The ULTIMATE Newborn Baby Essentials Checklist – Things you need for a newborn after birth + PDF Printable
Whether you’re drawing near your third trimester or you’re putting together your baby registry checklist, this baby registry checklist will cover all the bases.
Because there are just so many baby things to buy before birth – but do you REALLY need them all?
If you don’t want to waste time or money, then you’ll love this baby shopping list for first-time moms!
Let’s be honest, we all overspend on our babies. It’s so hard not to and I can tell you there are so many things that you absolutely don’t need to buy, at least for the first year of the baby.
I know this because we were on a tight budget at the birth of our first child and we actually bought very limited stuff for her. Believe me, that was enough.
And even though I could buy a lot of stuff for my 2nd baby too, but I preferred to stick to what I bought for my firstborn.
Looking back, now that I’ve done the newborn thing twice, I know what really needs to be on the list of things you need for a new baby and what doesn’t.
Although I can’t save you from overspending, I’ve done my best to narrow down the items I think are absolutely essential.
Newborn Baby Checklist: What to buy before your baby comes?
This baby registry checklist covers everything you would need for your baby. I have also made an entire blog post of all the postpartum essentials for moms you need to look into. It covers everything from boobs to butt for new moms.
To make it easy, I’ve split everything up into different categories. I know the list can be long but I hope breaking it down for you guys will make it less overwhelming.
I hope that this is a comprehensive and helpful post as you are preparing for your little one. So, here is your baby shopping list for first time moms or second or third don’t worry I have got you covered 😀
What newborn must haves should I get:
The newborn baby essentials checklist shouldn’t be exhaustive but there are things you have to have before your baby arrives for smooth running of post-baby scenario and to save your sanity. So, what does a newborn actually need? Like ACTUALLY!!
In The Nursery:
A list of a few things you need in the nursery or if you plan to keep your baby in your own room!
A Crib:
Babies grow super fast and you’ll be transitioning them soon to a bed before you even know it. So don’t go for a top-of-the-line crib.
Try not to buy a convertible crib. Here are a few options you can go for if you’re buying a baby crib:
Don’t go for a top-of-the-line crib – babies grow fast and you’ll be transitioning them to a bed before you know it!
A Crib Mattress:
When it comes to crib mattresses, you want to find something that’s soft and firm to avoid SIDs. It properly fits the dimensions of your crib and is of good quality. Here is the crib mattress that has all the above-mentioned features.
Baby Monitor:
Keeping an eye on your baby is super important, especially during the first years. The majority of the parent now is steering away from audio-only monitors and going for video monitors.
A baby monitor is amazing and it offers superior quality pictures. My recommendations are Summer Baby Pixel, Infant Optics, and Babysense monitors.
It’s great to be able to see your baby while he/she sleeps. It gives extra comfort and peace of mind to parents.
It’s a MUST-HAVE newborn baby item to add to your registry!
Rocker or Glider:
Getting a compy seating for your baby’s nursery will help you a lot. A glider can be perfect for nursing and cuddling your sweet newborn baby.
Babywearing has its own benefits but you simply need a rest sometimes, so carrying a 10-pound baby all day would hurt your back.
Having an ergonomically designed rocking chair can help take this pressure off while soothing your infant at the same time.
Choose one that fits your furniture, so you can enjoy it with your other household items even after your baby is all grown up.
A sound machine:
The white machine has proven from time to time to work wonders in helping babies doze off to sleep.
There are many different types of sounds that machines can produce. The calming sound of streams, the wind in the trees, the chirping of birds, and even machinery can cause babies to sleep deeply.
The reason behind this seems to be that white noise machines produce sounds that are soothing for infants.
You can also use an app on your phone or tablet but it’s better to have a noise machine rather than putting your mobile beside your child every single time.
If you are looking for something to keep your fussy baby asleep for a long time, this white noise machine is something that you should invest in.
Bassinet, Moses basket, or Co-Sleeper:
Not all babies will immediately sleep in their cribs.
It is better to get your baby to sleep in your room during the early days. it gives you peace of mind and reduces the risk of SIDS.
Getting a separate bassinet beside you means you’ll be able to sleep more while the baby stays with you. It makes it easier on nighttime feedings too. Just look at what fits your style and budget!
You can also choose a co-sleeper! My favorite options are DockATot and Snuggle Me.
After a couple of days, you can start using Moses baskets which are super cool as you can move your sleeping baby wherever you want to in the house.
Swaddle Blankets (5) & Sleep Sacks (2-3).
Swaddling a baby keeps it from moving vigorously and helps in sleep too. Babies love small spaces and cuddling. They have been used to it in their mother’s womb.
Swaddling gives them a similar feeling of sense of reassurance once they’ve left the womb. Zip-up swaddled are very comfortable and easier than most of the other swaddle blankets in the market.
