The Minimalist's List

Here, in no particular order, is a list of essential baby products for those who believe less is more.

By Suzanne Schlosberg

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1. Baby bed If you go the classic crib route, look for sturdy bars, a durable finish (so the baby doesn't chew it off) and a strong mattress support that adjusts to different heights. If you want your baby closer but not in your bed, choose a bedside bassinet with straps that securely fasten the sleeper against the bed. If you prefer your baby in bed with you (Note: This is not recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics), a three-sided "bed within a bed" product is the way to go; the substantial support walls protect baby, and the open end allows for easy touching. Makes a great travel bed too.

2. Stroller For the short term, the handiest choice is a car seat carrier stroller—essentially a frame with wheels onto which you snap an infant car seat. However, your baby will outgrow it after about six months. A longer-lasting option is a traditional stroller that holds an infant car seat; many accept most car-seat brands, but some accommodate only specific makes and models, so be sure to check compatibility. Look for an adjustable handlebar height, as well as easy maneuverability and multiple reclining positions; the ability to lie flat is a must with newborns. If possible, test-drive different models at a store before you buy.

3. Car seat A great option is a rear-facing infant seat (for babies up to about 30 pounds) that snaps into a base installed in your vehicle's backseat as well as into many stroller models. Or choose what's known as a convertible car seat that stays in the vehicle and will see your baby into toddlerhood; it's designed to face the rear (for the first year) as well as the front and will accommodate a child up to about 40 pounds (some also work as boosters for children up to 100 pounds). Either way, look for easily adjustable straps and seat angles and comfortable cushioning, especially around the baby's head.

4. Diapers Stock up; you may go through as many as 20 per day! Some brands may fit your baby better than others, so experiment. Or go with a cloth-

diaper service: You place the dirty diapers outside your door and voila! Clean ones arrive the next day.

5. Feeding necessities If you plan to breastfeed and will be returning to work, or simply want dad or a babysitter to help with feedings, get yourself a breast pump. For maximum efficiency (important if you have a newborn who can't nurse or you're returning to a full-time job), rent a hospital-grade pump or invest in a high-end electric type that lets you pump both breasts at once. For less frequent pumping, using a lighter, less expensive pump should suffice but will take longer. Manual pumps require the most patience.
Even if you plan to nurse your baby, you'll need a few bottles and nipples so your baby can be given pumped milk when necessary. Just one glance at the dizzying array available will make your head spin. According to Santa Monica, Calif.-based pediatrician Jay Gordon, M.D., the flow characteristics of the nipple (slow vs. fast, etc.) are more important than the bottle shape. Latex nipples are softer and more pliable than silicone but don't hold their shape as long.

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From October/November 2007