A Newborn Essentials List for All First-Time Parents: The Must Haves

Did you know there were about 116 million babies born in 2020? In the U.S., there were a little over 3 million births last year. 

Are you one of the millions of expecting parents? If you are, you want to be as prepared as you can be for your baby's arrival. 

This guide will discuss some of the newborn essentials you should have on your list. Keep reading to learn what they are. 

Furniture for the Nursery 

Your nursery should be set up months before your baby arrives. They'll need a space in your home where you can feed them, change them, and lay them down to sleep. 

A crib and crib mattress should be first on your list. You'll also need a changing table for those dirty diaper changing sessions. 

A rocking chair is vital to help you get your baby to sleep. You should also have a dresser and hamper for their clothes. A baby monitor will help you keep an eye on your baby while they sleep. 

You'll Need Some Wardrobe Essentials 

The next thing on your newborn baby essentials list should be new clothes. Newborn baby clothes should be cute, but they should also be comfortable. 

Your baby will need to feel comfortable so they can play and sleep at night. Clothes made with high-quality material are vital. 

Your baby will outgrow their clothing quickly, but you should start with a few pairs of newborn-sized onesies, shirts, pants, sweaters, socks, and hats. 

Make sure you also have a separate laundry detergent for your baby's clothes. Their sensitive skin can get irritated with other kinds of detergents. 

Don't Forget About the Linens 

You'll need a few different sets of lines for your baby's crib. You might have to change their bedding more often than you'd think.

Fitted crib sheets, a few thin blankets, and a waterproof mattress protector are a must. You can add a quilted blanket to the side of the crib for decorative purposes. 

Your newborn's crib should not have any pillows or bumper pads. These items pose a risk to your baby's life. 

Diapers Are a Must 

Your newborn essentials list wouldn't be complete without diapering supplies. Changing a diaper is a skill you have to master before the baby arrives. Buy some newborn-sized diapers in advance so you can practice. 

These are also items you'll need to continue purchasing as your baby grows. Start with a few boxes of diapers, baby wipes, diaper cream to prevent rashes, and a diaper bag for when you need to leave your home. 

Babyproofing Supplies

Babyproofing is a vital part of preparing for a baby. You'll need to complete these tasks before the baby arrives to ensure they're not in any danger at home. 

Purchase baby gates if you have stairs in your home. You'll need to place these at the top and bottom of the stairs.

You'll also need babyproof latches for all cabinets and drawers in your house. Even if you think your baby can't reach a specific cabinet, it's best to be safe.

Outlet covers will protect your baby's curious fingers, and furniture anchors will keep furniture safe in place. 

Bath Time Essentials

Other essential newborn items you should have include bath time supplies. Bathing your new baby in a large bathtub can prove difficult, you'll do best starting with a baby bathtub in the sink. 

You'll also need baby body wash and shampoo. These soaps are specifically created to keep your baby's eyes from burning. 

A few baby towels, washcloths, and some lotion to keep their skin soft is also essential. 

What You'll Need for Feeding 

You'll need a few different items depending on whether you choose to breastfeed or give your baby formula.

For formula feeding, you'll need a collection of baby bottles, a baby bottle cleaning brush, a few months worth of formula, and some bibs. When breastfeeding your baby, you'll need some nursing bras, burp cloths, a breast pump, storage bags for your breast milk, and some nipple cream. 

Travel Gear You Should Have 

You'll have to venture out into the world with your baby eventually, so you'll need to have some travel gear on your newborn baby essentials list. A reliable car seat, stroller, and baby carrier are important items to have. 

You should also pack some extra diapers, wipes, and outfits in your diaper bag when you leave the house. 

You Can't Forget About the Toys

While toys aren't considered essential by everyone, they're crucial to your child's emotional and intellectual development. Some rattles, squeaky toys, and blocks are great first toys.

You should also consider a play mat to encourage crawling as your child grows. Buy a few toys you can attach to your baby's stroller so they can play as you walk with them. 

Baby Health Supplies 

Another important thing on your newborn essentials checklist should be baby health supplies. Have a newborn first aid kit including a thermometer and Tylenol made for infants.

You should also have electrolyte drinks in case your baby suffers dehydration. You'll need some teething ointment and some anti-gas medication as well.  

Newborn Essentials You Need Before the Baby Arrives

There are many newborn essentials you'll need to purchase before your baby arrives. Baby clothes will keep your baby warm and protected. They'll need different kinds of furniture in their nursery and gear for feeding time too. 

Check out some of the other baby and parenting blogs on our site if you need more helpful tips before you bring your new bundle of joy home.