Minimalist Baby Checklist

Are you preparing for the arrival of your newborn?

You must have realized that it's both exciting and taxing at the same time. Especially, when choosing which items you really need to buy.

As a mother myself, I've been through this phase. My baby is now 6 months old. So I thought of sharing my list of essential items with you which you may find helpful as you prepare to bring your newborn home.

For ease, let's look at different phases and the essential items you need to purchase.

Hospital bag:

Now, a couple of weeks before your due date, it's a good idea to pack your hospital bag so you are all ready to go when the time comes. Check with your doctor to see how many nights you expect to be in the hospital. Aside from the personal items and clothing you'll need for yourself, there are a few things you really need to pack for your baby.

Weather-appropriate onesies, and an outfit for them to wear home from the hospital.

Burp cloths and bibs to help clean up the drools and vomit.

Soother- Babies do have a strong sucking reflex and it can help soothe them. Though I personally don't recommend this. I never used it for my baby. But you may choose to use it.

Caps, socks, and mittens, to prevent scratching themselves as some babies are born with big nails and also to keep them warm.

Swaddles and receiving blankets, to wrap them up safe and secure.

I have written an in-depth article on this subject. You will find answers here to all your queries regarding what to pack in a hospital bag for mommy's to be. Don't forget to check it out so you don't miss any essential item.

At home and nursery:

Nursery: One of the most exciting aspects of preparing for your little one's arrival is preparing their nursery. But apart from the theme and cute dresses and obvious items like a crib or a bassinet there are a few practical items you'll need.

But first which one to buy? A crib or a bassinet?

As studies suggest both are considered safe for babies when it comes to sleeping. Where a crib will occupy a larger area in your room the bassinet will come handy in small apartments. Since it's portable it is also a great option for co-sleeping. On the other hand, crib will certainly last longer as your baby will outgrow of bassinet by 3 to 4 months. So make your choice accordingly.

Swaddling. Studies have found that swaddling a baby helps increasing the REM sleep so they sleep longer. As swaddling recreates the womb environment it helps positively in personality development of the baby as the baby now feels safe. It helps the baby in transitioning to the outer world.

There are different types of swaddle wraps available in the market. The traditional wrap, the one that comes with a velcro and swaddle sack.

Having good swaddling blankets is a great investment that later you will thank yourself for.

Clothes: The baby will go through a few changes a day, so having 10 to 15 outfits will help you manage the laundry pile.

Diapers. A changing station provides a safe place to change your baby's diaper. It is a good idea to stock diapers and baby wipes. If you're planning to use nappies then you'll be needing atleast 10 to save yourself from keep doing laundry whole day.

Wipes: I like wipes that are gentle on their skin and are scent free for diaper changes and to help clean up little messes.

A good quality thermometer: It's also a good idea to familiarize yourself with fever temperatures.

Bath time:

You'll want two to three washcloths and baby towels. Once you progress beyond the sponge bath stage, you furthermore may want to think about a baby tub or baby mat to keep the baby secure while bathing.

Outside of the nursery, you will need a safe place to make baby sit such as a bouncy seat or swing.

I also recommend few soft toys in high-contrasting colors to catch their eye.

We also have a little baby gym, and he loves it. It’s a great way to keep the baby engaged. It helps in developing baby’s visual, tactile and auditory senses.

Now, for the initial few months, you will feed your newborn every two to four hours throughout the day, so I highly recommend having a feeding pillow to help ease the stress on your back and make feeding easier and pleasurable experience for both of you.

Whether you decide to breastfeed or bottle feed, you may want to have a supply of bottles and nipples and perhaps some high quality formula.

Bibs and burp cloths are very helpful, because babies often spit up. And I recommend having 10 to 15 burp cloths so you always have a clean one handy.

When you'll plan to step out of the house the first thing you'll need for a baby on the go is a diaper bag. Now, make sure it's easy to clean, with plenty of room and pockets.

Aside from the obvious diapers and wipes, I also recommend stocking your diaper bag with a spare change clothes for your baby, a clean burp cloth and bib, soother, and a few toys.

To complete your on-the-go items, you'll also need a car seat and a stroller. Now, make sure the car seat is installed and checked by a professional before you go ahead to the hospital so you're ready to bring your new baby home.

For the stroller, consider how easy it is to fold and unfold. If you can do this with one-hand, that's the one you want to buy.

Now, there also are different sorts of baby slings and carriers that hold your baby close to your body while giving you free hands and the liberty to maneuver about.

In the end, remember to wash all the fabrics that your baby will come in contact with before they come home. And most of all, get ready to enjoy the new addition to your family.

links for International use:

onesies

burp cloth

pacifiers

mittens socks and cap set