As the birth of your baby nears, there will be a lot to do, and assembling all the necessities for your newborn may become a daunting task. You may have a list of your own, but you may remember some, forget some, or think that you don’t need something when you really need it.
Practically, all you really need for your baby are diapers, clothes, a place to sleep, and a blanket for bundling. But we’re living in the modern world – you deserve accessories that can make your job as a new parent easier!
We’ve compiled a list of things you will need for your first baby. There are many things listed here, necessities and other baby things that you might appreciate. Still, some parents may find it a waste of money listed as nice-to-haves.
Babies need stuff – and lots of it! Use our list of baby product must-haves to stock up on necessities for the newborn to age 1. You may also want to consider our list of nice-to-have items that can make day-to-day life with your baby a little easier. You can use this checklist as a guide; you’ll be able to see and know what you need to get your baby or what items you can put on your gift registry. You can also download the checklist here.
Nursery and Baby Furniture:
- Bassinet / Crib
- Play Yard
- High Chair
- Car Seat
- Stroller
- Rocking Chair / Swing / Bouncer
- Play Mat
If you’re using a crib:
- Approved Crib and Crib Mattress
- Waterproof Mattress Covers
- Fitted Crib Sheets
- Light Blankets
If Co-Sleeping:
- Firm Mattress
- Fitted Crib Sheets
- Waterproof Pads (to place under the baby)
- Light Comforter
Clothing and Accessories:
- Undershirts or Onesies (mix of short-sleeve and long-sleeve)
- One-piece stretchy sleepers
- Pants
- Cardigans or Jackets
- Bunting bag or Snowsuit
- Special Outfit (optional)
- Clothes Storage
- Socks or Booties
- Newborn Hat
- Scratch Mittens
- Bibs (Drool and Catching)
- Receiving Blankets
- Swaddle Blankets / Sleep Sacks
- Burp Cloth
Diapering
- Diapers
- Baby Ointment for rash
- Disposable Wipes / Wash Cloth
- Changing Station / Changing Pad
- Diaper Trash Can
- Diaper Bag
- Diaper Covers
Feeding
- Breast Pump
- Nursing Pads
- Nipple Cream
- Breast Therapy Pack
- Milk Storage Containers
- Nursing Cover
- Feeding Bottle
- Bottle Cleaner
- Bottle Sterilizer
- Wash Basins
- Drying Rack
- Formula
- Feeding Pillow
- Bowls
- Baby Spoons
- Sippy Cups
- Baby Food Maker
- Mess Mat
Bathing Essentials
- Plastic Infant Tub (or use a large dishpan in the sink, or take the baby in the bath with you)
- Washcloths (not used on baby’s bottom)
- Baby Soap or Cleanser
- Baby soft-bristle hairbrush
- Soft-hooded towels
- Bath Toys
- Bath Thermometer
Other Necessities:
- Teethers / Pacifiers / soothers
- Baby Monitor
- In-ear Thermometer
- Baby Carrier
- Teething Gel
- Nail Clippers
- Colorful Mobile
- Stroller Rain Cover
- Portable Changing Pad
- Gentle Detergent
- Baby Proofing Supplies (Safety Gates, Outlet Covers, Drawer Latches. Toilet Seat Locks, Anti-tip straps, and Wall Anchors)
Nice-to-have Items:
- White Noise Machine without Lights
- Nasal Aspirator
- Infant Gas Drops
- Gripe Water
- Books
- Extra Batteries
- Portable Night Light
- Rattles and Other Baby Toys
- Activity Center
These items are compiled through what hundreds of parents need for their children. You may find some as necessities and some as not required and probably wasteful.
In the end, keep in mind that you know what’s best for your child. Buy those you think are needed and leave those you think your child doesn’t need. And then again, there are plenty of additional baby products to explore that can make your life with a baby more convenient, fun, and safe!