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Here is a list of what you really need and what you can live without.
1. Baby Crib: You will need a solid crib. Almost every crib today is adjustable to two levels. One level is higher for the infant, you do not have to bend down to put the child to bed. The other level is lower for the older baby who can sit or stand up, you do not want them flipping over the edge. Bassinets are a waste of money. Most babies only fit in them for a few months at the most.
2. Ignore changing tables. Most infants can wiggle themselves right off them and that is a long fall. The absolute safest place to change a diaper is on the floor. Throw down a towel and place the baby on the floor. Saves the money and space of a changing table.
3. Diapers: Stock up early, but avoid the newborn diapers. They tend to fit really tiny infants best. You do not want to have a 10 pound baby (happened to me) and have packages of diapers that were never used and the receipts for returns were long gone. Smalls work just as well and fit a larger weight range. Store brand diapers tend to be useless, they leak and most babies get rashes easily in them. Fitti and Dryper make very affordable diapers that work very well.
4. Baby Swing: Worth its weight in gold! Get a swing with a good sturdy bottom. You have no idea how tiring it can be rocking and moving with an infant all day and night long. The swing gives you a much needed break.
5. Playpen: If you can afford the fold up travel kind, they are great for travelling. No renting a crib at motels or having to share a bed at other's houses. When babies become mobile, they can get into all kinds of trouble. Sometimes you have other things to do (cooking dinner) and you just cannot keep an eye on a baby at every moment. A playpen comes in very handy.
6. Car seat: A must for every baby and required by law in all states. They have a variety of them now. Check Consumer Reports for the best and safest seats.
7. Clothing: You will need plenty of clothing for the first few months. Expect at least 3 outfit changes a day from diaper leaks, drool or spit-up. Outfits with snaps at the legs are the best. You do not have to dress and undress the baby during the diaper change. Just snap the pant legs and fold the outfit away from the diaper area.
8. Cloth Diapers or small towels: They are a must for baby spit-up. Every baby spits-up after a feeding. It is surprising the amount that comes out a little one. You need the protection for your clothing.
9. Toys: Babies respond best to the bright colors for development, especially red, white and black. Lots of infant toys are now incorporating these colors. A rattle, ball and a mirror will keep a baby occupied for some time.
10. Dresser: You will need a dresser to store clothes, toys and diapers. A dresser with a few drawers and a cupboard on the side works best.
Those are the base items you will need. The others are a waste of money. More than anything, an infant wants your time and love. What you have bought for it mean nothing.
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