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Your Ultimate Checklist of Baby Essentials

Streamline your shopping list with this checklist of all the baby must-haves.
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Updated May 30, 2023
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Among all the to-dos on your plate when prepping for baby’s arrival, shopping for baby essentials is likely high on your list—after all, you’re going to want all your gear the minute baby makes their big arrival. Between setting up the nursery and ensuring you have the necessary items for sleeping, eating and diapering, it’s easy to keep busy buying baby must-haves. Plus, the amount of baby supplies a newborn needs (or can have) might surprise any parent-to-be. Wondering how to figure out which are the baby items to skip and which are the essential baby items you can’t live without? Don’t stress! Keep reading for a complete list of things you need for a new baby.

Baby Wardrobe Essentials

It doesn’t get much cuter than tiny baby clothes, but you’ll want to pick out practical baby things that’ll keep your newborn comfy and cozy. When it comes to clothing, these are the baby must-haves:

Baby Nursery Essentials

A baby’s room calls for adorable decor for sure, but you’ll also need furniture and baby bedding that will make infant care all the easier (and safer). Here are the baby essentials for any nursery:

Baby Diapering Essentials

Changing a diaper may seem daunting at first, but trust us, you’ll get the hang of it—and these baby must-haves will help you pick it up even faster. Check out this list of baby necessities for diapering:

Baby Bath Essentials

Bathtime can be tons of fun—at least, once you get a handle on that slippery baby. It’s best to be prepared with all the right gear. These are the baby must-haves for the bath:

Baby Feeding Essentials

Be prepared to feed your newborn around the clock—which means, whether you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, you’re going to need a whole bunch of baby things for mealtime. Here are the important baby supplies to stock up:

Baby Health Essentials

Don’t forget: Babies need the occasional grooming too. And if your child happens to get sick, you’ll want to have the right baby essentials on hand. Here’s what to buy:

Baby Gear Essentials

Whether you’re on the move or relaxing at home, you’ll need to have some key baby gear at the ready. After all, at some point you’re going to need your arms back! Here are the baby must-haves to have on hand:

Plus more from The Bump, our Baby Essentials Checklist:

Image: Laura Pursel

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.

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