What to buy for a newborn baby: list

First things for a newborn baby

Katya Smetanova, chief child psychologist of the “Grudnichok” portal and part-time mother of a one-year-old son, took on the difficult task of compiling a list of necessary items. Since the range of children's products is truly limitless, we asked Katya to analyze her experience and take into account only those things that we really couldn’t do without. The result was a list of only the most necessary things, divided into categories: clothes/bathing/walking and so on. This is the minimum set of the first things a newborn needs.

And at the end of the article we have prepared a bonus: a checklist with a list of what you need. You can print it out and check off the items you need in the store so you don’t forget anything. Let's get started!

A list of things for a newborn that you can download to your computer

When everything you need is at hand, mom doesn’t get nervous or upset. A calm woman produces more milk, so the baby remains happy, full and healthy. Don't put off packing until later: Even if you believe in the omens about not buying things before giving birth, save and print the list below to give to your husband or relatives.

Clothes and diapers for newborns

In the first month of life, clothes with long sleeves and trousers are required (regardless of the season), since newborns do not yet know how to maintain a constant body temperature, and they need to be warmed up. Closed sleeves protect the child from scratching himself. You can choose the following kits:

• Baby vests + rompers. For us, these were comfortable clothes for the first time. Newborn babies don't really like to dress over their heads.
• Bodysuit with long (up to a month) and short sleeves (after a month, if you have a summer baby or it’s hot at home) + panties
• Slip-on overalls with buttons are also very comfortable for newborns. They have a fastener between the legs, which allows you to change the diaper without completely undressing.

Newborn babies grow quickly. VERY quickly, so you shouldn’t buy 10 cute onesies of the same size, most likely the baby won’t have time to wear them properly. A normal supply of clothes is about 5-6 changes of rompers and vests, and everything else can be even less. But there are never too many diapers in the first months.

In terms of the warmth of the fabric, we focus on the season. If it’s a warm summer outside, we focus on cotton fabrics; if it’s winter, we focus on a warm flannel. In addition, the child will initially spend most of his time at home. How warm is it in your apartment?

Here is a sample list of clothes for a newborn baby:

A separate point about diapers:

• Disposable diapers - at least 10-12 disposables per day
• If you plan to use gauze - 13-15 gauze per day.

How to choose a clothing size for a newborn?

Choose your clothing size according to the table depending on the results of your last ultrasound. Usually:

• items of size 50-56 are taken if the ultrasound showed a baby of average weight
• and 56-62 if a large child is expected

Click on the picture to enlarge

Stroller

The next thing you need to buy for a newborn baby is a stroller for walking. After all, the baby needs to breathe fresh air as often as possible. Therefore, the stroller should be comfortable to use for both you and your baby - after all, you will spend a lot of time walking. You should never skimp on a stroller (as well as a car seat if you have a car). For the first months of your baby’s life, you will need a cradle stroller, then it can be replaced with a stroller. Many people buy a transforming stroller right away to save money - but you need to keep in mind that they are very heavy.

Mandatory shopping list items for a newborn to properly organize walks:

• stroller-carrycot with rain cover included;
• car seat (if you have a car);
• insulated envelope that fits in the stroller (for the cold season);
• It is also advisable to buy an ergo backpack or sling (to expand the possibilities of your movement with your child around the city);
• anti-mosquito net for the stroller (especially in hot periods);
• a large bag for children's things (which will be convenient to place under the bottom of the stroller during walks).

Children's room

The arrangement of a children's room depends primarily on the capabilities of each family - does the apartment have a separate room, or are you planning to allocate a place for the baby in your bedroom? One more thing - are you planning to co-sleep or will you put your baby in a separate crib?

Regardless of this, there are basic things that will be difficult to do without:

A place to sleep. This could be a large crib with a pendulum mechanism, an additional cot for safe co-sleeping, or a special children's cocoon for sleeping in the parent's bed. Some parents place the baby in their bed without a cocoon, but this is not safe, at least in the first 3 months.

Mattress. Many cribs are already sold with it, but there are models where the mattress is not provided. When choosing a mattress for a crib, remember that it must be rigid enough for the baby’s spine to form correctly. Most often, mothers choose mattresses with coconut filling. It would be good if the kit comes with a removable waterproof cover that can be washed if necessary.

Bed linen and bumpers for the crib. If your baby sleeps alone, take care of his bedding in advance. Bright colors and pictures can excite the baby and disturb his sleep, so it is better to choose solid sets of calm colors. The sides should not be too soft, and must be securely attached to the sides of the crib. Choose bed linen and bumpers made from natural materials. Children under 2 years old do not need a pillow, because their head-to-body proportions differ from those of an adult.

