Pregnancy health centre

What supplies do you need for your newborn baby?

Welcoming a baby into the world requires more than making sure they are healthy in your tummy. At some point, your little love will make their way out and you need to be prepared. This list should help you get all you need to take care of your baby during the early months. As your baby gets older, you will find other items that will make your life easier.

The nursery

• Moses basket, bassinet, or cot: If you choose to have your baby sleep in your room at night, a Moses basket or bassinet is a nice option for the first few months. When the baby gets bigger, you will need to get a cot. When choosing a cot, make sure it meets the latest safety standards and that there are no more than five centimetres between the slats.
• Cot mattress: Unfortunately, most cots do not come with mattresses so you will need to purchase one. Pick out a mattress that has good back support, is not too soft, and meets all fire-retardant regulations.
• Dresser/chest of drawers: You will need a few drawers to store your baby's clothes and toys.
• Changing area: This can be on top of a dresser or a separate changing table. It is a good idea to buy a changing mat to lay the baby on top of when changing. Never take your hand or eyes off your baby when changing them, especially if your changing area is off the ground; babies can roll off the table at the blink of an eye.
• Nursing chair or rocking chair: Although not essential, it's nice to have when feeding your baby. Pick one out that has padded arms for extra support and comfort. A footrest adds additional comfort, especially if breastfeeding.
• Night light: Not essential, but it helps you see during those middle of the night nappy changes and feeds.
• CD/MP3 player: Lullaby music is a nice way to lull your baby into a peaceful sleep or soothe your baby when they are upset.

Cot bedding

• Quilted mattress pad
• Fitted cot sheets (smaller sizes are sold for Moses baskets and bassinets)
• Waterproof mattress pads or waterproof sheets
• Cellular or other light blankets

Note: Babies don't need pillows or fluffy blankets in their cot. They also should not sleep with stuffed animals or toys. They could cause your baby to suffocate since he or she is not strong enough to roll over or push them away.

Nappy time: What you need for the changing area

• Nappies (plan on using 70 to 90 per week for the first six weeks, then 50 per week)
• Disposable nappy wipes (alcohol-free)
• Nappy rash ointment or cream (such as Sudocrem)
• Mat for the baby to lie on during changing
• Nappy bin to dispose of soiled nappies