Having a baby comes with a long list of to-dos. In addition to the celebration, doctor’s appointments, rest, and nesting, you also have to figure out exactly what you need. Shopping for baby gear can be exciting, but also overwhelming. Don’t sweat it, though! We are here with a complete list of the newborn essentials you might need.
A Complete List of Newborn Essentials
There is so much baby gear out there, but how much is truly necessary? Looking for just the newborn essentials you REALLY need? If you want to save money and take a minimalist approach to baby accessories, this list is for you.
Crib or Bassinet – The AAP recommends that babies be laid flat on their back on a firm surface, clear of any blankets or pillows for naps and bedtime.
Diapers and Wipes – Whether you choose disposable or cloth diapers, the average baby goes through about 8-12 diapers each day.
Clothing– Sleepers and onesies are great basics to have ready for your newborn.
Sheets or Mattress Protector – Sheets should be tight-fitting and will help keep the mattress clean and dry.
Swaddling Blankets – Swaddling blankets can be great for wrapping up a baby, to use as a quick nursing cover (if you choose), and to lay down on the floor as a protective surface when you are away from home.
Approved Infant Safety Carseat – Infants should always be buckled into an appropriate car seat for their age, and always ride in the back seat.
Feeding System – Newborns will eat about 8-12 times a day! The Kiinde Twist system makes it easy, allowing direct pumping, storage, and feeding all from the same pouch. You can easily mix formula in the pouches too.
Those may be the essentials, but there is a lot of exciting gear and technology that can be helpful
Infant Feeding Essentials
What Do I Need for Breastfeeding?
Breastfeeding Pillow – Pillows are great for any type of feeding. Having a place to rest your arms is always nice.
Breast Pump – A breast pump can be an important tool, and allows others to help with feeding your baby. Many parents look for something portable and lightweight.
Breastmilk Storage Bags – Breastmilk can be stored in the fridge for 4 days, in the freezer for 6 months, and in the deep freeze for up to 12 months. Kiinde Twist Pouches are great for breastmilk storage.
Breast Pads – (washable or disposable) – Leaking can be a frustration for many breastfeeding parents. Comfortable breast pads will help keep your shirts and sheets nice and dry!
Burp Cloths – Infants can be messy! Baby burp cloths are great for catching any spit up or for wiping the baby down after a feeding. Check out this 2-in-1 Burp Cloth and Bib.
Nipple Cream – That tender skin may need a little extra love. A hydrating cream can give you some relief.
Bottles with Slow Flow Nipples – A slow flow nipple will help to mimic the breast’s flow and prevent confusion when going between breast and bottle feeding. (Be sure to use the pace feeding technique as well!)
Bottle Warmer – The CDC and the USDA recommend that the only safe way to thaw and warm breast milk is to use warm, flowing water. The Kiinde Kozii Warmer does just that and is easy to use with a built-in timer.
What Do You Need If You Are Formula Feeding?
Bottles – Having various sizes of bottles and nipples may be helpful. Twist pouches come in both 6 and 8 oz sizes.
Formula – Work with your pediatrician to decide what formula is best for your baby. If combination feeding, remember that Formula has different storage and preparation guidelines than breastmilk.
Burp Cloths – Great to have on hand for all types of messes!
Bottle and Nipple Brushes – It is important to get bottles and any other feeding accessories squeaky clean!
Newborn Essentials For Diapering
Diapers – The average newborn uses at least 8-12 diapers each day! There are disposable and cloth options.
-If using disposable diapers, having a few boxes of each size may be helpful
– If using cloth diapers, try 4-5 styles and then invest in the ones you like best.
Wipes – Wipes are a must for diaper changes and great for cleaning up on the go!
Diaper Cream – Baby’s skin is fresh and new, diaper cream or balm will help protect from irritation or rashes.
Diaper Pail or Trash Can – You can use a specific diaper pail or just have a dedicated trash can with a tight-fitting lid, whatever fits your space best!
Hand Sanitizer – Clean hands are important when dealing with diaper changes.
