What you’ll need to have on hand for the early days with your newborn. We listed some of our favorite newborn checklist essentials for you to stock up on. Make sure you sign up for a free Amazon Baby Registry so friends and family can help set your new bundle up with all the basics.
Feeding
If you’re breastfeeding, there aren’t quite as many items on your checklist for newborns, though there are plenty of items that you may like.
Some nursing mothers like to have these items:
- Lots of bibs: These easy-to-wash muslin drool bibs are a winner.
- Burp cloths: Save your money—these budget-friendly muslin burp cloths are literally for spit-up, puke, and burps.
- Breast pump: This Medela hands-free pump is a modern marvel you can’t live without.
- Milk storage containers: Here are some essential safety tips on storing breastmilk.
- Nursing pillow: Each genius My Brest Friend nursing pillow is crafted with better posture and added comfort in mind.
- Nursing bras: if buying before the baby is born, buy one cup size larger than your pregnant bra size.
- Breast pads: Choose disposable or washable. We love these organic, washable nursing pads.
- Lotion for sore nipples: Try this Green Forest Lady organic nipple balm to soothe and protect.
- Lactation aids: If you’re nervous about breast milk quantities, try adding this brewer’s yeast for lactation to a smoothie, cookies, or other snacks.
If you are formula feeding:
- Lots of bibs: You can never have enough muslin drool bibs.
- Burp cloths: Add more budget-friendly muslin burp cloths to your cart immediately!
- Bottle and nipple brush: This OXO bottle brush is easy to use and a cinch to sterilize.
- Formula: Be sure to check the expiry date and note the lot number in case of recalls. Enfamil Gentle Ease is pediatrician-approved to reduce baby gas.
- Bottle warmer: This Philips Avent bottle warmer offers smart temperature control and an automatic shut-off option.
- Thermal bottle tote: Save milk from spoiling when you’re on the go. This thermal bag fits up to six bottles at a time.
Diapering:
If you are using reusable cloth diapers:
- Several dozen cloth or re-usable diapers: These 10-packs of plain white cloth diapers are a good start.
- 8 waterproof covers: Try decorative, memorable designs like these easily-snapped diaper covers.
- Changing pad: This affordable waterproof changing pad secures easily to changing tables and dressers.
- Baby ointment or barrier cream to prevent rash: Try this large jar of Aquaphor.
- Snaps, Velcro or safety pins to secure reusable diapers
- Disposable wipes or washcloths for cleaning baby’s bottom: This 72-pack of sensitive skin wipes should last you through the first few months.
If you are using disposable diapers:
- Two boxes of newborn-size diapers: It’s better not to buy too many in advance in case your baby is large or grows quickly. We like these Swaddlers that offer leak protection. Diapers, wipes and other baby items should top your personal newborn checklist.
- Changing pad: Try this waterproof changing pad.
- Baby ointment or another barrier cream to prevent a rash: Doctor-approved Aquaphor is a good choice.
- Disposable wipes or washcloths for cleaning baby’s bottom: Again, this 72-pack of sensitive skin wipes should last you a while.
Clothing
- 8 undershirts or onesies (mix of short-sleeve and long-sleeve): These organic cotton bodysuits are a good choice.
- 5 nightgowns (for use until the cord falls off): Buy neutral, easy-to-wash gowns from Carter’s for about $5 each.
- 8 one-piece stretchy sleepers: Go for ones with zippers; new moms swear by them! We like bamboo-based Gunamuma sleepers. Make sure you have these on hand as you near your due date.
- 5 pairs of pants: Buy them in curated multipacks like this set from Carter’s.
- 2 newborn hats: We love these with little teddy-style ears. They easily match most baby clothes.
- 8 pairs of socks or booties, to wear with nightgowns and outfits: These fleece booties snap closed and come in plenty of colors. Load up!
