mam615
07-19-2003, 03:00 PM
I just put together this list for my cousin, and thought it might be useful or at least interesting for other new parents out there. Note -- it has some personal asides that I didn't bother to edit out. Enjoy!
As promised, I've put together a list for you of my recommended items. I've organized it according to the www.babiesrus.com new parents checklist" http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/subst/stores/baby/parent-checklist.html These are just our opinions, but we did a fair amount of research, especially for the bigger purchases. The Baby Bargains book is an excellent resource. Okay, here goes:
CAR SEAT
This is the one item you absolutely must have. We opted for the infant seat, knowing that Dorothy would outgrow it sometime in the first year. As it turns out, she could only use it for about 4.5 months because she was so big, but I would still buy it if I had it to do over again. We got the GRACO SNUGRIDE. Very highly rated by Consumer Reports, and probably the bestselling infant seat. It comes with a base that you attach to the car with the seatbelts and leave in place. The infant seat snaps in and out very easily so you don't have to wake her up to get her out. The seat can also be used in a car without the base -- great for travelling, cabs, friends' cars, etc. But if you have a second car that you expect to be using alot, I'd recommend getting a second base for that car, so you can easily do the snap-in thing with that car as well. You can get this at Babiesrus.com: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/browse/-/542448/ref=br_bx_c_1_0/002-6879334-2597643 (It comes in a few different patterns. Be sure to get one with these 3 features: LATCH, 5-point harness, and front-adjusting strap)
After Dorothy graduated from the Snugride, we got the BRITAX ROUNDABOUT, another top-rated seat that can be used rear-facing until she's 1 year, and then it can be used front-facing until she weighs 40 pounds. It's expensive but owners (including us) swear by it. You can also get this at babiesrus/amazon, but I don't think they have the totally cool leopard print. http://www.britaxusa.com/products.cfm?action=ShowProduct&pro_id=6DF8B039-B6D7-4461-A597367E0C5B9295
PORTABLE CRIB/PLAYARD
Definitely get a GRACO PACK N PLAY. We got the "Travel Sport" at www.babyuniverse.com. Free shipping and no tax! The Travel Sport had all the features we wanted and then some: a full-length bassinet insert, a diaper changing station, and a canopy. It's been great for travel. Plus, we keep it set up in the living room as a play pen. This is essential now that she is mobile.
CARRIER
You have the BABY BJORN, so you're all set! Actually, Dorothy didn't take to the Bjorn right away -- it took about 2-3 months before she was happy in it. But I think you said you also have a sling, so that may work for the early months.
STROLLER
For our "all-purpose" stroller, we got the ZOOPER zSTREET. It's similar to the very popular Maclaren Techno, but it's $100 less, and it can take an infant seat. We compared Zooper to Maclaren in a store and liked the Zooper better. It's mostly aluminum, so it's really light. Once you get the hang of folding it, it's pretty easy, and it fits fine in our Camry trunk. It comes with a rain sheild and a sun cover. One problem might be with the height of the handles. Paul (6'0" ) has to stoop a bit when pushing it, and he hates how his feet hit the wheels when he walks, so I imagine that 6'7" husband of yours might have a problem with it. You might want to do some special research for strollers that will work for both of you (or, get 2 strollers). www.zooperstrollers.com
We also got a jogging stroller, which I think you saw at the beach. It's a DREAMER DESIGN SUSPENSION. We got a great deal on a closeout at a store in NJ that also has an online store: http://www.bicycle-source.com Other top jogging strollers to look at are B.O.B. and Baby Jogger. You can start using a jogging stroller at 6 months. Or, you can get a jogger that has a basinet insert from One Step Ahead: http://www.onestepahead.com/jump.jsp?lGen=detail&itemID=16765&itemType=PRODUCT&iMainCat=117&iSubCat=11&iProductID=16765 My friend has this and loves it.
MONITOR
We've been happy with the FISHER PRICE 900mHz monitor. It has lights, sound, and vibration so you really have no excuse for ever missing a cry! It's really portable for travel too.
GATES
Haven't done this yet...
DIAPERS
Get a package of disposable diapers in the newborn size. We've been using HUGGIES mostly, but some people prefer Pampers. It's a matter of preference so you might want to buy a package of each. I recently discovered that TARGET makes excellent, cheap diapers under the name "Loving Care." Note: Don't buy diapers in bulk until the baby is about 6 months and growth starts to stabilize.
Also, we went through lots of cloth diapers, using them as spit-up cloths. I think we had 20 or so, and there were times when I couldn't find a clean one.
DIAPER BAG
I bought the Avent back pack but wasn't thrilled with it. I now use a generic looking bag I got on sale at the Gap. It's like a soft version of the Kate Spade. If you go for the Kate Spade, beware of knockoffs. I've also seen messenger bag type bags -- Jeff may be interested in one of these!
