NAPPIES AND WET WIPES

Unless you buy cloth nappies, throwing a pack of nappies into the trolley will be a weekly occurrence so look out for specials. Tip: Have a nappy party baby shower.

 

BOTTLES

Even if you breastfeed you’ll still need bottles for pumping and for water. Four to six bottles is a good place to start.

 

A SAFE PLACE TO SLEEP

Whether you choose a fancy crib with all the trimmings, a simple camp cot or co-sleeping in your own bed, your baby will need a firm mattress and clean sheets.

 

BABY LINEN

Newborns love to be swaddled, and they love to spit up. Choose four to six blankets in different fabrics for different weather – muslin for summer, fleece for winter. Add to that six to eight burp cloths and bibs.

 

TOILETRIES

You will use these items almost every day: top-to-toe baby wash with pump action (because you now do everything one-handed), aqueous cream, baby powder, cotton wool pads and bum cream. Fissan paste spreads easily and is great for rashes.

 

CLOTHES

For the first few months the most comfortable thing for your baby to wear is a vest and a one-piece babygrow. It’s not exciting, but it’s practical. In summer choose short sleeves and cotton, in winter choose long sleeves, fleece and a hat. Start with eight vests and eight babygrows.

 

CHANGING PAD WITH WATERPROOF COVERING

You need a spot for all your nappy gear and a soft, easy-to-clean place to change your baby. You’ll be doing it a few times a day so make it quick and easy.

 

TRAVEL SYSTEM

By law you have to have a car seat when you leave the hospital. If you want to leave the house after that you’ll probably need a pram or a baby carrier.

 

A FEW USEFUL EXTRAS

Digital thermometer, baby nail clippers, microwave bottle steriliser, dummies, baby bath.  

 

GET WHAT YOU NEED!

Your RCS Card gives you access to the RCS shopping network of over 21 000 stores – including South Africa’s leading home and specialist baby stores. Swipe that RCS Card today!