When you have a baby there are all sorts of things that people tell you that you will need. Before you know it your Amazon wishlist has surpassed $5,000 and you’re wondering how on Earth you’re going to fit all of this stuff in your tiny apartment.
When it comes to the bare essentials after having a baby, however, there really aren’t that many things you need besides clothing, diapers, and a source of milk. Don’t trouble yourself over buying thousands of socks that jingle, special pants which will cinch your waist, or the latest overpriced lamp made of salt rocks. Here are the main things that you’ll need when you give birth.
A Car Seat
When you leave the hospital, assuming you don’t live a block away, you will want to take your baby home in a car. Therefore, you’ll need to provide a car seat for your precious cargo to arrive home safely without anyone getting hurt.
Make sure that it’s brand new and suited for a newborn. It is not advised to use old car seats as the safety standards should be up to date. A few extra dollars on a good car seat which you can depend on is worth it when it comes to your new baby.
Breast Pads
In the beginning, your breasts are going to leak a lot. It’s beyond a few drips here and there and more like a full-on faucet. Therefore, in order to avoid lactating all over yourself and your friends, make sure that you have breast pads on hand.
Even if you go the route of bottle feeding your body will go through an adjustment period which may be a little messy. The good news is these aren’t expensive, and some can even be reusable.
A Baby Carrier
During the first period of your baby’s life, they are going to want to be held a lot. Your baby is used to being inside of your womb so recreating this sensation is something they love.
In order to be able to do things like put on pants or get yourself a glass of water, however, you’ll need to have your hands free. Putting your baby in a baby carrier which you can keep against your chest is extremely helpful during this time.
A Swing
Since babies are used to the swaying movement of when they were inside of your belly, it can be difficult for them to be comfortable in a static position.
Therefore, sometimes the only way to get babies off to sleep is to put them in a swing. Try to find a swing which is electric rather than battery operated to save money.
