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List of Baby things to buy before birth in Nigeria

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Join me as we explore the must-haves that will not only simplify your journey but also add a touch of magic to these precious early moments of your new born baby.

When a newly born baby enters the world, so too does the wave of excitement, love, and anticipation, but with that also comes the need for all the things a baby needs.

Whether you are a first-time parent or expanding your growing family, navigating the world of baby essentials can feel overwhelming.

From the softest swaddles to the latest innovations in baby gear, every little detail is designed to make life with the new baby easier and more comfortable.

The importance of preparing for a baby. 
As a couple preparing for a new baby or as a first-time parent, it’s difficult, for some reason, to ensure a beautiful, smooth transition for both the parent and the baby.

Not only is it more comfortable for the new baby, it also helps ensure a smooth transition into parenthood without stress and difficulties; it ensures that you are adequately prepared, waiting for the baby with a smile and laughter on your face.

The Essential List Of Baby Items  

  • Breast pump 
  • Feeding bottle with newborn-size nipples
  • Bottle sterilizer
  • Burp cloths
  • Bottle warmer
  • Baby feeds spoon and bow for 4-6 months when introducing solid food.
  • Nursing pillow 
  • Formula if not breastfeeding 
  • pacifier 
  • High chair for 6-10 months 
  • Bibs (small for a newborn baby)

Breastfeeding Essential.

  • NURSING BRA.

A nursing bra is to provide proper support to facilitate nursing, and to avoid engorged breasts or other complications that prevent an infant from nursing effectively, it’s important to wear a nursing bra that fits well.

A nursing bra is a specialized one designed to provide comfort and convenience for a breastfeeding mother.

Nursing bras are made from soft stretchy fabrics to accommodate changes in breast size during pregnancy and breastfeeding, offering support while reducing pressure on sensitive areas.

It typically features clips or panels that can be easily opened with one hand to allow access for nursing without having to remove the entire bra.

I recommend this nursing bra for you; it’s excellent, convenient, and well designed for you as a nursing mother. Get hold of it, and you will be happy you did.

A good nursing bra helps to prevent pain and discomfort; it’s important to use a bra that has a soft cup and increases rows of hooks and eyes.

  • PILLOW

The pillow for breastfeeding mothers is very essential because it gives you support as you sit upright, making it easier for you to breastfeed your newborn baby in a very comfortable position and reducing strain on your neck, shoulder, and back, including your waist.

Breastfeeding pillows provide physical support for both the mother and the baby to help position the baby at the correct height and angle; this can be particularly helpful during long breastfeeding sessions.

Many breastfeeding pillows are designed to be adjustable or can double as support during tummy time or as a prop when they start to sit up.

For a mother recovering from C’s, a pillow is very essential because it can act as a buffer, protecting the sensitive incision while feeding the baby.

Using a pillow can help achieve proper positioning for the baby to latch correctly. Good latch positioning is crucial for the baby to feed effectively and for the mother to avoid nipple pain or damage.

A pillow can be highly beneficial for a breastfeeding mother for several more reasons.

In summary, a pillow provides both comfort and support, allowing breastfeeding to be a more relaxed experience for the mother while ensuring the baby is in the right position to be well breastfed.

  • STORAGE AND STERILIZING

Storage and sterilizing tips are very important because, without them, you can’t achieve proper hygiene for your newborn baby.

Store the dry sterilized feeding equipment in a clean container with a lid. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

You will need to sterilize your bottles every day. Store the clean, dry expressing equipment in a new plastic bag or clean, covered container until you need to use it again.

Storage and sterilizing tips are essential for newborn babies because their developing and immune systems are highly susceptible to infections.

Proper sterilization helps eliminate harmful bacteria, viruses, and fungi that can cause illnesses.

Some baby bottles are dishwasher safe; run them through a hot water cycle with heated drying options.

Allow the sterilizer items to air dry on a clean towel or use a drying rack designed for baby products. Avoid wiping them dry with a regular towel to reduce contamination.

Items like pacifiers or teething toys use storage cases or zip-lock bags to avoid dust or bacteria exposure.

