Aside from the onesies, burp cloths and bibs, we leave the following in the changing table of every nursery we complete. The chances of you needing all of these items are slim, but we'd rather you have them and not need them rather than reach for something and it not be there.
1.) Diapers - Newborn and Size 1 Newborn diapers are nice because they have a cut-out for the umbilical cord, but we have had clients come home with larger babies who leaked right through the Newborn size. You know you're going to need the #1's so why not stock a few?
2.) Diaper Wipes For cleaning baby's bum.
3.) Baby Powder/Corn Starch - Talc Free Reduces moisture to prevent diaper rash.
4.) Diaper Ointment To treat diaper rash.
5.) Baby Lotion Use for dry patches. Some apply after baths to assure babies skin stays moisturized.
6.) Baby Oil Use for dry patches. Can be used after bath to keep baby's skin from getting dry. Also great for infant massage.
7.) Vaseline Can be used on dry patches. Some use to prevent diaper rash. Use on circumcized area to keep diaper from sticking to baby. Can be used in baby's nose from being rubbed raw from wiping. Lastly, you may need it to take baby's temperature 'from behind.' Yikes! I'm hoping we've past these days with the new thermometers!
8.) Cotton Balls Used to treat umbilical cord and/or circumcision scar.
9.) Gauze For applying ointment. Caring for umbilical cord and/or circumcision scar.
10.) Alcohol Some use in caring for the umbilical cord, though recent research finds it's best to just leave that area be. Can also be used to clean your thermometer...especially if utilizing with vaseline (see #7)!
11.) Q-Tips Used for applying ointment to circumcision. Can be used for baby's ears as long as you use inside the outer portion of the ear. Inserting a q-tip into the ear only pushes the wax further in.
12.) Toy/Rattle/Pacifier Keeps baby occupied while you change their diaper.
13.) Zip Lock Baggies For disposing of really, really bad diapers that you want out of the house quick! Be sure to remove the baggies or keep them out of reach of baby when he/she is more mobile.
14.) Hand Sanitizer To keep your hands sanitized, especially when caring for umbilical cord and/or circumcision.
15.) Tissues Always nice to have handy.
16.) Safety/Medical Kit We like the pre-packaged ones. The Safety First kit includes the following:
* Gentle Care Brush with large, soft-touch handle and soft bristles
* Gentle Care Comb with soft-touch handle and dual-sided design
* Toddler Toothbrush with roll-resistant, soft-touch handle
* No-Scratch Mitts protect from accidental scratches
* Medicine Spoon with clear markings and an easy-to-hold handle, BPA-free
* Easy-Fill Medicine Syringe with conveniently curved grip, BPA-free
* Clear Tip Nasal Aspirator features small, flexible tip
* Digital Thermometer features multiple modes: Oral, Rectal, or Underarm
* Baby Scissors with curved cutting edges for a better trim
* Steady Grip Nail Clippers with easy-grip handle and curved cutting edges
* Tweezers help remove stubborn splinters
* 12 Emery Boards help with stress-free nail trimming
Additions from our Readers:
Submitted by Jennifer, my cousin and mother of Drew, Ava & Landry. 17.) Saline - to use with the bulb syringe for stuffy noses. Read a 'how-to' here.
Have a suggestion to be added to the list? Let us know: CaringForBaby@PeekabooDesign.com