Everything You Need for a New Baby Checklist

Finding everything needed for a new baby can be a daunting task for first-time parents. Sign up for prenatal classes, talk to friends who are parents and consult your family doctor for more ideas on what to buy for your newborn. Keep in mind that standards change and products are sometimes recalled for safety reasons. Sign up with the Consumer Product Safety Commission to receive recall information by email.

  1. Car Seat

    • Although state laws vary regarding car seat requirements, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration strongly recommends transporting infants in a rear-facing car seat until they reach either 20 lbs. or 1 year of age. Some car seats can be converted from rear-facing, to forward-facing, to a booster seat. Purchase a new car seat to ensure safe functioning, and check the car seat's expiration date.

    Safe Place to Sleep

    • Place newborns on their back in a safe sleeping location, such as a crib, bassinet or play yard, to reduce the risk of SIDS. Buy a crib with a firm mattress and securely attached rails, and use sleeping-bag style blankets instead of regular blankets to minimize suffocation risks. Buy at least two sets of sheets for your crib.

    Changing Supplies

    • Have a supply of at least 20 cloth or disposable diapers on hand for when your baby is born. Cut down on the frequency of laundry loads by purchasing upwards of 10 washcloths, towels and receiving blankets. Use a diaper bag and commercial baby wipes for travel. Buy a portable change pad that can be used for changing anywhere, and add a change table if you don't mind spending the extra money.

    Indoor Clothing

    • Dress newborns in one light layer more than you are wearing, as overdressing can cause dangerous overheating. Choose at least 10 sleepers and daytime outfits that are comfortable and easy to remove. Snaps down the legs facilitate diaper changing. Beware of itchy tags or interior embroidery that might cause your baby discomfort. "Onesies" or "diaper shirts" are undershirts that snap together at the bottom to keep them in place; use them to add an extra, light layer under sleepers or clothes when needed. Thin, cotton hats help to keep baby warm. Use mittens on your baby's hands to prevent scratching, or give the baby the comfort of feeling his skin as he did in the womb. For brand-name clothing at inexpensive prices, check out your local used clothing stores.

    Outdoor Gear

    • For cold winter walks in the stroller, buy a snowsuit and ventilated stroller weather shield. Buckle your baby into the car seat without a snowsuit for a snug fit and cover the baby with blankets or a ventilated car seat cover when traveling by car. For hot weather, dress your baby in light outfits and keep your baby out of direct sunlight; use a parasol or cover for your stroller and a window shade or receiving blanket for your car. Do not put sunscreen on your newborn.

    Food

    • For breastfeeding, make sure you have comfortable nursing bras, shirts that can easily expose your breasts and a comfortable chair to sit in. Purchase a dual-electric or mini-electric breast pump if you wish to pump your milk for bottle feeding. Choose bottles that are certified free from BPA and phthalates. Bottle sterilizers are touted to simplify bottle cleaning. Give your breastfed baby liquid vitamin-D drops specially formulated for infants. To formula-feed, stock up on lots of the commercial formula recommended by your baby's pediatrician.

    Bath Equipment

    • Purchase an infant bathtub with a lip for the baby's bottom to rest on, or bathe your baby in your clean sink. Obtain a temperature gauge to ensure the water isn't too hot. Buy a combination baby body wash-shampoo and paraben-free moisturizing lotion. Use hooded towels to keep your wet baby warm.

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