List of things to prepare for Newborn

While you prepare for a newborn, you should plan to set up everything the baby will need about two to three weeks before your due date, or sooner if the doctor feels your labor might be earlier. Assemble cribs, put together the changing table with supplies in convenient locations, and make sure to wash all of the things you'll want to use on the baby like clothes, wash cloths, diapers, spits cloths and baby towels. If you'd like to prepare for a newborn by painting or stenciling in the baby's room, you may want to plan to do this several months in advance of your due date, as opposed to just a few weeks before baby is born.

If you're new to parenting, you can also prepare for a newborn by taking some parenting classes, and in particular taking a class on breastfeeding can be very beneficial to new moms. Also interview some pediatricians and decide on the one you like. If you plan on using a diaper service, you should contact that service a few weeks before your due date. They will usually deliver diapers to you right away so that you'll have them on hand.



There are several ways to save money on baby items. Many items can be purchased second hand or through discount stores. Some items may be purchased by the case, such as disposable diapers. Suggestions for essential nursery equipment are:

• Federally approved car seat
• Crib or basinet/cradle (slats should be no more than 2-3/8 inches apart.)
• Bottles (ounce) and nipples
• Brush for cleaning bottles
• Large tote or diaper bag packed with:
• Several diapers
• Receiving blanket
• Change of clothes
• Plastic bag for soiled diapers
• Washcloth or baby wipe
• Diaper pail for cloth diapers
• Plastic lined garbage pail for disposable diapers
• Nursing Bras (2 cotton)
• Changing table or place to change diapers

Have a list of friends and/or family members you can call that can offer you advice or help you during the first few days after you bring your baby home. You don't need to call these folks unless you have to, but it helps to know where every one's number is in case you feel stuck or desperately need advice. Bringing home a baby is a wonderful but sometimes frightening experience and many people do need a little help at the onset. If you've taken classes, stocked the nursery and have assistance if you need it, you'll encounter less stress in the first few weeks of being a parent.