Being a expectant mom is exciting! But it can also be overwhelming and confusing. By the time you read everything you can and get "advice" from helpful people, even the most organized and logical expectant mom can become overwhelmed. This article will act as a checklist for you to see what is recommended. Use this list to help you choose what you really need, what you really want, and what fits into your budget.

Your Baby’s Room

You’re going to need a place for your baby to sleep. Some families like to sleep together in one bed, but if you would like to have your baby sleep in his own bed in his own room, here are some ideas for what you’ll need:

• Crib.

• Changing Table – These are convenient to dress your baby on but definitely not essential. You can dress your baby anywhere as long as you don’t leave him unattended where he can roll off.

• Rocker – Great to have but not essential.

• Bassinet – If you don’t want to start your baby out in a full-sized bed these can be convenient.

• Bedding – You will need about three sheets, two waterproof mattress protectors and about eight to twelve blankets.

• Baby Monitor – This is not necessary unless you have a large house and can’t hear the baby.

• Bassinet sheets if you are going to be using a bassinet.

Clothing

The clothing you choose for your baby will depend on the climate where you live, the season of the year, and your lifestyle. Here are some of the basics:

• Socks – 6 pairs.

• Booties – Just because they’re cute!

• Onesies – 6.

• Sleepers – Depending on the season and climate these can be sleeping gowns with drawstrings in the bottom or sleepers with footies built in.

• Sweater or other outer wear for cold weather.

• Snowsuit for winter.

• Dress outfits for church or visiting.

• Diapers – Cloth (3 dozen + 6 diaper covers) or disposable – If you are going to use disposables go ahead and still get a dozen cloth diapers as you will be able to use them for so many things.

• Changing table pad and sheet.

• Waste basket.

• Diaper pail if using cloth diapers.

• Diaper pins if using cloth diapers.

• Baby wipes.

• Wipe Warmer – Nice to have but not essential.

Medical Supplies

• Baby Health Book – Before your baby is born, do yourself a favor and buy a good baby health book that has symptoms and what to expect. It’s bad in the middle of the night when your baby is sick and you can’t decide whether or not to call the doctor. A baby health book will give you peace of mind.

• Diaper rash cream.

• Digital thermometer.

• Medicine dropper.

• Infant pain relief drops – Tylenol.

• Teething gel.

• Nasal aspirator.

Bathing Supplies

• Baby Bathtub – These are great to have but not essential. You can definitely bathe your baby in the family tub.

• Baby shampoo.

• Towels (6).

• Washcloths (4).

• Baby lotion.

• Baby wash.

• Baby shampoo.

• Nail clippers.

• Q-tips.

• Brush and comb.

Miscellaneous Supplies

• Burp cloths.

• Bibs – 10 to 15. Babies spit up and teething babies drool.

• Bottles and formula if you’re not planning on nursing.

• Sippy cups for when the baby is older.

• Bowl and baby spoon.

• Diaper bag.

• Car Seat – Essential and necessary. Never travel without your baby being in a car seat or buckled in when they are older.

• Baby Swing – Not essential but great to have when your baby is crying. Babies love swings and can get the fussiest baby to sleep when all else fails.

• Pacifiers – Even if you’re planning on not letting your baby have pacifiers, go ahead and get several. In the middle of the night when your baby won’t stop crying, you’ll be willing to try anything.

• Baby Clothes Detergent – Use this for at least the first couple of months. It’s just more gentle and you don’t have to worry about your baby’s skin breaking out or being irritated.

• Baby fabric softener.

Look over this list and choose what you will need and what you can afford. Some things are necessary and you must have them – like diapers and clothes. Many things are just nice to have – like a rocker. Your baby doesn’t have to everything. The main thing he needs is your love and attention.

Jason Ladock

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