Bringing your baby home from the hospital is a momentous event, and preparation is key to making those first few days smoother for both you and your newborn. Having the right essentials in place ensures your baby’s safety, comfort, and your peace of mind. In this post, we’ll cover the 5 must-have items every parent should have ready before welcoming their baby home.
1. A Safe and Comfortable Crib
A crib is where your baby will spend a lot of their time, so it’s important to prioritize safety. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), a firm mattress and fitted sheet in a crib with no extra bedding helps reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
What to look for:
A crib that meets modern safety standards (look for JPMA certification).
A firm mattress that fits snugly with no gaps.
Avoid soft bedding, pillows, or toys in the crib for safety reasons.
Pro Tip: Make sure the crib is assembled well before your baby’s arrival. Check out our guide on How to Set Up the Perfect Nursery for more detailed crib setup tips.
2. A Stocked Changing Station
Diaper changes are frequent in the first few months, so having a fully stocked changing station makes life easier. Keep everything you need within arm’s reach to avoid leaving your baby unattended.
What to include:
Diapers in newborn and size 1.
Baby wipes, diaper cream, and extra clothes.
A diaper pail for easy disposal of soiled diapers.
Pro Tip: Opt for a portable diaper caddy to keep diaper-changing essentials accessible wherever you are.
3. A Comfortable Nursing Chair
Whether you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, a supportive nursing chair is a must. Long feeding sessions can be tiring, so having a comfortable chair will make feeding time more enjoyable.
What to look for:
A chair with good back support and comfortable armrests.
A side table nearby for water, snacks, and burp cloths.
Pro Tip: Position your chair in a quiet area to create a calm and peaceful feeding environment. For more tips on creating a feeding-friendly space, check out Healthy Children’s Guide to Nursing Spaces.
4. A Baby Monitor
Having a reliable baby monitor provides peace of mind, allowing you to keep an eye on your baby while they sleep. Monitors come in various forms, from audio-only to advanced video options with two-way communication.
What to look for:
A monitor witha both video and audio for full surveillance.
Night vision for monitoring in low light.
Two-way communication so you can soothe your baby remotely.
Pro Tip: Position the monitor safely out of your baby’s reach, yet with a clear view of the crib. If you're still undecided, Consumer Reports offers reviews on the best baby monitors for safety and clarity.
5. Baby Clothing Essentials
Having the right clothing ensures your baby is warm, comfortable, and safe. You’ll need a variety of items to handle quick changes, fluctuating temperatures, and keeping your newborn cozy.
What to include:
Soft cotton onesies (both long and short-sleeve).
Swaddle blankets for sleep and comfort.
Footed pajamas for easy night changes.
Pro Tip: Stock up on 10–15 onesies and sleepers so you're not constantly doing laundry.
Preparing for your baby’s arrival is an exciting and busy time. By ensuring you have these 5 essential items—a safe crib, stocked changing station, comfortable nursing chair, reliable baby monitor, and baby clothing essentials—you can make the transition home smoother. For more tips on preparing for your newborn, visit our Parenting Essentials
Comments