Recently, I was at a baby shower for a young friend of mine who is expecting her first child. Most of the attendees were college friends of ours, and almost no one in the room has had a child yet. Needless to say, some of the gifts took some explaining. For many young mothers, some necessities may come as a surprise. In fact many may not know what the phrase “baby layette” means. For those, and for those who just feel like a checklist would make them feel more prepared, here are the basic things that an expectant mother and father should have waiting for the new bundle of joy.
It is important to have between four and six of all of your baby’s basic daily needs. Things like undershirts, sleeping gowns, onesies, footsie pajamas, receiving blankets, hooded towels, socks, washcloths, and daily clothing will be key, since your laundry needs are going to multiply exponentially. You don’t want to be caught in the middle of a load of laundry with a baby who has just spit up his or her lunch on her last clean shirt.
A going home outfit is of great importance, since it is the first time a lot of relatives and friends will see your baby. Not only will...