Newborn Essentials Checklist: The Must-Haves and More

Getting ready for a new baby can feel like a lot, but focusing on just the newborn essentials can help you feel more prepared and confident. We’ve sifted through top resources and expert recommendations to bring you a clear, practical guide to what you really need in those first few weeks. 

At a glance, here are a few newborn must-haves every new parent should have on hand:

• Feeding: Bottles, formula or breast pump, burp cloths

• Sleeping: Crib or bassinet, swaddles

• Diapering: Diapers, wipes, changing pad

• Clothing: Onesies, mittens, footed sleepers

• Bathing: Baby tub, gentle soap, soft towels

• Health & Safety: Thermometer, nail clippers, nasal aspirator

• On-the-Go: Car seat, stroller, diaper bag.

These basics cover the most important needs—feeding, sleeping, diapering, safety, and comfort—without overwhelming you with extras.

Below, we’ll walk through each category in more detail so you can build your own tailored list. And don’t forget to download our free newborn essentials checklist to keep everything organized as you get ready to welcome your baby.

How to Choose the Right Newborn Essentials

With so many baby products available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when asking, “What do I need for a baby?” The good news is, your newborn essentials checklist doesn’t have to be long or complicated. The key is to focus on must-haves for newborns—items that support your baby’s basic needs and make everyday care easier for you.

When building your baby checklist, ask yourself:

• Is it safe and age-appropriate? Look for items designed specifically for newborns and that meet the most recent safety standards.

• Will I use it in the first few months? Skip the extras and stick to must-have infant items that are practical from day one.

• Does it fit my lifestyle? Consider your space, routine, and preferences—whether you're bottle-feeding, breastfeeding, and the type of diapers you’ll be using, etc.

Whether you're making a registry or preparing your home, this list of essentials for a newborn will help you focus on what really matters.

Printable Newborn Essentials Checklist

To make your planning even easier, download our simplified version of the newborn essentials checklist for easy access while shopping and organizing.

DOWNLOAD THE NEWBORN CHECKLIST

Newborn Diapering Essentials

Get ready for lots of diaper changes—they're all part of the adventure of being a parent! While it might not be the most exciting job, having the right newborn essentials on hand can make diapering a breeze.

Here are the must-have newborn items for your diapering setup:

• Changing table. Having a safe, dedicated surface for changing diapers is essential. Opt for a changing table that includes shelves or drawers to store supplies like diapers and wipes. If you have extra space, consider buying and storing your baby's diapers and wipes in bulk to stay well-prepared. Keep these items easily accessible but out of your baby's reach. While many changing tables come with safety straps, always keep a hand on your baby during changes to ensure their safety.

• Changing pad. Having a changing pad helps keep your baby comfortable and the changing table clean. Some pads can be wiped clean, while others have removable covers that can be machine-washed. If you’re looking for convenience, this is certainly an essential baby item!

• Diapers. One of the most common questions from new parents is, “How many diapers will I need for a newborn?” On average, newborns go through about 10 diapers a day, that’s around 70 diapers a week. It’s impossible to know ahead of time what size diaper your newborn will need, so it’s worth buying small packs of a few different sizes. Choose between Swaddlers, Baby-Dry, and Pure. Then, once your baby is born, you can stock up on more of the right size. Read about how to select the right diaper size. 

• Wipes. Gently clean your newborn’s diaper area with wipes. Select from Free & Gentle, Aqua Pure, and Pampers Sensitive. Check out our best diapers and wipes in our dedicated guide.

• Washcloths. Wet a washcloth with warm water and use it to wipe your baby’s diaper area. Washcloths also come in handy for cleaning your baby at bath time.

• Diaper rash cream. It’s not uncommon for babies to get diaper rash from time to time. Ask your baby’s healthcare provider for advice on which cream or ointment is best for treatment. 

• Diaper pail. Although optional, diaper pails made it onto our newborn checklist because they help contain smells from dirty diapers. There are many diaper pails on the market, but a key choice is whether you want one that works with regular trash can liners or one with a special liner ring that the manufacturer sells separately. The special liners are better at trapping odors but will cost more overall.

• Diaper caddy. Keeping all your diapering supplies organized and within reach is essential. A diaper caddy basket is perfect for holding infant diapers, wipes, creams, and even small toys to distract your baby during changes, plus it can be moved from room to room for added convenience.

