The arrival of your little bundle of joy is an exciting and life-changing experience. Your parenthood road ahead will surely be filled with twists and turns and to cope with the most unexpected situations, you need to be fully prepared with essential items that offer the right care and nourishment to your little one.
But what are the things that you really need? Do you need to add to the cart everything that is displayed on the “newborn baby essentials” aisle, or can you forego some of these items? Well, the truth is, while there are certain items considered absolutely critical for your newborn, others are considered “nice to have” and can also be done without.
In this newborn baby shopping checklist, we are breaking down the baby essentials all in one place, and ticking these items off the list can sufficiently prepare you for your munchkin like a pro.
Newborn Baby Shopping Checklist: Essential Items Your Baby Needs
Clothing Essentials
In your baby’s first year, you need to purchase clothing that suits the seasons. Also, ensure to purchase clothes that are suitable for infants aged 0-1, as your little one is going to grow pretty quickly during this stage. To make sure your munchkin is cosy, snug, and comfortable, shop for the following items.
- 6-8 infant t-shirts
- 4-6 short and long-sleeved onesies
- 4-6 pyjama sets
- 6-8 pairs of socks and soft booties
- 4-6 pairs of sweaters and hoodies
- 2 sun hats and knit caps
- 2-3 pairs of mittens
- A baby-safe natural laundry detergent
Nursery Essentials
You need the following list of items to create a safe, nurturing, and welcoming nursery for your little one.
- A baby crib
- Storage boxes for your baby’s clothes and other items
- Diaper station
- Mattress
- Rocking chair for nursing your baby and soothing them
- A humidifier
- White noise machine
- Baby monitor
Diapering Essentials
It’s impossible to prepare for your baby’s arrival without giving thoughtful consideration to their diaper care. Besides diapers, you must also shop for baby wipes and diaper rash cream, which offer relief to your baby’s skin from rashes (a cognition that is quite common in infants). Here’s a list of things you will need:
- Diapers
- A natural baby bottom wash
- Changing table pads
- A diaper pail
- Diaper rash cream
- Bamboo water wipes
- Diaper bag
Feeding Essentials
There are a lot of things to consider when it comes to your baby’s feeding essentials, and it’s a good idea to consult your paediatrician to determine an optimal nutrition plan. We have created a rundown of feeding essentials that you will need.
- Breast pump
- Seteriliser
- Nursing pillow
- 4-6 bottles with newborn nipples
- 6-8 burp clothes
- Nursing bras
- Nipple cream
- Bibs
- Milk storage bottle
Bathing And Wellness Essentials
Your baby’s skin care needs are much different than yours. Since your little one has delicate and sensitive skin, you should stick to products that are 100% chemical and toxin-free. Here’s a list of items you will need for your little one’s bath time.
- Moisturising baby wash
- Strengthening baby shampoo
- Bathing tub
- Washcloth
- Hooded towels
- Bath toys
- Baby face cream
- Soft and nourishing baby body lotion
Baby Essentials For On-the-go
Once you start exploring the world with your little one, you will need to carry a list of items while stepping out with them. These things that your baby is comfortable and relaxed during the trip, and also ensure their safety.
- Stroller
- Infant car seat
- Sun shades for car windows
- Baby sunscreen
- Travel bag
- First aid kit
- Portable kit
- Diaper bag
Play Essentials
Playtime plays an important role in your little one’s cognitive development, and hence you need to add a set of items to your list that make your little one’s play sessions colourful, fun, and full of sensory learning experiences. You will need:
- Rattles
- Bouncy seat
- Baby books
- Play maty with attached toys
- Squishy balls
- Teddy bears and soft toys
As you check off each item from this newborn baby shopping list, you will feel better prepared and confident to tackle any challenge that parenthood throws at you. Also, start purchasing these items beforehand, for instance, just when your third trimester starts, so that you are relaxed by the time of your baby’s arrival, and don’t have to worry about last-minute panic shopping. While you are shopping for your newborn, don’t forget to splurge on a few essentials for yourself as well, such as purchasing an ultra-comfy pair of shoes to offer comfort to your swollen feet, or some pregnancy-safe skincare essentials to keep your complexion glowing and radiant.
Also read:
Best gifts for baby girls: These baby girl gifts are equal parts adorable and functional! Check them out.
How to take care of a newborn baby: Learn the basics of newborn care in this post.
Gifts for baby boys: These baby boy gifts are perfect for welcoming the newest addition to your family.
Feature image: Pexels.com
