Hello Reader,
So like I had said in the earlier post that I will be giving a brief explanation about every item mentioned in the PART 1 of List 1. The explanations will be about queries like why so much quantity is required of that item or which brand to opt for or where to buy or why the particular product is required in the first place, etc.
LONG POST ALERT
So let's begin..
ALL THE OPINIONS AND SUGGESTIONS ARE MINE AND AREN'T SUPPOSED TO BE FOLLOWED BLINDLY. ALWAYS CONSULT YOUR PAEDIATRICIAN OR GYNAECOLOGIST OR EXPERTS IN THIS FIELD.
CLOTHING AND COVERING RELATED
ALWAYS WASH THE BABY'S CLOTHES, QUILTS, SWADDLE CLOTHS, HANDKERCHIEFS, ETC. BEFORE USING. YOU CAN PRE SOAK THEM IN HOT WATER FOR AT LEAST 20-30 MINUTES IN DETTOL ANTISEPTIC LIQUID. IF YOU FEEL THAT PRE SOAKING IS A HASSLE THEN AT LEAST USE ONE CAP FULL OR HALF CAP DETTOL ANTISEPTIC LIQUID (QUANTITY OF LIQUID DEPENDING UPON THE WASHING LOAD) IN YOUR BABY'S WASHING CYCLE.
ALWAYS SOAK AND WASH BABY'S LAUNDRY LOAD SEPARATELY.
1) Baby muslin swaddle cloth - at least 7 nos. :
Swaddle cloth is utmost important one in the list as it will be used to not only swaddle in the baby daily but also can be used to cover the baby, can be used like towel after baby's bath, can be used as a burp cloth, or can be used as a cover while you breast feed... there can be many more uses too. Since the swaddle cloth is a multi-tasker, you should at least have 7 of them. my baby is 1.5 year old now and I still use his swaddle cloths his bathing towels.
Always buy 100 percent cotton/muslin swaddle cloth only. I had bought mine from a local shop, but you can find these on various online shopping website. Mine was similar to this click HERE.
2) Baby cotton quilt - at least 2 nos. :
At least have two quilts because if one is soiled due to baby pee or potty, you will have back up. Again please buy 100 percent COTTON blankets/quilts for your baby. Don't fall for the fuzzy and soft acrylic ones no matter how tempted you are. Cotton maintains the body temperature and doesn't overheat. But acrylic or any synthetic fabric will surely overheat the body.
I had bought the baby's quilts from BABYMONK (be careful with this website if you are ordering anything other than quilts). Here is the link for checking quilts on AMAZON
3) Burping cotton/muslin cloth - at least 7 nos. :
After every feed you need to make the baby burp. for this you need to keep a cotton cloth on your shoulder where the baby's face will rest. It is prudent to keep a separate burping cloth as proper hygiene can be maintained. You can check out baby burping cloth over AMAZON and FIRSTCRY.
4) Soft cotton face towels - set of 7 :
These come very handy to wipe off their droll and puke. You can check out cotton face towels over HERE.
5) Soft cotton newborn's clothes - at least 7 nos. :
These generally come in lots of patterns and varieties like, shirt style or pullover style or wrap style or back opening or shoulder opening or sleeveless or half sleeves or full sleeves, etc. if you haven't handled a newborn before then its my sincere request that go for shirt style or wrap style clothing. It is the most easiest to make them wear it. In all cases avoid back opening clothes as the buttons generally keep poking the baby, no matter even if press buttons haven been attached to the dress. Always means always buy 100 percent cotton clothes for the newborn no matter in which ever season the baby is born. The only thing that should be taken in consideration with respect to the season is the sleeves part. If your baby is born in summer then buy maximum sleeveless clothes (buy at least one full sleeve dress) but remember that if you have A/C in your room then buy full sleeves. You can check out the sets available on AMAZON and FIRSTCRY.
6) Clothing set or Rompers - at least 2 nos. :
Keep these for when the guests come to visit or you are planning for a photoshoot. You will require one fancy set for the time when you bring your baby home from the hospital. Photos are always clicked and you want your baby to look good in these snaps. Check out on AMAZON and FIRSTCRY.
7) Soft cotton nappies - at least 12 nos. :
No matter how many of these you buy, they are always less. With every pee and potty you will require a fresh and clean nappy. Buy 100 percent cotton nappies. Check it out on AMAZON, FIRSTCRY and SUPERBOTTOMS.
