I was asked by one of my followers to create a blog post featuring all of my favorite newborn essentials, so I put together a long list of all of my must-have’s that are all broken down by category. I have to warn you, I am not a minimalist by any means so my newborns essentials list is quite extensive, but I have been careful to only include items that I have used and loved. I have also included “general items” in the list that you will need, but that I have no specific preference or recommendations on. The collage below is shoppable, meaning you can click on any item you want to shop, but it does only include a small fraction of my must-haves. (I just couldn’t fit them all in one graphic.)
CLOTHING & STORAGE
- Sleepers that are footed WITH built-in zippers and MITTENS: Old Navy, PoshPeanut, and Spearmint Love.
- Footed pants: these.
- One piece body suits with snaps in newborn sizes: these in every color!
- Warm Hat
- Drawer Organizers
- Baby Hangers
FEEDING
- SLOW FLOW Bottles if you are nursing: Find a nipple that closely resembles yours.
- Bottle Warmer: This was our second one and I loved it.
- Bottle Brush
- Bottle Drying Rack
- Pacifiers: Get a few different styles and sizes (0-6 & 6-12).
- Pacifier Clip: The one we used is no longer available, but these are so cute!
- Pacifier Holder
- Burp Rags: Love these because they are large and not bulky.
- Breast Pump if you are nursing: I used the Medela the first time and did not like it. I now have the Elvie Hands Free pump and the Spectra, and love them both for different reasons.
- Breastmilk Storage Bags, again if you are nursing.
- Nursing Pillow
- Nursing Pillow Covers: I purchased two, so that I had a back up when one was in the wash.
SLEEPING & NURSERY DECOR
- Sound Machine
- Humidifier
- Baby Monitor
- Owlet Baby Monitor: Expensive but so worth. Gives piece of mind while you and baby sleep.
- Swaddles: My favorite are the Copper Pearl Swaddle Blankets, but if you are nervous about old fashioned swaddling, I also have this and love it.
- Glider: Yes we use ours. We have used it before every nap and before bedtime for both girls.
- Bassinet: Affordable because it will only be used for around 3 months.
- Crib Mattress
- Crib Sheets & Waterproof Crib Mattress Covers: Multiple in preparation for accidents when the baby gets a bit bigger.
- Changing Table: For Charlotte I used a traditional changing table, but with Genevieve I have a changing pad on top of her large dresser. I prefer it this way because it provides must more discrete storage space.
- Changing Pad: This is amazing for nursing moms and babes because it helps you keep track of feedings.
DIAPERING & BATHING
- Earth Mama Unscented Baby Lotion
- California Baby Sensitive Skin Wash
- All Over Ointment: Great for dry patches, rashes, and baby acne.
- THICK Hooded Baby Towels: I love this one and these ones!
- Baby Bath
- Bath Rinse Cup
- Diapers: Both size Newborn and 1.
- Water Wipes: a must for sensitive newborn skin.
- Wipes Dispenser: Easy access when you only have one hand.
- Wipe Warmer: This is nice for late night feedings.
- Diaper Pale
- Triple Paste Diaper Rash Cream: This is the best one!
LOUNGE & PLAY
- Snuggle Me Organic: Great for those new born cat naps and for bath time set-up. Get an extra cover for backup when one is in the wash.
- Baby Swing: Best swing in my opinion. Lays almost completely flat, vibrates, and grows with baby.
- Play Mat
- Baby Book
- Look, Look! Board Book: Black and white books are great for newborns.
TRAVEL & ON-THE-GO
- Carseat Blanket
- Travel Sound Machine
- Car Camera: Pricey but so worth it.
- Car Seat
- Car Seat Cover : This one doubles as a nursing cover.
- Stroller
- Car seat Adapters: These are necessary because the car seat and stroller listed above are different brands.
- Baby Wrap
- Diaper Bag
- Changing Pad Liners
- Wet Bag: For messes in public.
- Travel Crib/Play Yard: I am not a fan of the one we currently have, so I will be grabbing this one for our next baby. It has amazing reviews!
HEALTH
- Probiotic Drops: An ABSOLUTE essential. Helps babies with built up gas.
- Gripe Water GEL: Essential for gassy babies.
- Infant Tylenol: Nice to have on hand for fevers and for after shots.
- Rectal Thermometer
- Nasal Aspirator
- Oogiebear Booger Tool
- Nail Trimmer
- Nail Clippers
Thank you for stopping by! Happy Shopping!
If you are planning to nurse, you can find all of my nursing essentials HERE.