You’ve held back for what seems like forever, but it’s finally time to shop for the baby!  Where to start?  There’s nothing more overwhelming than walking down the baby aisle and wondering what you’ll really need, especially when it’s your first time.  Here’s a helpful little checklist to start from.  Somethings you’ll need right away while others can wait until after the baby arrives.  Don’t ever feel pressured to buy everything at once or you might end up with a closet full of unwrapped items.  Each baby is different and while some may take to things like swings and soothers, others may not.  Also, keep in mind that friends and relatives love to give baby clothes and toys – typically they’ll never be in short supply.

Nursery Furniture and Storage

  • Crib
  • Crib mattress
  • Bassinet or bedside sleeper
  • Dresser with changing table topper
  • Rocking chair or glider
  • Laundry hamper
  • Two to four storage baskets or totes

Nursery Linens and Bath

  • Three to four fitted sheets
  • Two waterproof mattress pads
  • Bumper
  • Crib skirt
  • Three to four receiving or swaddling blankets
  • Ten to twelve cloth diapers (for use as burping cloths)
  • Two to four hooded towels
  • Four to six washcloths
  • Baby bathtub

Nursery Decor

  • Lamp
  • Rug
  • Nightlight
  • Clock
  • Mobile
  • Wall decor
  • Window coverings

Baby Gear

  • Stroller
  • Car seat
  • Baby carrier or sling
  • Baby monitor
  • Swing or bouncer
  • Highchair
  • Diaper bag and changing pad
  • Diaper pail

Baby Wardrobe

  • Six to eight onesies or bodysuits
  • Four to six footed sleepers
  • Four to six one piece outfits or rompers
  • Four to six nightgowns or sleep sacks with elastic bottoms
  • Six to eight pairs of socks or booties
  • Two to three newborn cotton caps
  • Two piece outfits
  • Sweaters and snowsuits (if expecting in winter weather)
  • Wide brimmed hats (if expecting in summer for sun protection)

Baby Toiletries and First Aid

  • Hairbrush and comb
  • Baby soap or body wash
  • Tear-free shampoo
  • Baby oil
  • Diaper rash cream
  • Petroleum jelly (for lubricating rectal thermometers)
  • Diaper wipes
  • Diapers (newborn and size one)
  • Cotton balls
  • Baby nail clippers
  • Liquid aspirin
  • Antibiotic ointment
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Alcohol swabs (for cord care)
  • Medicine dropper
  • Bandages or gauze pads (for circumcision care)
  • Adhesive tape
  • Tweezers
  • Nasal aspirator
  • Thermometer

Baby Feeding Supplies

  • Four 4oz. bottles, six to ten 8oz. bottles (few if breastfeeding, more if using formula)
  • Bottle brush
  • Drying or dishwasher rack
  • Baby utensils
  • Baby dishes and sippy cups
  • Pacifiers
  • Boppy with two slipcovers
  • Breast pump