Baby Checklist

As a doula, I bring my experience to this topic, but it’s important to remember that these are suggestions, not strict rules. Among all the things to do when preparing for your baby's arrival, shopping for baby essentials is probably high on your list. You'll want all your gear ready as soon as your little one arrives. Setting up the nursery and ensuring you have the basics for sleeping, eating, and diapering can keep you busy. However, the amount of baby supplies a newborn needs might surprise you. Wondering how to decide which baby items to skip and which are essential? Don’t worry! Here's a complete list of things you might need for your new baby.

Baby Essentials

Baby Wardrobe Essentials

4-8 onesies
4-8 shirts
Choose a kimono-style with snaps or envelope folds at the shoulders
4-8 pants
Footies can be a great option
4-8 one-piece pajamas
1-3 sweaters or jackets
Look for ones that are front-buttoned
4-7 socks or booties
Shoes are unnecessary until baby starts walking
1-3 newborn hats
Broad-brimmed for a summer baby, soft cap that covers ears for a winter baby. No hat for indoors! It is not recomended.

Sleep

Fitted Crib Sheets: Ensure they fit snugly to prevent any safety hazards.
Baby Monitor: While it's recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics for babies to sleep in the same room as parents for safe sleep practices, a baby monitor is useful when you need to be in another room. It allows you to check on your baby remotely.
Humidifier: Maintains optimal humidity levels in your baby's room, easing congestion and dry skin.
Sound Machine: A sound machine can help create a soothing environment for your baby by masking noises that might disturb their sleep. Soft, continuous white noise or nature sounds can promote better sleep and relaxation.
Red Light Lamp: Red light lamps emit a warm, gentle glow that is less disruptive to sleep patterns compared to brighter lights. Using a red light during nighttime feedings or diaper changes can help keep the environment calm and conducive to rest.
Waterproof Changing Pad: Convenient for diaper changes on any clean surface.
2-4 swaddles: Swaddling can help soothe your baby and promote better sleep by recreating the feeling of security they experienced in the womb. It also helps prevent the Moro reflex, or startle reflex, which can cause a baby to wake suddenly. If traditional swaddling methods stress you out, consider using velcro or zipper swaddles that are easy and fast to use while ensuring a snug fit.

Feeding

About 8 bottles with preemie-sized nipples: If you plan to breastfeed, consider using preemie-sized nipples instead of newborn nipples for bottle feeding. This is the size that is usually recommended, but always consult your Lactation Specialist as each baby is different and has their own needs.
Bottle-cleaning brush or dishwasher basket: For effective cleaning, use a specialized brush to hand wash bottles or consider using a dishwasher basket to prevent cross-contamination with other dishes.
Bottle-drying rack: Accelerate the drying process and prevent mold or bacteria growth by using a bottle-drying rack to air dry freshly washed bottles. This helps maintain cleanliness and hygiene.
Breastfeeding Support: Work with an IBCLC (Lactation Consultant) for breastfeeding guidance. They can provide personalized support and advice to help you succeed with breastfeeding.
Formula (Optional): Consider having formula on hand for peace of mind. I recommend ordering a recommended formula from trusted resources. Links to these formulas are available on my resource page, which are better than hospital-provided formulas and may take time to arrive once ordered.

Clean Up

2 Hooded Towels: The attached hood helps keep your baby's head dry and warm, regulating their body temperature and preventing chills.
Several Washcloths: Keep a few dry and clean washcloths handy for quick use at bath time.
Infant Tub: While not essential, a baby tub prevents slippage and typically comes with a contoured headrest to keep your child's head above water. Most tubs also include a newborn sling and drain plug.
Baby Body Wash and Shampoo: I recommend avoiding baby body wash and shampoo for the first month or so. Newborns have naturally moisturizing and protective oils on their skin, and these products can strip away these oils, leading to dryness and irritation. When you're ready to use body wash and shampoo, choose organic and gentle options to minimize exposure to harsh chemicals.
Baby Comb and Brush Set: Keep your baby's hair neat and styled with a gentle comb and brush set.
Nail Scissors/Nail Clippers/Glass Nail File Set: Trim your baby's nails regularly to prevent accidental scratching. I personally like glass nail files as they are gentle yet effective for smoothing baby's nails.
Bibs and Burp Cloths: Have plenty of clean bibs and burp cloths on hand to replace dirty ones throughout the day.

Baby Essentials..it continues!

Health

Diapers (Multiple Boxes): Stock up on diapers in various sizes to accommodate your baby's growth. It's recommended to have:
- 1-2 boxes of Newborn size (if applicable)
- 2-3 boxes of Size 1 (or the smallest size)
- Additional boxes of larger sizes as your baby grows
Diaper Rash Ointment: Creates a barrier to moisture, protecting newborn skin from irritation caused by wet diapers. Having diaper rash ointment on hand allows you to address rashes promptly before they become severe and uncomfortable for your baby.
Infant Tylenol: Keep this on hand for low-grade fevers and minor illnesses that may arise.
Nasal Aspirator: A device that safely removes loose or hard mucus from a baby's nose by creating gentle suction. Useful for helping your baby breathe more comfortably during illness when they cannot clear their nose on their own.
Thermometer: Essential for monitoring your baby's temperature during illnesses. A thermometer helps you determine if your baby has a fever, enabling prompt medical attention if needed.
Baby Wipes (2-3 large boxes, unscented): Use unscented baby wipes for everyday messes and diaper changes. Fragrance-free wipes are preferred as they reduce the risk of skin irritation in sensitive babies.
Diaper Pail or Trash Can with Lid: A must-have for controlling odors and conveniently disposing of soiled diapers, helping keep your baby's room fresh and clean.
Pacifiers (Several): Offer different brands to find the one your baby prefers. Pacifiers can help soothe and satisfy your baby's natural sucking reflex between feedings.
Gentle Laundry Detergent: Use gentle, unscented laundry detergent for washing baby clothes and linens. This reduces the risk of skin irritation for both your baby and yourself.

Travel

Convertible Car Seat: A clear must-have! Invest in a convertible car seat that fits a newborn and will grow and adjust with your baby. You'll be traveling with your little one, so a strong, adaptable car seat is essential.
Stroller: Choose a stroller that accommodates a newborn. Some car seats can convert into a stroller with a wheel attachment for added convenience.
Diaper Bag: Pack a diaper bag with essentials including diapers, changing pad, formula, wipes, and a spare outfit. Whether you're taking a walk or running errands, be prepared for your baby's immediate needs.
Baby Carrier: Keep a baby carrier that can accommodate a newborn, such as a baby sling. This allows you to carry your baby on your body for quick errands without needing a stroller. Baby carriers are also helpful for keeping your baby close while you do things around the house.

How Many Diapers ?