The process for expecting a baby can be cumbersome, especially for first time parents or for parents with a gap between children. It is easy to get overwhelmed and forget or not know where to start. Like many projects, start with the basics. Expecting a baby and getting necessary accessories gathered should start with being prepared, focusing on environment and clothing.



First, expecting a child can be overwhelming, whether it is the first or one of a long line of children. Understanding the processes and changes of your body is paramount. Getting a good book that will explain what your body is going through will be helpful in feeling at ease during an extremely transitional period. One book that most mothers find to be a staple; What to Expect When You are Expecting.

Baby Bedding

Believe it or not baby bedding can easily cost $500 for one set. The extreme sets can be found for $3000. For the average family that is not necessary. Many department stores carry great bedding sets that are both aesthetic and functional. Many bedding sets can be purchased from $100-$200 for all the necessary pieces.

If you prefer to diversify, there are three main parts to necessary bedding; sheets, blankets and a bumper pad.

• Sheets will be the most used piece of bedding, and should be changed often, no less than once a week. It is best to have at least seven sets of sheets. In the beginning of the baby being home getting used to the baby's schedule and your schedule, laundry should not be the highest priority.

• Blankets are definitely needed, but are often highly aesthetic. Two bedding blankets are good, just in case of an accident. It is important to remember too fluffy is cute, but not the safest for newborns. Stay away from pillows, too.

• Bumper Pads are a good idea for cribs. Cribs are government regulated so babies will not slip through the cracks, but bumper pads still keep the baby from bumping themselves in the crib. Bumper pads keep the babies from getting tangled in the rungs from kicking or from moving their arms around. Often babies take a while before they understand their limbs are attached to them and they have control of them. Bumper pads help alleviate a distressed infant in the middle of the night.

Clothes

Clothes are absolutely adorable, tiny, cute and soft, but do not get wrapped up and forget about all of the necessities. Sometimes it takes some time before a baby's diet works well with them and you. Translation – babies soil many outfits in a day, so be prepared with volume. Babies should have t-shirt onesies, at least three per day, and the same for footed pajamas.

Depending on how often you choose to do laundry is dependent on the volume of clothes you get. Most families do laundry a few times a week with a new born, but scheduling varies from family to family. Bibs do help in reducing changes, not always, but they help.

Be prepared for your new born baby to make the transition and your baby's transition a little simpler.