Newborn checklist: Everything you need before your baby arrives

What you’ll need to have on hand for the early days with your newborn:

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 (here are some essential safety tips on storing breastmilk)
• 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
• 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
• 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)
• Changing pad
• Baby ointment or other barrier cream to prevent rash
• Disposable wipes or a couple dozen washcloths for cleaning baby’s bottom

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)

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 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)
• 4 fitted cribsheets
• 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
• Bulb syringe for suctioning mucous
• Baby thermometer
• Eye dropper or medicine spoon
• Medication in case of fever
• Baby monitor

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

Read more:
Five things your baby doesn’t need in the first year
7 ways to save money on diapers
11 best baby registries