I also love and recommend the HALO SleepSack and Miracle Blanket for swaddling made easy.
Zip-up swaddles make comforting your baby 10 times faster.
Diapering Essentials
First of all, there are two options you can choose when diapering your baby. Either you can opt for disposable diapers or you can go for cloth diapers.
Option one: Disposable Diapers
Diapers:
If you are thinking about how many newborn diapers to buy, I would recommend you to buy one box (104 per package) at a time.
Babies grow super quick and their sizes change in a matter of weeks. It is better to buy less and see if your baby needs a switch.
Every child is different, but if you really want to stock up diapers in advance buy lower volume.
You can buy these diapers! They’re nice and soft compared to other brands out there.
Diaper Pail:
You don’t have to spend money on buying diaper pails, to be honest. But if you really want to keep those smells at bay, then my favorites are Ubbi and Dekor Diaper Pail.
Baby Wipes:
You need wipes even when you don’t have a baby!
It’s a must in my house so I thought so. I love Water Wipes for everything. They’re basically made of 99.9% water and just a tiny bit of fruit extract.
These wipes are going to touch your baby’s skin 10x times a day, so it’s important that they’re all-natural and free of chemicals like:
- alcohol
- perfume
- chlorine
- formaldehyde
- parabens
- phthalates
- sls and sles
- lanolin
You’re going to use A LOT of baby wipes, so stocking on these is a total YES!
Bum Cream:
Diaper rash in babies is very common and happens to almost all babies. I recommend getting a good diaper cream. I use the Weleda Line and I highly recommend it.
The tube is big enough to last you several months. You just need a pea-sized amount to cure most of the diaper rashes.
Changing Pad:
I love this changing pad to start with. It’s a portable heavy-duty changing pad that you can wipe clean and works on any surface perfectly.
But I highly recommend buying a dresser instead of a changing pad. The dresser can grow with your baby in his own room. Here is an inexpensive one for you!
Diaper Bag:
Another essential must-have for newborns is a diaper bag. It helps you to stay organized. At first, I just had a very casual diaper bag, to begin with. But then I found this diaper bag and fell in love with it.
The best part is it has a lot of compartments to help you stay organized. Another specialty is its built-in diaper changing station.
I had a lot of issues changing my kid’s diapers when we go outdoors. This diaper bag is a must-have and how can I forget about the USB charging facility it has!
Option 2: Cloth Diapers
As a mom of two, I find cloth diapering way too cheap in a long run. This will save you tons of money that you need to spend on disposable diapers in baby years.
Cloth Diaper:
Basically, you need 30-40 cloth diapers at the start just to avoid doing laundry every single day!
But better to start with low. You can buy 12-13 cloth diapers and a few liners for bedtime leaking. If you find this manageable with your lifestyle, you can purchase more.
If you’re new to cloth diapering, you may want to consider putting your baby in a cloth diaper part-time – using cloth diapers at home and disposable diapers when you’re out and about.
Normally, a traditional cloth diaper has a square sheet that you pin closed. I love snaps more as they’re easy as putting a button-up onesie on your baby.
I like pocket-style cloth diapers which have removable inserts. A perfect baby must-have for first-time moms!
Liners:
Cloth diaper liners look like pads inserted in the diaper to prevent leaking. You’ll need regular liners that come with the cloth diaper covers and overnight liners to take care of diaper leaking at night.
You would also want to change your baby’s nappy every hour unless he is napping so that your baby doesn’t develop a rash due to wetness.
Health and Bath Essentials
Taking extra care of your newborn baby is not a luxury but a must during the first years. Everything that is related to health was my first priority with my kids.
And…. arming yourself with the right supplies makes these first years a breeze. BELIEVE ME!
Here are a few items to add to your newborn baby essentials checklist that I have personally used and recommend.
Bath seat:
Having a bath seat would really make bath time easier and fun. I used a bath seat with my first child as I was a new mom and would literally FREAK OUT by just an idea of giving a bath to my child!
I bathed by 2nd baby in a sink or with me in the tub instead of in a baby bathtub.
So, you can buy a baby-sized bathtub just to stay in a safe lane. As a new mom, this is perhaps a non-negotiable newborn must-have.
Nail Clippers or Nail Files
If you’re not comfortable using nail clippers with your newborn you can use nail files. Using nail files is less terrifying and is a safer way to give your baby a much-needed manicure to prevent scratches.
A good shampoo and body wash + Lotion
The tearless shampoo is a must for your baby. I bought a Johnson bath discovery pack for each of my babies.
There are so many other brands to consider, depending on how natural you like to keep your baby products.
You don’t need to buy them in bulk as you literally need a pea-sized amount of shampoo for each wash.
