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
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)

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 (disposable or washable)
Lotion for sore nipples

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
Baby shampoo
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

If you are co-sleeping:

Firm mattress (not a waterbed)
3 waterproof pads to place under baby
2 comforters (depending on the season)

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)
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