If a baby is on the way, you can't avoid it: buying things. The internet is full of lists of must-haves, and big baby stores are no different. We often get asked what we think is truly important to buy. That's why we've put together the list below.
Often, the emotions of parents-to-be are targeted: one product is even safer than the next. From basic mattresses to Aerosleep protection and baby monitors with just sound to complete monitoring of breathing, heart rate, and temperature. But you know what? The safety regulations for baby products are so strict that everything sold in the Netherlands is safe. Our list includes items that are nice to have at home before you give birth, but also things that can be purchased during or after the postpartum week. Or even later when you feel you need them.
basics for your baby
- 3 wool onesies or 6 cotton onesies size 50-56
- 2 wool sweaters or cardigans, or 4 cotton sweaters or cardigans, size 50-56 (without hoods)
- 2 wool pants/leggings or 4 cotton pants, size 50-56
- 2 hats
- 2 onesies
- 1 pair of woolen socks/slippers or 3-4 pairs of cotton socks
- wool blanket
- 2 hot water bottles + bottle covers
- thermometer (rectal)
- zinc cream (brand Sudocrem or Dr. Leenarts), zinc oil (by Dr. Swaab), or baby powder or white clay
- pure oil/shea butter
- changing pad
- 2 changing pad covers
- 10 muslin cloths
- 2 packs of diapers size 1
- diaper wipes
- vitamin K+D drops
- co-sleeper or crib
- well-fitting mattress
- 2 fitted sheets
- 2 mattress protectors
- 2 sheets
- wool blanket (can also be a wool scarf folded in half)
- bath tub or tummy tub
- changing table
- car seat / Maxi-Cosi (mandatory for transport from hospital to home)
formula feeding
- milk powder 0-6 months, 1 box, brand doesn't really matter (more info)
- 2 bottles with nipples for 0-6 months
- bottle brush (if your regular dish brush is too large)
breastfeeding:
- 1 box of small portion packets of formula as backup due to limited shelf life (e.g., Nutrilon)
- 1 bottle with nipple for 0-6 months
optional extras:
- heat lamp
- sheepskin / wool underlay for crib & stroller
- pacifier
- baby carrier wrap
- baby monitor
- crib canopy
- stroller + sheets + official sun/light protection (not muslin cloth!)
for yourself
basics
- maternity package
- waterproof mattress protector or underlay for your bed (tip: Ikea), vitamin D
- thermometer
- large water bottle
- appelstroop and plastic bags (you can use them to make cool compresses in the freezer)
- rubber hot water bottle
- maternity pads / sanitary pads without plastic (e.g., Kotex Night-time)
- large cotton underwear
- a stack of clean shirts / tank tops (you sweat a lot due to retained fluids)
- bed risers / bed raisers if your bed is lower than 70cm (available for rent)
for breastfeeding:
- warm shawl for during breastfeeding
- nursing pads
- lanolin cream
- healing wool
- bags/containers for expressed milk
optional extras:
- bags of chamomile tea
- arnica drops
- nursing pillow if you want to breastfeed