By equipping yourself with these diapering newborn baby essentials, you’ll be prepared for those frequent diaper changes with ease and confidence.

Newborn Nursery Essentials

If you've been enjoying the process of preparing for your baby but are unsure if you have all the necessary items for the nursery, this checklist will help you get ready for your little one's arrival. Whether you have a dedicated nursery room or a cozy corner in your bedroom, here’s our handy nursery checklist for a newborn:

• Crib. A crib is one of the top newborn essentials, providing your little one with a safe place to sleep. Since your little one will spend a lot of time sleeping in the early days (up to 16 hours or more), a durable crib is a worthwhile investment. Consider a model that grows with your baby, like one that converts into a toddler bed or daybed. Ensure that your crib or bassinet meets the latest safety standards.

• Bassinet. In those first months, you might prefer to use a bassinet rather than a crib. A bassinet offers portability and convenience. However, you’ll need a crib once your newborn grows out of their bassinet (generally around 3 to 6 months). 

• Crib mattress. One of the most important nursery necessities is a firm mattress that fits the crib you’ve bought perfectly. This is the safest surface for sleep.

• Bedding. You won’t need much bedding—just a waterproof mattress cover and several fitted sheets that fit your crib mattress perfectly. Keeping your baby’s crib bare (free of any other type of bedding, including blankets, top sheets, pillows, and bumper pads, as well as toys) helps reduce the risk of suffocation and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Learn more about safe sleep for babies in our practical guide.

• Night-light. A low-light option can be a game-changer for late-night feedings, diaper changes, and soothing your baby without waking them fully.

• Clothes storage. Whether you use a dresser, wardrobe, or tubs with dividers, you’ll need a place to keep newborn clothing essentials like onesies, socks, and sleepwear organized.

• Nursery glider or rocking chair. A comfy chair can make feeding, cuddling, and bedtime stories more enjoyable for you and your baby in your newborn nursery. The gentle rocking motion may even help calm a fussy newborn.

• Toy storage. While not essential, a small basket, box, or shelf helps organize any early toys or keepsakes.

• Mobile. A colorful mobile hung securely out of your baby’s reach can offer visual stimulation in your newborn nursery. Choose one with high-contrast images for newborns, like bold patterns or primary colors, to catch their attention.

With these essentials, your nursery will be ready for your little one’s arrival, helping you feel organized and confident as you navigate this exciting time.

Newborn Clothing Essentials

Choosing baby clothes for a newborn is one of the more fun parts of getting ready, but it’s easy to go overboard. When asking yourself, “How many newborn clothes do I need?” the answer depends on how often you plan to do laundry, but a few key basics go a long way.

The most important thing is comfort and practicality. Newborn clothing essentials should be soft, easy to put on, and suitable for layering. Babies typically need one more layer than adults to stay warm, especially in those first few weeks. Be sure to include a mix of sizes in your newborn clothes checklist, as babies grow quickly and may size out of true “newborn” clothing within weeks.

Here’s your go-to newborn essentials checklist for clothing, including newborn sleep clothes and everyday basics:

• Swaddle blanket. If you choose to swaddle your baby, use a thin blanket to wrap snugly around their body during the early weeks. Swaddling can help soothe your baby and make them feel safe and secure. Learn more about swaddling in our dedicated guide.

• Pajamas, sleepers, or sleeping sacks. Your baby will spend much of their time snoozing, so sleepwear is certainly part of the newborn essentials. Whatever type of sleepwear you choose, you'll probably want a style that covers your baby's feet—some pajamas do, as do sleepers and sleeping sacks. Some sleeping sacks also allow babies to wear pajamas underneath, but remember to check that your baby isn’t overheating with too many layers.

• Undershirts and one-piece outfits. These are newborn clothing essentials. Choose styles with snap closures for easy diaper changes and consider long or short sleeves based on the weather.

• T-shirts and stretchy pants. Combine T-shirts with leggings or stretchy pants for easy, everyday outfits. These pieces are versatile and make diaper changes a breeze.

• Sweater or jacket. A lightweight cardigan or jacket is a practical way to keep your baby warm. For colder climates, opt for thicker layers from your newborn clothing essentials list.

