Congratulations, Mom-to-be! The arrival of a new baby in the family is a moment full of joy. However, before the little one is born, there are many preparations to be made, including ensuring you have all the necessary baby supplies. To help you avoid confusion while shopping, we have compiled a list of 15 baby essentials you need to purchase before the little one arrives. Pay close attention!
List of Newborn Baby Supplies That Need to Be Purchased
1. Baby Diapers
Baby diapers are one of the most important and frequently used items. Newborns require many diaper changes each day, usually around 10-12 times a day. Therefore, make sure you have enough diaper stock for the next few days. You can choose between convenient disposable diapers or eco-friendly cloth diapers. Disposable diapers are usually more comfortable for use at night or when traveling.
However, if you plan to use washable and reusable cloth diapers, it is advisable to choose cotton materials that are absorbent and soft. Additionally, select cloth diapers that have ties or velcro, so you don't have to bother using safety pins.
2. Baby Clothes and Pants
Clothing is one of the important aspects of caring for your baby. When buying clothes and pants for a newborn, choose comfortable and practical clothing. Here are some clothing options you should prepare from the start:
4–8 baju jumper pendek dan panjang yang disertai dengan kancing di bahu, selangkangan, atau di sepanjang bagian depan tubuh.
4–8 kemeja dengan gaya kimono dengan kancing di bahu.
4–8 piyama.
4–8 celana pendek, panjang, atau legging yang elastis dan menutupi perut bayi.
1–3 sweater atau jaket dengan kancing depan.
Memilih pakaian dengan kancing di depan tak hanya demi kenyamanan Si Kecil, tetapi juga untuk memudahkan Anda dalam mengenakan atau melepaskan pakaiannya. Juga, pastikan bahwa pakaian bayi Anda mudah dicuci dan terbuat dari bahan yang tidak menyebabkan alergi.
3. Socks, Gloves, and Hats
To keep the baby warm and protect their very sensitive skin, you need to prepare at least 3–4 pairs of socks and mittens, as well as 2–3 cotton hats. Socks and mittens are especially useful in cold weather to maintain the baby's body temperature. Additionally, mittens are also useful to prevent the little one from scratching themselves and injuring their face.
4. Swaddle Blanket
For 9 months in the womb, the baby has a position similar to being swaddled or wrapped. Therefore, after birth, many babies feel comfortable when swaddled. You need to provide at least 3–4 blankets or cloths suitable for swaddling your Little One for their comfort after birth.
Thin cotton blankets or fabrics are suitable for use in hot weather, while thicker blankets are better used in cold weather, in air-conditioned rooms, or at night. By having several blanket options, you can ensure the baby's comfort in various conditions.
5. Baby Crib
An equally important baby item is the baby crib. Baby sleep safety is crucial, and a dedicated baby crib is the safest place for a baby to sleep during the first 6 months. Make sure you choose a crib that meets baby safety standards and has a comfortable mattress. Additionally, don't forget to provide at least 4–5 spare sheets made of soft material to help you maintain the cleanliness of the baby's crib.
6. Mosquito Net
A baby mosquito net is an additional accessory that can help protect your baby from mosquito attacks and bites, especially if your residence is in an area with many mosquitoes. This option is safer compared to using mosquito repellent, which may irritate your baby's skin.
7. Equipment for Changing Diapers
It is important to ensure you have all the necessary supplies to change your Little One's diaper quickly and efficiently. Some supplies you need to prepare include:
2–3 packs of unscented, alcohol-free cotton balls. 1–2 packs of hypoallergenic wet wipes specifically designed for cleaning babies' diaper areas. 2 bottles of diaper cream, if needed. A waterproof mat or pad. A small trash can specifically for disposable diapers or used cotton balls. By having all of these supplies, you will be better prepared for unexpected diaper changing moments.
8. Bathing Supplies
The skin of a newborn baby is still very smooth, soft, and sensitive, requiring special bath supplies and products that will not cause irritation or allergies. Here are the bath supplies you need to prepare:
Bak mandi bayi, agar lebih mudah dan aman saat memandikan bayi.
2–4 handuk mandi bayi.
Sabun dan sampo khusus bayi.
Selain perlengkapan saat mandi, Anda juga perlu mempersiapkan beragam produk perawatan kulit yang dapat digunakan setelah memandikan Si Kecil. Ini termasuk bedak bayi, sisir halus, pelembap kulit, dan minyak pijat atau minyak telon. Minyak telon, misalnya, dapat menjaga tubuh bayi tetap hangat setelah mandi, meredakan perut kembung, serta mencegah masuk angin dan gigitan nyamuk.
9. Small Bib
Babies often spit up breast milk or burp when they burp. Using a small bib around the baby's neck can protect their clothes to keep them clean. Make sure the bib can be easily removed for cleaning.
10. Milk Bottle
If you plan to give formula milk or expressed breast milk to your baby, you need to prepare several milk bottles along with a brush to clean them. Ensure the milk bottles are always clean and sterile. You can sterilize them by boiling the milk bottles in boiling water for 30 minutes.
11. Special Baby Detergent
Pregnant women may also need a gentle baby laundry detergent for the Little One's clothes. This is because a newborn's skin tends to be very delicate and may be sensitive to the chemicals found in regular detergents. Choose a baby-specific detergent that is fragrance-free and gentle on their skin.
12. Nail Clippers and Ear Bud
To prevent the baby from scratching their face with long nails, you need to prepare special baby nail clippers. Additionally, ear buds, which are useful for cleaning the outer area of the baby's ear, are also important to purchase. However, make sure to use the ear buds carefully to avoid pushing the cotton into the baby's ear.
13. Medications
Pregnant women can ask the doctor about what medication can be given to the baby for common issues, such as fever or colic. Store the medication in a cool, dry place, and make sure to follow the usage instructions provided by the doctor.
14. Baby Bag
Baby gear that is equally important to purchase is a diaper bag. It is advisable to choose a diaper bag with many compartments to make it easier for you to find the items you need when traveling. By having a well-organized diaper bag, you can avoid confusion when looking for essential items while outside the house.
15. Toys and Entertainment
Although newborns cannot yet play fully, some simple toys can stimulate their brain development. You can choose toys that are lightweight, easy to grasp, or that make soft sounds. In addition, reading books or fairy tales to your little one from an early age can also be a useful form of entertainment.
Beside this list, there are several additional items you might need, depending on your Little One's specific needs and your lifestyle. For example, if you have a car and plan to drive with the baby, a special baby car seat is essential to ensure their safety while in the car. Additionally, make sure this seat is properly installed according to your car's specifications.
Meanwhile, if you have to work or travel away from your little one, a breast pump is needed to express breast milk to ensure your little one can still receive enough breast milk intake when you are not nearby.
Now, you no longer need to be confused about sorting the list of baby supplies that need to be purchased. However, remember that every baby is an individual, and their needs may vary. If your little one is known to have special needs, such as allergies or certain sensitivities, consult with your doctor or child health expert about what items you need to buy. Don't forget to involve your husband in preparing these baby supplies. Hopefully, this preparation helps you get everything ready to welcome the baby into the world warmly and lovingly. Congratulations on welcoming a new member to your family!
