Baby Gear Checklist

by BabyZone Editors

Essentials


Crib You can find a good crib secondhand, but watch out for teeth marks on the rails and check for missing, broken, loose, or improperly installed hardware on the crib or mattress support. Keep in mind that crib slats should be no more than 2 3/8 inches apart—about the width of a soda can. Convertible cribs are beautiful and can be long-term bed solutions.

Mattress When pricing cribs, keep in mind that the mattress is usually not included. Look for a firm, tight-fitting mattress with a support that does not pull away easily from the crib's corner posts.


Sheets/
Linen		 You will need two to three sets of sheets and three or more lap pads. A big soft waterproof pad in the crib can be a real blessing in the middle of the night! When the pad gets soiled you can just pull it out and the mess comes with it—no changing crib sheets at 3AM. Whew!
Bedding Baby bedding runs between $100 and $400 new for a complete set—and while the comforters and pillows in sets are often adorable, use them for decoration only. Babies cannot lift and move their heads away from fluffy bedding and, if placed on a fluffy surface, may be unable to breathe regularly (possibly due to accumulation of carbon dioxide in the bedding in front of them or nasal obstruction). Try using a lightweight blanket on baby pulled up to his or her chest during sleep.
Changing Table or
Table-Top Changer		 Changing tables are surprisingly expensive but they are also back-saving and functional. A good option may be to buy a changer top and keep it on baby's dresser or find a changing table secondhand.
Stroller Look at strollers in person and then compare prices online before making your decisions. You want one that is fully adjustable, lightweight, and easy to fold. The stroller will be with you for a long time, so make your selection carefully.


Car Seat You can't take baby home from the hospital without a car seat. You can either get an infant car seat, which can be used as a carrier or even part of your stroller, or you can get a convertible car seat which will grow with your baby. Many parents prefer using an infant car seat with small babies because you can carry them out of a vehicle without disturbing their sleep.

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