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What Do I Need For My Newborn?
When preparing for your first
baby you are no doubt wanting to know the essential items that are
required to have ready when bringing baby home. Despite all the
advertising you require only a few basic items. You will also probably
receive lots of baby clothes as gifts once the baby is born. Remember
that babies grow quickly and will outgrow their clothes before they
wear them out. You will quite possibly be changing baby's clothing
several times a day so make sure outfits are easy to get on and
off and can open easily for changing nappies. You will want soft,
comfortable clothing with no irritating tags or seams.
Singlets and/or Bodysuits
The climate when you bring baby home will decide whether you place
baby in a Singlet or Bodysuit. You will need about six of these.
All-In-One Outfits
All-In-One outfits make dressing baby much simpler and you will
need at least six outfits to start with. Ensure that all outfits
have a wide head opening and have openings at the crotch to make
changing baby easier. Two piece outfits may look cute but the top
can ride up and become uncomfortable to wear. Do not purchase anything
with a hood as babies should not sleep with anything on their heads
due to the risk of SIDS and a hood can be quite bulky and uncomfortable
when lying on it. Outfits with feet in them are quite practical
as you will not have the need for booties or socks that may fall
off.
Socks and Booties
For outfits that do not have feet, socks or booties will keep baby's
feet warm.
Hat or Bonnet
When going out and about a broad brimmed hat in summer or a soft,
warm hat that covers the ears in winter will be just the thing.
You only need one of these and never sleep baby in a hat or bonnet
as baby may become overheated and become a risk for SIDS.
Nightgowns
Nightgowns that opens at the bottom are good when changing nappies
at night and will ensure that the nightgown will not ride up and
leave baby's legs and body cold. However, a very soft all in one
outfit will do just as nicely when baby is a newborn and will save
on additional clothing.
Nappies
Cloth or disposable are a very personal choice. If you are using
cloth nappies you will need about twenty nappies as well as two
to three nappy fasteners and five pairs of overpants.
Wraps
Newborn babies love to be wrapped and Muslin gives the baby security
but still allows freedom of movement. Muslin is especially ideal
for summer as it is lightweight. You will need two to three wraps
in either Muslin or a lightweight cotton or wool fabric which breathes.
Powders and Creams
Powder and creams are not necessary unless your baby suffers from
nappy rash. You will find that baby is less prone to nappy rash
if a good quality disposable nappy is used. So don't stock up on
tubs of cream and bottles of powder, you may never need them occasionally.
Babies love a massage and a massage oil made from natural products
is gentle on baby's soft skin. A soap free baby wash for baby's
bath will also be needed.
Baby Wipes
Baby wipes are an easy way of cleaning baby's bottom, however, you
do not need to go to the expense of purchasing the prepared wipes
from the supermarket. A very soft damp cloth will do the trick just
as well and can be washed and used over and over again.
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