DIAPER PAIL
Get the DIAPER GENIE! And 3 or 4 refills so you don't have to think about it for a while!
RASH OINTMENT AND POWDER
We use A&D ZINC OXIDE CREAM with the purple & green label. (As opposed to the one with the yellow and brown label which is like thick vaseline). The cream goes on nice and smooth and is easy to wipe off your hands. Powder is considered kind of a no-no because it's dangerous for babies to inhale. Now that it's summer, I occasionally use corn starch.
ABSORBENT BIBS
You can find these at Target or Macy's or any Baby store. We didn't really use these much until she started eating solid foods at about 5.5 months. Now we go through 3 a day, so I have a stack of about 15 of them. At first, you only need 3 or 4 to protect nice outfits from spit up.
BOOTIES OR SOCKS
The ones that stay on best are from the GAP -- "triple roll" socks. We didn't use booties much, but you will probably get some as gifts. I guess it's good to have about 5 pair of socks on hand for each age range.
GOWNS OR STRETCHIES
It's good to have about 5 of these all-purpose one-piece suits in each age range. For sleeping, we used either a stretchie or a onesie (undershirt that snaps at the crotch) with something called the Halo Sleepsack. It's like a sleeveless fleece bag that keeps baby warm so you don't need to use blankets (SIDS risk). I got these at babycenter.com. They come in lightweight cotton as well -- we use those now since it's summer. BTW, my favorite stretchies were Carter's terrycloth.
HATS
We had 2 or 3 good winter hats. We really liked the aviator hat from the Gap because it had ear flaps and a chin strap to keep it snug. Same with Patagonia's winter hat. For the first few weeks inside, we just used the cap that the hospital provides -- it's so cute!
HOMECOMING OUTFIT
We skipped this!
FOOTED ROMPERS OR TOPS/PANTS SETS
Again, the Gap has cute basics. You don't need many of these at first because they sleep so much. I think we only had a couple. Then at around 3 months we started using them a lot more. I'd skip getting these in the 0-3 month size.
SHIRTS AND ONE PIECES
Same comment as above.
RECIEVING BLANKETS
5 or so is about right. The aunts will probably make you the flannel ones that Granny used to make -- very nice! You might also want some lighter weight cotton ones. Again, the Gap. (BTW, we got most of our Gap stuff at the outlet.)
SWEATERS
It's nice to have a couple of these, but again, don't bother in the 0-3 month size. You probably won't use them until baby is in the 3-6 size.
SNOW SUIT OR BUNTING
Hope you like the one we got you! I also recommend getting the "Great Baby Cover Up" Fleece Warmer from Kiddopotamus: http://www.kiddopotamus.com/prod_gbcufw.html. As you can see from the photos, you can use this on a stroller, car seat, or over the Bjorn. I used this all winter and well into spring -- it was terrific! They have it at Babies R Us, but I didn't see it on their web site.
T-SHIRT OR KIMONOS
You're not supposed to use snap-crotch undershirts until the baby's belly button cord falls off and heals. This lasts for a couple of weeks. I bought way too many front-snap t-shirts for this purpose. As it turns out, I could have (and did) just use the long sleeve teeshirts that the hospital supplies. I swiped about 4 of them.
CHANGING PAD
I recommend this one from babiesrus.com: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B000056HK2 It's contoured, so it's hard for baby to roll off (although Dorothy has mastered it now). I put this right on top of a dresser with a sheet of foam-like shelf protector in between to keep the pad from sliding. We also got 3 terrycloth covers for the pad: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B000056OWB
CHANGING TABLE
You might want one of these for another part of the house so you don't have to run up to the nursery every time you change a diaper. We didn't get one, but our place is tiny.
CRIB OR BASSINET
We got a RAGAZZI crib from a store in NYC. We've been really happy with it. Since this is such an expensive purchase (probably THE most expensive), you might want to read the section in Baby Bargains about cribs, manufacturers, and dealers. We didn't get a bassinet, but again, you may want one for other parts of the house (or, if you get a Pack N Play, you can use that).
CRIB BEDDING SET
I swore I wouldn't get one of these because they cost so much (almost $200), and you are spending most of your money on a quilt that it isn't safe to actually use, so you display it on the wall. Believe it or not, Paul saw a pattern he liked at the Carter's Outlet when I dragged him shopping one day, and he pushed for this, so I wasn't about to say no. We got the John Lennon pattern. It is good (and attractive) to have bumpers and a skirt. But you can probably get them a la carte for a lot less money.
CRIB BLANKETS
Not sure what they mean by this -- the Halo Sleepsack keeps her warm without blankets. Technically, you really shouldn't put blankets in a crib with baby because it's a suffocation hazard.
CRIB MATTRESS
We got the popular Colgate Classica and have been pretty happy with it. It's unbelievably firm (like a brick), but Dorothy seems okay with it. You can buy ones that have a softer side which you can use once baby is past the risk of SIDS (12 months I think).
