Preparing For Your Baby's Arrival

There's so much to think about when expecting a new member of the family. It can be hectic trying to prepare, so here is a list of some of the essential clothing and baby toiletries you'll need in the first weeks.

• Baby crib, mattress, bedding, and bassinet/co-sleeper (if desired)
• Infant car seat and newborn head support
• Dresser, changing table, and changing pad
• 4-6 receiving blankets for swaddling
• 6-8 onesies (baby underwear)
• 4-8 sleep suits
• 2-4 pairs of bootees/socks
• 1-2 outdoor hats
• 2-3 large packs of newborn-sized diapers
• Baby wipes
• Diaper rash ointment
• Diaper pail
• Infant nail clippers
• Soft hair brush
• Baby lotion
• Baby body wash/shampoo
• 3-6 washcloths
• 2-4 hooded towels
• 2-4 bottles and nipples/collars
• Breast pump and nursing pillow (if planning to breastfeed)
• Milk formula (if not planning to breastfeed)
• 2-4 bibs
• 2-4 burp cloths
• 2-4 pacifiers (if desired)
• Alcohol swabs (to clean umbilical cord area)

This is just a short list of all the things expecting mothers will be needing, but ask other mothers and have them advise on other essentials you'll need for the first few weeks. Having these items ready in your home will help prepare you for your new addition to the family.