Essential Newborn Supplies

Diapers. Who doesn't think of those? But first-time parents sometimes woefully underestimate the number needed. If you go with disposable, be prepared for a big expense. If you go with re-usable diapers, be prepared for a lot of washing. Until someone invents a really keen device, there's no perfect solution.

Changing brings up lots of other items that will be needed. Keeping your newborn clean is essential. That means lots of very soft cloths that absorb water well. A few smaller ones, including cotton balls, to swab on alcohol, oil or lotion from time to time can be lifesavers.

That leads us to medical supplies. Babies often get small, temporary conditions that will go away on their own like heat rash. But easing their discomfort is something every parent will want to do.

A little doctor-approved itch cream can be handy. Don't forget the petroleum jelly, so useful in small sections for easing rough or dry spots. During the first few days of newborn life the umbilical is the route most often used by germs to cause infection. A little antibacterial ointment is a must. Gauze, a few bandage strips in various sizes and a little low-stick adhesive tape are good first-aid kit items, too.

For that occasional mucous plug, have on hand a working nasal aspirator. These little 'turkey baster'-style devices are great. Sometimes that congestion signals a cold, though. Have a working digital thermometer in the cabinet.

Even everyday living will bring the need for a number of other essential newborn supplies.

Beyond diapers, many other items of clothing are critical for helping the newborn regulate temperature. Their hormone systems are still 'learning' to adapt to the outside world, so they chill or get too hot easily. A range of lightweight to heavier items can solve the problem with ease.

Soft t-shirts with large head openings and armholes are a must. Babies spit up, soil themselves and invariably get leaned up against things that make them dirty. You'll be changing them often.

Have a variety of warmer items on hand, too. A cloth head covering is great. Like anyone, babies lose a lot of heat through their scalps. A little bonnet or hat can also keep harsh sunlight off the head and face. A baby's skin is very sensitive to UV. Very brief periods of gentle sunshine is healthy. Harsh rays for extended periods are a sure bet to cause problems.

One of those potential problems is heat rash. Get a set of 'onesies', little one piece suits that have a flap to allow for easy diaper changing. Keep them loose, but get ones that have gathered wrist and ankle sleeves. Problem solved.

Those can also help solve the problem at the opposite end of the temperature scale. Cool breezes, or just low temperatures in general, can give the newborn a chill. Having adjustable clothing keeps them warm, but not too warm.

Don't forget the booties!

Baby Gear You Can't Live Without

Well, ok, it's confession time. You (and your baby) can live without many of the items below. But even apart from the natural desire of parents to make their baby's life as easy as possible, many of these help ensure their health and safety.

You'll need an infant car seat, even if you don't intend the baby to go out often. Many hospitals will require you to have one before they'll release mother and child. If you don't have one, some will supply you with a temporary. They have their insurance regulations to follow, you know!

You'll want to carry your baby around, but your arms will get tired. A good strap-on baby carryall will do wonders for you and your child. Like a good backpack (whether worn on the back or front), it will free your arms and save your back. They're also great for encouraging the bonding between parent and child that comes from physical closeness.

An adjunct to that is a good stroller. Even with a good carryall, babies can get heavy after a while. A sturdy stroller with a braking mechanism for hills and near the curb is always useful. Having one with an adjustable hood allows for the right amount of shading and sunlight filtering, too.

Both at home and away, a good diaper changing station is never wasted. A portable one will help you during those spontaneous moments that always seem to come at the most inconvenient time.

There are times when you want to rest your baby to relieve your arms and still want the baby to get a great view. A bassinet or cradle with adjustable arms is the perfect solution. Naturally, you'll want one that is ultra-sturdy. Make sure there are no sharp corners and look for ones that provide a means of securing blankets, buttoning in cushions and other handy add-ons.

As your baby develops, providing him or her with a means to exercise those burgeoning muscles promotes health and psychological well-being. A rocking chair with straps is useful. A bouncy seat with musical danglers is another good option. Make sure that any noisemakers are removable. You don't want to drive yourself crazy!

Speaking of music, a good CD or iPod-type player with speakers can be a great addition to the 'baby toolkit'. White noise helps some young ones deal with colic. Classical music helps young minds develop. Gentle sea sounds and lilting tunes provide a peaceful atmosphere that will help both child and parent.

Of course, there are a whole range of toys that serve a number of good purposes. Babies are exploratory by nature. Providing safe things that will go into the mouth, but only so far, is one category. Building blocks of various sizes help the developing mind learn about shape, volume and other basics. Sound-making toys help them correlate self-initiated movement with the resulting noise. Learning cause and effect early is a big boon.

Don't forget to stock the medicine cabinet with that whole range of needed items for emergencies!