FITTED SHEETS
For nice, good quality crib sheets, I'd recommend THE COMPANY STORE. We got some lovely flannel sheets from them for the winter. The elastic goes all the way around the sheet, so you know it's going to stay on the mattress.
FLEECE BLANKET
We have a couple of these -- a thin one for indoors and a thicker one for outdoors.
GLIDER
I was going to skip this, but ended up getting one when she was about 6 weeks old. I am so glad I did!!! It is so comfortable and peaceful for feeding, reading books, and just soothing. We got a DUTALIER which is very popular. Love it!! For a footstool I just use a cheap plastic rubbermaid step stool, but you can spend $$$ for something nicer that actually matches.
HAMPER
Don't have one.
MATTRESS PAD
We got 2 (can't remember the brand), but haven't had to change it yet. We also got a few "Ultimate Crib Sheets," which are supposed to go over the fitted sheet in case of accidents. People swear by these, but we never used them, probably because she slept in our bed for the first 4 months when most of the spitting up and diaper accidents happen.
MOBILE
We got the TINY LOVE SYMPHONY ANIMAL MOBILE http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B00005BX8Z/ and she seemed to like it. It gets rave reviews from many parents.
WATERPROOF CRIB LINER
I think this is just the mattress pad.
BABY CARE
She's still pretty bald, but I actually did use her comb early on to help get rid of cradle cap. I put some olive oil on her scalp, waited about 15 minutes, then combed out all the gunk and gave her a good shampoo. It really worked! We got these 2 kits for baby care: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B00004D3EJ/ and http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B00005T811 We also got this ACUSCAN forehead thermometer: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B00005UMZS which seems pretty cool in theory but we haven't actually used yet. And we keep Infant Tylenol and Motrin on hand. We probably could have used a humidifier but got by without one.
BOUNCER SEAT
This is critical! It's a great place to put your baby down when you want to treat yourself to such luxuries as, say, eating or taking a shower. We got THE FISHER PRICE KICK N PLAY http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B00005QI1G and it was probably our most-used baby item for the first 4 months. In the first couple months, I would put her in this seat in the bathroom while I showered. The combination of the steam, the sound of the water, and the vibrations on the seat would put her to sleep within minutes. One word of caution: To avoid baby's head getting flattened in the back, it's a good idea to limit their time in bouncy seats, swings, car seats, and strollers in the first few months. And be sure to start "tummy time" in the third month.
TOYS
I love the Lamaze toys. Here are some of our favorites: first mirror, clutch cube, stacking rings, snack cup stroller toy, puppytunes, soft star, Fly Away Ladybug book, and peekaboo playtime pals. You can see most of these on this site: http://www.geniusbabies.com/lamazetoys.html
SWING
I probably would have skipped this, but I got one free from Graco because I did some freelance work for them. I got the 6-speed open-top http://www.gracobaby.com/catalog/product.aspx?modelNumber=1490CUB. I don't use it much anymore, but for a while I would put her in there in the morning when I got breakfast and it would keep her happy for 15 minutes or so. If you have the space, it's a nice extra spot to put baby when she's tired of all her other spots.
GYM OR PLAYMAT
We got a tiny love gimini gym http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B00000J4SP/ and I found it to be kind of a waste. I might have used it more if we had carpeted floors, but it didn't offer much padding and I was always afraid she would bump her head. Also, I didn't want her spending too much time on her back, and we mostly did tummy time in the crib.
JUMPER OR STATIONARY ENTERTAINER
We didn't do this until a few weeks ago when I got the LEAPSTART LEARNING TABLE http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B000062XQ8/ Maybe I was brainwashed from having seen the ad for this thing about a million times last Christmas, but it's actually pretty cool and she really loves it. I tried her in seated type entertainers at friends' houses (like this http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B00006S3RX/) but she got bored with them so quickly. With the Learning Table, she can practice standing and cruising, and she loves all the little activities. It's only been a few weeks, but I'm really happy with this purchase.
BOTTLES
I used Avent, but she never really took to the bottle, so I can't really recommend a brand or an amount.
BREAST STUFF
I only leaked in the very beginning, and not too much. I had a box of disposable breast pads by Medela I think, and I HATED them. It was like wearing a scratchy round panty shield on my breast. I ended up just taking my chances with the fairly thick nursing bra (which, by the way, I recommend these from Mimi, VERY highly: http://mimimaternity.com/Product.asp?category_Name=Nursing+Bras&category_Id=3071&product_Id=66463071 They are 100% cotton and have no underwire -- this helps you avoid problems like clogged ducts and yeast infections. The cream you want is Lansinoh -- it's good to have a tube on hand in advance. Chances are you will need it at some point.
LAP PADS AND BURP CLOTHS
Skip the lap pads. For burp cloths, we just used cloth diapers as I mentioned earlier. But I went through lots more than 4-6. Probably more like 20 every 4-5 days.