I like Johnsons basically, but this creamy shampoo from Aveeno is also a great choice.
Nose Nasal Aspirator
My first baby was born in September when the weather got really chilly where I live. Most nights I spend clearing her nose as she was so irritated with blocked nostrils.
That was my case, but most infants suffer from congestion, so you should definitely purchase a nasal aspirator to provide some serious relief.
Thermometer:
A thermometer is a must-have newborn safety item which is critical especially after your little one’s first vaccine at 8 weeks old. You should go ahead and buy it beforehand as you are eventually going to use it, so just keep it in a family first aid box.
Hairbrush:
It’s better to have a soft cradle cap brush for your baby to gently loosen and remove skin flakes from your baby’s scalp.
Please DO NOT pick at or scrape these flakes!
Feeding Essentials
Now, this is something that’s totally up to you momma!
You choose how you want to feed your baby. Whatever suits you and your baby, you can pick that from here and buy it before the baby arrives.
Here I have mentioned 3 categories. A few things are probably the same in each category. You can pick the category you want to go for and move from there.
If Breastfeeding:
Your baby is going to need feeding of course. I have personally breastfed both of my babies. I really love how simple, convenient, and cheaper option it is.
Note: Even if you plan to breastfeed your baby, buy a few bottles of ready-to-feed formula on hand.
Nipple Butter/Cream
during the first few months, your nipples can become sore and painful due to feeding. I literally had cracked and sore nipples that were too painful to feed the baby.
Nipple butter or creams can come in really handy at this time. Simply apply the nipple butter every time to prevent cracked and chapped nipples.
I used this one from Earth Mama – as there are no harsh chemicals in it so, you don’t have to worry about wiping it off each time you want to feed your baby.
Nursing Pillow & Cover
A good nursing pillow makes it easier and comfortable to feed your newborn and helps in a good latch.
I bought one when my first child was born and I used the same for my other child. I have that nursing pillow still and now I use it under my laptop when I work sometimes LOL.
So you see, it’s a long-term investment. So, choose a quality one over something with a cute pattern. This nursing pillow is my most favorite and the best one to try.
The Covered Goods nursing cover is also my favorite. It’ lightweight and breathable, plus it makes it easy to view the baby while keeping you completely covered.
Nursing Bras & Pads
Nursing Bras makes it super convenient to feed the baby on demand. Have a couple of nursing bras with you and trust me they do come in handy.
Choose a variety of high-quality ones that has room for nursing pads as well. This will prevent leaking through your clothes.
I recommend having 6-7 nursing bras and normally 4-5 daily bras.
If you are looking for something to take care of your breast and prevent leaking, buy these Bamboobies nursing pads which are incredibly soft.
There are a lot of varieties in nursing bras like you can buy this one for sleeping in, this one to wear normally in a day, and this one if you plan to workout.
Breastmilk storage bags
If you’re exclusively breastfeeding you would need a few bottles to keep in the fridge to store the milk. Or you can buy breastmilk storage bags if you plan to use the milk later.
You don’t know when you might have an unexpected dip in your supply and you need to look for it in your freezer.
You can try Parent’s Choice Breastmilk Bags as they are cheaper than other brands out there.
If you ever have an unexpected dip in your breastmilk supply here are a few tips to increase breastmilk supply.
If Pumping:
You know you can’t be around your baby all the time, so thanks to pumping and bottles. Here are a few things you would need when you plan to pump.
Breast Pump
Thanks to the pump so that women can still feed their babies later and it’s great for women who can’t nurse but wants to give their breastmilk to their babies.
My two favorite breast pumps are Medela Freestyle Breastpump and Spectra S2 Plus Premier Electric Breast Pump.
Bottle Drying Rack and Brush
Although you can use what you have with you to clean baby products. I prefer to use a designated brush and baby-safe dishwasher to clean my baby products and to keep them extra clean.
Bottle drying racks can come super handy and are specifically designed for small and uniquely shaped parts that come with baby bottles.
Bottles and Nipples
You’re going to need some bottles whether you decide to breastfeed or bottle-feed your baby. You can’t be around your baby always, so you need them.
My all-time favorite bottles are Tomme Tippee (I used them with both of my babies), Nanobebe, and Mimijumi.
The main reason I chose to buy these brands is that I chose to exclusively breastfeed my babies. As much as I tried, my kids never accepted any bottle.
These bottles have hey have no-flow nipples that work like natural breasts, giving your baby full control of the flow of milk through suction and compression.
You can buy a couple of nipples (2-3 extra) just in case you need them. I bought a few as my kids started teething soon and would mesh the nipple in their mouths, so I desperately needed a few.
Manual/Handheld Breast Pump (if you need one)
I mostly breastfed my kids and whenever I was on the go, I decided to keep it simple and go with a manual handheld pump like this one.
