Going into a store that's bulging with baby goods can be a little overwhelming. How do you know what you really need right away?
What To Stock Up On For Baby
Here's a list of basic layette items to get you started for your baby's early days. Some of the amounts may seem like a lot, but with extra items on hand, you won't have to do laundry every day.
- 2 or 3 soft, baby-size bath towels and 6 to 10 baby washcloths
- 6 to 8 receiving blankets.
- 6 front-snapping stretch jumper suits, newborn gowns, or bodysuits
- 6 to 10 cotton-knit, front-snapping T-shirts
- 1 or 2 sweaters
- 2 to 3 sleeper suits
- 3 or 4 crib or bassinet sheets (be sure they fit tightly on the mattress)
- 4 to 6 pairs of socks or booties
- Diapers sized for newborns
- At least one wide-brimmed hat to protect your baby's head and face from the sun during outings.
- Bunting or snowsuit if you live in a cold climate.
- Mittens if you live in a cold climate.
Clothing Safety Tips
Keep these guidelines in mind when shopping for all children's clothing.
- Stick with all-cotton or cotton blends, which are soft and easily washable.
- Check labels for the phrase "flame retardant."
- Don't dress your baby in items with strings (like hooded sweatshirts with drawstrings); these can twist around little hands, fingers, toes, and even necks.
- Buy tops with generous head holes so that dressing your infant is easy for you and comfortable for her.
- Check regularly for loose buttons, which pose a choking hazard.
Avoid outfitting your baby in clothes with decorative items like beads or ribbons, which are tempting for little hands. If they come loose, they present a choking risk.