8) Baby sleeping bag - 1
According to me these are very important. These bags provide perfect support while carrying the baby around or even when guest visit and insist on taking the baby. Whenever you take the baby in your hands always support the baby's head, neck and backbone. When you hold the newborn without any swaddle cloth or blanket or sleeping bag your fingers poke and probe in their delicate flesh and may cause discomfort. Check out the sleeping bag options on AMAZON and FIRSTCRY. One sleeping bag should be enough if you are using it when the baby is wearing a diaper or the bag is lined with quick dry sheet.
9) Newborn Diapers and Quick dry sheet :
Newborn Diapers: Now a days we have separate newborn category in baby diapers. Don't buy any particular brand's diapers in bulk before going for trial. Different brands' diapers give different fit around the waist and thigh area.When you buy trial packs of five or ten diapers of different brands available in the market you will be in a better position to choose one. I have tried Mamy Poko pants, Pampers, Huggies and Himalaya. Now I just buy Pampers and Mamy Poko Pants and keep shuffling between the two as per required fit. AMAZON, FIRSTCRY , app like BBDaily and DMART give good offers for bulk buy.
Quick dry sheets: These are synthetic sheets to be placed under the swaddle cloth or baby handling cloth. it quickly absorbs the baby's pee. In fact it holds upto 2 to 3 pees before it starts leaking. Do not wash these in washing machine. These come handy while changing the baby's diaper when you are away from home, it acts like a diaper changing mat. I had bought three and are still in use when the baby has diaper free time. Check these out at AMAZON or FIRSTCRY
10) Baby caps or beanies :
No matter which season is going on when your baby is born, you will always need these caps and beanies. Buy cotton hosiery fabric made caps and beanies. Shouldn't be too tight or too loose. Check them out at AMAZON or FIRSTCRY
11) Mittens and socks/booties :
Always put on mittens and socks as hands and feet are the parts from where body heat can be regulated. Buy hosiery mittens and socks and be careful of the fit around the wrists and ankles. I remember my Paediatrician had told me that its okay to even if you put on scanty clothes on your baby but never forget to put on the mittens and socks. These mittens and socks also give protection from the baby accidently scratching him(her)self as they randomly keep moving their hands and legs. You can find them on AMAZON and FIRSTCRY
12) Mosquito net (one that folds like an umbrella):
These come very handy no matter where you travel to. Always carry it along. Carry it along with you when you go to the hospital for delivery too. Most of the hospital rooms is home to at least one mosquito. Check these foldable nets on AMAZON and FIRSTCRY
13) Sweater - at least 1
Weather is very unpredictable now a days. Untimely rains change the weather and we need to keep the baby warm. If the baby is born in winter or rainy season then buy at least two sweaters. Always put on cotton top/shirt underneath the sweater. DON'T buy acrylic wool made sweaters. They are cheap but might irritate your newborn's skin. The baby keeps howling when the sweater keeps rubbing against its delicate skin and we keep wondering that why the baby is so cranky today. Check sweater on FIRSTCRY
Always check for fabric details on the labels of the clothing before you buy your baby's clothes. If you are making online purchases then check the product details for the fabric information.
TOILETRIES and related
Before buying a particular brand's toiletries for your baby please consult your paediatrician. Or else you can buy the products having small quantities and check whether they are compatible with your baby's skin and hair.
I remember buying all Himalaya brand products and dumping them all when my paediatrician asked me to use only Chicco or Pigeon brand's products. But neither of the two brand's shampoos and moisturizers worked well on my baby's body. But I can tell you one thing that Chicco, Pigeon, Sebamed and Cetaphil are good brands. Choose from either of them. Below I am mentioning the products I am currently using. These products are easily available at chemists' shops or big supermarkets or online.
14) Baby soap :
Sometimes Sebamed and sometimes Teddybar (keep the baby's soap in separate soap case please)
15) Baby shampoo :
Cetaphil
16) Baby oil :
plain coconut oil (Parachute is my choice) and always check the oil's temperature before you start with the massage.
17) Baby moisturizer :
Cetaphil. You can also use Kailas Jeevan, it worked wonders for my baby's nappy rashes.
18) Baby comb :
Pigeon (Always buy combs with super soft bristles, avoid the ones with teeth{at least till they are six months plus}) NEVER ALLOW ANYONE EVER TO USE THEIR COMBS ON YOUR BABY's HAIR.
19) Baby towels - at least 3 (You can use white soft muslin or swaddle cloth) Please don't share your bathing towels with the baby.
