Preparing for the arrival of a newborn is an exciting yet challenging journey. There’s so much joy in expecting a new baby, but the preparation feels overwhelming—especially when buying all the gear and essentials your little one will need. It’s time to draw up your newborn baby to buy list.
Whether you’re a first-time parent or adding another member to your growing family, it helps to have a well-organized plan for what to buy and prioritize. To make things easier, this guide will help you understand what newborn essentials to get, why they’re important, and how to avoid overbuying unnecessary items. Let’s get started!
Newborn Baby to Buy List: Checklist of Essentials and Gear
Your newborn’s arrival marks the beginning of a wonderful, yet busy, time. From late-night feedings to diaper changes and soothing sessions, having the right tools at your disposal makes the difference. This guide will cover every category of newborn gear, so you feel fully prepared when your baby arrives.
1. Nursery Essentials: Creating a Safe and Comfortable Space for Your Baby
The nursery is one of the first spaces you’ll want to set up before your baby arrives. This is where your newborn will sleep and where you’ll spend a lot of time in those early days and nights. When planning, focus on comfort, safety, and functionality. The key items in your baby’s nursery occupy the top space in your newborn baby to buy list.
Crib and Mattress: The Foundation of Safe Sleep
The crib and mattress are non-negotiable on your newborn baby to buy list. A safe crib and mattress are needed for your baby’s sleep environment. Newborns sleep much, and a sturdy crib provides your little one with a safe space for long naps and overnight rests. Other features to look for are:
- follows the latest safety regulations
- firm, snug-fitting mattress designed for infants
- waterproof mattress cover to protect against leaks and spills
Changing Table and Storage Solutions: Making Diaper Changes Easier
You can’t escape diapering in your newborn care routine. Hence, a diaper changing table should be on your newborn baby to buy list. Diaper changes will be a frequent part of your daily routine, so having a dedicated changing area makes your life simple. Don’t forget to include these items in your diapering station:
- waterproof changing pad
- multiple washable pad covers
- diaper caddy stocked with diapers, wipes, and creams
- rash bin or diaper pail to keep the area clean and odor-free
Baby Monitor: Keeping an Eye on Your Newborn from Afar
A baby monitor offers peace of mind, especially when you’re not in the room with your newborn. Modern baby monitors have audio, video, and movement tracking. Many parents find video monitors helpful for checking in on their baby during naps or at night without needing to enter the room and risk waking them up. Having a baby monitor is particularly beneficial in large houses, as it allows the caregiver to move freely while keeping a close watch on the little one. Here’s what to consider:
- Monitors with long battery life or plug-in options
- Video clarity and night vision for easy viewing in the dark
- Two-way communication to soothe your baby from another room
- Movement or breathing monitors for added safety
2. Feeding Essentials: Providing Nourishment and Comfort
Breastfeeding Gear: Tools to Support Nursing Moms
A few key items can make the process more comfortable and convenient. While breastfeeding is a natural process, it also comes with challenges, so having the right supplies makes a difference. Here are must-haves:
- Breast pump: Many nursing moms find this essential, even if they plan to breastfeed. This allows you to express milk and store it for later feedings, giving you more flexibility.
- Nursing bras and pads: These offer easy access for breastfeeding, and pads help prevent leaks.
- Nipple cream: Breastfeeding can sometimes cause sore or cracked nipples, especially in the beginning. Nipple cream provides relief and promotes healing.
- Nursing pillow: This helps you find a comfortable position while breastfeeding, reducing strain on your arms and back.
Bottle Feeding Essentials: Options for Breastfed and Formula-Fed Babies
Even if you plan exclusive breastfeeding, having a few bottles on hand is a good idea. You may want to pump milk so that a partner or caregiver can feed the baby, or you might need to supplement with formula at some point. Bottles are a key part of the feeding process, whether breastfeeding or formula feeding. Here’s the checklist:
- 6-8 bottles with slow-flow nipples for newborns
- A bottle warmer for quick heating
- Bottle sterilizer or a large pot for boiling bottles and nipples
- Bottlebrush for cleaning
Burp Cloths and Bibs: Small But Essential
Babies are notorious for spitting up, especially after feedings. Keeping burp cloths handy saves you from changing outfits—yours and your baby’s. Bibs are another must-have for bottle-fed and breastfed babies, as they catch milk dribbles and spit-up. Opt for soft, absorbent material and adjustable snap closures for easy on-and-off access.
3. Clothing Essentials: Keeping Your Baby Comfortable and Cozy
Onesies and Bodysuits: The Basics of Baby Fashion
Onesies, or bodysuits, are the foundation of every newborn’s wardrobe. These simple, one-piece outfits make diaper changes quick and easy thanks to their snap closures at the bottom. Since your baby will likely undergo multiple outfit changes, have a stock of onesies. Look for soft, breathable cotton fabric that won’t irritate your baby’s sensitive skin. Here’s the checklist for baby’s clothing:
- 5-7 onesies or bodysuits
- 5-7 sleepers or footed pajamas for nighttime
- A few short-sleeve and long-sleeve options depending on the season
- 2-3 pairs of mittens to prevent scratching
- 2-3 soft hats for warmth
Outerwear and Seasonal Clothing: Preparing for the Elements
If your baby is due during the colder months, consider outerwear. For winter babies, a warm jacket or snowsuit is essential for trips outside. Don’t forget a hat, mittens, and warm socks to keep their extremities covered. For summer, opt for lightweight fabrics and sun hats to protect your baby’s delicate skin from the sun. Since newborns can’t wear sunscreen in their early days, shield them with the right gear. Here are the seasonal essentials:
- warm jacket or snowsuit
- cozy hat that covers the ears
- mittens and booties
- light, breathable layers for warmer months
Swaddles and Blankets: Cozy Comfort for Your Newborn
Swaddling helps many newborns feel secure, mimicking the tight quarters of the womb. Swaddles are specifically designed to wrap snugly around your baby, preventing them from startling themselves awake with jerky arm movements (a reflex known as the Moro reflex). You can also use blankets, but pre-made swaddles with Velcro or snaps are easier for new parents to manage. Consider these swaddling options:
- 3-4 swaddle blankets or Velcro swaddles
- 2-3 lightweight blankets for layering
4. Diapering Essentials: Keeping Your Baby Dry and Happy
Disposable Diapers vs. Cloth Diapers: Making the Right Choice
- Disposable diapers are convenient and easy to use. They come in various sizes, so find the right fit for your baby. While they create more waste, they offer unparalleled convenience, especially for parents on the go.
