Do you ever wonder what you really need for a baby? Today my husband and I were talking about when our kids were babies. I started looking through all of our old photo albums with the kids and three hours later… we had pictures everywhere!
In those pictures, I saw all of the baby things that we had and I realized how much of it I didn't need…. and how much I did! I wish I had a mom that could have told me what babies really need at that time…
Today we are bringing to the must-have items for all newborn needs. As any mommy-to-be (and daddy-to-be) knows, shopping for a newborn baby can be overwhelming. Where do you begin? There are so many products online and in the store that it can be hard to pick out (or register for) what is needed, what is wanted and what is, in the end, completely useless.
The Baby Item Checklist
NOTE: It can be expensive if you are buying for the store. Register for what you can and don't be afraid to check out gently-used items. I was always online looking for a jumperoo or baby carrier! 🙂
- Infant-safety seat for the car
- Baby Monitor (I loved my video monitor!)
- Stroller (a big one & an umbrella stroller)
- Bassinet or basket when the baby is first born (We kept it in the living room)
- Crib including sheet sets and mattress
- Change table/ dresser
- Pacifiers
- Baby carrier (I liked our Baby Bjorn, but my friend swore by her HotSling).
Additional Nursery Items
Although these are not necessary, they can make a nursery a lot more comfortable.
- Nightlight and mobile
- Additional sheet sets (trust me on this one!)
- Dirty Laundry Hamper to keep in the nursery (again- trust me)
- Bookcase, dresser or other storage center for baby towels, clothing, etc.- be sure to latch them into the wall to prevent them from tipping or falling.
- Glider/Rocker for nighttime feeding (Get a comfortable one. You'll be glad you did!)
Diapering, Feeding and Bathing Checklist for Baby
Newborns, although as cute as can be, spend the majority of their time sleeping. However, when they are not fast asleep, they are often in need of either a feed or a change. It's so important to be prepared with these diapering, feeding and bathing essentials. Stock up now to avoid midnight runs to the shop later.
- Baby bathtub
- 2 soft washcloths, 2 soft towels
- Baby massage oil, baby bath (such as Johnson and Johnson)
- Baby grooming set including nails, scissors, brush, comb
- several packages of newborn diapers (buy one of the next size up because it happens so fast!)
- Wipes, baby ointment
- Diaper Genie or pail for soiled diapers
- Nursing pillow
- Breast pump and breast pads (if breastfeeding)
- 6 bottles and 6 nipples, nipple brush, bottle brush and formula (if bottle feeding)
- Thermal bottle carrier
- Sterilization equipment
Clothing for Newborn Baby
Most new parents cannot help but buy a whole stack of cute little outfits for their little one. You should have seen my closet from the time that the pregnancy test said: "You're Pregnant!" However, babies grow very fast so it's important to limit the budget and only buy what a newborn needs.
- 6 onesies
- 6 pairs of booties
- 5 baby sleepers
- 2 hats (newborns wear a lot of hats, especially if the baby comes early – it keeps them warm)
- 3 washable bibs
- Cardigans and jackets (depending on season)
- Several blankets including receiving blankets
The Save-for-Later Items
These items are not essential for a newborn baby, but you will want them down the road.
- High chair
- Travel Cot or Pack 'n Play
- Bouncer
Additional Tips When Shopping for Newborns
Remember what I said about buying used or taking hand-me-downs from a friend. I found that Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist & even garage sales can be a parent's best friend. (Remember to meet in an open area, of course.) Often parents are selling their almost-new items for next to nothing.
Happy Shopping! Happy Parenting!
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