As a new parent, there are many things to think about and purchase for your little one. Whether you are buying for your own baby or a gift for someone else, there are some must-have items that will make life easier.
Purchasing all the right baby supplies can be expensive, but there are ways to keep your budget in check while also ensuring you have everything you need for your growing family. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
Buy economy-sized items and restock on essentials (baby wipes, diapers and training pants) in the months before your due date. You’ll save money in the long run and be ready for any changes in your family’s routine.
Diapers, Wipes & Training Pants
Your newborn will go through a lot of diapers! During the first few weeks, expect your newborn to use around 8 to 10 diapers a day! You can get diapers in all sizes, including newborn, and cloth diapers in a variety of styles. For cloth diapering, you’ll need a variety of different types and brands of cloth diapers, as well as diaper covers and fasteners.
You’ll need a good supply of baby wipes, unscented and alcohol-free. It’s important to note that some babies are sensitive to wipes.
A humidifier helps to keep your baby’s room a comfortable temperature for sleep. This product can be especially helpful if you live in a dry climate.
Toys and books that stimulate your baby’s senses are an important part of your baby’s development. From rattles and shakers to musical toys, there are lots of options to choose from.
During the first few months of your baby’s life, they will need lots of toys to keep them busy. You may want to get toys that encourage tummy time, such as a soft bouncer. Toys that engage baby’s hands, like blocks or stuffed animals, are also popular.
Other items that you’ll need to help with your breastfeeding journey include a breast pump, milk storage bags and a bottle warmer. You can find these at Costco, along with a variety of other breastfeeding tools and accessories.
Formula, bottle and nipple brushes are also great for making your breastfeeding journey a lot easier. You can get these from your healthcare provider or online, and you can also buy them at Costco to restock when needed.
If you have a large family, consider stocking up on several extra bottles of formula. This will save you a lot of hassle, as you won’t have to constantly buy more bottles of formula for your baby!
Be sure to look for formula that is infant-friendly, with no added sugar or preservatives. This will keep your baby safe and reduce their risk of developing allergies.
You can also get a bottle brush that will help you clean the inside of your bottles, so they’re always sterilized. You can also find a bottle warmer that will help heat your baby’s formula evenly, so you don’t have to keep refilling it.