• Socks or booties. You’ll need lots of socks and maybe some booties, too. Your newborn doesn’t need real shoes yet—these won't be necessary until they start walking outside.

• Hat with brim. This will help protect your little one from the sun.

• Knitted hat or cap. If it’s cold when your baby is born, have one of these on hand to ensure their head is kept nice and warm.

• Bunting bag or snowsuit. For winter babies, a stroller bunting bag or snowsuit with attached mittens will keep your little one warm during outings.

• Mittens. Cute little mittens are great for the cooler months.

• Special outfit. This is an optional item, but we wanted to keep it on our newborn checklist in case you need something for a holiday or special occasion. Just keep in mind that your little one will soon outgrow what they’re wearing, so take lots of pictures while you can! 

While you’re considering what baby gear you’ll need, you might also be thinking about the other aspects of becoming a new parent. Check out our free New Parents Guide below for all the key things you need to know on your pregnancy and parenting journey:

Newborn Bath Time Essentials

Your baby’s first baths are a special bonding experience, and having the right bath items can make it safe and enjoyable. While newborns only need gentle sponge baths during their first weeks, this checklist includes all the essentials to keep your little one clean and comfortable and from birth onwards:

• Baby bath seat or tub. Your newborn will have sponge baths at first until the umbilical cord stump has fallen off, but eventually, you'll need some sort of seat or tub for bathing. Just make sure it works for newborns or that it comes with a newborn insert to suit your baby’s small size.

• Newborn bath mat. For sponge baths or when transitioning to tub baths, a newborn bath mat provides a safe, slip-resistant surface to help support your baby during bath time.

• Shampoo and soap. Choose gentle, tear-free products specifically formulated for babies to cleanse their delicate skin and hair. Mild formulas are essential to avoid irritation.

• Cup. A plastic scoop or cup helps you gently pour water over your baby’s hair or skin to rinse out the soap or shampoo. Just be extra careful not to get soapy water in your little one’s eyes!

• Towels. Soft, hooded towels are great for drying your baby quickly and keeping them warm post-bath. Investing in the best infant towels ensures a cozy and skin-friendly option for your little one.

• Washcloths. These can help with gently wiping your baby from top to toe.

• Baby moisturizer. A newborn doesn't usually need special lotions, but if your little one has dry patches of skin, you can apply a non-perfumed baby moisturizer.

Newborn Feeding Essentials

Feeding your baby is a special part of parenting, and having the right tools can make the process smoother and more comfortable for both of you. Whether you’re breastfeeding, formula feeding, or doing a combination of both, this newborn essentials checklist covers the key feeding essentials you'll want to have on hand.

Here are the must-have newborn items for feeding time:

• Burp cloths. These are baby must-haves for catching spit-up and protecting your clothes during burping sessions. Bulk washcloths can be a practical and affordable alternative for cleaning up messes.

• Nursing cover. A nursing cover offers a bit of privacy while breastfeeding, with a strap to help keep it in place. A receiving blanket can work in a pinch, but may slip more easily.

• Receiving blankets. These versatile infant items can serve as nursing covers, burp cloths, or lightweight swaddles, making them a valuable part of your newborn checklist.

• Nursing pillow. This U-shaped pillow supports your baby during feedings and can help ease strain on your arms, shoulders, and back—an essential part of your breastfeeding essentials list.

• Bibs. Bibs help keep your baby’s clothes clean from milk, formula, and drool, and they’re a staple on any baby checklist.

• Bottles and nipples. No matter how you feed your baby, bottle-feeding essentials are key. Bottles come in glass or BPA-free plastic, with some offering disposable liners. Choosing the right nipple flow and shape may take some trial and error to find what your newborn prefers.

• Breast pump. A breast pump (manual or electric) can help you express milk for times you're away from your baby or managing your milk supply. Many models allow for double pumping, saving time and supporting your milk production. The AAP recommends proper cleaning and storage of expressed milk.

• Formula. If you're using formula, consult your baby’s healthcare provider to choose a brand and type suited to your newborn’s needs. 

• Bottle warmer. A convenient way to evenly warm milk or formula to a safe temperature, especially helpful during nighttime feedings. While not essential, many first-time parents find it a must-have newborn item.