Store breast milk in BPA-free storage bags or bottles in the refrigerator (up to 4 days) or freezer up to 6 months.

  • FEEDING BOTTLE AND NIPPLES 

A feeding bottle with newborn-size nipples is produced specifically for infants who are just starting to feed from birth to three months of age.

The nipples on these feeding bottles have a slower rate of flow, meaning the liquid comes out gradually, allowing the baby to drink at their own pace without being overwhelmed. It prevents the new-born baby from choking, gasping, and overfeeding.

Newborn nipples are often softer to mimic the feel of the mother’s breast, making it easier for babies to latch on and feed. The hole in the nipples is small to ensure milk or formula drips slowly.

Stimulating the natural flow of breastfeeding, this slow flow allows the baby to suck, swallow, and breathe comfortably.

Many newborn baby bottles and nipples have anti-colic features, such as valves and vents, which help to reduce the intake of air during feeding.

These feeding bottles help newborn babies who are exclusively bottle-fed or supplement breastfeeding with bottle-feeding.

Nipples are usually made of silicone or latex. Silicone is more durable and maintains its shape longer, while latex is softer but may wear out faster. 

  • BOTTLE WARMER:

A baby bottle warmer is a device designed to gently heat the bottles of milk, baby food, or formula to the ideal temperature for feeding infants.

These warmers are commonly used by parents to avoid the risk of overheating milk in the stove or microwave, which can cause hot spots or damage nutrients in the breast milk.

Most bottle warmers are easy to use, requiring you to place the bottle in the warmer and add water, after which the device heats the bottle to a safe temperature.

Some even come with features like timers or temperature controllers and auto-shutoff settings.

The baby bottle warmer is perfect for busy moms and demanding family life. A baby bottle warmer is a convenient and compact device to ensure your baby’s food and milk are warm to perfection.

Just like a baby food maker, these kitchen gadgets or devices can make life easier for breastfeeding mothers or first-time parents.

List of Diapering Needs  

Do you know we have two kinds of diapers for newborn babies? These two types of diapers are disposable diapers and cloth diapers. 

Each has its pros and cons depending on factors like cost, environmental impact, and convenience.

  • DISPOSABLE DIAPERS 

The materials used in disposable diapers do a good job of removing moisture from around your baby’s skin.

Disposable diapers are easy to use and dispose of, making them a popular choice for busy parents. They are highly absorbent and designed for multiple hours of protection.

The advantage is to absorb the body excretions so that the baby does not become immediately fussy and does not wake up as the result of dampness. 
Convenient and time-saving; no washing required; highly absorbed; and reducing the chances of leaking.

But it’s  more expensive in the long run compared to clothes, environmental impacts due to waste.

Here’s other needs..

  • Diaper bag 
  • wipes
  • Diapers (clothes or disposable)
  • Changing tables 
  • Diaper pail 
  • Changing mat or portable changing pad
  • Diaper cream.

List of Sleep Essentials

  • Crib sheets 
  • Mattress protector 
  • Baby motor
  • Crib
  • Nightlight 
  • Bassinet 
  • Moses basket 
  • White noise machine 

  • CRIB SHEETS 

Crib sheets are the first and most essential layer of defense against a host of things; it’s a fitted sheet like adult bedsheets, only much smaller in size.

Now the reason why the matter, babies, as we know, need all the protection they can get from their environment.

Crib sheets provide a soft and comfortable surface for the baby to sleep on, enhancing the overall comfort of the crib.

Crib sheets are easily washable, ensuring that the baby’s sleeping environment stays clean and free of allergens, dust, mites, and bacteria.

Crib sheets serve several essential functions for a newborn baby. They act as a protective layer between the baby and the crib mattress, keeping the mattress clean from spills, diarrhea, diaper leaks, and other messes.

Well-fitted crib sheets prevent the loosening of fabric in the crib, reducing the risk of suffocation and entanglement. Crib sheets always come in diverse colors and patterns, contributing to the overall look of the of the nursery.

Selecting the Right Baby Crib and Mattress

When selecting a baby crib and mattress, it’s important you focus on safety, comfort, and practicality; take into account the size and shape, firmness, material, breathability, and how easy it will be to clean.

