Introduction It’s time to embrace the nesting phase and get ready for your new arrival! Get a full list of must-have items, from diapers and clothes to car seats and strollers, so you can create a safe and comfortable landing spot for your little one. We’ve also organized our newborn baby essentials checklist by category, so if you’re creating a baby registry, it should be easy to reference when choosing your own essentials. Clothing Essentials Keeping your newborn comfortable is essential for their well-being. The right clothing items will help regulate their body temperature and provide soft, gentle comfort. Onesies and Bodysuits Opt for soft, 100% organic cotton onesies that are gentle on your baby's delicate skin. Cotton is a breathable fabric that allows air to circulate, helping regulate your little one's body temperature and prevent overheating. It’s a top choice for newborns because it's less likely to cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. Look for onesies with the following: Snap closures: Snaps at the crotch and often down the front make diaper changes quick and convenient. Fold-over mittens: Some onesies have built-in mittens to prevent those tiny nails from scratching. Variety of styles: Stock up on short-sleeved, long-sleeved, and sleeveless options to suit different seasons and temperatures. Make sure you have more than a handful of onesies, so you have extras on hand when spit-ups and diaper leaks happen. Soft Socks and Comfy Hats Baby socks and hats aren’t just adorable; they also help regulate your baby's body temperature. Newborns can easily lose heat through their extremities, so keeping those tiny feet and heads covered helps them stay comfortable. Cozy Sleepers and Pajamas When it's time for sleep, cozy sleepers are your baby's best friend. These one-piece wonders keep little ones snug and warm without restricting movement. Try looking for: Footed sleepers: Footed sleepers keep those tiny toes warm and eliminate the need for socks, which often get kicked off. Breathable fabrics: Again, cotton is an excellent choice. It helps prevent overheating, which is important for safe sleep. Zippers or snaps: Zippers make middle-of-the-night changes a breeze, but snaps can be gentler on delicate skin. NIH (National Institute of Health) sleep experts suggest dressing your baby in lightweight layers, like cotton sleepers, to help prevent overheating. Swaddles or Sleep Sacks Swaddling can be a lifesaver for new parents! It helps soothe babies by recreating the secure feeling of the womb. Why swaddle? The gentle pressure of a swaddle helps calm babies and reduce the startle reflex, which can wake them up. Swaddled babies tend to sleep longer and sounder in a swaddle; just make sure to choose a lightweight swaddle that can help keep your baby warm without overheating. Want a swaddle alternative? Sleep sacks are also a great option if your baby is uncomfortable with traditional swaddling. They provide the same cozy feeling without restricting the baby's arms (and they’ll need their arms as they learn to roll over later). Sleep Essentials Creating a cozy sleep environment is one of the best ways to support restful sleep for your newborn. After all, those early days (and nights) revolve around sleep. Here are the essentials every parent needs to help their little one sleep comfortably and securely: Crib or Bassinet Every newborn needs a safe and comfortable place to sleep, and that often starts with deciding between a crib or bassinet. In those first few months, it's recommended that your baby sleeps in your room as it makes nighttime feedings and check-ups easier and can help reduce the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). But with limited space or limited budgets, you might be wondering which option is best: a crib or bassinet. Here's what to keep in mind: Safety first: Whether you choose a crib or bassinet, find one that meets current safety standards. Look for sturdy construction, a firm mattress that fits snugly, and narrow slats to prevent entrapment. Crib vs. bassinet: While bassinets aren’t essential, they are smaller and more portable, making them ideal for those early months when you want to keep your baby close. They can easily fit in your room, even if space is limited. Cribs, on the other hand, are larger and designed for longer-term use. Consider your needs: If you plan to move your baby's sleep space frequently throughout the day (remember, newborns sleep around 16-17 hours a day!), a bassinet's portability might be a big plus. However, if portability isn’t a priority, a crib might be a better option as it offers more longevity as your baby grows. Playard with Bassinet Option: If you're unsure about a separate bassinet, a playard with a bassinet insert can be a great choice! It's a cozy spot for your newborn to sleep, and it can easily be moved from room to room for naps or playtime. It offers a great combination of comfort and convenience, and it can be used as a playard later on. Keep it simple: Regardless of whether you choose a bassinet, a crib, or a playard with a bassinet option, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends a bare sleep environment to reduce the risk of SIDS. This means that there should just be the baby, a firm mattress, and a fitted sheet within the sleeping area—no blankets, pillows, stuffed animals, or bumpers. Baby Monitor A baby monitor is like a virtual extension of your