This lightweight and compact pump will be your go-to for pumping on the go.
Bottle Sterilizer
Honestly speaking, those big fancy steam sterilizers are not necessary at all. They are cool if you want convenience and have money, but you don’t need them.
Your dishwasher can do the same thing. However, if you don’t want your food residue to get on your baby’s things, then go for Dr. Brown’s and Avent’s.
Bottle Warmer
Heating milk in the microwave is NOT RECOMMENDED so it is better to invest in a bottle warmer.
It’s faster and ensures that milk is evenly heated.
The following items are repeated from the above-mentioned category.
- Breastmilk Storage Bags
- Nursing Bras and Pilow
- Nursing Cover
- Nipple Cream
If Formula Feeding:
Here are just two basic things along with the other mentioned stuff you need if you plan to formula feed your baby.
Formula
Always choose a formula that’s easy to digest for your little one and contains high-quality ingredients.
You can also youse ready-to-use formula for your newborn for its convenience on the go.
Formula Dispenser
There are several options available for formula dispensers including plastic containers, mixing pitches, and automatic machines.
Choose the one that suits your budget and lifestyle. However, an automatic formula dispenser will make your life a thousand times easier with your first baby!
The following items are repeated from the above-mentioned category.
- Bottle drying Rack and Brush
- Bottle Sterlizer
- Bottle Warmer
- 4-5 Bottles
Baby Gear
A Car Seat:
One of the most important items a parent will purchase after their baby is born is a car seat. This should be purchased new as an old one cannot be trusted to withstand a car crash (God forbid).
Many hospitals won’t even discharge mom and baby until they have a car seat installed. For both of my kids, I used a Chico car seat and a stroller combo.
They are a great option to consider and I don’t feel like I should give any other options as this one is a perfect purchase for a newborn baby registry.
You must install a car seat 3-4 weeks ahead of your due date, so you’re ready at any time for a hospital trip.
Stroller:
Like I said a combo of Chico car seat and stroller is an economical option and a good investment before the arrival of your baby.
But there are so many other options to try. UPPAbaby VISTA is one of the top-rated strollers out there for a reason.
It’s a quality stroller and grows with your family – like up to three children when you’re using an attachment like Rumble Seat and PiggyBack.
Clothing Essentials
This category involves some must-haves newborn baby items and some you just want to have as a luxury. You can never have more or less clothing, RIGHT?
- 10-15 Onesies – The really keep diapers intact and reduces leaking. They are a must-have
- 5-10 Pairs of Pants – Having them will reduce your laundry load because newborns are MESSY!
- 5-10 Footie Pajamas – Full-zip closures are great for easier outfit changes
- 1-3 Jackets/Sweaters – You only need them if you live in a cold area. I didn’t buy them at all as I live in humid area
- 2-4 Sleepsacks/Swaddles – It’s a newborn baby essential item for keeping them warm, secure and help in sound sleep.
- 1-5 Dress-Up (Nice) Outfits – Depends on you totally, whether you want to purchase or let people gift them to you in a baby shower.
- 2-5 Hats – Babies get cold easily, especially their heads and ears. So, be sure to get a few hats for your little one.
- 4-8 Pairs of Socks – My kids never took them off even during hot and humid whether. Socks keep kids warm and you don’t have to worry about milk cold if they have their socks on.
- 4-7 Bibs – A must have baby item for drooling as you’re going to need a lot of them.
- 1-5 Sets of No-Scratch Mittens – Those little fingernails can be sharp and babies easily scratch themselves so you need these mittens.
- 4-6 Burp Cloths – A necesarry newborn baby item to have whenever you burp that tiny creature.
So, there you have an ultimate list of baby items you need when your baby arrives!
Now the most important thing I want to mention here is, PLEASE don’t overwhelm yourself with this list!
You can purchase a few items from this list, wait, and see if you need more according to your lifestyle. You can purchase bottles, breast pumps, and other stuff as needed, rather than stockpiling them in advance only to find out you don’t need those things.
What a new Mom needs after giving birth?
We covered after-birth newborn essentials in this article, but MOM probably needs more things than baby actually needs!
Here’s a full list of postpartum supplies mom needs to have on hand after baby.
Newborn Baby Essentials Checklist Printable
Here’s your newborn essentials Checklist printable that you can download and use it. Please click the button below to get it directly on your email.
What do you guys think? Did this list help you figure out what you need to buy when having a baby?
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Don’t Forget To Pin It For Later!
The ULTIMATE Baby Registry Checklist – Things you need for a newborn after birth + PDF Printable
I am the Wife, Mommy, & Blogger behind All Moms Blog learning to run my own home and raise up kids while chasing my dreams. I work to support, inspire, and encourage moms in the journey of motherhood to make their lives easier without losing your sanity.