For a breathable and washable mattress, choose the Newton baby crib and mattress outfits with breathable, organic cotton sheets.

When selecting a crib for a newborn baby, ensure the crib meets current safety standards. Look for certification by a group like the juvenile product manufacturers association (JPMA) or check for CPSC.(consumer products safety commission) guidelines.

Beyond certification, conduct your own test by performing hands-on tests like the two-finger test for fit and the firmness test to ensure it is suitable for your baby.

Some baby cribs convert into toddler beds, daybeds, or even full-size beds, which could save money in long-term service.

Be cautious with used mattresses. While budget-friendly, used crib mattresses can pose significant risks in terms of hygiene, structural integrity, and outdated standards.

Avoid cribs with drop-down sides, as they have been banned in many places due to safety risks. Choose sturdy materials like solid wood or metal that will last through toddler years.

No toxic finishes are a plus.
The slats of the crib should be no more than 2 3/8 inches (6 cm) apart to prevent the baby’s head from getting stuck. 

EXTRA TIPS 

By focusing on these aspects, you can ensure a safe and comfortable sleep environment for your baby.

Avoid thick bedding, pillows, or bumpers in the crib as they pose a suffocating risk; stick to fitted crib sheets securely. Always check for product recalls on both cribs and mattresses before purchasing.

  • BABY MONITOR 

A baby monitor is essential for parents with newborn babies; it provides an alert for them to know when proper attention should be given to the baby.

A baby monitor allows parents or caregivers to keep an ear and eyes on their baby from a distance; this can alert them for emergencies.

For safety purposes, such as if the baby is crying, having trouble breathing, or choking, helping ensure prompt action.

A baby monitor Camara is the most reliable way to be sure you can see everything that’s happening at all times while still going about your day with at least some semblance of self-care and maintaining a routine.

For parents who work away from home or travel, some monitors allow remote viewing through smartphone apps, helping them feel connected to their child even when not physically present.

List of Clothing Essentials  

  • Jacket or cardigan 
  • Baby hats 
  • Socks 
  • Bodysuit onesies (long and short sleeves) 
  • Sleepers footed pajamas 
  • Mittens—to prevent scratches.
  • Sleep sacks 
  • Swaddles 
  • Baby rompers 

When preparing for a new baby, it’s adequate to have different types of clothing essentials to ensure comfort and practicality, and here is the list of the essential clothing items for the new-born baby.

  • BABY SUITS

A bodysuit is a one-piece form-fitting or skin-tight garment that covers the torso and the crotch; these bodysuit onesies are the foundation of the baby’s wardrobe.

 
Choose long-sleeves and short-lived opinions depending on the season of the birth of the baby. long-sleeved bodysuit You might want to dress your newborn in a long-sleeve bodysuit under their sleepsuit if it gets cold. 

  • BURP CLOTHS

Burp cloths are not clothing, but it’s essential for feeding time to protect clothing from spills; this will minimize you a lot of stress from washing clothes every day.

  • BABY PAJAMAS 

Baby pajamas, another essential is the sleep one piece, also none as a baby. It’s another essential piece of clothing for a day-one baby.

If you are looking for clothes for a newborn, you will surely find pajamas.
The importance of baby pajamas is that it eliminates the need for socks or booties and keeps the baby warm, especially during cold and sleeping time.

  • MITTENS 

New babies can accidentally scratch themselves, so mittens help to protect their faces and keep them, so it’s very important to get them for a newborn.

Mittens help keep their hands warm, especially in a cooler environment, since babies can’t regulate their body temperature, so therefore it’s essential for them at this stage to have them.

When choosing mittens, look for soft, breathable fabrics like cotton to avoid irritation. Also, look for elastic cuffs that aren’t too tight but secure enough to stay on, seamless or tag-free options for added comfort.

  • BABY HATS 

Babies tend to lose a lot of heat through the head, so keep your baby’s head cozy with a hat.

A soft cotton hat is essential, especially when taking your baby outdoors; it helps regulate the baby’s temperature.
Choosing the best baby heart depends on the season and the weather.

