Ultimate Checklist: Must-Haves for Your Newborn

The birth of a child is always an exciting moment in the life of every family. Therefore, it is essential to prepare for the baby’s birth and ensure you have everything you need for the baby’s first days.

Let's reveal a secret - the essentials for a baby in the first days of life include diapers, a place to sleep, and more diapers. However, we are not living in the Stone Age. Therefore, we offer a list of necessary items for a baby that will facilitate your parenting journey.

This article will give recommendations on choosing the right items and what to look for when purchasing.

Use this shopping list as a template. You can remove unnecessary items from the list and create your list of necessary items for your newborn in the first month, saving time and money.

Baby Clothes

1. Children's clothing sizes are sorted by age, but you shouldn't buy everything for a newborn right away. Babies grow quickly, so it's wise to have a size or two larger in stock.
2. Choose soft, comfortable, high-quality clothing. Baby clothes must withstand frequent washing. Avoid clothes with hanging ties, tassels, and ribbons as they can be hazardous.

Choose organic baby clothes without harsh dyes and potentially harmful chemicals. Use a mild, child-friendly laundry detergent to prevent skin irritation.

1. Sleepers (2-3 pieces). Choose sleepers that are suitable for both sleep and play. Look for ones with a zipper at the front and along the leg for easy diaper changes.
2. Sliders (2-3 pieces). It’s best to buy rompers with an elastic waistband. These sliders fit easily over the diaper and stretch as the baby gains weight.
3. Undershirts (3-4 pieces). Choose undershirts made of soft fabrics that are easy to open.
4. Bodysuits (3-4 pieces). Buy different styles: long and short sleeves.
5. Outerwear (3-4 pieces). Depending on the season, you will need outerwear such as fleece jackets, sweatshirts, or winter overalls. Buy larger items to keep your baby comfortable.
6. Caps (2 pieces). For summer, you need a lightweight bonnet. For colder seasons, choose warm articles that cover the ears.
7. Socks or booties (5-7 pieces). Choose inexpensive newborn socks as the baby's feet grow quickly. You will probably need to buy new pairs frequently.

Hygiene

1. Diapers. You will likely need 10 to 12 diapers a day in the first month of life. We recommend buying several different types at once to find the best fit for your child’s skin.
2. Diaper rash wipes and cream. Unscented wipes are less likely to irritate your baby's skin. Also, have a good diaper rash cream on hand.
3. Scissors or nail clippers. Trim the baby's nails to prevent scratching. Use special models from children's stores.
4. Powder or gel for washing baby clothes. Use products designed for baby clothes to avoid allergic reactions and irritations.
5. First aid kit. The minimum set should always include hydrogen peroxide, brilliant green for treating the navel, iodine, cotton pads, cotton swabs, sterile cotton wool, and a children's thermometer.
6. Bath foam. Buy products designed for newborns without surfactants and chemical additives. These consumables run out quickly, so choose products appropriate for your baby’s age.
7. Bath towel (2 pieces). Your baby will need their towel for bathing. It is better to choose a large size so that it is comfortable to wrap the baby. Buy 2 towels so you have a spare while one is being washed.
8. Soft sponge. For gentle cleaning.

Furniture, Transport, and Household Items

1. Baby cot and mattress. A transforming playpen is best, as it will serve you for several years. You can place it next to your bed to make night-time feeding and diaper changes easier.
2. Bed linen. It should be made of natural hypoallergenic material that is highly breathable, absorbs moisture, and retains heat. Choose sets without buttons and other elements that the child could swallow. Also, look for seams that are almost invisible and internal to avoid irritating the baby's skin.
3. Stock up on lots of sheets that will fit snugly against your mattress. Avoid foreign objects in the crib, such as bedspreads, blankets, and toys, as these can pose a suffocation risk.
4. Stroller. A stroller is essential for a newborn. There are many types available: walking, modular, transformers, cradle stroller, and more. Choose a universal model suitable for all seasons and occasions. Consult with experts, read online reviews, and seek help from consultants if needed.
5. Baby changing table. In the first month, you will need to change diapers frequently. A changing table will make this task easier. Some parents use a special changing pillow on a dresser instead.
6. Baby bath. Until the navel heals, you will only need to wipe the baby with a damp sponge. After that, a baby bathtub is necessary. Ensure it is suitable for newborns, preferably with a special insert for safe bathing.
7. Bath thermometer. The water temperature should be 37°C for a comfortable bath. An electronic thermometer is recommended for accurate readings.

Food

Bottle. Some pediatricians advise against using a bottle in the first month, but if you need one, choose a 100-200 ml bottle.

Breast pump. Available in manual, electric, and autonomous models, you can find a good breast pump for any budget. A breast pump helps you express excess milk, which you can store in the refrigerator and use as needed.

Bottle brush and dishwashing gel. Use hypoallergenic products specifically designed for baby dishes.

Bottle warmer and sterilizer. These devices are useful if you express milk or formula feed. Often, the sterilizer and heater are combined into one unit.

Nice-to-Have Things for a Newborn

1. Sling. Inspired by African textiles, a sling allows your baby to snuggle up to you while you have two free hands.
2. Stroller raincoat. This transparent plastic cover protects the baby from wind and rain.
3. Car seat and sun curtain. If you drive and plan to take your baby on trips, these accessories are essential from the first days.
4. Baby monitor. An optional but useful gadget for monitoring your baby from another room or even away from home. Choose between basic audio models and more expensive video monitors.
5. Festive clothing. You may need one or two outfits for special events like New Year’s, Halloween, or photoshoots. Since it's hard to predict your baby's size in advance, consider shopping for holiday clothes closer to the event.
6. Footwear. Tiny shoes are adorable but unnecessary during the first year. Experts recommend waiting until your baby learns to walk before buying real shoes.
7. Hair accessories. Completely optional but charming. Even if your baby has little hair, a cute headband or bow can add a touch of style. Ensure the accessory is not too tight or scratchy.
8. Mobile. Not essential, but a great option for adding toys from the first days. A mobile usually hangs above the crib, out of the baby's reach, ensuring safety. Choose a multi-colored mobile with different animal harnesses.
9. Rattles. Suitable for all ages, rattles remain a popular toy for newborns. Babies up to two months will watch the toy in your hands, attracted by the noise and bright appearance. This helps develop vision, sound perception, and attention. The main requirement for a rattle is safety.
10. Electronic balance. Useful for monitoring your baby’s health and development, especially for premature babies or those with different physiological characteristics. Smart versions can measure body parameters and monitor data via an app.
11. Rocking chair or rocking center. These devices can make life easier for parents in the first month. There are many options with hanging toys, music, and vibration. Choose one that suits your baby’s weight and size.
12. Night light. Provides enough light for night-time feedings and can help your child feel more secure as they grow older.
13. White noise generator or music player. White noise or soothing music can have a calming effect on your baby's nervous system, helping them fall asleep faster.
14. Air humidifier/purifier. A humidifier is essential during the heating season when the air is too dry. Pediatricians recommend using humidifiers in the nursery to keep the air comfortable and prevent colds and allergies.

Preparing for the birth of a child is always an inspiring moment. With our newborn baby clothes list, you can relax a bit and be sure to buy everything you need.

Use the Costless app to create a baby shower list and find the best prices. We wish you and your child good health!