Newborn Baby Checklist—The Must-Haves and More

Essential Baby Checklist: What You Need from Pregnancy to 12 Months

Welcoming a baby into the world requires careful planning and preparation. A well-organized baby checklist ensures that parents have everything they need for each stage—from pregnancy to the newborn months and beyond. While some items are essential, others depend on personal preference and lifestyle.

Here are some key categories and items to consider as you prepare:

• Pregnancy essentials. Prenatal vitamins, maternity clothes, belly support bands, and pregnancy books.

• Hospital bag. Comfortable clothing for you, newborn outfits, blankets, and diapers for the trip home.

• Nursery and home setup. Crib or bassinet, mattress pads, fitted sheets, changing table, nightlight, humidifier, and baby-safe laundry detergent.

• Feeding needs. Bottles, formula or breast pump, nursing pads, and nipple cream.

• Newborn and infant care. Diapers, wipes, burp cloths, baby wash, hooded towels, pacifiers, and a car seat.

• Toys and development. High-contrast toys for newborns; rattles, teething rings, and activity centers as your baby grows.

• Safety and mobility. Baby-proofing supplies, outlet covers, baby gates, and a stroller for outings.

Whether you're creating a registry or stocking up on must-haves, this baby checklist covers all the key items you'll need. Now, let’s dive deeper into each stage to ensure your little one has everything necessary for a smooth and happy start in life.

Newborn Baby Diapering Essentials

Get ready for plenty of diaper changes—it’s a big part of your daily routine as a parent. While not the most glamorous task, having the right baby essentials can make diapering much easier.

Here’s what you’ll need for your diapering setup:

• Changing table. A safe, dedicated surface for changing diapers is essential. Choose a table with shelves or drawers to store supplies like diapers and wipes (if you have extra space you can buy and store your infant’s diapers and wipes in bulk to be extra prepared), keeping them easily accessible but out of your baby's reach. Many come with safety straps, but always keep a hand on your baby during changes.

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

• Diapers. You’ll definitely need diapers, and lots of them! Your newborn may go through something like 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 Aqua Pure, Pampers Sensitive and more.

• Washcloths. Wet a washcloth with warm water and use it to wipe your baby’s diaper area. You can also use a washcloth 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.

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

Check out our free, printable New Parents Guide below for all the key things you need to know on your pregnancy and parenting journey:

Newborn Baby Nursery Necessities

For many parents-to-be, the nursery quickly becomes the heart of the home. If you’ve been enjoying the process of nesting but aren’t quite sure if you have all the nursery necessities, this checklist will help ensure you’re fully prepared for your baby’s arrival. From baby room essentials to practical additions, here’s what you’ll need:

• Crib. A crib is one of the top baby essentials, providing your newborn 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.

• 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).

• Bassinet. A room necessity for many is a bassinet which offers portability and convenience during those early weeks. However, you’ll still need a crib for the long term.

• 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.

• Diaper caddy basket. 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.

• 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. The gentle rocking motion may even help calm a fussy newborn.

• Toy basket. While not critical, a small basket 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. Choose one with high-contrast images for newborns, like bold patterns or primary colors, to catch their attention

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

Need some nursery décor inspiration? Take our quiz below!

Newborn Baby 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 great baby essentials for playtime:

• 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 it 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.

• 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.

• 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.

Newborn Baby 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. Here are the newborn baby essentials to consider for feeding time:

• Burp cloths. These handy cloths protect your clothing during burping sessions and are especially useful if your baby spits up frequently. Consider adding bulk washcloths to your registry as an economical alternative for cleaning up spills and spit-up.

• Nursing cover. A nursing cover helps shelter you and your little one while breastfeeding. It typically comes with a strap you can tie around your neck to keep it in place. You can also use a receiving blanket as a nursing cover, but as it doesn’t have a strap, it may slip off more easily.

• Receiving blankets. These versatile newborn essentials work as nursing covers, burp cloths, or even swaddles. Sold in packs, they’re a practical addition to your feeding routine.

• Nursing pillow. For some extra comfort for both you and your little one, consider getting one of these U-shaped cushy pillows. These firm pillows give your newborn somewhere to rest other than your arms, which can also take some of the weight off your body, too.

• Bibs. Bibs are certainly an essential item, as they can help protect your baby’s clothes from milk, formula, and drool.

• Bottles and nipples. Whether you plan to breastfeed or formula feed, baby bottles are must-haves for your newborn checklist. You can choose from glass and plastic options; some of the plastic varieties come with a bottle liner insert to reduce the amount of air your newborn swallows. When choosing a bottle, consider the nipple shape and size. You may need to try a few different nipples before finding one your newborn likes.

• Breast pump. You can use a manual pump or one that's electric or battery-powered to express breast milk when needed, such as if you return to work or if you’ll be away from your newborn for longer stretches. Some models pump both breasts at the same time.

• Formula. Your baby’s healthcare provider can help you choose from the many types and brands of formula.

• Bottle warmer. This time-saving tool ensures your baby’s milk or formula is evenly warmed to the right temperature, making it a true first-time mom must-have.

• 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. You may like the convenience of a sterilizer to keep things like bottles and nipples hygienic, though washing them thoroughly by hand or in the dishwasher works just as well. Some sterilizers come combined with a bottle warmer.

• 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.

With these feeding baby essentials, you’ll feel more confident and prepared to nourish your little one in those early days.

Newborn Baby Wardrobe Essentials

Dressing your newborn is an exciting part of preparing for their arrival, but it’s also important to focus on comfort and practicality. Babies grow quickly, so while it’s tempting to buy all the adorable tiny outfits, consider including larger sizes in your collection. Newborns typically need an extra layer compared to what you’re wearing to keep them cozy. Here’s your newborn clothes checklist to ensure you’re ready:

• Swaddle blanket. Perfect for keeping your baby snug and secure during the early weeks. Some options include hook-and-loop fasteners for easy use, while winter newborn essentials like thicker swaddles are ideal for colder climates.

• 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 allow babies to also wear pajamas underneath.

• Undershirts and one-piece outfits. These are staples in any baby essentials clothing collection. 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.

• Knit hat or cap. If it will be 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!

Newborn Baby Bath Time Essentials

Your baby’s first baths are a special bonding experience, and having the right bath items to have for the registry can make it safe and enjoyable. While newborns only need about three baths a week during their first year, this checklist includes all the essentials to keep your little one clean and comfortable:

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

• 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.

• 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.

• 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 Baby On-the-Go Essentials

Taking your baby out and about requires thoughtful preparation, and having the right baby gear makes all the difference. 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. This item can be super useful to keep your baby close as you move around, while also leaving you with your hands free. Baby carriers come in several styles, including wraps, slings, front packs, and backpacks. Keep in mind that some baby carriers need a newborn insert to be used safely for this age group. 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 Baby 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 supplies. Although your newborn won’t be independently moving around for a while, babyproofing tools and supplies are an eventual must-have on your newborn checklist. It may even help to tackle some babyproofing chores ahead of time.

Newborn Baby 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 checklist to prepare your room essentials 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 are 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.

Watch this short video for sleeping tips from pediatric sleep coach Mandy Treeby cofounder of the Smart Sleep Coach app:

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 essentials for parents-to-be and resources to consider:

• 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. By following this checklist, you’ll feel ready with all the newborn baby essentials you need. To make your planning even easier, download a simplified version of this checklist for easy access while shopping and organizing.

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 download the Pampers Rewards app for exclusive discounts and digital rewards. It’s a helpful way to save on diapers and wipes 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.}