Bringing home a newborn baby or fostering one is a big adjustment. It can also be overwhelming trying to get everything ready. Here is a guide to the key essentials you’ll need when your little one arrives.
Cot and Moses Basket
One of the main pieces of equipment you’ll need is somewhere safe for your baby to sleep. A cot is ideal for when the baby is a little older and can sleep in a separate room. For the first few months when your baby will be sleeping in your room, a Moses basket is a handy portable bed you can move around the house. Make sure to get a good quality mattress that fits snugly with no gaps.
Pram/Pushchair
A pram or pushchair is essential for getting out and about with your new arrival. Think about your lifestyle and choose between a travel system that includes a car seat, a lightweight umbrella-style stroller or a sturdy model for off-road. Try before you buy to make sure you find it easy to fold and lift. If you foster different ages, consider a double pram or pushchair to accommodate more than one baby and toddler at a time. You can use some of your fostering allowance for this.
Soothing and Bathing
Newborns spend a lot of time sleeping, feeding and crying. A few key items can help soothe and relax your little one. An infant bath support makes bath time safe, and a vibrating bouncy chair can calm a fractious baby. A baby sling lets you keep them close while leaving your hands free.
Feeding Supplies
Whether you plan to breast or bottle feed, you’ll need some feeding essentials. Breastfeeding mums need nursing bras, breast pads and lanolin cream. If bottle feeding, buy bottles with different teat flows, a steriliser and bottle brush. Bibs, muslin cloths and burp cloths will also be handy for minimising mess at feeding time.
Nappies and Changing
With 8-12 nappy changes per day, stock up on newborn and size 1 disposables or cloth nappies. A changing mat, nappy sacks and cream are other changing bag basics. Use non-bio washing detergent for clothes and wash nappies separately.
Clothing and Bedding
While it’s tempting to buy a whole newborn wardrobe, babies grow fast so focus on sleepsuits, bodysuits, hats and scratch mittens. Choose clothes with poppers rather than fiddly buttons. For bedding, cellular blankets and fitted sheets work well. A grobag gives extra warmth in winter.
Safety Equipment
Safety should be your top priority when preparing for a new baby. A rear-facing car seat is a legal requirement. Also buy a stair gate if needed and safety covers for electrical sockets. A baby monitor with video lets you watch them from another room.
Healthcare and Grooming
A digital thermometer, nail clippers and nasal bulb will equip you for basic healthcare. Cotton wool, aqueous cream and petroleum jelly are useful for gently cleaning delicate skin and nappy changes. Stock up on muslins so you always have one to hand!
With these essentials, you’ll be fully prepared for your new arrival. Focus on the key items to begin with, then build up your supplies gradually after the birth. Before you know it, you’ll be a parenting pro!
