Check age on them. It’s best to use the same brand of nipple as the bottle you buy. Just get a few in the beginning.

Baby or Diaper Bag

get one that is washable with lots of compartments. There is a vinyl changing pad that should come with it but if you’re using a regular bag instead of a specified diaper bag, you will need to get one.

Diapers Ointment

Almost all babies get a diaper rash at one stage or another.

Baby Powder

The best kinds of baby powder suitable for baby are the cornstarch kind.

Nail Clippers/Scissors

Manicure set, clipping baby’s tiny nails.

Thermometer

A rectal one is the most inexpensive and all you really need. They also have the ear-thermometers which are pretty handy when taking the temperature of a cranky baby.

Dimmer Lights

For middle of the night changes.

Baby Monitor

A wonderful device when you can’t be in the same room as your baby. Useful for at least 12 months but you will probably use it for longer.

Baby Hangers

These tiny hangers are important. get as many as you need to hang baby’s clothes.

Breast Pump

You absolutely need this if you plan to breastfeed and go back to work. The only way you can avoid getting one is if you plan to be with the baby all the time until he is weaned. You only need one but research which one you want. manual (the least expensive) does not work for everyone. Check with your friends to get first hand testimonials before you make your purchase.

Bottles

Bottles are necessary if you don’t plan to breastfeed, going to supplement breastfeeding or you want to store your milk. Minimum 6 if breastfeeding, you can start with 4 oz. bottles in the beginning.

Formula

Breastfeeding is proven to be the best for baby. Substitute with formula if you really must. also, if formula gets too expensive, consider breastfeeding.

Cradle/Bassinet

You will probably want baby close in the first few weeks or months. A cradle, bassinet of some sort or there are even playpens that convert to a crib bed which can be a wise option especially since you can use it later when baby gets older.

Sheets/Linens

You will need extra sheets, lap pads and waterproof accessories. Baby bedding runs between $100-$300 new for a complete set and like many things, you get what you pay for. One set which includes: Comforter, bumper pad, skirt, diaper stacker.

Mattress

It doesn’t normally come with the crib, so you’ll need to shop for one that is suitable for the cot of your choice.

Dresser, Drawers and Storage

Before you know it, you will need compartments and drawers to stash all that new baby stuff in.

Stroller

Go window shopping for strollers and compare prices and make your decision. You want one which is fully adjustable, lightweight as well as easy to fold.

Car Seat

You must have one right away. You can either get an infant car seat which can be used as a carrier or even as part of your stroller.

Baby Seats

Stroller and car seats can include carriers in their multi versions. There are so many options in this category. You need to look around and consider your lifestyle to make the right decision for you and baby.

Baby Sling/Carrier

This is one of those things you will have or not interested in at all. It comes in handy from 0-10 months depending on baby’s weight.

A well balanced diet during nursing need not be vastly different from that suggested during pregnancy. An extra glass of milk, some citrus fruits, and some additional carbohydrates (cereal or bread) can provide the extra calories and nutrients needed. calcium and vitamin C are particularly important to the growing infant. Extra fluids may help to stimulate milk production. Water, juice, milk and soups are good sources of liquids. While it is not necessary to drink milk to produce milk, milk is a convenient and good source of calcium, protein and liquid. Drink 8 to 12 cups of liquid each day. Choose pure juices, water, and four cups of milk. Choose additional servings from the 4 food groups to help meet increased calorie needs. Avoid alcoholic beverages completely.

Milk and Dairy Products

• Eat four to six servings per day
• Examples of milk and dairy products include: one cup milk, 1/2 cup ice cream, one ounce cheese, one cup yoghurt, or one and a half cup cottage cheese.

Meat and Protein Foods

• Eat two to four servings (seven ounces) per day.
• Examples of meat and protein foods include: one egg, one ounce cheese, 1/2 cup dried beans, beef, chicken, pork, fish or turkey.

Fruits and Vegetables

• Choose four to six servings per day including one source of Vitamin C.
• These include: broccoli, orange juice, tomatoes or greens.

Breads and Cereals

• Eat six to eight servings per day.
• Breads and Cereals include: Cornflakes, Wholemeal bread, oatmeal.

Envelope Shoulder Onesie

For the uninitiated, this is an essential bodysuit that snaps conveniently in the diaper zone. Snaps also prevent it from riding up like a T-shirt. Overlapping shoulder slits (called envelopes) add s-t-r-e-t-c-h for a quick and gentle ride over delicate heads. Parents rave about the classic component of every newborn’s wardrobe.

