Layette and Nursery Basics

Putting together a layette is not an easy task. It's hard to know exactly what you'll need to outfit your baby (unless you're already an experienced mother.)

Seek the advice of trusted friends and let these basic questions and suggestions guide you:

What clothing will you dress baby in? — during the day? — at night? — to go outdoors?

• One-piece stretchies and gowns with socks make good staples for day or night. Layer with an undershirt and sweater or blanket sleeper for warmth.
  
  
• For outings in cold weather, you'll need a bunting or "pram" suit with cap. In warm weather, don't forget a sun hat.
  
  
• Linens that you'll need are crib sheets, mattress pads, receiving blankets, crib bumpers, and baby blanket.
  
  
• For diapering baby: cloth (use diaper covers with velcro closures) or disposables, and a diaper pail.
  
  

What furniture will you need for baby?

• A crib provides baby with a safe place to sleep.
  
  
• A changing table is useful for diapering, washing, and dressing baby.
  
  
• A chest of drawers helps organize clothing.
  
  
• A rocking chair and nightlight are nice to have.
  
  

What equipment will you need for baby?

• A car seat is required by law.
  
  
• A carriage/stroller makes for convenient travel.
  
  
• A baby bathtub can make bathtime safer.
  
  
• Mothers who plan to feed their babies formula, and breast-feeding mothers who plan to express milk or give supplemental bottles, will need to start with six 4 oz. bottles, a bottle/nipple brush, and the formula. Expressing milk requires a breast pump.
  
  
• A high chair will be extremely useful when your baby is about six months old.
  
  
• Other items such as a bassinet, portable crib, playpen, front or back carrier, infant swing, infant seat, baby monitor, etc. are optional.
  
  
• Don't forget a diaper bag and pacifier!