It’s hard to believe that your tiny baby needs so much stuff. You’ve probably been planning and adding to your newborn baby checklist nonstop for months, but it’s easy to forget must-have items, particularly when you’re tiredly waiting for your new arrival. No need to worry — just go shopping with this newborn baby checklist in hand.
- Rear-Facing Car Seat
“Have your baby’s car seat installed, latched and ready to go before your due date in case your baby arrives early,” suggests Louida Martin, the creator of Product Review Mom. Babies need to ride in rear-facing car seats until age 2, so look for an infant-only or convertible car seat and follow the installation instructions exactly.
- Baby Carrier
“Look for a soft-structured carrier that works from birth until toddlerhood and keeps your baby’s spine and legs in an ergonomically correct position,” says Andrea Traynor, the editor-in-chief of review site MommyGearest. For extra convenience, try one that has multiple carrying positions.
- Swaddling Blankets
“Swaddling blankets help babies sleep longer and mimic the feeling of being snuggled in the womb,” says Bianca Borne of A Mother’s Haven Support Center and Baby Boutique. Look for breathable cotton versions, or find swaddling wraps, which take the guesswork out of how to swaddle your baby correctly.
- Diapers and Wipes
Whether you use cloth or disposable, you’ll need to change at least 10 diapers daily. You’ll want a small supply of diapers with an umbilical cord cutout at first, but remember — newborn diapers only fit until your baby reaches 10 pounds. You’ll also need enough wipes to fill a local landfill, so consider natural or biodegradable options.
- All-Purpose Ointment
“It’s super versatile and helps soothe irritations associated with diaper rash, eczema and dry skin,” Borne says. Buy one for your home and one to keep in the car or diaper bag.
- Bassinet or Cradle
Many newborns prefer cozy, small sleeping spaces for the first three or four months, at which time you’ll need to switch to a crib. A bassinet should be small enough to fit in your room conveniently, and the mattress should be firm and fit snugly in the bed’s frame. If you don’t want to buy a bassinet, you can opt for a bassinet insert for your baby’s crib instead.
- Travel Crib
No need to forgo vacation during your baby’s first few months. A nice extra for your newborn baby checklist is a get-up-and-go, easy-to-assemble travel crib. Look for a lightweight model that can sleep your child into his toddler years — bonus points if it comes with a carrying case.
- Bottles and Breastfeeding Supplies
Even if your baby is breastfed exclusively, you’ll need a breast pump, bottles and nipples before you know it. If you don’t have a dishwasher, make sure to pick up an electric bottle sterilizer and dryer, too. Don’t forget a breastfeeding pillow and soft bibs and burp cloths.
- Rocking Chair
It feels like luxury, but a rocking chair is an absolute, must-have necessity. If possible, go for some self-pampering with a glider ottoman combo. After all, if you have to be up in the middle of the night, you might as well be comfortable.
- Rectal Thermometer
Pediatricians recommend rectal thermometers for accuracy. Go for an easy-on-the-eyes digital version, with a quick reading time. Also look into models that save previous temperature readings to help you track your baby’s fever.
- Onesies, Sleepers and Socks
“Make sure you have at least half a dozen sleepers and onesies on your newborn baby check list because they live in those the first few months,” says Traynor. You’ll also need baby socks to keep little tootsies warm.
- Baby Monitor
An absolute must, baby monitors are available in less expensive audio or pricier video options. Either way, make sure yours has at least a 300-meter range and LED alert system.
- Bathtub
A baby bathtub that fits right into your sink is a great space saver. These can be as simple as a molded plastic tub, or you can get higher end versions that grow with your baby or vibrate for a spa-like bath. Don’t forget baby soap and hooded towels!
- Seasonal Clothing
If your baby comes home in cold weather, you’ll need a snowsuit or bunting for outings.
- Stroller
Strollers can be as cheap as $20 or cost thousands of dollars. Consider where you’ll be using it the most before looking for one that fits your budget and lifestyle.
No matter how much new stuff is making its way into your home, remember the one thing your baby absolutely can’t do without: you.
Corey Whelan is a freelance writer specializing in everything mom, living in New York City.
