Checklist for starting with the baby

What is included in the initial equipment?

With all the adorable clothes and accessories, it's hard for a mom-to-be not to be tempted when it comes to shopping for a baby. Of course, a few pretty items are a must. But what do you really need for the first outfit? Here's our little (honest) checklist for getting started with your baby:

Clothing (sizes 56-62 – ideally all items in different sizes. And if necessary, it's better to be too big than too small):

• 5-6 wrap-around bodysuits, short- or long-sleeved, depending on the season (wrap-around bodysuits are much easier to put on and take off because you don't have to pull them over your head)
• 2-3 thin sweaters (also best wrap-around tops or ones with buttons on the collar so that there is enough room for the baby's head when putting them on)
• 3-4 pairs of trousers with a wide, soft waistband (preferably without feet, then they can be worn for longer)
• 4 pairs of socks (thick and thin)
• A lighter jacket (without a hood); for winter babies: A winter suit, e.g., made of new wool (tip: buy a size larger, then the sleeves and legs can be folded over first and the suit will still fit later)
• 2 hats (a thinner one for indoors and a thicker one for outdoors)
• 2 sleeping bags (thicker or thinner, depending on the season)

Accessories for home and on the go:

• Diaper bag ; possibly a small changing pouch for short trips
• A light cotton blanket
• 6-8 muslin cloths (you can use them for anything, not just breastfeeding. In summer, they're also great as a light blanket in the stroller or as sun protection)
• Changing mat
• 2 hooded bath towels

For changing and caring:

• Size 1 diapers or cloth diapers with diaper pants
• Approximately 10 baby washcloths (best to simply clean them with warm water at home. Wet wipes irritate the skin and should therefore only be used on the go)
• wound cream
• Bath thermometer
• Fever thermometer
• Nail scissors for babies

Breastfeeding and feeding:

• Nursing bra or bustier
• Nursing tops
• 1-2 bottles (preferably made of glass) and teat size 1
• bottle brush
• 1 pack of pre-milk as a reserve
• Breast pump (you can also rent one from the pharmacy)

Larger purchases:

• Baby seat for the car
• stroller
• Footmuff for baby car seat and stroller (for autumn and winter babies)
• sling or baby carrier
• Extra bed or children's bed
• Changing table (even a normal chest of drawers can be quickly converted into a changing table with a cushion)
• Heat lamp for changing table

Of course, it depends entirely on you as an individual what you need immediately after the birth and what can wait. If, for example, you don't drive a car or the baby is sleeping in your bed to begin with, you don't need a seat or an extra bed. You'll only really notice what you still need in everyday life with your baby, so take it easy. And another tip: Ask friends and family who might be able to lend you some things for your initial outfit. This is especially useful for baby clothes, as they can only be worn for a very short time anyway. Plus, worn and often washed clothes already have the chemicals removed, which is much better for your baby's skin.

We wish you a wonderful time getting to know each other!