Welcoming a new baby into your family is an exhilarating adventure consisting of joy, love, and tons of special firsts. As you prepare for such a life-changing journey, knowing you have everything you need can bring peace of mind and help you focus on the moments that truly count.
From a baby crib and baby carrier to an infant monitor and baby high chair, here’s a comprehensive checklist of baby essentials for their first year, so you can concentrate on what’s most important, your baby.
- Infant Car Seats
A newborn's safety always comes first, and choosing the proper infant car seat is very important. Make sure the baby car seat meets the new safety standards for maximum protection. Adjustable harnesses and headrests are a must, given the fact that the car seat will grow together with your baby. Car seat weight is a factor to consider, the lighter the better. You will be carrying your baby in the car seat for at least the first few months of life. As your baby gets heavier, reduced weight from your car seat can make all the difference. To optimize travel, consider choosing an infant car seat and stroller combo that can easily convert between functions. Try using seats with easy installation systems that don't give you any headaches. If you would like to ensure that your car seat is properly installed, a car seat check event can be very helpful. Allied Physicians Group hosts car seat check events throughout the year. Please visit our events page to find out when and where the next one is.
- Baby Strollers
Since you will likely use a stroller for the first 2-4 years of your child’s life, durability, adaptability, and portability should be top priorities. Choose an infant stroller that can be adjusted as your baby grows. Consider lightweight, folding strollers for easy transport and storage. A durable frame constructed from quality materials will assure longevity. An infant stroller with good suspension ensures that the ride is not too jarring, that it would turn easily on any terrain.
- Baby Carriers and Baby Wrap Carriers
Keeping your baby close while having your hands free is a dream for many new parents. Select a baby carrier that will support your baby's legs and bottom in the "M" hip-supportive position for safety. For comfort, pick models that offer good lumbar support and feature straps that adjust with ease. Look for carriers that are easy to secure by yourself in case you are alone with your baby. Baby wrap carriers that are easy to wear and offer various carrying positions that adapt as your baby grows, will provide utility and convenience in those first few months.
- Baby Monitors
A reliable infant monitor offers added peace of mind, as it allows you to keep an eye on your baby from another location. High-resolution cameras with night vision provide crystal-clear viewing at all times of the day. Choose between wifi enabled and non-wifi monitors. Wifi monitors usually sync with an app on your phone and give you the ability to see your baby even if you are out of the house. Non-wifi monitors work within a certain proximity and include a personal monitor to view your baby. Ensure the infant monitor has a good range that suits the size of your home. Both can have advanced features including a temperature sensor and two-way audio.
- Baby Toys
Toys not only provide entertainment, but are essential in your baby's development. Choose safe, non-toxic, and age-appropriate toys that don't have small, detachable parts. Ensure the baby toys you provide stimulate their senses and aid in their growth, curiosity, and development. Consider items like:
- Tummy time play mats
- High contrast toys
- Teething toys
- Crib mobiles
- Breast Pumps
A quality breast pump is invaluable for nursing mothers. Models with variable suction levels and stimulation options are effective. Portable models that are battery-operated are convenient for use on the go. Ease of cleaning is also important, check to see if the pump parts are easy to clean and sanitize as this will need to be done after each use. Be sure to stock up on other breastfeeding pump accessories, like milk storage bags, nipple cream, and nursing pads. Many insurances cover some or all of your breast pump purchase and supplies. Be sure to reach out to your insurance to see what your plan includes.
- Baby Crib
Your baby will spend a good portion of their day in their crib or bassinet, so safety is non-negotiable. Ensure the baby crib meets safety standards with no drop sides and properly spaced slats. Your baby should always be sleeping on a firm surface, on their back, with no bumpers, pillows, blankets, or stuffed animals in their crib. Choose a firm, flat mattress with an adjustable base, allowing you to lower the height as your baby grows. You may also want to consider baby cribs that can be converted into toddler beds later on to get the most use out of your investment.
- Baby Swing
A baby swing can be a lifesaver, giving you time to soothe your baby hands-free. Look for baby swings with comfortable padded seats, which usually come in a number of reclining positions. Adjustable speeds and different motion settings may help comfort your baby. Features like lullabies and white noise are also very helpful to soothe your baby. Safety features to look for in an infant swing include a secure harness and stable base.
- Baby Gate
Once your baby starts crawling and navigating your home more, you may need an extra-safe baby gate. Use only solid materials and secure installation. Pick those that would be tall enough for your child not to climb over. Ease of operation is important for parents while ensuring security for children.
- Baby Essentials
There are many additional baby health, clothing, and convenience essentials to keep top of mind before baby’s arrival:
- Baby Diapers & Wipes: One thing is for sure - you will need plenty of infant diapers, sensitive wipes, and diaper cream on hand at all times to keep your baby clean and comfortable. Invest in a diaper-changing table with storage to keep all your supplies organized and easily accessible.
- Baby Clothes: You will also want several outfits that are comfortable and easy to switch in and out. Consider items like:
- Onesies with two-way zippers and built-in mittens. These are awesome features to keep baby warm and make your life easier.
- Shirts and Pants
- Newborn Hats
- Jackets and Sweaters
- Socks and Booties
- Mittens
- Feeding Supplies: It’s crucial to have bottles, extra nipples, breastmilk or baby formula, and burp cloths on hand. Additionally, invest in products like bottle brushes, bottle sterilizers, and dryers to help you clean your baby feeding supplies.
- Baby Lotion & Baby Sunscreen: Look for hypoallergenic baby lotion and zinc-based baby sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to keep your baby's skin safe. Please note that babies should not use any sunscreen until at least 6 months of age. If younger, please keep them covered and out of direct sunlight.
- Baby Bath Supplies: Choose hypoallergenic soaps, soft baby towels, and a sturdy baby bathtub to keep baby happy, safe, and squeaky clean.
- Baby Nail Clippers: A pair of baby nail clippers with rounded edges and safety guards make it easier and safer to clip those tiny baby nails.
- Baby Thermometer: There are various types of baby thermometers, including rectal, ear, and forehead models. Choosing the right one depends on factors such as accuracy, ease of use, and your baby's preference.
- Baby High Chair: A safe, sturdy, adjustable, and easy-to-clean baby high chair will make feeding times less challenging.
- Pediatrician
Finding a pediatrician, interviewing, and onboarding before your baby arrives can be a big stress-saver. Knowing you have a pediatrician you like means one less thing will keep you up all night when your newborn finally comes home. Pediatricians will be your go-to expert on your baby’s healthcare needs. Therefore, it’s important to choose a baby doctor that provides you with a caring team that you can always count on to comfort and advise from day one.
With You Every Step of Your Parenting Journey
Welcoming a newborn into the family is a very exciting time, especially for first-time parents. It should be a time of love, laughter, and so many "firsts."
At Allied Physicians Group, our trusted and knowledgeable team supports you at every stage in your parenting journey, with not only healthcare, but also a partnership that empowers parents. Our experienced providers offer personalized care and are passionate about guiding families through the most important milestones.
Join us for a tour of Allied Physicians and meet our dedicated team to learn how we can support you and your family.
Allied Physicians Group is a partnership of more than 150 dedicated, caring physicians and 350 highly trained support staff. We offer pediatric care, family medicine, and other specialties at our practice locations. Allied Physicians Group offers clinic locations in Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester, Rockland, and Orange Counties. If you are looking for a physician near you
click here, or for more information, please visit:
https://alliedphysiciansgroup.com.
