Must-Have Newborn Essentials
Stepping into parenthood can feel like a swirling circus, especially when deciphering which baby goodies are absolute lifesavers versus junk drawers. Here’s a trusty list that’ll make those mattress-tag-bleary months a bit more bearable.
Nursery Furniture and Linens
Setting up a cozy crib corner is like nesting on steroids. Your comfort and your little one’s comfort go hand in hand.
- Crib, Mini Crib, or Bassinet: Pick a cozy little snooze zone that fits your space and vibe.
- Firm, Flat Mattress: Supports a good night’s sleep ’cause you’ll need all the wink time you can catch.
- 2-4 Fitted Crib Sheets: More sheets—less laundry panic during those wee-hour blowouts.
- Rocking Chair or Glider: Your sanity during late-night sing-alongs.
- Baby Monitor: Handy gadget for sneaky peeks when you’re camped on the sofa with some much-needed Netflix.
- Diaper Changing Table or Dresser with Changing Pad: Diaper duty central.
Besides all that crib jazz, stock up on soft and snuggly necessities:
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fitted Crib Sheets | 2-4 |
| Receiving Blankets | 3-5 |
| Swaddle Blankets | 2-3 |
| Newborn Size Clothing | 2 Sets |
| 0-3 Months Size Clothing | 6 Sets |
Wanna know more about setting up a dreamy nursery? Check our guide on putting together your baby’s snug sanctuary.
Feeding Gear Essentials
Feeding takes up an Olympic-sized portion of your time, whether you’re prepping bottles or mastering one-handed breastfeeding.
- Bottles and Nipples: Circa 8-10 bottles with age-suitable nipple selections.
- Bottle Brush: Keeps those bottles sparklin’—milk remnants begone!
- Dishwasher Basket: Keeps all the bits tucked safe during a wash.
- Formula (if not nursing): A game-changer for bottle-fed bubs.
- Breast Pump: Must-have for expressing milk—Spectra S1 Plus is a good shout!
- Milk Storage Bags: Stockpile that liquid gold.
- Nursing Pads: Avoids embarrassing outfits-onsies mashups.
- Nipple Cream: Trust us, you’ll need it.
Equip yourself with these items, and you’re on your way to culinary adventures in baby feeding. Grab extra wisdom on feeding gear with our piece on the ins and outs of getting baby to sleep well.
Ready, set, welcome to baby-town! With these six-month essentials, you’ve got a head start. Oh, and don’t miss out on our tips for calming your peanut down with a pregnancy pillow for more hacks on surviving parenthood with style.
Diapering and Bathing Must-Haves
Diapering Supplies
Got a little one on the way? As a new parent, you’ll want a stash of diapering goods that can simplify those first few whirlwind months. Here’s your go-to shopping list:
- Disposable Diapers: Trust me, you’ll want 2 to 3 big boxes of those newborn diapers. They’re lifesavers in the wee hours when the baby cries.
- Baby Wipes: Two to three hefty boxes of unscented wipes—your new best friend for cleaning those tiny tushies.
- Diaper Cream: Keep a couple of large tubes handy to tackle that dreaded diaper rash like a pro.
- Diaper Bag: Think you won’t need this? Think again! A sturdy bag can help you juggle all those baby supplies while you’re out and about.
- Baby Clothing: Grab 4-8 onesies, shirts, and pants. Make sure you’ve got 1-3 jackets or sweaters for those chilly days too.
Considering an eco-friendly route with cloth diapers? Here’s your checklist:
- Cloth Diapers: Aim for 20-24 so you aren’t caught off guard without a clean one.
- Inserts and Diaper Covers: You’ll need plenty for maximum soak-up and leak smarts.
- Diaper Pail: Just toss the dirty diapers in here, and you’ll be sorted until wash day.
- Diaper Rash Ointment: You’ll still need this to keep those little bottoms rash-free.
| Items | How Many? |
|---|---|
| Disposable Diapers | 2-3 Boxes |
| Unscented Baby Wipes | 2-3 Boxes |
| Diaper Cream | 2 Tubes |
| Diaper Bag | 1 |
| Cloth Diapers | 20-24 |
| Inserts and Diaper Covers | 10-12 each |
| Diaper Pail | 1 |
| Baby Clothing | 4-8 each |
Check out how to comfort a crying baby using a pregnancy pillow for tips on soothing your little one during those early days.
Bath Time Stuff
Bathing your baby is a splashy affair, all the giggles and coos—just make sure you’re prepped with these essentials:
- Baby Bathtub: The tub’s your safe zone, keeping your little water baby comfy.
- Baby Shampoo and Body Wash: Look for products like Babo Botanicals Sensitive Baby Shampoo & Wash. They’re gentle on baby’s sensitive skin.
- Hooded Baby Towels: Hooded towels in a set of 2-4 keep your baby cozy right after the bath.
- Soft Washcloths: You’ll need these for those gentle, everyday wipes and splashes.
| Items | How Many? |
|---|---|
| Baby Bathtub | 1 |
| Baby Shampoo & Body Wash | 1 Bottle |
| Hooded Baby Towels | 2-4 |
| Soft Washcloths | 4-6 |
Set up your baby’s comfy nook with our guide on how to set up a comfortable nursery for your baby, and explore baby sleep training: when & how to start for tips on helping your baby nap peacefully.
With these diapering and bathing essentials in place, you’ll breeze through the first six months of caring for your tiny human.
