Preparing the right essentials for a newborn is crucial to ensure the baby’s comfort and safety. By knowing the list of items to bring to the hospital and some budget-friendly shopping tips, you can be well-prepared and avoid unnecessary expenses.
So, what are the newborn essentials you must buy and bring to the hospital? Find out in this article!
1. List of Newborn Essentials
Here’s a list of practical newborn essentials that you can buy in preparation for your baby. You can purchase items for 0-3 months or 0-6 months, depending on your agreement with your partner:
1.1 Swaddles
Swaddles are special cloths used to wrap the baby, providing a sense of security and comfort similar to being in the mother’s womb. Swaddles help reduce reflexive movements of the baby’s hands and feet that can disturb their sleep and help maintain the baby’s body temperature. Swaddles are affordable, starting from Rp 50,000 for 2-3 pieces.
1.2 Car Seat
A car seat is a special seat for babies or toddlers designed for use during car travel. A car seat is essential to provide extra protection and safety for the baby during travel and ensure a safe and comfortable sitting position. Car seats start from Rp 500,000, depending on the brand, quality, and place of purchase.
1.3 Disposable Diapers
Disposable diapers are a very practical and easy-to-use solution for busy parents. By using disposable diapers, you no longer need to wash cloth diapers after each use. It is important to prepare enough disposable diapers for several days if you will be taking the baby to the hospital for a longer period. Additionally, make sure to choose the right size diapers according to the newborn’s weight and body size to ensure comfort and avoid skin irritation. Disposable diapers start from Rp 50,000 for 20-40 pieces, depending on the brand and quality.
1.4 Clothing
Make sure to bring enough baby clothes for several days in the hospital. Choose comfortable and easy-to-change clothes like bodysuits or rompers. Don’t forget to bring clothes for the baby to go home in, and make sure they are suitable for the climate where you live. Baby clothes can be purchased at affordable prices, starting from Rp 100,000 for a dozen newborn outfits.
1.5 Bathing Supplies
Baby bathing supplies such as baby soap, baby shampoo, and baby towels are very important to maintain the baby’s cleanliness and health. Ensure you choose products that are gentle and free from harmful chemicals to avoid skin irritation. Bathing supplies can be purchased starting from Rp 100,000 per set, including soap, shampoo, and a towel.
1.6 Breast Milk Bottles
Breast milk bottles are used to store and feed breast milk to the baby. Choose bottles that are safe, BPA-free, easy to use, and easy to clean. Breast milk bottles also come with nipples suitable for babies to drink comfortably. Breast milk bottles start from Rp 100,000 each, depending on the brand and place of purchase.
1.7 Diaper Bag
A diaper bag is a special bag used to carry baby essentials while traveling. Ensure the diaper bag has many pockets and enough storage space to carry diapers, change of clothes, bottles, and other baby bathing supplies. Choose a practical, lightweight, and easy-to-carry bag. Diaper bags can be purchased starting from Rp 100,000.
1.8 Baby Carrier
A baby carrier is used to carry and hold the baby comfortably. Carriers help strengthen the bond between parents and babies and facilitate mobility while traveling. Choose an ergonomic and safe carrier for your baby. Baby carriers can be purchased starting from Rp 100,000.
1.9 Mosquito Net
A baby mosquito net is used to protect the baby from mosquito bites and other insects while sleeping. The mosquito net should be made from safe materials and should be securely fastened around the baby’s crib for maximum protection. Mosquito nets can be purchased starting from Rp 100,000, depending on quality and place of purchase.
1.10 Mittens and Socks
Baby mittens and socks are used to protect the baby’s hands and feet from scratches or injuries caused by their own nails. Choose comfortable, soft, and not too tight mittens and socks to avoid restricting the baby’s movement. Mittens and socks can be bought as a package with baby clothes or separately. They are quite affordable, starting from Rp 25,000 per set.
1.11 Bibs
Bibs are used to protect the baby’s clothes from spilled food or drool while eating or burping. Bibs should be made from easy-to-wash and comfortable materials. Bibs can be purchased at affordable prices, starting from Rp 25,000.
1.12 Nail Clippers and Comb
Baby nail clippers and combs are important for maintaining the cleanliness and health of the baby’s nails and hair. The nail clippers should be sharp but safe for the baby’s sensitive skin. The comb should have soft bristles to avoid damaging the baby’s hair. Nail clippers and combs can be purchased starting from Rp 50,000 per set.
1.13 Baby Detergent
Baby detergent is used to wash baby clothes to be free from germs, bacteria, and skin irritants. Choose a detergent that is fragrance-free and free from harmful chemicals to avoid skin irritation. Baby detergents can be purchased starting from Rp 38,000 per liter, depending on the brand.
1.14 Breastfeeding Supplements
Breastfeeding supplements are items that help increase breast milk production in breastfeeding mothers. They can be in the form of food or capsules containing substances that stimulate breast milk production. The price of breastfeeding supplements varies, starting from Rp 100,000 per pack.
1.15 Baby Bed
A baby bed, such as a crib or bassinet, is used for the baby to sleep safely and comfortably. Choose a baby bed that has good air circulation, is safe, and meets baby safety standards. Baby beds can be purchased starting from Rp 500,000, depending on the brand and durability.
1.16 Stroller
A stroller is a baby carriage used to carry the baby while traveling. Choose a sturdy, comfortable, and easy-to-control stroller. It should also come with safety features such as brakes and a seatbelt. Strollers can be purchased starting from Rp 1,000,000.