BREAST PUMP
I only used the little Avent Isis hand pump, but you'll want something more substantial if you're pumping regularly. I think the Medela Pump In Style is the favorite for working mothers. If you're only going to breastfeed for 3 months, you might want to consider renting one from the hospital rather than shelling out almost $300 for one.
DISHWASHER CADDY
You'll need one or two of these to wash all the parts of the pump and bottle so they don't fall of the dishwasher rack. Or you could get a sterilizer set (I don't have one of these) or boil things in a big pot on the stove.
HIGH CHAIR
We have, and love, the PEG PEREGO "DT". Dorothy started using it at age 5 1/2 months, but we could have used it sooner as simply a place to sit her down because it reclines (so she doesn't need to be able to sit up on her own before using it). The features we like:
-wheels
-folds very flat (the tray folds up with it, too; many highchairs require the tray to come off before folding, and you need to stow it separately)
- recline
- removable dinner tray (this is the "DT" ) -- a hard plastic liner that pops off, leaving the tray in place
- crotch bar is on the seat, so baby is securely in place even when tray is off; also, tray is easier to handle without the t-bar
- vinyl seat
-people say it's hard to clean but I haven't found it to be too bad
- it runs a little big, but I just put a folded towel under her tushie, and it fits her perfectly
- easy one-hand tray removal
We bought the high chair at babyuniverse.com for a great price and free shipping (and no tax)
I recently bought a little portable chair from THE FIRST YEARS, which you saw at the beach http://www.onestepahead.com/jump.jsp?lGen=detail&itemID=1198&itemType=PRODUCT&iMainCat=117&iSubCat=37&iProductID=1198. I love this chair! It's technically for babies over 1 year, but it works well for Dorothy now that she's sitting very well on her own (this started at around 7-8 months). I got mine at Target for way less than One Step Ahead.
SPOONS
I think I got this suggestion from the Dr. Sears book, but I've been feeding Dorothy with 2 spoons since she started on solids at 6 months. I start with one spoon, which she inevitably grabs away from me, and I let her keep it to chew on as I feed her with spoon #2. It's been a good system so far. I especially like the very soft and rubbery (no metal) spoons from THE FIRST YEARS.
They aren't cheap (especially considering I use 2 at each meal), but I've been happy with them, and so have Dorothy's gums!
Here's a review on epinions.com
http://www.epinions.com/kifm-Health-Nursing_and_Feeding-Feeding_Accessories-All-The_First_Years_Teething_Spoon
You can buy it at babyant.com (I've never used this site, so I'm not sure how they are) I got mine at a local supermarket.
http://store.yahoo.com/babyant/bt024004.html
NURSING PILLOW
I've been happy with the BOPPY pillow, which you can find anywhere. I'd recommend buying it in a light color and then buying a few covers for it. I made the mistake of buying it in a bright pattern that I liked, but I now never see because I like to cover it with clean covers.
SPILL-PROOF CUPS
After some trial and error, I've found that Dorothy's favorite sippy cups are the cheap little tupperware type cups with the plastic covers that you can buy by the six pack at most baby stores or drug stores.
BATHING SUPPLIES
We use Tom's of Maine Baby Shampoo and Burt's Bees soap. I don't use any baby lotion or baby powder.
TOWELS AND WASHCLOTHS
Now that Dorothy is eating solids and taking a bath every day, I go through TONS of wash cloths and a fair amount of towels. It's probably overkill, but I wash everything after one use. For wash cloths, I use 1 after each meal and 2 for the bath, so that's 5 per day minimum. Since I do laundry twice a week, that means I need at least 20 wash cloths. And believe me, I see the bottom of that pile more often than I would like! (same with bibs) . I use 2 towels per bath (I put one over my shoulder before I pick her up, and use one to cover her). I always wash them too in case she pees in them. So eight would be ideal, but I manage to get by with 6 (I guess I usually end up taking one night off from the bath).
BATHTUB
Everyone loves the Euro Bath. I wish I had gotten that one. I ended up with Evenflo 3-in-1 or something like that, which I would not recommend. Here's what to look for: Make sure the drain plug is easily accessible. If the seat is removable, make sure it's easy to take off and put back on, and make sure when it's off, there are no sharp edges in the tub for baby to get scraped on (this happened to Dorothy once :( ). I now use that inflatable thing that you saw at the beach. It's very portable and versatile, and it's so soft and padded she can't really get hurt in it. She seems to like it much better than the Evenflo.
I recently bought the MULTI-USE BATHING CUSHION from THE FIRST YEARS (can you tell I like this brand?) http://www.thefirstyears.com/products/product.asp?pValue=3263. My knees are grateful!
BOOKS
My favorite books are: What to Expect the First Year, The Baby Book (Sears), The Breastfeeding Book (Sears), and Super Baby Food (get this for Jeff so he can take over in the nutrition department when you go back to work!).