Place for clothes and changing. There are chests of drawers with drawers and a built-in changing table, there are separate portable changing tables that can be placed even on your bed (unless, of course, you are afraid that the baby will pee everything around), there are soft inserts for the changing table that can also be used on any flat surface.

Blanket. Flannelette or knitted blanket. It is convenient to cover your child with it at home and on a walk in the warm season. Can be replaced with a sleeping bag or envelope.

Waterproof sheet with elastic or oilcloth. Sometimes accidents happen in the form of leaking diapers, and such a sheet or oilcloth saves the situation - you don’t have to wash and dry the entire bed. In principle, if you use disposable diapers, you can put them under your baby.

(Click to expand)

Optional things that will make your life a lot easier in the first month of a newborn’s life:

Hanging organizer. This is an optional purchase, but if you're short on space, you can buy or make your own hanging organizer with pockets and hang it on your crib. There you can place creams, cotton swabs, napkins, an aspirator and other small items so that it is all at hand.

Humidifier - if the apartment has dry, hot air, be sure to use a humidifier. The mucous membrane in the nose of newborns is very delicate and dries out easily. Because of this, pathogenic bacteria can enter the baby's body.

Mobile, night light and canopy for the crib. These purchases are definitely not mandatory, but they add coziness and convenience. By the way, you can make a mobile with your own hands, it’s not difficult at all.

Baby Monitor/Video Baby Monitor. The most optional of purchases. However, if you have a large house or go out of town, a baby monitor or video baby monitor can make your life a lot easier.

What is a baby monitor? (Click to expand text).

A baby monitor is a small receiver that is installed next to a baby's crib. The “walkie-talkie” that comes with it allows the mother to hear that the baby has woken up, even if she is, for example, in the kitchen. The video baby monitor is equipped with a screen and camera so that you can not only hear, but also see what your baby is doing.

A small life hack for those who need a video nanny occasionally, but don’t want to spend money on it. You will need an unnecessary smartphone and 10 minutes of free time. Install a messenger application with video calling capabilities (for example, Skype) on both your phones. Register two different accounts, it will take you 5 minutes. Now make a video call on your main phone, and leave the second one near your baby’s bed, so that it can be seen on your phone screen. Don't forget to turn off the microphone on the phone you still have, so as not to scare your child with loud noises! Ready. You can go about your business without worrying about missing your baby's wake-up call.

Things to take home from the hospital in winter

For discharge in winter, a set of clothes, an elegant envelope or ribbon and a blanket should be ready. Let's consider the requirements for these items in winter:

Set of clothes

When being discharged, the baby must wear a diaper, then a slip or bodysuit with rompers. If it is very cold outside, you can wear socks and a blouse. Don't forget the hats! You will need 2 hats - one thin knitted one, and a warm woolen one on top, without ties. The baby is then “packed” into overalls, wrapped in a blanket and tied with ribbon.

Blanket

It should not only be beautiful and colorful, but also have very important properties: hygroscopicity, softness, hypoallergenicity, lightness. It is important that your child's first blanket is made from environmentally friendly materials. Optimal size: 120x90.

Envelope for discharge

Many people prefer an envelope instead of a blanket. Of course, an envelope is beautiful, but not practical. It is used once and is not cheap. However, if you still decide to buy an envelope, then for the winter choose an insulated one with a synthetic padding lining.

Pay attention to the top layer of fabric: it should not be slippery. There are times when silk or satin envelopes containing a baby slip out of the hands of adults!

Don't forget to pack a spare set of clothes and diapers in a separate bag and try to keep it close to you. On the road, the baby will most likely fall asleep, but the unexpected may happen and you will have to change his clothes right in the car.

List of things to pack for a walk with a newborn

Stroller for walking. By the way, at first you can put your newborn to sleep in it even in an apartment. Strollers can be regular or transformable (some or “3 in 1”). In transformable strollers, the upper part can be replaced - from lying to sitting, as the child grows. The “2 in 1” model usually includes a cradle (lying unit) and a walking unit (sitting unit, for ages 6-18 months); the “3 in 1” model also includes a car seat for the safe transportation of a newborn in the car. The car seat can be removed from the car and also installed on the stroller chassis if you go to the supermarket by car.

Mattress for stroller , if not included

Overalls or envelope - winter or demi-season depending on the time of year

Bag for mom (often included with the stroller)

Mosquito net and rain cover for the stroller (often included with the stroller)

Hand muff (winter)

If you travel by car, use a car seat with the ability to lie down .

If you prefer a sling to a stroller, you will need

The sling itself

Babywearing jacket for carrying a child in the cold season.

Preparing a newborn for a walk in winter

How much should a 4 month old baby weigh?

