by Christa Abernathy

Created on: January 16, 2007   Last Updated: April 28, 2007

We're all told what to have when baby is born. There are checklists on every parenting site and in every magazine. But they're all different! How can you know what you'll need?

1. Look at your due date.

If you're having a Summer baby, you'll want a lot of t-shirts and onesies. In contrast, with Winter babies, you'll want more sleeper sets and snow suits.

2. Where do you live?

If you live in a hot and humid climate, look for cute little shorts sets with tank tops to have ready in your layette. But remember that babies get cold at night just like the rest of us so have a few nice sleepers on hand too.

If it's cold where you live, remember that layers are your friend. Onesies are great under clothes.

3. Do you know the sex?

Be prepared for either gender, even if you "know" the sex. Ultrasounds have been wrong before. However, have more clothes that are either gender neutral or in the shades you associate with the sex you "know" you're having.
Want it to be a surprise? Buy lots of yellow, green and white. But pick out one nice outfit for a boy and one for a girl so you're ready for first photos and coming home.

4. How big a baby are you expecting?

By the 8th month, the doctors should be able to hazard a guess at how large or small your baby will be. Remember that 0-3 month clothes are an approximate. Some babies are too small, so be sure you can find preemie clothing before the baby arrives.

5. Remember the suggestions for preventing SIDs.

There are great sleep products for babies that do not include traditional receiving blankets. Try a swaddler instead. It's a pouch like blanket that velcros around the baby and keeps them snug and taco style wrapped. Other choices include a bunting bag or a blanket sleeper. Both of these are warm alternatives to blankets that snap on around a baby without becoming a smothering risk.

6. Decide on cloth type you want.

Many new moms decide that all cotton is the best route to go. Others still make the decision that Organic cotton is even better. What ever you decide, make sure you let friends and family know before the shower.

In the same vein, decide early on if you're using cloth diapers or disposable. The issue becomes the same.

7. If you're breast feeding, you might also want a pouch or ring sling in your layette.

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