Newborn Essentials Checklist
What you'll need to have on hand for the early days with your newborn:
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( if overseas)
Bunting bag or snowsuit for winter baby (if overseas)
Laundry detergent for infants(MILD)
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/Nursing pads (disposable or washable)
Lotion for sore nipples (Lanolin Recommended)
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/body wash (bubble bath can be used)
Baby shampoo
Baby soft-bristled hair brush
3 soft-hooded towels or soft regular 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
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