20) Baby powder :
Pigeon (Amazon has got good offers on big size packs)
21) Powder puff :
Don't buy expensive ones as I personally feel that you should change the puff after every two to three months.
22) Kajal :
This purchase totally depends on your beliefs about evil eye. I would just suggest that if you are buying kajal then please buy of some good brand and DON'T apply it in your baby's eyes no matter what pressure you get from your family to do so.
23) Nail cutter or filer :
I used to be super scared while cutting my baby's nails. so instead I used to file them with filer. I recently started cutting them rather than filing. My humble request is that please carry on this activity when the baby is sleeping. And if you are not sure then hand over this job to the experts. I have seen many cases where the mommies rush to the doctors with tear stained faces and howling babies with bloody fingers. It is a heartbreaking sight, trust me.
24) Cotton roll :
They come very handy while cleaning your baby's potty. I used to fill a half a mug (this mug was exclusively used for baby's potty cleaning activities) of lukewarm water and dip in it five to seven cotton small balls, take the cotton ball one by one, squeeze the excess water and gently clean the baby's bum. Dispose these used cotton balls properly, DO NOT FLUSH.
25) Baby Wipes :
I have used Himalaya, Pigeon and Littles, and am stuck with Littles even today. they are really good. works well with my baby's sensitive skin. Amazon has good offers if you buy pack of three or five. Use these wipes on your baby's bum only when you are out of your home. Avoid using wipes on the baby's face and hands.
OPTIONAL ITEMS
26) Feeding bottle and Breast pump :
These have to be bought only if the baby refuses to latch or there is breast milk flow issue. In feeding bottles Pigeon and Philips Avent are good companies. And for breast pump there are two options, manual and electric. I had chosen manual over electric and had bought Pigeon brand's pump. But mine came in use only for three months cause after that my baby refused bottle feeding completely. So if you can source any second hand then go for it.
27) Extra nipples - at least 2 nos. (if feeding bottle is purchased).
28) Bathing chair :
This one I had got as a gift and it was the most awesome one. I used this bathing chair every single day from the time my baby was 3 months till he completed a year. These are foldable and easy to carry around. it dries quickly too. It is perfect when you have to bathe your newborn yourself without any help. Mine was THIS
29) Baby carrier :
I had bought this in a hope that I can hands free time when i take my baby out for evening strolls or during shopping. But my baby didn't stay in it even for a minute. My suggestion that you can opt for second hand carrier if available. Also do some research of the carriers before you purchase it for being ergonomically proper. My sincere request is that don't put your baby in the carrier till he or she is well able to support their neck.
30) Car seat :
I am not going to comment much about this because I haven't used any. But I will surely tell that don't keep your baby in any car seat or baby carrier or pram or cradle swing or baby bouncer, etc for more than two hours at a stretch cause it can be fatal.
31) Pram or Stroller :
My baby was born tall and hence I was in search of a pram which was ergonomically and economically good as well my baby fits in well. So I purchased this ONE . The other plus point of this stroller is that it has reversible handle and it has mosquito net too. You can visit any Firstcry shop and they have many strollers and prams on display. it helps in choosing the one that you deem fit. I had bought mine from the Firstcry store and got additional discount as well.
32) Mustard (rai) pillow :
Choose these pillows with utmost care. As defective ones will be injurious for your baby. These pillows help in shaping your baby's head. Choose pillows which have cotton pillow covers and the mustard inside should be fine to touch. Check it out at AMAZON and FIRSTCRY
33) Breast feeding pillow:
I had borrowed my cousin's feeding pillow and it did come useful at times, but not always. These pillows are useful as they help in proper latch and also keeps you handsfree when feeding the baby. plus it relieves you of backache which happens initially while feeding the baby. The one I used looked like THIS
34) Breast feeding cover :
These come handy when you have to feed your baby in public spaces. They also come in handy when you have to cover the front of your baby's pram when it is sunny outside. Buy at least one. Check it on AMAZON and FIRSTCRY .
I had used the apron style cover and the cape style cover.
35) Baby swing cradles (preferably with mosquito net) :
I used this cradle swing during day naps of my baby. We used to co sleep in the night. Cradle swings provides proper comfort and secure environment to your baby. though don't keep your baby in it for more than two hours at a stretch. Also I used to prefer using cradle swing during day as I and my parents used to monitor the baby as frequently as possible. I had purchased mine from a local vendor. Do check the sturdiness of the swing's bars and hooks. I had bought foldable swing and hence now it occupies very less storage space. Check it on AMAZON and FIRSTCRY
I had chosen the hammock style cradle as it helps in shaping the baby's head too. It looks like THIS.
