Essential Newborn Baby Checklist: Must-Have Products for Every Parent

Preparing for the arrival of a baby signifies the start of an exciting new journey. One of the most crucial tasks during this time is shopping for your little one. While it’s commonly believed that shopping should start once the baby is born, being prepared in advance can save you from the stress of figuring out what you might have missed. However, the list of essentials doesn’t have to be complicated.

Things to Buy for Newborn Babies:

When compiling your list of baby items, it’s essential to consider every aspect of having a newborn baby. Your newborn requires different sets of clothing and accessories suitable for every activity and every season. In this guide, we have divided newborn baby essentials into specific categories to make it easier for you to prepare for your little one’s arrival. Read on to find out the list of basic products needed for the first couple of months after the newborn baby arrives.

1. Breastfeeding

Regardless of the feeding method you choose for your little one, the list below gives you a clear idea of the baby-feeding essentials you will require.

• Nursing Clothes: For new nursing mothers, clothes in light fabrics and nursing covers are very useful. Choose good quality nursing bras, nightwear, and tops, either with buttons or loose enough to allow breastfeeding. Dark-colored clothes can help conceal stains of breast milk if it leaks. You may also opt for breast pads or nipple shields to soak up the excess milk that could leak while you are breastfeeding. Other than clothes, you would also need a good nipple cream to protect your skin.

• Breast Pumps: There are different types of breast pumps available in the market, such as electric, battery-operated, and manual breast pumps. Depending on your requirements, you can choose between pumps that have an open or closed system or pumps that work on one or both breasts at the same time. You also get some accessories along with the breast pumps like bottles, bags for storage, labels, clips, etc., which come in handy while pumping breast milk.

• Sterilizer: Whether you are breastfeeding or bottle-feeding your newborn baby, you will need to sterilize the teats, pacifiers, and bottles until the baby is a year old. Thoroughly cleaning and rinsing them in boiling hot water could do the trick, but you may not have the time or could need a better sterilizer if your baby’s immune system is weak. That’s when electric sterilizers come in handy. Studies suggest that electric sterilizers can kill about 99.9% of germs. You will, however, have to follow the directions of use that come along with the product to ensure the bottles, pacifiers, and teats are germ-free.

• Formula: If you are also bottle-feeding your baby, you will need to add feeding essentials to the baby-shopping list. Buy a brand of formula that your baby’s pediatrician recommends. Start with a single tin to see if your newborn baby has allergies, discomfort, or constipation.
• Feeding Bottles:

• Feeding Bottles: There are different types of feeding bottles available to choose from. They come in different materials like glass, plastic, and silicone. You can choose the material that suits your baby the most. Also, anti-colic nipples on feeding bottles are best for newborn babies. These bottles help minimize the amount of air a baby swallows. In addition, you need to ensure that you purchase BPA-free feeding bottles made of good quality material that can endure high temperatures.

• Bottle Cleaning Brush: It is essential to rid the feeding bottle of leftovers after every feed. When combined with the cleaning brush, the bottle sterilizer can help maintain cleanliness and hygiene for your little one.

• Thermos: A flask is an ideal container to store hot water. Boiled water can also be kept in the thermos and used to mix formula milk.

• Bibs and Muslin Cloths: While bottle-feeding or breastfeeding your newborn baby, use a bib on the baby to avoid spills and mess. Muslin cloths are ideal for mopping up spills, soaking up drool, and keeping your clothes clean while feeding your newborn. A support pillow helps with maintaining a comfortable posture while breastfeeding your baby.

2. Bedding:

While it is advisable to let your newborn baby sleep in your room for the first couple of months, it is ideal to plan his sleeping area. If you decide to co-sleep, it is necessary to keep the baby’s area firm and safe. Add a blanket and sheets based on the weather conditions and make a cozy little bed for the newborn baby.

• Crib:

• Baby Mattress and Crib: A lightweight crib or Moses basket with a firm, well-fitted new mattress is the first item that goes on your baby bedding essentials list. Avoid investing in fluffy mattresses since these could smother and suffocate the baby. Instead, buy firm mattresses use light sheets and tuck them in properly. The pillows should also be double-layered, properly stitched, and firm enough to avoid any suffocation if the baby turns in the crib.

• Baby Blanket and Sheets: Lint-free quality blankets and sheets are the best choices for your newborn baby’s bedding. The blankets should be light and breathable. Mattress protectors or quick-dry sheets are necessary to ensure your baby has a dry and comfortable bed to sleep in.

• Mosquito Net: You can never be too careful when it comes to mosquitoes around your newborn baby. A mosquito net along with an ultrasonic mosquito repellent can protect your baby from bites and diseases.

• Baby Monitor: If your baby has a nursery to sleep in, you will need a baby monitor from a good company, which will help you keep an eye on your sleeping child. Ensure it has a rechargeable and long-lasting battery.

