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Newborn essentials checklist
What you'll need to have on hand for the early days with your newborn
By //
Originally published on TodaysParent.com April 01, 2010
Clothing
- 8 undershirts or onesies (mix of short-sleeve and long-sleeve)
- 5 nightgowns (for use until the cord falls off)
- 8 one-piece stretchy sleepers (go for ones with zippers; new moms swear by them!)
- 5 pairs of pants
- 2 newborn hats
- 8 pairs of socks or booties, to wear with nightgowns and outfits
- 2 pairs of scratch mittens, to keep baby from scratching his face
- 2 cardigans or jackets, more in winter
- Bunting bag or snowsuit for winter baby
- Laundry detergent for infants
- 4 outfits for dressing up (optional)
Blankets
- 3 large cotton blankets
- 8 receiving blankets (they also make handy burp cloths)
Feeding
If you’re breastfeeding, you don’t really need any equipment.
Some nursing mothers like to have these items:
- Lots of bibs
- Burp cloths
- Breast pump
- Milk storage containers
- Nursing pillow
- Nursing bras (if buying before baby is born, buy one cup size larger than your pregnant bra size)
- Breast pads (disposable or washable)
- Lotion for sore nipples
If you are formula feeding:
- Lots of bibs
- Burp cloths
- 8 four-ounce bottles with nipples
- 6 eight-ounce bottles with nipples
- Bottle and nipple brush
- Formula (be sure to check expiry date and note the lot number in case of recalls)
- Thermal bottle carrier
Diapering
If you are using re-usable cloth diapers:
- Several dozen (4 or 5) cloth or re-usable diapers
- 8 waterproof covers
- 1 diaper pail
- Changing pad
- Baby ointment or other barrier cream to prevent rash
- Snaps, Velcro or safety pins to secure re-usable diapers
- Disposable wipes or a couple dozen washcloths for cleaning baby’s bottom
If you are using disposable diapers:
- Two boxes of newborn-size diapers (it’s better not to buy too many in advance in case your baby is large or grows quickly)
- 1 diaper pail
- Changing pad
- Baby ointment or barrier cream to prevent rash
- Disposable wipes or a couple dozen washcloths for cleaning baby’s bottom
Bathtime
- 1 plastic infant tub (or use a large dishpan in the sink, or take baby in the bath with you)
- 12 washcloths, not used on baby’s bottom
- Baby soap or cleanser
- Baby shampoo
- Baby soft-bristled hair brush
- 3 soft-hooded towels
Bedtime
If you are using a crib:
- Approved crib and crib mattress
- 3 waterproof mattress covers
- 4 fitted cribsheets
- 4 light blankets that fit in the crib
- Sleep sack
If you are co-sleeping:
- Firm mattress (not a waterbed)
- 3 waterproof pads to place under baby
- Light comforter (keep away from baby's head)
- Sleep sack
Other necessities
- Approved infant safety seat for car
- Stroller that reclines so newborn can lie flat
- Nail clippers or scissors (or just bite off baby’s nails as needed)
- Bulb syringe for suctioning mucous
- Baby thermometer
- Eye dropper or medicine spoon
- Medication in case of fever
Nice-to-have items
- Change table (or just use change pad on top of dresser or bed)
- Rocking chair for feeding and swaddling
- Playpen
- Sling or baby carrier
- Diaper bag
- 1 or 2 change pads
- Plastic hangers for closet
- Sun shade for car windows
- 2 or 4 pacifiers (if you choose to use these)
- Rattles and other baby toys
- Mobiles
- Night light
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What do you think?
Valerie (not verified) says ....
I would also add for breastfeeding moms: to make sure you have clothes that will pull up or pull down easily. You can also get a nursing cover in case you'd want to nurse while friends and family are around (or you can put a baby blanket while nursing but I find that it falls down too much and it becomes uncomfortable).
Amanda (not verified) says ....
My baby is due June 11th. My husband and I travel a lot. What do I need for that I would like a check list for that. Camping, hiking, and seeing family in FL. What would I need for traveling??
paulbeartil (not verified) says ....
hi there think they blocked me or something , give them a call there very helpfull
pb
Jennifer (not verified) says ....
This will be our second baby. Our daughter is already 3.5 years old so I've forgotten some of the things that are on your list (thanks!). From my experience, I would highly suggest to first time moms to get a swing or bouncy chair and a sling or baby carrier. These are must haves with my baby #2 after my tiring (but worth it!)experience with my first! Enjoy your motherhoods!
~Before children you are the portrait; after children you become the frame (unknown)
Amanda (not verified) says ....
Im having my first baby in April 2012 and this is a great checklist! Thanks!
Crystal (not verified) says ....
I was not sure where on EARTH to start and this list gave me somewhere! Thank YOU SO MUCH!!!! Being a first time mother is scary.
Florence (not verified) says ....
So much help..
Lisa (not verified) says ....
This was so helpful! I was panicking a bit since our baby is due in March and I felt we didn't have everything we needed. However, after reviewing this list I think we have all of it! Thanks again!
Catie (not verified) says ....
I have an 11 month old... and i am also 20 weeks pregnant, due in march 23,2012. Since my son has grown out of alot of things i for got what you NEEDED. This was so Helpful now i won't go out and but the things i think i need cause alot was waisted with my son... we bought things we thought we would need but never used them... But this reminded me what i need so my Little girl can be safe and Healthy Thank you!!!!!
Anonymous says ....
Thank you for the info! We are expecting our first in March and I am starting to panic as I don't feel I know what I need!
kayla (not verified) says ....
I would add a baby monitor, and a bouncy chair (my kids LOVED theirs) or a swing
MitsKitty (not verified) says ....
I'm a first time mom and this helps a lot... Thank you!
ashley (not verified) says ....
Love it
Celeste (not verified) says ....
Thank you kindly for this list, it really helps.