There’s a lot to prepare for when a baby is on the way, and getting everything together might be stressful. Take advantage of our newborn baby checklist to learn about the essentials and some “nice to haves” for the first three months of your baby’s life. Everything from nursery necessities to clothing, food, diapers, and bath time equipment, as well as portable, useful goods, can be found on our list. You’ll feel more prepared on the day you bring your kid home if you wait until you have these things in order.
Homeschool Checklist
The nursery quickly becomes the focal point of the home for many (if not most) expectant parents. Use our baby nursery checklist as a comprehensive list of things you may need for the arrival of your little one if you have been enjoying your time nesting but are unsure if you have all the essentials:
Crib
The crib is the most important item when it comes to preparing for a new baby. Your newborn will be sleeping for 16 hours a day or more, so make sure their crib is suitable for that amount of time.
A convertible crib is a good investment because it may be used for several years; first as a crib, then as a toddler bed, and finally as a daybed. Later on, certain versions can even be transformed into full-size beds! Buying a brand-new crib ensures that it has been tested and complies with all current safety regulations, making it the best option for your child.
Baby Bed Mattress
A firm, well-fitting mattress for the baby’s crib is one of the most crucial items you may purchase. This is the most secure sleeping surface available.
The Bed And Bedding
You won’t need much in the way of bedding, simply a waterproof mattress protector and a few sheets custom-made to fit your baby’s crib. Avoid the danger of suffocation and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) by keeping your baby’s crib empty.
The bassinet
We included a bassinet on our newborn checklist despite the fact that it is not required, as some parents find it more convenient to use for the first few weeks. Because of their compact size and mobility, bassinets are a convenient alternative to traditional cribs. Your baby will require a crib when the time comes.
Checklist For Fun Times
Toys and other baby gear for playtime are an essential part of our newborn baby checklist. The following are some examples of toys that would be appropriate for a newborn:
Infant swing
Babies find comfort in the swaying motion or vibrations of a swing. In contrast to a bouncer, you may utilize the sway or vibration setting on a swing to rock your baby to sleep without them needing to move their legs. When shopping for a baby swing, keep in mind that different models have different recommended and maximum weight limits. Some swing sets even feature hanging toys that play music or produce noise.
An Infant Jumper
Bouncers are like baby swings, except that your child can make it bounce by moving his or her legs. A bouncer can be a lifesaver, allowing you to do tasks around the house while keeping your baby secure and entertained. Check the manufacturer’s specifications for the minimum and maximum weight allowances of the bouncer you’re considering purchasing.
Foldable Playground Set
Your infant will have a secure spot to rest or play while you get things done around the house. The convenience of a foldable playpen lies in the fact that it may be relocated to any room in the house.
Toys
Aside from basic rattles and books with high-contrast patterns, there aren’t many toys that newborns and very young babies would enjoy just yet. As your baby gets older, toys like stacking toys, push-and-pull toys, and busy boxes with plenty of stimulating elements can be great options for both entertainment and growth. Always check infant toys for small pieces that could pose a choking hazard.
Checklist For Feeding
An important aspect of caring for a newborn is providing nutritious food, and our newborn checklist includes many items that will make this task easier. Take into account the following necessities for bottle-feeding your baby:
Baby Blankets
When you burp your baby, these will catch any spit up, no matter how little or how much there is. A receiving blanket might work, too, but a burp cloth is more convenient due to its size and portability.
Medical Protection
Protect yourself and your baby from the elements with a nursing cover. You may secure it in place by tying the included strap around your neck. A receiving blanket can also be used as a nursing cover, albeit it may come off more quickly because there is no strap.
Receiving Blankets
A receiving blanket is a lightweight blanket perfect for newborns. Due to their adaptability, we’ve included them in your baby registry. These blankets have multiple uses, including swaddling, covering the baby while breastfeeding, and wiping up spills.
Nursing Cushion
You and your young one can benefit from the added softness of this U-shaped pillow. These sturdily constructed pillows provide a comfortable alternative to holding your newborn, allowing you to rest your weary arms on the pillow instead.
Bibs
Babies often spill milk, formula, and saliva onto their clothing, therefore bibs are a must-have.
Clothing List
Shopping for or receiving tiny baby clothes is delightful. You may wish to buy bigger sizes because newborns grow out of smaller garments quickly—sometimes in days. Baby clothes aren’t just cute—they’re needed. Unless you live in a warm climate, layer. Always clothing your baby in one more layer than you do. The most essential infant clothing items are:
Swaddle blanket
Swaddling your newborn in the first weeks may require a particular blanket. You can use a receiving blanket, but there are other options, including ones with hook-and-loop fasteners for ease.
Pajamas or sleeping bags
Sleepwear is vital for newborns because they sleep a lot. Some pajamas, sleepers, and sleeping sacks cover the baby’s feet. Babies can wear pajamas under some sleeping sacks.
Undershirts
Diaper changes are easier with models that snap between the legs. Choose short or long sleeves and full-body or legless alternatives according to the weather.
A Checklist For The Bath
It’s possible that your infant will require no more than three baths each week for the first year of their life. However, even the most basic newborn baby bathing routine necessitates the use of some necessities. The following items are included on our list of necessities for the first few months of your baby’s life when it comes to bath time:
A Baby Bathtub Or A Baby Bath Seat
You will begin the process of bathing your new baby with a sponge until the remnants of the umbilical cord stump have come off; however, you will eventually require some kind of seat or tub in order to complete the process. Be certain that it can accommodate newborns or that it comes with a newborn insert that can be adjusted to fit your child’s smaller size.
The use of shampoo
In the event that your newborn has hair, you can clean it with a shampoo that is made especially for infants.
Soap
Pick a gentle soap that’s made specifically for infants and other small children.
Cup
To remove soap or shampoo from your child’s skin or hair, you can use a plastic scoop or cup to assist you in carefully pour water over your child’s head and body. Just take extra precautions to ensure that soapy water does not go into your child’s eyes!
Towels
You should get a plush towel, and if possible, get one that has a hood so that it can be dried more quickly.
Towels and washcloths
These might come in handy when you’re wiping your infant down.
Lotion for infants and children
In most cases, a newborn does not require special lotions; nevertheless, if your little one has dry patches of skin, you can apply a baby moisturizer that does not include any fragrance.
Conclusion
There are several essential items necessary for a newborn baby to ensure their comfort, safety, and well-being. These items include clothing such as onesies, sleepers, and hats to protect them from the elements, diapers, and wipes for hygiene purposes, a crib or bassinet for sleeping, a car seat for transportation, bottles, and formula or a breast pump for feeding, and baby monitors to ensure their security.
These essentials provide parents with the necessary tools to meet their newborn’s needs and create a nurturing environment for their growth and development. It is important for parents to stay informed and well-prepared in order to provide the best care for their newborn.