The options available to new parents and parents-to-be can be overwhelming, to say the very least. Even if this isn't your first child, new products are being introduced every day, giving you an extraordinary number of options. So exactly where do you begin? Here's a helpful list that includes all the basic necessities you'll want and all the key pieces your baby will need from the moment you arrive home from the hospital.

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Skin and Healthcare Basics

What You'll Need:

Nasal aspirators help baby breathe easier when faced with a stuffy nose by gently removing mucus from the sinuses.
Diaper rash and other medicated ointmentscan be used on irritated or chafed areas. If you are unsure about the cause of a rash or irritation, please seek medical attention. Daily-use creams are available to help prevent diaper rash and keep moisture away from skin.
Thermometersare available in many styles including rectal and underarm models. Some models also offer a digital readout.
Baby's nails grow quickly, so you'll want to cut them with round-tipped scissors or baby nail clippers after bathtime to avoid scratches.
Baby aspirin or pain reliever helps to bring baby's fever down; however, always contact your pediatrician before dispensing.
Rubbing alcohol is necessary for cleaning the umbilicus and is also great for sterilizing thermometers.
Cotton balls and swabs are good for gentle cleaning of the umbilical chord, eyes, ears, and nasal passages.
Petroleum jelly can be used when inserting a rectal thermometer and to help prevent diaper rash. Also, when baby is ill, apply to irritated areas such as the nostrils.
Ipecac syrup is a liquid that induces vomiting. It's good to have on hand in case of accidental ingestion of any harmful substance. Before administering, be sure to contact your pediatrician or your local poison control center.
Soaps and baby bath cleansers are formulated to protect against drying or irritating baby's skin and are available in scented, unscented, sensitive skin, and ultrasensitive skin varieties.
Baby shampoo is formulated to be gentle on baby's skin; it rinses easily and will not burn eyes or mucous membranes.
Lotions and oils can be used to soften baby's skin after baths, for dry skin, and for infant massages.
Use sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher to protect baby's tender skin from harmful rays. Do not use any sunscreen on infants younger than 7 months old.