A broad-brimmed UPF hat for sunny days and a knit hat that covers the ear for cold.
The hat should be snug but not too tight; it should cover the baby’s head and ears properly but not slip down over the eyes or restrict circulation.

  • SLEEP SACKS 

A sleep sack, sometimes referred to as a baby sleeping bag, is a wearable blanket, a popular option for keeping newborn babies warm and cozy during sleep without the need for loose blankets, which can pose a suffocation risk. 

Sleeping sacks reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) by replacing traditional loose blankets, which are recommended for infants under one year old.

List of Transportation Essentials

These essentials will help make traveling with your newborn safer and more comfortable for both you and the baby. Ensure you have all these essentials during your newborn; it will give you a lot of comfort.

The most important items designed for newborns and rear-facing. If you have a car, you must have a baby car seat.

Look for an adjustable headrest, a five-point harness, and side impact protection; make sure it’s correctly installed using either the car seatbelt or the latch system.

  • STROLLER 

Consider a travel system that combines a car seat and a stroller. A travel system with an infant carrier, base, and comfortable stroller allows a seamless transition from a vehicle to a sidewalk.

So you don’t have to wake up your sleeping baby; the infant car seat is attached directly to the stroller without additional accessories.

TIPS FOR TRAVELING WITH NEWBORN

Double check your car seat. 

  • Buy diapers when you arrive. 
  • Pack safely. 
  • Buy baby his own seat. 
  • ToyCarry a separate diaper bag. 
  • Changing bag
  • Choose a family-friendly airline. 
  • Maintain a typical meal routine. 
  • Keep baby meals handy.
  • Bring proof of age.
  • Breast milk 
  • Bring baby carrier. 
  • Allow extra time.
  • A basic first aid kit.

Pack more diapers than you think you need, especially for flights. If flying, having a baby carrier can help keep your hands free, and a car seat might be necessary for a car ride.

Toy to comfort the baby during travels also look for a hotel or rent with cribs, kitchenettes, and approximate necessary service.

HEALTH CARE AND SAFETY 

  • THERMOMETERS 

The thermometer is essential for a newborn; if you think your baby has a fever, it’s important you use a thermometer to take the accurate temperature.

Newborns have an underdeveloped immune system and may not show obvious signs of illness, so accessing your baby temperature through touch is not an accurate reflection of their internal body temperature.

The thermometer reading will help you decide if you will need to take further action.

A newborn can lose body heat quickly; a thermometer will help ensure that the body is not too cold, especially in the first few days after birth.

A newborn can sometimes develop a slight fever after vaccinations, and the thermometer helps track their direction.

Rectal thermometers are considered the most accurate for newborns, though some parents prefer digital or infrared thermometers for convenience.

For parents, having a thermometer provides reassurance that they can monitor their baby’s health, reducing anxiety during the early months.

So it’s essential for every newborn parent to have a working thermometer for a back check-up.

  • FIRST AID KITS 

First aid kits are very essential for newborns because bumps, fevers, scrapes, gas, and more are likely to be part of your baby’s first year, and you will never know when they will pop up.

A newborn-specific first aid kit is important for dealing with minor health issues or emergencies.

So how do you stay ahead of your baby’s illnesses and injuries?.

Includes your pediatricians number and poison control contact because of emergency contact information.

For bumps and swelling, carry a cold compress; for hygienic handling during minor first aid, use latex-free gloves.
For removing splinters or other small objects, use tweezers. 

Hydrocortisone cream (0.5% or 1%) for skin rashes (only used after consulting with a pediatrician).

Teething gel should be included, especially if the newborn begins teething early.

Try always to check the expiration date on medications and restock as needed; additionally, it’s helpful to familiarize yourself with infants first aid and CPR.

List of Baby Proofing Items  

When babyproofing your home, the goal is to minimize hazards and create a safe environment for your child, so implement these essentials because it’s helpful.

Here are some of the baby proofing items.
 

