You always hear about what to purchase for your new baby before they arrive. From car seats to strollers, diapers, and more, it can be overwhelming. After my first son was born, I compiled a list of items that I felt were must-haves. Since then, I’ve had another child and thought it would be nice to update the list with items that we now rely on. Any mommy will tell you that life with young children is never tranquil or relaxing. However, a little preparation and forethought can help you get through the first couple of weeks with your newborn just a little bit smoother.
If you’re like me, then this guide will certainly help.
Nursery Checklist
Crib
The first item on our list is probably the most important: a crib. You’ll want to make sure that it fits in with the rest of your home decor and has safety features like anti-sway bars and corner posts that prevent the mattress from falling off the sides of the crib (which can be especially dangerous if there are other children in the home).
It’s also important that it has adjustable mattress height so you can use it as your child grows up.
Crib mattress
This is a must-have item, as it’s the only way your baby will get any sleep at night. You’ll also want to make sure it fits in your crib frame (most do).
If you plan on having more than one child and want to save money by reusing the mattress, look for one that will fit two different sizes of cribs (some convert from one size crib to another).
Bedding
Your baby will spend most of his or her time sleeping in bed with you, so choose bedding that’s comfortable for both of you. You’ll also want something light enough for easy washing but warm enough for winter nights when the temperature drops low enough to require heat lamps in the bedroom.
This could be a set of sheets, blankets, and pillows, or just one of each, it all depends on how much space you have in the nursery and how much money you’re willing to spend.
Some parents prefer fitted sheets because they stay in place better than flat sheets do, others prefer flat sheets because they offer more versatility when changing linens throughout the day (or night).
Either way, make sure all your bedding is machine washable since babies tend to make messes wherever they go.
Bassinet
A bassinet is a small bed with sides and a canopy that attaches to a dresser or changing table. You can use it as your newborn’s first bed, but because it’s small and easy to move around, you’ll likely use it longer than other baby equipment.
Bassinets make nighttime feedings easier in your room, or they can be placed in another room while your child sleeps so siblings don’t disturb them during the night.
Night-light
A night light is a necessity for parents of newborns. They’re so tiny that they don’t need bright light shining on them when they’re sleeping. A dim light will help keep them from waking up when someone walks by their crib or makes noise in another part of the house.
It also makes it easier for parents to check on their sleeping babies without turning on bright lights or disturbing them with voices or footsteps.
Choose one with a low level of light that won’t disrupt your sleep if he turns it on during the night (or vice versa).
Pacifiers
With so many choices available today, there’s a pacifier for every baby. Choose one that appeals to you and stick with it, as babies tend to reject unfamiliar ones.
Some moms prefer silicone pacifiers because they’re more durable than latex, which can break down over time; others like the added flexibility of “soothies,” which are made from latex but have a silicone nipple inside them (these tend to be softer and more pliable).
Some babies are born preferring one type of pacifier over another, if yours seems confused by all the options, try offering him two different types of pacifiers at bedtime for a few nights and see which one he prefers best (as long as both are clean).
Clothes storage
This is probably one of the first things you think about when preparing for a new baby. You’ll need somewhere to store all of those adorable outfits and accessories.
There are many different options for hanging clothes, including closet organizers, wall racks, and dressers with drawers.
You can also use open shelving or even a closet with no doors for easy access to baby clothes.
Nursery glider or rocking chair
This is one of those things that you don’t need right away, but once you start using it, it will become one of your favorite pieces of furniture.
Gliders are great because they move with you, no matter how much rocking you do, the fabric won’t wear out like other types of chairs might do.
Toy basket
A toy basket provides storage space for all of your child’s toys so they are easily accessible when needed. It also helps keep them in one place so they aren’t scattered all over the house.
The best part? These baskets can double as nightstands or even dressers depending on their size and design. They come in many shapes and sizes ranging from modern to contemporary so pick one that fits with your style.
Mobile
Get one that plays music or has lights that move with the wind from an outlet near the crib. Mobile mobiles aren’t essential, but they’re inexpensive entertainment for babies who can’t yet focus on objects up close.
Just make sure the mobile has no sharp edges or points that could injure your child if he gets tangled in it.
Playtime Checklist
Baby swing
Babies love being rocked and cuddled, so a baby swing can help calm them down when they get fussy or overtired.
Plus, it allows you to take care of other things around the house while still keeping an eye on your little one.
Baby bouncer
A bouncer is another cozy spot where your baby can relax and play while staying close by.
Some bouncers also come with toys that hang overhead so your baby gets more stimulation during playtime.
Portable play yard
You probably don’t want to keep your newborn in the same room as your older child all day long (or vice versa).
If that’s the case, invest in a portable play yard that allows your baby to stay in his own space while still being nearby enough for you to keep an eye on him.
