Newborn Essentials Checklist: What You Actually Need for Baby
A practical, no-waste checklist of what to have ready for your baby's first weeks, and what you can skip.
Before you use this guide: This is general educational information, not an individual medical assessment. We do not identify a clinician reviewer on this page, so please confirm personal health decisions with your doctor, midwife or paediatrician.
Baby shops can make it feel as though you need hundreds of things. In reality, newborns need very little: somewhere safe to sleep, milk, clean nappies, warm clothes and a safe way to travel. Here is a simple checklist.
Sleep
- A cot, crib or bassinet that meets your country's safety standards, with a firm, flat, new mattress
- Two or three fitted sheets that match the mattress
- Baby sleeping bags or light blankets
- Nothing else: no pillows, bumpers or soft toys in the sleep space
Clothing
- About 6 to 8 bodysuits and 5 to 6 sleepsuits, in newborn and 0 to 3 month sizes (babies grow quickly, so do not buy too many of the smallest size)
- A few pairs of socks and a hat or two
- A cardigan or jumper and a warm outer layer in cold weather
- Scratch mittens, if your baby's nails are sharp
Nappies and changing
- A good supply of nappies, whether disposable or reusable
- Cotton wool and water, or fragrance-free wipes
- Barrier cream
- A changing mat and a nappy bin or bag
Feeding
- If breastfeeding: nursing bras, breast pads and a feeding pillow if you like one. A breast pump is optional.
- If formula feeding: 6 to 8 bottles, teats, a bottle brush, a steriliser or sterilising method, and infant formula that your doctor or health visitor recommends
- Muslin cloths for spills, and bibs
Bathing and health
- A baby bath or a clean sink, soft towels, mild soap or just water
- Baby nail scissors or a file
- A digital thermometer
- A first-aid kit and the phone number of your doctor
Travel
- An approved, rear-facing car seat, fitted correctly before you leave the hospital
- A pram, stroller or baby carrier. Choose one that supports your baby's back and neck, and keep their face visible and uncovered.
For you
- Maternity pads and comfortable, loose clothing
- Easy-to-eat snacks and meals in the freezer
- Nipple cream, if you are breastfeeding
What you can skip, at least at first
Baby shoes, wipe warmers, a big toy collection, special baby laundry detergent and lots of newborn-sized clothes. Second-hand items can save money. Buy a new mattress, and never use a second-hand car seat unless you know its full history, because it may be damaged or out of date.
Trusted resources to read next
These public health resources provide additional information. Guidance can vary by country, so prioritise advice from your own care team and local health service.
- CDC: Helping babies sleep safely — Safe sleep environment recommendations for babies.
- NHS: Early days — Newborn checks, feeding, and support during the first days.
This content is for general information only and is not medical advice. Every pregnancy and every baby is different. Always talk to your doctor, midwife or paediatrician about your own situation, and seek urgent care if you are worried.