As promised, I've put together a list for you of my recommended items. I've organized it according to the www.babiesrus.com new parents checklist" http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/subst/stores/baby/parent-checklist.html These are just our opinions, but we did a fair amount of research, especially for the bigger purchases. The Baby Bargains book is an excellent resource. Okay, here goes:
CAR SEAT
This is the one item you absolutely must have. We opted for the infant seat, knowing that Dorothy would outgrow it sometime in the first year. As it turns out, she could only use it for about 4.5 months because she was so big, but I would still buy it if I had it to do over again. We got the GRACO SNUGRIDE. Very highly rated by Consumer Reports, and probably the bestselling infant seat. It comes with a base that you attach to the car with the seatbelts and leave in place. The infant seat snaps in and out very easily so you don't have to wake her up to get her out. The seat can also be used in a car without the base -- great for travelling, cabs, friends' cars, etc. But if you have a second car that you expect to be using alot, I'd recommend getting a second base for that car, so you can easily do the snap-in thing with that car as well. You can get this at Babiesrus.com: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/browse/-/542448/ref=br_bx_c_1_0/002-6879334-2597643 (It comes in a few different patterns. Be sure to get one with these 3 features: LATCH, 5-point harness, and front-adjusting strap)
After Dorothy graduated from the Snugride, we got the BRITAX ROUNDABOUT, another top-rated seat that can be used rear-facing until she's 1 year, and then it can be used front-facing until she weighs 40 pounds. It's expensive but owners (including us) swear by it. You can also get this at babiesrus/amazon, but I don't think they have the totally cool leopard print. http://www.britaxusa.com/products.cfm?action=ShowProduct&pro_id=6DF8B039-B6D7-4461-A597367E0C5B9295
PORTABLE CRIB/PLAYARD
Definitely get a GRACO PACK N PLAY. We got the "Travel Sport" at www.babyuniverse.com. Free shipping and no tax! The Travel Sport had all the features we wanted and then some: a full-length bassinet insert, a diaper changing station, and a canopy. It's been great for travel. Plus, we keep it set up in the living room as a play pen. This is essential now that she is mobile.
CARRIER
You have the BABY BJORN, so you're all set! Actually, Dorothy didn't take to the Bjorn right away -- it took about 2-3 months before she was happy in it. But I think you said you also have a sling, so that may work for the early months.
STROLLER
For our "all-purpose" stroller, we got the ZOOPER zSTREET. It's similar to the very popular Maclaren Techno, but it's $100 less, and it can take an infant seat. We compared Zooper to Maclaren in a store and liked the Zooper better. It's mostly aluminum, so it's really light. Once you get the hang of folding it, it's pretty easy, and it fits fine in our Camry trunk. It comes with a rain sheild and a sun cover. One problem might be with the height of the handles. Paul (6'0" ) has to stoop a bit when pushing it, and he hates how his feet hit the wheels when he walks, so I imagine that 6'7" husband of yours might have a problem with it. You might want to do some special research for strollers that will work for both of you (or, get 2 strollers). www.zooperstrollers.com
We also got a jogging stroller, which I think you saw at the beach. It's a DREAMER DESIGN SUSPENSION. We got a great deal on a closeout at a store in NJ that also has an online store: http://www.bicycle-source.com Other top jogging strollers to look at are B.O.B. and Baby Jogger. You can start using a jogging stroller at 6 months. Or, you can get a jogger that has a basinet insert from One Step Ahead: http://www.onestepahead.com/jump.jsp?lGen=detail&itemID=16765&itemType=PRODUCT&iMainCat=117&iSubCat=11&iProductID=16765 My friend has this and loves it.
MONITOR
We've been happy with the FISHER PRICE 900mHz monitor. It has lights, sound, and vibration so you really have no excuse for ever missing a cry! It's really portable for travel too.
GATES
Haven't done this yet...
DIAPERS
Get a package of disposable diapers in the newborn size. We've been using HUGGIES mostly, but some people prefer Pampers. It's a matter of preference so you might want to buy a package of each. I recently discovered that TARGET makes excellent, cheap diapers under the name "Loving Care." Note: Don't buy diapers in bulk until the baby is about 6 months and growth starts to stabilize.
Also, we went through lots of cloth diapers, using them as spit-up cloths. I think we had 20 or so, and there were times when I couldn't find a clean one.
DIAPER BAG
I bought the Avent back pack but wasn't thrilled with it. I now use a generic looking bag I got on sale at the Gap. It's like a soft version of the Kate Spade. If you go for the Kate Spade, beware of knockoffs. I've also seen messenger bag type bags -- Jeff may be interested in one of these!
DIAPER PAIL
Get the DIAPER GENIE! And 3 or 4 refills so you don't have to think about it for a while!
