If you are getting ready to welcome a baby into your family, now is the
time to start learning about the essential items you will need in order
to be prepared. You might have an idea of what you need, but it is easy
to get sidetracked or overwhelmed as you begin to set up the nursery and
gather all the accessories you will need in the early months of your child’s
life. To get started on the right path, read on to learn about the essentials
you will need for your newborn.
The Baby Checklist
You might not realize how much your newborn baby needs until you actually
start shopping. To ensure you do not forget anything, it is wise to compile
a list of the necessities prior to the arrival of your newest family member.
Baby Clothes
When choosing clothing items for your baby, think in terms of what is practical,
comfortable, and cozy. Here are some of the essentials:
- Onesies
- Undershirts
- One-piece pajamas
- Blanket sleepers
- Sweaters or jackets
- Socks or booties (shoes are not necessary until your baby is able to walk)
- Hats (a broad-brimmed hat for the summer and a soft cap that covers the
ears for the winter)
- Bunting bag or a fleece suit for the winter
Nursery
Before you preoccupy yourself with the details of décor for your
baby’s nursery, consider these furniture essentials that will make
caring for your newborn easier and safer:
- Crib, cradle or bassinet
- A firm, flat mattress that fits snugly in the crib
- Washable crib mattress pads, fitted crib sheets, blankets for warm and
cold weather
- Rocking chair or arm chair
- Baby monitor
- Nightlight
- Dresser
Diapers
Changing diapers is going to be one of your most frequently performed tasks,
and there are some must-haves you will need to help you pick up this skill
even faster.
- Changing table or a cushioned changing pad for a table with a safety strap
or railing
- Diaper pail and liners
- Diaper bag
- Diaper cream
- Unscented baby wipes
- Washcloths
- Cloth diapers and diaper covers, or disposable newborn-sized diapers
Bath Necessities
Giving your new baby a bath will also require the right gear:
- Baby bathtub
- Baby soap and shampoo
- Soft towels or hooded baby towels
- Baby hairbrush
- Soft washcloths that are a different color than your diaper washcloths
Feeding
You will be feeding your newborn around the clock and, whether you decide
to breastfeed or bottle-feed, you will need the right gear. Here is what
you will need:
- Several bottles and nipples, both 4 and 8 ounces
- Bottle brush
- Dishwasher basket
- Several bibs
- Burp cloths
- Pacifiers
- Formula (for those who do not plan to nurse)
If you plan to breastfeed, you will need:
- A pump
- Milk storage bags
- Nursing pads
- Nipple cream
- Nursing pillow
Other Essentials
When you are preparing your baby for mealtime, or getting ready for a day
out, you are going to need some important equipment.
- Infant or convertible car seat
- Stroller or carrier
- Baby swing or bouncer
- High chair
You should also have a baby thermometer and first aid kit for when your
child gets sick.
Preparing for a newborn might seem like a never-ending list of tasks, but
once everything is settled and you welcome your new child into your home,
these new routines will begin to fit into your everyday life as you enjoy
raising and caring for your baby.
This article contains general information about medical conditions and
treatments. The information is not advice and should not be treated as
such. The information is not intended to replace the advice or diagnosis
of a physician.
If you have any specific questions about any medical matter you should
consult your doctor or other professional healthcare providers.