Welcome to parenthood! There are so many things to think about when you’re about to become a parent for the first time. Between the many questions you may have and the emotions you’re feeling, it can all become a little overwhelming — not to mention thinking about the practical things like a newborn essentials checklist, newborn clothing essentials and more.
One of the best things you can do to ease any anxieties you may be feeling during your pregnancy is to prepare. Whether you’re in the throes of nesting, creating a baby registry or just starting to plan for your new addition, now is the time to get the necessities for those first few hectic, magical months.
Use the following baby shopping list for first time moms to ensure you’re stocked up on baby essentials for the first three months of parenthood.
Feeding
The first in our baby needs checklist is ensuring you have the supplies you need to nourish your new baby. Regardless of whether you’re planning to breastfeed or bottle-feed, you’ll need quite a few items. This includes dozens of bibs, burp cloths and bottles so you don’t have to run to the dishwasher or washing machine between every feeding. A good rule of thumb is to purchase (or register for) a week’s worth of bibs and burp cloths. You’ll also want to pick up items that will make you feel more comfortable while feeding your new baby, such as a nursing pillow.
10 to 12 burp cloths
Breast pump
Milk storage containers
Nursing pillow
Nursing bras
Breast pads
Lanolin (for sore nipples)
Eight 4-ounce bottles with nipples
Six 8-ounce bottles with nipples
Bottle and nipple brush
Diapers
There’s no getting around it: diapers are about to become a major part of your life. You may decide to use reusable cloth diapers or stick with the disposable variety, but either way, you’ll need a full stock of other items to ensure your baby is clean, dry and happy. On average, your newborn will go through 10 to 12 diapers per day, so you’ll need to keep enough on hand to avoid constant trips to the store. Be sure to keep extra stock of all necessary supplies in your diaper bag as well as at home.
Several dozen cloth or reusable diapers
Five to six boxes of newborn or size 1 diapers
Eight waterproof covers
Diaper pail
Reusable or disposable wipes
Baby ointment or rash cream
Clothes
This is the fun part! We’re sure you’re already dreaming of the adorable outfits you’ll dress your little one in once they arrive. While it’s a good idea to buy a few special outfits for baby’s newborn pictures and for holidays or parties, you’ll likely rely on basic baby clothing essentials to get you through those first few months of diaper changes and spit-ups. Here’s a newborn clothes checklist to help get you going.
Eight to 10 bodysuits (mix of short-sleeve bodysuits and long-sleeve bodysuits)
Five sleeper gowns
Eight Sleep & Play
Five to seven pairs of pants or leggings
Two newborn hats
Eight to 10 pairs of socks
Bunting or snowsuit (in cold climates)
Laundry detergent for infant
Bedding
For the first few months, your baby will be doing a lot of sleeping, so you’ll need plenty of blankets for swaddling and cozy, safe sleepwear. Your climate will dictate what type of material you choose for blankets and PJs, but this list will help you get you started.
Crib and crib mattress
Two waterproof mattress covers
Four fitted crib sheets
Three swaddle blankets
Eight swaddles/receiving blankets (these have many uses as baby grows)
Bathing
You’ll likely bathe your newborn two to three times a week, so you’ll need to stock up on washcloths and towels to make it through the week without doing laundry every day.
12 washcloths
Baby soap or cleanser
Soft-bristled baby hairbrush
Three soft-hooded towels
One bath kneeler (we also love the Moby® All-in-One Elbow Saver & Kneeler from Skip Hop®)
Other Newborn Baby Essentials
As you ease into your parenting routine, you’ll likely discover that you use certain items daily — like a safety seat for your car — and other items rarely, if ever. Every baby and parent has different preferences and needs, but most families will want to have these additional items on hand before baby arrives.
Stroller
Nail clippers or baby scissors
Baby thermometer
Eye dropper or medicine spoon
Shade for car windows
Two to four pacifiers (if you choose)
Rattles and other baby toys
Expecting your first child is an exciting time, but it’s also a time to take stock of what the most essential things a newborn baby needs in the months to come and prepare for your little one’s arrival. By planning ahead with this first-time parent checklist, you’ll be able to ease into motherhood and fatherhood and focus on what’s most important: raising a happy and healthy baby.
At Carter’s, we’re honored to be with you from the start of your parenting journey, making your life easier through every milestone you experience while raising your kids. Whether we’re supporting you with the top-notch products you and your family need, giving you tips and tricks along the way or helping you get ready for baby, we’re proud to help!
