First, congratulations Mama-to-be! One exciting part of the pregnancy journey is gathering together all the necessary things for your new baby. Sometimes it could get overwhelming especially if you’re a new parent. There are a lot of things and different options you could choose from that are easily available in the market or suggested by your family or friends.
Believe me, I’m on the same shoe last year when I had my little girl. With the excitement of having a new baby, I wanted to have everything I could to be prepared when the baby arrives but I ended up having way too much than what I needed during that time.
Babies can be expensive if you don’t know how to budget your money. You don’t have to spend too much on things that you would end up not using. Besides, your newborn only needs basic things such as food, sleep, comfort and most especially love.
Here are the things I considered the most essential and the “must-haves” for my newborn. I hope this will help you in preparing for your new baby.
- 6-10 Onesies (Short & Longsleeve)
- 4-6 Baby Footed Sleepers
- 1-2 Hats
- 4-6 Pairs Socks
- 2-3 Pairs Mittens
- Pants
- Dresser or bins for baby’s clothes
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- Newborn Disposable Diapers (about 2 boxes/packs)
- Disposable Wipes
- Diaper Rash Cream
- OR if you prefer Cloth Diapers/Cloth Wipes (about enough per day like 8-10 diapers)
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- 8-10 Burp Cloths
- Breastfeeding pillow (Optional)
- Breast pump/milk containers
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- 6-8 Bottles with soft nipples (6 ounces)
- 2-4 Bibs
- Bottle brush
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- Crib/Cradle Bassinet
- Firm Crib Mattress
- Waterproof mattress cover
- Fitted Sheets for Crib
- Remember for baby’s safety, it is advisable not to put anything in baby’s bed. No pillows or blankets and no toys.
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- Baby Bath Tub
- 1-2 Hooded Towels
- Baby Wash
- 2-4 Baby Washcloths
- Baby Lotion
- Nail Clipper
- Rubbing alcohol
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- Car Seat
- Stroller/Baby Carrier
- Diaper Bag
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- Digital Thermometer
- Nasal Aspirator
- Pacifier (Optional)
- Some rattles/plush toys
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SAVING MONEY & BUDGETING FOR BABY
BUY SECOND HAND OR USED ITEMS
If you want to save money and be wise on budgeting, you can easily save with some necessities such as clothes and toys. It’s practical to get used ones or second-hand items since your little one will outgrow all these before you know it.
BORROW WHAT YOU CAN
You can borrow other things such as baby toys, high chairs, maternity clothes or baby clothes from your friends or other family members who have kids as well. Borrow what you can.
But on travel and safety, make sure to purchase brand new items such as the car seat. This is very important since you have to assure that the car seat passed all the safety standards, not expired and quality guaranteed.
BREASTFEED
Breastfeeding will save you so much money rather than formula or bottle-feeding. No formula to buy nor feeding bottles. You may need a breast pump and milk containers when you’re a working mom or baby goes to daycare.
USE CLOTH DIAPERS
Not practical but money saver for sure. If you’re on a tight budget this is the way to go. It would be an extra laundry but will surely save you money for other baby necessities.
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