36) Rattle toy :
One rattle toy is enough for a newborn. Choose a toy which makes gentle noise. These come handy when to distract a crying baby. Rattle the toys gently and at a distance from the baby. Please don't rattle it near the baby's ears. Choose a toy which is made out of good quality plastic, yet it should be lightweight (it shouldn't hurt much if it accidentally falls on the baby).
37) Plastic sheets or diaper changing mat:
Plastic sheets don't absorb the baby pee and hence dries off immediately. But they generate a lot of heat when placed under the baby's blanket. So be cautious when you use them. The baby should remain warm but shouldn't be hot.
I was unable to find these online. I had bought mine from a local vendor. These sheets can be later used as picnic mats too.
Diaper changing mats come in handy when you are using public rest rooms or are at someone else's place. These fit in well in the diaper bag and help your diaper changing process to be a mess free one. These too are completely plastic. Hence avoid prolonged use.
DIAPER CHANGING MAT
38) Fitted quick dry bed cover :
These have come as a boon in my life. Pee leaks or bottle spills or food spills are no longer a torture for me or my bed's mattress. Surely invest in one and you needn't worry about you mattress any longer. These are available in two sizes, king size bed cover and queen size bed cover. I bought mine from AMAZON
39) Diaper caddy :
This is a very useful product. It's basically a basket, with few compartments, which you can place near your bedside for things you will need frequently. For eg. Diapers, face towel, wipes, cotton roll, medicines, moisturizer, baby puff and powder, one or two baby garments, etc.. I had got this as a gift and I still use it. The one on AMAZON is similar to mine, where as FIRSTCRY has fancy and expensive options.
HEALTH and MEDICINE related
39) Thermometer : I have two which are digital. One is a normal one which has to be placed under arms and the second one is laser based hence has to be placed near the forehead just for two or three second and you get the body temperature. I found the second one the best as the first one is a task to use with wriggly cranky babies. I also own a heat sensitive thermometer band which is supposed to be placed on the baby's forehead and you read the temperature as the band's color changes accordingly. The first digital one is of Dr.MOREPEN brand. The laser one is of Omron brand (wasn't able to find it on Amazon or Firstcry) and the third heat sensitive band is of MeeMee brand.
40) Colic Aid :
This is a magic potion for babies who suffer from colic or gas problem. As the baby starts adjusting to the new environment and breastmilk they do get gassy and in turn very cranky. Consult your paediatrician before you give your baby any kind of medicine. My sincere request is that please avoid gripe water. Also always follow correct quantity of dose to be given. Always check expiry dates of medicine every time you are going to give your baby a dosage. Also feed the medicine to the baby slowly and gently as the thickness of the medicines are way different than breastmilk. So they take time to swallow the medicines.
41) Vekhand/Vacha/Calamus root powder :
I have applied this on my baby's chest, back and feet after bathing and before dressing him up. Calamus root powder prevents cold in babies. Only a pinch of powder is required for daily use. Don't apply liberally as it may lead to skin rash and over heat. Consult paediatrician before use. Find it on AMAZON.
42) Dettol Antiseptic liquid :
This is a MUST HAVE in your home. It should be used for pre soaking of your and baby's clothes and all items of covering and wiping. You can include it in wash cycles too. Use it in water used for mopping floors. Use it for wiping you furniture.
43) Pigeon liquid cleanser : These come handy for sterilizing baby's bottle caps, rattles, comb, utensils, sippy cups, etc. ITs made of food grade ingredients and hence safe for use. I generally buy it on AMAZON.
ALL THE OPINIONS AND SUGGESTIONS ARE MINE AND AREN'T SUPPOSED TO BE FOLLOWED BLINDLY. ALWAYS CONSULT YOUR PAEDIATRICIAN OR GYNAECOLOGIST OR EXPERTS IN THIS FIELD.
I WILL UPDATE THE LIST AND EXPLANATION AS DEEMED FIT AND WHEN REQUIRED.
You can start shopping for the items in this list in your 7th or 8th month. Around this time you are still enthusiastic for shopping and getting things ready. Around the end of 8th month fatigue starts building up due to the almost full grown baby bump. So there is no point burdening yourself with these things.
Feel free to share your lists and/or your opinions in the comment section below.
Enjoy the shopping.
