Planning for a baby is exciting! It starts with a pregnancy announcement and is followed by maternity photos, decorating the nursery, choosing the perfect name and being showered with gifts.
But the endless number of items available can become overwhelming. And you may find yourself registering for something simply because it’s pretty clever or just pretty. But how do you know if you need it and if you’ll actually use it?
While there are many fun and eye-catching items on the market, you should focus on what’s safe according to Safe Kids and the American Academy of Pediatrics standards, said Renee McCabe, injury prevention and SafeKids coordinator at the Children’s Hospital of Georgia at Augusta University.
While choosing which brand or color you want can become mind-boggling, McCabe said, you should focus on the basic necessities. Here is a list of the most important items you’ll need for your new bundle of joy.
Everyday
- Crib with a firm mattress and fitted sheet
- Diapers
- Wipes
- No scratch mittens
- Onesies
- Burp cloths
- LED night light
- Sleep sack
- Sound machine
Feeding
- Bottles
- Bottle sterilizer
- One-piece pacifiers
- High chair or space saver booster seat
- Bibs
Health
- Thermometer
- Health care kit
- Safety nail clipper
- Nasal aspirator
- Humidifier
Travel
- Car seat
- Stroller
- Pack ‘n play
Bath time
- Bath mat
- Cradle tub
- Faucet guard
- Bathtub kneeler
- Bath thermometer
Safety
- Baby gate(s)
- Secure latches for cabinets
- Stove knob covers
- Power strip covers
- Self-closing outlet covers
- Corner guards
- Door stopper
- Toilet seat lid lock
- TV anchors
- Secure mount deadbolt lock
- Tip resistant furniture bracket
- Sliding windows/door lock
While this may seem like an extensive list, you can never be too prepared or too safe for your new bundle of joy.