Toys
There are so many toys available for babies these days that it can be hard to know where to start. Some will be useful from day one, others will wait until later on. Here’s what we’d recommend:
Playmat
A playmat that provides a safe place for your baby to play when they’re awake is essential. It should be easy to fold up and store away when not in use.
If there are places where it folds down flat, then this makes it easier for storage too.
Feeding Checklist
Burp cloths
These are small, absorbent towels that fit over the shoulder or around the neck to protect your clothing from spit-up.
They’re also great for wiping up spills and drool. You’ll want to have at least three on hand, but don’t worry if they’re not all exactly the same.
Nursing cover
These come in handy when you’re out in public and need privacy while nursing. They can also be used as a car seat cover, burp cloth, and changing pad.
Look for one that has plenty of room inside so your baby won’t get overheated or smothered by a tight-fitting cover.
Receiving blankets
These lightweight blankets are used for swaddling newborns, changing tables, and strollers.
Choose soft ones made from natural fibers like cotton or bamboo, synthetics tend to irritate babies’ sensitive skin.
Keep several on hand so you always have one clean when needed (don’t use them.
Nursing pillow
A breastfeeding pillow can help keep your baby supported while nursing. It also makes the whole process more comfortable for you.
Look for one with a strap that wraps around your waist to keep the pillow from sliding out from under you.
Bibs
Bibs are great for catching food dribbles before they hit the floor or table. You can also use them when feeding your little one so that nothing gets on her clothes or yours.
Bottles and nipples
You’ll need bottles for breast milk or formula as well as nipples that fit properly onto the bottles.
A variety pack of both will come in handy when you’re traveling or hosting visitors.
Breast pump
A breast pump is essential if you’ll be breastfeeding and want to store milk for later use.
Some pumps come with a built-in bottle filler so that you can pump directly into a storage container without having to transfer milk manually.
Bottle warmer
Warm milk is easier on a baby’s tummy than cold or room-temperature milk, so having a bottle warmer at home or in the diaper bag can make feeding time easier for both of you.
You’ll find warmers that heat up either one bottle at a time or multiple bottles simultaneously, choose whichever option works best for your family’s needs.
Formula
Whether you plan to breastfeed or bottle-feed, make sure you have enough formula for at least two weeks’ worth of dinners and breakfasts.
Formula lasts for about six months once opened, so if you don’t use it right away, you may need to buy more before the expiration date arrives.
Milk storage bags
You’ll need these if you plan to freeze breast milk or store formula in advance.
They come with multiple compartments and are easy to use, just fill them with milk and snap shut with a click.
Bottle brush
You should use a bottle brush to clean bottles and nipples after each use. Cleaning the nipple regularly will prevent mold from growing on it.
If you don’t want to get one, try boiling your bottles instead.
Bottle sterilizer
To keep your baby safe, wash bottles in hot water and then place them in a sterilizer when they’re dry. This will kill germs that may be present in the water or on the bottle itself.
Bottle-drying rack
If you plan on using disposable bottles, this is an essential tool to keep around because it will help dry them off quickly and prevent mold from growing inside of them.
You can also use this for glass or plastic bottles when you’re traveling with a baby on the go because it helps keep everything organized.
Diapering Checklist
Changing table
Most parents prefer to use a changing table, which can be placed next to the crib or on the floor. Some parents get by with a large wooden box that they can put on a table or counter.
Diaper pail
You’ll need something to store dirty diapers in until you’re ready to wash them out. A simple plastic trash can works well.
Changing pad
Keep this on your changing table or in your diaper bag. It provides a soft surface for the baby and prevents her from sliding off the table while you change her diaper.
Cloth pads are more absorbent than disposable ones and easier to wash, but they require more storage space when not in use.
Disposable changing pads come in handy when traveling or camping because they take up less space than cloth pads and are easy to dispose of when no longer needed.
Diapers
Newborns go through eight to ten diapers each day at least during their first few weeks at home; some babies use more than twice that many.
If possible buy several packs of newborn-size diapers before your baby is born so that you won’t run out during those initial days when changing diapers.
Washcloths
Washcloths are great for cleaning up messes, whether it’s spit-up or poop, when you’re out with your baby, or at home washing bottles after feedings.
Get more than one so that if one gets dirty, there’s still another clean one ready for use.
Wipes
You’ll use a lot of wipes. Stock up on some soft ones, and make sure you have a way to keep them moist in the diaper bag.
Wipes are also great for cleaning your baby’s face, hands, feet, and bottom. If your baby has sensitive skin, try using unscented wipes or those made with aloe vera or vitamin E for added protection.
Diaper rash cream
Diaper rash cream will help prevent and treat diaper rashes. Some babies are more prone to rashes than others, so be sure to stock up on this essential item.
Diaper pail
A diaper pail is an absolute must for storing dirty diapers before you throw them in the trash, it keeps your nursery from smelling like baby poo.
