6 Essential to Have Before Your Baby Arrives

Preparing for a baby can be expensive and time consuming, however, there are some items you can postpone on buying to ease the budget strain. Other items, however, are essential for the baby; opting to purchase these first will ensure you have the important things you need out of the way. You can then use the left over money and future wages to buy things you want, upgrades and more.

Before your baby arrives, be sure to purchase these 5 essentials before anything else.

#1 Car Seat

The first item you need to have in your baby arsenal is a car seat. You will not be able to leave the hospital with your baby if you do not first have a car seat for them to travel in. The hospital will not allow a baby to leave the premises without first confirming it has a proper travel system to ride in.

#2 Crib/Bassinet & Bedding

Your baby will need a safe place to sleep. If you haven't found the right crib yet, thats ok. Your baby can sleep in a bassinet beside your bed for the first three months. This should give you enough time to budget in a crib and shop around, especially if the baby's arrival was unexpected. Be sure to have at least 4 bedding sheets for the bassinet or crib, 5 receiving blankets, and one swaddler to start with.

#3 Formula or Breastfeeding Gear

Before anything, you should have a feeding plan in order, whether you are planning to bottle or breastfeed, you must have the tools required before you baby comes home. For formula, ensure you have at least 1 can ready to go at home and at least 3 4.oz bottles. Formula can run between $15-$30 per can depending on the size, brand, and type of formula required. If breastfeeding naturally, its a good idea to purchase breastmilk storage bags and a pump. You will most likely have to pump throughout the day.

#4 Layettes

Baby's first clothing should be comfortable. Opt for soft layettes for the first few months. Uncomfortable outfits and clothing can irritate your baby's mood and contribute to crying and fussiness. Layettes are great sleep and lounge wear.

#5 Diapers & Wipes

Whether you plan on using disposable or cloth diapers, you should have a diapering plan in place before baby arrives. If using disposable diapers, you can purchase either size newborn or 1 in advance. Size 1 will still fit a newborn, many moms find this to be a better value. Have a jumbo pack of wipes as well, you will be changing lots of diapers for the next few weeks.

#6 Bathing Gear

Your baby will require a safe bathing system when they are newborns. Purchase one for between $15-$30 depending on its amenities and model. Eventually, you can move your baby over to just a bathing sink or tub and bath with extreme supervision. Never leave your baby alone around water.