• Milk storage bags. These little bags help you compactly store breast milk. They’re usually single-use products and may allow you to store milk without having to use bottles for storage purposes. As a bonus, you can usually pump directly into the bag.

• Bottlebrush. This will help you thoroughly clean the inside of the bottle.

• Bottle sterilizer. While thorough washing is usually sufficient, a sterilizer can provide added peace of mind by killing germs on bottles, nipples, and pacifiers—especially helpful during your baby's first few months.

• Bottle-drying rack. This is not an essential item, but you might find it helpful as a designated space to dry your baby’s bottles, especially if you don’t tend to have much room left on your dish-drying rack.

These breastfeeding and bottle-feeding essentials are designed to support your baby’s health and comfort while simplifying your feeding routine. With the right tools and guidance from your provider, you’ll feel more confident and prepared to nourish your little one from day one.

Newborn Health Essentials

Keeping your baby healthy is a top priority, and having the right baby care products on hand can make all the difference. Preparing a newborn baby medicine list ensures you're ready for any minor health concerns that may arise. Here are some essentials to consider:

• First-aid kit. Stock this with basic items like a baby thermometer, tweezers, antibiotic ointment, adhesive bandages, and petroleum jelly, all in one place. You may wish to have another first-aid kit in the car or the diaper bag so you have some of these essentials when you’re on the go as well.

• Bulb syringe. You can gently remove mucus from your baby’s nose with one of these handy syringes.

• Nail clippers or a soft emery board. Your little one’s nails will need trimming from time to time, which will also help prevent accidental scratching.

• Soft-bristled hairbrush. Even if your little one doesn’t have much hair, a brush can help loosen scales if your newborn ends up with cradle cap.

• Sunscreen. It's best to keep your baby out of direct sunlight for the first six months. If shade or protective clothing isn't available, apply a small amount of sunscreen to exposed areas like the face and hands.

• Gentle detergent. Use a mild detergent to wash your baby's clothes and bedding. If you notice any skin irritation, switch to a hypoallergenic option designed for babies. 

• Babyproofing accessories. Although your newborn won’t be independently moving around for a while, babyproofing accessories are an eventual must-have on your newborn checklist. It may even help to tackle some babyproofing chores ahead of time. Check out our babyproofing guide to help you get started.

Newborn Playtime Essentials

Playtime is more than just fun—it’s an opportunity for your baby’s development and sensory exploration. Including a few key items in your playtime setup can help keep your little one entertained while stimulating their growing mind and body. Here are some playtime items you might consider:

• Baby swing. Swings sway or vibrate to help soothe your little one. Unlike a bouncer, a swing typically moves without your newborn having to create the movement with their legs; instead, you use the sway or vibration setting. Keep in mind that baby swings have a minimum and maximum weight limit, so make sure you choose one that suits your newborn’s size. Swings often have toys that hang overhead, and some even make sounds or play music.

• Baby bouncer. Bouncers are similar to baby swings, but your baby’s leg movements cause them to bounce. A bouncer could very well be an essential item for you, as it makes it easy for you to get things done nearby while knowing your baby is safe and entertained. Bouncers have minimum and maximum weight limits, so take a look at the manufacturer’s guidelines before buying one. 

• Play mat. Newborns benefit from a little tummy time each day. You can place a thin, soft play mat on the floor to give your little one somewhere to enjoy a few minutes of tummy time a couple of times a day. Always closely supervise tummy time. 

• Portable play yard. This versatile item creates a safe, enclosed space for your baby to play or nap, and it’s easy to move from room to room. It’s a must-have for multitasking parents.

• Toys. Early on, your baby may enjoy simple rattles, soft books, or toys with high-contrast images. Items like these can capture their attention and help them focus. As they grow, consider introducing soft toys, bulk stress toys, or stacking toys to support their motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Always choose toys without small parts to avoid choking hazards.

Newborn On-the-Go Essentials

Taking your baby out and about requires a little preparation, and having the right baby gear makes all the difference. So, what baby gear do you need when you’re on the go? Whether it’s a quick errand or a longer trip, these infant travel essentials will help you stay organized and ready for anything:

• Car seat. A rear-facing car seat is a must-have from the moment you bring your baby home from the hospital. Choose one that meets the latest safety standards and fits securely in your vehicle. Proper installation is critical, so make sure it’s ready before your due date.