  • No slip bath mats 
  • Childproof toilet seat lock
  • Baby gate 
  • Cabinet and drawer locks
  • Outlet cover 
  • Oven and refrigerator locks 
  • Baby monitor 
  • Bath thermometer 
  • Anti-slip pad for rugs
  • Cord winders
  • Stove nobs cover
  • Furniture and TV covers
  • Window guards/locks
  • Door nob cover 
  • Corner and edge cover
  • Electrical outlets cover
  • Lecture baby proofing kits 
  • Home safeguarding seat
  • Smoke detector 

Overview:

  • ANTI SLIP PAD FOR RUGS

 

Anti-slip pad for rugs keeps the rug in place to reduce tripping hazards for both the newborn and the parents.

  • ELECTRICAL OUTLETS COVER 

Outlet covers, also called receptacle covers, are designed to cover wiring for outlet devices to prevent accidental contact with live wires and protect the wiring.

This is very essential because it protects the baby from electrical hazards.

  • STOVE NOBS COVER 

Stove nob covers are safety devices designed to prevent children and newborns as they grow from accidentally turning stove nobs.

Which could lead to dangerous situations like fires or burns, while newborns are not mobile enough to reach or manipulate stove nobs.

This cover becomes more relevant as they start crawling and exploring; the cover typically encases the nob in the way that adults can operate them.

But young children cannot easily turn them to help create a safe home and environment.

  • CHILD PROOF TOILET SEAT LOCK 

Keeps your baby safe. Are you tired of constantly having to worry about your little one falling into the toilet?

Your baby or toddler is dripping their toys in the toilet ?.

The Mars baby toilet lock for toddlers is an ingenious lock that will babyproof your toilet in a second, helping to keep you back safe and sound always.

  • BABY GATE 

Baby gates are typically installed in doorways as a safety device, designed to prevent certain areas of the home that may be unsafe for babies and toddlers. 

They can help create a designated safe space for babies to play, ensuring they don’t wander into unsafe areas.

It allows parents to control their child’s movement within the home without constantly supervising every second, giving them peace of mind.
 

  • OVEN AND REFRIGERATOR LOCKS 

Oven and refrigerator locks help improve safety, prevent accidents, and ensure proper use of appliances.

The locks serve as safety and security devices in households and other settings.
Appliance lock helps keep children from accessing potentially dangerous appliances; it’s a small light adjustable lock that is ideal for ovens and refrigerators.

Oven locks are primarily used to prevent children from accidentally opening the oven, which could lead to burns or injuries.

Preventing the refrigerator from frequent openings can help maintain energy efficiency by keeping the cold inside.

Choose A Family Friendly Airline

Airline Choosing a family-friendly airline offers a lot of benefits and advantages, especially for those traveling with children or older family members.

Many family-focused airlines offer kid-friendly entertainment options, such as cartoon educational shows and games, to entertain children during the flight.

Families with young children are given priority boarding, allowing them to settle in without the rush of general boarding.

Some airlines also offer family seating arrangements to ensure parents can sit with their children.

And these airlines usually provide kids meals, which are designed to cater to young passengers preferences and nutritional needs.

stores to Buy baby things in nigeria

Both physical stores and online platforms offer convenience, but online shopping provides a wider variety of products and the ease of delivery to your doorstep.

In Nigeria, access to stores and online shopping for newborn products has grown significantly.

You can easily find baby essentials and accessories both in physical stores (ShopRite, Supermarket) and online platforms.

  • Mothercare Nigeria: Mothercare Nigeria is known for a wide range of baby clothes, car seats, feeding products, strollers, and toys.
  • Medplus Pharmacy: Medplus Pharmacy sells baby health and wellness products, including vitamins and baby care products.
  • KONGA Store:Another popular online platform with a wide selection of baby products, including healthcare, toys, clothes, and other baby items.
  • Jumia Nigeria: Jumia is one of the largest e-commerce platforms in Nigeria, offering baby clothes, feeding products, diapers, and more with delivery services.

 

TIPS FOR SMART SHOPPING.

CREATE A CHECK LIST 

Stick to essentials like baby wipes, baby bath products, baby feeding bottles, baby clothing, and cribs; prioritize necessities over luxury.

Shopping for a newborn in Nigeria can be exciting but also overwhelming due to the wide range of products available, and here I will give you some of the tips for smart shopping in Nigeria.