Baby Essentials For Home
Crib or Bassinet – The AAP recommends placing the baby on his or her back on a firm sleep surface such as a crib or bassinet with a tight-fitting sheet, free of blankets, in the same room as the parents. Room sharing has been shown to reduce the risk of SIDs up to 50%.
Swing or Bouncer – These can be great tools to help soothe your baby and give your arms a break. A reminder that babies should never be left unattended in swings or bouncers!
Playmat – Playmats are great for tummy time and learning.
Baby Monitor – Give yourself peace of mind without the risk of waking the baby. There are many options, from basic to video and wifi monitors.
Rocker or Glider – A comfortable chair is nice for late-night feedings and snuggle sessions.
White Noise Machine – Babies are used to constant noise after being in the womb. A white noise machine may help soothe them.
Books – It is never too early to start reading to your little ones! Even infants like to look at the colors and shapes in the pictures and hear the sound of your voice.
Humidifier – A cool mist humidifier is a great addition to any nursery space, especially in dry climates.
Clothes for Newborn Babies
Onesies – 4 to 6 basic onesies are a good place to start when preparing for a newborn.
Pants – Depending on the time of year your baby is born, you may want to have long pants, shorts, or a combination of both!
Socks or Booties – You’ll soon see which stays on your baby’s feet the best.
Sleepers or Gowns – Many parents prefer to use one-piece outfits like these in the early days. They are easy to put on and make for simpler diaper changes.
Free and Clear Laundry Soap – Using a detergent that is free of dyes and additives can help protect the baby’s skin and prevent any reactions.
Newborn Essentials For Travel
Stroller – A stroller can be really helpful for exercise or travel.
Baby Carrier – Babywearing is a great way to bond and leaves the caregiver’s hands-free.
Cooler bag (for storing breastmilk or formula)– It’s helpful to have a dedicated place for your bottles or storage bags.
Wet Bag – Keeps messes contained in a waterproof tote.
Diaper Bag – Carries all the essentials you need for a day away from home.
What Does Baby Need For Grooming and First Aid?
Nail Clippers or Scissors – Infants are known for fast-growing (and sharp!) fingernails. Keeping them trimmed will prevent little scratches for you and the baby.
Baby Bathtub – A contained space to bathe a baby is a big help to many caregivers.
Bulb Syringe or Nasal Aspirator – These are great if your baby is congested and can help make dealing with colds a little bit easier.
Soft-Bristled Comb – a comb will not only help keep baby’s hair tame but can be used in treating cradle cap.
Unscented Lotion – Hydrating your little ones’ sensitive skin is an important part of their care. The unscented lotion is often recommended to avoid any irritation
Infant Formula Medicine – Your pediatrician can provide you with a list of safe medications and dosages.
Thermometer – Being able to keep track of babies’ temperature accurately at home is important.
Other Baby Accessories That Are Nice to Have
Changing Table – Some caregivers like to have a dedicated space for diaper storage and a specific place to change their baby.
Sleep Sacks – The AAP recommends no blankets on infants under 1, so a sleep sack is a safe way to keep your baby warm.
Pacifier – Pacifiers can be a great soothing tool for some babies.
Night Light – A soft light is helpful for middle-of-the-night changes and so caregivers can see in the infant’s room without turning on overhead lights.
Rattles, Teethers, and Other Baby Toys –Toys can be stimulating and encourage developmental milestones and learning.
Travel Warmer – On the go often? A travel warmer can be really helpful for feeding while out and about. Our Kozii Travel Warmer keeps water warm all day!
Changing Pads – Convenient to have when you are away from home and need a clean place to change your baby.
Travel Crib or Playpen – A safe environment for a baby to sleep when you are away from home or if you have limited space.
Formula and Snack Travel Containers – Easy feeding on the go!
Steam Sterilizer (microwave or countertop) – These products can make cleaning your bottles, pump parts, and other baby gear easier.
Did your newborn essentials make our list? Tell us what your must-have newborn items and baby gear are in the comments, or come join the conversation on Instagram and Facebook.
Aryn
Aryn is a Certified Lactation Counselor on the Kiinde Lactation team. She is also a mother of two, writer, and maternal mental health advocate.