RASH OINTMENT AND POWDER
We use A&D ZINC OXIDE CREAM with the purple & green label. (As opposed to the one with the yellow and brown label which is like thick vaseline). The cream goes on nice and smooth and is easy to wipe off your hands. Powder is considered kind of a no-no because it's dangerous for babies to inhale. Now that it's summer, I occasionally use corn starch.
ABSORBENT BIBS
You can find these at Target or Macy's or any Baby store. We didn't really use these much until she started eating solid foods at about 5.5 months. Now we go through 3 a day, so I have a stack of about 15 of them. At first, you only need 3 or 4 to protect nice outfits from spit up.
BOOTIES OR SOCKS
The ones that stay on best are from the GAP -- "triple roll" socks. We didn't use booties much, but you will probably get some as gifts. I guess it's good to have about 5 pair of socks on hand for each age range.
GOWNS OR STRETCHIES
It's good to have about 5 of these all-purpose one-piece suits in each age range. For sleeping, we used either a stretchie or a onesie (undershirt that snaps at the crotch) with something called the Halo Sleepsack. It's like a sleeveless fleece bag that keeps baby warm so you don't need to use blankets (SIDS risk). I got these at babycenter.com. They come in lightweight cotton as well -- we use those now since it's summer. BTW, my favorite stretchies were Carter's terrycloth.
HATS
We had 2 or 3 good winter hats. We really liked the aviator hat from the Gap because it had ear flaps and a chin strap to keep it snug. Same with Patagonia's winter hat. For the first few weeks inside, we just used the cap that the hospital provides -- it's so cute!
HOMECOMING OUTFIT
We skipped this!
FOOTED ROMPERS OR TOPS/PANTS SETS
Again, the Gap has cute basics. You don't need many of these at first because they sleep so much. I think we only had a couple. Then at around 3 months we started using them a lot more. I'd skip getting these in the 0-3 month size.
SHIRTS AND ONE PIECES
Same comment as above.
RECIEVING BLANKETS
5 or so is about right. The aunts will probably make you the flannel ones that Granny used to make -- very nice! You might also want some lighter weight cotton ones. Again, the Gap. (BTW, we got most of our Gap stuff at the outlet.)
SWEATERS
It's nice to have a couple of these, but again, don't bother in the 0-3 month size. You probably won't use them until baby is in the 3-6 size.
SNOW SUIT OR BUNTING
Hope you like the one we got you! I also recommend getting the "Great Baby Cover Up" Fleece Warmer from Kiddopotamus: http://www.kiddopotamus.com/prod_gbcufw.html. As you can see from the photos, you can use this on a stroller, car seat, or over the Bjorn. I used this all winter and well into spring -- it was terrific! They have it at Babies R Us, but I didn't see it on their web site.
T-SHIRT OR KIMONOS
You're not supposed to use snap-crotch undershirts until the baby's belly button cord falls off and heals. This lasts for a couple of weeks. I bought way too many front-snap t-shirts for this purpose. As it turns out, I could have (and did) just use the long sleeve teeshirts that the hospital supplies. I swiped about 4 of them.
CHANGING PAD
I recommend this one from babiesrus.com: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B000056HK2 It's contoured, so it's hard for baby to roll off (although Dorothy has mastered it now). I put this right on top of a dresser with a sheet of foam-like shelf protector in between to keep the pad from sliding. We also got 3 terrycloth covers for the pad: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B000056OWB
CHANGING TABLE
You might want one of these for another part of the house so you don't have to run up to the nursery every time you change a diaper. We didn't get one, but our place is tiny.
CRIB OR BASSINET
We got a RAGAZZI crib from a store in NYC. We've been really happy with it. Since this is such an expensive purchase (probably THE most expensive), you might want to read the section in Baby Bargains about cribs, manufacturers, and dealers. We didn't get a bassinet, but again, you may want one for other parts of the house (or, if you get a Pack N Play, you can use that).
CRIB BEDDING SET
I swore I wouldn't get one of these because they cost so much (almost $200), and you are spending most of your money on a quilt that it isn't safe to actually use, so you display it on the wall. Believe it or not, Paul saw a pattern he liked at the Carter's Outlet when I dragged him shopping one day, and he pushed for this, so I wasn't about to say no. We got the John Lennon pattern. It is good (and attractive) to have bumpers and a skirt. But you can probably get them a la carte for a lot less money.
CRIB BLANKETS
Not sure what they mean by this -- the Halo Sleepsack keeps her warm without blankets. Technically, you really shouldn't put blankets in a crib with baby because it's a suffocation hazard.
CRIB MATTRESS
We got the popular Colgate Classica and have been pretty happy with it. It's unbelievably firm (like a brick), but Dorothy seems okay with it. You can buy ones that have a softer side which you can use once baby is past the risk of SIDS (12 months I think).