It is not recommended to avoid walking with your baby even in frosty weather. This is useful for running security functions. When preparing for a walk with a newborn, you should know that the baby’s thermoregulation does not yet work. The choice of clothing must be approached taking into account the fact that the child is in a stroller, in a lying position and practically does not move. But wrapping yourself in 100 clothes is unacceptable. Overheating has negative consequences for a newborn, as does freezing.

Note! The first trip outside with a newborn should be made no earlier than a week after his birth, if the air temperature is not lower than 10°C. Children aged 3-6 months can be outside in temperatures down to -15°C. From six months to 1 year, babies can go outside if the thermometer shows down to -20°C.

The first exit to fresh air lasts no more than a quarter of an hour. Every day the walking time increases by 5 minutes and reaches 1.5-2 hours.

How to dress a child for a walk in winter depending on the weather

It is recommended to choose things for a newborn for the first time in winter, taking into account what weather conditions prevail in the region. If frosts are rare in the southern regions in winter, then buying 5 woolen blouses or overalls made of sheep’s wool is a waste of money. The baby will be hot in such clothes.

Pediatricians recommend following the principle of layering when dressing newborns. The choice of “thickness” of clothing will depend on the presence of wind, precipitation and temperature outside. It should be taken into account that the baby is in a closed stroller, where the wind does not blow, it additionally warms him.

1. Thaws are characterized by frequent temperature changes. It can be hot in the sun, cold in the shade. It is recommended to dress the baby as follows: diaper, light sleepsuit, warm socks, cotton cap. Put on a fleece slip and a thin hat as the second layer. Put on a demi-season jumpsuit over everything. If you only have warm overalls in your wardrobe, then you don’t need to wear a fleece slip. It is also recommended to insulate the stroller with a blanket and take another one with you in case of cold weather.
2. When walking in -10°C, the baby must be dressed in the same way as in a thaw, with a few exceptions. Insulate your feet additionally with booties, and instead of a light hat, wear a warmer cap with ties. The cap should fit snugly to the ears. Only winter overalls are taken. Tie a scarf around your neck. Insulate the stroller with a blanket and take the second one with you.
3. In frosts above -10°C, the set of clothes for a child will not change. The only thing is that the baby needs to be covered with a warm blanket immediately. If mom feels uncomfortable in extreme cold, then a walk can be replaced by ventilating the room.

If the baby is warm, his cheeks will be pink. Paleness and lethargy of the baby indicate that he is cold, redness of the face indicates overheating.

Important! You cannot check the baby's condition by touching his nose or hands. As a rule, they are almost always cold. A reliable result about whether the baby is cold or hot will be given by the back of the head.

Baby walking in a stroller in winter

How to choose an envelope or overalls for the cold season

In the list of what is necessary for a newborn for the first time in winter, parents include overalls or a warm envelope. Many mothers have recently given preference to warm envelopes. Its advantage is that it is much easier to put a baby in it; there is no need to thread the legs and arms. There are several types of envelopes. Which one to choose depends only on the preferences of the parents and the time of use.

1. In the form of a sleeping bag. Such an envelope is convenient and practical, packing takes a couple of minutes: you need to lay the dressed child down, fasten the zipper or rivets on the envelope. Some models have convenient functionality - the upper part can be shaped like a hood so that the baby is protected from the wind.
2. With adjustable size. These envelopes “grow” with the baby. There are models with slots for car seats, stroller seat belts or ropes for attaching to a sled.
3. Envelope with sleeves and hood. Such products have sleeves to which mittens are attached with buttons or sewn on. The bottom has the shape of a bag, which allows the baby to move his legs freely.

Winter overalls also have advantages. It’s easy to pick up the baby, his limbs are free. When choosing a jumpsuit, they are based not only on appearance. Parents need to pay attention to some features of the product:

1. Ease of putting on and taking off things. Models in which two front zippers located from the neck to the very bottom of the legs, or one oblique fastener, are considered the most advantageous. The clothing opens completely, all that remains is to place the baby in it and thread the limbs into the sleeves and legs.
2. To avoid pinching the chin, a special fabric corner should be sewn into the collar on top of the zipper.
3. The back of the overalls should be perfectly flat. There should be no beads, stripes or other elements that put pressure on the baby’s back.
4. The legs of the winter overalls must have fastened booties. There are models with closed legs.
5. The elastic bands of the sleeves should be moderately tight.
6. The hood is medium sized to fit a warm hat underneath. Be sure to have a drawstring or drawstring.
7. The presence of a low collar at the neck of the overalls. It should not cover the baby's mouth or squeeze the chin.
8. It is worth choosing a jumpsuit with a large size, because the baby grows quickly. Approximately, outerwear for a newborn should be taken for a height of 62 cm.

