Newborn Baby Checklist: What You Need to Get Ready for the Big Day

After the excitement of your pregnancy settles, you may find yourself getting into a planning mode with a list of items you will need for your newborn.

During your research for newborn essentials, you may find that there are a lot of items that you never knew you needed, or in some instances, some you’ve never even heard of.

Below, we’re sharing a list of baby essentials to get your space ready for your exciting arrival!

Nursery Necessities

Designing your baby’s nursery is an exciting part of getting ready for their arrival. Here are some things you’ll need:

- Crib and Mattress: Make sure it meets current safety standards. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics(AAP), the mattress should be firm, flat, and fit tightly into the crib to help reduce the risk of SIDS. Avoid soft bedding, pillows, or toys in the crib.

- Cotton Bedding: Use soft, breathable, tightly fitted sheets.

- Changing Station: Get a dedicated changing table to make constant diaper changes easier and more organized.

- Rocking Chair: Late-night feeds and cuddles are much easier with a cozy chair that rocks or glides.

When You’re Out and About Essentials

An outing with a newborn is fun and exciting but also requires a few travel-friendly picks. Here are some go-to essentials when you’re away from home:

Car Seat: This is a non-negotiable and should be one of the first items on the list (your baby can’t leave the hospital without it). Here’s an overview on How to pick one.

Stroller:Get one that’s easy-to-fold and built for your daily needs. If you’re planning to walk a lot (especially on uneven sidewalks or bumpy park paths), look for a stroller with a good suspension.

Diaper Bag: You’ll need a bag that has a lot of pockets for diapers, onesies, bottles, snacks, and wipes.

Portable Changing Pad: You’ll probably end up changing diapers in the trunk, the park, and everywhere in between. A foldable, washable pad makes this easier for you and your baby.

Diapers and Wipes

Changing diapers might not be your favorite task, but it’s one you will be doing around the clock. Here are some essentials you’ll need:

Diapers: These will keep blowouts in check! Go for something made without harsh ingredients and free of fragrance like our range of Huggies® Diapers.

Wipes:Stock up on wipes for poop clean-ups, drools, and spills. Look for something gentle like Huggies® Wipes, which are dermatologist-tested and made without harsh ingredients.

Washcloths:Reusable washcloths are great for cleaning up diaper messes, wiping little faces or even standing in for burp cloths when needed.

Clothing Essentials

Comfort and practicality should be a priority. Here’s what you’ll need:

Swaddle Blanket: Swaddling helps newborns feel snug and secure, like they’re still in the womb, which can calm fussiness and improve sleep. Use a breathable 100% cotton blanket so your baby can still breathe if it slips over their face. Also, make sure there’s enough room for hips and legs to move freely.

Sleeping Sacks: Once your baby starts wriggling out of swaddles, sleeping sacks are a safe, cozy alternative.

Onesies: A staple in any baby wardrobe. They’re easy to change and layer, which is key especially if you live somewhere with unpredictable weather.

Stretchy Pants and Shirts: Stock up on a few soft, stretchy pieces that are easy to put on and take off.

Socks and Booties: Newborns lose heat quickly through their tiny feet. Keep a few pairs of socks or soft booties on hand to help them stay warm and cozy.

Feeding Essentials

The early days with your newborn might seem as if your baby is just sleeping, eating, and pooping. For feeding, they will start with breastmilk and/or formula and increase to some solids at around four to six months. These baby essentials will help to keep you covered during this time.

Burp Cloths: You'll go through a bunch of these catching spit-up, dribbles, and surprises you didn’t see coming.

Nursing Pillow: A nursing pillow saves you from hunching over during feedings as well as offers comfort to your baby for feedings.

Bibs: Even before solids, soft and absorbent bibs come in handy for drool and breastmilk or formula dribbles.

Bottle: Even if you plan to breastfeed, it’s a good idea to have a few bottles on hand. Find a nipple shape your baby likes and go with a slow-flow suction to start. You can always modify as you go.

Breast Pump: Feeding solo doesn’t have to mean doing it alone. A breast pump helps you share the load, build a stash, or just get a little relief when things feel, well... full.

Hygiene Essentials

Bath time can be a sweet bonding moment for you and your baby. It is also a great way to establish a soothing nighttime routine. Having the right hygiene basics helps keep your little one fresh, clean, and comfortable.

Baby Bathtub: A small, supportive tub keeps your newborn safe and snug as well as makes it easier to wash and clean them.

Soft washcloths

Baby Shampoo and Soap: Go for gentle, tear-free formulas made for sensitive skin. You won’t need much; just a small amount for those tiny toes and growing hairs.

Towels: Hooded towels are ideal for wrapping up your little one after a bath.

Nail Clippers: Baby nails grow at lightning speed. And yes, they scratch! A pair of baby-sized clippers or a gentle file can help you stay ahead of the talons.

Clean diaper: After bath time, a fresh diaper keeps your baby dry and comfy as they wind down for the night.

Developmental Toys/Supplies

While newborns don’t need much in the beginning, a few smart toys go a long way. Here are few newborn developmental toys you might need:

Bouncer: A bouncer offers a comfy spot where your baby can lounge, kick, and take in their new world. Some come with soothing vibrations; while others are equipped with dangling toys for engagement and entertainment.

Play Mat: Get a soft, colorful mat made for rolling, stretching, and adorable tummy time. With dangling toys, crinkly textures, and baby-safe mirrors, these mats can make floor time into a mini sensory playground.

Portable Toys: Tiny hands, big curiosity. These grab-and-go lightweight rattles, crinkly cloths, and soft plushies keep your little one entertained wherever you are.

Not sure which diaper to use? Take our quick Diaper Comparison tool to find the best Huggies® diaper for your baby’s needs—so you can wrap up bath time with comfort, protection, and peace of mind.

References

American Academy of Pediatrics. New safe sleep recommendations can help pediatricians guide families. Available at: https://publications.aap.org/aapnews/news/20619/New-safe-sleep-recommendations-can-help (Accessed: 8 May 2025). Mayo Clinic (2022) Healthy baby: Infant and toddler health. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/healthy-baby/art-20046200 (Accessed: 13 June 2025). Moon, R.Y., Task Force on Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (2022) Sleep-Related Infant Deaths: Updated 2022 Recommendations for Reducing Risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Pediatrics, 150(1), e2022057990. Available at: https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/150/1/e2022057990/188304/Sleep-Related-Infant-Deaths-Updated-2022 (Accessed: 13 June 2025). National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (n.d.) Car Seats and Booster Seats. Available at: https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle-safety/car-seats-and-booster-seats (Accessed: 8 May 2025).