Learn what your baby needs and prepare ahead!

Here are some items to consider purchasing before baby's arrival. Prior to purchasing any of these items, be sure to check the Internet for information on hazard/safety related recalls. You won't waste your money or put your precious baby at risk. Be careful with donated or family heirlooms as they could contain lead-based paint or have other safety concerns. If your budget requires you use a donated furniture item, refinish and amend as necessary for your baby's safety. Also be sure furniture is flame resistant or flame retardant.

Here are some items to consider purchasing:

• Bassinet or cradle
• Crib if you choose not to purchase a bassinet or cradle
• Crib mattress and bumper set
• At least 2 sets of crib sheets (4 would be better)
• Changing table
• Diaper pail (to be used for cloth diapers or for soiled clothing)
• Baby bathtub
• High chair with safety strap (you can postpone this purchase until baby is able to sit without support)
• Stationary baby walker or play center (optional)
• Playpen (optional)
• Rocking chair (optional)
• Automatic stand-alone swing (use when child is old enough to sit up without support)
• 3-4 fitted sheets
• 2 quilted mattress pads
• 2-6 waterproof pads
• 2 crib blankets or comforters
• 1-2 blankets for the carriage or stroller

You don't have to purchase every item listed, but these items will cover the basic necessities:

• 4-6 receiving blankets
• 2-3 pairs of booties or socks
• shoes (optional -- cute, but not necessary until baby is walking)
• 5-7 undershirts
• 6-7 Onesies
• 3-4 stretch suits with feet
• 3-8 night gowns (with drawstring bottoms)
• 1-2 sweaters
• 1-2 hats
• 1-2 sets of baby washcloths and towels (hooded)
• 3-4 dozen newborn diapers (plus 3-4 waterproof pants/4-5 sets diaper pins if using cloth
• diapers)
• 2-4 washable bibs
• 4-6 burp rags (can use cloth diapers for this)

Whether you choose to breast feed or use formula, you will need some of these items:

• Breast pump if breast feeding (manual/electric/battery operated)
• 12 4-8oz nursing bottles (plastic is durable; glass is easier to clean)
• 12 nipples
• 1 set of bottle brush/nipple brushes
• 2-3 pacifiers (dishwasher safe, 1-1/2" wide shield)

You will need some of these items as well:

• At least 1 infant car seat or convertible infant/toddler seat (follow manufacturer's instructions on installation and placement)
• 1 infant carrier
• 1 nasal suction bulb
• 1 humidifier (optional)
• 1 rectal thermometer (glass or digital)
• 1 stroller/carriage/pram (or combination unit)
• 1 Baby Bjorn (front pack for carrying baby up to 5-6 months)
• 1 diaper bag
• 1 calibrated spoon/medicine dropper/syringe (dispensing medicine)
• 1 nursery monitor/intercom

These items will help you child proof your house:

• plastic covers for electric outlets (get enough for every outlet)
• safety latches for cabinets (get enough for bathrooms as well)
• plastic corner guards for furniture edges (only for sharp corners)
• baby gates for stairs
• guards for windows (only if you are above the first floor)
• nonskid backing for rugs

With these items on hand, you'll be prepared to bring your precious bundle of joy home with confidence!