FITTED SHEETS
For nice, good quality crib sheets, I'd recommend THE COMPANY STORE. We got some lovely flannel sheets from them for the winter. The elastic goes all the way around the sheet, so you know it's going to stay on the mattress.
FLEECE BLANKET
We have a couple of these -- a thin one for indoors and a thicker one for outdoors.
GLIDER
I was going to skip this, but ended up getting one when she was about 6 weeks old. I am so glad I did!!! It is so comfortable and peaceful for feeding, reading books, and just soothing. We got a DUTALIER which is very popular. Love it!! For a footstool I just use a cheap plastic rubbermaid step stool, but you can spend $$$ for something nicer that actually matches.
HAMPER
Don't have one.
MATTRESS PAD
We got 2 (can't remember the brand), but haven't had to change it yet. We also got a few "Ultimate Crib Sheets," which are supposed to go over the fitted sheet in case of accidents. People swear by these, but we never used them, probably because she slept in our bed for the first 4 months when most of the spitting up and diaper accidents happen.
MOBILE
We got the TINY LOVE SYMPHONY ANIMAL MOBILE http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B00005BX8Z/ and she seemed to like it. It gets rave reviews from many parents.
WATERPROOF CRIB LINER
I think this is just the mattress pad.
BABY CARE
She's still pretty bald, but I actually did use her comb early on to help get rid of cradle cap. I put some olive oil on her scalp, waited about 15 minutes, then combed out all the gunk and gave her a good shampoo. It really worked! We got these 2 kits for baby care: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B00004D3EJ/ and http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B00005T811 We also got this ACUSCAN forehead thermometer: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B00005UMZS which seems pretty cool in theory but we haven't actually used yet. And we keep Infant Tylenol and Motrin on hand. We probably could have used a humidifier but got by without one.
BOUNCER SEAT
This is critical! It's a great place to put your baby down when you want to treat yourself to such luxuries as, say, eating or taking a shower. We got THE FISHER PRICE KICK N PLAY http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B00005QI1G and it was probably our most-used baby item for the first 4 months. In the first couple months, I would put her in this seat in the bathroom while I showered. The combination of the steam, the sound of the water, and the vibrations on the seat would put her to sleep within minutes. One word of caution: To avoid baby's head getting flattened in the back, it's a good idea to limit their time in bouncy seats, swings, car seats, and strollers in the first few months. And be sure to start "tummy time" in the third month.
TOYS
I love the Lamaze toys. Here are some of our favorites: first mirror, clutch cube, stacking rings, snack cup stroller toy, puppytunes, soft star, Fly Away Ladybug book, and peekaboo playtime pals. You can see most of these on this site: http://www.geniusbabies.com/lamazetoys.html
SWING
I probably would have skipped this, but I got one free from Graco because I did some freelance work for them. I got the 6-speed open-top http://www.gracobaby.com/catalog/product.aspx?modelNumber=1490CUB. I don't use it much anymore, but for a while I would put her in there in the morning when I got breakfast and it would keep her happy for 15 minutes or so. If you have the space, it's a nice extra spot to put baby when she's tired of all her other spots.
GYM OR PLAYMAT
We got a tiny love gimini gym http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B00000J4SP/ and I found it to be kind of a waste. I might have used it more if we had carpeted floors, but it didn't offer much padding and I was always afraid she would bump her head. Also, I didn't want her spending too much time on her back, and we mostly did tummy time in the crib.
JUMPER OR STATIONARY ENTERTAINER
We didn't do this until a few weeks ago when I got the LEAPSTART LEARNING TABLE http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B000062XQ8/ Maybe I was brainwashed from having seen the ad for this thing about a million times last Christmas, but it's actually pretty cool and she really loves it. I tried her in seated type entertainers at friends' houses (like this http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B00006S3RX/) but she got bored with them so quickly. With the Learning Table, she can practice standing and cruising, and she loves all the little activities. It's only been a few weeks, but I'm really happy with this purchase.
BOTTLES
I used Avent, but she never really took to the bottle, so I can't really recommend a brand or an amount.
BREAST STUFF
I only leaked in the very beginning, and not too much. I had a box of disposable breast pads by Medela I think, and I HATED them. It was like wearing a scratchy round panty shield on my breast. I ended up just taking my chances with the fairly thick nursing bra (which, by the way, I recommend these from Mimi, VERY highly: http://mimimaternity.com/Product.asp?category_Name=Nursing+Bras&category_Id=3071&product_Id=66463071 They are 100% cotton and have no underwire -- this helps you avoid problems like clogged ducts and yeast infections. The cream you want is Lansinoh -- it's good to have a tube on hand in advance. Chances are you will need it at some point.
LAP PADS AND BURP CLOTHS
Skip the lap pads. For burp cloths, we just used cloth diapers as I mentioned earlier. But I went through lots more than 4-6. Probably more like 20 every 4-5 days.
