Newborn Checklist

Here's everything you need to prepare for your baby. We've separated essentials from nice-to-haves so you can shop smart.

Clothing

Essential

• ☐ Onesies/Bodysuits 5-7 (100% cotton)
• ☐ Sleepers/Footed pajamas 3-5
• ☐ Mittens 2-3 pairs
• ☐ Socks/Booties 3-5 pairs
• ☐ Newborn hats 2-3
• ☐ Swaddle blankets 2-3

Optional

• ☐ Bibs 3-5
• ☐ Going-out outfits 1-2
• ☐ Burp cloths 5-10

Tip: Newborn clothes get outgrown quickly. Keep sizes 0-3 months to a minimum!

Feeding Supplies

Breastfeeding

• ☐ Nursing pillow
• ☐ Nursing bras 3-4
• ☐ Nursing pads (disposable/reusable)
• ☐ Breast pump (if needed)
• ☐ Breast milk storage bags
• ☐ Nipple cream (lanolin)

Formula Feeding

• ☐ Bottles 4-6 (5oz and 9oz)
• ☐ Nipples (Stage 0/1)
• ☐ Infant formula
• ☐ Bottle sterilizer
• ☐ Bottle brush & cleanser
• ☐ Bottle drying rack
• ☐ Formula dispenser/water warmer

Both

• ☐ Burp cloths

Diapering & Hygiene

Essential

• ☐ Newborn diapers (NB/Size 1) 2-3 packs
• ☐ Baby wipes (fragrance-free, gentle) multiple packs
• ☐ Changing pad/mat
• ☐ Diaper cream/ointment
• ☐ Cotton swabs (baby-sized)
• ☐ Thermometer (no-touch recommended)

Optional

• ☐ Diaper caddy/organizer
• ☐ Portable diaper pouch
• ☐ Diaper pail

Bath & Skincare

Essential

• ☐ Baby bathtub
• ☐ Hooded bath towels 2-3
• ☐ Washcloths 10+
• ☐ Baby body wash/shampoo
• ☐ Baby lotion/oil
• ☐ Baby nail clippers/scissors

Optional

• ☐ Bath seat/support
• ☐ Bath thermometer
• ☐ Umbilical cord care alcohol

Bedding & Sleep

Essential

• ☐ Crib/Bassinet
• ☐ Firm mattress
• ☐ Waterproof mattress protector 2-3
• ☐ Fitted crib sheets 3-5
• ☐ Sleep sacks 2-3

Optional

• ☐ White noise machine
• ☐ Night light (amber/red)
• ☐ Baby monitor
• ☐ Mobile

Warning: No pillows, blankets, or stuffed animals in the crib! (SIDS prevention)

Going Out

Essential

• ☐ Car seat (infant/carrier type)
• ☐ Stroller
• ☐ Diaper bag
• ☐ Portable changing pad

Optional

• ☐ Baby carrier/wrap
• ☐ Stroller weather cover
• ☐ Nursing cover

Miscellaneous

• ☐ Pacifiers (if using)
• ☐ Rattles/Black & white toys
• ☐ Baby log app
• ☐ Vitamin D drops (pediatrician prescribed)

For Mom

• ☐ Postpartum pads
• ☐ Postpartum belly wrap
• ☐ Perineal cushion (for vaginal birth)
• ☐ Nursing bras/clothes
• ☐ Postpartum care arrangements

When to Prepare

• 28-32 weeks: Make your list, buy big items
• 32-36 weeks: Complete most shopping
• 36+ weeks: Pack hospital bag

Hospital Bag Checklist

For Mom

• ☐ ID, insurance cards, birth plan
• ☐ Toiletries
• ☐ Postpartum pads
• ☐ Nursing bra
• ☐ Comfortable clothes, slippers
• ☐ Phone charger

For Baby

• ☐ Going-home outfit
• ☐ Swaddle blanket
• ☐ Car seat (required for discharge!)

Money-Saving Tips

• You'll receive many newborn clothes as gifts - minimize purchases
• Buy secondhand for cribs, strollers, bouncers
• Take advantage of baby registry discounts
• Buy car seats and mattresses NEW (safety items)
• Wait until you need it - don't buy everything upfront