• Stroller. Whether you’re opting for a travel system, car seat carrier, or full-sized stroller, make sure it meets safety standards and suits your family’s needs. 

• Baby carrier or wrap. A baby carrier can be extremely useful for keeping your baby close while allowing you to have your hands free. There are several styles of baby carriers available, including wraps, slings, front packs, and backpacks. It's important to note that some baby carriers require a newborn insert for safe use with very young infants. Always follow the latest safety guidelines when using your carrier.

• Diaper bag. This is one of the most important items for any parent. Look for a functional design with plenty of compartments to organize essentials like diapers, wipes, and bottles. A backpack-style diaper bag is ideal for carrying baby activities and gear while keeping your hands free. Find out what to pack in your diaper bag with our handy checklist.

• Sunshade for car windows. It’s important to keep your newborn out of direct sunlight to protect their delicate skin. You might like to cover the back-seat windows of your car with a shade cover to keep your newborn out of the sun.

• Portable crib. If you’re planning to travel or take your baby to Grandma’s, a portable crib may be an essential item for your lifestyle. Check that the portable crib you’re considering meets the latest safety standards.

• Portable changing pad. A portable changing pad can also help ensure you always have somewhere clean to change your little one’s diapers. The pads usually roll up quite compactly to fit in most diaper bags.

• Disposable diaper pail. These are great for having somewhere to store your baby’s dirty diapers, no matter where you are.

• Stroller rain cover. A stroller rain cover is a lifesaver during unexpected showers. Some strollers come with one, or you can purchase a universal model.

Newborn Sleep Essentials

Sleep is often a top concern for new parents. While everyone talks about the sleep disruption that comes with a newborn, few focus on the steps you can take to create a soothing sleep environment and foster healthy sleep habits from day one. Here’s a helpful newborn checklist to prepare your room for better sleep:

• White-noise machine or music player. White noise mimics the sound of the womb and can help your newborn adjust to the world outside of the womb, helping them fall asleep faster.

• Humidifier. A humidifier helps moisturize the air. Your baby’s healthcare provider may recommend getting a cool mist humidifier for the nursery if the air is particularly dry. Avoiding overly dry air may help keep your newborn comfortable, especially if they have a cough or cold.

• Blackout shades. Since the body’s circadian rhythm is largely governed by light, even the smallest crack of light can cause short naps, early wakeups, or bedtime resistance. A good set of blackout shades is worth every penny when it comes to quality of sleep.

• Smart Sleep Coach by Pampers. To help create your baby’s customized sleep plan, this app features a smart sleep scheduler that updates with each naptime and bedtime you track. It also offers sleep support and advice from pediatricians and sleep experts.

New Parent Essentials

While most newborn checklists focus on physical items, preparing yourself emotionally and mentally for parenthood is just as important. Taking time to educate yourself about childbirth and baby care can make the transition smoother and more rewarding. 

Here are some resources and must-haves for first-time moms and dads:

• Childbirth education classes. Enroll in a class to gain practical knowledge about the birth process. These classes often cover topics like relaxation techniques, stages of labor, pain management options, and creating a birth plan. Check out the Pampers Childbirth Education Series to get started.

• Prenatal breastfeeding classes. While breastfeeding is natural, it can take time for both you and your baby to learn. A class can help boost your confidence and prepare you for nursing your newborn. For additional support, download the Go-To Breastfeeding Guide.

The Bottom Line

Preparing for your newborn’s arrival is a joyful yet busy time. If you’re wondering “What baby gear do you need?” By following this checklist, you’ll feel ready with all the newborn baby essentials you need. 

If you’re still working on your baby shower registry, check out this baby shower registry checklist to ensure your loved ones know exactly what to gift you.

Don’t forget to join the Pampers Rewards app for exclusive discounts and digital rewards. It’s a helpful way to save on diapers, wipes and other everyday baby care products, as well as access educational content as you navigate this exciting new chapter.

_{How We Wrote This Article The information in this article is based on the expert advice found in trusted medical and government sources, such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. You can find a full list of sources used for this article below. The content on this page should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult medical professionals for full diagnosis and treatment.}