BREAST PUMP
I only used the little Avent Isis hand pump, but you'll want something more substantial if you're pumping regularly. I think the Medela Pump In Style is the favorite for working mothers. If you're only going to breastfeed for 3 months, you might want to consider renting one from the hospital rather than shelling out almost $300 for one.
DISHWASHER CADDY
You'll need one or two of these to wash all the parts of the pump and bottle so they don't fall of the dishwasher rack. Or you could get a sterilizer set (I don't have one of these) or boil things in a big pot on the stove.
HIGH CHAIR
We have, and love, the PEG PEREGO "DT". Dorothy started using it at age 5 1/2 months, but we could have used it sooner as simply a place to sit her down because it reclines (so she doesn't need to be able to sit up on her own before using it). The features we like:
-wheels
-folds very flat (the tray folds up with it, too; many highchairs require the tray to come off before folding, and you need to stow it separately)
- recline
- removable dinner tray (this is the "DT" ) -- a hard plastic liner that pops off, leaving the tray in place
- crotch bar is on the seat, so baby is securely in place even when tray is off; also, tray is easier to handle without the t-bar
- vinyl seat
-people say it's hard to clean but I haven't found it to be too bad
- it runs a little big, but I just put a folded towel under her tushie, and it fits her perfectly
- easy one-hand tray removal
We bought the high chair at babyuniverse.com for a great price and free shipping (and no tax)
I recently bought a little portable chair from THE FIRST YEARS, which you saw at the beach http://www.onestepahead.com/jump.jsp?lGen=detail&itemID=1198&itemType=PRODUCT&iMainCat=117&iSubCat=37&iProductID=1198. I love this chair! It's technically for babies over 1 year, but it works well for Dorothy now that she's sitting very well on her own (this started at around 7-8 months). I got mine at Target for way less than One Step Ahead.
SPOONS
I think I got this suggestion from the Dr. Sears book, but I've been feeding Dorothy with 2 spoons since she started on solids at 6 months. I start with one spoon, which she inevitably grabs away from me, and I let her keep it to chew on as I feed her with spoon #2. It's been a good system so far. I especially like the very soft and rubbery (no metal) spoons from THE FIRST YEARS.
They aren't cheap (especially considering I use 2 at each meal), but I've been happy with them, and so have Dorothy's gums!
Here's a review on epinions.com
http://www.epinions.com/kifm-Health-Nursing_and_Feeding-Feeding_Accessories-All-The_First_Years_Teething_Spoon
You can buy it at babyant.com (I've never used this site, so I'm not sure how they are) I got mine at a local supermarket.
http://store.yahoo.com/babyant/bt024004.html
NURSING PILLOW
I've been happy with the BOPPY pillow, which you can find anywhere. I'd recommend buying it in a light color and then buying a few covers for it. I made the mistake of buying it in a bright pattern that I liked, but I now never see because I like to cover it with clean covers.
SPILL-PROOF CUPS
After some trial and error, I've found that Dorothy's favorite sippy cups are the cheap little tupperware type cups with the plastic covers that you can buy by the six pack at most baby stores or drug stores.
BATHING SUPPLIES
We use Tom's of Maine Baby Shampoo and Burt's Bees soap. I don't use any baby lotion or baby powder.
TOWELS AND WASHCLOTHS
Now that Dorothy is eating solids and taking a bath every day, I go through TONS of wash cloths and a fair amount of towels. It's probably overkill, but I wash everything after one use. For wash cloths, I use 1 after each meal and 2 for the bath, so that's 5 per day minimum. Since I do laundry twice a week, that means I need at least 20 wash cloths. And believe me, I see the bottom of that pile more often than I would like! (same with bibs) . I use 2 towels per bath (I put one over my shoulder before I pick her up, and use one to cover her). I always wash them too in case she pees in them. So eight would be ideal, but I manage to get by with 6 (I guess I usually end up taking one night off from the bath).
BATHTUB
Everyone loves the Euro Bath. I wish I had gotten that one. I ended up with Evenflo 3-in-1 or something like that, which I would not recommend. Here's what to look for: Make sure the drain plug is easily accessible. If the seat is removable, make sure it's easy to take off and put back on, and make sure when it's off, there are no sharp edges in the tub for baby to get scraped on (this happened to Dorothy once :( ). I now use that inflatable thing that you saw at the beach. It's very portable and versatile, and it's so soft and padded she can't really get hurt in it. She seems to like it much better than the Evenflo.
I recently bought the MULTI-USE BATHING CUSHION from THE FIRST YEARS (can you tell I like this brand?) http://www.thefirstyears.com/products/product.asp?pValue=3263. My knees are grateful!
BOOKS
My favorite books are: What to Expect the First Year, The Baby Book (Sears), The Breastfeeding Book (Sears), and Super Baby Food (get this for Jeff so he can take over in the nutrition department when you go back to work!).