Baby's Needs

What do you need for a new baby? Well the list can go on forever according to some but we believe that you can get by on for the first few weeks on less than you think! We have compiled this list based on talking with real moms and dads about what they found most useful. We have broken it down in sections.

Baby's first few weeks

10 recieveing blankets (trust us, you really need this many)

10 washclothes (these come in handy for so many things)

5 onsies/diapershirts

5 sleepers

3 hats

3 booties/socks

3 good baby blankets (at least)

3 hooded bath towels

1 package of diapers 

Diaper rash cream

1 medical supply kit (usually has fingernail clippers, bulb syringe, thermometer etc)

6  4oz Bottles (if you plan to bottlefeed)

Mom's first few weeks

Sanitary Napkins (you are not allowed to use tampons after giving birth so you will want to stock up on very absorbent sanitary napkins for the first few weeks)

Book on baby care (this will ease your mind about the many strange noises and habits of newborns)

Easy to prepare dinners (have dinners pre-maid or buy frozen entrees for those first few weeks, you probably wont feel much like cooking)

Nipple cream and breast pads (if you plan to breastfeed) 

Dad's first few weeks

During the first few weeks newborns tend to be either sleeping or eating. Dad may find that the baby seems to spend alot of time with the mother (especially if she is breastfeeding) during the first few weeks. However, there are still many ways in which a father can participate in the care of his newborn. 

Many women find themselves physically and emotionally exhausted in the weeks that follow the birth of a child. The most important thing that a father can do during those first few weeks is to give the mother positive feedback and encouragement. A woman's body changes dramatically after birth and hormone levels are changing once again. By encouraging and supporting the mother, a father plays a very important role in the happiness of the entire family.

Fathers can also take care of diapering, night wakings and feedings (if bottle feeding) in the first few weeks. Its important for both parents to participate in caring for their newborn baby in what ever way they can.