What are the essential newborn items recommended by Hilary Erickson?

Here are some of the essential newborn items I recommend based on my experience as a nurse and a mother:

• Infant Car Seat: This is a must-have for safety reasons and to bring your baby home from the hospital.
• Diapers: Stock up on these. You can even ask friends for their diaper coupons and scour the internet for deals.
• Blankets: These are essential for swaddling and keeping your baby warm. You can often find these second-hand.
• A Spot To Sleep: Your baby needs a safe place to sleep. This could be a crib, bassinet, or playpen.
• Burp Cloths: These are handy for feeding times. You can use old dishtowels or washcloths.
• Onesies and Sleepers: These are essential for keeping your baby comfortable and warm.
• Pacifier: It's good to have at least one on hand to soothe your baby.

Remember, you can often find many of these items second-hand or borrow them from friends. It's not necessary to buy everything new. What else would you like to know about preparing for a newborn?