So like I had said in the earlier post that I will be giving a brief explanation about every item mentioned in the PART 1 of List 1. The explanations will be about queries like why so much quantity is required of that item or which brand to opt for or where to buy or why the particular product is required in the first place, etc.
LONG POST ALERT
So let's begin..
ALL THE OPINIONS AND SUGGESTIONS ARE MINE AND AREN'T SUPPOSED TO BE FOLLOWED BLINDLY. ALWAYS CONSULT YOUR PAEDIATRICIAN OR GYNAECOLOGIST OR EXPERTS IN THIS FIELD.
CLOTHING AND COVERING RELATED
ALWAYS WASH THE BABY'S CLOTHES, QUILTS, SWADDLE CLOTHS, HANDKERCHIEFS, ETC. BEFORE USING. YOU CAN PRE SOAK THEM IN HOT WATER FOR AT LEAST 20-30 MINUTES IN DETTOL ANTISEPTIC LIQUID. IF YOU FEEL THAT PRE SOAKING IS A HASSLE THEN AT LEAST USE ONE CAP FULL OR HALF CAP DETTOL ANTISEPTIC LIQUID (QUANTITY OF LIQUID DEPENDING UPON THE WASHING LOAD) IN YOUR BABY'S WASHING CYCLE.
ALWAYS SOAK AND WASH BABY'S LAUNDRY LOAD SEPARATELY.
1) Baby muslin swaddle cloth - at least 7 nos. :
Swaddle cloth is utmost important one in the list as it will be used to not only swaddle in the baby daily but also can be used to cover the baby, can be used like towel after baby's bath, can be used as a burp cloth, or can be used as a cover while you breast feed... there can be many more uses too. Since the swaddle cloth is a multi-tasker, you should at least have 7 of them. my baby is 1.5 year old now and I still use his swaddle cloths his bathing towels.
Always buy 100 percent cotton/muslin swaddle cloth only. I had bought mine from a local shop, but you can find these on various online shopping website. Mine was similar to this click HERE.
2) Baby cotton quilt - at least 2 nos. :
At least have two quilts because if one is soiled due to baby pee or potty, you will have back up. Again please buy 100 percent COTTON blankets/quilts for your baby. Don't fall for the fuzzy and soft acrylic ones no matter how tempted you are. Cotton maintains the body temperature and doesn't overheat. But acrylic or any synthetic fabric will surely overheat the body.
I had bought the baby's quilts from BABYMONK (be careful with this website if you are ordering anything other than quilts). Here is the link for checking quilts on AMAZON
3) Burping cotton/muslin cloth - at least 7 nos. :
After every feed you need to make the baby burp. for this you need to keep a cotton cloth on your shoulder where the baby's face will rest. It is prudent to keep a separate burping cloth as proper hygiene can be maintained. You can check out baby burping cloth over AMAZON and FIRSTCRY.
4) Soft cotton face towels - set of 7 :
These come very handy to wipe off their droll and puke. You can check out cotton face towels over HERE.
5) Soft cotton newborn's clothes - at least 7 nos. :
These generally come in lots of patterns and varieties like, shirt style or pullover style or wrap style or back opening or shoulder opening or sleeveless or half sleeves or full sleeves, etc. if you haven't handled a newborn before then its my sincere request that go for shirt style or wrap style clothing. It is the most easiest to make them wear it. In all cases avoid back opening clothes as the buttons generally keep poking the baby, no matter even if press buttons haven been attached to the dress. Always means always buy 100 percent cotton clothes for the newborn no matter in which ever season the baby is born. The only thing that should be taken in consideration with respect to the season is the sleeves part. If your baby is born in summer then buy maximum sleeveless clothes (buy at least one full sleeve dress) but remember that if you have A/C in your room then buy full sleeves. You can check out the sets available on AMAZON and FIRSTCRY.
6) Clothing set or Rompers - at least 2 nos. :
Keep these for when the guests come to visit or you are planning for a photoshoot. You will require one fancy set for the time when you bring your baby home from the hospital. Photos are always clicked and you want your baby to look good in these snaps. Check out on AMAZON and FIRSTCRY.
7) Soft cotton nappies - at least 12 nos. :
No matter how many of these you buy, they are always less. With every pee and potty you will require a fresh and clean nappy. Buy 100 percent cotton nappies. Check it out on AMAZON, FIRSTCRY and SUPERBOTTOMS.
