Checklist: Baby essentials

Posted Thursday, April 12, 2007 10:23 PM

Here it is: The bare-bones, absolute essentials, nothing-but-the-basics baby shopping guide. (If you're looking for a few more luxuries, check out our ultimate baby checklist.) Find real mom reviews of all these items at lila guide.

[  ] 4-8 undershirts or vests (snaps at neck or wide head openings, snaps under crotch)

[  ] 4-8 one-piece pajamas

[  ] 1-3 rompers or other dress-up outfits

[  ] 4-7 socks or booties (shoes are unnecessary until baby walks)

[  ] 1-3 hats (broad-brimmed for summer baby, soft cap that covers ears for winter baby)

[  ] Crib, cradle or bassinet
    • Slats no more than 2 3/8 inches apart   
    • Corner posts no more than 1/16 of an inch above frame
    • No cutouts in headboard or footboard
    • Top rails at least 26 inches above mattress

[  ] Firm, flat mattress fit snugly in crib (less than two fingers should fit between mattress and crib)

[  ] 2-4 fitted crib sheets

[  ] 4-6 soft, light receiving blankets

[  ] Changing table or cushioned changing pad for low dresser or bureau, with safety strap or railing

[  ] Changing table pad

[  ] Diaper cream

[  ] Unscented baby wipes (causes less irritation)

[  ] Soft washcloths

[  ] 6-10 dozen cloth diapers and 6-8 diaper covers, or 2-3 large boxes of disposable newborn-size diapers

[  ] Baby soap

[  ] 10-16 bottles and nipples, both four and eight ounce (if fed strictly by the bottle, baby will go through about ten in the four ounce size per day)

[  ] Burp cloths (or cloth diapers)

[  ] Formula (if not nursing)

[  ] Pump (if you plan to breastfeed)

[  ] Milk storage bags (if you plan to breastfeed)

[  ] Baby nail clippers or blunt scissors

[  ] Baby thermometer

[  ] Petroleum jelly and sterile gauze (for circumcision care)

[  ] Infant or convertible car seat

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