your new baby.
Clothes
Fabrics should be soft, machine washable and preferrably
cotton rather than synthetic which can irritate your babys
skin.
• 6 stretch suits
• 6 cotton vests (with wide or envelope neck)
• 2 cardigans
• 1/2 loose jumpers
• Socks
• Booties
• 1-2 hats (bonnet and sunhat)
• warm jumper for winter
• light t-shirts for summer
• scratch mittens
• plastic pants
• bibs
For the Bed and Bedroom
• A bassinet or cot
• A new baby mattress
• Fitted sheets
• Blankets (maybe a comfort blankie)
• Changing table (optional)
For Changing Nappies
• Nappies (either fabric or disposable)
• If you're using disposable nappies you may want a disposal
bin
• Nappy sacks
• Changing mat
• Cotton Wool
• Wet wipes of some sort or a wet cloth in a plastic bag
• Nappy lotion/baby oil
• Barrier cream
• Two nappy buckets for fabric nappies
• Saftey pins for fabric nappies
For Feeding Baby
• 3 Nursing bras
• Breast pads
• Breast pump/expresser
• Bottles (with teats and covers)
• A sterilising kit
• Bottle Brush
• If you are not breastfeeding you will need baby formula
For Bathing Baby
• Towels
• Baby Bath or large plastic bowl
• Soft face clothes and sponges
• Baby shampoo and soap
Mobility and Accessories
• Baby changing bag
• Pram
• Car seat (you must have one to bring baby home, you can hire
them through plunket)
• Baby carrier/sling
• Toys - lightweight colourful toys that can't be swallowed or
hurt baby
It's a good idea to shop around for prices and space your
shopping over a period of time so you don't exhaust yourself. Enjoy
this time and soak in the memories!