8) Baby sleeping bag - 1
According to me these are very important. These bags provide perfect support while carrying the baby around or even when guest visit and insist on taking the baby. Whenever you take the baby in your hands always support the baby's head, neck and backbone. When you hold the newborn without any swaddle cloth or blanket or sleeping bag your fingers poke and probe in their delicate flesh and may cause discomfort. Check out the sleeping bag options on AMAZON and FIRSTCRY. One sleeping bag should be enough if you are using it when the baby is wearing a diaper or the bag is lined with quick dry sheet.
9) Newborn Diapers and Quick dry sheet :
Newborn Diapers: Now a days we have separate newborn category in baby diapers. Don't buy any particular brand's diapers in bulk before going for trial. Different brands' diapers give different fit around the waist and thigh area.When you buy trial packs of five or ten diapers of different brands available in the market you will be in a better position to choose one. I have tried Mamy Poko pants, Pampers, Huggies and Himalaya. Now I just buy Pampers and Mamy Poko Pants and keep shuffling between the two as per required fit. AMAZON, FIRSTCRY , app like BBDaily and DMART give good offers for bulk buy.
Quick dry sheets: These are synthetic sheets to be placed under the swaddle cloth or baby handling cloth. it quickly absorbs the baby's pee. In fact it holds upto 2 to 3 pees before it starts leaking. Do not wash these in washing machine. These come handy while changing the baby's diaper when you are away from home, it acts like a diaper changing mat. I had bought three and are still in use when the baby has diaper free time. Check these out at AMAZON or FIRSTCRY
10) Baby caps or beanies :
No matter which season is going on when your baby is born, you will always need these caps and beanies. Buy cotton hosiery fabric made caps and beanies. Shouldn't be too tight or too loose. Check them out at AMAZON or FIRSTCRY
11) Mittens and socks/booties :
Always put on mittens and socks as hands and feet are the parts from where body heat can be regulated. Buy hosiery mittens and socks and be careful of the fit around the wrists and ankles. I remember my Paediatrician had told me that its okay to even if you put on scanty clothes on your baby but never forget to put on the mittens and socks. These mittens and socks also give protection from the baby accidently scratching him(her)self as they randomly keep moving their hands and legs. You can find them on AMAZON and FIRSTCRY
12) Mosquito net (one that folds like an umbrella):
These come very handy no matter where you travel to. Always carry it along. Carry it along with you when you go to the hospital for delivery too. Most of the hospital rooms is home to at least one mosquito. Check these foldable nets on AMAZON and FIRSTCRY
13) Sweater - at least 1
Weather is very unpredictable now a days. Untimely rains change the weather and we need to keep the baby warm. If the baby is born in winter or rainy season then buy at least two sweaters. Always put on cotton top/shirt underneath the sweater. DON'T buy acrylic wool made sweaters. They are cheap but might irritate your newborn's skin. The baby keeps howling when the sweater keeps rubbing against its delicate skin and we keep wondering that why the baby is so cranky today. Check sweater on FIRSTCRY
Always check for fabric details on the labels of the clothing before you buy your baby's clothes. If you are making online purchases then check the product details for the fabric information.
TOILETRIES and related
Before buying a particular brand's toiletries for your baby please consult your paediatrician. Or else you can buy the products having small quantities and check whether they are compatible with your baby's skin and hair.
I remember buying all Himalaya brand products and dumping them all when my paediatrician asked me to use only Chicco or Pigeon brand's products. But neither of the two brand's shampoos and moisturizers worked well on my baby's body. But I can tell you one thing that Chicco, Pigeon, Sebamed and Cetaphil are good brands. Choose from either of them. Below I am mentioning the products I am currently using. These products are easily available at chemists' shops or big supermarkets or online.
14) Baby soap :
Sometimes Sebamed and sometimes Teddybar (keep the baby's soap in separate soap case please)
15) Baby shampoo :
Cetaphil
16) Baby oil :
plain coconut oil (Parachute is my choice) and always check the oil's temperature before you start with the massage.
17) Baby moisturizer :
Cetaphil. You can also use Kailas Jeevan, it worked wonders for my baby's nappy rashes.
18) Baby comb :
Pigeon (Always buy combs with super soft bristles, avoid the ones with teeth{at least till they are six months plus}) NEVER ALLOW ANYONE EVER TO USE THEIR COMBS ON YOUR BABY's HAIR.
19) Baby towels - at least 3 (You can use white soft muslin or swaddle cloth) Please don't share your bathing towels with the baby.
