I guess the key to buying things before your baby is born is to try and figure out the essential items and those that can be picked up over the weeks after the birth. The Internet has made life much easier as getting boxes of nappies delivered really can save you money and not to mention the hassle of trying to carry all this stuff to the car.
Here is my list of essential items, you can of course add or remove items from the list as you see fit.
Baby
- 8 x vests
- 8 x sleepsutis (baby grows)
- 2 x socks (pairs)
- 2 x scratch mitts (pairs)
- 2 x hats
- 3-4 day wear outfits(not essential as baby grows should be ok for the first week)
- 2 x cardigans
- 1 x pramsuit/jacket
Breastfeeding
- 3 x nursing bras
- 2 x sleep bras breast pads
- breast feeding pillow
- muslin squares
- bibs
- breast pump
- storage bag / bottles
- nipple cream (Vaseline or similar)
- sterilising equipment
- 4 x feeding bottles & teats
- milk formula
- bottle & teat brush
- Baby bath
- cuddle 'n' dry robes
- bath thermometer
- baby toiletries (wont need these straight away as plain water is recommended for the first week or so)
- Plenty of nappies
- cotton wool
- nappy bags
- changing matt
- changing bag
- moses basket & stand or crib
- 4 x fitted mattress sheets
- 4 x top sheets
- 3 x blankets
- room thermometer
- baby monitor
- 2 x babysleeping bags
- carry cot / pram
- car seat
- sun blinds (optional for car)
- baby gym or mat
- soft rattles
- soft fabric books
- soft newborn cuddly toy
- bouncing cradle or swing
