Preparing for a New Baby - Equipment
Whilst it's very exciting waiting for the big day and the arrival of your new baby over 50% of parents worry about having "everything" they need for their child. Having worked as a maternity nurse and trained nanny I always advise parents to get prepared and buy all the necessary baby equipment a month or so in advance. You never know what could happen especially if the baby comes early, you will worry more than ever if you are rushed in to hospital for emergency delivery. Men don't always have the same way of shopping as women, i.e. if it's not on the list they won't think of it and to be fair, with a first time father this could hardly be expected.
Let's start with the essential equipment you will need, 1 Moses basket/bassinet or cot, a changing table or mat, ideally with a removable cover or wipe-able plastic. I always place a terry nappy or something similar over it to make the baby comfortable, especially when changing in the middle of the night! You will definitely need a car seat, these are all different you must take your car with you so it can be properly fitted, they are NOT standard items. In the UK you will not be able to take your baby home unless you have one, the midwife will also come out and check before you leave the hospital.
A pram which allows the baby to lie flat is essential. Most parents opt for the multi-system prams such as the Bugaboo which convert from a pram, to a one click carry car seat and then later transforms into a buggy, once your baby is able to sit up. They can be very expensive so it is best to shop around and find one that suits your budget- *Top Tip, make sure it will fit into your car and house, some houses have a small entrance or a tight corner to get around so bear this in mind before purchasing, it can be quite painful and expensive mistake.
In regards to clothing and baby bedding, it is advisable to have a minimum of 3-4 Babygro's or baby suits, ideally 6. It is surprising how many you can go through in one day once your baby starts poo-ing or bringing up feeds and you may feel too exhausted to be washing every day. If it is winter time it is best to have thicker suits, i.e. towelling or velour and cotton in summer. You will also need 3 vests, the all in one's are best as they don't ride up the baby's back. Mittens, booties and a hat for summer and winter will be required as babies can lose a lot of heat through their heads, so keep them covered up. You will also need 2 cot + pram sheets, shade for the pram/car, 2-3 blankets light weight and ideally made of natural fabrics.
If you have the budget a sheepskin rug to go in the cot/pram or to lie on the floor is lovely, babies really enjoy the warmth and comfort, and they work well in both summer and winter. Lambswool or cashmere baby blankets are gorgeous too. In terms of bathing your new born baby you can use a sink or a plastic bucket or of course a baby bath if you find that easier.
In terms of feeding you will need a sterilizer; there are electric, microwave and cold water sterilizers. Look out for my next article looking at everyday items you need whilst caring for your new baby at home.
Whilst it's very exciting waiting for the big day and the arrival of your new baby over 50% of parents worry about having "everything" they need for their child. Having worked as a maternity nurse and trained nanny I always advise parents to get prepared and buy all the necessary baby equipment a month or so in advance. You never know what could happen especially if the baby comes early, you will worry more than ever if you are rushed in to hospital for emergency delivery. Men don't always have the same way of shopping as women, i.e. if it's not on the list they won't think of it and to be fair, with a first time father this could hardly be expected.
Let's start with the essential equipment you will need, 1 Moses basket/bassinet or cot, a changing table or mat, ideally with a removable cover or wipe-able plastic. I always place a terry nappy or something similar over it to make the baby comfortable, especially when changing in the middle of the night! You will definitely need a car seat, these are all different you must take your car with you so it can be properly fitted, they are NOT standard items. In the UK you will not be able to take your baby home unless you have one, the midwife will also come out and check before you leave the hospital.
A pram which allows the baby to lie flat is essential. Most parents opt for the multi-system prams such as the Bugaboo which convert from a pram, to a one click carry car seat and then later transforms into a buggy, once your baby is able to sit up. They can be very expensive so it is best to shop around and find one that suits your budget- *Top Tip, make sure it will fit into your car and house, some houses have a small entrance or a tight corner to get around so bear this in mind before purchasing, it can be quite painful and expensive mistake.
In regards to clothing and baby bedding, it is advisable to have a minimum of 3-4 Babygro's or baby suits, ideally 6. It is surprising how many you can go through in one day once your baby starts poo-ing or bringing up feeds and you may feel too exhausted to be washing every day. If it is winter time it is best to have thicker suits, i.e. towelling or velour and cotton in summer. You will also need 3 vests, the all in one's are best as they don't ride up the baby's back. Mittens, booties and a hat for summer and winter will be required as babies can lose a lot of heat through their heads, so keep them covered up. You will also need 2 cot + pram sheets, shade for the pram/car, 2-3 blankets light weight and ideally made of natural fabrics.
If you have the budget a sheepskin rug to go in the cot/pram or to lie on the floor is lovely, babies really enjoy the warmth and comfort, and they work well in both summer and winter. Lambswool or cashmere baby blankets are gorgeous too. In terms of bathing your new born baby you can use a sink or a plastic bucket or of course a baby bath if you find that easier.
In terms of feeding you will need a sterilizer; there are electric, microwave and cold water sterilizers. Look out for my next article looking at everyday items you need whilst caring for your new baby at home.
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