Okay...maybe you do NEED some shoes like this.

Although the manufacturers of baby products would like you to think otherwise, there really is not a lot you need for a new baby.  However, there are some items that are just a must-have.

Diapers

You may be using cloth diapers, disposables, or a combination of both.  Either way, you will need a lot!

Diaper Rash Cream

Look for natural products with ingredients that you wouldn’t mind eating.  Seriously.  If it goes on your babies skin, it is going to end up in his or her body.

Diaper Pail

Somewhere to put the dirty diapers until you are ready to wash them or toss them out, that will keep the stink contained!

Diaper Bag

You will need something to haul around all the cute baby stuff everyone is going to give you.

Car Seat

Hospitals require that you have your baby in a car seat in order to leave.  However, even if you have your baby at home, you will still need a good one.

Nursing Pillow

Proper positioning is vital to successful nursing.  Not hunching over will keep mom from having a sore back.  Nursing pillows will help you do both.

Clothes

You will need less than you think of the cute going out outfits, and more than you think of the all-in-one pajama type outfits.

Carrier

Sling, mai tai, wraps, front-packs – you have endless choices.  Get one or several, though.  Being able to hold your baby close (their preferred position) and still move around and use both your arms is extremely valuable.  Do some research on safe baby-wearing and choose a well-made carrier.

Cradle/Co-sleeper/Crib

Even if you plan on co-sleeping, it is nice to have a place to lay them down for naps.  We had a small cradle that we used a lot for the first six months or so.

Swaddle Blanket

Some babies love to be swaddled, some don’t.  For the ones that do a good, lightweight, swaddle blanket can be an instant calmer.

Burp Rags

Most new babies spit up at least a little, some a lot.  The thin cloth diapers from the big-box stores work great for burp rags.

Nasal Aspirator

It is a sad thing to see a baby trying to nurse or eat with a stuffed-up nose.

Instant Read Thermometer

If you do need this, you will be glad you have one handy.

Infant Pain/Fever Reducer

Hopefully you won’t need this.  However, it is better to have it on-hand than having to go to the drugstore at two in the morning.

Help for Mom and Dad!

If you have visitors in the first couple of weeks, have them bring food or help with dishes or laundry.  You need to rest, recover from the birth and bond with your baby.  Helping around the house is one of the best gifts someone can give you.

Remember, the absolute best thing you can give to your new baby is the gift of happy parents.  Everything else is just accessories.