Newborn checklist

Newborn checklist

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What you'll need to have on hand for the early days with your newborn

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Clothing

8 undershirts or onesies (mix of short-sleeve and long-sleeve)

5 nightgowns (for use until the cord falls off)

8 one-piece stretchy sleepers (go for ones with zippers; new moms swear by them!)

5 pairs of pants

2 newborn hats

8 pairs of socks or booties, to wear with nightgowns and outfits

2 pairs of scratch mittens, to keep baby from scratching his face

2 cardigans or jackets, more in winter

Bunting bag or snowsuit for winter baby

Laundry detergent for infants

4 outfits for dressing up (optional)

Blankets

3 large cotton blankets

8 receiving blankets (they also make handy burp cloths)

Feeding
If you're breastfeeding, you don't really need any equipment.

Some nursing mothers like to have these items:

Lots of bibs

Burp cloths

Breast pump

Milk storage containers

Nursing pillow

Nursing bras (if buying before baby is born, buy one cup size larger than your pregnant bra size)

Breast pads (disposable or washable)

Lotion for sore nipples

If you are formula feeding:

Lots of bibs

Burp cloths

8 four-ounce bottles with nipples

6 eight-ounce bottles with nipples

Bottle and nipple brush

Formula (be sure to check expiry date and note the lot number in case of recalls)

Thermal bottle carrier

Diapering
If you are using re-usable cloth diapers:

Several dozen (4 or 5) cloth or re-usable diapers

8 waterproof covers

1 diaper pail

Changing pad

Baby ointment or other barrier cream to prevent rash

Snaps, Velcro or safety pins to secure re-usable diapers

Disposable wipes or a couple dozen washcloths for cleaning baby's bottom


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)

1 diaper pail

Changing pad

Baby ointment or barrier cream to prevent rash

Disposable wipes or a couple dozen washcloths for cleaning baby's bottom


Bathtime

1 plastic infant tub (or use a large dishpan in the sink, or take baby in the bath with you)

12 washcloths, not used on baby's bottom

Baby soap or cleanser

Baby soft-bristled hair brush

3 soft-hooded towels

Bedtime
If you are using a crib:

Approved crib and crib mattress

3 waterproof mattress covers

4 fitted cribsheets

4 light blankets that fit in the crib

Sleep sack

If you are co-sleeping:

Firm mattress (not a waterbed)

3 waterproof pads to place under baby

Light comforter (keep away from baby's head)

Sleep sack

Other necessities

Approved infant safety seat for car

Stroller that reclines so newborn can lie flat

Nail clippers or scissors (or just bite off baby's nails as needed)

Bulb syringe for suctioning mucous

Baby thermometer

Eye dropper or medicine spoon

Medication in case of fever

Nice-to-have items

Change table (or just use change pad on top of dresser or bed)

Rocking chair for feeding and swaddling

Playpen

Sling or baby carrier

Diaper bag

1 or 2 change pads

Plastic hangers for closet

Sun shade for car windows

2 or 4 pacifiers (if you choose to use these)

Rattles and other baby toys

Mobiles

Night light