Besides the obvious baby gear such as a crib, car seat, diapers, wipes, etc, there were a few baby items you will be surprised to find extremely important to have from day one. For anybody expecting a baby and trying to figure out what to register for, here are a few hints.
Bouncy Chair: A bouncy seat or a swing in which your baby can safely lie while swaddled up like a little burrito is of the utmost importance for day time naps. A simple seat with few bells and whistles will do the trick. New parents may be surprised how much their baby sleeps during the day, having a portable device where your baby can sleep is very convenient.
Breast Pump (for breastfeeding moms): Having a good quality breast pump on hand as soon as your baby is born is essential. Even if you do not plan on pumping milk for bottle feeding, there are other situations in which a breast pumps can help with. For example, when your milk first comes in (usually one to four days after the birth of your baby) you may become engorged. This can be painful and make it difficult for your baby to latch on. Pumping for just a few minutes can reduce swelling and enable your baby to latch on properly.
Swaddling Blankets: Not all baby blankets are created equal. Of the many blankets you may receive at your baby shower, not all will be good for swaddling. A good swaddling blanket needs to be a square, made out of cotton and it can't be too stretchy like a knit blanket. Tightly swaddling your baby may be the key to help your baby sleep longer at night, so be sure you have a couple great swaddling blankets from the start.
Baby Bath tub with Infant Sling: Some hospitals will send you home with a small bucket for bathing your newborn. When using a small bucket or the sink for bathing an infant can be extremely difficult and even scary for new parents. Investing in a baby bath with an infant sling/hammock that suspends the baby in the tub is the perfect solution.
Jogger stroller/car seat system: If you are really serious about getting out and walking or running with your new baby to help lose that pregnancy weight, then a jogger stroller with a car seat that fits on to it is a must. You may have to wait on using a standard umbrella stroller until your baby has full head control. A jogger stroller/car seat combo system offers the support of the car seat for your baby and the ruggedness of a jogger stroller for you. While your baby is zero to four months old, you will find that pushing them in a stroller along even slightly bumpy surfaces is too rough for their little necks. Having your baby in the car seat helps to support their head and neck and enable you to get the much needed exercise and fresh air.
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