Checklists

Newborn checklist: Everything you need before your baby arrives

The ultimate newborn baby checklist can help you determine what you'll need to purchase and prepare as you get ready for baby's birth.

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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:

 

 

Diapering:

If you are using re-usable cloth diapers:

  • Several dozen (4 or 5) cloth or re-usable diapers
  • 8 waterproof covers
  • 1 Playtex Baby Diaper Genie
  • 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 Playtex Baby Diaper Genie
  • 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 (or just bite off baby’s nails as needed)
  • 8 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

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

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