Layette for your baby

The birth is soon to come and there is still so much to do. Start looking for necessary baby clothes and accessories two months before the birth, compare prices, and buy at online stores as they often have more affordable prices. When buying, pay attention to high quality (it's better to buy products made by well-known rather than by unfamiliar producers) as well as recommendations made by your friends. Remember also to browse through forums and to ask the sales people in shops and at the chemist for their opinion about the products. Here is a list of things you should get before the baby is born:

Clothing

Right after birth, the baby starts to grow very quickly and so there is no sense to buy too many clothes for him. Before you go out on a shopping spree, find out which items the grandparents and friends are planning to get you. This will allow you to save money for other essential accessories. I recommend buying less clothes in size 56 cm and more in size 62 cm, as the baby will outgrow the smaller ones in no time. I suggest that you forget clothes with decorative seams, laces and buttons. Although they look nice, they can be uncomfortable for the baby to wear and chafe his delicate skin. Also be careful with stiff tags and artificial dyes (it's best to buy white clothes). In the beginning, it's better to forget about trousers and dresses, and equip yourself with bodysuits and all-in-ones. Clothes made of soft fabrics are the most comfortable ones (I especially recommend those made of organic cotton which does not irritate the skin). It is best to choose clothes that are not pulled over the head as they are the easiest to wear. Before buying check if clothes can be washed in 60⁰ Celsius. Hot water kills germs.

- Bodysuit - it's best to have 3 pcs with long-sleeves and 3 pcs with short sleeves. They should have poppers, a wide neck opening and they should be fastened in the front and on whole body length;
- Hats- one warmer hat with strings (which keep the hat from slipping) and two lighter hats made of cotton;
- Wrapped shirts- five long-sleeved shirts with wide sleeves under the arms, and popper or string fastening;
- Pramsuit/snowsuit- if the baby is due in the autumn or winter, you will need a warm suit for walks during cooler days. You can substitute it with a warm sleeping bag;
- All-in-ones- 3 lighter pcs and 2 warmer pcs (made of velour or fleece), recommended for beginners, with full popper opening in the front;
- Socks- 3 pairs, not too tight (check the rubber bands);
- Sleepsuits- 4-5 pcs, preferably with a popper opening at the bottom;
- Warmer shirts and cardigans- 2 pcs, with an opening in the front (made of soft, non-irritating material such as fleece; wool is not recommended).

Cosmetics and bathing accessories

You should purchase cosmetics of the highest quality, made by well-known producers, without colour additives or fragrances (they can cause irritation), suitable for children from 1 month.It's best to choose cosmetics approved and recommended by mother and child health institutes or allergy institutes, or those tested by midwives.

- Nappy rash cream - the baby's delicate skin is prone to rash in the genital area and buttocks;
- Soap - delicate, suitable for babies (for beginners I suggest liquid soap);
- Baby wipes - ideal for wiping the baby's delicate skin when changing nappies during walks (when at home use warm water);
- Baby oil - moisturizes dry skin;
- Hooded bath towel - preferably made of terry;
- 1 small towel for wiping the baby's bottom;
- Washing powder or soap flakes suitable for baby clothing;
- Baby moisturizer;
- Nail scissors;
- Baby cotton safety buds for cleaning the baby's nose and ears;
- Baby cotton pads for cleaning the baby's buttocks;
- Soft hair brush;
- Gauze for cleaning the baby's eyes and umbilical stump;
- Baby bath - big and comfortable, without sharp edges, preferably with a dish for soap and sponge;
- Baby thermometer - for measuring the bath water temperature.

For your home medicine chest

- Antiseptic cotton pads for cleaning the umbilical stump;
- Saline nasal spray - for cold and flu;
- Digital thermometer for babies;
- Paracetamol in syrup or suppository.

Sleeping

- Bed 120x80 - preferably wooden, with movable sides which make it easier to pick the baby up for feeding;
- Changer - I especially recommend buying a comfortable changing unit;
- Semi-firm mattress - with core made from foam and coconut fibre, healthy for the baby's back;
- Muslin squares - can be used as light clothing;
- Waterproof mattress protectors;
- Terry fitted sheets - 3 pcs;
- Cotton blankets - 2 lighter ones (or sleeping bags) and 2 warmer ones made of fleece or cotton;
- Blanket covers - 4 pcs;
- Musical cot toy - it's better to choose a static toy with a soothing melody and mellow colours (the baby might find a bright coloured toy more stimulating than soothing);
- Cotton shirts;
- Soother;
- Terry socks (not too tight).

For walks and travels

- Change bag for accessories;
- Blankets for pram (or pram/stroller combo);
- Toys;
- Pram (or pram/stroller combo) - preferably with a large carry cot that doesn't restrain the baby's movement, and with good shock absorption; lightweight with large wheels (it's easier to steer). If possible, buy one with a parasol and raincover;
- Car seat (don't buy used seats, they can be faulty) - it's best to buy a seat for 0+ to 13 kg with a newborn insert.

For feeding (in case you're bottle feeding)

You might develop problems with lactation or the baby might have to stay with his daddy. Therefore it's good to purchase some accessories for bottle feeding:

- Bottle with teat 125 ml (for starters);
- Baby milk formula for children 0-12;
- Bib;
- Breast pump;
- Bottle steriliser or self-sterilising bottles;
- Bottle warmer (you can also use a regular pot with hot water);
- Heat pack;
- Bottle and teat brush.

If you equip yourself with the above mentioned items, you will be well prepared for your baby. You still have to prepare yourself mentally, therefore it's a good idea to take part in childbirth classes.