This is not a list of Boppys or Diaper Genies. Nor does it include bottle drying racks or wipes warmers. This is a list of the 10 items that every expectant mom absolutely must have. If you have these items by the time your due date rolls around, you will be well prepared when baby decides to make his or her grand entrance.

1. Infant car seat – This is the one item that you truly must have before giving birth if you are delivering in a hospital. By law, you can not leave the hospital without first securing your new little bundle in an infant car seat. There are a variety on the market, but Graco SnugRide infant seats receive high safety ratings and are affordable. If you choose to borrow a car seat from a friend, be sure to check the bottom for the manufacturers date since the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) does not recommend using a car seat that is more than 6 years old.

2. Bottles – Chances are even if you have decided to breastfeed, you will want someone to help you with feedings during the night or while you catch a quick nap during the day. Plan on 5-8 per day if you are bottle feeding exclusively. What type of bottles to use is a matter of choice but whichever you choose, do not open all of the nipples and sanitize them before baby arrives. Some babies are picky and you may have to try a number of different shaped nipples before you find the right fit. Open one or two, that way you can exchange them for another type if needed.

3. Diapers, Wipes, Diaper Cream – Newborns use an average of 8 diapers per day. Look for unscented or wipes made specifically for sensitive skin to avoid skin irritation. And with all that wiping and diaper changing going on, be sure to have a high quality diaper cream on hand for when your little one’s tushie is sore. The Original Desitin or Dr. Smith’s Ointment work wonderfully.

4. Crib – Whether you have a bassinet next to your bed or a crib in the nursery, your baby will need a place to sleep. All new cribs must meet specific government safety requirements, but if you borrow one be sure there are no missing slats, broken hardware, and that the slats are no more than 2 3/8″ apart.

5. Onsies/Sleepers – Plan on 5-10 onsies and 5-10 sleepers or nightgowns depending on how often you want to do laundry.

6. Breast Pump – If you have decided to breastfeed, a high quality electric breast pump like the Medela Pump In Style is essential. Breast pumps can be rented from the hospital after you deliver or can be borrowed from a friend as long as new attachments are purchased.

7. Crib Sheets & Blankets – 3-4 fitted crib sheets, 3 lightweight blankets, 1 heavy weight blanket, and 2 waterproof mattress pads. The Ultimate Crib Sheet which fits directly on top of the crib sheet and snaps around the crib slats to make for quick and easy removal is a back saver.

8. Bouncer or Swing- Babies love repetitive movements and soothing vibrations and sounds. A bouncer or baby swing are comforting spots for your baby to relax and will give your arms a much needed break.

9. Lanolin Cream – Apply after each nursing session to prevent cracks and bleeding. Lansinoh Cream is excellent but store brands can be found at most drug stores for a substantial discount and work equally as well.

10. Stroller – When shopping for a car seat, you may opt for a travel system which includes a stroller in addition to the infant car seat. These can be purchased separately, or choose an infant car seat frame stroller which is much more compact if space is an issue.

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