Winter envelope and overalls

Practical models of overalls with a detachable lining. They can be worn in spring or autumn and are more convenient to wash.

What else will be useful for a walk?

The list of additional things for the walk includes:

• pacifier for baby's sleep;
• handkerchief and paper napkins;
• raincoat in case of unexpected bad weather;
• warm blanket or blanket.

In cold weather, mom should take care of herself. It would be a good idea to take a thermos with hot tea.

Important! Using wet wipes, changing your baby's clothes, or giving water from a bottle in winter is strictly prohibited. This can lead to a cold or hypothermia.

List of items for bathing newborns

Bath or basin for bathing. Until the umbilical wound has healed, it is recommended to bathe the child in a basin. There are regular basins, as well as models with various slides and hammocks (made of fabric and plastic) for safe bathing of the baby. When the navel is completely healed, you can bathe the baby in a large bath.

A towel with a hood so as not to overcool the baby when you take him out of the warm bath.

Baby shampoo, shower gel or baby soap.

A sponge or mitten made of soft material.

Water thermometer

Salts and soothing herbs (as recommended by your pediatrician).

What to buy for a newborn for walks:

1. stroller;
2. rain cover for stroller;
3. mosquito net for stroller;
4. mattress for the stroller (if it is not included with the stroller);
5. car seat (preferably with a carrying function; 0-13 kg);

Things that might come in handy

1. sling;
2. baby carrier or basket (for example, if you don’t have a car)
3. stroller pendant (toys on a string).

Feeding

Chest

Nursing bra or top

Breast pads - buy one pack and see if you need them

Bottles for water and expressed milk. Breastfed babies do not need water, but if the apartment has hot, dry air and there is no way to humidify it, additional water may be required. It may also be needed if your baby experiences diarrhea and dehydration.

Optional purchases that make life a lot easier:

Nursing clothes are comfortable for mom

Nursing pillow - not a necessary item, but adds comfort

Breast pump - will help if there is too much milk, or vice versa, if you need to strain out stagnation or create a supply of milk

Milk storage bags - if you plan to go away

Teas to improve lactation - if necessary

Artificial

Formula (check with your pediatrician)

Measuring spoon (usually included in the package with the mixture)

Bottles for water and mixture 3-5 pieces

Bottle nipples (with a small hole so that the baby has time to satisfy the sucking reflex)

Bottle sterilizer

Bottle warmer

Thermos

Baby dish soap and bottle brush

Dummy

Things for the home

So you've arrived home! Remember this moment - it is from here that a new life, full of miracles and surprises, begins. In addition to joys, there will be many worries, which a list of things for a newborn in winter will help you alleviate. You will now spend 90% of your time at home, so it is so important to have all the necessary items of clothing on hand.

If you plan to swaddle your baby, you will need:

• Cap or cap;
• 10 flannelette diapers;
• 10 flannel diapers;
• 3-5 panties or rompers or slip;
• 2-3 pairs of socks;
• 3-5 vests.

Pants, undershirts or slips will only be required for the duration of the air baths.

If swaddling is not for you, then consider the following list:

• Cap or cap;
• 20 pants;
• 10 pairs of socks;
• 3-5 light vests (knitted or chintz);
• 3-5 insulated blouses (knitted with added wool or flannelette);
• Sleepwear (slip or bodysuit + rompers). You can use a sleeping bag - this way you will be sure that the baby will not freeze.

Olga shares her experience: “When my child was born, I bought him at least ten vests, eight of which were not even unpacked. But there was always a shortage of pants and diapers, so I recommend that expectant mothers buy more rompers and fewer baby vests.”

Things to sleep

Pay special attention to things for sleeping. In winter, they should be as soft, comfortable and warm as possible. Make sure that there are no dangerous elements, hard seams or zippers on your clothing. Do not buy clothes for newborns with seams or fasteners on the back, because he spends most of his time in this position. If it's warm at home, a bodysuit will do.

Sleeping area

A crib is a must, because it is not only a place to sleep, but also a playground for play and development; it is a child’s own little world. Therefore, it is important to choose the right crib. So, a list of things to organize a newborn’s sleep:

• Cot;
• Coconut mattress;
• Bed linen (2 sets);
• Covering the crib (soft sides);
• Medical oilcloth for the crib.

If you don’t want to buy a crib in advance, we still recommend going to a children’s store, choosing the model you like and taking a photo of it. This will make it easier for dad or relatives to acquire such an important attribute for a newborn.

