Things to do Before Baby Comes Home

Things to do Before Baby Comes Home- Before your baby arrives it is important to:

• Have all of the supplies that you will need to care for your baby.
• Know where to go if there is an emergency.
• Discuss the baby’s arrival with other family members.

What supplies will I need?

It is recommended that you have the following supplies:

Large Items

• Crib.
• Crib mattress.
• Rear-facing infant car seat. If possible, have a trained professional check to make sure that it is installed correctly.

Feeding

• 6–8 bottles that are 4–5 oz in size.
• 6–8 nipples.
• Bottle brush.
• Sterilizer, or a large pan or kettle with a lid.
• A way to boil and cool water.
• If you will be breastfeeding:
  • Breast pump.
  • Nipple cream.
  • Nursing bra.
  • Breast pads.
  • Breast shields.
• If you will be formula feeding:
  • Formula.
  • Measuring cups.
  • Measuring spoons.

Bathing

• Mild baby soap and baby shampoo.
• Petroleum jelly.
• Soft cloth towel and washcloth.
• Hooded towel.
• Cotton balls.
• Bath basin.

Other Supplies

• Rectal thermometer.
• Bulb syringe.
• Baby wipes or washcloths for diaper changes.
• Diaper bag.
• Changing pad.
• Clothing, including one-piece outfits and pajamas.
• Baby nail clippers.
• Receiving blankets.
• Mattress pad and sheets for the crib.
• Night-light for the baby’s room.
• Baby monitor.
• 2 or 3 pacifiers.
• Either 24–36 cloth diapers and waterproof diaper covers or a box of disposable diapers. You may need to use as many as 10–12 diapers per day.

How do I prepare for an emergency?

Prepare for an emergency by:

• Knowing how to get to the nearest hospital.
• Listing the phone numbers of your baby’s health care providers near your home phone and in your cell phone.

How do I prepare my family?

• Decide how to handle visitors.
• If you have other children:
  • Talk with them about the baby coming home. Ask them how they feel about it.
  • Read a book together about being a new big brother or sister.
  • Find ways to let them help you prepare for the new baby.
  • Have someone ready to care for them while you are in the hospital.