• Mobile: Add a dash of cuteness to your baby’s bedding by hanging a mobile made from safe, non-plastic hangings. The mobile will add color to the room and also keep your baby occupied.
• Co-sleeping:

• Infant Sleeping Bag: Infant sleeping bags are perfect as they allow enough room for your baby to move their arms and legs. It’s just enough to calm them down too and prevent them from startling and hence completely waking up.

• Bed Rails: Bed rails, especially if your bed is at a level, are an integral part of ensuring that your baby doesn’t roll off the bed. These will also help you sleep with ease without worrying that your baby may fall off the bed. Make sure you invest in sturdy bed rails that leave no gaps once fitted.

Please note: There are certain rules to be kept in mind while co-sleeping:

• Make sure that you do not consume alcohol or medicines that make you drowsy while co-sleeping with your baby.
• Avoid smoking in or outside the home as residual smoke is dangerous for the baby.
• Make sure the baby is on their back.
• Co-sleep only if your baby is full-term.
• Make sure that their face isn’t covered with swaddles and blankets and they’re not too warm.
• Make sure that the mattress is not too soft.
• The baby can be breastfed while co-sleeping.

3. Diapering:

When you think of newborn babies, the first aspect that comes to mind apart from the word ‘adorable’ is ‘diaper’. This item owns a top position in the baby essentials shopping list.

• Disposable Diapers:

• Avoid buying diapers in bulk. Instead, buy sample packs of 3 brands and try each on the baby. Depending on the most comfortable brand, buy the remaining in bulk for your newborn baby. These diapers come in handy during outdoor visits.
• Cotton Nappies:

• Reusable cotton nappies are a safe option for sensitive baby skin. However, these nappies need to be changed as soon as they are soiled, which requires you to stock up on them so that you don’t run out before you can toss them in the laundry. Nowadays, reusable nappies come with a biodegradable lining which can be removed and flushed down. The cotton nappy can then be washed thoroughly in the washing machine.
• Rash Cream:

• Buy a good quality diaper rash cream and keep it handy. You may also check with your pediatrician for an effective cream and for the directions of use.
• Wet Wipes Are Not Recommended – Use Tissues, Spray Bottle and Clean Water:

• Cleaning your newborn baby’s bottom needs to be done gently and hygienically. Babies may have an allergic reaction towards a particular brand of wet wipes. They will develop diaper rash on frequent use. Use soft tissues, spray bottle and clean (drinking) water to clean their delicate skin.
• Changing Mat:

• Changing mats come in really handy to change diapers. They keep bed linen and other materials from getting soiled when you are changing your baby’s diaper. The mats that are available nowadays are easy to clean, and they are extremely useful when you travel with your newborn baby.
• Dustbins and Garbage Bags:

• You will also need separate garbage bags and dustbins to collect dirty diapers so that you can throw them out all at once. Plus, they will help you maintain hygiene in general.
• Soft Toy or Rattle:

• Changing diapers is no mean feat. Yes, your little one may still be in the newborn phase, but there will still be a bit of squirming and trying to move. A toy will help hold your baby’s attention while you finish cleaning and changing their diaper.

4. Clothing:

The first thing you must buy for your newborn baby is clothes. Newborn baby clothes must be comfortable, cotton-based, and have safe motifs if any. Buy soft fabrics and avoid, glitter, heavy embellishments, sequins, ribbons, ties, and buttons, because these can be choking hazards or be the source of skin irritation. Don’t buy too many clothes as newborn babies grow fast. Also, consider the weather conditions while buying the following items.

• Sleepsuits:

• Full bodysuits or sleepsuits for newborn babies are designed for easy changing and dressing. Buy a dozen sleepsuits with press-up buttons on the front from the neck to the ankle.
• Tops:

• Dressing a newborn can be slightly tricky considering your baby is delicate and tiny. Avoid dresses that have buttons on the back or go over the head. Buy 5-6 sets of tops or singlets that have envelope necks or open fronts.
• Socks:

• It is essential to keep your newborn’s feet warm all the time if the temperature drops or when going out. Buy up to 3 pairs of cotton socks with cute patterns for your little one to keep them warm and comfortable.
• Caps:

• A newborn baby’s head must be covered with a blanket, hood, or cap to keep him warm and give it a feeling of being secure. You can buy from a range of cotton caps available in the market and protect your baby.
• Swaddle Cloth:

• A wrap-around cotton blanket or swaddle cloth is a must. These clothing essentials for newborns are warm yet breathable and help keep your newborn protected from cold temperatures.
• Full Pants:

• Full pants are the most convenient as they keep your little one warm while also making it easy to remove and change in case a diaper change is needed.

5. Bathing and Cleaning:

For the first couple of times, newborn babies just need a quick wipe using a sponge or cotton swab. However, it isn’t long before your baby will have fun splashing water in the bath. This is also a special time when parents can bond with their newborn babies. Here are some bathing and cleaning essentials you will need for your newborn.