Buy In Bulk Items like diapers, wipes, baby formula (if not breastfeeding), and baby clothes are often cheaper when bought in bulk.

Consider buying bulk packs from shops like ShopRite, Spar, or wholesale market.

Consider Second Hand Items  

Some baby items, like strollers, baby swings, and cribs, can be bought secondhand; many are barely used and sold at a cheaper price.

Check local markets, online marketplaces like Jiji or Facebook Marketplace, or ask friends and family.

Check For Multi Functional Products

For example, buy baby products that serve multiple purposes, like a convertible crib that can turn into a toddler’s bed or a baby stroller that also doubles as a car seat.

  • SHOP DURING SALES 

Look out for sales in both physical stores and online platforms, Black Friday deals.
Back to school sales and festive period promotions often offer significant discounts.

Online platforms like Konga, Jumia, regularly have sales.

AVOID OVERBUYING NEWBORN CLOTHES.

Babies outgrow their clothes very fast in the first few months; stick to buying only a few pieces of newborn clothing and opt for slightly bigger sizes that they can grow into.

USE ONLINE PRICE COMPARISON TOOL 

Before purchasing any of the newborn items, especially making big purchases like strollers, baby cribs, or other equipment. 

Compare the prices across different stores to ensure you are getting the best deal. Use platforms like Jumia or Konga to compare the prices.

SEEK FOR HELP AND ADVICE 

Talk to friends or family members who have had babies recently; they can guide you on the best places to purchase your newborn items, what to avoid, and what you really need to buy.

LOCAL VS IMPORTED BRANDS 

Many Nigerian-made newborn products, such as clothing, creams, and bath items, are often more affordable and still of good quality compared to imported items.

Explore the local brands in markets like Lagos Island Market or Balogun Market.

BUDGETING TIPS 

Budgeting for a newborn can be very difficult and challenging at the same time, but all you need to do is set your priorities; this includes clearing up debt as soon as possible.

Practice living on a reduced income. 

  • Plan for changing expenses.
  • Labor and hospital costs
  • Baby clothes 
  • Nursery costs and other home
  • needs  Nursing and feeding expenses 
  • Diapers and changing supplies 

These whole things that are written here are worth putting into consideration to have a very good experience during a newborn.

Investing in quality newborn baby essentials is a crucial step in providing your little one with the comfort, care, and safety they deserve.

In conclusion, when preparing for a newborn, focus on essential items that cover the baby’s basic needs.
Clothing, hygiene and safety, nourishment, sleeping—here is the summary of all the things you need to know below.

  • SAFETY: A baby monitor and a safe place for the baby to play and sleep.An approved infant car seat for travel is essential.
  • CLOTHING: Soft, comfortable onesies, hats, sleepers, and socks are important.Choose appropriate clothes for the season and ensure they are easy to change.
  • HYGIENE: A baby, gentle soap, and soft towel will be needed for bathing.Diapers (disposable or cloth)) diaper cream, and wipes are very important and must-haves.
  • NOURISHMENT: For formula feeding, sterilization equipment, bottles, and nipples. If breastfeeding, consider a nursing pillow and breast pump.
  • SLEEP: Swaddles or sleep sacks can help keep the baby comfortable and safe.A safe crib or bassinet with a firm mattress and fitted sheets is crucial.

These basics will help keep your baby well cared for and comfortable while reducing stress during those early days.
You can always add other items as you discover a baby’s specific needs.

Encouragement 

Wow, a hearty congratulations on your new baby arrival. The journey of parenthood is both beautiful and challenging.

While it may feel overwhelming at times, you have got this when it comes to essential items for your newborn. Remember, you don’t need to overstress yourself because babies don’t need much like you.

Here is a little encouragement and a reminder to make it simple.

  • Sefe care 
  • Safe sleep space
  • Love and attention 
  • Feeding essentials 
  • Clothes 
  • Diapers and wipes 

You are truly doing an amazing job, and your baby feels your care and love.

All the other things you will need in this journal are just a bonus; keep it simple, trust yourself, and enjoy your journey with your newborn.
 

 

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