It’s easy to go overboard on purchases when planning for a new baby. The exhilaration of the moment leads many to do this, even though many of the items they buy end up collecting dust in their closets. Some things, though, are crucial, and it is these that you should focus on. Have a look through the list we’ve compiled to help you!

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Clothing 

Babies outgrow their clothes at an alarming rate, so if you buy too much at once, you’ll be disappointed when it all ends up having to be given away because it was never worn. In the first few weeks of your baby’s existence, all they truly need are garments that will keep them clean and warm and can be readily washed. Those one-piece sleepsuits are ideal, and it’s great that you can wear them during the day or the night. You should have enough of these (at least six, and ideally more) to be able to wash the dirty ones and still have clean ones for the baby to wear.

You should have enough of these (at least six, and ideally more) to be able to wash the dirty ones and still have clean ones for the baby to wear. Cardigans are great to have on hand for those chilly indoor evenings or for use as an additional layer while venturing outside. Layering is key, and vests are fantastic for that same reason. A shawl, hat, gloves, and an extra pair of socks or bootees are also helpful for keeping the baby warm in the stroller or car. If the weather is hot, don’t forget a hat.

Changing Table

You might not believe you need a specialized changing table because they are such a modern piece of furniture. If you give it some thought, though, you’ll realise that it’s a piece of furniture you’ll use at least eight times a day over the course of the next year or so and that it can be rather useful. Having a separate baby changing table offers two major advantages.

First, the changing table may be adjusted to a height that is convenient for you. Changing a baby on a changing mat is hard on the back and the knees, so this is a big plus. Your back and knees may feel the strain of constantly bending down to change baby, therefore a changing table is a great investment in your health.

In addition, many modern changing tables come with ample drawer space for storing diapers, wipes, lotions, and other ‘ablutionary’ items, as well as a variety of other baby care necessities. Because of this, not only can you put things away in your changing table, but you can also keep everything you need for changing the baby within easy reach. You can even combine this furniture with other things; there are many benefits of using a crib with a changing table, for example. 

Toys 

No one expects a brand-new baby to sit and play with toys as an older child can, but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t have any. When a baby is hungry, exhausted, or in need of a diaper change, they can feel a lot better if they have a stuffed animal to cuddle with. They may find it easier to drift off to sleep if they have something familiar to hold onto, feel the texture of, and simply have around. Swings for infants are another wonderful gift idea. A baby swing is a great way to give your infant age-appropriate stimulation while also giving tired mums a break from rocking their baby to sleep. There are a lot of different swings available, so if you’re on the fence about which one to buy, check out some customer reviews.

Bedding 

Your infant will also require a safe, warm, comfortable, and close-to-you sleeping environment. Many parents prefer a carrycot or bassinet. If you’re putting your infant in a crib right away, check sure there are no spaces where a head, arm, or leg could become trapped. If the crib is used, it is essential to purchase a new mattress as well. The mattress should be well-fitting to the cot, and there should be no gaps where a baby could suffocate if they become stuck. Sheets and light blankets will also be required. Don’t forget to grab a few (four or more) because newborns produce a lot of mess, and bedding takes the brunt of it! You won’t need to use pillows or duvets for any infant under a year old, so don’t buy them just yet.