• Bathtub:

• Based on the size of the baby and your comfort, pick the ideal bathtub from the array of options available in the market. While plastic tubs are easier to clean, a convertible tub can expand as your baby grows. You can also choose inflatable or foldable tubs, which come in handy while traveling.
• Towels:

• Buy 2-3 soft, light-colored, cotton bath towels made from absorbent material. An absorbent material is gentle on the skin and soaks water immediately.
• Baby Wash & Shampoo:

• Your newborn baby will need a mild, tear-free, fragrance-free shampoo and baby wash. When using it for the first time, you can go for a small bottle and check how your newborn baby’s skin reacts. If there are no issues, you can stock up and continue using the product.
• Massage & Hair Oil:

• You can use traditional oils such as almond or coconut oil to massage your newborn baby. If you are buying bottled oils, get the gentle, organic-based ones, or check with your baby’s doctor for recommendations.
• Baby Cream:

• Moisturize your newborn baby’s skin with a good baby cream that needs to be applied after every bath. If you are not sure whether a cream will suit your little one, do a patch test and wait for a while. If the baby’s skin has no reaction, you can apply it all over his body.
• Baby Bath Thermometer:

• No more spending precious minutes testing the water to see whether it’s not scalding hot or freezing cold, while the water actually turns cold. A bath thermometer is a godsend.

6. Travel:

Newborns need a lot of time to sleep. However, they do need to be taken out in the sun occasionally to get their daily dose of Vitamin D. Also, newborns tend to catch infections easily, and it is best to keep them away from crowded places. Therefore, to protect your little one from the elements and from catching an infection, you will need the following items.

• Car Seat:

• A convertible, rear-facing car seat is essential. Ensure that it fits your car correctly and is easy to install.
• Stroller:

• A stroller, preferably one that can be adjusted to a car seat, is a must-have.
• Baby Carrier:

• Babies need to be held close for the first few months. A baby carrier is the best way to keep them safe and secure while you go about your day.
• Sun Shade:

• A sunshade to keep the harsh sunrays away from your little one’s sensitive skin is a must. Choose a sunshade that fits the baby stroller or car seat correctly.
• Nursing Cover:

• A nursing cover comes in handy when you want to breastfeed your baby in a public place. Choose one that is easy to use and does not draw attention.

7. Health and Hygiene:

Maintaining the hygiene and health of your newborn baby is of utmost importance. Here is a list of baby essentials you will need to keep your baby healthy and hygienic.

• Nail Cutter:

• Babies are born with very soft and fragile nails, which need to be trimmed as soon as possible to prevent them from scratching their own face. A rounded baby nail cutter is a must-have.
• Baby Gum Brush

• Baby gum brushes play a crucial role in preventing thrush and other oral diseases by promoting optimal oral hygiene and minimizing bacterial buildup in infants’ mouths.
• Thermometer:

• A thermometer is an essential baby care product. Keep a digital thermometer handy to check the baby’s temperature in case of fever. Also, get a nasal aspirator to clean the baby’s nose in case of a cold.
• First Aid Kit:

• Keep a first aid kit handy, containing band-aids, antiseptic lotion, cotton, gauze, and a thermometer.
• Baby Laundry Detergent:

• Newborn babies have extremely sensitive skin and may get a rash or allergy if clothes are washed in strong detergents. Use a baby laundry detergent to clean their clothes.

Conclusion

Having a baby is one of the most beautiful experiences. To ensure that you enjoy every moment of this beautiful journey, it is essential to be well-prepared. This checklist is a guide to the basic newborn baby essentials that every parent must have, and while it might seem overwhelming at first, just remember, you’ve got this! Good luck, and here’s to the wonderful adventure ahead!

Quick Overview Checklist:

• Feeding:
  • Nursing Clothes
  • Breast Pumps
  • Sterilizer
  • Formula
  • Feeding Bottles
    • Feeding Bottles
    • Bottle Cleaning Brush
    • Thermos
    • Bibs and Muslin Cloths
• Bedding:
  • Baby Mattress and Crib
    • Baby Mattress and Crib
    • Baby Blanket and Sheets
    • Mosquito Net
    • Baby Monitor
    • Mobile
  • Co-sleeping
    • Infant Sleeping Bag
    • Bed Rails
• Diapering:
  • Disposable Diapers
  • Cotton Nappies
  • Rash Cream
  • Wet Wipes (Not Recommended)
    • Spray Bottle
    • Soft Tissues
    • Clean (Drinking) Water
  • Changing Mat
  • Dustbins and Garbage Bags
  • Soft Toy or Rattle
• Clothing:
  • Sleepsuits
  • Tops
  • Socks
  • Caps
  • Swaddle Cloth
  • Full Pants
• Bathing and Cleaning:
  • Bathtub
  • Towels
  • Baby Wash & Shampoo
  • Massage & Hair Oil
  • Baby Cream
  • Baby Bath Thermometer
• Travel:
  • Car Seat
  • Stroller
  • Baby Carrier
  • Sun Shade
  • Nursing Cover
• Health and Hygiene:
  • Nail Cutter
  • Baby Gum Brush
  • Thermometer
  • First Aid Kit
  • Baby Laundry Detergent