senses, allowing you to monitor your newborn closely while they slumber peacefully in another room. It's a must-have for any new parent, offering peace of mind and the freedom to tend to other tasks (self-care included) while staying connected to your baby. Audio monitors: These classic monitors transmit sound, so you can hear your baby if they cry, coo, or make any noises. They're budget-friendly and offer a simple way to stay connected. Video monitors: Video monitors take things a step further by including a screen that displays a live feed of your baby. You can see them sleeping, moving, or even catch those adorable sleepy smiles. Many video monitors also offer features like night vision and pan/tilt capabilities, allowing you to see the entire crib. Movement monitors: Movement monitors use sensors to detect your baby's movements. They typically attach to the diaper or mattress and will alert you if no movement is detected for a specific period. Smart Sock Monitors: A small, comfortable sock worn on your baby's foot that monitors their heart rate, oxygen levels, and sometimes even sleep quality. This data is transmitted to your smartphone or a dedicated device, providing real-time insights into your baby's well-being. Humidifier Dry air can irritate your baby's delicate nasal passages, leading to congestion and stuffiness. A humidifier adds moisture to the air, helping to loosen mucus, relieve stuffy noses, and soothe the baby's delicate skin. Always choose a cool-mist humidifier for your baby's room. Warm-mist humidifiers can pose a burn risk if they're accidentally tipped over. Some humidifiers offer features like automatic shut-off and adjustable mist output, which can be helpful when you have your hands full taking care of your newborn. Diaper Essentials Having the right diaper essentials on hand keeps your newborn clean, comfortable, and dry. Here’s what every parent needs to make diaper changes easier and more efficient. Diapers Newborns typically need about 8-12 diaper changes a day, so having a steady supply of diapers is critical. Depending on your preference, you’ll want to stock up on disposable diapers or cloth diapers. Disposable diapers: Convenient and easy to use, disposable diapers are a popular choice for many parents. Look for options labeled for newborns and designed for sensitive skin to minimize irritation. Cloth diapers: Cloth diapers come in various styles, from pre-fold to all-in-one options, and require washing between uses. Don’t forget to have plenty of inserts if you go this route. Diaper Pail A diaper pail is essential for keeping your nursery clean and odor-free. Look for features like: A secure lid to contain smells. A foot pedal for hands-free operation is particularly helpful during busy diaper changes. Pair your diaper pail with disposable liners for hygienic and convenient disposal of soiled diapers. Wipes and Diaper Cream Stock up on hypoallergenic baby wipes to gently clean your newborn’s sensitive skin. Opt for wipes that are fragrance-free and alcohol-free to avoid irritation. Adding a diaper rash cream to your kit is equally important. Diaper creams with zinc oxide provide a protective barrier, keeping your baby’s skin safe from moisture and irritation. Use a thin layer at each diaper change to help prevent rashes from developing. Diaper Bag A well-organized diaper bag makes outings with your newborn stress-free. Choose a bag with: Multiple compartments for easy access to essentials like diapers, wipes, and bottles. A lightweight design to carry comfortably on your shoulder or attach to your stroller. Insulated pockets for keeping bottles warm or cool. Changing Pad A changing pad provides a safe, comfortable surface for diaper changes. Many pads come with a waterproof cover that makes cleanup a breeze. Changing Pad Liners For an added layer of convenience, use disposable changing pad liners. These liners protect the changing pad from spills and messes, making cleanup fast and easy. Feeding Time Essentials Feeding time is a special bonding moment for you and your newborn, and having the right essentials can make it smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s a list of must-haves to help make every feeding comfortable and convenient. Bottles and Nipples Whether breastfeeding, formula-feeding, or combining both, having bottles and nipples on hand is necessary for convenience, flexibility, and shared feeding responsibilities. Here’s how bottles can support your feeding journey: For Breastfed Babies Bottles, even if focusing on breastfeeding, give families flexible options to lean on (especially middle-of-the-night feedings): Shared Feeding: Bottles allow other caregivers to participate in feeding, giving the breastfeeding parent a well-deserved break. Typically, breastfed newborns nurse every 2-3 hours, which means around 8-12 feedings per day, so taking a few shifts for your partner will be a big help. Pumped Milk Storage: Bottles provide a convenient way to store and feed expressed breast milk, ensuring your baby can enjoy breast milk even when you’re not available. Feeding Flexibility: Bottle feeding makes it easier to manage feeding schedules, particularly if you’re returning to work, running errands, or traveling. Smooth Transitions: Introducing bottles early—using a nipple designed to mimic breastfeeding—can help prevent nipple confusion, ensuring your baby can comfortably transition between breast and bottle when