Newborn Checklist
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.
What you’ll need to have on hand for the early days with your newborn:
Feeding
Bottles and formula: Recommendations vary on when to introduce a bottle, but you may need one sooner than you think. Options include glass or BPA-free plastic bottles, breast-mimicking or classic-style nipples, gas-reducing venting technology and more. If you’re supplementing or planning to formula-feed, you can choose between organic, soy and reflux-reducing formulas in addition to the conventional brands. Best to discuss with your physician regarding best
recommendation. Some experts suggest not keeping formula in the house at first if you intend to breastfeed. I believe in the concept of Fed is Best.
Some nursing mothers like to have these items:
• Lots of bibs
• Burp cloths. This goes without saying, but there is a lot of spit-up in your future. Keep at least 15–20 burp cloths on hand that are washed and ready for duty.
• Milk storage containers for pumped milk.
• Nursing pillow. If you’re breastfeeding, a trusty nursing pillow is a must for keeping baby in the optimal position. Among many options, you might try a contoured positioner with a clipping strap to hold the pillow in place.
• Nursing bras (if buying before baby is born, buy one cup size larger than your pregnant bra size). A nursing mom should have at least two good nursing bras or tank tops in rotation.
• Breast pads (disposable or washable)
• Lotion for sore nipples. Lanolin is the highly recommended one.
• Breast pump: An efficient breast pump can help establish milk supply or alleviate engorgement. There are many pumps on the market, but I wholeheartedly recommend renting a hospital-grade one. Simply put: They are powerful, efficient, sanitary and returnable.
If you are formula feeding:
• Lots of bibs
• Burp cloths. This goes without saying, but there is a lot of spit-up in your future. Keep at least 15–20 burp cloths on hand that are washed and ready for duty.
• Bottle and nipple brush.
• Baby bottle detergent.
• Formula (be sure to check expiry date and note the lot number in case of recalls)
• Thermal bottle carrier
• Sterilizer.
Diapering:
If you are using re-usable cloth 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)
• Changing pad
• Baby ointment or other barrier cream to prevent rash
• Disposable wipes or a couple dozen washcloths for cleaning baby’s bottom
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). Remember Spit Happens!
Blankets
• 3 swaddling blankets. The muslin kind are the best.
• 8 receiving blankets (they also make handy burp cloths)
Bathtime
• 1 plastic infant tub (or use a large dishpan in the sink).
• 12 washcloths, not used on baby’s bottom
• Baby soap or cleanser
• Baby soft-bristled hair brush
• A small comb to comb out cradle cap
• 3 soft-hooded towels
Bedtime
• Approved crib and crib mattress
• 3 waterproof mattress covers
• 4 fitted crib sheets
• 3 Sleep sacks
Other necessities
• Approved infant safety seat for car. Required by Law.
• Stroller that reclines so newborn can lie flat
• Nail file. A glass file or a battery operated nail file as these are safer than scissors or nail clippers to cut baby's nails.
• Saline drops for congestion.
• Bulb syringe for suctioning mucous
• Baby thermometer
• Mat for supervised Tummy Time
• Baby monitor
Nice-to-have items
• Change table (or just use change pad on top of dresser or bed)
• Rocking chair for feeding and cuddling
• Playpen
• Soft Baby Carrier: When you can’t put your newborn down but want to move around with your hands free, soft carriers are lifesavers. Styles range from sling to wrap to front-to-back convertible, so talk to a friend, try a few out and keep your receipts!
• Diaper bag. The best diaper bags feature
waterproof/microfiber surfaces, offer plenty of pockets for storag and can be slung cross-body or have backpack straps. A sturdy backpack also makes for a functional and cheap 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