Air conditioning equipment

Humidifier

Many people know that in winter the air in the apartment is dry, but not all new parents are aware of how this is harmful for the newborn. Due to low air humidity, the nasal mucosa dries out, which means its protective immune function is weakened - to retain and neutralize bacteria and viruses from the air. In addition, dried mucus forms crusts that prevent the baby from breathing; he often wakes up and has difficulty sucking the breast.

Air purifier

Clearing the air in a child's room of dust is very important in order to prevent allergies in a newborn.

Heater

You'll also need a heater if you can't guarantee that your utilities will work properly. Even if you live in a private house and can be sure that the fuel supply will be enough for the whole winter, still be on the safe side.

Room thermometer and hygrometer

A room thermometer is needed to be sure that the temperature in the newborn’s room is comfortable. In winter there are both relatively warm and very cold days, and the room temperature must be maintained at the same level.

A hygrometer is used to measure the humidity in a room. Two-in-one devices are now available for sale. This is a battery-powered electronic device that displays the current temperature and humidity.

For wakefulness and air baths, the optimal air temperature is +25°C, and for sleep about +20°C, and air humidity is 40-60%.

Dr. Komarovsky talks more about the climate in the nursery in his video:

Newborn baby hygiene

Diapers (10-15 pcs per day)

Cotton pads

Wet wipes for children

Sterile cotton wool

Cotton swabs with limiters

Means for treating the navel (as recommended by the pediatrician)

Pacifier (if you plan to use it)

Comb (not necessary for the first time)

Nail clippers or scissors

Sterile petroleum jelly

Cream with panthenol for diaper rash

Baby powder

Baby scales

Ksenia Danilenko : Manically weighing the baby after each feeding is additional stress for the mother, completely unnecessary for her, especially while lactation is establishing. If a child has full diapers and is gaining weight normally, it is not at all necessary to measure his weight gain every two hours by 20 grams.

Ksenia Moskaleva : Baby scales turned out to be absolutely useless for me. The children were recovering so much that it was visible to the naked eye. I think there is no point in buying them right away. If a child has a problem with weight gain and constant monitoring is needed, then they can always be rented from companies specializing in the rental of children's goods.

First aid kit

Thermometer

Plantex/fennel seeds for colic

Medicine pipette or special nipple

Syringe/aspirator for nasal cleaning

Antipyretic , allowed in the first months of life (consult your pediatrician when he comes to see you after the maternity hospital)

Sterile cotton wool

Sterile bandage

Hydrogen peroxide

Allergy medication

Zelenka (convenient in a marker)

First aid kit for newborns

Follow an important rule of caring for a newborn: the child must have everything individual. It is not allowed to dry it with dad's towel or use, for example, a shared bathing ladle.

Little children need constant care, which is impossible to provide without special means. Young fathers are often given ready-made first aid kits in stores with everything they need, but it’s cheaper to assemble them separately. We offer a detailed list:

• Hydrogen peroxide;
• Zelenka;
• Nozzle suction;
• Nasal spray with sea water;
• Cotton swabs;
• Sterile gauze or bandage;
• Pipettes;
• Thermometer for monitoring body temperature;
• Dry herbal infusions (chamomile, string, dill).

Peroxide, brilliant green, cotton swabs and a pipette will be needed to treat the umbilical wound. It heals on the 10-14th day of a newborn’s life.

A nozzle suction and nasal spray (it is better to use a special spray for newborns, such as Aquamaris Baby or Otrivin Baby) are necessary for hygiene of the nasal cavity. In winter, the apartment is very dry, and if there is no humidifier, then a nasal spray will be a real salvation.

Herbal infusions are useful for bathing a newborn. In the first weeks of life, you can not use soap, but use herbs if the baby is not allergic to them. This will help prevent your newborn's skin from becoming dry in winter.

On the recommendation of the local pediatrician, you can supplement the first aid kit with several more drugs and supplies, for example, antipyretics.

Irina, Verochka’s mother, 3 months old: “Verochka was born at the end of November, when ARVI was in full swing. My husband brought the infection home from work, sniffled for a couple of days and it all went away. And my daughter fell ill that night with a temperature of 38.7. All the nearest pharmacies were closed, my husband rushed around the city at 3 a.m. looking for a 24-hour pharmacy. Since then, we always have antipyretics in our medicine cabinet.”

Where to buy things for a newborn?

I’ll say a banal thing, but buy children’s clothes in trusted places . The best place is in Russia, since all goods that are imported into Russia by legal suppliers or produced in the country undergo mandatory certification . That is, they have been tested by physical and chemical indicators to ensure they are harmless to children.

