A new baby supplies checklist contains all the essentials that you'll need for your baby's arrival. Since family members and friends may help you stock your baby's nursery, it is useful to have a new baby checklist handy so that you can see at a glance what purchases you still need to make.
The Only New Baby Checklist You'll Need
Click the image to download a printable checklist based on the items detailed below. Check out some helpful tips for downloading the checklist.
Feel free to print this list and place it on your fridge or any other conspicuous place. Make a copy to keep in your purse and update it regularly, marking off items that you purchase yourself or receive from others. Revise it as needed.
Browse a Baby Store
To gather inspiration, browse through a local baby store or the baby section of a large department store like Target and check out the latest baby items. You may be surprised at some items you didn't know existed but that could make your life easier as a new parent!
Essential Baby Items
These are the items you can't do without.
- Pacifiers - Purchase two or three different kinds. Your baby will let you know what kind he prefers.
- Bulb syringe - For suctioning out stuffy noses.
- Alcohol - Used to clean around the umbilical cord. Ask your pediatrician what he or she recommends.
- Nail clippers
- Thermometer
- Infant medications
- Receiving blankets - These are great for swaddling baby.
Diapering Needs
You'll be doing a lot of diapers in the near future, so stock up on everything that you might need.
- Disposable diapers - Consider a few different sizes ranging from one preemie pack to 0-3 month sizes.
- Diaper bag - Pick one that allows you to easily carry all the supplies you need with you.
- Wipes - Choose wipes that are meant for a baby's delicate skin.
- Vaseline - Use these on a little boy's circumcision to help provide a barrier against moisture.
- Ointment - Use to prevent diaper rash.
- Diaper "genie" or another trash receptacle - You'll be tossing a lot of smelly garbage including diapers and wipes.
- Changing table with changing pad - Choose something safe for baby that will hold the supplies you need.
Bath Time Essentials
Bath time can be an enjoyable space where parents can further bond with their babies. Make sure you have all the bathing essentials one might need.
- Hooded baby towels - Two or three
- Washcloths - Five or six
- Lotion - Gentle, baby safe lotion
- Baby shampoo and body wash - Gentle, no tears formulas
- Soft brush - Soft bristles for washing
- Infant bathtub - Something safe and non-skid for sink baths
Baby Clothes
Don't get carried away purchasing those adorable, dressy outfits. Purchase the essentials, then buy a few special outfits. Your baby will soon outgrow the newborn sizes, and you'll quickly need to buy larger items. Some parents skip newborn sizes altogether and go straight to purchasing 3 to 6 month sizes.
- Onesies (6-8) - Buy long and/or short-sleeved onesies depending upon the climate and the season.
- Gowns (4-6) - Look for elastic hems. Gowns make constant diapering so much easier!
- Sleepers (4-6) - Terry cloth sleepers will work for almost any season.
- Sleep sacks (2-3) - Babies can't have blankets, so sleep sacks safely perform that function.
- Socks (6-8) - Six to eight pairs should do it.
- Mittens (3-4 pair) - Babies scratch up those pretty faces!
- Sweater/jacket/coat - Depending upon the weather, you may only need one or two.
- Infant laundry soap - Choose a soap that will be gentle on baby's skin.
- Small plastic hangers - Pick tiny hangers for tiny clothes.
- Dressy outfits - Just a few should do.
Feeding Supplies
These may vary depending upon whether your baby is formula-fed or breastfed.
Other Necessities
Other necessities include a variety of baby items, like the following:
- Crib and firm crib mattress
- Fitted crib sheets (2-3)
- Baby monitor
- Bassinet, Moses basket, or portable play yard
- Car seat
- Car seat base
- Stroller
Items for Older Babies
And, of course, as your baby gets older, you will probably want to add more items including:
- High chair
- Baby swing, bouncers, or baby walkers
- Portable booster seat
- Shopping cart seat cover
- Developmentally appropriate toys and books
- Play mats
- Baby appropriate plates, cups, and utensils
Just for Mom
- Nursing nightgowns
- Comfortable undergarments
- Belly wrap (if undergoing a c-section)
- Body pillow
- Sanitation pads
- Perineal bottle
- Lactation tea
Join a Baby Registry
Many of these stores have computer registries that you can access in the store, or you can go to the store's site online and generate your very own customized wish list that can also serve as a checklist. Not only will this help friends and relatives as they search for gifts for you and your newborn, but it will also let you narrow down the must-haves on your list as you prepare for the arrival of your infant.
