Anna's New Parent Pages

What You Really Need for Baby (US Version)

"All a baby really needs is a mothers arms, a mothers breasts and a mothers love."

The Newborn

  • Stroller or baby carriage. Preferably lightweight and easily folded to get in the car or even on the bus. Must be labelled as "suitable from birth".
  • Stroller basket, if one not supplied.
  • Stroller rain cover.
  • Stroller sun-shade, in summer.
  • First stage, rear-facing car seat.
  • Bassinet or Moses basket, as newborns like a confined space to sleep in.
  • 3 small blankets of open-weave material suitable for newborn babies. Cotton in summer, acrylic in winter.
  • A comforter or crochet blanket for going in the baby carriage etc. that folds up small.
  • Mattress for bassinet or Moses basket. Preferably new.
  • 3 cotton bassinet sheets or large pillow cases to cover mattress.
  • Stand for bassinet or Moses basket (optional - a table can be used).
  • 1 dozen birdseye diapers (for mopping up, large bibs for toddlers, spit cloths, as anti-vomit covers under the baby's head, and 101 other uses)
  • 1 diaper pail with lid and diaper sanitising solution (even if not using cloth diapers) - baby poo gets on everything. 2 pails at least if you are using cloth diapers.
  • One large laundry basket.
  • 1 dozen cloth diapers (if you are intending on using them). A few old cloth diapers for emergencies even if you are not intending on using them properly.
  • Half dozen medium sized rubber pants or diaper wraps, if you are using cloth diapers (the newborn size are often too small), if not using "all-in-one" diapers. I can recommend "Elliepants" covers, from the Ellie Nappy Co. in UK (tel: +44 151 2005012), which you use with folded up terry cloth squares or with any pre-fold, and no pins!
  • 1 packet of "mini" sized disposable diapers (newborn size are often too small).
  • 1 packet of diaper disposal sacks.
  • 1 box of baby wipes suitable for newborns.
  • I roll of cotton wool.
  • 1 jar of diaper rash cream (to be used very sparingly).
  • 1 box of disposable, one-way diaper liners, suitable for cloth diapers or disposables.
  • 6 newborn size sleepsuits plus 6 0-3 months size sleepsuits (for big newborns).
  • 6 newborn size bodysuits with poppers under the crotch plus 6 1-3 months size bodysuits for bigger newborns.
  • 3 cardigans.
  • 3 pairs of newborn size socks.
  • Bonnet (winter) or sun-hat (summer).
  • Pair of mittens (winter)
  • 6 velcro-fastened bibs (not tie-ons as baby can choke on them if left unattended).
  • Musical mobile to go over the cot.
  • sterilizing fluid (for wiping down things etc.)
  • Good sling - the Snugli type front-loaders are killers on your back. A better style resembles the one I am wearing Emma in, in the photograph above, the "Sling-Easy". They are generally obtained by mail-order, with adverts often appearing in parenting magazines. They cost, but they are usually suitable up to 35lbs (toddlers need a lot of carrying). They are easy to get in and out of and they make it much easier to get out and about than a stroller (I am on a train in the photo). They are the only cure for colic, clingy babies and being embarassed about breastfeeding in public. An essential
  • 2 towels exclusively for the baby's use.
  • 2 wash cloths for the baby's use.
  • A small plastic bowl for doing "bed baths" and washing the baby's face.
  • Large paper tissues (lots).
  • Baby changing pad.
  • Baby bubble bath/shampoo. Use sparingly and go for hypoallergenic brands.
  • Diaper bag with zip-up pocket for personal items, purse etc. and fold-up changing pad.  

For You

  • 1 dozen disposable underpants.
  • 3 packets of over-night, super-plus or maternity sanitary pads.
  • A shower to wash your "bits" under every couple of hours plus a hair drier with a warm setting to dry yourself afterwards.
  • 1 box of breast-pads, regardless of how you are feeding.
  • Homeopathic arnica tablets (to heal bruising).
  • Valley" cushion for pernineal soreness (modern version of the old rubber ring cushion).
  • Tylenol (for after pains).
  • 3 nursing bras (if breastfeeding).
  • Single-handed breast-pump for occasional use or relieving engorgement (electric ones can be hired from La Leche League).
  • The telephone number of your nearest La Leche League breastfeeing counsellor or Lactation Consultant.
  • Lots of "TV dinners" or ready prepared food in the freezer.
  • Snacks for fridge attacks (breastfeeding makes you hungry but you'll be busy).
  • Cordless phone 

The Older Baby

  • High chair or low chair with integral tray.
  • High chair inset (to keep smaller sitting baby in the chair).
  • 2 harnesses to strap baby in highchair and in pushchair (to be used as reins later on).
  • Large bibs.
  • Plastic mat to go under high-chair.
  • 3 plastic bowls (picnic type).
  • 6 plastic weaning spoons.
  • 3 plastic sippy cups with sealable tops.
  • Hand-held blender (for making baby food from your dinner).
  • Simple, attractive toys (Rattles, activity center, teething rings).
  • Non-slip bath mat.
  • Umbrella stroller with rain-cover.
  • "Toy tie" to keep rattle attached to buggy.
  • Travel crib/play pen.

Compiled by Anna Hayward (c) 1996.
Disclaimer: This document has not been compiled by a medical professional. Any opinions expressed are personal and should not be construed as medical advice. I am not a representative of any of the companies discussed, nor do I receive any form of commission.