It can be a little overwhelming for new parents, only finding out they are missing something seconds before they need it. We've put together a list of essential items or new parents to have to hand when they bring their newborn home.

1. 15 Must-Have Items for
New Parents

2. Stroller
A good stroller is absolutely essential.
Look for a sturdy model that can be adjusted
so your baby can sit up or lay back in the
stroller.
Other must-have features include a
sunshade, a tray for your diaper bag, an easyto-use safety strap and a comfortable handle.
It can also be helpful to get a model that
easily folds up and can be lifted into the back
of your car.

3. Car Seat
You can’t drive anywhere without a
car seat, so choose a model that is
safe and easy to use.
Models that have a base that stays
in your car with a seat that can be
removed easily are a good fit if you
are looking for an easy way to run
errands with your baby.

4. Baby Carrier
A baby carrier makes it possible for you to get
things done while still tending and caring for
your baby.
There are baby carriers that let you hold your
baby in front of you so you can do things around
the house, work on the computer or even shop
with your baby.
When your baby gets a little older, you can use a
model that straps to your back so you can carry
him on long walks or around events without
having to worry about pushing a stroller.

5. Nappy Bag
A good nappy bag should be on the top of
your baby gear-shopping list.
Look for a sturdy bag that is roomy
enough to carry all the essentials:
diapers, snacks, bottles, a change of
clothes, toys and your wallet.
Also look for a bag that is easy to carry
with comfortable straps, so that it is easy
to tote around town.

6. Changing Mat
A changing table can be helpful, but a
changing mat works just as well and can go
anywhere with you.
Find a changing mat that is easy to fold or roll
up and is very compact, so it won’t take up
much space in your diaper bag.

7. Receiving Blankets
You can’t have too many receiving
blankets! Stock up on these so that you
can keep some in the baby’s bedroom, a
few in the living room and one in your
diaper bag.
These are light weight and perfect for
snuggling your baby, make the perfect
blankets for swaddling and as your baby
grows, can be spread out on the floor for
tummy or play time.

8. Bottles
Bottles are another must-have for any
parent. Even if you plan to breast
feed, you can use a pump and then bring
a bottle with you to make feeding easier
or leave one with the babysitter when
you go out for the night.
There are all kinds of bottles and nipple
options out there, so it may take a few
tries to find the one your baby likes best.
You can start with just a few different
kinds, choose a favourite and then buy
several of that kind.

9. Burping Cloth
Trust us, you’ll want a lot of burp cloths
when you have a newborn. They are
perfect to hold under your baby’s chin
when you feed her, and then to throw
over your shoulder when you burp your
baby.
It’s smart to have a few of these so
when one is in the wash you’ll have a
few more on hand.

10. Portable Play Pen
A play pen is perfect for keeping your
baby in a safe place while you fix dinner
or do a few things around the house.
A portable play pen is even better
because you can set it up anywhere in
the house and even take it with you
when you go to a dinner party or spend
the day with family.

11. Bouncer
Baby bouncers can keep your baby
entertained and happy and can actually
help him exercise his legs and grow strong
so he’ll be ready to walk.
There are all kinds of bouncers out
there, so find one that is safe and that will
work well for your baby.

12. Baby Bath
You’ll definitely need a baby bath! For
the first little while, you’ll probably just
give your baby a sponge bath, so
having a basin to let her rest in while
you wash her makes this much easier.
Even when she gets a little older, one of
these will make bath time easier and
safer.

13. Baby Gate
A safety gate is another necessity. You
can use these to keep your baby, and
soon-to-be-toddler, in a safe area and
to block off unsafe areas.
Stair gates are also a necessity as your
baby grows, as stairs can be very
dangerous for a toddler.

14. Baby Monitor
Baby monitors are another safety tool you’ll
need. You can leave one baby monitor in
your baby’s room when she is sleeping and
keep the other with you in your room or
while you do things during nap time.
Even as your baby gets older, you can leave
a monitor near her while she plays and
carry the other with you around the
house, keeping an ear on her.

15. Baby Thermometer
A baby thermometer, which allows you to take
your baby’s temperature in his ear, is another
must have.
These are much easier to use for babies, who
aren’t ready to use an oral thermometer, and
will come in handy when your baby isn’t feeling
well.
When your baby is sick, keeping an eye on her
temperature is important because if she
becomes feverish you will need to take her to
the doctor.

16. Highchair
Before you know it, your baby will be ready to
sit in a highchair and eat baby food! Be prepared
with a highchair that is safe and that has a large
enough tray to allow her to learn to feed herself
without dropping food or sippy cups.
Being a new parent can be overwhelming, but
with this list of essential gear, you’ll have the
right tools to help you through those first few
months and as your baby grows into a toddler
on the go.

17. For more guides and information
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