First few weeks - what is really needed?

[Stefka]

I am 33 weeks and I am having one of those 'oh my god - there's an actual baby coming' moments. I have already bought a couple of things that I now realise I didn't need to bother with. What do think is actually needed for the first few weeks.

I want to use cloth nappies but I have been buying biodegradeable disposables for the first few weeks. Also I have been getting things like cotton wool and baby wipes when ever I go to boots. I am going to start buying some maternity pads too.

Someone is lending us a crib although I am considering getting a snuggle nest so we can co-sleep - still looking into this. I don't have a cot yet.

I have a couple of growbag things - should I get some more or maybe some swaddle blankets would be better for the start?

um - what else? I am terrified that I won't have something I need!

agree with mrs b's list, except i'd get an amby hammock rather than cot or moses basket. bliss.

"you need babygros, vests, a blanket, boobs and lansinoh, and don't let anyone tell you different."

I'm with Aitch. With the addition of nappies of some sort. And if you're lucky, you might not even need the Lansinoh

LOL, yes i was looking at that and thinking 'and probably some nappies as well'. Mind you, Elimination Communication is growing in popularity, Ceolas.

Ah yes, EC. Probably a step too far for this house!

Agree re lots said before, my definates were:
maternity pads
comfy black knickers
breast pads and nursing bras for day and night
Arnica tablets (200 strength)
Neals Yard Arnica and Seaweed bath oil (fab)
Sleepsuits/vests for baby
Change mat/small towels to cover it plus cotton wool or even better old flannels plus bowl for warm water
Sling
Blankets for swaddling
Muslins
Agree with lovely food in freezer, ideally homemade if you can plus lots of bubbly/booze if you drink, am sure it helped me with breastfeeding as it made me more relaxed!
Good luck and remember you can always send someone out to get anything you need in the early days...

dont forget some sterilising tablets ( I had milton tablets no need to rinse) bottle,teat, bottle brush, just in case you desperate for a sleep and want someone else to watch baby!
I used night time pads found this did as good a job as maternity pads at half price.
Only get a pack size1 a pack size2 as newborns grow really quickly!
accept all offers of help!
i bathed my graze in diluted savlon (my mom said when she had us the hospital used to give you it)