When ordering children's products in person from abroad, you do so at your own peril and risk. Naturally, private mail does not undergo any certification at customs, and it is often not possible to find out whether the standards were complied with at the manufacturing plant (we are talking primarily about purchases on Aliexpress). There are known cases when Chinese hats not only painted children’s heads black, but also caused serious illnesses. The same can apply to tents in the transition - it is not known where these bright vests come from.

Bumpers for the crib

Lena Averyanova : Although the bumpers for the crib seem cute, they are actually not only useless, but also dangerous. In addition to the baby, only a mattress and a fitted sheet have the right to be in the crib. That's enough for him. It seems it's time to switch to the Finnish box system for children. Yes, in fact, sleeping in a box saves babies’ lives - there is nothing unnecessary in it, and its size does not allow babies to roll around and sleep on their stomachs, which is also extremely undesirable in the first months.

Olga Kulakova : All these bumpers and pillows in the Louis style turned out to be unnecessary. I put laundry in the crib, since the older ones slept with me until I was three years old, the youngest also sleeps and does not seem to be going to his own bed (although I secretly dream about it).

Bonus 1: Dowry

This item applies only to residents of the city of Moscow!
Free things that you will be given at the maternity hospital. (Click to expand) Starting from January 2021, the state has prepared a pleasant surprise for mothers and fathers with registration in Moscow - a dowry for the baby. Now you won't have to make some purchases. Upon discharge from the maternity hospital, you will receive a dowry box, which already contains many things necessary for the children.

Among them:

1. Box-box 1 pc.
2. Mattress 1 pc.
3. Fitted sheet 1 pc.
4. Flannelette blanket 100x118 1 pc.
5. Flannelette diaper 3 pcs.
6. Demi-season overalls 1 pc.
7. Bathing towel with mitten 1 set.
8. Short sliders:

• rr. 56 1 pc.
• rr. 62 1 pc.
• rr. 68–80 1 pc.

• Short sleeve bodysuit:
• rr. 62 1 pc.
• rr. 68–80 1 pc.

• rr. 56 1 pc.
• rr. 62 1 pc.
• rr. 68–80 1 pc.

• rr. 56 1 pc.
• rr. 62 1 pc.
• rr. 68–80 1 pc.

• rr. 56 1 pc.
• rr. 62–68 1 pc.

• 6–9 months 1 PC.

There are only 44 items that you can safely cross off your list!

List of required items

Which ones to take when leaving the maternity hospital?

Let's consider what things a child needs for discharge in winter:

• Outerwear – overalls or transformers.
• Discharge envelope or blanket.
• Warm hat.
• Clothes – suit (made of fleece or brushed knitwear).
• Booties.
• Underwear - cap.
• 2 diapers (warm and thin).
• Pampers or cloth diaper.
• Bodysuit or vest with rompers.
• Socks.
• Accessories – ribbon for a bow (pink for a girl and blue for a boy).

It is recommended to pre-wash all underwear with baby powder or soap, dry and iron - to minimize the likelihood of an allergic reaction in a newborn.

For the initial months

The list of recommended things for a newborn baby in winter for the first time includes:

• Diapers - 2-3 cotton, 2-3 flannel, about 90*110 cm in size - will be useful during bathing or washing and as bedding for the changing table and crib.
• Baby undershirts – warm (made of calico or footer) – 3-4 pcs., light (cotton) – 2 pcs., for babies, undershirts with ties or knitted bodysuits that combine undershirts and panties (with fasteners at the bottom) are best suited. .
• Slips or “men” - a bodysuit with buttons from the neck to the feet: flannelette with a hood (2-3 pieces) and cotton (a pair) - suitable as sleepwear and as an underwear for the street under the overalls.
• Diapers - in addition to disposable diapers, there are reusable analogues, differing in summer (with mesh) and winter (with a special removable insert made of microfiber or bamboo).
  Despite the cost-effectiveness and convenience of reusable diapers, in the first months of a child’s life, experts recommend using disposable diapers to avoid diaper rash, irritation and dermatitis on delicate skin.
• Romper with blouses (or bodysuit) - 2-3 sets of footer and 1-2 of knitwear - complement or replace slips, preferably models of rompers with a heel and a clasp on the shoulders.
• Cap – cotton – 1-2 pcs. (put on indoors after swimming), flannelette – 1-2 pcs. (Put under a hat for insulation and to avoid irritation).
• Hat – made of natural material (wool, sheepskin), choose a hat with ties so that the baby’s movements do not expose the head.
• Scratch mittens - a pair of outdoor and indoor ones (soft fabrics and natural yarn) - will insulate the baby's hands and protect him from injury and scratching with his own nails.
• Socks or booties - warm - 2 pairs (wool or fleece), light - 2-3 pairs.
• Overalls or transforming overalls - the advantages of a transformer are that it can be used as an envelope, overalls and jacket, thanks to its detachable elements.
  Down, holofiber, sheepskin, thermofil, shelter and others are used as insulation. Models with detachable fur lining are popular.
• Towels - several large ones from 75 to 120 cm (completely covering the baby) and a couple of small ones for wiping the face and hands after washing.
• Bibs - made of hypoallergenic fabric - at least 7 pieces, used during feeding and saves from additional washing of clothes.