Diaper pails are available in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors. Keep in mind that you’ll also need trash bags designed specifically for diaper pails (which you should probably buy in bulk).
Clothing Checklist
Swaddle blanket
A favorite among moms of newborns, swaddling helps comfort babies during sleep and can reduce crying. It also helps new parents sleep better while they adjust to life with a newborn in their home.
Pajamas, sleepers, or sleeping sacks
Depending on the temperature where you live, your baby may need a few different types of clothing each day. Pajamas (or footed pajamas) are great for warmer days as they keep little toes warm without added layers like leggings or pants would require.
Sleepers are another good option if you want something easy to take off quickly when changing diapers during the night while still keeping the baby warm enough through the night.
Sleeping sacks are great for cold nights because they cover everything except their face; they’re made from soft fleece or cotton flannel material and usually zip up.
Undershirts and one-piece outfits
Babies can’t regulate their own body temperature until around 3 months old, so dress them in layers for warmth or coolness as needed.
Choose undershirts made from natural fibers like cotton or bamboo because they breathe well even when wet with spit-up or drool.
One-piece outfits like bodysuits or rompers give your little one an extra layer that’s easy to take on.
T-shirts
The most basic item for baby clothing is a plain white T-shirt. These come in handy for changing diapers and can be worn under other shirts or sweaters.
You’ll also want at least one “special” shirt that’s made out of soft fabric and has frills or other embellishments on it.
These are often given as gifts at showers, so they’re easy to find at any store that sells baby clothes or online.
Leggings or stretchy pants
Leggings are great because they’re warm enough for fall and winter but thin enough to keep babies cool during warm months too, they’re usually made from cotton or polyester fleece instead of thicker fabrics like denim jeans or corduroy pants, which can make babies get too hot easily.
Sweater or jacket
If your baby is born in winter or early spring, he’ll need a little extra warmth. A sweater or jacket is a great way to keep him comfortable in cooler temperatures.
Look for one that has snaps or buttons at the bottom so it can be taken off easily when he needs to nurse.
Socks or booties
These are optional for the first few months but become an essential part of your baby’s wardrobe once she starts walking. They keep little feet warm and reduce the risk of frostbite from cold floors in the winter months.
Make sure they’re not too thick, as they can make it hard for babies to walk normally, plus, they’ll just add bulk to tiny feet.
Look for socks made from natural fibers like cotton or wool; these are more comfortable than synthetics and allow your baby’s skin to breathe easier.
Hat with brim
A hat protects your child’s head from the sun and keeps it warm in the winter months. Make sure that the hat has a brim around it; this will help keep the sun out of your child’s eyes.
You don’t need to buy expensive hats any hat with a brim will do.
Knit hat or cap
A knit hat is similar to a beanie, but it doesn’t go all the way around the head like a beanie does. This type of head covering can be pulled down over a baby’s ears if necessary.
It also gives babies’ heads more room to grow before they fit into regular hats.
Bunting bag or snowsuit
A bunting bag or snowsuit is great protection against wind and cold weather, plus they keep babies snug as a bug in their car seats when they’re not being worn.
These are especially handy if you plan on taking walks with your baby during her first few weeks of life.
A bunting bag is like an oversize sleeping bag for infants, it zips up under the arms so babies can’t kick off blankets or covers while sleeping outside at night or indoors during winter months too cold for them to stay uncovered without risk of hypothermia.
Bath Time Checklist
Baby bath seat or tub
A baby bath seat will keep your newborn safe while you bathe her. Some seats include a removable insert that can be used as a baby tub and then stored away after use.
Shampoo
Choose one without added fragrance or color so it won’t irritate your newborn’s delicate skin. Baby shampoos are gentle enough for frequent use, too.
Soap
Bathing your newborn is much different than bathing an older child because they cannot sit up on their own and can get soap in their eyes easily.
Soaps made for babies are milder than regular soaps, which makes them safer for baby skin. Look for tear-free or hypoallergenic baby soaps.
Cup
A cup with a handle that’s easy for you to hold can be helpful when rinsing the shampoo out of your baby’s hair or pouring water over his head during a sponge bath.
Towels
Towels are essential for drying off your little one after their bath. They also make great play mats when you’re out and about.
Washcloths
Washcloths are another must-have item for a baby. They can be used for wiping up messes and cleaning up after feedings too.
Baby moisturizer
Baby’s skin is much more sensitive than ours, so we want to make sure they’re protected from harsh chemicals in products like soap or shampoo.
A good moisturizer will help maintain the baby’s naturally soft skin without causing any irritation or dryness.
Final Thoughts
Well, there you have it, a comprehensive list of what we believe to be the most essential items for nearly any new parent. As these are definitely not the only items that you will need for your child, we’d like to hear from you; what’s on your essential list? Which items do you absolutely need, and which ones aren’t worth the money or the space in your home? Please share, and happy shopping.
