Baby Gear Essentials

Trying to sort through the vast array of baby gear and deciding what are must-haves and what are nice-to-haves can make your head spin. While every parent's definition of a must-have will vary slightly, here are some safe bets to help you prepare for your baby's arrival.

There are some questions you should ask yourself to help you decide what you really need and what you'd just really like:

• Why are you buying it (what do you need it to do)?

• How long do you want it to last?

• Is it worth the price?

Do you need the top-of-the-line model with all the bells and whistles, or will the purely functional, less expensive one suit you just fine? Are you planning to have more children that may be able to use this item? If yes, you the more expensive, but perhaps better quality model may be a better investment that will be around the next time around. Finally, is the more expensive one really better than the less expensive, or is it just name-brand?

For Baby

Diapers and wipes - and lots of 'em! You'll be going through ten to 12 diapers a day during the first few weeks, so stock up ahead of time. If you're using disposable, it's a good idea to have about 150 diapers (about three large packs) on hand. If you plan to use cloth, order six to ten packs (12 to a pack). Stock up on several boxes of wipes and tubes of ointment, too.

Car Seat - You cannot come home from the hospital without one. The law requires that your baby be in a car seat any time he or she is riding in a car. There are two options: buy an infant seat designed specifically for younger babies less than 20 pounds; or a convertible seat which can accommodate your baby through early childhood.

Stroller - Until your baby's neck muscles are strong enough (around 3 months and older), you need to have a reclining stroller model. Also choose one that has adjustable straps, wide wheels, and steers easily.

Front Carrier/Sling - These are indispensable for keeping your baby close while freeing up your hands. Your baby likes them too - he or she loves the physical closeness, warmth, and listening to your heart beat. Choose a durable model that fits you snugly.

Crib - A newborn won't know the difference between a padded basket and an expensive crib, but safety makes a sturdy crib essential. Make sure it meets all the current safety standards, the slats are no more than 2-3/8 inches apart, and the mattress is firm. Along with the crib, be sure to buy well-fitting sheets that were specifically designed for cribs, and that fit tightly and securely.

Bathtub or tub/sink liner - Baby bathtubs are inexpensive and great for containing a wet, squirmy baby and keeping him or her safe. A tub or sink liner is a large, thick sponge that cushions your baby against the hard tub or sink surface.

Changing Table or Pad- If you plan to have more children and will use it again, a full changing table is a worthy investment. However, if this will be your only child, consider a changing pad that fits on top of a regular table or chest of drawers. Regardless of which you choose, make sure it's sturdy and has a safety strap to prevent your wiggle worm from scooting off the table mid-change.

Receiving blankets - These versatile blankets can be used for warmth, swaddling, catching or cleaning up spit-up. . . whatever baby brings your way.

Burping cloths - You'll go through lots of burping cloths the first few months. How many you need depends on how often you plan to do laundry.

Bottles and Nipples - Even if you plan to breastfeed exclusively, having a few of these on hand are a great idea. If you will be formula-feeding exclusively, you'll go through ten, 4-ounce bottles each day when he or she is a newborn, and increase to 8-ounce bottles later.

High Chair - Although you won't need this for several months, you will definitely need one. Choose one that is sturdy and stable, with safety straps to keep your baby from wriggling free.

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Clothing
Don't underestimate how quickly your baby will grow out of his or her clothes. Newborn sizes will become too small before you know it, so buy at least three months ahead. It's also a good idea to have several sets of the following items, depending on how often you will use them and how often you plan to do laundry; a good rule of thumb is one week's worth (4-7). And, of course, the following doesn't include the scores of adorable outfits you can spend many a paycheck on.

Onesies - These one-piece bodysuits are a snap to get on and off. Choose ones made of soft fabric with wide head openings and loose-fitting ankle and leg cuffs, and finished seams. Avoid zippers, which can pinch tender skin.

Socks or booties - Your baby won't need shoes for many months, so stick with warm and cozy socks and booties.

Cotton shirts - These light-weight shirts are great for layering and keeping your little one warm, as well as protected from any rough seams or fabrics on outer garments. Choose styles that snap at the neck and under the crotch.

Cap or bonnet (1-2) - Wide-brimmed hats will protect your baby's delicate skin from the summer sun; and soft, warm hats will keep her warm in cold weather.

One-piece pajamas/nightgowns - One-piece pajamas with a drawstring close at the bottom are easy to get on and off and lift up for quick diaper changes in the middle of the night.

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For You

Nursing Bras and Pads - Nursing pads come in disposable and washable styles and will keep your shirts dry in between feedings. Choose a comfortable bra without underwires; and you will have a choice between styles that unsnap between the cups or unhook from the strap.

Maxi-pads and panty liners - Your lochia will taper off for the first two to three weeks, and you won't be able (or want) to use tampons, so you'll need a couple boxes of maxi-pads and panty liners.

Breast-pump - If you're breastfeeding and plan to either go back to work, or you'd like to let your partner or someone else occasionally feed your baby, you'll need a breast-pump. Choose one based on your specific needs. A manual pump is best if you plan to pump only occasionally; an electric pump is better if you will be pumping on a regular basis.

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Nice-to-Haves

Here are some items that are not true necessities, but can really make life better:

A nursing pillow - Your arms, neck, and back will thank you.

A functional diaper bag - While any backpack or large purse can get the job done, a compartmentalized diaper bag will keep everything organized and within reach.

A comfortable chair - A good rocking chair will help keep you comfy and soothe your baby during all those nighttime feedings.

Nightlight - You'll be getting up a lot during the night, especially in the first few weeks, and a good nightlight will save you from turning on the harsh, bright light, or stubbing your toes and shins in the dark.

Swing - A gently rocking swing will help soothe and calm your baby like a charm.

For baby equipment safety guidelines and recalls, check the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's Website at www.cpsc.gov.