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The Ultimate Newborn Essentials Checklist

November 20248 min readBy Baby Bids Editorial TeamReviewed and updated: July 2026

Every new parent gets overwhelmed by the sheer number of baby products out there. Here's what you actually need — and what you can skip.

Must-Haves (Get These Before Birth)

Safety
  • Infant car seat (required to leave the hospital)
  • Baby monitor
  • Outlet covers
    • Sleep
  • Bassinet or crib with firm, flat mattress
  • Fitted crib sheets (2–3)
  • Swaddle blankets or sleep sacks
    • Feeding
  • If breastfeeding: nursing pillow, breast pump (often covered by insurance), milk storage bags
  • If bottle feeding: bottles (try a few brands — babies are picky), formula, bottle brush
    • Diapering
  • Diapers (get mostly Newborn and Size 1; don't overbuy Newborn)
  • Wipes (buy in bulk — you'll use thousands)
  • Diaper cream
  • Changing pad
    • Clothing
  • Onesies with snap closures (0–3 and 3–6 months)
  • Sleepers/footie pajamas
  • Socks and hats
  • One or two weather-appropriate outfits
    • Health
  • Nasal aspirator (Frida NoseFrida is worth it)
  • Digital rectal thermometer (most accurate for newborns)
  • Nail file (babies have surprisingly sharp nails)
  • Baby nail clippers

    • Nice to Have

  • Bouncer seat
  • Baby carrier or wrap
  • White noise machine
  • Baby bathtub
  • Play mat

    • Skip These (At First)

  • Wipe warmer — not necessary and can breed bacteria
  • Diaper Genie — a regular trash can with a lid works fine
  • Baby shoes — newborns don't walk
  • Tons of clothing — babies outgrow sizes fast, and you'll receive lots as gifts

    • Pro Tip: Use Your Baby Registry

    Add all the must-haves to your Baby Bids pool's linked Amazon registry so friends and family can shop directly for what you actually need.

    About the author

    Baby Bids Editorial Team writes practical guides for expecting parents and baby shower hosts, focused on clear rules, easy participation, and family-friendly planning.

    Reviewed by Baby Bids Content Review Board. Reviewed and updated July 2026.

    Editorial standards

    We publish original guidance based on practical event-planning experience, product research, and transparent update reviews. Product links may include affiliate tracking, but recommendations are selected independently and refreshed as content is reviewed.

    Read our editorial policy
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    📷Baby Monitors🍼Feeding👗Clothing🛏️Nursery
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