20) Baby powder :
Pigeon (Amazon has got good offers on big size packs)
21) Powder puff :
Don't buy expensive ones as I personally feel that you should change the puff after every two to three months.
22) Kajal :
This purchase totally depends on your beliefs about evil eye. I would just suggest that if you are buying kajal then please buy of some good brand and DON'T apply it in your baby's eyes no matter what pressure you get from your family to do so.
23) Nail cutter or filer :
I used to be super scared while cutting my baby's nails. so instead I used to file them with filer. I recently started cutting them rather than filing. My humble request is that please carry on this activity when the baby is sleeping. And if you are not sure then hand over this job to the experts. I have seen many cases where the mommies rush to the doctors with tear stained faces and howling babies with bloody fingers. It is a heartbreaking sight, trust me.
24) Cotton roll :
They come very handy while cleaning your baby's potty. I used to fill a half a mug (this mug was exclusively used for baby's potty cleaning activities) of lukewarm water and dip in it five to seven cotton small balls, take the cotton ball one by one, squeeze the excess water and gently clean the baby's bum. Dispose these used cotton balls properly, DO NOT FLUSH.
25) Baby Wipes :
I have used Himalaya, Pigeon and Littles, and am stuck with Littles even today. they are really good. works well with my baby's sensitive skin. Amazon has good offers if you buy pack of three or five. Use these wipes on your baby's bum only when you are out of your home. Avoid using wipes on the baby's face and hands.
OPTIONAL ITEMS
26) Feeding bottle and Breast pump :
These have to be bought only if the baby refuses to latch or there is breast milk flow issue. In feeding bottles Pigeon and Philips Avent are good companies. And for breast pump there are two options, manual and electric. I had chosen manual over electric and had bought Pigeon brand's pump. But mine came in use only for three months cause after that my baby refused bottle feeding completely. So if you can source any second hand then go for it.
27) Extra nipples - at least 2 nos. (if feeding bottle is purchased).
28) Bathing chair :
This one I had got as a gift and it was the most awesome one. I used this bathing chair every single day from the time my baby was 3 months till he completed a year. These are foldable and easy to carry around. it dries quickly too. It is perfect when you have to bathe your newborn yourself without any help. Mine was THIS
29) Baby carrier :
I had bought this in a hope that I can hands free time when i take my baby out for evening strolls or during shopping. But my baby didn't stay in it even for a minute. My suggestion that you can opt for second hand carrier if available. Also do some research of the carriers before you purchase it for being ergonomically proper. My sincere request is that don't put your baby in the carrier till he or she is well able to support their neck.
30) Car seat :
I am not going to comment much about this because I haven't used any. But I will surely tell that don't keep your baby in any car seat or baby carrier or pram or cradle swing or baby bouncer, etc for more than two hours at a stretch cause it can be fatal.
31) Pram or Stroller :
My baby was born tall and hence I was in search of a pram which was ergonomically and economically good as well my baby fits in well. So I purchased this ONE . The other plus point of this stroller is that it has reversible handle and it has mosquito net too. You can visit any Firstcry shop and they have many strollers and prams on display. it helps in choosing the one that you deem fit. I had bought mine from the Firstcry store and got additional discount as well.
32) Mustard (rai) pillow :
Choose these pillows with utmost care. As defective ones will be injurious for your baby. These pillows help in shaping your baby's head. Choose pillows which have cotton pillow covers and the mustard inside should be fine to touch. Check it out at AMAZON and FIRSTCRY
33) Breast feeding pillow:
I had borrowed my cousin's feeding pillow and it did come useful at times, but not always. These pillows are useful as they help in proper latch and also keeps you handsfree when feeding the baby. plus it relieves you of backache which happens initially while feeding the baby. The one I used looked like THIS
34) Breast feeding cover :
These come handy when you have to feed your baby in public spaces. They also come in handy when you have to cover the front of your baby's pram when it is sunny outside. Buy at least one. Check it on AMAZON and FIRSTCRY .
I had used the apron style cover and the cape style cover.
35) Baby swing cradles (preferably with mosquito net) :
I used this cradle swing during day naps of my baby. We used to co sleep in the night. Cradle swings provides proper comfort and secure environment to your baby. though don't keep your baby in it for more than two hours at a stretch. Also I used to prefer using cradle swing during day as I and my parents used to monitor the baby as frequently as possible. I had purchased mine from a local vendor. Do check the sturdiness of the swing's bars and hooks. I had bought foldable swing and hence now it occupies very less storage space. Check it on AMAZON and FIRSTCRY
I had chosen the hammock style cradle as it helps in shaping the baby's head too. It looks like THIS.
