Newborn Checklist: What You Need Before 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.
By Bryce Gruber, Megan Sweeney
Updated Oct 30, 2024
Photo: iStockPhoto
What you'll need to have on hand for the early days with your newborn. We listed some of our favorite newborn checklist essentials for you to stock up on. Make sure you sign up for a free Amazon Baby Registry so friends and family can help set your new bundle up with all the basics.
Feeding
If you're breastfeeding, there aren't quite as many items on your checklist for newborns, though there are plenty of items that you may like.
Bottle and nipple brush: This OXO bottle brush is easy to use and a cinch to sterilize. This Dr. Brown's Clean Steam Sterilizer can sterilize up to six narrow or wide-neck baby bottles at once, plus other accessories.
Formula: Be sure to check the expiry date and note the lot number in case of recalls. Enfamil GentleEase is pediatrician-approved to reduce baby gas.
Bottle warmer: Everyone prefers a warm meal. This Philips Avent bottle warmer offers smart temperature control and an automatic shut-off option.
Thermal bottle tote: Save milk from spoiling when you're on the go. This thermal bag fits up to four bottles at a time.
Snaps, Velcro or safety pins to secure reusable diapers
Disposable wipes or washcloths for cleaning baby's bottom: This 72-pack of sensitive skin wipes should last you through the first few months. We also love these Terra Bamboo baby wipes made from 100% Biodegradable FSC Certified Bamboo Fibre.
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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. We like these Swaddlers and these newborn diapers that offer leak protection. Diapers, wipes and other baby items should top your personal newborn checklist.
Baby ointment or another barrier cream to prevent rash: Doctor-approved Aquaphor is a good choice.
Disposable wipes or washcloths for cleaning baby's bottom: Again, this 72-pack of sensitive skin wipes should last you a while. We also love these Terra Bamboo baby wipes made from 100% Biodegradable FSC Certified Bamboo Fibre.
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Clothing
8 undershirts or onesies (mix of short-sleeve and long-sleeve): These organic cotton bodysuits are a good choice.
5 nightgowns (for use until the cord falls off): Buy neutral, easy-to-wash gowns from Carter's for about $5 each.
8 one-piece stretchy sleepers: Go for ones with zippers; new moms swear by them! We like bamboo-based Gunamuma sleepers. Make sure you have these on hand as you near your due date.
8 pairs of socks or booties, to wear with nightgowns and outfits: These fleece booties snap closed and come in plenty of colors.
2 pairs of scratch mittens, to keep baby from scratching his face: These are especially useful for preemies and the first month. Try same-color multipack to minimize unmatched pairs.
2 cardigans or jackets, more in winter: This top-rated duo of cardigans is gender-neutral and easy to wash.
Bunting bag or snowsuit for winter baby: A popular option is this trendy metallic bunting bag with nearly-perfect reviews.
4 outfits for dressing up (optional): This one comes with matching scratch mittens and a little hat.
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Blankets
3 large cotton blankets: These Burt's Bees blankets are made of organic cotton and are easy to machine wash.
8 receiving blankets: They also make handy burp cloths, which is why affordable options are best. We like these unisex cotton flannel receiving blankets that cost about $2 each. Budget-friendly pricing makes this one of our favorite newborn checklist items.
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Bathtime
1 plastic infant tub. You can also use a large dishpan in the sink, or take baby in the bath with you, but we like the safety of this supportive infant tub. Read our guide to the best baby bathtub picks.
12 washcloths, not used on baby's bottom
Baby soap or cleanser: This all-natural, calming lavender baby soap for sensitive skin is Today's Parent-approved.
Baby soft-bristled hair brush: This Safety 1st soft brush is one of the most affordable items on the newborn checklist.
3 soft-hooded towels: Wrap them in cuteness! This organic bamboo-based hooded towel is a bestseller and is only about $13.
Eczema treatment: If your little one has sensitive skin, use this dermatologist-approved Tubby Todd All Over Ointment Eczema Treatment to treat skin issues such as dry skin, rashes and irritation. (use code TODAYSPARENT10 for for 10% off an order (one use per customer).
3 waterproof mattress covers: This just may be one of the most important additions to the newborn checklist. If you're spending money on a mattress, you'll want to keep it in top shape. Consider these waterproof mattress covers.
4 fitted cribsheets: This four-pack of bestselling crib sheets is under $30 and gender-neutral. We also love the Lulujo Muslin Crib Sheets that come in tons of cute patterns and are designed to get a snug fit to your crib mattress
Sleep sack: These Gunamuna sleep sacks are made of cozy, all-natural bamboo and are a cinch to clean. Or opt for these Cocoon Swaddle Bags from ergoPouch available in lots of colours and TOG weights.
Baby monitor: Ease some postnatal anxiety by investing in a good baby video monitor. This Nanit Pro Smart Baby Monitor comes with its own floor stand and a host of monitoring features such as two-way audio, sound and motion alerts, night vision and temperature and humidity tracking.
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If you are co-sleeping:
Firm mattress: Don't have already have one on hand? Consider making the switch to an affordable parent-approved favorite like the Zinus memory foam mattress that ships right to your door and costs less than $500 for a king size. It's also CertiPUR-certified, so you can feel good about it growing with your family.
Approved infant safety seat for car: Check out our list of the best convertible car seats and rotating car seats for brilliant buys you'll love for years to come. It's one of the most important baby essentials and often a requirement when you leave the hospital or birthing center.
A stroller that reclines so newborn can lie flat: The UppaBaby stroller we like best easily transitions from newborn through about age 4.
Bulb syringe for suctioning mucous: Choose a silicone-based model like this one that's developed for noses and ears.
Manual Breast Pump: This Lansinoh breast pump helps you manually maximize milk expression in an efficient manner
Baby thermometer: This FridaBaby rectal thermometer offers a speedy read-out and minimal discomfort. Plus, it's far more accurate than skin readings. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests keeping a baby thermometer in your first aid kit.
Eye dropper or medicine spoon: We love this FridaBaby Pacifier Baby Medicine Dispenser for those impossibly tough days when the baby is sick and not interested in taking the much-needed medicine.
Air Purifier: This option from FridaBaby has a built-in sound machine and nightlight, all in one.
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Nice-to-have items
Changing table (or just use change pad on top of dresser or bed): This Delta changing table is an affordable piece that holds plenty of diapers and baby gear. Make sure to pair it with a contoured and strapped changing pad.
Rocking chair for feeding and swaddling: We love this trendy nursery rocker with added padding.
Playpen: This anti-slip playpen will serve you well for years to come. In just a few weeks this will be exceptionally useful.
Sling or baby carrier: We love the affordable KeaBabies sling. It's a one-size-fits-most wonder.
Diaper bag: This trendy, modern diaper backpack style is easy to carry and features stroller straps and plenty of compartments. No one would know it's a diaper bag unless you told them!
2 portable change pads: Order at least a couple of these brilliantly designed, affordable changing pads for when you're on the go. Thank us later.
Sunshade for car windows: We like these from Munchkin. These are affordable and won't mess with your car's style.
4 pacifiers (if you choose to use these): These Philips Soothies are what most hospitals suggest. In our experience, we agree. Babies love them. Order a few packs.
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This article was originally published on Nov 05, 2020
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