needed. For Formula-Fed Babies Planning on formula-feeding? Having high-quality, easy-to-clean bottles are a must-have: Customized Options: Bottles come with various nipple flow rates, shapes, and materials to suit your baby’s preferences and needs. When choosing a bottle for your newborn, start with smaller sizes (4-5 ounces) with wide necks for easy cleaning. Slow-flow nipples can help prevent choking, and you can choose from glass, plastic (BPA-free), or silicone materials, but also consider anti-colic vents, which can be easier on sensitive tummies. Ultimately, the best bottle is the one your baby takes to comfortably, so buying a few different options before committing to several of one kind might be a good idea. In fact, pediatricians suggest starting with a few different bottle styles to see which one your baby prefers, as some may mimic breastfeeding better than others. Quantity: Newborns have tiny tummies and growing bodies and must eat frequently. Formula-fed newborns usually need a bottle every 3-4 hours. So, once you’ve found a bottle type that works well for your baby, having several on hand is key and can reduce the need to wash a limited number of bottles multiple times a day. Middle-of-the-Night Convenience: Preparing bottles in advance or using bottles designed to mix formula quickly can make late-night feedings smoother and more efficient. Formula (If You’re Not Breastfeeding) Formula feeding is a practical and reliable choice for families who are not breastfeeding, ensuring infants receive the necessary nutrition to thrive. While having some formula on hand before your baby arrives is helpful, avoid purchasing large quantities initially. Babies often have individual preferences or dietary sensitivities, so you may need to experiment with different brands or types before settling on the one that works best. Additionally, hospitals often provide starter containers to get you started. There are several types of formulas designed to meet different dietary needs: Cow’s milk-based formulas are the most common, offering complete nutrition for most infants. Soy-based formulas can be a good alternative for babies with lactose intolerance or specific dietary restrictions. Lactose-free formulas are designed for babies with difficulty digesting lactose. Breast Pump (If You’re Breastfeeding) Whether you’re preparing to return to work, want to involve other caregivers in feedings, or simply need a break, a breast pump offers the flexibility to make it all possible. Before purchasing one, contact your insurance company to check if you’re eligible for a breast pump through your insurance at no or reduced cost. Many lactation consultants recommend double electric pumps for efficiency if you plan on pumping frequently. For more support, talk with a lactation consultant (you’re often paired with one at the hospital) who can offer guidance on using a breast pump, building a milk supply, and storing milk safely. Burp Cloths and Bottle Warmer Feeding a newborn often comes with spills and spit-ups, making burp cloths an essential part of your baby gear. Choose soft, absorbent cloths to keep you and your baby clean during and after feedings. Keep several on hand—you’ll go through them faster than you think! When it comes to warming bottles, you have a couple of options. For a simple, low-tech approach, warm the bottle in a pot of hot water (but make sure to test the milk temperature on the inside of your wrist before giving it to your newborn). Alternatively, an electric bottle warmer offers added convenience, quickly and evenly heating milk to the ideal temperature at the press of a button. Some models even double as a bottle sterilizer, making them a versatile addition to your feeding routine. Nursing Pillow Designed with both you and your baby in mind, a nursing pillow provides much-needed support during feeding sessions, helping you position your baby comfortably while reducing strain on your arms, shoulders, and back. Whether breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, this simple addition to your setup can make all the difference for those countless feedings ahead. On-the-Go Essentials Getting out and about with a newborn requires a few key items to keep them comfortable and make your travels easier. Here’s a roundup of on-the-go essentials to help you and your baby enjoy every outing. Infant Car Seat Your baby’s safety starts with the right infant car seat, and the Chicco KeyFit® 35 is a standout choice for its top-rated safety features and user-friendly design. From your baby’s first ride home to everyday errands, this car seat is designed to keep your newborn secure in the car. To ensure maximum safety, always follow the AAP guidelines for rear-facing car seats. These recommendations prioritize protecting your baby’s head, neck, and spine during every ride. For tips on proper installation and positioning, check out our Newborn Car Seat Positioning Guide. Car Seat Stroller Combinations For ultimate convenience, consider a travel system, which pairs an infant car seat with a compatible stroller. Travel systems are designed for seamless transitions between the car and stroller, so you can move your baby without disturbing them. Not sure of the difference? A stroller is a standalone product, while a travel system includes an infant car seat, infant car seat base, and stroller, offering all-in-one functionality that simplifies outings. Baby Carrier For