A list of everyday toiletries and medicines for newborn baby care, including fever and pain relief, digestive aids, breastfeeding supplies, bodywash and creams, and remedies for diaper rash, nasal congestion and pain and fever.
Digestive aid
Over the counter Mylicon and Little Tummys (simethicone) and gripe water (e.g. Mom’s Bliss brand) can help with reducing colic and gas.
Breastfeeding supplies
For breastfeeding mothers, a lanolin cream, such as Lansinoh or Medela, or a cocoa butter formula, such as Palmer’s Nursing Butter, can help soothe and cure cracked nipples. Medela also make nipple shields which might help with latching on to a small or inverted nipple and provide relief to the mother.
Diaper rash
Popular diaper rash prevention creams come in two varieties: a mixture of lanolin and petrolatum, such as A&D Original and Aquaphor, or zinc oxide based, such as Desitin and Boudreaux’s Butt Paste. Pure petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, can also work to create a moisture barrier.
Nasal congestion
Saline drops, such as Ayr, work great to loosen up mucus buildup inside the nose. Mothers can then suck out with a bulb syringe (also known as nasal aspirator) or NoseFrida Snotsucker.
Thermometer
Hospitals may provide the family with a rectal thermometer. Digital in-ear thermometers, which are often used in pediatricians’ offices, is available for purchase under the Vicks brand.
Fever and pain relief
The only fever and pain relief medicine approved for newborns until 6 months is Infant Acetaminophen (Tylenol). You can also stock up on Infant Ibuprofen (Motrin) and Baby Orajel or Hyland’s Teething tablets after this age. Always ask your pediatrician for dosage and instructions before administering any medication to your baby.
Grooming
Babies with hair often get cradle cap. To remove it, you would need some oil (Johnson & Johnson’s, which is petroleum based or coconut or olive oil) and a fine tooth comb. Many children are also born with long, sharp nails that need trimming, so keep a baby sized nail clipper or Emory board in stock. Although some pediatricians no longer recommend cleaning the unfallen umbilical cord with isopropyl alcohol, cotton puffs and swabs are always useful.
Body washes, creams and lotions
Johnson’s Baby makes a complete suite of baby care washes, creams and lotions. Other options include Aveeno Baby (oatmeal based), and natural brands such as California Baby and Burt’s Bees. Mothers of babies with particularly dry or sensitive skin may prefer brands such as Cetaphil and CeraVe, which are often recommended by pediatricians for eczema, but can benefit general dry skin as well.
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