You’ve carried your tiny bundle of joy home with you.
Congrats! You’re probably wondering what to do now and how to properly care for your little one.
Though caring for a newborn may be one of life’s most rewarding and unforgettable experiences, you may be unsure of what to do and how to give your child your undivided attention.
To care for a newborn, you must understand how to provide your infant with the rest, nourishment, and care that he or she requires, as well as a good dose of love and devotion.
Here are some of the most critical items you’ll need in your early days with your infant to get you started.
Diapers
Diapers are one of the necessities for your infant. You’ll need to be a diaper-changing master, and fast, whether you’re using a cloth or disposable diapers to care for your infant.
Whatever way you choose — and you should make that decision before bringing your baby home — be prepared to change your kid’s diaper roughly 10 times each day.
A clean diaper, fasteners (if you’re using cloth diapers), diaper ointment (for rashes), a container of warm water, a clean towel, and some cotton balls or diaper wipes are all things you’ll need.
Get rid of your baby’s soiled diaper. Wipe your baby’s genital area with water and a washcloth.
Place the front of the clean diaper between your baby’s legs and over his or her stomach.
Then, wrap the adhesive strips around the diaper and fix them securely to keep it in place.
Change your baby’s diaper as soon as you detect it’s dirty to avoid diaper rash.
When purchasing a diaper bag, look for one with several pockets and compartments for storing various necessities.
Also, keep in mind that your diaper bag doubles as a handbag, so choose one that’s big enough to fit your wallet, keys, phone, and other personal stuff.
Prams and Strollers
The appropriate pram may make a big difference in how easy and accessible your baby’s everyday life is.
Consider your demands before purchasing a pram: will you be bringing your kid for walks in the park or hikes in the woods?
Consider the weight of the pram, particularly if you don’t reside on the first floor.
For instance, on Little Lou Baby, you’ll find a variety of solutions that will not only keep your baby comfortable and safe but will also fit you as a parent.
Wheel size, suspension, weight, and dimensions are all factors to consider when purchasing a pram.
Cradle and Mattress
A cradle or bassinet is a good alternative for the first few months if you want your infant to sleep in your room at night.
You’ll need to acquire a crib for the infant when he or she grows older. When buying a crib, make sure it complies with the most recent safety regulations.
Most cribs do not come with mattresses, so you’ll have to buy one separately.
Choose a mattress that provides adequate back support and is not too soft. Make sure it fits snugly in the crib and that there is no gap around the mattress where the baby’s limbs or head may become trapped.
Also, make sure your mattress is waterproofed and that you have multiple sheets on hand in case you need to change your baby’s bedding.
Baby Car Seat
The infant car seat may be used as a baby carrier as well. You may buy stroller frames that the infant car seat can snap into so you don’t have to carry the car seat with you all the time, which can be very hefty.
If you decide to purchase a stroller for your baby car seat, check sure it is compatible with your infant carrier.
In the automobile, you may also utilize a car seat base to conveniently and safely snap in the car seat.
Baby Clothes
Your baby doesn’t need anything spectacular in the first few weeks, so stick to simple, plain, budget-friendly attire.
It’s advised to avoid buying too many newborn clothes because your kid will outgrow them quickly.
At the same time, you’ll be changing outfits frequently because newborn apparel may get filthy rapidly. 5-7 onesies or other soft garments, 3-4 baby sleepers or sleep bags, and 5-8 pairs of baby socks are likely to be required.
Baby Bathing Products
Doctors recommend giving your infant a sponge bath for the first week or two until the umbilical cord comes off.
After that, you don’t have to bathe your baby every day; three times a week should be enough since bathing your child too often might cause their skin to grow dry and sensitive.
You’ll need 3-5 baby washcloths, a couple of hooded towels, a baby sponge, a bottle of baby bath wash, a bottle of baby lotion, and, of course, a baby bathtub for washing your kid.
Keep in mind that infant skin is extremely delicate, so you’ll want to use newborn-friendly soap and lotion.
Caring for your newborn should not be overwhelming or stressful if you follow the appropriate directions and follow excellent advice.
Rather, it is a pleasurable experience that will leave both you and your child content and relaxed.