hands-free convenience and extra closeness, a baby carrier is a must-have. It allows you to hold your newborn snugly against your chest while keeping your hands free for other tasks - grocery shopping, light walks, or simply keeping your baby close during busy days. Look for a carrier that offers: Neck and spine support for your baby’s developing body. Adjustable straps for your comfort and a secure fit. Portable Playard Traveling with a newborn? A portable playard with a bassinet is your go-to solution for overnight stays or visits to family and friends. Lightweight and easy to set up, it provides a safe and familiar sleeping space for your baby no matter where you go. When choosing a playard, look for features like: A foldable design for easy transport. A bassinet attachment for younger babies. Forgetting something? Before you head out the door, double-check your diaper bag. Stock it with all your essentials—diapers, wipes, a change of clothes, and a prepared bottle (keep it insulated)—so you’re always prepared for whatever your day brings. Bath Time Essentials From soft towels to gentle cleansers, these essentials can turn every bath into a soothing experience for your newborn: Baby Bathtub A baby-sized bathtub is a key item for safe and stress-free bathing. Designed specifically for newborns, these tubs offer just the right amount of support, often with built-in contours or slings to help cradle your baby securely. Gentle Soap and Moisturizer Your baby’s delicate skin deserves extra care, so stick to hypoallergenic, fragrance-free soaps and lotions. These products are less likely to irritate sensitive skin or cause dryness. A gentle baby soap cleans effectively without stripping natural oils. A soothing moisturizer helps lock in hydration, keeping your baby’s skin soft and supple. Dermatologists recommend using fragrance-free options to reduce the risk of skin allergies, especially in the early months when your baby’s skin is adjusting to the outside world. Hooded Towels and Soft Washcloths After a warm bath, nothing feels better than being wrapped in a soft, hooded towel. These towels are designed to dry your baby quickly while keeping them warm and cozy, especially around their head, where heat escapes most rapidly. Pair your towels with a set of gentle washcloths to clean your baby’s sensitive skin. The soft material is perfect for wiping delicate areas without causing irritation. Nail Clippers Baby nail clippers or a file are designed for small, delicate nails, helping prevent accidental scratches. Regularly trimming nails also reduces the chance of your baby scratching their face, a common issue for newborns. Health Essentials Supporting your newborn's health starts with having a few key items on hand for everyday care and peace of mind. Here are the essentials every newborn parent needs in their medicine cabinet: Thermometer Monitoring your baby’s temperature is crucial, especially during the first few months when even mild fevers can signal an infection. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends a digital rectal thermometer as the most accurate method for newborns. While temporal artery thermometers are convenient, they may not provide the same accuracy for infants under 3 months. Bulb syringe Newborns often struggle to clear mucus from their small nasal passages, which can make breathing and feeding difficult. A bulb syringe or other nose aspirators (that use a hose to create suction) are simple yet essential tools for gently suctioning out excess mucus. Newborn Baby Checklist FAQs What essentials do I need for a newborn baby? You’ll need plenty of diapers for frequent changes, bottles for feeding (even if breastfeeding, for pumped milk), and soft, breathable clothing like onesies and sleepers. A safe bassinet provides a cozy sleep environment that meets safety standards, while a rear-facing car seat, such as the Chicco KeyFit® 35, ensures your baby travels securely. Are pacifiers considered essential for newborns? Pacifiers are not essential but can be a helpful soothing tool for babies who enjoy sucking for comfort. If you choose to use one, make sure it’s a newborn size and has an orthodontic design to promote healthy oral development. Regular cleaning is important to keep pacifiers sanitary, and they should be replaced periodically. Some parents prefer to wait or avoid pacifiers to support breastfeeding or for personal preference, which is also perfectly fine. What are the 4 essentials of newborn care? The four essentials of newborn care include safe sleep, proper feeding, diapering, and health monitoring. Safe sleep means using a firm mattress, a fitted sheet, and no loose bedding or soft toys in the sleep space to reduce the risk of SIDS. Feeding includes breastfeeding, formula, or both, ensuring your baby gets the nutrition they need. Diapering involves keeping your baby clean and dry, while health monitoring includes tools like a thermometer for fevers and a bulb syringe for clearing nasal congestion. Checking Off Essentials with Chicco From diapers that handle those first midnight changes to car seats that keep your baby safe on their very first car ride, these items make your journey into parenthood smoother and more enjoyable. Planning ahead means you’ll spend less time stressing and more time soaking in those precious newborn snuggles. For more helpful tips and resources for your newborn baby, check out the Chicco Baby Talk Blog!