I’ve got baby wipes and warmers and cradle. I’ve got diapers and booties galore. You want burp cloths and bibs? I’ve got plenty! I want more… If only Little Mermaid could have sung this as the mother of a young baby!

What we just mentioned above are only a few items that your baby is going to sign up for possession rights. From a list of essentials to maybe’s, we got you covered!

Baby clothes

When dressing up a baby, it is important to remember to dress him or her for comfort; not merely fashion. Soft, roomy and durable material that is breathable on skin is best as it provides comfort and ease. When the material is itchy or irritable, the baby might develop skin rashes or have bawling outbursts. Avoid clothing that come with choking hazards such as ribbons, tassels or strings that can easily be pulled off. When washing baby laundry, use a gentle detergent with very less chemicals or harmful ingredients so as to prevent irritated skin.

Onesies are a great option as they are stretchy and perfect for babies who are almost always napping and maybe attempting to crawl when they gather the energy for it. Baby feet and hands need to be kept warm and soft at all times. Socks, booties, hats and mittens are must haves for the upcoming cold season! These little items have a habit of losing themselves, so make sure to buy inexpensive ones that can be replaced when lost. Pajamas need to be super comfortable, airy, safe and easy to take off even a hundred times if needed during the night when those ‘diaper alarms’ go off!

Baby gear

You can’t drive a car with no wheels. That’s kind of what we’re getting at with the need of baby gear for the newest addition to your family.

• Stroller –

Are you and your baby thinking of stepping outside and breathing some fresh air, “hands-free”? Using a stroller not only makes things easier, but also gives you a small break from the hectic parenting schedule you are following. It is a convenient mode of transportation for your baby which allows you to spend quality time with your precious little one as you enjoy those ‘first-time’ moments. Choosing the right stroller for your baby will make way for more efficient daily tasking.

• Baby Carrier –

When your baby is about 4-5 months, the neck muscles are beginning to strengthen themselves that support the head and enable the baby to lift his or her head to walk etc. This is the best time to start using this baby item. Baby carriers are known for their sturdy and firm support to carry the baby carefully. When selecting a baby carrier, keep in mind to double-check on the straps and harnesses and if they can securely fit your baby. The wonderful role of the baby carrier is that it is very similar to how a fetus is carried in the womb in a correct and snug position.

Fun fact: Baby carriers gently massage your baby’s abdomen promoting healthy digestion and prevent possible physical abnormalities such as frog legs that result from too much time laying on the back or the belly.

Baby essentials

Now, on baby necessities you need to invest on, there’s a good list. Let us give you a heads-up to some of the most important ones!

• Pacifier –

The Pacifier, binky or teether is a soft silicone, plastic or rubber nipple given to infants to suckle upon. It can be introduced to a baby when he or she is 3-4 weeks old and has adjusted to a nursing routine. Sucking on a pacifier will help the baby get into a soothing naptime easily by satisfying the suck reflex as they begin teething. It must be offered to the baby during feedings and not when hungry. As it enhances oral development, keep it clean always so as to keep harmful bacteria from entering the baby’s mouth.

• Baby wipes –

Using baby wipes can be done after your baby turns at least one month old. This may prevent irritated sensitive skin caused by certain ingredients that can trigger possible allergic reactions. After each diaper change, the baby’s bottom must be cleaned gently but thoroughly. This will help remove urine and fecal enzymes from the skin and restore the healthy PH balance.

• Burp cloths and bibs –

Burp cloths and bibs are literally best friends that go hand in hand in minimizing baby messes. Your baby will have many spit ups, sometimes small, sometimes almost all the meal can jump out and you’ll never know where it can make its mysterious landing and how far down your back it’ll cascade. Burp cloths and bibs made of super absorbing material can save your day!

• White noise –

A calm baby means a calm mommy. White noise is simply soothing sounds that mimic the sounds in the organs of the human body as blood passes through and bodily functions take place. It is similar to TV or radio static and ensures sleep while soft sounds of running water, fan or washing machine help promote sleep in the same manner. At 15 weeks of gestation in the womb, babies start hearing muffled amniotic fluid sounds that calm them. Hence, as you tip-toe across the hall and whisper super low-key, remember that some white noise won’t be new to your baby’s gentle hearing.

• Bathing basics –

Every mother looks forward to giving her baby a first to ‘bath’. However, babies have tiny fragile bodies that are not yet ready to hop into the shower like we do. During the first year, giving a bath only two or three times a day is ideal, as more washing can rip off the moisture from the baby’s skin. Use mild, unscented baby soap and tearless shampoo together with a soft, clean washcloth.

A baby 1-4 weeks old requires a sponge bath until the umbilical cord and the navel heals fully. Tub baths can be followed after some time when the baby is ready. Remember, these first few baths dear parents, must be gentle and brief. Take proper guidance and assistance before your first attempt as your baby’s skin is very delicate to its surroundings and circumstances.