Synthetics create a “greenhouse” effect and are contraindicated for children.

What does a child need in the first days of life?

As a result of the coronavirus outbreak and long-term quarantine restrictions, the lists of things required in the maternity hospital have been significantly reduced.

Hospitals are trying to thoroughly disinfect everything mothers bring in. In private clinics they simply provide the minimum set for a newborn.

The length of stay in the maternity hospital has also changed. If there is no threat to the health of the baby and mother, then many hospitals discharge the patient earlier than usual. It is not advisable to take a suitcase of things with you: what the baby needs in the first days of life will fit in a small bag.

1. Clothes, diapers, diapers.

Maternity hospitals usually have everything needed to accommodate a baby. However, experienced mothers recommend taking diapers and a blanket with you for discharge.

As clothing for the first time, it will be enough for a newborn to buy a hat, socks, a bodysuit, and undershirts with rompers. Even in state maternity hospitals, diapers are provided free of charge, but just in case, stock up on a pack of diapers.

What your discharge kit will be like depends on the season and weather conditions during this period.

In the summer heat, a vest or a light muslin diaper is enough. For a harsh winter, a fur envelope, overalls, insulated hat, warm socks and mittens are required.

2. For feeding.

Not everyone is able to start breastfeeding right away. Therefore, it is worth purchasing bottles marked “0m+” and nipples of different shapes in advance. Formulas in the maternity hospital are also provided free of charge, but it is better to buy a pack of high-quality nutrition from a trusted manufacturer.

3. For hygiene.

Bathing babies is not practiced in the maternity hospital. But there are times when a mother and child remain in the hospital for several weeks.

Therefore, prepare the essentials - dry and wet wipes designed specifically for the delicate skin of a newborn, baby micellar water. Neonatologists also recommend having a hypoallergenic diaper rash cream and wound-healing ointment with you (it will also be useful for the mother).

But there is no need to take disinfectants.

The maternity hospital must ensure a sanitary regime, so additional protection will not be required. The maximum you can take with you is an alcohol-free skin antiseptic.

Lists of what you need

Already in the first weeks of a baby’s life at home, he will need children’s furniture, care products, clothing and various accessories.

For sleep

• Crib. You should take care of purchasing a crib for your baby in advance, since he will settle there immediately after the maternity hospital. When choosing, you should evaluate the appearance of the crib, the material of manufacture, safety and functionality. To rock a baby, choose a crib with a pendulum or “arc” legs, which are removed when the child grows up. Some mothers can do without motion sickness or even consider this process harmful for the child; their choice is a simple bed with legs. Cots with an attached chest of drawers (with changing board and drawers) are comfortable, but take up a lot of space. For safe co-sleeping, there are add-on cots. Prices for cribs: simple - from 2500 rubles, pendulum - from 4200 rubles, attached - from 3000 rubles.

• It is more convenient for a mother to change her baby's clothes on a changing board , when she also has drawers with clothes at hand. It’s good when a chest of drawers includes not only drawers, but also shelves. You can put baby hygiene products on them and it is more convenient when they are in close proximity to the crib.
• A child needs a hard mattress; Lying on a dented surface can harm the baby’s still unformed spine. The mattress is usually chosen with coconut, bamboo, eucalyptus or a combination filling. The cost of a mattress for a baby is from 2000 rubles.
• Children's bedding : 2-3 sets (from 600 rubles per set). Diapers are usually placed on top of the sheets in the crib, which are then changed daily. Pediatricians do not recommend buying a pillow for a baby.
• Oilcloth . There is a regular “Soviet” one (60 rubles) or with a top fabric layer (about 100 rubles). The first type is easier to wash and dry, the second is more comfortable for the child. For wakefulness or changing a diaper, it is convenient to place the baby on disposable diapers.
• Bumper for crib (RUB 700+). The sides create a cozy atmosphere for the baby, for whom the crib is a large space, and he is used to feeling protected in his mother’s belly. When the child learns to roll over, the bumper will protect him from hitting the bars of the crib and from getting his arms and legs stuck. The sides also provide protection from drafts.
• Blanket . You will need several different ones: thin cotton;
• dense flannelette;
• warm with synthetic filling.

