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ULTIMATE NEWBORN CHECKLIST

Must‑Have Gear from 0 – 6 Months. 

A comprehensive guide to the essentials every new parent needs, from cribs and carriers to clothing and feeding supplies.

Bringing a newborn home is one of life’s most joyful and overwhelming experiences. Whether you’re a first-time parent or preparing for your second bundle of joy, having the right essentials on hand can ease anxiety and set you up for smoother days (and nights!).

 

This Ultimate Newborn Checklist covers everything you’ll need from birth to 6 months, so you’re always ready for feedings, diaper changes, naps, cuddles, and more.

👶 Baby Clothing Essentials

Babies grow fast — and spit up often — so you’ll want soft, comfy, and easy-to-change clothing.

✔ Must-Have Clothing Items:

  • 5–7 Onesies (Short & Long Sleeve) – Ideal for layering and daily wear

  • 4–6 Footed Pajamas – Cozy for sleep and keeping toes warm

  • 3–5 Pants or Leggings – Pair with onesies or tees

  • 2–3 Sweaters or Jackets – For cooler weather or outings

  • 5–7 Pairs of Socks or Booties – Tiny feet get cold easily

  • 2–4 Hats – Newborn beanies for warmth, sun hats for outdoors

  • 1–2 Special Outfits – For photos, holidays, or milestones

Pro Tip: Choose soft, breathable cotton fabrics and go for envelope-style necks and snap closures for easy changes.


🛏️ Sleep & Nursery Essentials

Safe sleep is top priority in the first 6 months. A well-equipped sleep setup promotes better rest — for baby and you.

✔ Must-Haves for Sleep:

  • Crib, Bassinet, or Co-Sleeper – Meets current safety standards

  • Firm Crib Mattress + 2–3 Fitted Sheets – Avoid soft bedding

  • Swaddle Blankets or Sleep Sacks – Helps baby feel snug and safe

  • White Noise Machine or Soft Lullaby Player – Calms fussiness

  • Baby Monitor – For peace of mind while baby sleeps


🍽 Feeding Essentials (Breastfeeding or Bottle-Feeding)

Whether you choose to breastfeed or bottle-feed, having the right tools makes mealtimes more manageable.

✔ If Breastfeeding:

  • Nursing Bras & Pads

  • Nipple Cream (Lanolin or Organic)

  • Breast Pump (Manual or Electric)

  • Storage Bags or Bottles

  • Nursing Pillow – For comfort and positioning

✔ If Bottle-Feeding:

  • 6–8 Bottles (4 oz & 8 oz sizes)

  • Formula (if not breastfeeding)

  • Bottle Brush & Drying Rack

  • Bottle Warmer (Optional)


💩 Diapering Essentials

Expect to change diapers 8–12 times a day. Be prepared with these basics:

✔ Must-Have Diapering Gear:

  • Newborn Diapers (Disposable or Cloth)

  • Sensitive Baby Wipes

  • Diaper Cream or Ointment

  • Changing Pad or Table

  • Portable Changing Mat – Great for outings

  • Diaper Pail with Odor Control

Tip: Stock up on size 1 as babies often outgrow “newborn” sizes quickly.


🛁 Bath Time Essentials

Bathing a newborn is about keeping it simple and safe.

✔ Baby Bath Gear:

  • Infant Bathtub or Bath Support

  • 2–3 Hooded Towels

  • 4–6 Soft Washcloths

  • Gentle Baby Shampoo & Body Wash

  • Baby Lotion or Moisturizer

  • Soft Hair Brush or Comb


💕 Health & Grooming Kit

These little tools come in handy — especially during the 0–6 month period.

✔ Essentials to Have:

  • Digital Thermometer

  • Nail Clippers or Emery Boards

  • Bulb Syringe or Nose Frida

  • Baby Brush & Comb

  • Gripe Water or Gas Relief Drops

  • Saline Spray for Noses


🚗 Travel & On-the-Go Gear

You’ll need a safe and organized setup for trips to the pediatrician or grandma’s house.

✔ Travel Must-Haves:

  • Rear-Facing Car Seat (Newborn-approved)

  • Stroller or Travel System

  • Diaper Bag (Well-Organized)

  • Portable Changing Kit

  • Baby Carrier or Wrap

  • Extra Onesies, Diapers & Wipes On-the-Go


🧸 Soothing & Developmental Must-Haves

From teething to tummy time, these small items make a big difference.

✔ Bonus Essentials:

  • Pacifiers (0–6 month safe)

  • Teething Toys

  • Soft Rattles or Crinkle Toys

  • Play Gym or Activity Mat

  • Mirror Toys & High-Contrast Books


✅ Final Tips: What You Don’t Need Right Away

Some items can wait until after 6 months or later. Skip (for now):

  • Baby shoes (stick with socks)

  • High chair (you’ll need it after 6 months)

  • Walker or jumper (not recommended for newborns)


💡 Final Thoughts

Having a baby is a beautiful, life-changing journey — and the right essentials help you focus on bonding instead of scrambling for supplies. Keep this newborn checklist handy as you build your registry or prep your nursery.

🎁 Want to make shopping easier? Browse our handpicked newborn collection at BabyTad.com — adorable, essential, and always baby-safe.


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