Starting a family? This is an incredibly exciting time and the start of a new chapter in your life. It can also be a stressful and nervy time and you will want to make sure that you are prepared by having everything that you need before your bundle of joy arrives. Here are 10 essentials to have before having a baby.
- Crib
Obviously, the baby needs somewhere safe and comfortable to sleep so you will want to get a high-quality crib well in advance (you could ask around or buy-second hand).
- Diapers
You certainly do not want to run out of diapers and you will be amazed at just how many they get through! This is why you should stockpile in advance so that you are well prepared!
- Swaddle Bags
Swaddle bags are a great way to make your baby more comfortable and can make them feel calm by mimicking touch. This could improve their sleep, which in turn, will help yours!
- Baby Clothes
You cannot have enough baby clothes and it is a good idea to buy a few sizes so that you are sorted for the first year or so.
You will want a car seat so that you can safely take your baby in the car with you. You may also want to consider the car that you drive and take out a lease on a family car that will suit your lifestyle at this time.
- Changing Mat
You will need to be able to change your baby on the go and multiple times a day, so having a decent changing mat is key and will make changing comfortable for your baby and easier for you.
- Pushchair
You do not want to have to carry your baby everywhere and a pushchair can make trips out much easier. You will want to find a decent pushchair that is easy to assemble and take down and has plenty of extra storage!
- Bathing Products
It is important to have proper baby bathing products so that you can wash them gently. This will include items like baby shampoo and body wash, a soft brush, cotton swabs, baby nail clippers and an infant bathing tub.
- Baby Toys
Having multiple toy options is helpful as you will find that this can keep them entertained and they are likely to have favourites that can help soothe them.
- Breast Pump
A breast pump is incredibly useful as you can pump breast milk to then feed from a bottle and this can make a big difference as you can give your baby to your partner or a loved one to feed as well as feed them while on the move.
These are 10 essentials that you want to make sure that you have before your baby arrives and changes your life forever!