In addition to covering while sleeping, blankets are useful for placing on a changing table, in a stroller, crib, or sled. A cotton or wool blanket should not be used for babies: there is a risk of dust mites in them, which will likely cause allergies.

A children's blanket can be purchased at a price of 600 rubles.

For swimming

1. Baby bath costs from 350 rub. It is not recommended to bathe a newborn in a shared bath; for this purpose, choose a plastic bath. Such a bath may already have a “slide” - the baby is placed on it during water procedures.

   
   Newborn bathtub with slide included

2. For a bathtub without a built-in bathtub , you can purchase a fabric or insertable plastic one. From the age of six months, a child can be placed for bathing in a special plastic seat with suction cups (it is installed in a large bathtub). Also, special neck circles are sold for infants, with which they swim in a common bath.
3. A soft cotton towel with a “corner” (average price 600-1000 rubles), which often includes a bathing mitt. Thermometer for measuring the temperature in the bath (electronic or alcohol). Ordinary mercury cannot be used for these purposes!
4. Children's shampoo, bathing product (from 60 rub.). You cannot purchase 3+ products for a newborn or for the “whole family,” even if the composition does not contain aggressive ingredients. Baby's skin is very sensitive. By the way, some children are allergic to bathing herbs.
5. A grate for a bathtub , on top of which a bathtub is placed and bathing accessories are placed.
6. Plastic bucket.

For feeding

Purchases for a newborn (the list will be useful if the baby is transferred to artificial or mixed nutrition) are supplemented with feeding attributes.

Feeding utensils and accessories:

• Two bottles with a volume of 125 ml and two with a volume of 240 ml (when the child will need 150 ml of formula per feeding). Bottle nipples must be replaced monthly.
• Sterilizer or suitable sized container for boiling bottles.
• Ladle - to heat water for diluting dry food.
• Bottle warmer (optional).

It is better to buy a double-sided brush, where the wide brush is used for washing bottles, and the narrow one is used for nipples.

Bottle brush with a special nipple attachment

To prepare the mixture, you need to use bottled baby water. It is better to buy the mixture based on the recommendations of a pediatrician.

For games

A baby who is only a few days old does not need toys yet, but after a couple of weeks it is worth hanging a mobile (musical carousel) on the crib and showing bright rattles.

The baby will be able to hold a toy in his hand when he is closer to 3 months, but he will be able to react by moving his eyes, turning his head, and smiling earlier. Manufacturers offer a wide selection of hanging toys that produce different sounds and feel with different textures, which contributes to the sensory development of the child.

Transportation/Carrying

The baby will face the need to travel when he goes home from the maternity hospital. If the weather is good and the baby is feeling normal, pediatricians recommend going for walks within a few days. Therefore, purchasing a car seat and stroller is a top priority.

A special size mattress is placed in the stroller. The cradle usually comes with a mosquito net and rain cover. For winter walks, muffs or fur linings for the handle of the stroller are sold.

The stroller bag is roomy and convenient; You can put a change of clothes there, diapers, wipes, water, food in a thermos, a medical card and much more.

You should choose a car seat/car seat with the ECE R44/03 or ECE R44/04 mark - compliance with the European Safety Standard.

A stroller will cost from 6,500 rubles, a car seat - from approximately 2,000 to 5,000 rubles.

Cloth

Size needed 56-62. These numbers indicate the child’s height in centimeters; the newborn’s build is also taken into account when selecting the size. If the baby was born with low body weight, for the first time clothes of size 50 will suit him, and if he is more than 4 kg, then it is better to buy things of size 62.

Before use, the baby’s underwear (clothes) must be washed and ironed on both sides with a hot iron. Baby's clothes should be stored separately from adults' clothes.

Care items

Hygiene:

• Soft napkins and handkerchiefs.
• Baby wipes. It's cheaper to buy larger packages. But initially you need to try to see if a particular brand of napkins is suitable for your baby. What suits some children causes irritation on the skin and mucous membranes of other children.

• Diapers for newborns.
• Diaper powder or cream.
• Hair brush.
• Cotton swabs with limiter, cotton pads.
• Baby laundry detergent marked 0+ and baby soap.
• Nail scissors or clippers with rounded tips.
• Pacifier marked “0-6 months”. Silicone is considered less allergenic, but latex is softer. Pediatricians recommend choosing a flattened nipple, or even better, an orthodontic one: with the tip raised up. When using such a pacifier, the baby is less likely to develop malocclusion.

First aid kit:

• Aspirator or syringe.
• Gas outlet pipe.
• Hydrogen peroxide, brilliant green.
• Children are usually prescribed vitamin D.
• Nasal drops with sea water.
• Thermometer for determining body temperature.

Other

• Night light.
• Room thermometer.
• Baby monitor.