- Cloth diapers, on the other hand, are eco-friendly and can save money in the long run. Although they require more frequent washing, many parents choose them for their environmental benefits and softer feel.
Regardless of the type of diaper, disposable or cloth, have enough stocks on hand, as newborns go through up to 12 diapers daily. In addition to the diapers, you’ll need a few other key items for diapering: Here’s the diapering checklist:
- 2-3 large boxes of newborn-size disposable diapers or
- 20-25 cloth diapers (with inserts and covers)
- Diaper pail or wet bag for storing dirty diapers
- Diaper rash cream or ointment to prevent and treat irritation
- Baby wipes (hypoallergenic options are best for sensitive skin)
Diaper-Changing Supplies: Keeping Everything in Reach
A well-organized changing station can make frequent diaper changes less of a hassle. In addition to diapers and wipes, creams, lotions, and extra clothes help streamline the process. Stock supplies in various changing areas in your home, especially if you have a larger house. Ensure to have these essentials:
- Diaper caddy to keep everything organized
- Changing pad with a waterproof cover
- Easy-to-reach wipes and hand sanitizer for clean-ups
- A trash bin with a tight-fitting lid or diaper pail for dirty diapers
5. Bathing Essentials: Keeping Your Baby Clean and Comfortable
Baby Bath Tub: Bathing Your Newborn Safely
While some parents bathe their newborns in the sink, a baby bathtub provides more security. Baby tubs are designed with infant safety in mind, offering extra support to prevent slipping and sliding. Look for a tub with a non-slip surface and a gentle incline to keep your baby’s head above water.
Gentle Baby Wash and Shampoo: Caring for Delicate Skin
Newborns have sensitive skin, so choose a mild, fragrance-free baby wash and shampoo. Avoid harsh chemicals and opt for products labeled as hypoallergenic. Many baby washes are formulated to be “tear-free,” meaning they won’t sting your baby’s eyes if they accidentally get some soap on their face. Here’s a checklist for the bathing routine:
- Baby bathtub or bath seat
- Gentle baby wash and shampoo
- Soft washcloths for cleaning delicate areas
- Hooded towels to keep your baby warm after baths
6. Health and Safety Essentials: Keeping Your Baby Well and Protected
Baby First Aid Kit: Handling Minor Health Issues
Babies, like adults, can experience minor health problems. Whether it’s a stuffy nose, a slight fever, or a small scratch, a well-stocked first aid kit helps you treat common issues quickly and easily. Your kit should at least contain these essentials:
- Baby thermometer for checking temperatures
- Nasal aspirator to clear stuffy noses
- Infant acetaminophen (Tylenol) for fevers or discomfort
- Antiseptic cream and bandages for minor cuts or scrapes
Babyproofing Essentials: Creating a Safe Environment
As your baby grows, they’ll start moving around more, so take some safety precautions in your home. Babyproofing doesn’t need to be done immediately, but having a few basics in place is helpful once your little one starts becoming more mobile. Here are the basics:
- Outlet covers to prevent little fingers from poking into electrical sockets
- Cabinet locks for keeping cleaning supplies and other hazards out of reach
- Safety gates to block stairs or other dangerous areas
Learn more about preparing for your baby’s arrival on this article: What Newborn Baby Needs: A Comprehensive Guide of 10 Essentials for Expecting Parents
7. Travel Essentials: Getting Out and About with Your Baby
Infant Car Seat: Keeping Your Baby Safe in the Car
An infant car seat is one of the most important items on your newborn shopping list, as you’ll need it to bring your baby home from the hospital. Look for a car seat that meets the latest safety standards and is designed for newborns. This means it has a snug, rear-facing fit. Other features to look for are:
- 5-point harness for safety
- Side-impact protection
- LATCH system for easy installation
Stroller: Making Walks and Errands Easier
A reliable stroller is another must-have for getting out and about with your newborn. Depending on your lifestyle, you might want a lightweight, compact stroller for city living or a more rugged model for off-road adventures. If you plan to jog or hike, consider a stroller designed for those activities. Here are the options:
- Lightweight stroller for easy portability
- Full-size stroller with multiple recline positions
- Jogging stroller with durable wheels for outdoor use
More about strollers? This article might interest you: The Top 10 Strollers Every New Mom Should Consider
Prepare Your Newborn Baby To Buy List for Stress-Free Planning
Preparing for a newborn involves a lot of planning, but having a clear, organized checklist can take much of the stress out of it. Focus on essentials first—like providing safe sleep, feeding, and travel gear—and add extras as you see fit. By covering all your bases, you’ll be ready for whatever those first few weeks of parenthood throw at you.
For more detailed insights on newborn care, don’t miss our guide on newborn health and tips for ensuring your baby’s safety. Happy parenting!
