What do you need right in the beginning

I went through my shower stuff - geez I got so many clothes! But I am going to head out to Babies R Us today for stuff I didnt' get and maybe to return some of the outfits. So here is the question - in a nutshell for the newer mommies who can still remember what they are using right now...Michelle, JennRenee, Deb, Stacey -

What do I need right off the bat. It would be really helpful - otherwise I am going to stand there stupid today and waste time! And please let me know if there is anything on my 'think I need' list that I can ex off for the immediate time being.

Things I got that I know I need now:
bassinet
receiving blankets
bibs, socks, booties
infant t-shirts
infant car seat
stroller
bunting
bottles (though who knows how this will turn out - I dont' know if I'll need them with the BFing, which ones I need..I got a Playtex starter kit from a friend. I guess that is good for now)


What I Know I need:
bassinet sheets
a couple of blankets
onesies (I assume I buy long sleeve ones) how many do I need?
changing table pad
medical kit (thermometer, all that stuff)
bibs, burp cloths
diapers
bundle me
baby bjorn

Also, I got no bath items. Should I pick up the bathtub I registered for? And what products do I need like powders and stuff like that for changing and cleaning?

Any input would be greatly appreciated. I don't want to go nuts, and I am going to hold off on things like the high chair, playard, etc for a couple of months. I think those things can wait until there is a little money in the bank. I did get the swing, exersaucer, booster seat - but I don't think I need those yet.

ALSO - one more question. What does baby normally come home in. We got SO many outfits, but shouldn't I just buy something comfy for her?

I would definitely get at least five one-piece outfits (with feet!!!) that are different weights. They are the best things! They are better than outifts that require socks, because socks come off. I would get some cotton ones for inside the house if the heat is warm inside your house, and some fleece or velour ones for going outside. Also, I don't remember your listing exactly, but you should get a good 'snow' suit for going outside.

Also, get a plastic stroller cover so that you can walk outside in the rain/snow. They are great things.

Also, even if you don't plan to use them, get some pacifiers (and pacifier holders) - it might be the only thing that calms the baby down sometimes.

And, since you are planning on bottles as backups, you should also have a bottle & nipple sterilizer - if you use bottles, you WILL need them.

By the way, if you go to the Babies 'R Us website, they have a great checklist for new parents!!!!!!!! I definitely worked off their list.

And, the most important thing is, no matter what you buy now, keep all of your receipts. Once you settle into your routine with the baby, you'll be surprised at what you don't use that you thought you would, and you can bring those items back (I brought back a lot).

And, you'll need a Diaper Dekor, or Diaper Genie or something (and refill bags).

Lastly, I found that the best, softest, and most gentle baby wipes were actually the Kirkland brand ones available only at Costco. If you can go there, get them. They are the best!

My favorite diapers are Pampers Swaddlers and sensitive touch wipes. I use A&D ointment on his toosh. This is what was used in the hospital. His toosh is never red

hi jenny- here is what i use often
dreft- soooo much laundry

pampers swadlers in newborn (we go thru apprx.10 diapers pere day)

pampers sensitive wipes (buy a case, plus 1 tub so you can refill the tub)

wash clothes and hooded towel

baby bath stuff

playtex bottle drop-in liners in 4oz
If you want to BF, the LC told me to use the SILICON nipples ONLY

baby hangers

I would get the bathtub since you are going to use it at some point anyway

you will want approx. 10 onesies (i use the short sleeve ones since we are in the house mostly and her outfits are long sleeves. I
don't want her too warm)

buy a Halo Sleep Sak or two. You will LOVE this. You can have her blanket on without worrying about it covering her face.

bassinet/crib pads so you don't need to change the sheets if there is a diaper mishap


3 bassinet sheets

A diaper bag

I also LOVE the gowns at night but I use it with the Halo sleeper sak so her legs are not cold.

A baby hat- I put one on her even with the bundle me.

I hope this helps!! Have fun shopping..

I agree with all of the above suggestions, and just want to strongly agree with sleepers (with feet! ) and the sleep sack for chilly nights.

Also, I don't know if anyone said this (I just read too many lists and my head is swimming!), but I couldn't have gotten along so far without my bouncy seat. It's a comfy place for Nicky to sit, and I like being able move it to where ever I am so we can see each other.

You're in the home stretch!!! How exciting!!!!

Everyone else is on the ball with their suggestions! I can remember:

I used vaseline with every diaper change (still do). Plus, you'll need some alcohol swabs for the belly button.

Cotton balls (cleaning eyes)
Mild soap (dr. suggested liquid Dove)

As far as coming home outfit - make sure it's comfy and easy to get on her. I found myself all thumbs trying to dress them, either from nerves, exhaustion, etc. I felt as if I was being rushed to get out.

thanks guys! I made a trip to BRU with your suggestions and got almost everyhting you all said!

The only thing I want to go back for are a few more of the long sleeve onesies with the feet. They are actually hard to find...I guess everybody is buying them because of the weather. I got a little overwhelmed in there but plugged on through! I did pick up the bundle me - and on the snowsuit note - do I need that right now if I have the bundle me and a really nice heavy bunting?

Thanks guys for your help as usual!!!!!!

Sorry I missed this thread. Jenny I dont thinkyou need a snowsuit. Is the BundleMe like a fleece? A nice fleece one-piece with a warm hat should be plenty.
As far as coming home outfit, just pick one that you really like, that you plan to have all her coming home photos taken in. Pick one that you got or buy another one if you have something else in mind
Youre getting SOO CLOSEE !!!

As far as baby bath items (body washes, shampoos, etc). Dont buy too many yet, if you plan on getting in the coupon game , there are TONSSS Of coupons for these things, and they are doubled at the supermarkets. I may have some xtra coupons also, let me know if you want any.

what is bunting??
I see that word on here a lot

the bunting I have Tammy is like this super warm sack basically with a zip up and hood and hand covers attached. It's like a snowsuit with no legs. My mom got me mine. You can zip the baby into it for the cold weather and it's not constricting. Like a little snow bag!