36) Rattle toy :
One rattle toy is enough for a newborn. Choose a toy which makes gentle noise. These come handy when to distract a crying baby. Rattle the toys gently and at a distance from the baby. Please don't rattle it near the baby's ears. Choose a toy which is made out of good quality plastic, yet it should be lightweight (it shouldn't hurt much if it accidentally falls on the baby).
37) Plastic sheets or diaper changing mat:
Plastic sheets don't absorb the baby pee and hence dries off immediately. But they generate a lot of heat when placed under the baby's blanket. So be cautious when you use them. The baby should remain warm but shouldn't be hot.
I was unable to find these online. I had bought mine from a local vendor. These sheets can be later used as picnic mats too.
Diaper changing mats come in handy when you are using public rest rooms or are at someone else's place. These fit in well in the diaper bag and help your diaper changing process to be a mess free one. These too are completely plastic. Hence avoid prolonged use.
DIAPER CHANGING MAT
38) Fitted quick dry bed cover :
These have come as a boon in my life. Pee leaks or bottle spills or food spills are no longer a torture for me or my bed's mattress. Surely invest in one and you needn't worry about you mattress any longer. These are available in two sizes, king size bed cover and queen size bed cover. I bought mine from AMAZON
39) Diaper caddy :
This is a very useful product. It's basically a basket, with few compartments, which you can place near your bedside for things you will need frequently. For eg. Diapers, face towel, wipes, cotton roll, medicines, moisturizer, baby puff and powder, one or two baby garments, etc.. I had got this as a gift and I still use it. The one on AMAZON is similar to mine, where as FIRSTCRY has fancy and expensive options.
HEALTH and MEDICINE related
39) Thermometer : I have two which are digital. One is a normal one which has to be placed under arms and the second one is laser based hence has to be placed near the forehead just for two or three second and you get the body temperature. I found the second one the best as the first one is a task to use with wriggly cranky babies. I also own a heat sensitive thermometer band which is supposed to be placed on the baby's forehead and you read the temperature as the band's color changes accordingly. The first digital one is of Dr.MOREPEN brand. The laser one is of Omron brand (wasn't able to find it on Amazon or Firstcry) and the third heat sensitive band is of MeeMee brand.
40) Colic Aid :
This is a magic potion for babies who suffer from colic or gas problem. As the baby starts adjusting to the new environment and breastmilk they do get gassy and in turn very cranky. Consult your paediatrician before you give your baby any kind of medicine. My sincere request is that please avoid gripe water. Also always follow correct quantity of dose to be given. Always check expiry dates of medicine every time you are going to give your baby a dosage. Also feed the medicine to the baby slowly and gently as the thickness of the medicines are way different than breastmilk. So they take time to swallow the medicines.
41) Vekhand/Vacha/Calamus root powder :
I have applied this on my baby's chest, back and feet after bathing and before dressing him up. Calamus root powder prevents cold in babies. Only a pinch of powder is required for daily use. Don't apply liberally as it may lead to skin rash and over heat. Consult paediatrician before use. Find it on AMAZON.
42) Dettol Antiseptic liquid :
This is a MUST HAVE in your home. It should be used for pre soaking of your and baby's clothes and all items of covering and wiping. You can include it in wash cycles too. Use it in water used for mopping floors. Use it for wiping you furniture.
43) Pigeon liquid cleanser : These come handy for sterilizing baby's bottle caps, rattles, comb, utensils, sippy cups, etc. ITs made of food grade ingredients and hence safe for use. I generally buy it on AMAZON.
ALL THE OPINIONS AND SUGGESTIONS ARE MINE AND AREN'T SUPPOSED TO BE FOLLOWED BLINDLY. ALWAYS CONSULT YOUR PAEDIATRICIAN OR GYNAECOLOGIST OR EXPERTS IN THIS FIELD.
I WILL UPDATE THE LIST AND EXPLANATION AS DEEMED FIT AND WHEN REQUIRED.
You can start shopping for the items in this list in your 7th or 8th month. Around this time you are still enthusiastic for shopping and getting things ready. Around the end of 8th month fatigue starts building up due to the almost full grown baby bump. So there is no point burdening yourself with these things.
Feel free to share your lists and/or your opinions in the comment section below.
Enjoy the shopping.
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