2. List of Baby Essentials to Bring to the Hospital
After knowing the list of newborn essentials, you also need to know what to bring to the hospital before delivery. Here are the essentials:
2.1 Documents
Documents include:
- Hospital registration documents
- Health insurance or BPJS card
- Copies of parents' ID cards
- Copies of the family card
- Pregnancy records with information on pregnancy development and prescribed medications or KIA book
2.2 Electronics
Do not forget your and your partner’s electronic devices such as mobile phones, power banks, and phone chargers. You can also bring a camera, batteries, charger, and memory card if you want to capture the birth moment.
2.3 Parents' Items
Often, parents focus on the baby’s items and forget their own. However, both parents’ items are very necessary during the delivery process. These items include:
- Several undergarments, sandals, and hair ties
- Loose and practical clothes for changing
- Mom’s toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, towel, moisturizer, and deodorant)
- Glasses. Avoid using contact lenses during delivery
- Snacks and drinks
2.4 Newborn and Mother Essentials
The baby essentials to bring to the hospital include:
- Baby clothes
- Baby hat
- Swaddle blanket
- Diapers
- Wet wipes for baby’s diapers
Additionally, the mother’s essentials for the baby include:
- Maternity pads for postpartum bleeding
- Breast pads for leaking breast milk
- Nursing bra and button-down nightgown to facilitate breastfeeding
2.5 Bag
Prepare a bag large enough to hold all the above essentials. Arrange the items neatly for easy access when needed. Consult your doctor or midwife to know if there are any additional items you need to bring.
3. Tips for Choosing and Buying Newborn Essentials
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Welcoming a baby is a highly anticipated moment for every parent. However, careful preparation in selecting and buying newborn essentials is crucial to ensure all the baby’s needs are met. Here are some tips to help parents prepare for the arrival of their newborn.
3.1 Make a List of Needs
The first step is to make a list of baby needs. This list will help you remember all the necessary items and ensure nothing is forgotten. Some common items on the list include clothes, diapers, bathing supplies, baby bed, milk bottles, and breastfeeding equipment. Making this list also allows you to better plan your budget and avoid unnecessary purchases.
3.2 Prioritize Items
After making the list, the next step is to prioritize the items. Not all items need to be bought at once. Some items can be purchased later after the baby is born. Focus on buying essential items such as diapers, baby clothes, and baby bed. Items like toys and additional accessories can be bought after the main needs are met.
3.3 Match with Baby's Needs
Every baby has different needs. Therefore, it is important to match the baby essentials with your baby’s specific needs. Consider factors such as the baby’s health condition, weather, and living environment. For example, if the baby is born in winter, make sure to buy warmer clothes. If the baby has sensitive skin, choose hypoallergenic skincare products.
3.4 Avoid Excessive Purchases
Even though the enthusiasm to buy baby essentials is high, avoid buying excessive items. Buy only what is really needed and avoid impulsive purchases. Baby essentials have a short lifespan, especially clothes that will quickly become too small as the baby grows. Focus on buying necessary items and ensure they are of good quality.
3.5 Start Looking 1-2 Months Before Due Date
The best time to start looking and buying baby essentials is about 1-2 months before the due date. Starting early gives you enough time to choose items carefully without rushing. Additionally, starting early allows you to compare prices and look for discounts or special offers to save money.
3.6 Don’t Forget to Wash All Baby Essentials
Before use, make sure all baby essentials, especially clothes and fabrics, are washed first. A newborn’s skin is very sensitive, so it’s important to ensure all items are free from dust, dirt, and chemicals that might be present from production or packaging. Use a gentle, fragrance-free detergent to wash the baby essentials to avoid skin irritation or allergies.
4. Tips for Budget-Friendly Shopping for Baby Essentials
Preparing essentials for welcoming the little one is exciting but can also strain your wallet. Don’t worry, here are some budget-friendly tips to help you shop for baby essentials:
4.1 Consider Renting Baby Essentials
Consider renting some baby essentials that are only used for a short period, such as breast pumps, baby cribs, or strollers. Renting can be a more economical alternative than buying, especially for items that are rarely used.
4.2 Shop During Sales
Take advantage of discounts and promotions offered by baby stores, both online and offline. Many stores offer big discounts during certain moments, such as year-end sales, Eid, or Children's Day.
4.3 Utilize Family or Close Friends
Ask family, friends, or relatives who have recently had a baby for second-hand items that are still in good condition. You can save a lot by utilizing preloved items.
4.4 Take Advantage of Credit Card Promotions
If you have a credit card, use cashback promotions or 0% installment offers provided by banks for purchasing baby essentials. Make sure you understand the terms and conditions to avoid falling into debt.
Sobat BFI, these are what you need to know about the list of newborn essentials and how to prepare for them. We hope these tips help you choose and buy newborn essentials wisely and appropriately. Happy welcoming your little one!
In welcoming the little one, parents often face challenges in funding for delivery or post-delivery expenses. Therefore, if you need additional funds, BFI Finance is your answer. BFI Finance is a financing company that provides multipurpose loans with collateral of motorcycle BPKB, car BPKB, and house or shop certificates for your various needs. BFI Finance offers disbursement of up to 80% with low interest and disbursement in just 2-3 days! Apply now and welcome your little one happily.
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