Expectant moms and dads are usually eager to get the nursery ready for the new baby. The walls are often painted, and baby equipment, such as the crib, dresser, changing table and rocking chair are in place. Now it’s time to shop for the smaller essentials, also known as the layette. Add some of these items to baby registries and wish lists.
For the Nursery
After the crib is set up, it’s time to look for linens that are comfortable for the baby, match the décor and are durable to last through infancy.
- 3 or 4 crib sheets specifically designed for baby bedding
- At least 2 blankets, also specifically designed for babies
- A couple of waterproof pads to put between the sheets and the mattress
- Curtains, shades or blinds to darken the room so the baby will sleep better (optional)
- 4 to 6 receiving blankets for swaddling
Baby Clothes
Babies grow quickly, so don’t purchase an abundance of newborn clothes. Some babies are born too big to wear the newborn size, so don’t remove the tags or packaging until she’s born.
- At least 6 onesies in natural cotton
- 4 to 6 footed sleepers in lightweight, medium or heavy fabric, depending on the time of year and climate
- At least 1 bonnet with a brim to protect his eyes from the sun
- 6 to 8 pairs of socks and booties in lightweight, medium or heavy cotton, depending on the season
- At least 1 sweater or hooded jacket
- At least 2 blanket sleepers
- For colder climates a bunting or snowsuit
- At least 1 stretch knit hat
- A coming-home outfit that is soft, stretchy and comfortable
- 6 to 8 bibs
- Diapers
Bath Items
Baby skin is very soft, tender and sometimes sensitive. Bath items made specifically for infants are preferable.
- 2 to 4 hooded towels for wrapping the baby after a bath
- 6 to 8 baby wash clothes
- Infant body wash and shampoo – Some baby product companies make all-in-one that can be used for the body and the hair.
- Infant bathtub – Most parents prefer the type that fits in the sink to make bathing the baby easier.
Baby Feeding Items
If the baby is breastfed, the mother will need at least 2 nursing bras and some pads to prevent the milk from leaking onto her clothes. Bottle-fed babies need more equipment.
- At least 6 bottles with nipples and rings
- Bottle brush
- Dishwasher safe basket to clean the nipples and other bottle accessories
- At least 6 burp cloths
- Formula recommended by the pediatrician
Toys, Books, Plush and Comfort Items
Although not essential, it's always nice to have something fun and comforting for the baby.
- 2 or 3 infant approved plastic toys that the baby can comfortably hold in her tiny hands
- At least 1 plush toy, such as a teddy bear or other stuffed animal – Look for infant approved plush toys with sewn eyes rather than buttons that the baby can remove and choke on.
- Board books and bathtub plastic books
- Rattles that are infant approved
- Infant size pacifiers (optional)
Baby Toiletries
Some hospitals send new parents home with a bag of toiletries to get them started. It’s nice to have certain things on hand, in case they don’t.
- Petroleum jelly
- Sterile gauze
- Infant Tylenol
- Thermometer
- Bulb syringe
- Baby nail clippers
- Gas drops if the pediatrician approves
Other Baby Layette Items
Most additional baby layette items are optional. They have been designed for comfort and convenience.
- Baby play yard – Some have more than one purpose, such as bassinet, changing table or playpen.
- Infant swing
- Bouncing seat
- Mobile
- Diaper bag
- Baby sling or baby pouch for the parent to be hands free
- Baby monitor
Gift Items
Grandparents, family members and friends are likely to want to buy some things for the new baby. If there’s nothing left on the registry or if the person wants to get something not on the list, there are other options.
Personalized items are always nice. If the baby’s name isn’t known before he’s born, this can be delivered shortly after he arrives in his new home.
- Personalized baby blanket
- Engraved silver spoon
- Engraved silver sippy cup
- Embroidered blanket or sweater
Most new parents appreciate baby gift baskets or tote bags filled with essential newborn baby accessories. They can be filled with any of the items on the lists and decorated with a bow.
What Babies Need
One of the most common questions from those who haven’t experienced bringing a baby home from the hospital is, “What do babies need?” Their basic needs are met with food, warmth and love, but there are plenty of other baby products and items that will make life easier.
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