New Baby Checklist

Essentials

Health and Hygiene

  • Bath Tub – Once that umbilical cord stump falls off you’ll be able to bathe baby. Some people use the tub or the sink, but I really like having a baby tub as it helps keep baby propped up while you’re washing him.
  • Baby Cleanser – You’ll want a mild cleanser like Johnson and Johnson that won’t irritate your babies eyes.
  • Nail Clippers – It is amazing how sharp a babies nails are and how fast they grow. They have a tendency to scratch their faces so you’ll want to be diligent in keeping them trimmed and filed smooth.
  • Thermometer – You’ll want to keep one of these on hand. You don’t want to have to run to the drugstore in the middle of the night if you suspect your baby is running a fever but aren’t sure. And your Pediatrician will want to know their temperature when you call. If you get a digital thermometer you’ll want to test it out. You don’t want to have to figure it out when baby is sick and fussy.
  • Baby Tylenol – You may never need it but it is good to have on hand for fevers and teething.

Diapers/Changing

  • Diapers
  • Wipes
  • Diaper Rash Cream
  • Hand Sanitizer – You won’t always be able to run and wash your hands after changing baby so I keep a bottle of hand sanitizer on the changing table.
  • Changing Table – You’ll be spending a lot of time here!

Feeding

  • Nursing Bra
  • Nursing Pads
  • Breast Cream
  • Pump – If you plan to breastfeed I recommend that you also have a pump. You may need it for a variety of reasons: Pump at work, establish and maintain your milk supply, build up a supply to freeze for an emergency.
  • Milk Storage Bags
  • Bottles/Nipples – Even if you are breastfeeding you may need a few bottles to feed your baby while you are at work or to allow your partner to share in the feeding experience…or just to give your self a break!
  • Burp Cloths

Clothing

  • Onsesies/Bodysuits
  • Sleep and Plays
  • Sleep Sacks
  • Knit Hats

Sleep

  • Crib – Even if you get a Co-Sleeper or bassinet or if your baby sleeps with you a crib is still great to have. It’s a safe place to put your baby down during the day.
  • Bedding – You’ll want at least two fitted sheets for the crib, one to use and one to swap out when you’re doing the laundry. We use a mattress pad as well.
  • Blankets

Travel

  • Car Seat – You won’t be able to bring baby home by car without one.

Not Essential But Nice to Have

Health and Hygiene

  • Baby Towels – Baby specific towels aren’t necessary, but they are more lightweight and have a little hood to keep their head warm.
  • Diapers/Changing
  • Diaper Pail

Feeding

  • Comfy Chair – Whether you are bottle feeding or nursing you’ll want a nice comfy chair to feed your baby in, preferably one with padded side arms and an ottoman or foot stool.
  • Bottle Rack – These really are useful in allowing airflow into the bottles to dry them properly.
  • Bottle Brush – You’ll want to have a bottle brush dedicated to washing bottles. I prefer a brush with bristles only.

Sleep

  • Pacifiers
  • Baby Monitor
  • Music player

Entertainment

  • Swing
  • Mobile
  • Bouncy chair
  • Jumper

Travel

  • Diaper Bag
  • Baby Carrier / Sling
  • Stroller

Down the road – 6 months and beyond

Health and Hygiene

  • Nasal Aspirator

Diapers/Changing

  • Swim Diapers

Feeding

  • High Chair
  • Sippy Cups
  • Suction Plates
  • Baby Spoons
  • Food processor or Hand blender
  • Baby Food Containers

Clothing

  • Shoes