What You Really Need For Baby’s First Weeks

Wear

5 short-sleeved onesies or undershirts
3 long-sleeved onesies or undershirts
7 one piece sleepers – zip or snap
2 pairs soft cotton pants
6 pairs socks or booties
1 light cardigan or hoodie
1 snowsuit or bunting bag for a winter baby
3 pairs scratch mittens
Swaddle and Cuddle

2 thick cotton blankets
8 thin muslin receiving blankets
3 “swaddlers” with straps

Feeding

1 Boppy pillow, or similar
15 burp cloths (to also use as bibs)
2 Lansinoh cream/ointment (for breastfeeding)
1 breast pump (optional if not returning to work shortly after birth)
6 pairs of nursing pads
2 – 3 nursing bras
6 four-oz. bottles (if formula feeding…1 – 2 or buy as needed if exclusively breastfeeding)
6 eight-oz. bottles (if formula feeding…buy as needed if breastfeeding)
1 bottle and nipple brush
bottle drying rack
Formula (if planning to exclusively bottle feed – check the expiration date and don’t buy too early!)

Diapering

If cloth diapering:  4 dozen reusable diapers, 8 water proof covers, 6 snap closures OR about 3 dozen all-in-ones
If disposable:  1 box Newborn size, 1 box size one
diaper pail
changing pad
2 boxes disposable wipes OR 12 washcloths designated as diaper wipes
1 diaper rash cream, paste or spray

Bathing

1 plastic bath or sink bath insert (optional)
12 washcloths NOT used for diaper station
baby soap or wash
2 hooded towels (optional…you can always use the family towels)

Sleeping

1 approved crib, bassinet or Co-sleeper with appropriate mattress
3 waterproof pads
4 fitted crib sheets
2 sleep sacks
white noise machine (optional, but often useful)
(If bed-sharing follow the Safe Sleep 7 Guidelines, available at www.llli.org.)

Health and Hygiene

infant nail clippers
1 baby-specific or rental, near-natural free and clear laundry detergent
1 soft bristle infant hair brush
1 baby comb
1 infant thermometer
1 bulb syringe

Travel

approved stroller
car seat (have it installed BEFORE you leave the hospital)
pack and play (optional)
1 – 2 slings or soft baby carriers

Extras (all optional)

changing table
rocking chair
diaper bag
sun shade for car
2 – 4 pacifiers
rattle
toys
mobile
floor gym
Don’t Forget

Food plan for parents!
Support and help!