2 minute read
Preparing for Baby
A PURCHASING GUIDE FOR EXPECTING PARENTS
Shopping for a newborn is exciting but the amount of stuff a baby needs can also be overwhelming. To help decide what items you can forget about, and which are the essentials you can’t live without, we've compiled a list of all the baby must-haves.
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THE NURSERY
COT OR BASSINETTE/CRADLE If you want to keep baby in your room with you for the first few weeks, a bassinette or cradle can be useful, but they are quickly outgrown so consider if you can do without it. The cot should be functional and safe. Go for quality in a timeless design you love, particularly if you are planning more children. All new products have to comply with Australian safety standards but be careful if buying used. Bumpers, quilts and pillows are a safety hazard. Visit KidsafeSA for more information.
CHANGE TABLE Some parents swear by these, others are happier using a bed or the floor. If it's raised, ensure it's both safe for baby and gentle on your back. The change mat should have sides to stop baby rolling and a wipeable surface.
DECOR ITEMS It can be easy to go overboard decorating the nursery but remember that babies turn into kids who turn into teenagers, so stick to neutral walls and floors and add personality with easily changeable items such as linens and removeable wall stickers.
NURSERY CHECKLIST
Bassinet, cradle or cot
Clean, firm, well-fitting mattress
Waterproof sheet or washable protector
At least 2 sets of sheets
Several soft, light blankets or wraps
Change table and/or changing mat
Night light
Baby monitor
Comfy chair
Blackout blind
Artwork/decorative items
Mobile or soothing CDs
BATH TIME
New babies don't need bathing every day although many parents like to give a bath each evening as part of the bedtime routine. The laundry trough or bathroom basin is a good option in the early days. Baby should have his or her own soft towels and washcloths.
BATH TIME CHECKLIST
Something to bathe baby in
Soft towels
Soft washcloths
Baby wash/soap/shampoo
Baby comb and brush
Unscented baby wipes
Cotton wool balls
Cotton buds
Safety nail scissors or clippers
Gentle laundry detergent
Thermometer
Safety products such as tap cover
CLOTHES
It doesn’t get much cuter than tiny baby clothes but make sure you choose practical, comfortable items that are easy to put on and take off and remember that most babies grow out of the 0000 size very quickly!
CLOTHING CHECKLIST
Several onesies/rompers
Lots of undershirts/singlets/bodysuits
One special outfit
Lots of socks or booties
Mittens
Baby wraps, muslins and bunny rugs
Winter baby:
A couple of warm sleeping bags
Front buttoning jackets or cardigans
Soft beanie that covers ears
Summer baby:
Broad-brimmed sunhat
TRAVEL
CAR RESTRAINT You are required by law to use a properly fitted car safety restraint that meets the Australian Standard. It's sensible to have this professionally fitted well before baby is born. You can hire or buy an approved seat from Red Cross Baby Seats.
PRAM There are many considerations when it comes to prams. Do you want a lightweight foldable one you can chuck in the boot or will you be using it for jogging? Functionality is key and they are not cheap so do your research first.
NAPPY BAG Realistically, the nappy bag might replace your handbag for a while, so pick one you like the look of with lots of storage.
TRAVEL CHECKLIST
Car restraint
Pram
Pram liner and sun/rain cover
Baby sling/carrier
Baby on board sign
Portacot
NAPPY BAG CHECKLIST
Nappy bag
Nappies
Hand sanitiser
Unscented wipes
Scented nappy bags
Change of clothes for baby
Burp cloth/bibs
FEEDING
FEEDING CHECKLIST
Maternity bras
Nursing pads
Feeding pillow or wedge
Bibs/Burp cloths
Bottle feeding:
Bottles and age appropriate teats
Formula
Steriliser
Bottle brush
Breast feeding:
Breast Pump (optional)
Nipple balm
