Good preparation for the baby is the be-all and end-all. As a rule, you can't start too early. The more you organize in advance, the better you can get involved in the moment of your child's birth and the more relaxed you will automatically become.
When is the best time to buy your baby's first outfit?
It's best to start your shopping trip for your baby's first outfit in the first few months of pregnancy. This will give you enough time to choose everything in peace, compare offers and, above all, avoid stress shortly before the birth.
Essential tips for saving money on your first baby equipment
Baby equipment is expensive! But does it always have to be new? Second hand is a great way to save money. Of course, there are some things that you shouldn't buy second-hand, such as a car seat (for safety reasons), mattresses for the crib and hygiene items such as breast pumps, pacifiers, etc. But clothes in particular, which little ones grow out of incredibly quickly, are great to buy (and sell) second-hand. It's also good for the environment. You can also save a lot of money with a well-organized baby shower by communicating gift wishes with friends and acquaintances in advance. You can also make some things yourself and let your creativity run wild. Just have a look online for cool DIY projects and let yourself be inspired!
But now to the checklist!
The must-haves for your baby's first equipment include
Diapers
You'll need tons of these. Make sure you choose the right size and quality. Offers such as diaper test boxes can be helpful in discovering the best diapers for you. Every baby is different and reacts differently to the materials. There are also a large number of different diapers on the market. Therefore, think in advance about what is important to you personally and fits best into your everyday life. The different diapers include Disposable diapers, compostable diapers and cloth diapers. As a child uses around 5000 - 6000 disposable diapers until it is dry, the right diaper is crucial, especially when it comes to the issue of sore bottoms and diaper dermatitis. Find out more here.
Baby clothes
A baby doesn't need as much clothing as we might initially think. Of course, the beautiful offers are incredibly tempting. The most important thing is to have different sizes of clothes, as the little ones grow so incredibly quickly. Initially, 4 - 6 bodysuits, 4 - 5 jumpers/long-sleeved shirts or jackets in different thicknesses, 3 - 4 rompers/changing bodysuits, 3 - 4 pyjamas, 3 - 4 soft pants or tights and, for winter, 1 - 2 warm pairs of socks, 1 pair of mittens, 1 hat and, if necessary, a warm overall are sufficient.
Baby care
Keep it simple! Baby skin is very easy to care for because it doesn't need much. The less, the better. When choosing products, make sure that they are as gentle and natural as possible, as their skin's protective barrier is not yet fully developed and is therefore naturally more sensitive. A baby bath, natural wet wipes, washcloths, a baby hairbrush, baby shampoo, children's nail scissors, mild care oil, e.g. almond oil, wind and weather cream and good wound protection are generally all your baby needs. A bath thermometer can be helpful to ensure a comfortable water temperature.
Checklist to download on Pinterest:
Breastfeeding and feeding your baby
For breastfeeding you will need: a few nursing bras and nursing clothes, a nursing pillow for more comfort, nursing cloths or something to cover your baby if necessary, a breast pump if you want to have a supply, breastfeeding teas to stimulate milk production (if necessary) and nipple shields for care. For bottle feeding you will need: several baby bottles with age-appropriate teats, teats with different flow rates, milk powder or breast milk, bottle warmer, bottle brush, sterilizer for cleaning the bottles and teats. Complementary feeding begins around the age of 6 months, so a high chair will be necessary at this point at the latest. Burp cloths are also always a good idea! Your baby will also need (and probably lose) some soothers.
Out and about with baby/child: You will need a baby carriage or baby carrier for outings and when out and about. A car seat will also be helpful. Always make sure to protect your baby from the cold and sun. In the car, you will therefore need a sunshade for the window, in the baby carriage a parasol and rain cover and for the cold season blankets or a sleeping bag.
Everything for baby's sleep
Make sure your baby has a comfortable and safe crib or cradle. There should never be any hazards in the bed, such as blankets, pillows or toys. A few different fitted sheets, sleeping bags, a music box and a baby monitor are usually sufficient. As the right room temperature is crucial for a good night's sleep, a room thermometer can also be helpful.
Baby toys
Your baby will need different toys depending on their age and stage of development. Rattles and grasping toys with different textures and shapes are ideal for developing hand-eye coordination. Mobiles hanging above the crib provide visual stimulation and can have a calming effect. Baby books with clear contrasting colors and simple patterns can also promote visual development. Toys with rustling elements can promote baby's sensory perception. A soft play blanket or mat provides a safe place to play on the floor and often contains built-in toys or elements. Teething rings can be helpful if your baby has teething difficulties. Make sure they are made from safe materials. Toys that play music or make noises can stimulate auditory perception. A small baby mirror can be fascinating for the baby and help him to recognize his own reflection. Stacking cups not only offer fun when stacking and building, but also promote motor development.