Congratulations! You're expecting your first child, and it's time to go shopping. Immediately you're overwhelmed with the myriad of necessities that the store clerk tells you every baby must have. The term layette is bandied about, but you're too embarrassed to ask what it does. Well you've come to the right place. The contents of a layette will be explained right here. Consider this a primer. When you're through reading, you'll be able to impress the store clerk and your significant expecting other.

Think of a layette as a starter kit for babies. Of course climate will dictate some of this, but a layette generally contains the following:

5-10 onesies depending on how often you want to do laundry
5-7 baby sleepers or nightgowns
1 cold weather sleeper if necessary
5-7 pairs of baby socks
1-2 newborn hats, depending on climate

Diapers and Bath Items

2 packs of disposable diapers or enough cloth diapers for at least two days
Waterproof pad for diaper changes
3-5 baby washcloths
1-2 hooded towels
1 bottle of gentle baby wash
Baby nail clippers
Digital thermometer

Bedding and Feeding

3-4 fitted crib sheets
4-5 lightweight blankets
1-2 heavier blankets, depending on climate
10 burp cloths
5-8 bottles, if you're bottle feeding

Remember this is a starter kit. It should get you home and through the first 10-14 days. There's no hard and fast rule about what a layette must contain. Basically, it includes whatever you need to make yours and the baby's life comfortable.

? 2006, Clara Myers. Getting ready for baby? Stop by the Babies Need Stuff Blog at babiesneedstuff.blogspot.com for ideas and great baby gifts.

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