Having a baby, especially for the first time, requires a lot of preparation. However, it seems like even if you research everything you need for your newborn baby and you shop tirelessly, you’re always forgetting something. From something as obvious as diapers or a car seat to the not-so-obvious like nail clippers and a baby monitor, these things can easily slip past expectant mothers especially when they’re worried about a million other things like a safe delivery. Worry not, though. Babies need a lot of things but they don’t need to have every item under the sun. You only need the very essential baby care products to be well-prepared for your newborn baby. If you’re wondering which are the essentials, here are some.
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Burp Cloths
These are some of the most forgotten items when shopping for baby products but are a must-have. Feeding time can be messy and what follows after is messier. Therefore, you need a cloth that you will drape over your shoulder or chest while burping your baby to avoid staining your clothes. Ensure that the cloth is highly absorbent and the material won’t irritate your baby’s skin.
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Diaper Rash Creams
Many mothers don’t remember to buy diaper rash creams even though diaper rashes are unavoidable. Since your baby is in a diaper 24/7, they’re bound to develop rashes due to heat, chaffing, and dampness. This can be very uncomfortable for your baby causing them distress. You can prevent this by applying a diaper rash cream. Additionally, you can try home remedies such as coconut oil to soothe the rash and keep it at bay. Diaper Rash – Causes, Prevention, And 15 Home Remedies
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Dustbin
It’s important to have a designated dustbin right beside the changing table because no one wants to carry a dirty diaper around the house. This also ensures that you dispose of the diaper and other dirty items as soon as possible to avoid having a smelly room. Make sure the dustbin is lined with a plastic bag that you can remove and throw away. you can buy dustbin liners in the supermarket.
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Swaddle
This is one of those items that doesn’t seem necessary but once you have it, you understand why you needed it. Swaddles are great for keeping your baby snug and calm. Experts suggest that swaddling helps the baby transition from life in the womb to life outside the womb since it resembles the feeling of being in the womb. Swaddling often begins as soon as the baby is born and continues for the next few months. However, you should limit it after one month to allow your baby to make full use of their hands and legs. 7 ways To Show Affection To Your Baby
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Baby Oil
Baby oil serves a much different purpose from baby lotion. Baby oil is used to massage the baby. This is highly recommended to not only help you bond with your newborn but also help them relax. Massaging also helps to work the muscles and stimulate growth. Therefore, it’s a crucial part of baby care that you shouldn’t compromise on. When shopping for baby lotion, make sure you add baby oil as well. 6 Tips To Get Your Baby To Sleep Better
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Nail Clippers
A baby’s nails start growing while they’re in the womb and continue growing rapidly from infancy to toddlerhood. Therefore, you will need to clip them as soon as they’re born to prevent scratches or serious injuries to their delicate skin. Additionally, long nails can harbour dirt which can cause infections since babies have a habit of eating their fingers.
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Thermometer
A thermometer is another must-have baby care product that many forget. Fevers don’t always signal a serious illness but in some cases, it could be an infection such as pneumonia, meningitis, or ear infections which babies are prone to. If your baby has a high fever and you suspect they might have an infection, you should take them to the hospital immediately.
Check out A Guide To Surviving The First Few Months With A Newborn Baby
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