Playsuit

A onesie with legs and more snaps, down to the ankles. Look for a playsuit that opens up completely so new moms can dress baby gently.

Two-Sided Receiving Blanket

A cute and practical leak barrier for all occasions, not just for receiving guests. Never-miss softness for calming swaddling. Two layers of fabric support baby’s body better than lightweight blankets, helping new mums and dads feel more confident. The hood keeps baby warm and protected.

Reversible Cardigan

No matter what the climate, newborns need this layering piece. A hood with gentle elastic plays double-duty indoors and out. The straight bottom won’t ride up on active infants. It is reversible, so it can be worn as a stripe or a solid, adding wardrobe versatility.

Gussetted Pants

With extra room for bulky diapers, the gusset adds comfort and style to pants.

Kimono Shirt

Originally designed with fabric ties, parents unanimously called for snaps for easier and quicker dressing of squirming infants.

Sweat Pants

Let your child tumble around in comfy sweat pants. Thanks to a covered elastic waist-band that’s stitched-down, twisting won’t happen again in the wash. Plus side pockets to hold all sorts of treasures.

Super-T Playsuits

Every parent strives for as carefree a clothing as possible for their little ones. the Super-T Playsuit fits the bill. Not only is it easy to wear and put on, its sturdy construction and 100% cotton jersey also make it easier to care for. Even stripes are yarn-dyed to stay as bright as a spring day, despite trips through the wash. And whether your child prefers bugs or baseball, there’s sure to be a screen print that strikes a chord with your little one.

Layette

Not just a blanket (a common misconception), rather a complete outfit for a newborn child as defined by Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary.

Cloth Diapers

Traditional cloth diapers are environmentally friendly and easier on your pocket. These are what you’ll need if you use cloth diapers:

• 24 squares of cloth diapers (they come in standard size of 30cm x 30cm).
• 2 large plastic pails with lids for collecting soiled diapers.
• 3 to 4 pairs of waterproof pants to prevent your baby’s clothes and bedding from getting stained.
• Diaper liner (disposable or washable). This prevents moisture from seeping back onto the baby’s skin.
• Diaper pins / safety clamps. If you use pins, choose stainless steel ones with safety locks. An alternative to pins are safety clamps that hook onto the diaper’s three flaps to hold the diaper together.

Although there are specially shaped cloth diapers (they look neater and are easier to put on) available in the market, these take longer to dry than the ordinary square ones. Fine muslin diapers can be used for tiny babies or as diaper liner. Special, thick cloth diapers will come in handy if baby needs extra protection at night.

Diapering Needs

Besides diapers, you will also need the following items regardless of whether using cloth or disposable diapers:

• Tissue Paper
• Cotton Balls
• Warm water, baby lotion or baby wipes. baby wipes are particularly convenient when travelling. Most baby wipes have lanolin or aloe vera to soothe and moistirize baby’s bottom
• Baby cream. Use zinc ointment or other barrier cream
• Changing mat/table. Some tables come with detachable mats; these can be carried with you and used on outings when a baby changing room is not available
• Diaper trash bin

Cost Saving

Some parents like the convenience of disposables but find them too expensive. To save cost, alternate between cloth and disposable diapers in the day and substitute them with disposables at night, for outings and holidays.

All disposable diapers have a plastic outer layer to prevent staining, sticky tape fasteners and elasticated leg openings. You’ll find disposable diapers convenient because:

• There is no need for washing and drying
• Most disposables come with “breathing” systems which keep moisture away from baby’s skin more effectively
• Indicators on the diaper band alert you when baby has soiled himself

Ease Baby Rash

Here are some tips to ease baby rash :

• Use a protective barrier cream such as zinc and castor oil ointment if baby is particularly susceptible to diaper rash
• Reach for baby wipes which are gentler on sore bottoms because of their moist properties. save the cotton balls for days when baby’s bottom is not so irritated
• Change your baby’s diapers twice as often if he has diaper rash
• Leave out the waterproof pants from time to time; better still, leave him on the changing mat without a diaper for a while to let air get to his skin
• Make sure baby’s cloth diapers are rinsed carefully and thoroughly to eliminate all traces of detergent that can irritate baby’s bottom
• Seek advice from a paediatrician